King Country
O’Brien returns to Te Wananga
By Chris Gardner
Evie O’Brien is returning to Te Wānanga o Aotearoa as kaiwhakatere chief executive after 10 years.
O’Brien will be welcomed later this month, after leaving her role in 2014 as acting Kaihautū National Delivery which she had held for two years, having previously worked as regional manager Tāmaki/Te Tai Tokerau for three years.
Current chief executive Nepia Winiata will retire next month after 15 years’ service.
O’Brien is rejoining the organisation, whose head office is in Factory Road, Te Awamutu, after spending nearly four years as executive director of the University of Oxford based Atlantic Institute: Rhodes Trust, where she was focussed on addressing systematic causes of inequity. She spent the previous two years, from 2018 to 2020, as programme
director at the institute.
“I loved working at Te Wānanga o Aotearoa and look forward to bringing everything I have learned during my time with the Atlantic Institute back home,” O’Brien said in a statement.
“Being immersed in a kaupapa Māori organisation again after several years away is something I’m excited about. I see this role as an incredible opportunity to build on the successes of the past and to serve and give back to our whānau in recognition of all the support and opportunities I have had over the years, while contributing to better educational outcomes for our people.”
O’Brien sees herself as an experienced leader with a demonstrated history of working in the higher education sector and social justice.
She says, on her LinkedIn profile, that she is, skilled in organisational change and culture, coaching, lecturing,
higher education leadership, curriculum development, and public speaking. She has a Master of Business Administration from The University of Waikato.
“Evie’s extensive experience in senior leadership roles across the tertiary education sector, her deep understanding of and strong relationships within our organisation, and her clear passion and commitment to whānau transformation through education, gave her the leading edge,” said Te Wānanga o Aotearoa council chair Vanessa Eparaima.
O’Brien will work alongside Winiata to ensure a smooth transition before his farewell on February 13.
“We look forward to welcoming Evie back to our whānau, this time as our chief executive. We have a strong vibrant future before us, and we are excited by the added momentum and perspective Evie’s skills and experience will bring,” said Eparaima.
New trustees named
Sarah Ulmer, Mike Garrett, Glenda Taituha-Toka and Ken Williamson have joined Trust Waikato as board members.
The trust is one of a dozen community trusts in the country. It was established in 1988 to manage shares in Trust Bank Waikato and has made almost $300 million in grants since 1996 when the shares were sold and an investment portfolio established.
Associate Finance minister Shane Jones, announcing the appointments, also confirmed the re-appointment of Metua Tangaroa-Daniel-Malietoa.
The appointments follow the announcement last month that Janise Hine-kapetiu Eketone had succeeded
chair Vicky McLennan and her deputy would be Chris Flatt.
Taituha-Toka, from Piopio, sits on the Waikato-Tainui executive.
Flatt and Ulmer are both Waipā based - they live in Cambridge.
Eketone is a former Maniapoto Māori Trust Board chief executive.
“I am delighted to welcome our four new trustees and the re-appointment of a current trustee to the Trust Waikato Board,” she said.
Jones said the trustees collectively bring “expertise in education, business, healthcare, community services, marketing, sports, governance, law, environmental protection, grant allocation, and community development to the trusts”.
Rangimahora Reddy’s two decades of work in the Māori health and wellbeing field was acknowledged with a King’s Service medal in the New Year Honours list.
Today on Page 2 we acknowledge five community stalwarts with King Country connections who were named in the honours list.
Also inside today we report on the clearing of a track on the Te Araroa Trail, significant road works in Te Kūiti – and unveil two new columnists.
Being immersed in a kaupapa Māori organisation is an exciting prospect for Evie O’Brien.
Glenda Taituha-Toka
Rangimahora Reddy
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Our honourable mentions
By Mary Anne Gill
Two southern King Country residents were honoured in the New Year Honours’ List.
Long-serving health professional Paul Malpass of Taumarunui is now a member of the New Zealand Order of Merit and Retaruke farmer and conservationist Richard Steele received a King’s Service Medal.
Others with King Country connections –Sally Davies, Rangimahora Reddy and Paula Baker - were also on the list.
Malpass was a specialist general surgeon and Public Health physician before his retirement as clinical director at Taupō Hospital in 2017.
For more than 45 years he served on district health boards, government agencies and health accreditation bodies. His career began as a general surgeon with the Royal Air Force in 1972 and was then surgeon superintendent at Taumarunui Hospital from 1976 until 1992 attracting national attention in the late 1980s for its innovative “get a hip, come to Taumarunui” campaign.
At the time there were long waiting lists for hip replacements, so he and fellow surgeon David Hay plugged the gap from Taumarunui.
His passion for rural health saw him serve on various Waikato District Health Board committees and the Consumer Council.
Malpass now has an active interest in painting and while he considers himself an amateur, he has sold several acrylic paintings, mainly local landscapes, as well as numbered prints and cards.
Steele has supported his rural community of Ruapehu and Whanganui for more than 40 years.
He established and was the inaugural Ruapehu Federated Farmers president in 1990 becoming an advocate for farmers during the bovine TB outbreaks to have compensation for loss of cattle.
In 2008 he helped form the Rural Support Trust to provide mental wellbeing support during a drought and provide support and advice around several issues, including
managing finances.
He is a life member of the Friends of the Whanganui River Group and drawing from his farming experiences in the Kaitieke Vally, he has written four novels including the best-seller ‘Ghosts in the Valley.’
He and wife Rachel are still on the family farm, but they lease it to son Dan who runs Blue Duck Station, a tourism and family business with help from his father who looks after the jetboat part of the business.
“I still do cases for the rural support trust, but am otherwise off the radar, as one should be, you may have noticed a few too many older people in politics these days,” he tells The News.
“We have had a good innings though, and every day continues to be a pleasure and an adventure.”
Scottish born Sally Davies, who grew up in Mapiu and attended Te Kūiti High School but now lives in Te Awamutu, has a KSM for her services to health and hockey.
Davies has volunteered at Te Awamutu Sports Hockey Club since 1990 as a coach and served as the inaugural president until 2007.
Her citation says she was instrumental in establishing hockey under the Te Awamutu Sports banner upon the club’s establishment and is still coaching a reserve grade side.
She is a life member of Te Awamutu Sports and Waikato Hockey and has received the New Zealand Hockey Service Award.
As a practice nurse at Te Awamutu Medical Centre, she became one of the first nurses in New Zealand to specialise in diabetes management and retired last month after 47 years with the practice vowing to play more golf, join a Mahjong group, spend more time in the garden and continue coaching hockey.
Rangimahora Reddy (Ngāti Raukawa, Ngāti Maniapoto, Waikato, Ngāti Rangiwewehi me Rangitāne) has dedicated more than 20 years to Māori health and wellbeing and also got a KSM.
Reddy, originally from Himatangi, has been chief executive of Rauawaawa Kaumātua Charitable Trust (Rauawaawa) since 2010. It is a culturally focused charity providing health and wellbeing, housing, welfare, education and recreational services for kaumātua.
During her leadership, Rauawaawa pioneered kaumātua-centred programmes, including national and regional wellbeing events, commenced the revitalisation of Rauawaawa’s Te Puna o Te Ora facility into New Zealand’s first dementia and agefriendly, kaumātua-led and digitally enabled, community hub.
Paula Baker of Tamahere gets an MNZM for her services to health governance and the community. She recently took up a new role at Waihikurangi Trust, the charitable arm of Ngāti Maniapoto’s post-settlement governance entity Te Nehenehenui.
“I just felt that I could bring some different networks and contacts through the table with all the different organisations I know in health and knowing the great need in health, I felt that I could make a big contribution to a Māori organisation like Waihikurangi,” says Baker on why she applied to become a trustee. The citation singled out her involvement with Braemar Charitable Trust where she became a trustee in 2014 and general manager in 2016.
Paul Malpass
Richard Steele
Sally Davies
Paula Baker
New columnists
Welcome to 2025 and your first edition of the King Country News for the year. Today we unveil two new regular columnists - volcanologist Janine Krippner, and history writer Meghan Hawkes who have been extremely popular in our sister papers the Te Awamutu News and Cambridge News. Read a story featuring Janine on p4 today.
New kiwis
A dozen new New Zealanders were welcomed at a Waitomo District Council citizenship event before Christmas. People from Samoa, England, Fiji and Hong Kong met Waitomo mayor John Robertson at the ceremony. The new citizens are Sulusi Ailoi, Meka Ailoi, Vaai Konesetasia Sulusi, Pafelio Sulusi, Petesa Josephine Sulusi Ailoi, Mandy Sulusi, and Virginia Sulusi, Vavega Lifa, Fogaa Lifa and Theresa Vavega Lifa, Tina Anne Knox, Josaia Sauliga Korosaya and Tsz Wah Fani Ng.
Lifejacket swap
Old4New, an initiative where people can exchange their old, worn-out lifejackets for discounted new lifejackets, is on Saturday at K’aute Pasifika in Hamilton. Over the past decade, more than 22,000 old lifejackets have been traded in through Old4New.
Waste submissions
The Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) received 478 written submissions on behalf of the Board of Inquiry on the Te Awamutu-waste-toenergy plant resource consent application from Global Contracting Solutions Limited. A pre-hearing meeting for submitters and the applicant to discuss procedural matters will be held at FMG Stadium in Hamilton next month. The hearing is expected in June.
Council reform
The Government has agreed to reforms that refocus local councils on delivering essential services and core infrastructure, spending responsibly, and operating under greater scrutiny, Local Government Minister Simeon Brown says.
The pipes are calling Ross
By Chris Gardner
Ross O’Halloran feared he would never play the bagpipes again after his wrist was shattered in a car accident.
But eight years later O’Halloran has joined drummers and pipers at the Royal NZ Pipe Band Association Summer School in Wellington as Te Kuiti & District Highland Pipe Band drum major.
O’Halloran, who is also vice president of the pipe band, is supporting his oldest son, Glen, 13, and fellow side drummer Dominic D’ath, 15, tenor drummers Sarah D’ath, 14, and Isabella D’ath, 11.
Their younger brother Arthur is also in the band, but not attending the summer school, which runs for another week.
Asked what they hoped to get out of attending, Dominic said: “People from all over that all speak the language, drumming.”
Sarah added: “Good food, new friends and improved skills.”
Isabella said: “Great opportunity to further my skills, catch up with old friends and socialise.”
Both Dominic and Sarah have attended the school before.
“Summer school is good for them as it gives them more skills they can bring back to the band and pass on,”
O’Halloran said.
Dominic is teaching O’Halloran’s son Shane, 11, the side drum while Isabella and Sarah are teaching his daughter Tess, eight, the tenor drum.
O’Halloran is teaching Glen and the D’aths the pipes.
O’Halloran’s family has been
involved in the band since it began in 1949. His grandfather Jack O’Halloran helped raise money to start the band and became its patron. His father Jim O’Halloran was drum major until his death in 2017. His sisters Mary and Alison were also pipers.
The D’Aths joined the band after going to drum lessons that were being offered for free.
“They loved it and were soon regulars,” said their father, Andrew.
“They heard about the 2024 Royal New Zealand Pipe Band Association Summer School to be held in Christchurch at the camps and last year raised all the money for attending and getting there.
“They attended and Dominic and Sarah won scholarships for the tuition to return in 2025 in Wellington.”
“Piping is a very old thing,” O’Halloran said.
Each highland clan had a hereditary piper (classed as a gentleman in the clan) the great highland war pipes along with tartan feileadh Mhor (great wrap/ kilt) and feileadh beag (little wrap/ kilt) were banned under the 1746-1788 act of proscription at the end of the 4th Jacobite rebellion in 1745 and 46.
“The only place the highlanders could wear tartan and play pipes was in the Highland regiments raised in the British Army,” O’Halloran, education officer at Waitomo Museum, said.
“The belief is the three drone Great Highland war pipe evolved from the two drone Irish war pipes and were taken up by the likes of the Highland (Gaelic) clans after seeing the Irish mercenaries being led in battle against Wallace’s army at the battle of Falkirk 1298.
O’Halloran is North Island President of the House of Gordon of which his mother Glenyss was
convenor for about 30 years. He is also Lance
Section
Royal
Fears raised over screening call
One of the country’s biggest primary health organisations has taken issue with Whatu Ora’s decision to stop the age extension of bowel screening for Māori and Pasifika.
The starting age for bowel screening for Māori and Pasifika was dropped from 60 to 50 two years ago under a programme funded by the Labour government two year ago.
Pinnacle says Te Whatu Ora Health New Zealand’s decision to halt the age extension in Waikato has
left many without access to potentially life-saving tests.
Pinnacle’s clinical director Jo Scott-Jones said the sudden end of the programme will have significant implications.
Of Pinnacle’s approximately 265,000 patients in Waikato, around 45,000 are Māori.
Across the network’s region of Waikato, Tairāwhiti, Taranaki, and Lakes, it is estimated around 95,000 Māori are not enrolled with a general practice.
“Te Whatu Ora’s explanation that this was the
planned end of the Waikato part of a pilot involving Waikato, Tairāwhiti, and MidCentral did not address why this announcement was made after the effective onset date and without preparation or time for discussion,” said Dr Scott-Jones.
Dr Scott-Jones over the two years approximately 12,300 people were invited as part of the pilot. Of these, 4400 completed a screening test, 164 tests were positive, and six cancers were detected.
“…previously eligible Māori
and Pasifika aged 50-59 in Waikato are now likely being referred or asking for bowel screening tests to be sent out to them, only to be rejected. This will do nothing but harm people’s trust in the system,” he said.
“The majority of those with a positive test but no cancer will have had polyps that could later have become cancers removed.
Māori deserved a bowel screening programme that worked for them, he said.
“As the majority of bowel
under the age of 60, it makes no sense to start a screening programme after this age.”
Corporal and
Commander of the Hamilton Platoon, Hauraki Company, 3/6
New Zealand Infantry Regiment (RNZIR) and vice president of the Te Kuiti and District RSA.
Shane, left, Ross and Glen O’Halloran
cancers in Māori are diagnosed
Jo Scott-Jones
Rock stars reveal Karioi facts
By Roy Pilott
A come-and-go lake near Raglan has been declared the oldest in New Zealand.
Lake Disappear – Mokaikaraka – is in a valley near Bridal Veil falls dammed by lava flow 2.33 million years ago. It can be two kilometres long and 15 metres deep at one time of the year – and the drain to present as just a small stream
And nearby, timber which is older than Karioi itself and with bark attached is regularly found on the maunga.
The nuggets of information came out in an engaging presentation at Te Awamutu Library recently.
Oliver McLeod, from the Waikato Regional Council, was joined by Janine Krippner, who writes On Shaky Ground for Good Local Media, publisher of The News, to discuss the geology of Karioi volcano – the title of his new book – and the field extending from it including Pirongia, Kakepuku and Te Kawa.
The pair are rock stars of a different type. McLeod explained that studying rocks enabled geologist to trace the history. Karioi as Ankaramite, Olivine basalt, Plagioclase-basalt, Andesite and Peridotite.
Ankaramite is McLeod’s favourite.
“My life’s mission is to share Ankaramite. My mum says it looks like concrete, but think it’s just beautiful, full of crystals and growth rings.” McLeod’s four-year work, which was helped by sponsorship and crowd funding - follows the geological mapping of Karioi to
show how it evolved – eruption by eruption - and changed in shape over millions of years. It follows a similar work on the younger Mt Pirongia.
His map of Karioi shows in different colours flows from each of a series of eruptions and the book’s illustrations include rock profiles where he identified layers which
predate the maunga.
Another nugget was that Whale Bay – Te Marae o Mōkī - at Raglan is a lagoon – an unusual feature on the west coast - formed by a significant landslide.
Mt Taranaki today looks like Karioi and Pirongia would have 2.5 million years ago. Pirongia is the youngest of the four maunga – Te Kawa and Kakepuku are dated back 2.3 to 2.7 million years – but more work is required to determine the accuracy of that estimate.
Karioi had also gone through collapses similar to the Mount St Helens, south of Seattle, eruption in the US in 1980. Mt St Helens, not unlike Taranaki in profile, literally blew its top.
The work carried out by McLeod has also underlined similarities between what the Waipā maunga were like millions of year ago and what Auckland had with Rangitoto and its own field of volcanoes.
Krippner, who did the introduction by explaining she liked her volcanoes hot, said understanding those that were not enabled volcanologists to better understand active fields and how they might change.
At any one time 40 to 60 volcanoes would be erupting around the world, and 90 per cent are in the Pacific’s ring of fire –which includes New Zealand. • Janine Krippner is one of two new columnists to appear in The News today – see page 7.
Oliver McLeod and Janine Krippner, pictured at a recent presentation which included a book signing.
Water Done Well talks progress
By Chris Gardner
Hauraki District Council has become the last territorial authority to agree to sign the Waikato Water Done Well agreement.
The decision, made unanimously by councillors, means seven out of 10 of the Waikato’s territorial authorities have responded to the government’s Local Water Done Well legislation by agreeing to sign the non-binding agreement.
Hauraki has joined Waitomo, Ōtorohanga, Waipā, Matamata-Piako, South Waikato and Taupō.
Waitomo and Ōtorohanga voted to enter into a Heads of Agreement as part of the project early last month.
The agreement will see them progress a detailed business case for a collective approach to forming a regional multicouncil-controlled water organisation to manage drinking water, wastewater, and, where requested, stormwater services.
A seven-council controlled organisation is not a certainty.
Hauraki District Council is also exploring forming a duopoly with ThamesCoromandel District Council or adding Matamata-Piako District Council to the mix.
Each council will make the Waikato Water Done Well model available to the public early this year as part of community consultation.
“We have the option of going it alone and continuing as we are, with an enhanced business unit to comply with expected regulations, or work in collaboration with our Waikato and neighbouring councils to get the benefits of scale; quality standards and resilience,” said Hauraki district mayor Toby Adams in a statement.
“Based on the latest legislation all councils must explore a status quo option and at least two other options including collaboration, so we have big decisions to make and as importantly, our communities need ample opportunity to have their say on the options we present.
“Key to the success of any option will be the clear understanding of who will do what and when, who will own it and who will pay for it – once we’ve nailed that down, we’ll head out to our communities around March 2025 for a public consultation.”
The investment could cost $100 million over 10 years and save a conservative $338 million in that time. Multiple
independent reports over more than a decade found managing water services regionally could save money and improve infrastructure by leveraging scale.
Vaughan Payne, who has been leading Water Done Well on behalf of the Waikato Mayoral Forum and local iwi chairs for 18 months and holding meetings council chief executives, said Hauraki’s decision was good news.
“Of the 10 territorial authorities, seventy per
cent have signed up to the agreement for Waikato Water Done Well,” he said.
“It’s still subject to public consultation, so we will see what the community feel.
“We saw, in the last Government, that a topdown approach to water reform does not work.”
“We need strong community ownership of the problem and the solution. We have worked hard for the last 18 months to get a cohesive understanding of the problem, not just today but
The clearing of a track between Te Kūiti and the Mangaokewa reserve to the south has given summer visitorsand residents – a new view of the Te Araroa Trail.
The track, previously overgrown and in need of an upgrade, is part of a 3000km walking trail from Cape Reinga to Bluff. It incorporates Brook Park and follows the Mangaokewa Stream from Te Kumi Road through to the existing river track.
Work on upgrading the track through Te Kūiti started in 2023 and the most recent section from Ahoroa Ford and along the stream to Mangaokewa Reserve completed the project.
Waitomo District Council’s walkway project is being financed by the Tourism Infrastructure Fund. Storyboards are will be placed at culturally significant areas along the trail.
for the future.”
If given the go ahead by communities, the councilcontrolled organisation would be established in mid-2025 and become fully operational by mid-2026. A key requirement is that this is seamless from a customer experience perspective.
Hamilton City Council and Waikato District Council are exploring establishing their own organisation but have been clear that they see a regional model being of benefit at some point in the future. Thames-Coromandel District Council has opted not to sign any agreements.
Toby Adams
The death of Harry Lampra
By Meghan Hawkes
Harry Lampra, a 19-year-old from Te Kūiti, disappeared at the end of June 1889. He worked for Mr Tanner, a boarding house keeper, and had been sent out on horseback to look for some cows which were thought to have strayed across the Mangaokewa River.
Since the time he left Mr Tanner’s nothing was seen or heard of him. The horse, however, was found the next day near the river. Constables Lowther and Berriman and several railway workmen searched for the lad but no trace of him was found.
Harry’s mother, Elizabeth, was a widow, residing in Alexandra Street, Auckland. Eleven years previously she, her husband John and their five small children had arrived in New Zealand from England by the immigrant ship Appelles. John, 28, found work as a stableman at Auckland’s
Crowther’s Stables where his obliging disposition meant he was well liked. But within three months of the Lampras’ arrival John died from injuries after accidentally falling through the stable loft floor. He was buried in Auckland’s Symonds Street cemetery.
John left his wife and children in very precarious circumstances having arrived in the country without money and being unable to save anything out of his wages. A subscription was raised on their behalf and contributions were collected by the Auckland Star and Mr Crowther. Over 87 pounds was raised for the Lampras and Mr Crowther said of the generous response that not a single request for a donation had been refused and many were voluntary and unsolicited. He proposed to get a laundry box mangle with part of the money, so Elizabeth could take in work, and place the balance in a bank account. He would be
glad, he said, to receive a better suggestion or any guidance on estate management. He was warned to beware. In Auckland large sums of money were often raised for widows and orphans. A proper deed needed to be drawn up, and the widow be made to party to it. Otherwise, any loafer may beguile her into marriage for the sake of the money or wheedle it out of her without the ceremony of marriage. Elizabeth, though, did not fall prey to any swindlers and purchased a box mangle. This was a cumbersome affair consisting of a large box filled with rocks that rested on a series of long wooden rollers. Damp laundry was laid flat under rollers or wound round the rollers. They required a fair bit of strength to operate but soon Elizabeth was advertising ‘Mangling done in a superior manner in a First-class Box Mangle.’
By the late 1880s the mangle
was sold, and her eldest son Harry was missing in Te Kūiti. It was feared he had drowned while trying to cross the flood swollen river. Four long weeks passed before his body was found caught against a snag a short distance below a ford. Constable Berriman had him removed to the railway goods shed.
The inquest found that Harry had accidentally drowned. The difficulty of where to bury him then arose as local Māori objected to their land being used. Harry was ultimately buried in a corner Te Kūiti’s railway station reserve.
Letters…
A magic circle
I just wanted to drop a quick note to the citizens of Ōtorohanga to let them know what a fine town they have.
My wife and I recently completed a long tour of New Zealand, and Ōtorohanga was one of our favourite stops, primarily because of how friendly the people were. It started with Bill Millar who met us at our train with a hearty welcome and interesting information about the history of the town, then Vanessa at the information centre who provided valuable practical advice for our stay, and Jeff at the Palm Court Motel who was extremely accommodating, providing private transportation to several of your area attractions. We enjoyed the many activities your region has to offer, from the Kiwi House to the caves, and even the pleasant dike walk around the town.
It was a small miracle that we ended up in Ōtorohanga. Before our trip started we purchased a large, detailed map of New Zealand at a second-hand shop. The only hand-written mark on the map was a circle drawn around the town of Ōtorohanga. We had to check it out, and we are certainly glad we did. Spencer and Stasia Harvey Charleston, South Carolina, US
KNOW YOUR PROFESSIONAL
EMPLOYERS: BEWARE THE PITFALLS OF FIXED-TERM AGREEMENTS
When an employer considers hiring an employee on a xed-term basis, it’s essential to ensure that there is a legally valid and genuine reason for making the employment agreement xed term. A xedterm agreement cannot be used to limit an employee’s rights, test their suitability for the role, or undermine their entitlements under the Holidays Act.
FIT OR FAT
Did you overindulge this festive season and have been spending the new year getting back into shape? Why not get your pet involved too?
It may not come as a surprise to hear that obesity in our furry companions is becoming increasingly more common, with statistics in New Zealand alarmingly
So, what quali es as a genuine reason?
Acceptable grounds for xed-term employment include replacing an employee on parental leave, covering a busy seasonal period, or completing a speci c project. If you have one of these legitimate reasons, you and the employee can mutually agree that the employment will end at a set date, after a particular event, or when a project concludes.
However, if the reason for a xed-term arrangement isn’t solid, it could lead to legal trouble. An employee might claim that the agreement is ine ective and raise a personal grievance. This can quickly turn into a costly and stressful situation for the employer. To avoid this, always ensure that you have clear, genuine reasons for o ering a xed-term contract.
high. Generally, animals get obese when their energy intake exceeds their energy expenditure, however, there can be other factors at play such as underlying medical considerations.
To ensure the best results we need to look at the ‘whole’ picture and consider a number of factors such as breed, gender,
age, neutering, environment, feeding regimes and underlying or known medical conditions. If you’re thinking about embarking on a weight loss journey with your pet give us a call for a free weightloss consultation to nd out what the best and safest options are for you and your pet.
WHAT IS A SEALANT?
Dental or ssure sealants are a thin resin coating applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth (molars and premolars). These surfaces have pits and grooves that can trap food particles and bacteria, and this can lead to cavities. This is especially true for patients whose teeth have deep grooves as well as for children, who are still learning proper brushing habits. Sealants
act as a barrier by sealing o these areas, preventing food and bacteria from getting stuck and causing tooth decay. However, they are only preventative. When there is a bigger issue like a cavity, even with a sealant the cavity will need to be addressed.
What is getting a sealant like?
Getting a sealant is a quick, non-invasive
procedure that doesn’t require any drilling or removal of tooth structure. First, the dentist cleans and dries the teeth and applies a special gel to help the sealant bond to the tooth. Then, they paint the sealant material onto the tooth surface. Finally, they use a special curing light to harden the sealant, and the sealant is good to go.
As of yesterday, NZ and AU passport holders require an ETA to travel to and enter the UK. You will need an ETA visa if you’re going to the UK for up to six months for tourism, visiting friends & family, business or short-term study or
transiting through the UK (even if not passing through UK border control). ETA’s cost GBP10 and are usually granted within 3 business days (sometimes longer). ETAs are valid for two years or until passport expiry, whichever is sooner and
allow multiple visits whilst the ETA remains valid. You do not require an ETA if you have a visa, permission to live, work or study in the UK, a British or Irish passport or a British Overseas Territories citizen passport.
32 Taupiri St | Te Kūiti | P 07 878 8137
53 Moa St | Piopio | P 07
KELSI BARNETT
ON SHAKY GROUND
The Boxing Day tsunami
By Janine Krippner
This time 20 years ago, countries around the Indian Ocean were reeling from the grief and horror of one of the deadliest events in modern history - the Boxing Day tsunami triggered by the 9.2-9.3 magnitude Sumatra–Andaman earthquake.
Around a quarter million locals and tourists lost their lives. Well over a million were displaced. Each one of those lives mattered. The impact was so large that we cannot accurately measure it.
Around the world we watched in horror as the news (not yet smartphones) showed footage of people running, waves rolling in, and houses and all sorts of other debris washing inland. It has always brought goosebumps to my skin.
The earthquake was triggered along the subduction zone where the Indian tectonic plate is moving down below the Burma micro-plate. We call the area where the two plates meet a fault or megathrust.
The relative movement of these two large plates past or against each other built up strain, potentially over hundreds of years, when they were locked into place at the fault boundary.
On Boxing Day, 2004, this strain was released in a catastrophic failure over a length of 1200 to 1300 km, that’s approximately Bluff to Whakatāne in a straight line.
It took around eight minutes for the total length of the fault to fracture, and the rupture speed was 2-3 km a second.
Think of a crack spreading through the ground on a massive scale and very fast. This is what causes the shaking.
What caused the tsunami was the upward movement of the seafloor, shoving vast
amounts of water vertically that then formed a set of waves we call a tsunami.
If you hold a hand under water then flick it upwards, you’ll see multiple waves moving out from you in the same way.
We are so used to water being part of our everyday lives that we forget the force of it, especially in large volumes.
You can be swept off your feet in around 15cm of moving water.
On that Boxing Day the tsunami wave heights varied depending on location, reaching over 30m in places. The water moved kilometres inland depending on location. It’s important to remember these events and take a moment to think about what we would do if we were in the wrong place at the wrong time.
Evacuation is our best shot of surviving, and knowing where to go is your best shot of getting out fast enough.
If you head to our beaches this summer, check out any tsunami evacuation signs and have a chat about where you would run to.
Remember “If an earthquake is – Long or Strong, Get Gone”.
Don’t wait for an official warning because you might not get one if a tsunami is generated close to shore.
The Boxing Day tsunami speed reached 800kph in the ocean.
It’s better to be potentially embarrassed by a false alarm than face the consequences of not acting fast enough. A false alarm is a good practice run.
GARDENING
FOR BLOOMING BEAUTIES AND PLANTS THAT THRIVE
Happy New Year
Katrina Christison Tidy Gardens
I hope you all had a relaxing break. While you were away, the garden didn’t rest— the weeds kept growing and setting seed, and with the wind we’ve been having, those weed seeds have likely spread far and wide. The wind has also dried things out, so if you haven’t mulched yet, I recommend adding it to your gardening to-do list. Other tasks to consider include continuing to deadhead or pick flowers to encourage more blooms. Make sure to water your garden a couple of times a week with deep, thorough watering, preferably in the morning or evening. Long, deep watering is much more beneficial than quick, shallow watering. This method encourages roots to grow deeper into the cooler soil, making your plants less susceptible to stress during
hot, dry spells.
Now is the perfect time to trim your star jasmine (Trachelospermum jasminoides), as it has finished flowering and is starting to produce new growth. Trimming it now will help keep it under control and maintain its shape and pruning after flowering ensures you don’t trim the buds for the next flowering cycle.
I grow mine as a hedge along a deer fence, trimming it to about 20cm wide. This creates the perfect green backdrop for my garden, provides privacy, and acts as a windbreak. It’s a very versatile plant with a beautiful fragrant scent when in flower as it can be grown as a hedge, espaliered, used as ground cover, or even trimmed into balls or cones. You can pretty much train it in any shape you desire. So if you don’t have any in your garden yet, it’s a wonderful plant to add!
Happy Gardening!
Road works ahead…
A section of State Highway 3 through Te Kūiti will be reduced to a single lane from the middle of the month as part of a project which will take about almost three months to complete.
Waitomo Council’s contractor Camex Civil will replace a large watermain from Carroll Street along to Duke Street. A wastewater pipe at the King Street West intersection with SH3 will also be replaced.
Work on the watermain replacement will continue until late February when the NZ Transport Agency (Waka Kotahi) will carry out road works.
General Manager Infrastructure Services, Shyamal Ram acknowledged the significant impact the work will have during the summer months.
A full road closure during the road works will be in place and the project is expected to
be completed in late March or early April.
During phase one, residents and travellers can expect a single lane closure in Carroll Street during the watermain replacement, as south bound light vehicle are diverted along Taupiri Street and heavy vehicle will use Te Kumi Station Road, Esplanade and Te Kūiti Road. North bound traffic will use the single lane on Carroll Street/SH3.
Camex Civil will mainly work on the western road berm along Carroll Street, King Street West, Craig Terrace, Ward and Duke Streets will be affected with minor works.
“Residents and businesses along Carroll Street/SH3 will experience the inconvenience of construction activity on both the berm, road resurfacing and possible disruptions in utilities,” the council said in a statement.
During phase two - NZTA’s road worksthe diversions will apply to all traffic.
Priced from $295,000* * Purchased under an occupation right agreement (ORA)
Carroll St/State Highway 3 will be a new wastewater pipe, water main and the seal will be given a spruce up.
with Jan Bilton
Celebrate with seafood
Summer isn’t summer without seafood— and it is the perfect pick-me-up after all those enjoyable, but heavy, indulgences of the festive season. And seafood is the taste of good heath packed with high-quality protein, omega-3, a variety of B vitamins, several minerals and usually very little fat. However, the number of calories consumed will depend entirely on how the fish is prepared. Fish dipped in batter and fried has 1270 kilojoules (303 kilocalories) per 100 grams whereas the same amount of fish baked has 519 kilojoules or 124 kilocalories. When shopping for fish, buy the best species available on the day rather than deciding on a particular fish ahead of time. Many different varieties of fish can be adapted to the same recipe. Ideally, fish should be kept on ice instore — or on chilled trays — in a cold atmosphere with air circulating around it. Once you’re home, unwrap the fish and rinse quickly under cold water. Pat it dry with paper towels then have a sniff. The smell should have
a fresh, ocean-like quality, not sour or sharp. Store the fish on a clean plate covered loosely with baking paper in the refrigerator. Consume within 12-24 hours of purchase, depending on the variety.
Salmon with lemon & asparagus
500g salmon fillet
4-6 spears asparagus, trimmed
1 large red-skinned potato, finely diced
2 spring onions, diced
1 lemon
2-3 tablespoons dry white wine freshly ground salt and black pepper to taste
Preheat the oven to 200°C.
Using tweezers, remove the pin bones from the salmon. Cut any thick spears of asparagus in half lengthwise. Cut the asparagus into 3cm lengths. Combine with the potato and spring onions.
Cut a sheet of wide foil large enough to enclose the salmon completely. Lightly oil the dull side of the foil. Place 4 thin slices
of lemon in the centre. Place the salmon on top. Top with the vegetables, allowing the excess spill onto the foil. Sprinkle with the wine and seasonings. Bring the two sides of the foil together in the middle and fold the edges over to seal. Continue to fold the seam until it’s within 2cm of the fillet. Fold both ends over to hold in the juices. Make sure there is a little space for the steam to circulate in the packet. Place in a large roasting dish or on a baking tray. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the fish is done. Allow the package to stand for a few minutes before serving. Serves 3-4.
Te Kuiti 1A George Street
Piopio 13 Pukeiti Road
Te Kuiti 52 Hospital Road (extension)
Te Kuiti 7 Lawrence Street
Te Kuiti 1 Nettie Street
Te Kuiti 38 King Street West
Mahoenui 7 Gribbon
Kuiti
Kuiti
Turn your unwanted items into cash
Place a Garage Sale ad in King Country
News
Email text for ad (max 120 characters, including word spaces) through to admin@goodlocal.nz week prior to your garage sale day.
Payment due Tuesday prior to garage sale day. King Country News is published on Thursdays.
Business Opportunity
Otorohanga College Canteen Management
Ōtorohanga College
We
Key Responsibilities:
• Preparing and serving a range of nutritious meals and snacks
for
• Ensuring compliance with food safety and hygiene standards
• Providing friendly and efficient service to students and staff
• Offering affordable and appealing menu options for all age groups
• Ability to work during College hours
If you are interested in this exciting opportunity, please contact the Principal, Lyndsay Kurth at kurthl@otocoll.school.nz by Thursday 23rd January.
What's going on?
Farmer King Country
Know someone doing great things in the farming community LET US KNOW! 07 878 1188 editor@goodlocal.nz
ONGARUE EWE FAIR
Tuesday, January 14
Auction starts 12pm Comprising – 9500 Ewes
400 4Th & 6Th Romney/
Ongarue Ewe Fair
Tuesday, January 14, 2025
Mike Connolly
170 5yr Romdales Sherson breeding 152% docking
Contact Stephen Wheeler 027 472 8441
4th& 6th Romney Wiltshire ewes
6yr
ewes135%
Contact Stephen Wheeler 027 472 8441 Panhandle Station 2200 4yr, 5yr & 6yr Romney ewes
John Marchant breeding for 15 years and last 5 Ken Haywood 165% scanning
Contact Stephen Wheeler 027 472 8441
GONDOLAETTOUYIUKGQ
Across: 1. About, 4. Bypass, 7. Rye, 8. Freeze, 9. Normal, 10. Under-thetable, 14. Shady, 15. Abide, 18. Take the Mickey, 23. Recoup, 24. Random, 25. Pea, 26. Safely, 27. Lease. Down: 1. Apron, 2. Obese, 3. Treaty, 4. Bender, 5. Parka, 6. Stall, 10. Upset, 11. Drank, 12. Brink, 13. Every, 16. Chippy, 17. Amoral, 19. Arena, 20. Elope, 21. Conga, 22. Erode.
(Fr) (2,5)
Saying (5)
Morsel (5)
Dried grape (7)
Large artillery piece (6)
Demolish (5)
Unruliness (12)
Sewing machine & overlocker repairs and maintenance
HO L ES
Foundation Holes DANIEL JAQUES Mob 027 261 2248
7 DAYS FREE PICK-UP
Phone Tiger or Ray 0800 668 833 027 433 3338 or 07 823 6500
Accom Wanted
A RETIRED CIVIL engineer requires a bach/cottage (town or country location) in return for property maintenance –employment
Please reply to advertiser planpacengineer@ yahoo.com
Servicing Ōtorohanga and Waitomo districts
Call Steve and Marilyn 021 111 3911
Need a qualified and experienced tradesman?
NEED A QUALIFIED AND EXPERIENCED TRADESMAN?
Plumbing
Plumbing
Ph Nigel 07 878 7877 027 674 3396 Email: nigel@npg.co.nz
Tenders
ABANDONED LAND TENDER
Progress Dr, Ōtorohanga Awakino Rd, Te Kuiti 07 873 7271
SEAN CURRAN ROOFING
Specialising in re-roofing, roof maintenance, spouting, downpipes and light commercial work and roof leaks
Ph 027 493 2502 • Security Patrols
Under conduct of the Registrar of the District Court at Hamilton at the request of the Waitomo District Council and in exercise of the power of sale contained in the provisions of the Local Government (Rating) Act 2002, the Waitomo District Council offers by public tender the properties listed below:
6 Rata Street, Aria
Valuation number: 0585127500
Section 3 Block VI Town of Aria and being all the land contained in Certificate of Title TN65/107 approximately 1012 square metres more or less. The property is situated at 6 Rata Street, Aria and is within the territory of the Waitomo District Council
10 Barclay Road, Aria
Valuation number: 0585126000
Section 6 Block III Town of Aria and being all the land contained in Certificate of Title TN59/22 approximately 1012 square metres more or less. The property is situated at 10 Barclay Road, Aria and is within the territory of the Waitomo District Council
2 Kuku Street, Piopio
Valuation number: 0588013000
Lot 13 Deposited Plan South Auckland 5558 and being all the land contained in Certificate of Title SA21A/108 approximately 1097 square metres more or less. The property is situated at 2 Kuku Street, Piopio and is within the territory of the Waitomo District Council.
Rangitoto Road, Te Kuiti
Valuation number: 0586229000
Section 20 Block II Pakaumanu Survey District and being all the land contained in Certificate of Title SA1C/1226 approximately 283 square metres more or less. The property is situated at Rangitoto Road, Te Kuiti and is within the territory of the Waitomo District Council.
8 School Road, Maniaiti / Benneydale
Valuation number: 0586517100
Section 66 Block X Mapara Survey District and being all the land contained in Certificate of Title TNJ1/193 approximately 736 square metres more or less. The property is situated at 8 School Road, Maniaiti / Benneydale and is within the territory of the Waitomo District Council.
TENDERS CLOSE 4pm, Wednesday 22 January 2025.
Tender documents are available by contacting Debt Management Central (DMC), on 0508 436 269; dmc@mw.org.nz, DMC, DX PA84005, Feilding or from http://www.debtmanagementcentral.org.nz
Tender documents and all enquiries are to be submitted to DMC the agent for the Local Authority.
Late tenders will not be accepted.
This notice is authorised by: Ben Smit
Chief Executive
Waitomo District Council 25 November 2024
Scissors/knives sharpened
Ph Neil 027 587 8538 helen.neilpotter@gmail.com
Anything too big for a shovel - give me a call • Vegetation removal • Driveway prep - Auger • Landscaping • Trenching • Water tanks Manga Roach Ph 027 431 9959
HANDYMAN
Property maintenance and construction
Lawns, trees, stump grinding, sections, moss & mould treatments, Chemwash, waterblasting, gutter vac, water tank and trough cleaning fences, retaining, odd jobs and more. References available GST registered.
Mike & Allana 027 350 0836 info@handy-man.co.nz
Public Notices
PUBLIC NOTICE OF APPARENTLY ABANDONED LAND
ACCOUNTING POSITION
We are now looking for a person to join our Ōtorohanga office.
Duties will include:
• Preparation of financial accounts for farmers and businesses
• Preparation of GST and income tax returns
• General business and taxation work
The successful will have a keen interest in accounting, computer skills and clerical work, with attention to detail. Some farming knowledge would be preferred. Excellent people skills, integrity and professionalism are required.
While some past experience would be preferred, training will be given to the successful applicant.
Our firm is an Approved Training Organisation with Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand.
We would also offer professional development opportunities through distance learning.
Bailey Ingham Limited Chartered Accountants
Email: info@baileyingham.co.nz
Enquiries to: Bridget Boshier or David Bailey 07 873 7325
TAKE NOTICE that Otorohanga Council intends to exercise its statutory powers conferred by s.77 of the Local Government (Rating) Act 2002 in respect of the land described below.
1. Apply to the District Court one month after the date of this notice for an order declaring the land to be abandoned, and
2. To authorise Otorohanga District Council to sell or lease the land –
Because the rates have not been paid to Otorohanga District Council for three (3) years and the rate payer of the land:
(a) is unknown, or
(b) cannot be found after due inquiry and has no known New Zealand agent, or
(c) is deceased and has no personal representative, or
(d) has given notice to the Otorohanga District Council of his or her intention to abandon the land or has abandoned the land.
Valuation number: 0554140400
Lot 14 Deposited Plan South Auckland 1834 Area: 1571 square metres more or less (SA5D/1434 South Auckland land registry) in the name of Ngaraiti Kupe. The property is situated at 131 Main North Road, Otorohanga and is within the territory of the Otorohanga District Council.
If you have an interest or any information relevant to the proposed application by the Otorohanga District Council, you should contact Kylie Williams on 0508 436 269, dmc@mw.org.nz or DMC, DX PA84005, Feilding.
This notice is authorised by:
Tanya Winter Chief Executive
Otorohanga District Council 16 December 2024
Piripiri School
2025 MAROKOPA FISHING COMPETITION
Sunday, January 26, 2025
Entries - Adults $20, Child (13 and under) $5, Under 5 $2
• Boat and surf casting sections
• Trout section (Must show Licence)
• Sand castle competition & other novelty events
• Raffles
• Food available
Entries on the day at Marokopa Community Hall from 5-11am Weigh-in from 3-5pm, with Prize-giving at 6pm (Must be present to claim prizes)
For more information phone 07 876 7522 or email fundraising@piripiri.school.nz
COAST SPORTS
Saturday, January 18,
Marokopa
Admission: Family $5 • Single $2
• Under 14yrs FREE Over $4500 money and prizes!
First event starts at 10am
• EFTPOS available
- no cash given
• Luncheon booth
Kinohaku School fundraiser delicious food all day
Athletic Events
Chopping Events
Horse Events Childrens races and fun hour
SCRAP GOLD WANTED
We
10 Sheridan St, Te Kūiti
An Assemblies of God church
We welcome you to our 10.30am
Sunday service.
St Bride's Anglican Church Haerehuka St Ōtorohanga SUNDAY Morning service 10am Ph 07 873 7006
Notices
Orahiri N3 & P Ahu Whenua Trust Special Owners Meeting
10.30am
Saturday, January 11, 2025
51 Taupiri Street (PACT Trust ) Te Kūiti
AGENDA ITEMElection of Replacement Trustees
Inquiries: Dawn Magner 027 449 4145 dawnm@maniapoto.org.nz or Desarae Green 021 179 3938
Bring along a plate for kaitahi after hui
Nau mai haere mai
Notice of Annual General Meeting Tapuiwahine A12 Trust
Date: Sunday, February 23, 2025 Registrations and refreshments: 930am-10am Meeting Starts: 10am Venue: Motiti Marae, Mangatea Road, Te Kūiti
AGENDA:
• Karakia
• Chairpersons welcome
• Minutes of previous AGM
• Financial Report
• Chairmans Report
• Correspondence
• Election of Trustees/Officers/ Resignations
• General Business
• Advice of Lease Negotiation
• Karakia
For Proxy forms, zoom credentials, agenda items or apologies, please email the Trust: tapuiwahinea12@gmail.com
TEARLE, Ewart Frank: Peacefully at Te Kuiti Hospital on Friday 20th December 2024. Aged 77 years. Dearly loved husband of Elaine for 50 years. Much loved father of Genevieve; and Jason (deceased). Adored Grandad of Liam. In accordance with Ewart’s wishes a private cremation has been held. A celebration of Ewart’s life will take place at a later date. Special thanks to Aphasia NZ, the staff at Waikato and Te Kuiti Hospitals and the medical centre. All communications to Tearle Family c/- PO Box 241, Te Kuiti 394. VJ Williams & Sons, Funeral Directors Association of NZ
BURTON, Colleen Maude (nee Southey): Peacefully in Tauranga Hospital on Thursday 19th December 2024 aged 91 years. Dearly loved wife of Don. Much loved mother and mother in law of Grant, Peter, Russell (deceased), and Donna and Marisa. A service for Colleen will be held at Mount Harbour Chapel, corner of Tawa Street and Puriri Street Mount Maunganui, on Thursday 9th January 2025 at 11am. Messages to the Burton family C/PO Box 650 Tauranga 3144.
• Casket sprays • Wreaths • Arrangements
Catering
St David's Presbyterian Church Ranfurly St, Ōtorohanga
Sunday 10am Session clerk Ph 07 873 8735 Room bookings Ph Nina 027 237 2382
bloomsandbrewsnz@gmail.com
BOARD, Margot Martha: Peacefully on 22 December 2024 at Waikato Hospital, aged 95 years. (late of Otorohanga). Dearly loved wife of Derrick (deceased). Loved mother of Maggie Hughes (Otorohanga) and Maureen Board (Wellington). Loved Nana of Steve & Sherie and David Hughes. Great Nana of Chanelle, Jake, Matt, Samantha, Chris & Keeley, and Great Great Nana of Tawhiri & Makaiha. A private family service has been held. All communications to Board Family c/- PO Box 241, Te Kuiti 3941. VJ Williams & Sons, Funeral Directors Association of NZ
BYLES, Denis (Rex): At Bupa Foxbridge, Hamilton on Sunday 22nd December 2024. Aged 90 years. Much loved husband of the late Beryl for 64 years. Loved father and fatherin-law of Neill and Shelly, Sally and Murray. Loved grandfather of Sarah, Melissa; Estelle and Marinus. According to Rex’s wishes a private family service has taken place, followed by cremation. All communications to Byles Family c/- PO Box 241, Te Kuiti 3941. VJ Williams & Sons, Funeral Directors Association of NZ
DUFF, Robert George, (Bob): Reg No: 38526, Sgt, R.N.Z.A.F. Corps. Passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family. Dearly loved husband of the late Bernice. Loved father and father-in-law of Robert, Dianne, Ivan & Michelle, Steven & Neisha the late Darryl, Stuart and Phillip. Grandad to Zoe, Melissa, Hannah, Racheal, Dylan, Josh, Logan, Cooper, Shania, Ryan and Lee. Gan Gan to eight. At Robert’s request a private family farewell has taken place. All communications to the Duff Family, c/262 Ohaupo Road, Te Awamutu 3800.
