We know times are hard for everyone at the moment and can’t express how much we appreciated the generous support of our communities and sponsors who made this such a success. A massive thank you to you all With your help
Thank You To Our Sponsors! WE RAISED $3642
All the money raised will be going directly to the Breast Cancer Research Trust to help with all of the amazing work they do for those battling breast cancer
On the cover: Dorothy Rambaud from Te Kauwata, Te Kauwhata Arts Weekend, a runaway success see page 6 .
Feelingsafe is of paramount importance to the community here in North Waikato. Whether we’re at home, at work, or enjoying activities across the wider Waikato, we want to feel we are not at risk from those who choose to take what isn’t theirs, or act without regard for others.
Te Kauwhata Arts Weekend, a runaway success
Chatter Community Newspaper is published fortnightly on a Wednesday and circulated throughout the North Waikato.
Readers contributions of articles and letters are welcome. Publication of contributions are entirely at the discretion of the Editor.
Contributions will only be considered for publication when accompanied by the author’s name and surname, telephone number and residential address.
All reasonable steps are taken to ensure accuracy. Opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the owner or publisher.
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The disturbing rise in crime was notable when Labour led the Government. My National colleagues and I promised to get tough on crime and we’ve been working hard to restore law and order. We are delivering on that promise, making New Zealand safer and prioritising victims instead of criminals in our justice system.
Our National led Government is targeting improving law and order. We’re reducing violent crimes, ram raids, and crimes committed by youth. So far, there have been 29,000 fewer victims of violent crime, 85% less ram raids, and a 13% reduction in youth offending. These numbers are staggering, to think that’s how bad things had become. By introducing legislation and initiatives that target reducing crime and antisocial behaviour, our strategies are delivering what Kiwi’s ultimately want; to feel safer.
We’ve given Police more and better tools to make a difference in our communities, such as increasing patrols by 40%, and giving Police more power to tackle criminals head on. Our zero-tolerance stance on gang patches, and other measures to crack down on gangs are making a marked difference on the levels of gang-related anti-social activities around the country.
Crime should never pay. Under our Government, criminals are learning there are tough consequences for their actions including more stringent sentencing. Justice should be firm; it must be a deterrent to those who choose to break the law. Repeat offenders of sexual assault and violent crimes are penalised for their choices by the reinstated Three Strikes law. We will not tolerate our communities being victimised by criminals. We are prioritising victims over offenders and speeding up District Court processes to deliver justice more quickly. The active caseload of these courts has decreased by 20% this parliamentary term, with an 8% increase in cases completed, and an overall 7% decrease in new cases. Law and order is critical to our society. It must be judicious and timely. Our Police must be empowered to combat crime. Our justice system must have to tools to penalise those who break the law. Whether we are the most vulnerable or the most powerful, we are all one community here in North Waikato. We love it here and want to feel safe. There is still more to be done, but we’re certainly getting back on track.
Should you wish to share your views on an issue, or reach out for my support, please feel welcome to contact my Waikato Electorate Parliamentary Service team on 0800 GET TIM (0800 438 846) or email Tim.vandeMolenMP@ parliament.govt.nz. – Tim van de Molen, MP for Waikato.
Tim van de Molen Your MP for Waikato
Tim.vandeMolenMP@parliament.govt.nz
0800 GET TIM (0800 438 846) TimvandeMolenWaikato
“Awesome”
“Unexpected” “The greatest day of my life” - these are some of the overwhelmingly positive reviews of Te Kauwhata’s inaugural Arts Weekend.
With funding from Creative Communities Waikato, the event was produced by Toi Ako Te Kauwhata from 10-12 October. The event was opened by the student leaders of Te Kauwhata Primary school who enjoyed a preview of the exhibition as well as opportunities so learn about fibre arts and glass fusing. They also constructed an installation for the lawn of St Margaret’s Church which was displayed over the weekend.
The Te Kauwhata Arts Weekend attracted over 400 people, at least half of whom actively participated in artmaking while on site. In addition to the central exhibition, the programme offered a wide range of demos and workshops; poetry, painting and pottery, felting, fondant and fire, rhythm, raranga and resin... there were 10 unique creative invitations each day engaging artists from 5yrs to 100.
The kaupapa of the event was to celebrate and showcase local talent, and give people the opportunity to unleash their own creativity. Toi Ako Manager, Lauren Hughes, says “when people think of Te Kauwhata, they might think of its rich cultural life, our precious wetlands and waterways, our viticultural history, our sporting prowess, our rural vistas and outdoors lifestyles, but few think of us as an arts hub. We want to change that.”
For 8 years, Toi Ako has been bringing people together through creativity. The artspace hosts 10 weekly creative clubs and classes and produces termly events and “Arts in the community.” Lauren says “This weekend was only possible because we have now built strong relationships in the community.
There are creative ecoystems emerging in many different disciplines. We know that there are talented people all over our districts. Some paint, sculpt, sing and claim the title of “artist.” Others create in unexpected ways. I’ve met people carving with chainsaws, building art installations with cars, nurturing splendid gardens, welding up marvels, cooking gastronomical wonders. To me, these are all artists. They all bring something new into the world through creative pursuits, through curiosity, skill, patience, persistence.
I hope that, in time, what we began this year will grow to include all these practitioners, and that TK Arts Weekend be a calendar highlight for locals and visitors alike. I saw how proud people were of their community this year and that is only going to grow.”
Authorised by Tim van de Molen, Parliament Buildings, Wgtn.
Waikato District Council
– Community Boards’ Inaugral Meetings
As the new triennium begins, 18 newly elected and 14 returning members will take their seats across the Waikato District’s six community boards. These inaugural meetings mark the start of their three-year term. Below are the dates of the first official meetings.
1. 1Raglan Community Board meets Wednesday, 29 October 2025
2. 2Huntly Community Board meets Tuesday, 4 November 2025
3. 3Rural–Port Waikato Community
Board meets Thursday, 6 November 2025
4. 4Ngāruawāhia Community Board meets Tuesday, 11 November 2025
5. 5Taupiri Community Board meets Monday, 17 November 2025
6. 6Tuakau Community Board meets Monday, 18 November 2025
Community boards play a vital role in linking residents with Council decisions – they raise local concerns, propose improvements and advocate for their towns and rural communities.
by Ganga Sudhan
An AED (automated external defibrillator) has been donated by the Te Kauwhata Emergency Services Trust Board to the Lions Club Hall in Mahi Road.
Situated in the entrance way to the hall, it is in a great spot if there is an emergency. If you do require an AED, please phone 111 to get the code so you can use the machine. AED’s save lives.
Picture shows Mark Wilson accepting the AED on behalf of the Lions Club.
The Spotlight: Valentine Venimore
The Spotlight is Creative Huntly’s new video series, highlighting the under-the-radar talent right here in Raahiu Pookeka. Visit facebook.com/ creativehuntly to check out the first video about Valentine, up now.
Meet the man who basically introduced the ukulele to mainstream New Zealand.
Is it even the most impressive thing Valentine Venimore has done? Who’s to say when he also paints intricate landscapes using pieces of cardboard in place of paintbrushes, has written a musical complete with 16 songs, and is currently writing a novel?
Valentine teaches music and art to children at Huntly Primary and has been a pillar of the community for many years. But he fell in love with art a long time before moving to Raahui Pookeka.
“It goes back generations. [My grandfather’s] father was more into carving; he was a woodcarver. He was the first of us to arrive in New Zealand from England [in around 1850],” Valentine tells us.
“He was also a pioneer photographer and you can still get his original postcards.”
For Valentine, art began with his grandfather. Valentine would sit and watch his grandfather spend days creating charcoal drawings.
“He was almost photographic [in his art]. He won quite a few awards. I would get my work finished quite quickly and he used to say to me, ‘you’re a lightning artist’. He would take days sometimes on one particular drawing”
Valentine is the first addition to Creative Huntly’s The Spotlight series, an exploration of the talent hidden in our little town.
It’s fitting that we kick off the series with him, as there are many great artists who would not exist without Valentine’s teachings.
“I taught in Australia for a number of years and one of my students there is now one of Australia’s top artists,” he says.
“There are people who I taught in their 50s and 60s who still keep in touch with me.”
He’s been involved with the art community in Huntly since he arrived here, and lived in Glenn Murray before that. Something he’s proudest of is his work introducing the ukulele to New Zealand society.
“I wrote a computer programme to teach kids to play the ukulele,” he adds to his list of achievements, casually.
“But when I wrote it you actually couldn’t buy a ukulele in New Zealand. So I started importing them and selling them on TradeMe
along with the programme.”
e first New Zealand Ukulele Festival and probably subsequently, “ukuleles are a lot more popular now.”
His original musical, The Wizard of the Prism, was staged by Morrinsville Intermediate School in 2017.
Creative Huntly’s Halloween Carnival
Something spooky is happening this month at Creative Huntly Raahui Pookeka Community Centres Trust.
Before heading out to haunt the streets in search of candy, Huntly residents are welcomed to Te Whare Toi o Hakanoa for
PUBLIC MEETING LAW & ORDER
some old fashioned carnival fun on the night of Halloween, October 31.
A night filled with games, treats, and spooky tunes, Creative Huntly’s Halloween Carnival is open to all ages and will have something for the whole family.
Get dressed up and come on down from 6pm. Food trucks will be running with
options for dinner and dessert.
Entry is koha and guests are encouraged to come in costume. Volunteers are still needed and can contact manager.creative@ huntly.co.nz.
Creative Huntly’s Halloween Carnival will run from 6pm on October 31.
The stage play follows a group of friends attempting to add colour back into the rainbow after it is removed by monochromatic, greyscale creatures from outer space.
“I had planned to rewrite it and simplify it. I’m sure I will do it one of these days.” We’re pretty sure you will too, Valentine.
Tim van de Molen, MP for Waikato and Hon Paul Goldsmith, Minister of Justice warmly invite you to come along and share views on restoring law and order in our communities.
Thursday 30 October, 10am
Huntly Memorial Hall
33 Wight Street, Huntly
Contact
Crowds Flock to Celebrate the Opening of Te Whare Taonga o Rahui Pookeka Huntly Museum
Huntly was buzzing with excitement on October 4th as more than 350 people gathered to celebrate the grand opening of the town’s new museum, Te Whare Taonga o Raahui Pookeka Huntly, housed in the beautifully revamped Station Building.
The day began with a moving blessing and the unveiling of a stunning waharoa, or carved entranceway, led by Waahi Whaanui CEO Hori Awa, former Mayor Jacqui Church, Museum Chair Denise Lamb, and Mahana Toka. The crowd then enjoyed a morning tea supported by the Waikato Mayoral District Fund, featuring delicious mini versions of
Festivities continued into the afternoon with the cutting of the red ribbon, officially opening the doors to the public. The Genesis Energy Sausage Cart proved a hit, serving up 300 free sausages, while the atmosphere was kept lively with balloon twisters, face painters, stilt walkers, and even a human statue delighting the crowds. Entertainment was assisted through the Huntly Community Board fund.
Inside, visitors explored the museum’s new interactive displays, while the first-ever Community Gallery exhibitionshowcased artwork created by local schoolchildren — a
proud moment for many young artists.
Te Whare Taonga o Rāhui Pookeka Huntly is now open Wednesday to Saturday, 10am–4pm, with a small entry fee. On the first Friday of each month, entry is free, and schools are encouraged to book visits by calling 828 0154. The museum continues to run with a mix of paid and volunteer assistance if you would like to help with looking after the front desk on a Saturday –email admin@coal.net.nz
The successful launch marks an exciting collaboration for Huntly with national and local funders and supporters working together — a celebration of art, history, and community spirit in the
Main St Café’s gold award-winning Rhubarb and Raspberry pie.
heart of the Waikato.
Te Kauwhata Arts Weekend, a runaway success
Visitors voted for their favourite artworks in the Harcourts People’s Choice Awards. Nominations were cast for 45 different works confirming that we all delight in different things.
Congratulations to joint winners;
- Birds of a Feather, a wearable arts piece by 14 year old Savannah Lester
- Untitled, a set of miniatures by Shania Boldero
Just one vote behind were equally placed runners up with stunning work;
- Walmajarri Country, a painting by Rachel Campbell
- Quench the Earth, a resin work by Judy Garrick
The Toi Ako team are already starting to plan for the next Te Kauwhata Arts Weekend in 2027. They invite interested parties to get in touch - artstekauwhata@gmail.com.
Lauren, who is also a clinical creative arts therapist noted, “That in a world of increasingly divided politics and complex social, environmental and technological landscapes, it is easy to get sucked into negative spaces and thought patterns. The arts and nature are the antidotes we all need. I watched people light up as they engaged over the arts weekend. Many commented on the vibe in the space, what it felt like to be surrounded by beauty, the wairua in the room. We are immensely proud of what we achieved as a community this weekend. We are grateful to the artists who shared their work, time and talents. We are proud of the community who showed up in droves to honour and appreciate that work, and to be bold and brave in their own expression. We thank St Margaret’s Church for their hospitality and all the volunteers who lent a hand. It is a great privilege to do this work in our community. We left with our hearts and cups full.”
SKATEfest 2025 Rolls In for Day of Community Fun
Skateboards, scooters, music, and community spirit will take centre stage once again as SKATEfest 2025 rolls into town this summer — bringing with it a full day of fun, creativity, and connection for the whole whaanau.
Now in its third year, SKATEfest has grown into one of the most anticipated community events on the local calendar. What began as a grassroots celebration of skate culture has evolved and brings together skaters, families, artists, and music lovers from across the region.
This year’s event promises plenty to see and do, with live music, food trucks, art
activities, and skate demos for all ages and skill levels. Whether you’re there to compete, cheer from the sidelines, or simply enjoy the atmosphere, SKATEfest is all about bringing people together through movement and creativity.
Event organiser Kris Bryant says SKATEfest continues to grow thanks to the incredible community support.
“It’s more than just a skate event,” they said. “It’s about giving young people a space to shine, families a chance to connect, and everyone an opportunity to experience the energy of our creative community.”
Highlights of the day will include
having TripperLabs on board with their mini skateparks and public interaction, Best Trick competitions and demos from the Waikato based Happy Skate team, live music, the buzzing artstation from Toi Ako Artspace, food and coffee trucks.
Date: Saturday 1st November
Location: Te Kauwhata Skatepark, Village Green, Te Kauwhata
Time: 12-4pm
Last year’s SKATEfest drew hundreds of locals to the Te Kauwhata Skatepark with an afternoon of spectacular skating, creativity, and community connection. Newspaper coverage at the time praised the event for its
“positive, family-friendly atmosphere” and its “celebration of youth and local talent.”
This year, organisers are encouraging everyone to come along — whether you’re a skater or simply keen for a great day out.
“Bring your friends, your whaanau, and your good vibes,” says Kris of New Zealous Music.
“Let’s celebrate what makes our community so unique and full of life.”
For updates and announcements, follow SKATEfest 2025 event on Facebook and New Zealous Music on Instagram
email: wearenzm@gmail.com
Q & A with Filmmaker Josh Hamblin
Independent filmmaker, Josh Hamblin, recently completed a feature film titled The Red Admiral, with around 20 percent of the movie shot in the Waikato District –including locations in Te Kauwhata and Horotiu – in early 2024. The film will screen later this month at the Misty Flicks Film Festival.
When did you get interested in film making ?
I’ve been fascinated by movies from a young age, but didn’t really think about filmmaking till I was a teenager. Like many of my peers, Peter Jackson’s Lord of the
Rings was a major influence on my interest in the art form.
What is your background with learning the skill?
I attended the now defunct NZ Film Academy in Auckland back in 2016. They ran a short film and television production course, at the time, that was complete within a semester. The course was mostly practical which suited me.
Tell us about how The Red Admiral and how the journey began?
The Red Admiral started as a series of sketches and gags that I had written, dating back to 2019. I worked backwards and formed a simple story with a structure that I could jam all of my jokes into. Shooting
WATTLE Contracting Limited
didn’t start until early 2024. Editing wasn’t completed till May of this year. Turns out making feature films takes a really long time.
Where was it shot and what did the process involved ?
We shot the majority of the film on private property in Hunua. Some scenes were shot in Franklin, where I grew up. And about 20% was shot in the Waikato; Te Kauwhata and Horotiu.
What were some challenges that were faced ?
The crew was lean, the budget very low, and time limited - but we seemed to make it work.
I could list 1000 challenges we had and lessons learned. The big one was the weather.
We shot in February, which is typically dry, but still lost a day and a half to rain - which I didn’t plan for. And, as it happens, managing light outside is tricky. Overcast conditions are perfect for good exposure. Too bright and we have to introduce a large screen to diffuse light, use natural shadows, make in camera adjustments, or just simply wait for a cloud to come etc.just to name some of the ways we dealt with this. Too dark and we have to lug big lights into the bush and an inverter to power them.
How do you feel now about the outcome and what you have created ?
I feel a sense of relief now that it’s complete, I’ve scratched an itch that has bothered me for the longest time. To have not taken the leap, I’d have spent my whole life wondering. I’m proud of the people who worked on the project to help me realise this vision, in spite of the many obstacles we encountered. Right now I really want to take the lessons learned and get working on number two - but there is still so much more to do for this film to ensure it’s seen by as many people as possible.
What audience do you think will enjoy and appreciate the film ?
Young adults are the target audience; but I was at a screening recently and the people laughing the hardest were a group of elderly women. So, I’m still learning who my demographic is in some ways.
When will people be able to view the film?
The next opportunity to view the film is at the Misty Flicks Film Festival, The Regent, Te Awamutu, 2nd of November, 4:30pm.
kura
tangata
Fifteen years for Raglan Arts Weekend, one of the Waikato’s best visual arts events
T
he Raglan Arts Weekend (RAW) kicked off with a bang this month with over 100 guests at the exclusive Preview Exhibition opening, held for RAW artists, friends and family, at the Raglan Arts Centre. 23 works of art have already been sold, supporting local art talent and going towards the funding of the event, a not-for-profit.
It underscores the point that you won’t want to be anywhere other than Raglan this Labour Weekend. RAW, as it’s affectionately called by locals, is one of the Waikato’s best visual arts events. It will be celebrating its 15th anniversary and is set to entertain, inspire and blow visitors away with an action-packed programme over a 5-day festival.
The self-guided art trail on the long weekend is at the centre of RAW. There are 43 studios this year showcasing over 65 artists, including painters, sculptors, photographers, illustrators, jewelry designers, textile artists, bespoke hat makers, blacksmiths, weavers, furniture designers, stencil artists, mosaic artists and more. The high standard of RAW artists coupled with the opportunity to explore the beautiful Whaingoroa coastline and town has always been a strong magnet for visitors and locals alike, many of whom attend annually.
The event has changed significantly over its fifteen years and is now more festive than ever, including a recent partnership with the Country And Blues Music Festival, a number of art installations around town, workshops, demos and even the creation of a new public artwork over the course of the weekend.
“It’s always such a treat to experience the different art studios on the trail,” says Nicky Brzeska who has been running the event since 2019. “You can walk through sculpture trails, wander through a Redwood forest adorned with silk installations, enjoy a garden soiree with sculptures, see a wood bending demo, become the art with your own caricature, participate in a public ‘community canvas’, or simply enjoy the stillness of various home, studio and gallery settings,” she says.
RAW kicks off on Thursday 23rd with an Opening Night at Iso Bistro Cocktail Lounge, a chance to meet RAW artists and celebrate 15 years of the annual event. It’s a fun, casual event, designed in partnership with Bayleys Real Estate and part of a program called ‘Artist Connect’. Just before the cocktail and dinner event, RAW artists will be heading out on an ‘artist only’ studio bus tour, designed to get artists to meet each other and be inspired by other studios they visit.
Friday evening in town sees a number of art related events take place, including three artist exhibition openings as well as the official opening of The Hatch, RAW’s emerging artist incubator and group exhibition. This is the third year The Hatch is running, made possible every year by Rangitahi and a grant from the Waikato District Creative Communities. The Hatch helps new artists meet others and access support they might need from framing and pricing, to marketing, social media or working with galleries.
“Don’t miss this showcase of 14 upcoming rising stars in the Whaingaroa art scene,” says Nicky. “Local artist Zasha Skye, who is running it for us this year, has done a brilliant job of reimagining the Town Hall space and
the artists who we have represented this year really are pushing the boundaries, such exciting stuff!”
This year, RAW also has a very enticing competition in partnership with local short term holiday rental company, Groundswell Properties and Bayleys Real Estate. Scan the QR code at every artist studio and be in to win an enticing Raglan getaway at a Groundswell property of your choice, worth $1000.
If you’d like to plan ahead and see what’s in store, head over to the Raglan Arts Centre to see the Preview Exhibition, which showcases 86 artworks from the 43 participating studios. As work is sold, it
will be continuously updated. You can also visit www.raglanartsweekend.nz for more information and a map, or grab a Raglan Arts Guide from the iHub, shops and restaurants or from the Raglan Arts Centre.
• RAW Open Studios: Sat 25th Oct to Mon 27th Oct, 10am to 5pm, free.
• RAW Preview Exhibition: Fri 3rd Oct to Mon 27th Oct, Raglan Arts Centre, 10am to 2pm (open to 5pm over RAW), free.
• Opening Cocktail Night and Dinner: Thurs 23rd Oct, 6.30pm, Iso Bistro, Ticketed. $55
• Opening of The Hatch: Fri 24th Oct, 6.30pm, Town Hall, free.
• RAW is a Raglan Arts Centre event brought to you by the Raglan Community Arts Council, a not-forprofit organisation.
The History of League with Rex Hohaia
# 25: EX-KIWIS CAN FLY
To represent one’s country in their chosen sport is the dream of many young aspiring athletes.
Whether it be the All Blacks, the Olympics, the Black Caps, the Golden Shears, the All Whites, the Black Sox, the Wheel Blacks, the World Chess Series or the Supreme Tiddlywinks World Championship, wearing that silver fern proudly is the pinnacle of sporting achievement.
Growing up on a dairy farm near Te Ōhākī Marae in Huntly and attending the local Rākaumanga School in the 1950s and 60s, I was surrounded by men who had been to war (and I mean a real war, not a State of Origin game – ouch!).
The aspiration to play for a New Zealand team was top of the agenda for a nation built on rugged, pioneering, labour-intensive, hard-nosed, sweaton-the-brow alpha males who needed to release testosterone at various stages of the week through more physical exertion at the highest level. But sadly, when I was in my prime (cough! cough!), the selectors were from the Blind Institute.
Rugby union was established in New Zealand in 1892 but was first played in Nelson in May 1870. It was the number one winter code of New Zealand’s short sporting existence and when rugby league arrived in Aotearoa in 1908, it threw the cat among the pigeons and was blacklisted by many of those in authority. Strong animosity existed in the early 1900s toward this game that paid its players, and any number of obstacles were placed before those who wished to partake. “Banned for life from returning” was the catch-cry of rugby administrators for anyone who decided to cross over.
Born out of the coal-mining towns and industrial areas of the Yorkshire and Lancashire counties in northern England, rugby league had its origins after a breakaway group of 22 rugby union clubs met at the George Hotel in Huddersfield and decided to pay players for lost time off work through injury or tours, and change a few of the game’s rules. Given the title Northern Union Rules, it began establishing a foothold in Auckland in 1908, then quickly spread to other areas including the lower Waikato District (then called South Auckland). By 1911, teams from Huntly, Ngāruawāhia, Taupiri and Rangiriri had formed.
The first representative national team for this game, later referred to as “state house rugby” (you either owned your home – the upper class, read rugby – or you lived in a government-provided state house or shanty – the rest), was named the All Golds. The name, coined by “the other mob”, mocked the fact that players were paid. The first player ever selected was Kiwi No. 1 Albert Baskerville, the recognised father of New Zealand rugby league. Sadly, he died of pneumonia in Brisbane Hospital aged 25 while returning from New Zealand’s first overseas tour to Australia and Great Britain in 1908.
The first local lad to make the big time was Ngāruawāhia RFLC wingman Reginald Ernest Sprague, Kiwi No. 64, selected to tour Australia in 1911. He was also the club’s first president. I can recall my grandfather, Wetere Paki, speaking of his Huntly RL teammates of the 1920s and 30s. Names like Peckham (Kiwi 198), Timms (Kiwi 195), Trautvetter (Kiwi 215) along with his brother Hori Paki (Kiwi 151), who was selected to tour Australia in 1921 while playing in Auckland. Another prominent whānau name of that era was Leonard Tasman Mason (Kiwi 186), who played for the Rangiriri team as a teenager but was selected to tour Great Britain and France in 1926 from the Canterbury province while working in Christchurch and playing for the Hornby RLC.
Len Mason (born 23 September 1903) is another story on its own. Staying on in England after the tour, he notched up 362 games for the famous cherry-andwhite Wigan RFLC and totalled over 500 games by the time he returned to Huntly as player, captain and selector. He was still playing professional footy in the UK at 39 years old and retired from active service in 1946. He died in Hamilton in 1953 and is buried at Rangiriri Cemetery.
Many other players from the heartland of the
Waikato wore the silver fern with pride. The oldest established club, the Ngāruawāhia Panthers RFLC (est. 1911), has the most recognised Kiwis with fifteen. Acknowledged in the club’s centenary book, the aforementioned Reg Sprague (1911) through to Shaun Kenny-Dowall (2007–16, NZ Junior Kiwi 2006) were partnered with Wilson Hall (1925–27), Louie Brown (1925–36), Joe Menzies (1926–27), Lou Hutt (1928–35), Edwin Abbott (1930–32), George Tittleton (1930–35), Jim Laird (1932–35), Walter Tittleton (1936–37), Adrian McKenzie (1947–52), William George Deacon (1965–71), Wayne White (1967) and William (Billy) Kells (1980).
Of special note was the career of the club’s tenth Kiwi, Travers Harry Hardwick (1946–52).
Born 13 March 1923, he originally played rugby in the Wairarapa before moving north to play for the Ponsonby Rugby League Club. First representing Auckland in 1945, he was selected for the Kiwis in 1946 and went on to play fourteen Tests for his country between 1946 and 1952. In 1950 he moved south to Ngāruawāhia and joined the Panthers Club. In 1956 he coached the NZ Māori Rugby League team that toured Australia, with Taniwharau players Andrew Berryman and Bill Paki in the team, and Wilf Davies – the mastermind behind the creation of Davies Park, Huntly – was team finance manager.
Hardwick also coached the Kiwis for two years (1959–60), including the 1960 World Cup in England, won by the host nation. He stayed involved at the highest level for a number of years, serving as NZ Kiwi selector from 1971–75. Travers Harry Hardwick died on 25 April 1979 and was inducted into the New Zealand Rugby League’s Legends of League in 2000.
The Huntly South RFLC (est. 1934) followed on from the Huntly teams of the 1910s–30s, with their headquarters at Davies Park in the old “smoke box” situated just south of the original 500-seat wooden grandstand. Prominent throughout the glory days of the 1950s–70s was not so much the six (plus one) Kiwi players who wore the black and yellow, but the contribution of favourite son, player, WRL coach, administrator, selector, Rākaumanga Native School teacher, shoe shop businessman, NZ Rugby League Annual editor, Huntly South Annual editor, annual prize-giving organiser, WRL president and secretary, Mr William Leslie (Bill) O’Callaghan (11 Feb 1926 –21 Jul 1989). He was also NZRL director and selector, and 1971 Kiwi team co-manager to Great Britain and France – quite a few caps to wear, one might say.
Players selected for Kiwi honours through the 1960s and 70s all shared the distinction of playing for the Kiwis on Saturday and turning out for their grassroots club the next week (sometimes the next day). Reg Cooke (1960–64), Graeme Farrar (1961–64), Edward Baker (1966–67), Kevin Fisher (1977–82), Paul Ravlich (1979, NZ Schoolboy Kiwi 1964) and Vaun O’Callaghan (1985, NZ Junior Kiwi 1985),
with the +1 being Brian Lee (1961–68), the hired hand who was invited from the Papakura Sea Eagles in Auckland to play with Huntly South in the early 1980s. Part of his contract was employment with the NZ Electricity Department at the newly constructed Huntly Power Station.
To be continued...
Researched by Rex Hohaia, 24 August 2025.
Records show that other Kiwis pre-1950 were George Beadle (1939), James Jones (1930), Robert Stephenson (1930–32), Albert “Shirt” Hambleton (1948) and Reinhart Trautvetter (1930), all possibly registered with the original Huntly club (now defunct).
Huntly Bowling Club opens 2025–26 season with strong field
The Huntly Bowling Club held its first tournament of the 2025–26 season on Thursday 9 October. The green played fast and true.
We welcomed nine visiting teams — two each from Taupiri, Raglan and Morrinsville, plus Morrinsville RSA, Cambridge and Cambridge Central — alongside six Huntly teams. The day was fine but overcast, with light drizzle after lunch.
The overall winners were Morrinsville, skipped by Len Borrig with Gaye Johns and Rosalie Arnold.
Second was a Huntly trio skipped by Jenny Welch with Roy Crawford and Ron Rehm.
Third went to Cambridge, skipped by Laurie Roycroft with Rod Beecroft and Rance Wilson.
The first Huntly team home was skipped by Bernie Strawwbridge with Tama Putu and Phil Giles.
The tournament was sponsored by the Straker family.
The next tournament will be held on Thursday 6 November.
To enter, contact Gary Robinson on 027 281 8990.
Get Moving in Huntly!
Join Our Strong & Steady Classes and Weekly Walking Group
Friendship House and Te Whare Awhi invite Huntly locals — especially our kaumatua and seniors — to join two great ways to stay active, healthy, and connected: the Strong & Steady programme and our Thursday Walking Group.
Strong & Steady – Senior Balance Class
Strong & Steady is a gentle, low-impact exercise class designed especially for seniors with limited mobility or those using walking aids. Each 45-minute session focuses on building strength and balance through seated exercises, then gradually progressing to standing activities (using chairs for support if needed), and finishing with a relaxing cooldown and stretch.
Participants often report feeling stronger, more confident, and better able to manage daily activities. It’s a great way to improve mobility, prevent falls, and connect with others in a friendly and supportive space.
When & Where:
Mondays 1.30pm – Friendship House, 55 William Street, Huntly
Wednesdays 1.30pm – Te Whare Awhi, 14 Fraser Street, Huntly
Cost: Only $2 per session
What to bring: Comfortable clothing, supportive shoes, and a water bottle – all other equipment is provided.
Thursday Walking Group
Every Thursday at 10am, our Walking Group meets at Te Whare Awhi (14 Fraser Street) for a gentle hīkoi around the community. Walking is one of the simplest and most effective ways to boost your mood, stay active, and enjoy the company of others.
Whether you’re looking to build fitness, improve balance, or simply enjoy some fresh air and good company, everyone is welcome. Just wear comfortable shoes and come ready to move!
To join or learn more:
07 828 7559or friendship@huntly.co.nz
Let’s keep Raahui Pookeka moving — together, strong and steady!
Life Uncomplicated:
Reflections on work, life, and the little things that make a difference
This column is a space to make sense of everyday thoughts, decisions, and challenges in a way that’s easy to carry. It doesn’t claim to have all the answers – but it does believe that some ideas are worth holding gently, together.
Still Worth Showing Up
M any would have seen my name on the ballot paper in the local election that concluded earlier this month. I didn’t win, but that wasn’t the full story. If anything, the experience gave me more than I expected. And in some ways, perhaps even more than a win might have.
I entered the race quietly – not out of hesitation but by choice. I didn’t put up posters. I wanted people to vote because they knew me, not because they saw my name in bold letters on a fence. That decision made what followed even more meaningful. People from various parts of my community work – learners, neighbours, community leaders – reached out, saying they were proud to vote for me. Not because I asked but because they had felt seen, supported or encouraged by me at some point.
And then there were others who came across my name on the ballot and asked when they met me in person, “Is that you?” It was humbling to realise how far one’s quiet work can travel. Without a billboard or slogan, the connections still carried. That in itself was heartwarming.
What struck me most wasn’t the campaign trail, but the human moments it invited. A chat in a car park. A nod across the supermarket aisle. A conversation that began with local issues but ended in laughter. There were no grand debates or flashy moments – just people, showing up for each other.
A Thought to Carry With Us?
We often measure effort by results – Votes; Ticks; Titles. But life is full of spaces where the scoreboard doesn’t tell the full story. Sometimes, courage is just the decision to step forward. To say “count me in” even if the odds don’t seem stacked in your favour.
And perhaps that’s where this reflection lands. Not in the politics, but in the personal. In reminding ourselves that it’s okay to try – even when trying might not lead to the outcome we hoped for. That it’s okay to stand for something even if it means standing without a crowd behind you.
STRENGTH & BALANCE CLASSES
Get moving, Gain confidence & Have fun! New people welcome
Monday 1.30-2.30pm
St Paul s Hall, 55 William Street, Huntly & Wednesday 1.30-2.30pm
Te Whare Awhi, 14 Fraser Street, Huntly $2, Huntly Friendship Group 07 8287559
Mostly seated, slow pace Ideal for those not currently active or use a walking aid
Thursday 10 30-11 15am
St John's Hall, George St, Huntly $3 Lynda 027 338 0778
So, to anyone hesitating at the edge of something – be it a job application, a tricky conversation, or a personal challenge, I say, it’s still worth showing up. Not because success is guaranteed but because the act of stepping forward is sometimes the win.
At the end of the day, connection, impact, and growth don’t always need a title to be valid. Sometimes, they just need you.
Seated & standing exercise, chairs always available for support, lots of variety & fun
Ganga Sudhan enjoys finding small insights in everyday moments and sharing them as reflections on work, life, and the in-betweens. You can reach him at ganga@rte.co.nz or find him on LinkedIn via the QR Code below to follow his latest musings.
ST JOHN’S ROAD SHOW EVENT AT APĀRANGI
Wednesday 29th October 2025
0am – 12pm | Simmons Hall
Please RSVP by 24th October to sc.tkretire@aparangi.co.nz for catering purposes.
St John’s is bringing a fantastic event to Apārangi!
The morning will begin with a welcome message at 10am, followed by the chance to explore and gather information on:
• Medical alarms
• Ambulance membership scheme
• Donations & bequests
• 3 Steps for Life (CPR & defibrillators)
• Area Committee team
• ICE booklets
• Be in the draw for a First Aid Kit for attending
• When signing up for a yearly membership, go in the draw to have it paid for We’d love to see you drop in and take part in this informative and engaging event.
AGM
Ohinewai Area Committee AGM
followed by General Meeting
Wednesday 12 November 2025, 7.30pm
Huntly South Rugby League A.G.M
10th November 6pm at Club rooms
Davies Park
HUNTLY COLLEGE OLD BOYS RUGBY CLUB TRUST
Applications for funding from HCOBRFC Trust are available.
Please send your application request to brony1962@gmail.com
The closing date for receiving the application is 14th November 2025. Please include a email address for forms to be sent.
CHURCHES
All reasonable steps are taken to ensure accuracy. Opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the owner or publisher. For non-delivery please make contact with us it is very important that we are made aware of this so steps can be made to ensure delivery.
Contact Jacqui and Dave Phone: 021 428 808 Email: info@chatternews.co.nz www.chatternewspaper.co.nz Donations Summary
At the Ohinewai Hall Mass Saturday Vigil 5:00pm
The Te Kauwhata Water Association is a registered charity deriving its income from the sale of non-potable water. In accordance with Clause 12 of its Rules, the Association invited eligible parties to submit requests for donations
At Committee meetings held on 17 August 2023 and 18 March 2024 all 19 applications for donations were reviewed, and the following were approved:
• Te Kauwhata Community Response Group - $6,789.04
• Water Supply to Local Marae (2) - $1,600.00
Total Donations Approved and Paid: $34,001.42
A total of 6 applications were declined amounting to $28,288.45
Summary of 2024 Donations:
Total Value of Applications Received: $75,850.83
Total Approved: $39,212.38
To date, the Association has contributed more than $257,000 to the Te Kauwhata
Huntly Fire Station call outs
02/10 06:43 Motor vehicle crash car v power pole, Gordonton Rd, Taupiri. 03/10 16:50 Motor vehicle crash car v barrier, Waikato expressway, Huntly. 03/10 17:55 Scrub/ Rubbish fire, Rotowaro Rd, Huntly.
03/10 19:37 Fire alarm activation, Henry Rd, Taupiri.
04/10 03:12 Medical call, Unconscious patient, Ohinewai/ Tahuna Rd, Waiterimu.
04/10 05:08 E.V.Car fire well involved, Waikato expressway, Taupiri.
04/10 08:58 Fire alarm activation, Bridge St, Huntly.
06/10 06:52 Motor vehicle crash, Truck rolled, Riverview Rd, Huntly.
06/10 13:29 House fire well involved, McCutchan Rd, Glen Murray.
11/10 08:24 Medical call, cardiac arrest, Tahuna Rd, Waiterimu.
