Cambridge News | September 28, 2023

Check it, clean it

By Mary Anne Gill

Lake Karāpiro users should leave behind any gold clams they see in the water and instead concentrate on cleaning up the equipment they use on the water.

And to help lake users out, the Ministry of Primary Industries (MPI) will soon establish permanent wash stations so people can check, clean and dry their boats, waka, kayaks, canoes, wakeboards, jetskis, wetsuits, nets and anything else which could attract the new lake invader.

Waikato community

leaders listened grimly last week to MPI technical specialist, scientist Scott Sinclair, and director of readiness and response John Walsh as they briefed them on the invasive clam incursion first found at Bob’s Landing earlier this year.

Freshwater gold clamsCorbicula Fluminea – also known as corbicula or the Asian gold clam, had been there for at least two years but not seen anywhere else on the Waikato River or its tributaries, they told about 50 people in the Don Rowlands Centre at Lake Karāpiro. But because the clams

easily attach themselves to anything, the risk of them turning up somewhere else is high unless lake users play their part, said Walsh. Among the government agency’s jobs is to protect New Zealand from biological risk, which is why the Environment and Primary Production select committees took it to task in June for its response to the clam discovery.

Taranaki-King Country MP Barbara Kuriger, who was a member of the select committee, was at Karāpiro and told The News she and the other members

were furious with MPI’s communication.

MPI was ordered to sort out its communications, particularly with Waikato River users, which prompted the briefing last week.

“I’m happy with the communication that is now happening, but it’s taken a while to get to this point,” said Kuriger.

Less impressed was Taupō MP Louise Upston, whose electorate covers the area where the invasive clam was first found.

“I just think this should have been held months ago. There is still a massive lack of understanding from the public and I think it should have been treated with sufficiently more urgency.”

At the briefing she heard about a report MPI would release on Monday outlining its response tactics. “I will be reading it with a great deal of interest,” she said. “I hope it’s not too late to have averted a major spread.”

In a reference to Mycoplasma Bovis, she said it felt like a seriously missed opportunity “and if this incursion had been on land, it would have been treated with a lot more urgency”.

Mycoplasma Bovis was first found in South Island cattle and in the Waikato on a farm near Cambridge in May 2018. The government undertook to be the first

Miniature menace

country in the world to eradicate the cattle disease and declared the last property disease-free early last month, having spent $650 million.

The agency’s response to the gold clams is now covered by regulations under the Biosecurity Act. People must not knowingly move or spread the clams or water that may contain them.

Walsh said water users can stop its spread, hence the check, clean and dry message which will dominate signage, pamphlets, advertising and social media throughout the summer.

Each clam – 10-30mm in size - can live up to five years and produce up to 35,000 juveniles, which develop inside the adults and are then released into the water at 0.25mm.

Walsh was involved from 2004 when Didymosphenia Geminata – commonly known as didymo, or “rock snot” – was discovered in the Waiau River in Southland.

The check, clean and dry public awareness campaign proved successful in preventing its spread to the North Island and the highly productive Taupō fishery.

“Getting (corbicula) out of the river is probably not achievable,” but prevention, early detection, containment and control would help, said Walsh.

Adult freshwater gold clams release tiny juveniles like this one into the water. They drift on the current, pulled along by a sticky mucous thread which then helps them catch a spot to settle and grow. The youngest clams are too small to see and can attach to boats and gear with the help of their sticky threads. Clams will make their own way downstream, but they can’t make any significant progress upstream by themselves.

Small freshwater gold clams may look like native peaclams or small freshwater mussels (kākahi/kāeo). The key features to look for when distinguishing freshwater gold clams are ribbing on the shell, the colour and symmetrical shape. While people do eat freshwater gold clams in parts of Asia where they are native, they are not safe to eat from the Waikato River. They filter-feed from the water and will accumulate toxins in their gut.

Photo: Dan Minchin.

From left Waikato community representatives Peter Carr, Mike Pettit, Kelly Bouzaid, Liz Stolwyk and Canoe Racing High Performance’s Craig Mustard, at the Freshwater Gold Clam (Corbicula Fluminea) briefing by MPI at Lake Karāpiro. Photo: Mary Anne Gill.

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Jimmy’s bowl heads to France

After Hokitika resident Jimmy Gordon made hundreds of handmade poppy bowls out of recycled matai and pounamu during the covid pandemic he gave two to the Cambridge RSA.

Now one of them is heading to France.

The RSA presented one of the bowls to Cambridge Community Board for the people of Le Quesnoy and kept the other to use in Anzac and Armistice Day services to hold poppies.

In May Cambridge Community Board chair Jo Davies-Colley started the process of sending the bowl to France, where she and Waipā mayor Susan O’Regan and deputy Liz Stolwyk will soon attend the opening of the New Zealand Liberation Museum Te Arawhata “and thank goodness I did”.

“I needed special Ministry of Culture and Heritage documents to ship the item due to its precious pounamu and matai, Customs clearance and multiple shipping forms from both myself and the council

in Le Quesnoy to get the item there,” Davies-Colley said.

“I had to get a French speaking Cambridge local, Sandrine Pryor, to help me make late night calls to the Le Quesnoy council to sort out the paperwork.”

The bowl should arrive this week and Davies-Colley and O’Regan will present it to the mayor of Le Quesnoy, MarieSophie Lesne.

“It will be for the people of Le Quesnoy, and the mayor will find an appropriate place for it to be displayed. They are very excited for it to arrive,” Davies-Colley said.

Companies Pope Packaging and Mondiale Freight Services were inspired by the story of the relationship between Cambridge and Le Quesnoy and provided their services free to ensure the bowl reached its destination.

Gordon made 218 poppy bowls for every RSA in the country, churches and marae.

The weather has been a bit wild lately. It is a good reminder that preparedness for an adverse event is important.

Through their Capable Community Campaign, Neighbourhood Support Cambridge can assist with this. Together with the Community Engagement officer, Eileen Hawkins, your neighbourhood support group can put together a neighbourhood emergency plan. This plan shares neighbourhood contact information and also specialist skill sets and resources present within your street.

It also enables you to highlight vulnerable people in the neighbourhood who may need additional assistance in the case of an adverse weather event, for example help with mobilising for evacuation. This information may also be used by Civil Defence in a natural disaster situation improving the ability of your neighbourhood to appropriately and effectively respond and take care of each other.

If you are not already a member of a Neighbourhood Support Group in your street, sign up today.

Still on the topic of neighbourhoods working together, you can be a great source of information to help in the disruption of drug activity in Cambridge. From time to time I highlight this topic directly to specific neighbourhoods where suspicious activity has been reported.

As neighbours, you are often the first to notice an increase in short duration visitors to a particular address, overhear conversations around purchasing drugs combined with observations around transactions involving cash or commodity consumer electronics and the like being exchanged for an item. We need to know when and where this is happening.

Where drug dealing is occurring, there will often be a pattern of behaviour where this activity increases at certain times of the day or week, sometimes (but not always) pre-

empted by the arrival of a delivery from the same people or vehicle.

Besides notifying police of the address in question, information around visiting vehicle details (registrations and descriptions), occupants of the address, any delivery, sale and purchase patterns in addition noting any strange odours can help Police build a clear picture of the scale of offending and those involved. You can submit reports with information by phoning 105 or going online to 105.police.govt.nz . If you wish to report anonymously, you can phone Crimestoppers 0800 555 111.

At the time of writing this column, I am looking forward to the Coffee with a Cop event which was held after this edition went to press. If you have missed out on that one, be assured that there will be another opportunity for a similar event to be held in Leamington in the near future. Have a great week.

PICTURED RIGHT: Jono Pope, of Pope Packaging, pictured taking the poppy bowl from Jo Davies-Colley.

Quorum met

When two Waipā district councillors recently attended council meetings by video link from foreign fields, their presence did not go towards constituting a quorum. Now, following the passing of the Local Government Electoral Legislation Act, it will. The new rules also stipulate council, committee and workshop meetings must be chaired by someone present under standing orders and were adopted by the council this week.

Santa’s plans

Santa’s Workshop is the theme for the December 3 Cambridge Christmas Parade with four float categories – preschool, schools community groups and businesses. The parade will start at 2pm and is expected to last around 45 minutes.

Te Ara Wai debate

A public excluded item on the Te Ara Wai Museum project in Te Awamutu should have been held in public, Waipā councillor Roger Gordon told the council meeting this week. Earlier this year, ratepayers were told they could pay all up more than $27 million – up from $7.2 million when first mooted in 2017. The News understands costs have gone up beyond the $30 million mark now.

Pollard off Graham Pollard, Waipā’s Strategic Projects Driver for more than six years, is off to the Thames-Coromandel District Council as Climate Change principal advisor. His last two major projects for the council were approved at the council meeting this week –the Dog Control Policy and Public Places bylaws. “It’s been a lot of hard work, a lot of fun and while it has been serious hard work, we don’t have to be solemn,” he told councillors this week. See: New dog rules, page 5.

Liquor decision criticised

By Mary Anne Gill

Waipā’s alcohol compliance manager has hit out at the government for fast-tracking legislation which extended liquor licencing hours during the Rugby World Cup.

Karl Tutty says it is concerning the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act, which focusses on reducing alcohol related harm, is being used to increase hours during the cup, when harm is more likely to occur.

“The lack of communication around the Rugby World Cup amendment was disappointing.

There was no contact with this council/District Licensing committee until late July when the bill had been enacted,” he said in his annual report to the Alcohol Regulatory and Licensing Authority for the year ended June 30.

The licensing committee had seen an increase in labour and employment issues including cases where licensees were underpaying staff and taking advantage of migrant workers, he said in the report tabled at this week’s Waipā District Council meeting.

Tutty told councillors while he had been disappointed about the Rugby World Cup bill, subsequent communication from the Ministry of Justice had been very good.

“They’ve stepped up their game in that space,” he said.

Asked to report on any other changes or trends, Tutty said more applications have been received for remote sellers or premises wanting to do on-site and remote sales.

There had also been a growth in small brewing and distilling companies plus there had been a continued growth in enquiries which

were not foreseen by the act and struggled to fit licence types and criteria.

Tutty criticised the lack of progress on a national database for manager certificate holders making it harder to track who is listed to work where.

“Some people are listed working as duty manager over multiple districts.”

For the second year running Tutty urged the government to review the act. Last year then mayor Jim Mylchreest said reports from Tutty and his counterparts around the country seemed to go “into a large black hole.”

The committee processed a record 412 applications, the highest since the act came into force in 2012.

It granted 24 new on licences and renewed another 19; issued 106 new managers’ certificates with one refused.

The number of licences in

Waipā as at June 30 were 73 on-licences, 37 off-licences and 29 club licences.

There was a significant increase in the number of special licences - 42 last year to 134 - largely due to the return of large events and the National Agricultural Fieldays occurring twice within the reporting period.

Social and support organisations were asking to see more applications while the committee was providing more assistance to the public so they were more aware of applications.

“There has also been greater media interest,” said Tutty, a reference in part to The News’ continued interest in liquor applications.

Waipā’s District Licensing Committee is chaired by commissioner Sara Grayson and includes deputy chair Cr Marcus Gower and members Ross Murphy, Patsi Davies, Michael

Cameron, Roy Johnson, Tegan McIntyre and John Gower.

Its purpose is to consider and determine applications for licences, manager’s certificates, renewal of licenses and manager’s certificates, temporary authorities and other matters pursuant to section 187 of the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act 2012.

Board looks at waste plan

By Jeremy Smith

Politicians

The board has signalled an interest in the Te Awamutu project. Member Sally Whitaker’s motion put to the August meeting opposing the plant was eventually amended to one resolving the board would make a submission on it.

Global Metal Solutions said the plant, which would be New Zealand’s first, would use proven, sustainable waste minimisation technologies.

The company has cited examples like Vienna’s Pfaffenau Waste Incineration Plant in Simmering. It opened in 2008 and converts 250,000 tonnes of waste into energy annually.

The plant would be built in Racecourse Road and opponents are concerned at both its impact on the environment and the fact that rubbish would be sourced from both in and outside of Waipā.

The company says the Paewira design will divert 150,000 tonnes of waste a year away from landfill, recover 80 tonnes of recyclable material a day and convert the waste into electricity to power 15,000

homes.

The company plans to erect three buildings to house a power generator, a waste recycling plant and furnace and boiler system and an education, exhibition, cafe and staff facilities.

Opponents held a public meeting at the Te Awamutu library on Tuesday, ahead of the community board meeting.

Opponents say Paewira – which will take in rubbish, sort and recycle it, and then combust what cannot be recycled to power steam turbines –should be stopped.

The environmental groups Go Eco and Zero Waste Network Aotearoa, under the moniker “Don’t Burn Waipa”, argue the plant will be in the middle of a residential neighbourhood with schools, food, businesses and significant future residential housing immediately around it.

Waipā District Council opened public submissions earlier this month after the application sat dormant for almost a year.

Presentations from Roger Wilson of Global Metal Solutions and Sue Coutts of the Zero Waste Network Aotearoa were tabled at this week’s September meeting of the Te Awamutu-Kihikihi Community Board.

An aerial view of Paewira’s proposed ‘footprint’ in Racecourse Rd.

Photo: Supplied.

Waipā Compliance manager Karl Tutty.

Council sets dog rules

Unlocking the land

By Roy Pilott

The long-term Southern Links roading plan will unlock fertile Waikato land and open up commercial opportunities for the Waikato and Waipā districts.

The project will link State Highway 1C from Kahikatea Drive in Hamilton to Tamahere and the Waikato Expressway in the south, and State Highway 3 from Hamilton Airport to central and east Hamilton.

By Mary Anne Gill

A Dog Control Policy and Bylaw has been adopted by Waipā District Council after months of public debate.

The bylaw was last changed in 2015 and initial informal community engagement to update it began last year.

The council adopted it at its council meeting this week.

Debate on the eastern side of the district in Cambridge centred around when dogs could exercise unleashed around Lake Te Koo

Utu while in the west there was concern about banning dogs from Kakepuku, Kihikihi Domain and Memorial Park.

Strategic Policy advisor Graham Pollard – who has lived and breathed the consultation and fielded a lot of the flak – told the council the policy and bylaw attracted 277 submissions.

Three staff recommendations were not accepted or amended.

That means Cambridge Park

Oval remains a ‘dog exercise area’, Victoria Square in Cambridge is off limits at all times in summer and in winter when a market is on and owners can have no more than four dogs off leash in a dog exercise area.

Lake Te Koo Utu in Cambridge is a popular dog exercise area. Under the new rules dogs can only walk there off a leash but under control between 6pm and 10am in summer and 3pm to 10am in winter. Many dog owners have consistently maintained their pooches should be allowed unleashed there all the time.

Dogs will not be allowed on Kakepuku following concerns raised by Te Kopua Marae committee and nor will they be seen on Kihikihi Domain. The same summer and winter hours as Lake Te Koo Utu will be in place at Memorial Park in Te Awamutu in the area north of the Mangaohoi Stream.

The bylaw will be implemented from December 1 to allow time

to change signs and add fencing, waste bins.

Areas where dogs will be prohibited are: Cambridge

• Victoria Square, Victoria Street: Summer hours: at all times; and winter hours: in any part of Victoria Square while that part is being used for a market

• Swimming pool, Williamson Street

• John Kerkhof Park and Athletic and Harrier Club grounds, Vogel Street (excludes town belt pedestrian circuit track corridor which is dog on lead)

• Rugby Sub-Union grounds, Taylor Street

• Leamington Sports ground, Carlyle Street (playing fields only but includes perimeter)

• Karapiro Gully, Gillies Street.

• Within any fenced public playground or play area, or within 5m of any unfenced public playground or play area

• Reserves where animals are being grazed

• All Department of Conservation Reserves unless a permit has been obtained from the DOC.

Maungatautari

• Mighty River Domain (Karapiro Domain)

– excludes that part of Te Awa River Ride within the Maungatautari Road corridor (Te Awa River Ride is “dog on leash”) and excludes the Gate 3 dog exercise area when not in use for events

• Maungatautari Scenic Reserve, Pukeatu

It will be a 32 km transport network, including 21km of state highways and 11km of arterial roads.

Though it is not forecast for construction funding in the next 10 years, Waka Kotahi has purchased swathes of land for the network including 36.6ha at The Narrows.

It only needs a portion of that golf course land – now used for grazing – for Southern Links.

The News has been asking what the future holds for the old golf course land not needed for Southern Links and bordering the Waikato River. It is zoned rural under the Waikato District Plan and the council has confirmed to The News there are no plans to change that.

Waka Kotahi purchased the site from Riverside Golf Club for $20 million five years ago and the golfers moved across the river last year to the newly-developed Tīeke course on the old Lochiel Golf Club site.

Hamilton’s advance to Waipā has already started with the Peacocke development and that relationship will develop further when the Waikato River bridge on Wairere Drive opens next year.

Waka Kotahi’s Jessica Andrew, regional manager systems design, Waikato-Bay of Plenty, said part of the former golf course is being held for the Southern Links and the remainder is being disposed of under the Public Works Act.

Waka Kotahi has approached council it to see if it needs any of the land not needed for Southern Links. The News also understands the agency has also contacted neighbouring landowners.

A Waikato district spokesperson told The News the council’s Community Connections team which looks after parks and reserves is determining whether or not there is a need to buy some of the land for public reserve purposes.

“As things stand now, the site is unlikely to be subdivided further under its current rural zoning, which would mean fewer than two lots – four homes.”

National MP for Taupō Louise Upston said the Southern Links road would open opportunities for districts to connect.

Hamilton City Council’s Detailed Business Case shows planning for 8400 new homes in the Peacocke area over 30 years which will house around 20,000 people.

Doggy time: Dogs will be able to walk around Te Koo Utu off a leash with their owners in summer between 6pm and 10am and in winter between 3pm and 10am under the new bylaw.

Photo: Mary Anne Gill.

Another train of thought

By Viv Posselt

What could be a world-first research project using model trains to help autistic children is primed for launch here thanks to the efforts of Cambridge miniature train enthusiasts.

The purpose-built folding Thomas the Tank Engine miniature railway layout was made by Waipā enthusiasts and unveiled in Cambridge.

The gathering at the Leamington Domain home of the Greater Waikato Railway Modellers (GWRM) marked the completion of the Thomas project and publicly thanked those who helped fund it, primarily the Cambridge Lions Club. The new ‘Thomas’ layout is portable, can be stretched across a hospital bed, and is accessible to youngsters in wheelchairs.

The concept of linking miniature trains and autism first took shape in GWRM president Paul Murphy’s mind a few years ago. He is known for his miniature railway, the Cambridge Brass Band and RSA connections. Less known is that he became one of New Zealand’s youngest naval commanders at 20, or, wearing his doctor of philosophy hat, the work he did in the field of sociology that has shaped government policy, both here and abroad.

Paul was also involved in a Western Australian family court programme on how to better

manage cases involving family violence and child abuse and worked for years as a facilitator in post-separation parenting and stepfamily education programmes.

It was through that lens, and years spent bringing miniature trains to the public, that the kernel of an idea started to take shape.

He explained: “We noticed a

while ago that there were some children coming along who were probably on the autism spectrum and found that when they engage with the trains, they’re doing things they aren’t doing at home or school. They’re concentrating for long periods of time, they’re often chatting more easily. Parents started noticing and commented

on it.”

Paul took his thoughts, along with a small-scale railway layout, to Hamilton’s Patricia Avenue School where the feedback supported his findings.

“They wrote a report saying it was one of the most brilliant sessions they had had, and suggested we look at getting a

Total Life in the Waikato

Friday saw the opening of Total Life’s new office space situated at 36 Victoria Street in Cambridge.

The official ceremony started with Harry Wilson from the local Tainui iwi completing a blessing over the newly refurbished space and welcoming the TLC team into the community. Richard Ferguson was on hand to reply on behalf of TLC and altogether this created a special moment that acknowledged the start of something new.

Total Life – Financial Advice is a full financial advisory business with a team of experienced advisers providing Insurance and Investment advice. The Leadership Team and advisers from Canterbury and Total Life’s head office in Invercargill travelled up to help the local Waikato team celebrate the milestone.

“The path to our business success and growth has been brought about by the focus on our people, wrapping our arms around our clients, expanding our offering and our footprint with the

opening of our newest regional office here in Cambridge.”

“Honouring our southern roots with our head office in Southland, we have grown into a nationwide business committed to offering specialised financial advice on Insurance, Investments, KiwiSaver and Mortgages. With Advisers based in Southland, Christchurch and the Waikato we are committed to bringing our services to the regions. We are

not limited by our location.”

“It’s key for us to build our business around our culture and the common principles that bring us together, the right fit and our TLC Way – Connection, Compassion, Commitment, Community. It’s this belief that makes our team successful both as a team but also as individuals.”

– Craig Kura – Total Life CEO.

The Cambridge office opening

research project done around it.”

Next, a supportive Otago University academic and friend patched Paul through to a Perthbased professor involved in children’s health research, then to a Wellington academic and finally, to Waikato University’s Associate Professor Angelika Anderson, a global expert on the topic from the university’s School of Psychology. All thought it warranted a deeper look.

Angelika was present at the Thomas the Tank layout unveiling. She later said the research project was one she hoped to work on in the coming year with several of her master’s students.

“A lot of children with autism are really attracted to things like trains … I’d like to look at it in terms of perceived benefits to children and their families. This is a good project for the students, and it could create a creative hub for the community.” Central to getting the project underway has been funding it. Paul said the first $20,000 is already in hand.

“We have had wonderful community support. Cambridge Lions gave us $1800, the Christmas Festival gave us $1000, and Jumble Around gave us $1400 over two consecutive years. There has also been a lot of ‘in kind’ help given.”

Lions Club president David Espin said the club was particularly happy to support the project for the community.

was celebrated with key industry providers, as well as their governing industry licence provider – Wealthpoint, key clients and family and friends.

Wealthpoint has 52 member businesses and 157 advisers within its network. Total Life was recently awarded Business of the Year at Wealthpoint’s 2023 Awards Evening – acknowledging TLCs team approach and ability to offer specialist advice and quality customer service.

Fidelity Life – a provider partner of Total Life also acknowledged TLC with Team of the Year at its Adviser Awards held last Wednesday prior to the Cambridge opening.

Total Life has been helping New Zealanders for over 23 years, providing advice for over 18,000 clients and over the last 5 years have helped their clients with over $25 million in claims.

36 Victoria Street offers a welcoming space where clients will know they will be taken care of – be sure to call in and see the team.

Lions club-linked sisters Emily and Lily Einkamerer, at left, listen to Paul Murphy (green t-shirt) talking about the Thomas the Tank layout.

Tracey Yardley, Murray Sim, Jane Maullin, Callum Eathorne, Tertia Guest, Karen McNeil, Jo Mathieson, Sarah Ruffell, Harry Wilson, Richard Ferguson, Craig Kura, Tyrone Maullin, Mark Breen, James Pearson.

Luxon cavalcade hits town

By Mary Anne Gill

Torrential rain beat National Party leader Christopher Luxon to Cambridge, but he did the right thing and took it with him after a 35-minute flying visit on Monday. Luxon was on his way to Matamata for a meet and greet and needed a stopover, so his team saw the opportunity to come off the Expressway at Hautapu and into Giltrap AgriZone, one of the country’s largest agricultural dealerships.

There managing director Andrew Giltrap took him on a tour of the dealership’s head office opened by then Prime Minister John Key in 2015.

But first Luxon in a Crown car had to manoeuvre his way through the huge

Mind your head

puddle overnight rain had deposited at the entrance where cameras waited to take the shot showing him “making a splash”.

There were also the obligatory shots of Luxon in a high-spec blue tractor and pointing to a child’s ride-on blue tractor with a dash of black.

Reporters who are on the campaign trail with him look for any sign and Luxon’s video posted to social media before his arrival saying he would form a coalition with New Zealand First after the election gave them the excuse.

“That’s blue with black,” one said about the mini tractor, followed by a wry smile from Luxon.

Taupō MP Louise Upston introduced Luxon to staff and a couple of National

supporters who had found their way to the dealership.

“Here in the mighty Cambridge part of the Taupō electorate, in the heart of the Waikato, agriculture still is the incredible backbone of our local economy as well as New Zealand. Fantastic to have the boss in town,” she said.

“Thank you for letting us gatecrash your morning,” said Luxon.

“I want to say that farmers are not villains. They’ve been treated like so over the last six years under this government and the reality is that agriculture is so important to us here in New Zealand.

“It is 11 per cent of our GDP, 13 per cent of all our employment, it drives 80 per cent of our export earnings, it generates $10,000 for every man, woman and child in the country and importantly we feed 40 million people around the world,” he said.

At cow and woolshed meetings, farmers were telling him 35 per cent of their time was tied up in paperwork rather than farming so it was time to get Wellington out of farming.

The travelling capital media, particularly those who had leant against dirty tractor wheels during the tour, seemed to appreciate that comment.

“You should be proud of farming. It has been a tough time for farmers over the last six years.

“We need our farmers to power us out of the low growth environment we are in.”

And with that Luxon was off to his meetings in Matamata followed by the trailing media looking for more quotes on a National-NZ First coalition.

By then the rain had stopped; Giltrap shouted his staff to a morning tea and the puddle started to disappear.

VOTE FROM 2 - 14 OCTOBER VOTE LOUISE UPSTON

GET TAUPŌ

Magpie madness is back.

Throughout the year the boisterous birds can often be seen in the skies defending their territories with two-on-one attacks on kahu – the harrier hawk.

Those within hearing range of their nests will get an Australian style morning wake up serenade and again at dusk.

But during their breeding season magpies can become aggressive, swooping and sometimes striking unsuspecting people. Posties have often been victims.

The black and white birds were out in force in central Cambridge last weekend and The News knows of at least one person who escaped an attack unharmed.

Magpies are another species foolishly introduced into New Zealand during the 1860s and they are now common throughout almost the entire country. They are intelligent birds and a Brisbane study suggested just 9 per cent were aggressive towards people, and almost all were male birds.

So what to do? Avoid areas where they are nesting and carry an umbrella if you are walking in areas where they are known to be. Do not run if you are being swooped on. Magpies usually swoop from behind, so one piece of advice is to maintain eye contact. Be aware that magpies appear to be irritated by cyclists.

Magpie swooping season is, thankfully, usually a short one.

Meeting the team: National Party leader Christopher Luxon meets Giltrap AgriZone staff from left: Sam Turkington, Sean Anson, Riley Butler and Adam Fischer.

Photo: Mary Anne Gill.

Male magpies are the usual offenders when it comes to swooping.

Photo: Waikato Regional Council

Get Gardening

It’s time to start planting your Summer crops in the veggie garden. Start with lettuces and salad crops along peas, beetroot, onions and herbs. Then add your staples like tomatoes, capsicums, courgette and cucumbers. Make sure your new plants are fed well by adding compost and manure along with fertiliser into the soil before planting. Regular feeding and watering will help ensure your crops do well. For your existing flower beds, trees, hedges and shrubs, top dress with compost and a layer of mulch to help lock in moisture and keep your plants root system cool in Summer. Now is also a great time to use a product like Yates Weed ‘n’ Feed on your lawn. It will fertilise as well as take care of broadleaf and prickle weeds including Onehunga weed. Happy gardening!

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Don’t hesitate, get out

You are enjoying a Kiwi summer road trip around Ruapehu volcano, checking out the gorgeous views and beautiful, clear rivers. You are sitting down with friends or family alongside a river soaking in the sun while other road-trippers are having a great time nearby, with kids looking for treasures in the shallow water.

You hear a low rumbling noise coming from up the river valley, towards Ruapehu, but you don’t see anything. The volcano is peaceful. You feel that something is not right and having learned about lahars, you don’t hesitate.

You quickly get your group back up the riverbank to your car, successfully warning the others that they should get away from the river. The noise gets louder, then the water rapidly rises, bringing with it tree limbs and large boulders. The water is now a brown, raging, deadly torrent, metres above the water level of less than a minute ago and flattening the riverbank vegetation that is now below it, where you were just sitting. Because you knew to head to higher ground, you just saved your own life and the lives of

those around you.

By Janine Krippner

A lahar is basically a volcanic mudflow - dangerous floods that race down volcanic slopes through river systems and valleys. They range from “dilute”, where it is mostly water with some sediment, to thick, muddy masses containing abundant rocks, boulders, trees, and anything else they pick up along their path. They are fast in their speed, and also in how rapidly the water rises. They can take out trees, houses, bridges, and roads. This happened on Christmas Eve in 1953, when a lahar destroyed the railway bridge at Tangiwai, south of Ruapehu, before the passenger express from Wellington reached it. That night 151 lives were lost.

Lahars can result from eruptions, but they also occur because of events like a crater lake dam break or heavy rain. We had two lahars at Ruapehu in 2007, one produced by a short explosive eruption below Crater Lake Te Wai ā-moe, and the other because the natural dam that holds the lake water in place failed. Unfortunately, this range of triggers means that they can occur with no warning. Thankfully, the very basic

SOMETHING DIFFERENT FOR YOU

action of moving up and out of a valley can save your life if you are in the wrong place at the wrong time.

The majority of fatalities from volcanic events that have occurred more than 15 km from the volcano are due to lahars. We know of 56,315 fatalities between 1500 and 2017 due to lahars, around 23,000 of these resulted from one event at Nevado del Ruiz in Colombia, where people had no warning to get out of the way. Lahars are a very real danger and stories from survivors are harrowing.

You can search “Ruapehu lahar hazards” online to see the areas where you should be more alert, along with advice on what to do, and there are plenty of videos that show how fast and dangerous lahars can be. They key is to not hesitate.

If something is off, get out of the valley to safety. You can always head back to enjoy your day if it is a false alarm, and you can feel good about yourself knowing that you can take action when needed.

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Commuter service planned

By Mary Anne Gill

A two-year bus trial to and from Hamilton is planned for Matangi and Tamahere commuters.

But it comes with a proviso. The public transport trial should not come at the expense of the communities’ school bus services.

A 12-seater bus, used on the Flex service in Hamilton, would be used for the trial.

Funding comes from Waikato District Council in the form of $200,000 a year from its roading budget.

Community representatives gave Waikato Regional Council, which is responsible for the region’s bus services, the go ahead in May to find preferred routes and last month settled on one.

That route would start and end at Te iti o Hauā Marae

on Tauwhare Road halfway between Matangi and Tauwhare.

Tamahere-Woodlands ward councillor Crystal Beavis said she attended the meetings where the regional council said the Ministry of Education had suggested any new public transport service might result in them withdrawing the school buses.

“This will be a time-limited

trial to test the benefit for the local community and what level of support it gets, so there’s no question that school bus services must not be disrupted.

“It was clear to me that the Waikato Regional Council staff accepted this responsibility and will work with the Ministry of Education to ensure it,” said Beavis.

Regional council Public Transport planner Katherine Simpson said it was early days but the response from community representatives had been positive.

“The proposed routes and timetables have been shared with the ministry for confirmation as to whether they will, in fact, withdraw their services since this trial will not be able to cater for all the students within this area,” she told the Regional Transport committee last week.

Simpson told The News there was a risk.

“We have been working quite closely to ensure that doesn’t happen.”

She was reluctant to release timetable or route details but did say it would be a direct service into Hamilton.

Public transport users from Tamahere and Matangi can

now take the Cambridge regional bus service into Hamilton. At Tamahere it stops northbound outside Tamahere Model Country School, and southbound on the Expressway off ramp before the Tauwhare Road turn off.

While not an official ‘park n ride’, The News understands some people use it in that way.

Service Delivery acting general manager Megan May said her district council helped the regional council connect with its communities.

The council’s funding only covered operational costs for the 12-seater and a driver. It did not cover bus stops or any permanent facilities.

Other Waikato communities in Raglan and North Waikato had also shown an interest in the smaller public transport options but TamahereMatangi was the most logical trial at this stage, said Simpson.

The only constraints would be around the 12-seater itself which is used as an on-demand rideshare service to and from the Hamilton CBD on Friday and Saturday nights.

It also operates seven days

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a week between 9.15am and 4pm to and from the Hamilton Transport Depot and Hamilton Airport.

Briefs…

Mayor Susan O’Regan has been appointed Waipā District Council’s representative on the Te Nehenehenui joint committee and Māori ward councillor Dale-Maree Morgan as her alternate. Te Nehenehenui is the newly formed Post-Settlement Governance Entity on behalf of Maniapoto. Representatives on the new merged committee – previously Ngā Wai o Waipā Co-Governance Forum and Te Nehenehenui Joint Committee - are from Waikato Regional, Ōtorohanga, Waitomo, Waikato and Waipā councils along with Maniapoto Māori Trust Board and Te Nehenehenui.

Crystal Beavis.

The 12-seater Flex bus will be used on the Matangi-Tamahere bus trial.

Photo: Supplied.

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Never, never, never give up

A plaque on my desk carries a quote which is the heading for this article.

An elderly Sir Winston Churchill was invited to give a speech to the pupils of the grammar school he had attended. Behind him lay mistakes and failures but many successes too. Churchill was a British statesman, soldier, and writer who served twice as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, notably during the Second World War, then again from 1951 to 1955.

“Never, never, never… give up.” That was his speech. While astonishing for its brevity, its impact endures.

Recently in Queenstown, a driver from a car rental company was dropping us to our hire vehicle. The young man explained he was a ski instructor. Sadly, being later in the season, (which had produced poor snowfalls), work on the slopes disappeared and he’d found alternative work driving. Hearing this grabbed my attention since when he had picked us up, this strange ‘random’ thought had entered my mind… this young Brit is somehow like Eddie the Eagle.

If you’re unfamiliar with ‘Eddie’, (real name Michael David Edwards, born

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5th December 1963), he’s an English ski jumper and Olympian who in 1988 became the first competitor to represent Great Britain in Olympic Ski Jumping. His passion for skiing developed at 13 years old after a school snow trip. As portrayed in a 2016 biographical film, he was never very good, often finishing last in competitions. Later on, having not made the grade as a downhill skier, he switched to ski jumping as there were no other British ski jumpers with whom to compete for a place.

Eddie had some disadvantages - he was heavier than other competitors, under his goggles he wore thick glasses for shortsightedness, which misted up at altitude — he lacked financial support for training. Nonetheless he managed to represent Great Britain at the 1987 World Championships in West Germany. His presence there qualified him as the sole British applicant for the 1988 Winter Olympics Ski Jump competition in Calgary. Though he finished last, his result was still good enough then to set a British record. That achievement stands with Eddie remaining a colourful celebrity, placing nowadays as Britain’s sixth best jumper ever.

Wanting to encourage our young driver, I told him he’d made me think of Eddie who, in spite of setbacks, persisted. Very surprised, he related how he treasures an ‘Eddie the Eagle’ skisweater featuring his childhood sporting hero… he’d was even nicknamed after Eddie. My words seemed to bring encouragement to this young man. Way too many people’s dreams and aspirations are ended by discouragement. Maybe you’ve had disappointments. Success is not the absence of failures. Disappointments can result from situations beyond our control… or from our own poor choices, but failures shouldn’t ever keep us down, or be allowed to define who we are.

My favourite uncle often said, “aim for the moon, at least you’ll clear the pine trees”.

I’m convinced there’s an added dimension here - it’s God’s promise to anyone who seeks Him, to help them accomplish things that are seemingly impossible.

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Learning to share the space

A narrow escape while riding on the Hamilton Road Cycleway prompted senior writer Mary Anne Gill to do some investigating into shared zones.

It was about 9.15am and I was cycling back into Cambridge along the Hamilton Road Cycleway.

Just before Grey Street I slowed down, as I tend to do before streets and driveways. Just as well I did because the driver of a concrete truck made no attempt to check whether anyone was coming either on the cycleway or the footpath.

He drove up Grey Street, over the coloured paving, the footpath and the cycleway to the Hamilton Road intersection, and waited. His truck took up the whole “shared” space while he waited for a gap in the traffic.

In the truck driver’s view, the shared zone meant he could do what he wanted, to him it was just a part of a normal road. In a hierarchical sense, he felt he had the right of way.

A shared zone is defined in the Land Transport (Road User) Rule 2004 as “a length of roadway intended to be used by pedestrians and vehicles”.

In shared zones, the needs and comfort of pedestrians (and in this instance cyclists) are paramount. People driving in shared zones are expected to act like guests, the rules say.

Waipā District Council Transportation manager Bryan Hudson is an expert on all things cycleway and shared zones.

“The driver should most definitely have reduced his or her speed and checked, but not necessarily come to a complete stop. Considerate and careful drivers will always use common sense and will always be aware of their surroundings, especially in an urban environment.”

It got me thinking: How would a youngster cycling to or from school or up

Te Awa River Ride detour

A section of Te Awa River Ride will be closed with a detour in place from early October 2023, while construction of a stormwater outlet takes place near Cambridge Road. The 400-metre compacted gravel detour around the work site should only add an extra five minutes to your ride or walk. Te Awa River Ride can still be accessed from Alpha Street in Cambridge and the Grassroots Trust Velodrome.

to the sports grounds understand the rules around shared zones along the stretch of cycleway with roads and driveways dotted in between?

Hudson does not necessarily agree we need more education around shared zones but did say the council’s road safety co-ordinator offers cycle skills’ training in schools. There is one coming up at Cambridge Middle School early next year.

And what about signs telling cyclists to slow down in case traffic is coming?

“No, it is best practice to do it the other way around – making the less vulnerable take greater responsibility. So, we ask drivers to slow down and look for cyclists. Saying that, it’s also important cyclists also keep their wits about them, that’s just common sense, and most cyclists are already very aware of vehicles. While path

users should have priority, they still need to exercise caution, and be ready to react.”

I recall several years ago when I was in Europe - travelling in Holland, France and Italy – that cars, cycles and pedestrians seemed to get on with each other in the city centres in a respectful way.

Shared zones are common there, less so here in New Zealand.

Hudson suggests pedestrians and cyclists on the Hamilton Road Cycleway should be watchful, and I agree with him, to a degree. But isn’t it time some of our drivers showed the same vigilance, the same respectfulness and courtesy as they do in Europe?

Have your say. While we do expect to hear some stories of disrespectful lycra-wearing cyclists, that’s not me!

• Email editor@goodlocal.nz

For more information on the detour and to keep up to date with the development, visit waipadc.govt.nz/cambridge-growth.

Stopping in the shared zone in this instance is allowed as the pedestrians are some way from the intersection.

The shared zone at the intersection of Grey Street and Hamilton Road Cycleway.

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Hamilton and surrounds

Wednesday 4 October 10am-12pm

Good News Community Centre (Te Rongopai Community Trust), 78 Breckons Avenue, Nawton

Plantings celebrated

More than 275ha of Waipā land has been “retired” as part of Waikato Regional Council conservation work.

The council says it has worked 341 landowners in the last year to retire 1726 hectares of land, plant 950,000 native trees and protect 137 kilometres of waterways in eight zones.

That includes, in Waipā, more than five kilometres of fencing, three kilometres of stream bank protection and planting more than 200,000 native plants, Waikato and West Coast Catchments Manager Grant Blackie, who presented a report with the regional figures acknowledge “the rich picture” of community partnerships the numbers represented.

“If you think about the individuals and the iwi groups and everyone we have worked with in the past year then the story is a lot richer than just a table of numbers, although it is still an impressive table of numbers,” he said.

He also noted the continued funding from the Ministry of Primary Industries’ Hill

Country Erosion Fund for the next four years.

“We’ve successfully obtained another $2.86 million to make it cheaper for landowners to do mitigation work targeting hill country erosion.”

Committee chair Robbie Cookson said the amount of work that landowners were doing to improve water quality in the region’s catchments was phenomenal.

The council’s Integrated Catchment Management directorate manages catchments in partnership with landowners to reduce soil erosion, flooding and the amount of sediment getting into waterways, and to improve water quality, river stability and river environments.

The amount of funding available to landowners depends on whether landowners are in an identified priority catchment or whether the council has secured additional funding for work programmes outside business as usual. It ranges from 35 per cent of costs to 80 per cent, depending on the type of work and funding available, and landowners are able to use their contribution as work in kind.

Time out in Cambridge

Cambridge’s town clock is playing up again, but it had nothing to do with daylight saving when clocks went forward an hour on Sunday morning.

A mechanical part became jammed last week, freezing the time at 11.54 - which just added to the daylight saving confusion for some residents.

A contractor fixed the problem on Monday.

The clock’s chimes have been turned off due to a sequencing issue. They will be fixed after refurbishment work begins next month.

A victim of cutting sattire

Cambridge project manager Jonathan Kay finds himself leading the body count in the Hamilton Playbox‘s production of the satirical thriller Popcorn.

Kay, who‘s real life centres on civil construction, also loves acting and most recently took the part of Harry in Playbox‘s 2021 production of Mamma Mia. In Popcorn he plays Karl Brezner - an assistant producer to play lead Arthur Van Resseghem as Hollywood movie maker Bruce Delamitri - and the first victim.

Does art influence reality? - That‘s the big question behind Popcorn, a production by Hamilton Playbox set to hit the stage next month.

Written by British playwright Ben Elton and first performed in Nottingham in 1996, Popcorn is a dark comedy which asks the basic question - is violence in society influenced by what people see on-screen or the other way around?.

For Hamilton Playbox director Lee Owens it‘s a production she has hankered to take-on since seeing the show live in London‘s Apollo Theatre in 1998.

“The premise behind

the play touches on reality TV as a whole and how some things we see as entertainment may influence how some people behave.

“It‘s about two murderers. The scary part is that it was written in the 1990s and it‘s still relevant today. It‘s really for mature audiences. There‘s violence, sexual activity and drugs. I‘ve left the language as it was written by Elton and it‘s pretty raw compared to anything Playbox has done recently.”

Playbox plans its shows two years ahead. Owens last directed Cosi fan Tutte in 2019 and was most recently in an acting role in Mamma Mia in 2022. In the interim she has acted as stage manager in other productions. She is on the Playbox committee and a member of the Riverlea Theatre board.

The nine-person cast was recruited from the Hamilton and Waipa areas with a good range of prospective cast members answering auditions in July, Owens says.

Popcorn is set in the Beverly Hills mansion of movie director Bruce Delamitri (Arthur Van Resseghem) who becomes an early victim of the villains

- the charming Wayne

Hudson (Jono Freebairn) and his creepy girlfriend ‚Scout‘ (Olivia Turner) - both psychopaths.

Delamitri is in the throes of a passionate introduction to Brooke Daniels (Anna Mulligan), a model and actress, when Wayne and Scout interrupt - but they want more than an

New speed limit signs

Motorists using a black spot intersection in Waipā are now seeing reduced speed limit signs there.

Between 2011 and 2021 there were five serious injury crashes and one fatality at the intersection of State Highway 3 and Raynes Road, which is used by thousands of motorists a day.

In August 2021 Kaipaki resident Sue Davies told The News of her own experience – her car was written off after being hit by a vehicle coming out of Raynes Rd. She called on Waka Kotahi to take action and welcomed announcements made in May this year.

Waka Kotahi has now installed traffic detectors and they send a signal to the road sign which shows a lower speed limit.

The system is called an Intersection Speed Zone and it will be in place until a roundabout, a safety platform and improved cycling facilities are installed there

“The Intersection Speed Zones detect when a vehicle is turning into or out of a side road and temporarily reduces the legal speed limit on SH3 from 80km/h to 60km/h,” regional manager of Infrastructure Delivery for the WaikatoBay of Plenty Jo Wilton said.

The signs were installed last week.

“People will be familiar with seeing Intersection Speed Zones around the region. The signs are installed at rural locations where there is a high risk of serious crashes involving people turning in or out of an intersection.

autograph from their screen idol. Wayne intends to use Bruce’s ‘art’ as justification for murder. At the end of it there is blood and a bodycount.

“‚There‘s a debate going on around society‘s perception of who is the villain and who is the hero,” Owens says.

“Reducing speeds through an intersection means that crashes are less likely to happen because people will have more time to react to mistakes and avoid collisions.

“By slowing oncoming traffic down, Intersection Speed Zones also reduce the risk of someone being killed or seriously injured if a crash does happen. A small change in speed can make a big difference to the outcome of a crash. Even when speed doesn’t cause the crash, it’s what will most likely determine whether someone is killed, injured, or walks away unharmed,” says Wilton.

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Jono Freebairn, left, plays the killer Wayne Hudson in Popcorn – and Jonathan Kay, as Karl Brezner, is one of his victims. Photo: Geoff Lewis

Our huge deficit

By Peter Nicholl

The data for New Zealand’s current account for the year ended June 2023 was released recently.

We had a current account deficit of $29.8 billion. That is 7.5 per cent of our gross domestic product. It is in relative terms one of the largest current account deficits in the world.

The one area of the current account that has improved over the last year is the services part of the trade account. In the year to June annual services exports were $23.8 billion while service imports were $29.9 billion, a deficit of $6.1 billion.

Encouragingly, this was an improvement of almost $2.5 billion over the previous year, due to a big turnaround in travel services.

As borders opened up, tourists started flowing again in big numbers both to and from New Zealand.

But the net flow was very much in our favour. If this hadn’t happened the current account figures would have been even more bleak.

To put the size of our current account deficit in context, our neighbour, Australia, which has some economic and trade pattern similarities to us, had a current account surplus over the last year.

A current account deficit indicates that a country is spending more than it is earning overseas.

This is often described by the international rating agencies, the IMF and most economic commentators as a country ‘living beyond its means’.

None of the ratings agencies have yet lowered our international credit rating but all three of them have publicly expressed concern about the deficit’s size and trend

and described it as the country’s key credit risk.

They will be watching its trend closely over the next year or so and if it doesn’t’ show improvement, a downgrade in our credit rating is highly likely.

New Zealand usually runs a deficit on what is called the primary income account, which is the amount overseas investors earn in New Zealand less the amount New Zealand investors earn overseas.

In the past, New Zealand has often offset this deficit with a healthy surplus on the goods part of the trade account. But in the year to June 2023, we had a deficit of $12.5 billion on this part of our current account too. That was larger than the deficit in the previous year.

The part of the current account that has usually been our strength is currently in poor shape – and getting worse.

This is happening at a time when economic growth is modest at best. This is usually a situation in which the current account position improves as we import less.

The current account is going to be a serious brake on the ability of the New Zealand economy to grow much at all in the future. This suggests that a key focus of economic policy in New Zealand should be encouragement for the export sector.

But I have scarcely heard the poor current account position of the country or the need to encourage the export sector mentioned during the current election campaign.

Whomever is in government after the election will be forced to look at it urgently and seriously as the problem is not going to go away. It could even get worse.

Honouring the sacrifices

By Jo Davies-Colley, Chair, Cambridge Community Board

In a week’s time I will have the honour and privilege of attending the opening of the New Zealand Liberation Museum – Te Arawhata in Le Quesnoy, France, on behalf of the Cambridge community.

The story of the liberation of Le Quesnoy is one that is well known in our community and indeed across New Zealand.

From artist and kaumatua Fred Graham’s memorial sculpture on Thornton Road, liberation images reflected in the stained glassed windows at St Andrew’s Church, then down past the cenotaph to Le Quesnoy place, our town reflects the bravery and sacrifice of our New Zealand soldiers when they liberated the small French town from German control on November 4, 1918.

The battle reflected the core Anzac values of courage, perseverance, and sacrifice and to this day, the relationship between Le Quesnoy and New Zealand is a strong one, made even more valuable by the Cambridge-Le Quesnoy sister city relationship.

The New Zealand Liberation Museum - Te Arawhata - will provide a permanent memorial to not only those brave New Zealand soldiers who liberated Le Quesnoy but all New Zealanders who fought in Europe and for our freedom in the first world war.

It will be a place to remember, connect and reflect and Weta Workshop’s expertise will mean the exhibitions themselves will be both interactive, innovative and powerfully emotive.

Waipā District Council’s financial commitment to the museum in 2018 means this museum is special to us all, the stories and memories and the connections are part

of our history as a town and a nation.

Community board look after sister city relationships and it is our intention during this three-year term to maintain and preserve the important connections between Cambridge, Le Quesnoy and Bihoro, Japan.

We are looking forward to hosting both French and Japanese delegations in November this year.

Board member Alana MacKay and the Le Quesnoy and Bihoro Sister City working groups have been planning two exciting and memorable programmes for both delegations that showcase the Waipā district.

Thank you to the Cambridge residents who have been helping us plan these visits, your knowledge and passion for each of these towns is invaluable.

Thanks also to those who will be welcoming our visitors into their homes as guests.

The French delegation will be here for our Armistice commemorations and we are looking forward to sharing this important and special day with them.

I look forward to sharing more of my experience in Le Quesnoy through the Cambridge News over the next weeks as this important memorial to New Zealand’s military history is opened and commemorated.

Murray, Chivasa in half marathon wins

This year’s Cambridge Half Marathon attracted more than 500 entries across all distances, a number described by organisers, the Cambridge Harriers and Athletic Club, as a great result in a year where the event did not double as the New Zealand Half Marathon Championships.

The Half Marathon, held as an annual fun run and walk across 10km, 5km, and a 2km kids’ race, was run in Cambridge last Sunday.

The half marathon race was won by Jack Murray from Horsham Downs in 1h 19m, with Ketina Chivasa from Glen Eden the first female home in 1h 35m.

Stand and deliver

The 10km race came produced a close finish featuring Cambridge Harriers club members Steve Rees-Jones and Will Taylor, with the more experienced Rees-Jones first over the line in 33.04, six seconds in front of Taylor.

Cambridge Harriers’ Lauren Shelley was first female across the line in 45.40, six second ahead of Helen Hall-King from Hamilton City Hawks.

The 5km races were won by Hamilton City Hawks’ and St Peter’s Cambridge athletes Jake Lomas and Boh Ritchie.

Winners in the 2km kids’ dash were Jack Lockwood and Evie Ball.

Natalie at the double

Cambridge teenager Natalie Young has opened her international goalscoring account for the New Zealand Under-16 women’s football team.

New Zealand played Fiji in the final of the Oceania women’s Under-16 championship in Tahiti after this edition went to press. The winner goes to the Dominican Republic for next year’s Fifa under 17 women’s World Cup.

Young grabbed two goals in three

appearances on the way to the final.

She opened her account in a 4-1 over Fiji, and was also on the scoreboard as the New Zealanders crushed Vanuatu 31-0.

The New Zealand side had earlier beaten Cook Islands 12-0 and reached the final with a 7-0 win over Tonga. That’s 54 goals in four games for the Leon Birnie coached side. Young, 15, is a Cambridge High School student on the books of Hamilton Wanderers.

Runners at the 5km start in Sunday’s Cambridge Half Marathon.

Photo: supplied

A race on the river from Cambridge to Hamilton attracted 300 paddlers on Sunday. They completed a 25km journey from Cambridge - or 11kms from The Narrows boat ramp - to reach the Grantham St boat ramp in Hamilton. Vessels included kayaks, stand up paddle boards, waka, ocean surf skis, club surf skis and surf boats. The fastest male time of 1h 31m was shared by Liam Lace and Gene Prato on ocean skis, and fastest women was Danika Mowlem in 1h 38m also on an ocean ski. There were also many noncompetitive paddlers in the cruise division, enjoying a day on the river. Competitors ranged in age from six to 80.

Tennis volunteer aces it

By Steph Bell-Jenkins

At 9am on Friday outside Cambridge Racquets Club’s main doors, Sheryl Carpenter reaches into a green plastic crate with both hands and pulls out two neon yellow tennis balls.

She gives each a firm squeeze, noting the give of rubber beneath her thumbs.

“If they yield too much they’re no good,” she says, dropping the balls, scrutinising their bounce and scooping them up again.

“These ones will be going to the pound for dogs to play with.”

Sorting used tennis balls is one of the many and varied tasks Sheryl carries out regularly as a volunteer for Cambridge Racquets Club.

She has never calculated how much time she puts in.

“I don’t know; I’ve never

estimated it,” she said.

“Probably most days I do something in one way or another, but it might not be very big. Maybe 10 hours a week of volunteer time? It’s hard to say.”

Sheryl was recently voted Volunteer of the Year at the Waikato and Thames Valley 2022-2023 Tennis Awards.

“I’m shocked and honoured, very honoured,” she said. “It’s encouraging. It makes you think people do notice the one or two things that you do. I’ve been a bit taken aback when people have said, ‘well done’, or given me a hug.”

Sheryl’s association with Cambridge Racquets Club stretches back to the 1960s, when her parents were members and she began playing junior squash and tennis.

“I remember playing in

The four tops

Cambridge Racquets Club was a big winner at this year’s Waikato and Thames Valley 2022-2023 Tennis Awards, scooping four of the eight categories.

Sheryl Carpenter was named Volunteer of the Year, while Coach of the Year went to Oskar Williams. Top Female Junior Player went to Annabel Chapman, who is the Waikato’s highest ranked junior girl. Taane Young won Most Improved Junior Player.

squash tournaments and people from everywhere came here,” she said. “Our open tournament was heaving with people and we always had a do on Saturday night with a band, dancing and music.”

She continued playing at the club until 1975, when she moved to Wellingon to work as a librarian. About 30 years later, she moved back to Cambridge and joined the club again in 2010.

“When I returned, I noticed the club honours board had not been updated for around seven years,” she said.

“So, along with fellow committee member Anne Spelchan, I enjoyed searching through old written club minutes and abandoned old trophies and digging deep into members’ memories to retrospectively complete and continue the honours board, which recalls many past members, players and volunteers – really the history of the club.”

She’s been maintaining the board ever since and her own name features on it as chair of the tennis committee in 2014 and 2015.

Sheryl has served on various club committees for the past nine years and chipped in with numerous other jobs, from helping with

fundraising and finding spot prizes for tournaments to volunteering at club events and having a hit around with new members.

“I like to be busy and I enjoy doing it,” she said.

“I guess it’s the satisfaction of seeing the club thrive and do well. It gives me pleasure to see the little kids doing their squash and tennis and the schools coming in and joining.”

Cambridge Racquets Club manager Suzie Halliday said Sheryl was always willing to lend a hand.

“She’ll come and tell me she’s just put some new posters up, or cleaned out the gutters, or tidied the kitchen,” she said.

“She’s a great ambassador for the club and she likes to see the kids here and the growing of the sport and the club.”

Sheryl still enjoys playing social tennis on Wednesday and Friday mornings and Tuesday afternoons. She said she loved that the club provided a “really great, safe environment for families and kids and older people”.

“I like to see this building being used and people saying ‘hi’ in the corridor and it being a home away from home,” she said.

Sheryl Carpenter, pictured after a game of morning tennis at Cambridge Racquets Club.

SHOWHOME OPEN TO VIEW

The first townhouse showhome is open to view at Ryman’s newly named Patrick Hogan Village in Cambridge. We currently have two and three bedroom townhouses available now.

Two bedroom townhouses exclusively priced from $770,000.

All offer spacious open plan living with contemporary kitchens and bathrooms, and your own private patio.

Plus, purchase any Ryman independent apartment or townhouse by 30 September 2023 and receive a $20,000 credit on settlement.* Imagine a new smart TV, an island escape or furniture for your new home. It’s yours to spend!

*Terms and conditions apply, visit rymanhealthcare.co.nz/ts&cs Call

23 Hugo Shaw Drive, Cambridge

Hockey success

By Steph Bell-Jenkins

Cambridge High School’s teacher in charge of hockey Glenys Bichan is thrilled with the school’s success this season.

The U18 boys’ team, coached by Cameron Bichan and Michael Atkin, made history in Wellington by competing at the elite Rankin Cup tournament for the first time.

The school gained entry to the competition after winning the Olympic Stick qualifying tournament in Hamilton last year.

Its players finished their domestic season prior to leaving for the Rankin Cup and narrowly missed out on winning the second division of the Waikato-Bay of Plenty A grade after losing the final 4-3 to Bethlehem College in Hamilton.

“The team achieved their goal of gaining re-entry into next year’s Rankin Cup, securing the wins needed to continue in the top echelon of New Zealand secondary school boys’ hockey,” Glenys said.

Meanwhile, the school’s top girls team went home with bronze medals from the Chicha Gilmer Cup in Auckland during secondary school tournament week.

“This was their first ever medal at a tier three tournament,” Glenys said. “Jackie Knobloch, their coach, did an outstanding job preparing these girls who have a great future ahead of them.”

The side played in division 1 of the Waikato A Grade competition for the second year running in 2023 and finished 5th.

The school’s U15 boys’ Gold team, coached by Mark Wood and Karen Hill, won Waikato Hockey Association’s U15 A division, winning their final against St

Peter’s Cambridge 2-0.

Earlier this year the side finished ninth at the Tanner Cup, an annual invitational tournament for country’s top U15 boys’ teams, where they were the only public coed school competing.

Wood and Hill also coached Cambridge High’s top junior girls’ team, which also made their division A final, losing 2-1 to Waikato Diocesan.

It was the third year in a row the side had made a Waikato final.

Also gaining top three placings this season were boys’ second XI, nd XI, who finished third in the U18 B grade, and the girlsthird team, third in the U18 C grade.

Glenys said a record number of players from the school had made Waikato and New Zealand representative teams this year.

Cambridge Tree Trust

www.treetrust.org.nz

NIWA has promised us a hot dry summer which is good for days at the beach, but not good for trees, especially young ones. But there is something you can do to help them get through –MULCH. But please don’t just dump a barrow load of mulch at the bottom of your tree and create a volcano, there’s science to this!

The best type of mulch is wood chip, bark nes, leaves or compost mixes. These will all decompose in time and improve soil structure and fertility for the tree. Do not use weed mat. The mulch needs to be of medium texture: if it is too ne it will become compacted and starve the roots of oxygen, if too coarse it will not maintain the water level. Begin by removing all grass and weeds from around the tree. Spread the mulch 5 – 10 cm deep, extending out about one metre from the trunk. If it is too thin the

weeds will rapidly invade, if too thick the water cannot penetrate. DO NOT ALLOW THE MULCH TO TOUCH THE BARK OF THE TREE. This is important to prevent fungi, beetles or borer from damaging the tree bark. If you want a neat outer edge, start by cutting a circle with a spade or edging tool rst, or you can create an attractive barrier using river stones. For a healthy, happy, fast-growing tree, do this every spring. You may still need to water it, but the mulch will help keep the moisture in for longer and the roots cooler.

Lily Cameron featured for Cambridge High’s top junior girls’ team.

Cambridge Tree Trust would like to thank Mitre 10 for their support for these monthly articles which are intended to raise interest and awareness of trees in Cambridge.

Advertorial

Kayaker’s secret battle

By Steph Bell-Jenkins

On the surface, the silver medal around Nick Collier’s neck represents a young kayaker near the top of his game, a historymaking athlete, a potential Olympic champion in the making.

But underneath that glossy narrative is a story of grit and determination – one of a serious injury, training 12 times a week, holding down a part time while doing full time study - and saving money by living out of a van.

And in June, just before leaving to spend three months on the European competition circuit, Collier, 20, made a pact with himself to beat bulimia nervosa.

The New Zealand Eating Disorders Clinic says Bulimia Nervosa is a serious and dangerous eating disorder characterised by eating large amounts of food in a relatively short amount of time, followed by extreme compensatory efforts to avoid gaining weight.

The late princess Diana, Jane Fonda, Elton John and Lady Gaga have all spoken of their struggles with the disorder.

“It was tricky,” Collier said. “I just dealt with it alone for a lot of it, which I wouldn’t recommend at all.”

The eating disorder developed after he broke his back in a kayaking accident last year, just six weeks before he was due to leave for Italy with the New Zealand U23 men’s kayak cross world

championship team.

The injury kept him out of his boat for six months.

“That brought on depression and bulimia, which came on from a mindset that since I wasn’t able to do exercise, anything I was eating was setting me back from the competition,” he said.

“It was kind of scary that I was able to hide it so well and I wondered who else was going through similar problems.”

Once he had healed from the compression fracture in his L2

vertebrae, Collier battled his way back to competitive fitness with support from his South Island based coach Josef Prochazka and began tackling bulimia.

“I made a pact with myself that when I was overseas I would change my ways and I did,” he said.

“I was really proud of myself.”

Originally from Alexandra in Central Otago, Collier moved to Cambridge last year after winning a Sir Edmund Hillary Scholarship to study at Waikato University.

He loves the town’s central location and proximity to two training bases – Okere Falls, near Rotorua, and Canoe Slalom New Zealand’s high performance training centre in Auckland.

“It’s also a high performance hub here and I just love how many people are outdoors being active,” he said. “I find it really special.”

Last month he paddled his way into New Zealand history books, winning silver in the U23 men’s kayak cross event at the junior and U23 Canoe Slalom World

Motorcycle Training Day

Championships in Krakow, Poland.

Formerly known as ‘extreme slalom’, kayak cross is a whitewater racing discipline, which Collier describes as “similar to BMX, but in kayaks”. It will feature at the Paris 2024 Olympics.

He is the first kiwi paddler to win a medal at the U23 world championships.

There was a brief flash of hope the achievement might be life changing, enabling him to access financial help.

“But unfortunately, due to the timing of High Performance Sport New Zealand’s funding cycle, the result still doesn‘t allow me to receive any funding or support.”

The athlete has been living in a van since the beginning of this year to save on rent. He is also in the second year of a Bachelor of Business degree majoring in economics and strategic management.

“It gets tough, especially on the grey and cold nights – and oh my goodness there were some cold nights on the lead up to my departure for Europe.”

He usually trains alone, juggling seven river sessions and five gym sessions a week with full time study and a part-time job as a kayak tour guide at The Boatshed Kayaks at Lake Karāpiro.

But all the sacrifices are worth it for the passionate paddler.

“I couldn’t see myself doing anything else - it’s all worth it, it really is.”

Cambridge kayaker Nick Collier in action at the 2023 ICF Junior and U23 Canoe Slalom World Championships in Poland last month.

Photo: Adam Pawlowski

Know your local barista

Banter With Amanda, Peter & Carley!!

Carley’s Kitchen is now in its second year of operation, and we are just loving the Cambridge life! We are almost smack, bang in the middle of the Victoria Street central. We were exceptionally lucky to secure Amanda Smythe – a well know barista in town. Pairing her wealth of coffee expertise and working with quality coffee; Allpress, it

has been the perfect match for our busy little café. We have now also installed Kaipaki milk – delicious farm fresh milk, just like it used to be.

Your coffee has just been lifted a notch but not the price!

Please call in – we love to chat over the coffees we pour.

Anyone looking for a great coffee served up by a smiling crew need look no further than Cambridge’s Deli on the Corner.

daily from 8am to 3pm. 48 Victoria Street Cambridge Ph 07 827 5370

News of The Lily Pad Café’s “rich chocolaty blend” of coffee has spread far and wide.

Nestled in an idyllic Kaipaki Rd setting, manager Jess Slater says travellers passing through from as far south as Taupo and as far North as Auckland regularly make the café a planned stop on their route.

“We all love coffee.” That statement from The Deli on the Corner manager Georjeana Boyle Hare tells you all you need to know. The Deli team con�nually strives to ensure consistent high quality with every cup they serve up. And all four baristas - Chekai, Delray, Tilly and Allysha – also all agree on what one of the key ingredients to the perfect coffee is – taste. The team regularly undergoes barista training to maintain the highest standards, and that level of

And, when it comes to their popular coffee, the Lily Pad team of about 14 - led by new owner Sandi Miller - ensures each cup features only the highest quality local ingredients.

Milk sourced from Kaipaki Dairies is just one of those.

And, as well as the coffee,

care is why customers love the Deli, and why they keep coming back.

“We get a lot of amazing feedback about how much people love our coffee,” Georjeana smiles. You may even find your next cuppa features a “special touch” - some crea�ve coffee ‘art’. With the coffee pale�e rapidly broadening these days, all customer needs are catered for - including ensuring several non-dairy milk op�ons are available.

Jess says part of what draws customers in - and keeps them coming back – is the “relaxed vibe” created by the mix of indoor and outdoor spaces in which to relax.

The inviting outdoor area is also dog friendly and with a new children’s playground, families love paying a visit.

1234 Kaipaki Rd Cambridge 3495 | 07 823 9134 | www.thelilypad.co.nz

If you’re looking for a team which is serious about crafting the perfect coffee, come and see us at St Kilda Cafe & Bistro today.

Our baristas work hard to constantly achieve a high standard of coffee and love the creativity they can bring to each and every cup.

Now under new management, and conveniently located right next to the St Kilda playground, why not bring the kids for a visit?

Or you could even ride out on the cycle way to make an afternoon of it. Whatever your dining or catering needs, St Kilda Cafe & Bistro is a fantastic place to visit for a whole host of occasions.

Be it an impromptu get together with friends over said coffee, a special family celebration or function, or an informal business meeting we also serve delicious contemporary New Zealand bistro fare. We look forward to seeing you for your next cuppa.

19 Kaniera Terrace Cambridge, 3493. Call us on 07-827 3993 to book a table!

Opening Hours: Mon-Tues 8.30am-2pm; Wed-Thurs 8.30am-9pm; Fri-Sat 8am-10pm; Sun 8am-9pm

MEET YOUR BARISTA: MEG

Meg can be found at our Cambridge store, serving up brews made from beautiful, complex Ozone coffee beans and freshly baked goods.

Meg has been working in the Cambridge store for a year and a half and her favourite coffee is an Americano with a dash of coconut milk.

Meg says her favourite thing about being a barista is being able to do what she loves everyday for people that appreciate it.

Pop in to store to see Meg, have a yarn, grab a delicious Ozone coffee and one of our beautiful baked breads or pastries.

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Boyds Asparagus Shop is now open

By Jeremy Smith

Cambridge’s Liam Weston wants to see those Aussies in a spin.

The 17-year-old headed to Sydney yesterday as part of the New Zealand U20 Ultimate Frisbee open team to take on their Australian counterparts – the Aussie Thunder - in a three-game series known as the U20s Ultimate Frisbee trans-Tasman Series.

He’s the only team member from Cambridge in the 21-strong squad – and with the first trans-Tasman encounter of the three games set for Saturday, Weston told The News his goal is to ensure he helps the team repeat the 3-0 “whitewash” it achieved the last time the two teams met.

Weston said the trans-Tasman rivalry has been happening since about 2010 – but it’s his first time playing in the series.

“There’s maybe a little bit of added pressure this time,” he said.

Ultimate frisbee, Weston said, is essentially like “American football played with frisbees”.

With seven players in a team on the field at any one time, players seek to score points by passing a frisbee to a teammate over the opposing team‘s goal line, or end zone.

The winners of the 100-minute games are the first team to score 15 points.

One point is scored for each catch in an end zone and half time takes place only when one team reaches eight points, “however long that takes”.

The fast-paced game, Weston said, is rapidly gaining popularity both around the world and here in New Zealand.

Perform well in Sydney, and potentially at stake for Weston – a Hamilton Boys’

High School student - is a spot on the New Zealand team for the World Junior Ultimate Championships (WJUC) in Birmingham in July next year.

Weston’s plate in life is full, and one could be forgiven for wondering how he manages to spin so many.

This is his second trip to Australia in just under three months – the first being for an entirely different reason, and sporting code.

Also a Waipā, and Waikato, football referee – and player - Weston attended the 2023 Keepup Kanga Cup in Canberra in July.

The week-long 2023 cup, the Southern Hemisphere’s largest international youth football tournament, drew nearly 300 teams from around Australia.

He was there to referee matches.

“It was great, I was the fourth official in the grand final, which was really cool, and I refereed the semi-final too.”

Additionally, Weston was named youth referee of the year - and most promising referee - at the Waikato Bay of Plenty Football Federation’s (WaiBop) 2023 end-ofseason awards.

Weston started playing football in Year 9 at 13 and frisbee initially only entered the fray when he went in search of a way to keep fit in the off season of football.

“At first I just thought, oh, I can use frisbee as a way to keep up my fitness with a bit of extra running around,” he said.

“Then, as I just kept going back, I kept loving it. It’s so fun.”

Aside from helping his New Zealand team down the Aussies, Weston said he would love it if he was one to catch what’s known in ultimate frisbee as a callahan - when a player throws their frisbee directly into their opponent’s end zone for an

immediate score without being touched by another player.

Weston, who was initially selected for the wider training squad for the New Zealand U20s trans-Tasman Series following a training camp at St Peter’s Cambridge earlier this year, thought just making that training squad was “already amazing”.

So, describing his elation when named in the New Zealand U20 Ultimate Frisbee open team for Sydney a few weeks ago was difficult, he said.

“I was so excited.”

Here at home, Weston hones his frisbee skills playing for Hammertron Ultimate – an ultimate frisbee team in Hamilton.

Coached by Auckland’s Warren Buckingham, the New Zealand U20 Ultimate Frisbee open team has two training days planned ahead of game one of the trans-Tasman Series this weekend.

Cambridge 145 Racecourse Road

3 3 1 2

This stunning lifestyle property o ers a spacious and comfortable living environment, perfect for those seeking a peaceful and serene retreat. With three bedrooms, including an ensuite, and a total of three toilets, this property provides ample space for a growing family or those who enjoy hosting guests. The open-plan design creates a seamless flow between the living, dining, and kitchen areas, making it ideal for entertaining. The property boasts a generous land area of 4508 sqm, providing plenty of room for outdoor activities.

Taupiri 530a Tenfoot Road

0.8ha

We are delighted to present to you three truly exceptional rural sections. Each expansive section spans across a generous 0.8 hectares, o ering an unparalleled canvas for your bespoke country abode. With scenic vistas surrounding these blocks, every corner is designed to delight your senses. Nestled amidst the captivating beauty of the rural countryside, these sections boast breathtaking views that can only be found in our beloved country. Imagine waking up to the melodious chirping of the birds, spending the day amidst nature, and retiring to the night with a sky full of stars. Sounds idyllic, doesn’t it? Call Kevin or Gary today for more information.

For Sale $1,490,000

View by appointment or scheduled open day www.harcourts.co.nz/CB6337

Gary Stokes

M 021 351 112

Bevan Higgins M 027 471 2424

For Sale $650,000 View by appointment www.harcourts.co.nz/CB6285

Gary Stokes

M 021 351 112

Kevin Deane

M 021 970 902

Tamahere 396A Bruntwood Road

3 2 2 2

a gorgeous sunny aspect over much of the property and is all set for quality family living. Call Kevin or Mark today to arrange your viewing!

Kevin Deane M 021 970 902

Mark Ingram

M 027 495 5941

A fairer commission rate of 2.8% to first $300,000 then 1.8% on balance + gst

The Work Is Done - Low Maintenance

- Bright sunny décor and many new chattels throughout giving you that feeling of security and warmth.

- Located off the road on Carlyle Street, number 63A gives you a great location, low maintenance brick and enough section for your children and/or pets.

- Features include: ultra fast fibre, new 177L hot water cylinder, new LED lights, new rangehood, new carpet, new curtains, new shower and vanity, internal access garage.

First Time To The Market

Auction

OPEN HOMES SAT & SUN 11.00 - 11.30AM

93 Thornton Road, Cambridge

- Location, Location, Location - Renovate or Remove?

- Views over Karapiro stream gully back to Carters Flat and to the Maungakawa Hills on a 2042m² (more or less) section make this property a must see for renovators, developers, land bankers and families alike.

- A 1967ish contemporary 4 bedroom home with basement double garage, large separate workshop and a location worth bottling. Auction (unless sold prior) 4th October 2023, 12.00pm

Maestro on Marlowe - Family Fun Calls

$1,169,000

OPEN HOME SUNDAY 11.00 - 11.30AM

15 Marlowe Drive, Leamington

- Spacious living areas link splendidly with each other – generous separate lounge, 2nd family sitting room, modern kitchen and dedicated dining area flow to a covered outdoor entertainment area (pizza oven) and roll down blinds.

- Four bedrooms in total; one tremendous sized bedroom with balcony access which could be rumpus – so, so light; the large master bedroom with ensuite, walk-in robe & outlook over trees.

- A spot on the landing that could be used for an office desk.

Comfort, Privacy & Convenience

Plus FREE, tailor-made marketing worth $2,500+ 4+ 2 2

- Step into an inviting open-plan living area that leads to a sunny north-facing patio, perfect for hosting barbecues and gatherings.

- The recently modernised bathroom and ensuite adds contemporary style and sophistication.

- The ergonomic kitchen offers a view over the patio. Enjoy the benefits of infinity gas hot water and cook top.

- If you are looking to downsize, first home buyer or investor – your search could be over!

Why Settle For Less - Go For The Best!

A fairer commission rate of 2.8% to first $300,000 then 1.8% on balance + gst

Plus FREE, tailor-made marketing worth $2,500+

Best Views In St Kilda - Hamptons Inspired

- Arguably the best lifestyle can be enjoyed in the outstanding Hampton - popular 3 bedroom stand-alone in Cambridge Oaks.

- Fabulous central spacious 3 bedroom sun-drenched home on offer – master bedroom with generous sized ensuite, open plan living design with raked ceilings adding to sense of space with added bonus of a sunny carpeted conservatory.

- Beautifully designed kitchen - modern and functional with soft closing drawers and granite benchtop.

Comfort, Privacy & Convenience

Auction

OPEN HOMES SAT & SUN 12.00 - 12.30PM

69 Baxter Michael Cres, St Kilda

- Capacious residence, constructed by Downey Designer Homes of 286m²(more or less) offers a flawless living experience on a remarkably low-maintenance section of 1152m² (more or less).

- Kitchen is a haven with a hidden scullery & floor-to-ceiling window bathing this sociable hub of the open plan living in natural light.

- Alfresco dining under the sheltered portico while a secondary barbecue courtyard offers yet another inviting option.

Auction (unless sold prior) 4th October 2023, 12.00pm

Brighten Your Day On Grey

Deadline Sale

OPEN HOMES SAT & SUN 12.00 - 12.30PM

24 Thompson Street, Leamington

4+ 2 2

- Extensively refurbished 50’s home. You’ll immediately appreciate the thoughtfully designed and spacious 180m² (more or less) floor layout.

- On the lower level, you’ll find a rumpus room, an additional bedroom, a toilet, a convenient storage cupboard, and a separate laundry.

- A master bedroom with an ensuite and walk-through wardrobe.

- Fully fenced section making it safe for 2 or 4 legged family members.

Deadline Sale (unless sold prior) 19th October, 4pm

- Presenting a rare opportunity to acquire a pristine brick residence.

- Meticulously maintained throughout its lifetime, retrofitted with double glazing throughout all living spaces and master bedroom.

- Freshly painted interior, and boasts undeniable street appeal.

- Generously proportioned bedrooms, master with ensuite and sizeable walk-in-robe.

- Ideally situated within a convenient walking distance to town. Auction (unless sold prior) 4th October 2023, 12.00pm

Lakewood Luxe Living

- Substantial and luxurious near new 3 bedroom townhouse –offers easy living, low maintenance over 3 levels and is located in a sought after position whilst ideally situated privately.

- Ground floor-double garage, laundry & guest bedroom with ensuite.

- Upstairs-open plan living is bright, benefiting from natural light through floor to ceiling windows. Designer kitchen is the heart of the home.

- Top level-master bedroom/another spacious bedroom with ensuites.

Unique in Pukekura - Mouthwatering Style

Negotiation

OPEN HOME SUNDAY 2.00 - 2.30PM

56 Whare Marama Drive, Pukekura

- A sensational designer home complimented with a super spacious, fully consented self-contained unit.

- Another Davies Homes expression of style, quality and practical brilliance is obvious.

- The clever breezeway connection, high stud open plan living, superior chattels, master suite plus, 7m x 7m garage and additional single garage all compliment executive living.

- Master Class!

Designed For Guest Stay - Pukekura

Negotiation

OPEN HOME SUNDAY 2.00 - 2.30PM

43 Seachange Drive, Pukekura

- Urban Homes residence situated perfectly for the enjoyment of a north facing aspect on a 2587m² (more or less) section.

- Light and stylish open plan living area with polished concrete floor; Hostess kitchen – stone benchtop, hidden walk-in pantry, Blum soft close drawers, gas cooktop.

- Clever floor plan which offers privatisation of master suite from the guest wing; a comforting separate lounge positioned to use by guests or family.

In A Class Of It’s Own

Negotiation

A fairer commission rate of 2.8% to first $300,000 then 1.8% on balance + gst Plus FREE, tailor-made marketing worth $2,500+ 4+ 2 2

- Master Piece Home built to exemplary standards reflects a thoughtful north facing aspect on a 2512m² (more or less) section.

- Spacious, linked living areas include lounge and formal dining, sitting room around the wood burner fireplace, a third casual lounge/ large office/ playroom.

- A family three bedroom wing is serviced by two ensuites; the guest wing or teenager end of two double bedrooms also sports an ensuite (dual) and powder room for guests.

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Concept planning for Ōhaupō hub

By Jeremy Smith

Growing use of the Ōhaupō Hub has prompted discussions about further development of the site.

It’s a move the trust which oversees the Forkert Road facility says reflects community feedback it has received, and one it hopes will ultimately “bring the community together” even further.

The hub opened in 2020, and at the latest meeting of the Pirongia Ward Committee the Ōhaupō Community Sport and Recreation Centre Trust applied for a $10,000 discretionary fund grant to create a master concept plan as the organisation seeks to develop a bare paddock at Memorial Park, Ōhaupō.

The eight-person trust leases the land on which the hubhome to Ōhaupō Rugby Sports Club as well as community use spaces – sits from Waipā District Council.

One of the main community users is Kaipaki Bible Church, which meets at the hub on Sundays.

The trust, made up of four community representatives and four Ōhaupō Rugby Sports Club representatives, received $2000 towards the process of developing that master plan following the ward committee’s grants discussions.

Trust chair Debbie Glasson told The News the lease includes the paddock on the corner of Sandes St and Forkert Rd. The Ōhaupō community had voiced its needs for additional activities at the site.

In its application for a discretionary funds grant, the trust listed work on the nearby dog walking area, a mountain bike track, additional car parking spaces, safer road access and additional native planting as initiatives the trust would look at including in the master plan.

A fenced dog park could be accommodated in the paddock, the document stated. An additional road entrance is required to link the Forkert Rd entrance with a new one on Sandes St.

Discussions about a possible mountain bike track - initially slated to cost about $55,000 - had stemmed from young riders in the community having no such facilities available anywhere in the Ōhaupō community, the application said.

Glasson described the track as a “cool edition” if it went ahead, while trust member Ron Currie - present when The News visited the hub - added it was amazing how much a something like that would mean to riders in the community.

The trust’s application to the committee said both parking and road access were becoming an issue, particularly on busy sports days held at the hub.

“I suppose what it comes down to is that there is already a broad usage and that’s wonderful,” Glasson said.

“If you drive past here on a day when the sports club and the church are both here, you’ll see how well it is used. It’s pretty full.”

But that made parking “challenging” at times, she said.

Glasson added she felt increasing the number of parking spaces was a key area which would ultimately help overall usage at the hub grow in the future.

It was too early to discuss overall costs or time frames. Glasson said the trust would be astute about ensuring a feasibility study, and public consultation process regarding what the Ōhaupō community felt was best for the space, occurred before any work was undertaken.

“In the grand scheme of things what these discussions indicate is that already in the three years we’ve been open the facility has fast become a hub which is in demand, as was intended.

“Growth is happening in Ōhaupō - lots of new families are coming to town – so on that front, it’s really exciting when you consider what’s possible here at the hub in the future,” she said.

Ōhaupō Community Sport and Recreation Centre Trust trustee Ron Currie, left, with trust chair Debbie Glasson outside the Ōhaupō Hub.

ARMSTRONG, Heather –

Passed away peacefully in her sleep at Resthaven on Vogel on Sunday, 24th September 2023, aged 79 years. Dearly loved daughter of the late Molly & Alfred. Much loved sister and sister in-law to Donald & Li-min, Noel & Raak, Ian, and aunty to her many nephews and nieces. At Heather's request a private farewell has taken place. All communications to the Armstrong Family, c/3 Hallys Lane, Cambridge 3434.

FARIS, Eda Margaret (nee Pilotto) – Our beloved mum, born 28 December 1941, died 19 September 2023 in Dunedin. Your beautiful, kind spirit will be greatly missed. Dearly loved wife of the late Bryan. Beloved mother of Paul and Fiona, and mother-in-law to Monique. Adored Nana Eda to Joe and Eloise. A private farewell has been held. Please send communications to the Faris Family c/- 3 Kilgour Street, Roslyn, Dunedin.

Family Notices

Call Janine 027 287 0005

JORY, Laurine Jenny –

Passed away peacefully on Friday, 22nd September 2023 at Oakdale, Cambridge.

Dearly loved wife of the late Garnet Jory. Loved mother and mother-in-law of elder daughter Jennie and Michael (deceased) Osborn and the late Suzanne and Michael Hillman. Loved grandmother. A service to celebrate Laurine’s life will be held at Trinity St Paul's Union Parish of Cambridge, 43 Queen Street, Cambridge on Friday, 29th of September 2023 at 11:00am followed by burial at Hautapu Cemetery. All communications to the Jory Family c/- 3 Hallys Lane, Cambridge 3434.

MAY, Samuel Thomas, (Tom) – Passed away peacefully on Saturday, 23rd September 2023. Aged 92 years. A celebration of Tom's life will be held at St Andrews Anglican Church, Hamilton Road, Cambridge, on Friday, 29th September 2023 at 10:30am, followed by the burial at the Hautapu Public Cemetery. All communications to the May Family, c/- 3 Hallys Lane, Cambridge 3434.

WOOD, Beryl June –

Passed away at Waikato Hospital surrounded by family on Monday, 25th September 2023. Aged 87 years. Loved wife of the late Graham. Dearly loved mother and mother-in-law to Diane, Gaylene & Chris and Linda & John. Adored nana to Michael, Dean, Jason, Kelly, Sean and loved by all her great-grandchildren. A private farewell has taken place. All communications to the Wood Family, c/- 3 Hallys Lane, Cambridge 3434.

MAUNGATAUTARI ECOLOGICAL ISLAND TRUST ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

No�ce is hereby given that the Trust’s Annual General Mee�ng is to be held on Tuesday 17th October 2023 in Te Manu Korokii Profile Group Educa�on Centre at Sanctuary Mountain Maungatautari, 99 Tari Road, Pukeatua commencing at 3.30pm. A�endees are invited to join the Trustees for a�ernoon tea (from 3.00pm) prior to the start of the mee�ng. Enquiries by email to: secretary@maungatrust.org

Please RSVP via the QR code.

Section 101, Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act 2012

PUBLIC NOTICE

Of an application for On Licence Seakraft Trading Limited, 48 Terry Came Drive, Cambridge, has made application to the Waipa District Licensing Committee for the issue of a onlicence in respect of the premises at 82 Duke Street, Cambridge known as Hong Kong Date.

The general nature of the existing business to be conducted under the licence is restaurant. The days on which and the hours during which alcohol is sold under the licence are: Monday to Sunday 11.00am to 10.00pm.

The application may be inspected during ordinary office hours at the office of the Waipa District Licensing Committee, 101 Bank Street, Te Awamutu or 23 Wilson Street, Cambridge.

Any person who is entitled to object and who wishes to object to the issue of the licence may, not later than 25 working days after the date of the publication of this notice, file a notice in writing of the objection with the Secretary of the District Licensing Committee at: Waipa District Council, Private Bag 2402, Te Awamutu 3840.

No objection to the issue of a renewal licence may be made in relation to a matter other than a matter specified in section 105 of the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act 2012.

This is the second publication of this notice. This notice was first published on September 21, 2023

Section 101, Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act 2012

PUBLIC NOTICE

Of an application for On Licence

4 Desais Limited, 132 Bryant Road, St Andrews, Hamilton 3200, has made application to the Waipa District Licensing Committee for the issue of a onlicence in respect of the premises at 72 Alpha Street, Cambridge known as Stables on Alpha

The general nature of the business to be conducted under the licence is tavern. The days on which and the hours during which alcohol is sold under the licence are: Monday to Sunday. Inside: 9am-2am (the following day). Outside: 9am-11pm.

The application may be inspected during ordinary office hours at the office of the Waipa District Licensing Committee, 101 Bank Street, Te Awamutu or 23 Wilson Street, Cambridge.

Any person who is entitled to object and who wishes to object to the issue of the licence may, not later than 25 working days after the date of the publication of this notice, file a notice in writing of the objection with the Secretary of the District Licensing Committee at: Waipa District Council, Private Bag 2402, Te Awamutu 3840.

No objection to the issue of a renewal licence may be made in relation to a matter other than a matter specified in section 105 of the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act 2012.

This is the second publication of this notice. This notice was first published on September 21, 2023. Looking

job?

FITTER/WELDER AND GENERAL LABOUR ROLES

FITTER/WELDER AND GENERAL LABOUR ROLES

Te Kura o Ngā Purapura o Te Aroha

We are a busy engineering company with a well equipped workshop, working in the Mining, Quarry and Transport Industries.

We are a busy engineering company with a well equipped workshop, working in the Mining, Quarry and Transport Industries.

• Reliable and punctual

• Reliable and punctual

Kaiāwhina/ Associate Teacher Part-time (30 hours per week) Te Awamutu:

• Physically fit

• Physically fit

• Strong health and safety awareness

• Strong health and safety awareness

• Quality focus and attention to detail

• Quality focus and attention to detail

• Ability to work in a team environment

• Ability to work in a team environment

• Must pass a Drug & Alcohol test Apprenticeship opportunity exists for the right candidate

• Must pass a Drug & Alcohol test Apprenticeship opportunity exists for the right candidate

He tūranga e wātea ana ki te Wharekura o Ngā Purapura o Te Aroha. E kimi ana mātou i tētehi Kaiāwhina mō te kura, e mōhio ana ki ngā mahi whakaako tamariki. Me ū te kaitono ki te reo māori me ōna tikanga. Me matua mōhio hoki te kaitono ki ngā mahi whakahaere i te akomanga, me ngākaunui hoki ki ngā mahi whakaako tamariki. E whakapono ana mātou, he taonga te tamaiti, ko rātou hoki te pūtake o tā mātou kaupapa.

Please email your CV to: gray.construction@xtra.co.nz or phone 021 964 187

Please email your CV to: gray.construction@xtra.co.nz or phone 021 964 187

Board Trustee – Voluntary position

Cambridge Town Hall Community Trust Waipa

The Cambridge Town Hall Community Trust is an incorporated society and registered charity established in April 2021 to restore and activate the Cambridge Town Hall for the bene t of Waipā communities. The Trust has been tasked with managing, reactivating, and rejuvenating the Cambridge Town Hall and its environs by Waipā District Council.

The vision of the Trust is to restore, provide and activate the Cambridge Town Hall for the bene t of present and future generations. The Trust’s intention is that mana whenua and diverse urban and rural communities will come along with them on the journey to shaping the Cambridge Town Hall’s nature, content, and focus, throughout the next 50 years. In line with the heritage importance of the building, the quality and nature of community events and programming will be leading edge, and of national signi cance.

The Cambridge Town Hall Community Trust comprises six voluntary trustees, including the Chair and Deputy Chair, with the opportunity now available for up to two new Trustees to join the board in a voluntary capacity.

Board Meetings are currently held fortnightly on a Tuesday evening from 7pm – 9pm. Board members are allocated to a board sub-committee that meet separately and are involved operationally based on their area of skills and interests. The term of o ce for a Trustee is three years.

All Trustees need to demonstrate a passion for Cambridge and the potential of Whare tapere oo Te Oko Horoi. They need the following skills and knowledge:

• An understanding and experience of the role of governance of a charitable trust.

• The ability to read and understand nancial statements, budgets and reports.

• The ability to think strategically.

In selecting Trustees, to enable the Board to ensure a composition of diverse skills, experience and networks, we will consider the following priorities:

• Mana whenua/iwi – involvement in and understanding of the cultural importance of Whare tapere oo Te Oko Horoi.

• Venue Development and Management – an understanding and previous experience or involvement with venue management or a large building project.

• Capital fundraising/Philanthropic experience –ideally with hands on experience and local networks to support this activity.

• Legal and Charitable Trust Governance knowledge, experience and capability is bene cial.

The Cambridge Town Hall Community Trust welcomes applications from those looking to develop their governance and Board experience as well as those who have held similar roles in the past.

To register your interest, please apply with a Cover Letter outlining your reasons for your interest and your CV, either via the link or email your interest to linley@gprl.co.nz

The closing date for expressions of interest is Sunday 15th October 2023.

Ka kati tēnei tono hei te 08 o Oketopa, 2023 Tukua tō Tātai Oranga (CV) ki te Tumuaki: tari@npota.school.nz

Tukua mai mā te poutāpeta rānei ki:

Attention:

Te Wharekura o Ngā Purapura o Te Aroha. Enquiries 021 225 7577

Northern Health School

Waikato South Unit

Admin support person

During school term time only.

Start date by negotiation – by Term 1 2024

Northern Health School is one of three regional health schools that support students who are currently unable to attend their regular school due to ill health.

The successful person must possess a high degree of empathy and enjoy working with young people who are too unwell to attend their regular school due to mental or physical illness.

Experience working with primary and secondary aged students an advantage.

Locations/days required:

• Cambridge based

• Approx. 10 hours per week negotiable

A full clean New Zealand driving licence essential. Please visit www.nhs.school.nz for further details and to apply online by 05 October 2023

Northern Health School

Waikato South Unit

Teacher Aide

During school term time only.

Start date by negotiation – by Term 1 2024

Northern Health School is one of three regional health schools that support students who are currently unable to attend their regular school due to ill health.

The successful person must possess a high degree of empathy and enjoy working with young people who are too unwell to attend their regular school due to mental or physical illness.

Experience working with primary and secondary aged students an advantage.

Locations/days required:

• Cambridge based (Possible travel to Morrinsville and Matamata when students require a teacher aide)

• 19 hours between Monday – Friday

8.30 am – 3.30 pm negotiable

A full clean New Zealand driving licence essential. Please visit www.nhs.school.nz for further details and to apply online by 05 October 2023