A huge turnout marked the highly successful launch of Fauono Ken Laban’s campaign for the Lower Hutt Mayoralty at the Wainuiomata Marae on 3 August.
Around 350 people crammed the Marae’s Whare Kai for the launch, including three local Mayors and three Members of Parliament.
Continued on page 2.
Fauono Ken Laban addressing the big crowd at the launch of his campaign for the Hutt Mayoralty.
Frank Neill.
Photo:
How to reach us
Phone (04) 587 1660
ONLINE: www.issuu.com/wsn11
WELLINGTON SUBURBAN NEWSPAPERS
REPORTER
Frank Neill
wainui@wsn.co.nz 027 490 3916
Pasifika legend standing for Mayor
Continued from page 1
Lower Hutt Mayor Campbell Barry, Wellington Mayor Tory Whanau and Porirua Mayor Anita Baker were at the launch.
So, too, were Labour list MP Ginny Andersen, the local Ikaroa-Rāwhiti MP Cushla Tangaere-Manuel and Mana’s MP Barbara Edmonds.
Following an introduction from the launch’s MC Tofiga Fepulea’i, the first speaker was Ken’s older sister, Luamanuvao Dame Winnie Laban – the former Mana MP and the Assistant Vice-Chancellor (Pasifika) at Te Herenga Waka –Victoria University of Wellington.
Ken is “a Pacific legend in Aotearoa,”
Dame Winnie said.
“I’m proud of my little brother Ken.
SALES
Brenda Ingram-Johnson brenda@wsn.co.nz 021 640 152
SALES
Steve Maggs
steve@wsn.co.nz 027 765 8303
CLASSIFIED SALES classifieds@wsn.co.nz
your local newspaper
“He has served Wainuiomata, Hutt City and Aotearoa New Zealand with honour and integrity,” she said.
“Ken is a captain, a coach, a team player and a communicator who brings people together.”
He does his homework, creates opportunities and builds up others.
“He comes up with practical solutions to difficult problems,” Dame Winnie said.
She also noted that because of Ken’s outstanding leadership his mother’s tribe in Samoa had bestowed on him the chiefly title Fauono.
Current Hutt City Councillor Josh Briggs was another who spoke at the launch.
“Our city needs a Mayor with both heart and capability,” he said.
Hutt City needs “someone who can connect with our communities and deliver in the chamber.
“Ken brings both, plus the experience and courage to make hard calls when it matters.
“I’ve seen the difference Ken makes.
“Now is the time for him to lead our city.
“Leadership isn’t just about having a seat at the table, it’s about knowing what to do with it.
“Ken knows, and that’s why I’m proud to support him,” Cr Briggs said.
“Ken is a servant leader.
His leadership is “grounded in service, not ego.
to build unity, not division,” Cr Briggs said.
“Ken doesn’t just talk the talk, he walks the walk,” the Wainuiomata Community Board Chair Te Awa Puketapu said.
“He is a tireless champion for our people.
“Let’s ensure that Ken’s focus on unity in our community can continue,” Te Awa said.
“I am deeply humbled that a crowd like this would turn up,” Ken said at the launch.
“He listens first, speaks with intention and leads by example.
“He’s not in it for the spotlight, he’s in it for people.
“He understands the fabric of our city.
“From sport fields to health centres, from marae to the boardroom, Ken moves across communities with integrity.
“He’s trusted because he’s consistent, empathetic and fair,” Cr Briggs said.
Ken is “a strong chair and a collaborative team member.
“He knows how to lead a room, facilitate consensus and keep things moving with clarity and respect.
“He values diverse perspectives and works
It was certainly the biggest crowd by some margin that this reporter has experienced at a campaign launch in more than 30 years of local government reporting.
And it attracted many more dignitaries like Mayors, MPs and local Councillors than any other campaign launch this reporter has attended. The second biggest was attended by just one MP and one Mayor.
One guarantee Ken gave during his speech was the rates would be “something we will look at.
“I will consider myself a failure if we do not make an impact on the reduction of rates if I am elected Mayor,” he said.
Part of the huge crowd at the Wainuiomata Marae for Ken Laban’s Mayoral campaign launch. Photo: Frank Neill.
HON SHANE JONES Authorised by H Howard, 91 Makino Road, Feilding
Hutt City Councillor John Briggs speaking at Ken Laban’s Mayoralty campaign launch.
Photo: Frank Neill.
Luamanuvao Dame Winnie Laban speaking at the launch of her brother’s Mayoral campaign. Photo: Frank Neill.
Four standing for Lower Hutt Mayor
By Frank Neill
Wainuiomata’s Fauono Ken Laban is one of four candidates standing for the Lower Hutt Mayoralty, the list of candidates following the closing of nominations on 1 August shows.
Brady Dyer, Karen Morgan and Prabha Ravi are the other three standing for the city’s top elected office. Eleven candidates are standing for the six seats on the Wainuiomata Community Board.
They include the current board’s Deputy Chair Lesa Bingley and board member Daniel Chrisp. The nine other candidates are Elle Abel, Simeon Collier-Foley, Sharon Page, Nohokainga Puletaitaha-Lai, Anaru Ryall, Lahraine Sagaga, Vatau
Sagaga, Nicky Smith and Mailena Rawiri Woonton.
The current Wainuiomata Ward Councillor, Cr Keri Brown, has been re-elected unopposed after her nomination was the only one that was submitted.
Wainuiomata’s Te Awa Puketapu, has also been elected unopposed to the one position on the Mana Kairangi ki Tai Māori Ward.
Twelve candidates are standing for the five “at large” seats on the Council, where they will be representing the whole of Lower Hutt.
They are: Sherry Antony, Brady Dyer, Andrew Gavriel, Jonathon Gilbert, Semi Kuresa, Suzanne Levy, Kath McGuinness, Chris Paul, Prabha Ravi, Tony Stallinger, Mele
Above: Cr Keri Brown, who has been re-elected unopposed as the Wainuiomata Ward Councillor. Photo: Supplied.
Left: Te Awa Puketapu, who has been elected unopposed as the Mana Kairangi ki Tai Māori Ward Councillor. Photo: Supplied.
Tonga-Grant and Karen (Kaz) Yung.
Eight nominations have been made for the Greater Wellington Regional Council (GWRC) Te Awa Kairangi ki Tai/Lower Hutt Regional Constituency, including one of the current Lower Hutt Regional Councillors, Quentin Duthie.
The other current Lower Hutt GWRC Councillor, Ken Laban, is standing for Mayor of Lower Hutt. There are three vacancies, and the other candidates are: Nigel Elder, Omar Faruque, Mike Fisher, Tom Murphy, Matt Shand, Mike Stevenson and Gabriel Tupou.
Gabriel, who lives in Wainuiomata, is currently an “at large” Hutt City Councillor, representing the whole of Lower Hutt.
Big koha
Love Wainuiomata has presented a $2,100 koha to the Kokiri Marae Pātaka Kai.
The koha came from all the stallholder fees at the hugely successful Matariki ki Wainuiomata 2025, held at the Wainuiomata Marae on Friday 20 June.
This event attracted thousands of people to the Marae to celebrate Matiriki and was brought to Wainuiomata by Kokiri Marae Health and Social Services, Love Wainuiomata, Wainuiomata Marae, TiHei Rangatahi and Omata FM.
“Our local Pātaka Kai is a true lifeline, providing kai and care for whānau in need with endless aroha,” Love Wainuiomata says.
“This koha will help them continue their extraordinary mahi, supporting not only Wainuiomata but the wider Hutt Valley.
“Special thank you to our stallholders and everyone who continues to uplift and support our local initiatives.”
Free Friday Table Tennis
Free Table Tennis takes place in the Wainuiomata Community Centre Supper Room every Friday from 9am to noon.
While the group that meets for Table Tennis consists mostly of seniors, all age groups and levels of ability are welcomed. Morning tea is provided (a gold coin Koha is appreciated).
For seniors, there are significant benefits of playing table tennis.
Lots of fun and laughter is had by all. People wanting some exercise and good company are welcome to come along on Fridays.
For more information call Steve on 027 440 2162.
Need help getting to sleep?
Recently I have been struggling with getting a full night’s sleep. So, after doing some research, I discovered these half-dozen key habits that have helped me, and suggest you try them too:
1. Stick to a sleeping schedule
Set aside between seven and eight hours each night for sleeping, with regular start and finish times, even at weekends. If you don’t fall asleep within 20 minutes, then get up and do something relaxing.
2. Be careful what you eat and drink
Avoid eating large meals within a couple of hours of bedtime. Also, be cautious with nicotine, caffeine, and alcohol.
3. Create a restful environment
Exposure to light can make it harder to fall asleep. Avoid prolonged use of light-emitting screens just before bedtime. Then make your bedroom as quiet and dark as possible to help you drift off.
4. Limit daytime naps
If you choose to nap, limit yourself to a maximum of 30 minutes, and
avoid doing so late in the day.
5. Include physical activity in your daily routine
Regular physical activity can help to promote better sleep. But avoid being active too close to bedtime. Getting fresh air every day may be helpful, too.
6. Manage worries
Try to resolve worries or concerns before bedtime. Jot down what’s on your mind, and then set it aside for tomorrow. Stress management practices can also be of assistance. Start with the basics such as getting organised, setting priorities, and delegating tasks.
Nearly everyone has the occasional sleepless night. But if it becomes a habit that’s hard to break, it might be time to consider seeking professional help or medication.
Source: https://www.mayoclinic.org/
Buses replacing trains
Off peak trains on the Hutt Valley line are being replaced by buses between 9:30am and 2:30pm on most week days between now and 27 November.
This follows more than $143 million allocated in Budget 2025 for critical rail infrastructure renewals in Auckland and Wellington. The first project to get under way is on the Hutt Valley line, and work began on 4 August. KiwiRail chief metro and capital programme officer David Gordon says receiving more rail funding is great, but requires more time on the tracks.
“The additional funding from this year’s budget allows us to get on with critical upgrades,” Mr Gordon says.
“To deliver these improvements within the funding timeframe, we need to make the most of available work windows, which includes weekday rail closures during off-peak hours, allowing us to concentrate our efforts where the network needs it most.”
Planned works during the four-month closure include replacing large sections of sleep-
ers and line either side of Ava Bridge in Lower Hutt.
“After years of underinvestment, Metlink and KiwiRail are working closely to ensure essential upgrades are delivered with as little impact on passengers as possible,” Greater Wellington Acting Chair Adrienne Staples says. Metlink senior manager of operations, Paul Tawharu, says the timing of the upcoming works is designed to reduce disruption for most passengers.
“By scheduling works during quieter parts of the day – between the morning and afternoon peaks – we can limit the impact on commuter services, but we acknowledge the impact of bus replacements on people’s journeys,” Mr Tawharu says.
“Off-peak rail users are encouraged to plan ahead, allow extra time for travel, and to please be respectful of our frontline staff and transport officers.” People can find the latest travel information on the Metlink website, www. metlink.org.nz/news-andupdates/news/hutt-valley-lineinterpeak-closures, or app.
Chris Bishop MP for Hutt South
Please contact my Wainuiomata office, my staff and I are here to help.
Phone 04 564 8707 or email me at Chris.bishopMP@parliament.govt.nz
Standing for Community Board
Local Wainuiomata resident and community advocate Anaru Ryall has announced his candidacy for the Wainuiomata Community Board in this year’s local body elections.
Anaru, who has lived in Wainuiomata with his whānau for a decade, is well-known for his community leadership and commitment to grassroots action.
His daughter attends Wainuiomata High School, and his one-year-old son is enrolled at Te Kōhanga Reo o Upoko Ā Urunga, where Anaru also serves as Chair.
"As a community organiser, trade unionist, and part-time sports broad-
caster, I've spent my life working alongside others to make a difference,” Anaru says.
“From advocating for fairer conditions in workplaces to helping bring the Wainuiomata welcome sign to life as former Coordinator of Love Wainuiomata, my focus has always been about getting things done together.”
Anaru believes the Community Board should be more visible and active, with a stronger presence in the community and greater involvement in supporting whānau and community groups.
He wants to bring a collaborative, heart-led approach to the board.
LETTERS to the editor
“It’s not just about being in meetings – it’s about being present in the community, listening deeply, and leading with empathy,” he says.
“Strong relationships are the foundation for real progress in Wainuiomata.” Anaru is encouraging all eligible voters in Wainuiomata to participate in the upcoming local elections and have their say on the future of the community.
“I love this place and I believe in its potential,” he says.
“I’m standing to be part of a Community Board that works hard, stays connected and helps Wainuiomata thrive.”
Surcharges going
Wow for the Government action to save us on card surcharges on purchases
Even though the Government minister tells us it will save us money I have already seen retailers publicise that the only way they can deal with that is to raise prices.
But we can and should go further. I already have given up my membership of the NZSO and refuse to go to their concerts even though I enjoyed the music.
That is because when I try to purchase a ticket for the advertised price I find out at the end of the booking and during the pay phase that extra charges for booking and other fees has been added.
I have remonstrated in the past and asked how much I had to pay as a surprise cost to use the door or even the doormat. If I am stung with an additional cost after I decided to pay the advertised price I will run a mile.
I know that the NZSO will say that it is not their fault as they sublet the ticket sales, but the same principle as other surcharges apply Paul J Franken
Authorised by Chris Bishop, Parliament Buildings, Wgtn.
Anaru Ryall and Luamanuvao Dame Winnie Laban at the Wainuiomata Library. Photo: Supplied.
Wainui the Wellington Squash champions
Wainuiomata’s D Grade Ladies Squash Team won the Wellington District Superchamps hosted at the Upper Hutt Squash Club over the weekend of 25 to 27 July.
In doing so they qualified for the National Superchamps, becoming the first Wainuiomata team in 18 years to acheive this milestone.
Wainui’s D Grade Ladies delivered a dominant performance, going unbeaten across all five of their ties.
The team showcased a blend of skill, grit, and composure under pressure throughout the weekend.
A strong turnout of club members over the weekend helped the team push through when it mattered most, showing that this victory is not just a milestone for the players but a proud moment for the entire Wainuiomata Squash Club.
The most nail-biting tie came against a strong Tawa team. With the tie locked at 2–2, Abby Su’a Cherry took to the court for the deciding match.
Under intense pressure, she held her nerve to secure the win, sending Wainui through to Nationals.
Highlights from the event included:
• Kim Watene and Shelby Burns remained undefeated across all five of their matches, providing the team with consistent wins; and
• Bonnie-Lee Nicholas, one of the club’s up and coming junior players, won four out of five matches – including a standout victory against a player ranked a full grade above her.
The District Superchamps is a fiercely contested annual event, with clubs from across Wellington and the Wairarapa entering teams across various grades.
This year’s D Grade competition featured six teams, each made up of seven players, with five taking the court in each tie.
Matches ran from Friday through Sunday, with each team playing five ties. The first team to win three matches in a tie claims the victory – making every game crucial.
Squash
Bonnie-Lee
The team now prepares to represent the Wellington District at the National Superchamps, taking place in Invercargill from 9 to 14 September where they will face off against the top teams from 10 other Districts for the national title.
The Wellington champion Wainuiomata D Grade Ladies
Team (from left): Laura Nanai, Roena Rogers,
Nicholas, Dani Burdon, Shelby Burns, Kaleb Allardyce (Manager/Coach), Abby Su'a Cherry and Kim Watene. Photo: Supplied.
Funeral Directors
Funeral Directors Generations of Honouring Legacy
For generations, Gee and Hickton have been dedicated to caring for your loved ones. Honouring your loved one’s legacy is our purpose. Our family caring for your family. www.geeandhickton.co.nz
Trades Graham’s Painters
New strategy to promote events
OR CAR -
to store car, short term required, Tel 027-2768827
Lower Hutt City Council has a new events strategy that aims to make Lower Hutt more
city.
The new Events Strategy 20252034 sets out a clear approach to unlock new opportunities and help people run great events, the Council
says. At its heart is a vision for long-term partnerships with organisers and attracting events that locals love and visitors travel for.
Experienced tradesmen and large team
Get your House Exterior and Interior painted! ~ Pensioner Discounts ~
Mayor Campbell Barry says events are a key part of Lower Hutt’s future because they help boost the local economy and showcase what makes the city unique.
“This strategy is about backing events – whether that’s festivals, major tournaments, or something new and exciting. It’s a clear signal that Lower Hutt is open for business,” the Mayor says.
We seek an enthusiastic and committed person for the position of Gateway Administrator. The position involves co-ordinating student work experience placements to allow students to gain hands on experience within an industry while gaining credits and developing pathways to further education, training or employment. We need someone who is personable and able to develop and maintain relationships with industry training organisations, employers,
WEDNESDAY
Is a mushroom a vegetable?
A mushroom is neither a fruit nor a vegetable; technically mushrooms aren’t even plants. They are a special type of fungus—a notion that puts some people off. If you don’t mind the fungus part, though, mushrooms are a great addition to a healthy diet—not to mention totally delicious.
CROSSWORD
CROSSWORD
CROSSWORD
The approach has already paid off with events like the New Zealand Junior Girls Rugby Festival from 10 to 12 October at Fraser Park.
This is a part-time position of 25 hours per week, term time only, based at Wainuiomata High
This event brings together 65 teams from across Aotearoa. It’s expected to boost the local economy by $1.3 million.
Please email a covering letter and your CV and any direct enquiries to Cherie Holmes, Gateway Co-Ordinator at cherieh@wainuiomatahigh.school.nz, 04 9383224
Closing date: 3.00pm Friday, 29 February 2024
“If we grow the number and scale of events like these, we’re not just putting on a good time – we’re putting money in local tills and supporting jobs. That’s a smart investment,” Mayor Barry says.
“Done right, events drive spending and bring life into our city. We need to be backing them.”
ACROSS
1. Sir Ed Hillarys’ previous occupation (9)
ACROSS
1. Result (5-6)
1. Result (5-6)
6. Small dog breed (9)
7. Scoundrel (7)
(9)
7. Scoundrel (7)
11. Bog (5)
Bog (5)
11. Pulls (5)
11. Pulls (5)
12. Deviousness (7)
Convert into money (7)
(7)
12. Deviousness (7)
Gazelle (5)
Gazelle (5)
13. Excellent (5)
13. Excellent (5)
14. Alert (9) 15. So (9)
Behave cruelly towards (3-5)
14. Alert (9)
Dogged (10)
15. So (9)
Japanese outcast (3)
16. Directs (6)
African plant (4)
18. Skull (7)
21. Disorder (4)
21. Disorder (4)
23. Racket (3)
25. Take by sips (3)
55. U.S. novelist; Mark
55. U.S. novelist; Mark
For September 29, 2004 ACROSS
25. Take by sips (3)
Style of cooking (7) 24. Cuban cigar (6) 26. Unit of electric current (3) 28. Common (5) 29. Knee-cap (7)
Sent (11) 4. Of public revenue (6) 5. Turn outwards (5) 6. Constrict (7)
8. U.S. NAtional Anthem ‘ Banner’ (4-8)
8. U.S. NAtional Anthem ‘ Banner’ (4-8)
7. Has high morals (8)
Form of expression (5)
Water vapour (5)
50. Gambol (5)
Gambol (5) Solution last week,
SOLUTION
SOLUTION
9. Combine (5)
8. Reduce (6)
9. Combine (5)
10. Triflers in art (11)
9. Sanction (7)
10. Triflers in art (11)
15. Hyson (3)
10. Audacity (5)
15. Hyson (3)
16. Apiece (4)
16. Arrange in steps (7)
16. Apiece (4)
Constrict (7) 7. Has high morals (8) 8. Reduce (6) 9. Sanction (7) 10. Audacity (5) 16. Arrange in steps (7)
17. ‘Old Blue Eyes’ Frank (7)
19. Competitor (5)
19. African bloodsucker; fly (6)
19. African bloodsucker; fly (6)
17. ‘Old Blue Eyes’ Frank (7)
21. Garden plant (7)
21. Garden plant (7)
20. N.Z. Prime Minister 1975-84 Sir Robert (7)
23. Referee (6)
23. Referee (6)
22. Boils (7)
25. Pear-shaped fruit (7)
Competitor (5) 20. N.Z. Prime Minister 1975-84 Sir Robert (7) 22. Boils (7)
25. Pear-shaped fruit (7)
24. Catch (3)
26. Outdated (3-9)
Catch (3)
26. Outdated (3-9)
27. Holy (6)
26. Group of whales (3)
27. Holy (6)
29. Topic (5)
Insurer (11)
28. Insurer (11)
31. Uninvited guest (4-7)
Group of whales (3) 29. Topic (5) 31. Uninvited guest (4-7)
30. Even(poetic) (3) 31. Deadly (6)
Even(poetic) (3)
Deadly (6)
32. Deoxyribonucleic acid
For July 28, 2004
Deoxyribonucleic acid 44. Annual calendar (7)
For April 9, 2003
For April 9, 2003
For July 28, 2004
Premier Footballers up to second
By Ryan Imray
With Wellington Olympic defeating the Wellington Phoenix, Wainuiomata’s Men’s Capital Premier side knew that a win against Petone would send them second on the table.
The first 45 minutes of the 2 August match was an even affair with both sides having their chances but unable to find the back of the net as the first half ended 0-0.
Ten minutes into the second half and Wainuiomata got the breakthrough.
A Baxter King corner was met by the head of Jack Imray which forced the Petone
goalkeeper into a good save but Flynn McCaul was the first to react to head home the rebound.
Petone pushed for an equaliser but in the 81st minute, Flynn McCaul scored his second and sealed the game for the hosts as he got on the end of a cross after some brilliant work by Hadley Attewell.
As well as lifting Wainui to second on the table, the 2-0 win sets up a top-of-the-table clash as their next game is against first placed Wellington Olympic at Wakefield Park on 9 August.
The Reserves travelled to face third placed Brooklyn United.
Braydon Gelderblom came off the bench to rescue a point for Wainui as the game ended in a 1-1 draw.
The Thirds had a 3-0 defeat against Victoria University while Halfbaked Roundballs sadly saw their unbeaten run come to an end. Their away trip to Lower Hutt ended with a 3-0 win to Lower Hutt.
Pasifika Originals made the trip up the coast to face Kāpiti and they left with a point as the game finished 1-1.
Pasifika Old Boys sadly had another loss added to their name as they also suffered a 3-0 defeat.
On Sunday 3 August, the Women’s side
travelled to face Upper Hutt. Upper Hutt took an early lead to give them the lead heading into the break.
Just two minutes into the second half, Mangala Kasongo had a moment of individual brilliance to level the scores.
After receiving the ball just inside her own half, Mangala ran 50 metres taking on four Upper Hutt defenders before calmly slotting the ball into the back of the net.
Despite both teams pushing for that second goal in a very entertaining game of football, the score remained 1-1 and both teams added another point to their season’s tally.
Lionesses win two League titles
By Frank Neill
The Wainuiomata Lioness teams completed an outstanding season for the valley’s Rugby League women with two teams winning their championships and a third finishing as runners-up.
The Under 16 Lioness took out their title with a 30-22 victory over Randwick at Te Whiti Park on 3 July.
A great first half saw the Lioness led 22-10 at half time.
Deeana Va’a-Sila scored two tries for the Lioness.
Taliah Mapakaitolo, Kaewa-Li Lukitau,
Glennis Ah Fua and Maia Mapakaitolo also touched down.
Kaewa-Li kicked two converversions and Zerenity Mill-Simpson kicked one conversion.
The Under 14 Lioness won their championship with a 24-8 victory over Whiti Te Ra in the final on 3 August.
Leah-Ray Roil was in outstanding form for the Lioness, scoring three tries.
Layla-Grace Lealava’a and Kiera Thompson also dotted won and Keilani Orupe kicked two conversons.
The Lioness scored three first half tries to lead 14-4 at the break.
The Lioness Premier women’s team finished as runners-up after they lost the final, when the Porirua Valkyrie beat them 20-14 at the Hutt Recreation Ground on 2 July. It took a late comeback by the Valkyrie to win the title when they scored three tries after the Lioness had led 14-8 early in the second half.
Manaia Maxwell-Pouohotaua was in great form for the Lioness, scoring two tries.
Nataahia Pasene also dotted down and Acacia Claridge-Te Iwimate kicked one conversion.
Jack Imray expresses his delight after the Wainui Premiers took the lead. Photo: Imray’s Snaps. Flynn McCaul celebrates after scoring his second goal for the Wainuiomata Premiers.
Photo: Imray’s Snaps.
The Wellington under 16 girls League champions. Photo: Supplied.
The Wellington under 14 girls League champions. Photo: Supplied.
Ulalei Aute makes Premier grand final
Ulalei Aute has booked their place in the Premier 1 Grand Final, securing a direct route to the championship match after finishing at the top of the table.
With one round still to play and semi-finals yet to unfold, their consistent excellence throughout the season has earned them a well-deserved spot in the grand final.
Their performance against St Oran’s on 2 August was nothing short of spectacular, crushing the opposition with a commanding 72–36 victory.
From the opening whistle, Aute asserted their dominance, showcasing a full arsenal of skill, strategy, and natural flair.
Goal shooters Sina Tamaali’i and Emma-May Murray-Fifita were in complete control, and had the ball on a string – sinking goals at will with calm precision. Their fingertip control and seamless shooter-to-shooter passes left the opposition mesmerised.
Light on their feet, the duo glided effortlessly across the court, using subtle body movements to carve out space and create perfect angles for their feeders.
It was a masterclass in movement, timing, and finishing under pressure.
They even threw in some razzle-dazzle for the crowd, delivering no-look Peta-Toeava-style passes and a flurry of two-point shots.
The ever-reliable two-point specialist, Armani Fruean, who was unavailable for this game, would have been proud.
In the midcourt, Angela Milovale and Oakley Baldwin orchestrated play with poise and intelligence, shifting the tempo from lightning-fast transitions to calm, deliberate ball movement. Their ability to read the game and deliver clean feeds to the shooters was instrumental.
Young talents Ellery Ridson and Tayla-Kei Rahui-Laulau added spark and energy, making strong attacking runs and consistently delivering accurate passes into the circle, adding depth and dynamism to the attacking end.
At the defensive end, Alofa Aberdein-Tapua’i led with authority, acting as the conductor of a well-drilled unit.
Alongside Kimiora Winiata, Cerie Milovale and Tahlia
Samuelu, she built a formidable wall that St Oran’s struggled to breach.
The defensive pressure was relentless, forcing error after error—misdirected passes, turnovers, and balls sent straight into Aute’s hands.
Tahlia was in sensational form, racking up intercepts with ease and doing it all with her trademark smile.
The execution of Aute’s zone defence was poetry in motion.
Each player carried out their role to perfection, creating a cohesive and impenetrable structure that stifled St Oran’s attack.
It was a complete performance, with Aute winning all four quarters, notably the final quarter finishing with a flourish – storming home 23–7.
Coaches Memory Timo and Brittany Antipas will no doubt be thrilled with the team’s form as they head into the business end of the season.
The power, speed and skill of the Premier 1 defending champions was a spectacle to behold – like sitting back and watching a perfectly orchestrated symphony, each movement executed with skill, timing, and grace.
Care urged after spate of fatal house fires
Fire and Emergency New Zealand (FENZ) is asking everyone to put fire safety at the front of their minds following a spike in the number of fatal house fires.
Risk Reduction and Investigations Manager
Peter Gallagher says that in the last 12 months there have been 17 people who have died in avoidable residential house fires.
"This is our worst year in 10 years,” he says.
“With the cooler weather, we see more house fires.
“It is so important that people take some simple steps to ensure whānau and friends are safe."
"A fire can be un-survivable within just three minutes which is why it’s so important to get that early warning of fire from your smoke alarms."
Peter says that in many of the recent fatal fires there have been working smoke alarms, but they have not been the right places.
"Having one working smoke alarm in your lounge won’t help if a fire starts from the heater in your bedroom and you’re asleep in there with the door closed.
"Make sure you have working smoke alarms in all bedrooms, hallways and living areas – including in caravans and in sleep outs.
"When you hear your smoke alarms go off, get out and stay out.
“Make sure your family has a three-step escape plan.
"A three-step escape plan is working smoke alarms, your best and alternative ways out, and a safe meeting place," he says.
Peter says it is important to keep flammable materials, such as clothing or bedding, at least one metre from the heater or fire.
"As well as this, check all electrical equipment is in good working order.
"If you use an electric blanket, check for hotspots by turning it on high for 15 minutes, then switching it off and running your hand over the blanket.
“Make sure to turn your electric blanket off before you go to sleep."
Peter says that during winter months people have been known to turn to dangerous alternative heating sources to heat their homes.
"We remind people that all outdoor equipment should not be used as a heating method within their home."
Peter says more fire safety advice can be found at https://www.fireandemergency.nz/ winter-fire-safety/.
"Take the time this weekend to put some of these simple steps in place. They can save lives." FENZ’s top fire safety tips are:
• Have working smoke alarms in all bedrooms, hallways and living areas – including in caravans and in sleep outs. Check they are working by pushing the button each month.
• When your smoke alarms sounds, get out and stay out.
• Have a three-step escape plan in place. That is working smoke alarms, your best and alternative ways out, and a safe meeting place.
• Keep all flammable items at least a metre from the heater.
• Check all electrical equipment is in good working order, including electric blankets. Assistance with smoke alarms is a free service provided by the Wainuiomata Volunteer Fire Brigade.
To receive assistance, phone the brigade on 04 564
or email FENZwellington@ fireandemergency.nz.
Goal shoot Sina Tamaali’i lines up a shot. Photo: Supplied.
