Te Awamutu News | April 11, 2024

All together now?

By Roy Pilott

The head of the Waikato Chamber of Commerce wants to spark a debate on the 35-year-old local government boundaries in the province.

The last local government reforms introduced a regional tier, male-dominated borough and county councils disappeared and Waikato was populated with a city council and a host of district councils.

It brought neighbours like Te Awamutu and Cambridge together, but left Ōtorohanga and Te Kuiti separate. In a memo in the latest chamber newsletter

Don Good poses the

question: has the time for the amalgamation of the Waikato’s territorial authorities arrived?

“We have a cost of living crisis, people will struggle to meet the forecast rise in rates – and businesses are frustrated by the artificial lines we have pencilled across our region,” he said.

“Most Waikato councils are close to their debt ceiling and experiencing a downgrade in their viability. They are also facing really big costs to ensure their core services and infrastructure do not break.”

Debt ceilings are an issue discussed on page 13 in Peter Nicholl’s regular column. Greater Waikato is

governed by its regional council, Hamilton City Council and 10 district councils – Franklin, Hauraki, Thames-Coromandel, Waikato, Waipā, Ōtorohanga, Waitomo, Matamata-Piako, South Waikato and Taupō. Good brings that number to 13 by including the Rotorua district because part of that council’s area takes in land to the west of the Mamaku range which feeds into the Waikato River.

It’s no secret that some Waikato and King Country councils are already looking at the logistics of amalgamating.

Waitomo mayor John Robertson in a column in

Dennis takes farmer crown

Waikato-Bay of Plenty FMG Young Farmer of the Year on Saturday, following two days of competition at the Kerepehi Domain.

The 30-year-old will take on six other regional finalists in July’s final – when a successor to 2023 Young Farmer of the Year, Pirongia’s Emma Poole, will be crowned in Hamilton.

Also on Saturday Summer Korkie and Luke Pease from Te Awamutu College won the Waikato Bay of Plenty FMG Junior Young Farmer of the Year title for 2024 –

heading off James Hill and Ben Ede from Cambridge High School.

Main has not competed in the event before though has been an active member of Piarere Young Farmers.

“I didn’t know what to expect, so to come away with the win was a real surprise,” he said.

Main grew up on the family dairy farm, and after leaving school studied engineering. He spent four years back on the family farm and has now turned his hand to building.

the King Country News last month said of his council and neighbour Ōtorohanga “we are substantially the King Country, Maniapoto… so why are we governed by two councils?”

He said amalgamating was considered 20 years ago – “it is surely time to consider this option once again”.

Time has also caught up with some boundaries – part of Hamilton is in the Waipā district.

When a governmentcommissioned Future for Local Government review panel presented a restructure plan in the middle of last year it was tipped to be a general election issue. It wasn’t and

has barely rated a media mention since.

But as councils roll out long term plans with huge rate rises over the next three years, the debates are likely to occur.

Good says the chamber is hardly the biggest fan of centralisation, but adds there needs to be some rationalisation across the Waikato to get costs down.

Saying “bollocks” as one old Waikato leader did has not worked. The rate rises are proof of that. It is time for a change.”

He said voters were frustrated by a duplication of bureaucracy, the differences in rules, the lack of efficiency and speed in delivering services and the number of “dumb initiatives that annoy voters, such as the raised roads at intersections”. “It is time to look at how amalgamation can be implemented.”

Piarere’s Dennis Main was crowned

Dennis Main is on his way to the final.

This is your invitation to join members for a great time.

Please bring your friends if you think that they could be interested.

Waipa Workingmen’s Club, Albert Park Drive.

Thursday the 18th of April 1pm for a 1.30pm start

GUEST SPEAKER Sandra Metcalfe, topic will be family research and history. Sandra is a local who is well known for her knowledge regarding genealogy and related research. Quick Fire Raffle cash prizes (bring your $2.00 gold coins). Subs can be paid on the day $20 single or $30 for couples. Cup of tea or coffee will be available.

Enriching the art world

By Viv Posselt

Waipā artists associated with Te Awamutu’s Enrich Plus community will showcase their creative talents at an IHC Art Awards gallery exhibition in the town tomorrow (Friday).

Their artwork will go on public view from 3.30pm to 5pm at the Enrich art gallery in Teasdale St and be on view for the next couple of weeks.

The works are up for inclusion in this year’s IHC Art Awards, an annual event that provides artists with an intellectual disability the opportunity to have their artwork recognised, win a prize and sell their work.

Enrich Te Awamutu team manager Ngawai Hamblin said of the 15 or 16 works

ON SHAKY GROUND

Countdown to catastrophe

By Janine Krippner

This time in 1980 in the United States activity was increasing at Mount St Helens volcano, Washington.

Several earthquakes were detected in midMarch, alerting scientists at the United States Geological Survey (USGS, the equivalent of our GNS Science) that something might be happening.

Today detecting a few earthquakes is a totally normal part of the life of a dormant volcano, we can detect and locate so much more with our improved technology and knowledge.

In 1980 there was no knowing that this activity would lead to a formidable eruption that would end 57 lives in a style that was mostly unheard of at the time.

Time was quickly ticking closer to the big event. On March 27 a phreatic (steam) eruption blasted out a 60-75m diameter crater at the summit.

The crater grew to 400m within a week with continued explosions. Initially they were frequent, but they declined by late April.

Something else much more concerning was happening. The north flank was bulging outwards at about 2m every day.

That is fast – and evidence of magma moving up into the volcano, forming a cryptodome within.

Growing up in Te Awamutu, reading about this eruption showed me how critical communication is.

People fought to get back into the exclusion zone that had been set up to keep them out of the area that was growing more dangerous as time went on. One man, Harry R. Truman, became a celebrity with his defiance, choosing to stay put in his home near the volcano. His story did not have a

happy ending.

Today we have plenty of footage showing what eruptions do. Volcanologists have made a VolFilms video collection to explain the volcanic processes and what they do so we can more efficiently warn people.

We have volcanologists like me dedicated to sharing what we know. We know that the right information received in the right ways can save lives and prevent enormous suffering.

A big challenge is when there is ongoing unrest like at Mount St. Helens lasting for several months.

This is especially an issue when people are evacuated. We usually cannot tell you when exactly a volcano will erupt, or exactly how big it will be, as the system of magma is constantly changing. Understandably, it is harder to stay away as time goes on.

With searing hot, very fast pyroclastic flows, flying rocks (ballistics), or volcanic floods (lahars), the way to survive is to not be there in the first place. Evacuations are our best bet.

The toughest lessons are learned when we experience great loss - 44 years ago volcanology was about to take a great leap forward in understanding unrest, eruptions, and how communities respond.

Since then, we have studied many eruptions around the world so that we can prepare and warn communities in this critical time leading to an eruption. We have the powerful lessons taught by hindsight and we push forward so that our communities can benefit from it.

submitted and going on display locally, 10 will be selected to go to Wellington for the awards. The top prize is $5000.

Entries to the awards will be exhibited in Wellington once the competition is over and put on sale and artists receive all the proceeds.

Enrich in Te Awamutu is offering a Mayor’s choice this year, with Waipā mayor Susan O’Regan set to make that selection early next week.

That artwork will not garner an individual award for its creator beyond widespread recognition, but will see the profit from its sale going back into the Enrich art gallery.

Ngawai said in previous years, entries to the IHC Art Awards were sent to Wellington for judging without being seen by the artists’ families or friends. The move to change this and allow local artists the time to have their work viewed by those closest to them is behind the decision to hold the exhibition in Te Awamutu starting tomorrow.

“It will give their families an opportunity to celebrate their works with them,” she said, “and for people in the community to see the great work they have been doing.”

The exhibit will also include a raffle for a large painting of elephants, done by Enrich art facilitator Theresa Siemonek, with input from fellow artists Peter Crawford, Julie Tate and Pauline Beuno.

Proceeds will go to Taumarunui Enrich staff member Tani McElroy, who will shave her head for Leukaemia and Blood Cancer NZ to show support for one of their clients who is battling the disease.

Flanking the painting to be auctioned on Friday are Enrich Plus Te Awamutu team manager Ngawai Hamblin, right, and Enrich art facilitator and artist Theresa Siemonek. Photo: Viv Posselt

Electric rides arrive

Waikato’s first electric bus fleet will be carrying passengers in Waipā from next Monday. Six electric vehicles are replacing diesel buses on the Cambridge (20) and Te Awamutu (24) routes. The new buses will work to a timetable that doubles the number of weekly services connecting the district to Hamilton.

Driver killed

A person died as a result of single-vehicle crash on Ellicott Rd, Parawera, east of Kihikihi last Friday

New manager

Waipā Networks has announced Tom Bromfield will join as its general manager of delivery from Monday.

Search on hold

The search in the Pureora Forest for Pukekohe Tramping Club member Judy Donovan, 79, has been suspended. She went missing on March 23 after being separated from a group laying bait as part of conservation efforts.

Spark’s flying

Spark has announced plans to invest more than $15 million into Waikato digital infrastructure to support access to cloud and connectivity services in the region. It is partnering with Waikato University to take over the management of its data centre facility on the varsity campus and operate the site as a key edge data centre. It is also investing in a new fibre backbone from Ōtorohanga to Te Kauwhata.

Kneebone sits

Waipā-King Country constituency councillor Stu Kneebone, co-chair of the Waikato River Authority, will sit on a hearings panel responsible for considering submissions on the proposed Waikato Regional Coastal plan.

Hard Ducks all in a row

By Jeremy Smith

Challenge accepted, and this team is raring to go.

As several members set their sights on defending respective national titles they won last year early next month, a group of eight Te Awamutu Hard Ducks firefighter combat challenge team members have left today for the 2024 North Island Firefighter Challenge in Palmerston North.

The two-day North Island challenge, held tomorrow and Saturday, will see competitors climbing a six storey tower carrying a length of hose, hoisting a 70mm hose coil six storeys, chopping using a 4kg shot hammer to drive a beam 1.5 metres, using a charged length of 45mm hose to knock down a disc and dragging a lifesized dummy just over 30m.

The eight-person Hard Ducks team is made up of Pirongia’s Jodi Reymer and Te Awamutu Dave Shaw, Ian Campbell, Lisa Atkinson Anna Alexander, Kelly Bennetto, Rob Willey, and Travis Elphinstone.

There are various competition categories and age ranges and the group - which has been in training since November - will compete across the gamut of both team and individual events in Palmerston North.

Bennetto and Reymer will compete in the open female category, while Atkinson and Alexander will take to the course in the over 40s female category.

Elphinstone is in the open under 40s male event, Shaw is in the over 50s male category, while Willey and Campbell are in the over 60s category.

Teams wise, Alexander and Bennetto, Reymer and Atkinson and Willey and Campbell will form respective men’s and women’s teams, while Shaw and Reymer - North Island and national title

holders - will make up a co-ed team.

The team set a time of 1m 46s last year – and has the New Zealand record in their sights, but will have to improve by 10 seconds.

Reymer is the open female national champion, Shaw is the current over 50 male champion, while Willey is the over 60s male national champion.

For Shaw, Palmerston North will be his 10th firefighter challenge since 2011.

Te Awamutu and Pirongia brigade members have also entered this year’s Firefighter Sky Tower Challenge, to be held in mid-May.

The challenge - in its 20th year - raises funds, and awareness for, Leukaemia and Blood Cancer New Zealand.

The Te Awamutu brigade has been competing in the event since 2005 and record $25,000 last year.

Waipā star Kango for it

Waikato interest in the biggest event of Cambridge Raceway’s calendar tomorrow has been boosted following a late withdrawal.

Kango, trained at Cambridge Raceway by Arna Donnelly, is a late starter in the feature race following the withdrawal of Rock N Roll Doo last weekend.

The raceway’s Night of Champions has drawn the best harness racing talent in Australasia to compete in the $1 million The Race by Grins and the inaugural $600,000 TAB Trot slot races.

It’s the third year for the

event and raceway chief Dave Branch promises it will be the best one yet.

“The quality of horses this year is unmatched, and the new TAB Trot race has just added more excitement,” he said.

“We have six horses coming over from Australia to compete so it’s truly an international event now.”

Multiple Group One winner Better Eclipse and Speak The Truth represent Australia in The Race by Grins taking on top tier Kiwis Don’t Stop Dreaming and Merlin among others.

The Aussie quartet of champion Just Believe, Queen Elida, Callmethebreeze and Arcee Phoenix take on New Zealand’s best trotters in the TAB Trot, which is being billed as one of the greatest trotting races ever staged in Australasia.

Rock N Roll Doo, who is in the country for a series of races, was pulled after being diagnosed with a hoof abscess.

Seven year old Kango is listed on the racingsandsports website as having a career record of 14

wins and 16 placings from 61 starts.

He won The Founders Cup at Alexandra Park in early March driven by David Butcher

The News earlier reported that 4000 people were at the raceway to see six-yearold champion pacer Copy That take out the $1 million feature last year – and record a 2200m track record of 2m 36.3 secs.

A temporary liquor ban will be in place on the grassed paddock to the east of Cambridge Raceway and a part of Taylor Street will

be off limits to alcohol from 4pm to 11pm in an effort to avoid problems with people “preloading”.

Celebrating Life - Your Way

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Dave Branch

The Te Awamutu Hard Ducks team - back row, from left, Jodi Reymer, Lisa Atkinson, Dave Shaw and Rob Willey. Front, Anna Alexander, Kelly Bennetto, Ian Campbell and Travis Elphinstone. Photo: Jude Shaw.

Near record number of new Kiwis

By Mary Anne Gill

104 Waipā

O’Regan

have been

doubters when the first one was held at the venue, any objections have been firmly quashed with the hall yet again packed. It just needed two of the people to turn up who were supposed to swear their allegiance but who apologised on the day and

it would have been a new record.

Waipā’s popularity among South Africans was well illustrated with 28 people becoming New Zealand citizens. The list included three people born in New Zealand but whose parents were not New Zealand citizens.

The people and their original country were: Australia, Stephanie Crawford, Shannon Dunn, Mary White. Brazil, Paulo Machado, Barbara Schultz. China, Ziqing Zhang. Czech Republic Katerina Litosova. France, Orianne Thionnet. Denmark, Isabella Andersen. Germany, Johannes Jager,

Michael Jager, Sandra Jager. India, Stella Dcosta, Aron Juno, Gurpreet Kaur, Jaspreet Kaur, Jasvir Kaur, Sandeep Kaur, Gurnoor Mann, Harwinder Mann, Deepali Surinder Sehgal, Anjal Patel, Harshil Patel, Pritpal Singh, Juno Varghese. Ireland, Johnathan Byrne, Lisa Byrne, Iarla Byrne, Fionn Byrne, Ciara Dunn, Stephanie Finch. Kenya, Charles Obiero. Kiribati, Keakea Kiare, Kiare Kuribaba, Tekima Kuribaba, Beua Tamoro. Nepal, Sarathi Poudel. New Zealand, Agam Gill, Isabell Juno, Maia Jones. Philippines, Sevah Bell, Ayanami Capones, Patricia Dungca, Antonette Dungca,

Therese Dungca. Poland, Agnieszka Ring. Samoa, Keith Walker.

South Africa, Adriaan Adendorff, Danelle Adendorff, Ellan Kalleen Beetge, Daniel Dafel, Anet Dafel, Bianca Dafel, Robert du Bruyn, Edrika Fourie, John-Tyler Hulme, Naylee Hulme, Nicolette Hulme, Gideon Marais, Gideon Marais, Tania Marais, Tiaan Marais, Willem Naudé, Daniël Oosthuizen, LouisaMarie Oosthuizen, Michélle Oosthuizen, Dylan Ring, Emily Ring, Warren Smith, Melissa Strawbridge, Marnie van de Wall, Lisa van de Wall, Marius van de Wall, Mia van de Wall, Carli

Van Zyl. Spain, Maria Beltrami. Thailand, Supakarn Grayling, Chalieo Jongchokdee, Jonathan Thoeun. United Kingdom, Ross Beale, Stacey Bell, Michaela Buhrs, Emma Fairbrother, Amanda Walker, Hugh Grant, Elizabeth Grant, Bethany Gray, Tracey Hale, Adam Hawkins, Susan Henderson, Jade Hounslow, Amanda Jones, Margaret Jones, Brian Jones, Mark Maloney, Clarke McKenzie, Leigh Mossop, Georgia Stanwix, Nicola Simmons, Alefa Vincent, Marcus Wilson. United States, Brandon Baxter, Thomas Reding.

Another

residents became Kiwis last week at the latest citizenship ceremony held in the Cambridge Town Hall. Mayor Susan

told The News that while there may

The new citizens outside the Cambridge Town Hall with Waipā mayor Susan O’Regan at the centre. Photo: Mary Anne Gill.

Pirongia’s Isabell Maria Juno was born in New Zealand but still took the oath with the rest of her family who were originally from India.

Photo: Mary Anne Gill.

Academic’s pointed Māori message

Historian Tom Roa says the coalition government is paying lip service to Māori issues.

The Waikato University professor delivered his rebuke when speaking last week at the 160th anniversary of the battle of O-Rākau.

His comments were directed to Māori development Minister Tama Potaka, the most high-profile government representative present.

And to emphasis his points he “reluctantly” broke with the protocol of the paepae to speak in English.

Roa said he felt hurt by expressions of sympathy from the government in the context of damaging actions towards Māori, in particular the dismantling of the Māori Health Authority and its support of the first reading of the Treaty Principles Bill. He later told the Good Local Media he wanted to be constructive in his contribution to the discussion, rather than inflammatory.

Roa first delivered his kōrero in te reo Māori, speaking beside a portrait of Rewi Maniapoto, who had led Māori in the O-Rākau battle.

Having switched to English he said his intention was to share a clear message to all, including those with a lesser understanding of te reo Rangatira.

While some iwi had settled with the crown, he said, people felt decidedly “unsettled” in the current political environment.

Youngsters who were heard

By Sigrid Christiansen

The contribution of Ōtorohanga college students to the teaching of Māori history was acknowledged at last week’s commemorations at O-Rākau, A significant petition, driven by the Waitomo rangatahi a decade ago, was returned as taonga to iwi.

The petition, inspired by students’ visits to O-Rākau and Rangiaowhia, called for a day to be set aside to remember the New Zealand wars.

Maniapoto had grown up knowing about O-Rākau, and found it “gobsmacking” to see other students playing and not paying attention at the battle site, Leah said..

“They had no idea where they were – they just thought it was a day out of school.”

Kiana reflected on the fact that they had not been taught about t.

“The thing that opened it up for me was our kuia being present, and hearing their mourning, their cries,” - Waimarama Anderson.

The document, featuring the 13,000 signatures the group - Leah Bell, Waimarama Anderson, Zak Henry, Tai Te Ariki Jones, Rhiannon Magee and Kiana Ormsby - collected was presented to the Government in 2015.

Then they were aged 14 going on 15, and supported by adults including Mariana Papa, deputy principal of Te Wharekura o Maniapoto.

Students who attended Te Wharekura o

So started the petition - a rangatahi driven movement, but with adult encouragement.

Their work had wide-reaching consequences.

“The biggest thing that came out was having the petition tabled at Parliament in front of the Maōri Affairs Select Committee,” Leah said.

It did result in $4 million being provided to commemorate the New Zealand wars.

A wave of public commemorations in places including Te Tai Tokerau, Waitara and O-Rākau offering “great education,” afterwards moved around the regions, albeit interrupted by Covid.”

A ripple effect flowed on from that, Leah said.

“We’ve had wonderful documentaries, like RNZ’s documentary, Stories of the New Zealand wars.”

Waimarama said she had been told that it “opened up a space for our Aboriginals to be acknowledged, in Australia, with the opening of a museum.”

“They feel similar to how we feel here.”

Leah said the introduction of education on this kaupapa in schools had been another big thing coming out of the petition.

Now in their twenties, the group remain connected through family and community.

Ingham Motor Group’s portfolio grows stronger with Cambridge dealership

Ingham Motor Group continues to move from strength to strength after acquiring its latest Cambridge-based dealership, Windsor Nissan. With a legacy in the Waikato region dating back over four decades, Ingham is excited to add another highly respected Nissan dealership to its extensive portfolio and further enhance its presence in the area. The company will take ownership of the car yard – situated at 92 Queen Street – on 1st April 2024, and once under the Ingham umbrella, Windsor Nissan will be renamed Ingham Cambridge.

As one of New Zealand’s largest family-owned automotive retailers, Ingham is proud of their strong community focus and is delighted that the dealership will continue to be led by current Dealer Principal, Ross Dodds. Plus, many existing staff will join the Ingham team, so familiar,

friendly faces will still be at hand across all departments.

“Becoming part of the Ingham family represents a new chapter for both our team and the Cambridge community” confirms Ross. “Our focus on providing a wide range of quality vehicles with exceptional service and after-sales support remains stronger than ever and we look forward to drawing on Ingham's extensive resources, knowledge and expertise.”

Group Managing Director Trent

Ingham couldn’t be happier about this new addition to the company. “Windsor Nissan is a family-owned and operated business and has been a prominent player in the market since the early 1980s, so it was an ideal fit for us,” he stated. “We feel that Nissan’s range of vehicles aligns incredibly well with the area’s needs and are thrilled to have the dealership on board.”

Ingham is committed to providing the best possible experience for customers and in the short term, will ensure the Nissan yard delivers the outstanding day-to-day operations it’s known for. However, with exciting expansion opportunities on the horizon, the group has plans to extend the dealership complex in the future, with the local team playing a pivotal role in achieving these objectives.

For more information about Ingham Cambridge, please check inghamdriven.nz/ inghamcambridge/ for updates.

Or visit the dealership for yourself, and let them help you find the perfect vehicle for your lifestyle:

Ingham Cambridge

92 Queen Street Cambridge

For media inquiries, please contact Karl Sullivan, Marketing Manager, at media@inghamdriven.nz or (09) 529 3854.

The petition is received by Waimarama Anderson, Leah Bell, Tai Te Ariki Jones and Kiana Ormsby.

2024 WARMTH Winter

Ticking off the pre winter heating checklist

Night temperatures are dropping, and the winter checklist should be a priority depending on what your heating source is.

For most homes that feature heat pumps, making sure your pumps are serviced is essential for maintaining energy ef ciency, and longevity of these heating and cooling systems.

One critical aspect is the inspection and cleaning the lters and coils. Clogged lters restrict air ow, reducing ef ciency and increasing energy consumption. Dirty coils can also impede heat transfer, affecting the pump's ability to heat or cool effectively. Cleaning or replacing lters and coils as needed helps maintain peak performance.

Additionally, checking refrigerant levels is crucial during servicing, a job which should be done by your local specialist technician. Wrong refrigerant levels can result in decreased ef ciency and potential damage to the compressor, and leaks that can harm both the environment and the system's ef ciency. Inspecting electrical connections, belts, and motors is another vital part of heat pump servicing. Loose connections or worn-out components can lead to system malfunctions or breakdowns. Lubricating moving parts and tightening electrical connections can prevent such issues. Finally, verifying the overall system performance and functionality, including the thermostat and controls, ensures the heat pump operates as intended. Professional servicing by quali ed

technicians is recommended at least annually to maintain the ef ciency and reliability of heat pump systems, helping homeowners save on energy costs and avoid unexpected repairs.

For those with woodburners, it goes without saying that your chimneys need cleaning annually. Most hardware stores carry DIY chimney cleaning kits if you want to try it yourself, but there are also professionals who do a thorough job of making sure your property is safe from any buildup in the chimney, stove and ue areas.

But it’s not just cleaning away the soot buildup.

You should check your rebox bricks every year for cracking or breaking. Once this happens, your rebox safety rating drops considerably – and also becomes

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a hazard. These bricks line the interior of the rebox, providing insulation and protection from the intense heat generated by the re. Over time, exposure to extreme temperatures and moisture can cause these bricks to crack, crumble, or become displaced.

Regular inspection allows you to identify any damage early on, preventing potential safety hazards such as res that can break through the box, or carbon monoxide leaks. Cracked or deteriorating bricks can also hinder the ef ciency of your replace, reducing its heating capacity and increasing energy costs.

Autumn is the ideal time to perform this inspection, before the replace sees the more frequent use during colder months. Before lighting the rst re of the season, take the time to

thoroughly examine the rebox bricks for any signs of wear or damage. If you notice any issues, promptly address them by repairing or replacing the affected bricks. Places like Mitre 10, Bunnings, Placemakers or common rebox manufacturing companies stock replacement bricks which are easy to install.

If gas is your preferred method of heating, it also needs to be checked this time of year.

Servicing gas heaters requires a careful balance of safety, ef ciency, and technical know-how and it needs doing by a quali ed gas tter.

Cleaning the heater's components, such as the burner, pilot assembly, and vents, is vital to prevent blockages and ensure ef cient combustion. Checking for gas leaks is a non-negotiable step, requiring a keen nose for detecting the distinctive odor of gas or using specialized equipment for detection.

Furthermore, inspecting the ignition system, thermocouple, and gas valves helps identify potential issues that could compromise the heater's functionality or safety. Adjusting the ame height and ensuring proper ventilation are additional measures to optimize performance and minimize risks like carbon monoxide buildup.

Regular servicing not only extends the lifespan of gas heaters but also provides peace of mind, knowing they're operating ef ciently and safely, warming homes without unnecessary risks.

The mystery man and the moon

At full moon Maurice Mahon often went a little strange. He was considered rather eccentric but not dangerous although he once threatened his employer, Mr Hunter, Sr, with an axe.

He had been living with William Hunter, Jr, auctioneer, at Ōhaupō for 10 years, and had been employed by the Hunter family as a labourer for over 20 years.

When Maurice wandered into the scrub one morning in late March in 1893 it was two days before a full moon and not entirely unusual behaviour. Fourteen year old Edward Shaw observed him about 10am on the railway bridge near the Ōhaupō – Alexandra Road. He turned off the bridge and headed down towards the creek. But Maurice did not look well and was hardly able to walk. Alarmed at Maurice’s disappearance Mr Hunter’s men went out looking for him but not a trace could be found despite a search being made all that day and into the next.

The following afternoon young William Delaney, out fishing near the railway bridge with some other boys, stumbled across a body about 50 yards from the water in Mr McNicol’s paddock. They immediately told Mr Hunter, Jr, who identified it as the missing Maurice.

An inquest was held in Mr Delaney’s Ōhaupō hotel. Maurice had been very guarded about himself and despite being employed so long by the Hunter family, nothing was known about him or even where he came from, except that his name was Maurice Mahon.

William Hunter, Jr, said that the last time he saw Maurice alive was the day before he disappeared. He was in bad health and complained of shortness of breath. William had taken him to hospital in early March, where he stayed about two weeks. William did not know if Maurice was married or anything about

his relations. He was of temperate habits, but he could not eat well as he said it made him ‘blow’. Full moons affected him, but William got along with him all right.

Robert Hogg, Mr Hunter’s employee, had known Maurice for 15 years. He last saw him alive the night before he disappeared. He had his tea, but ate very little. He was in his room in bed. His mind seemed to wander, and he was very sick and appeared hardly able to breathe. Robert searched for him all day after he disappeared.

Dr Brewis told the inquest Maurice had extensively diseased lungs with very great pleurisy on the left side. In his opinion the cause of death was failure of the heart’s action brought on by the condition of the lungs. The jury, without retiring, returned a verdict of ‘death from natural causes.’

Maurice was estimated to be around 50 and appeared to be from Ireland. Maurice Mahon may not have been his real name. It’s possible he was a remittance man - an emigrant supported by money paid from his overseas home. Often these were disgraced men of good families or a high position in society who were banished abroad and whose payments depended on them staying away. Just as likely he may have reinvented himself and been hiding from a previous life.

Even the location of Maurice’s grave is a puzzle, although his death was registered at Te Awamutu. Perhaps his benefactors, the Hunters, made quiet arrangements to have him finally laid to rest.

Spice Heaven delights - Fantastic fare for all

From

starters of vegetable samosas, lamb kebabs – or mixed platters that include boneless meats that have marinated overnights in their special herbs, through to some of the traditional dishes of lamb vindaloo and marsala to butter chicken and tandoori chicken along with rogan josh or biryani, there is something to delight everyone.

And don’t forget the pasta – some of the fabulous fusion of Italian best with creamy fettucine or carbonara, served with chicken or mushroom – even a beef Bolognese.

There’s more – for the vegan or vegetarian, there’s plenty to choose from in a wide-ranging menu that has both starters and mains including malai kofta, soft croquettes stuffed with cottage cheese, potatoes cooked in a rich cashew nut sauce and cream, or a variety of beautiful paneers, through to several different types of naan breads.

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Open six days a week, Spice Heaven’s hours are 2.30pm until 9pm.

Ambivalence in devotion

Phil Strong, Senior Leader, Zion

I often wonder who reads the ‘Faith’ column in the paper, that is, aside from me and the other contributors. I figure it must be people “of faith,” because we all have faith in something. (Even the choice not to believe in Jesus is faith in the assertion that He does not exist as God.)

I wonder why people read the ‘Faith’ column – are they looking to affirm their faith or find faith in something new? Ultimately, we are all searching for our truth. Some find Truth, others miss Him.

So, today, I write to those who already believe in Jesus, accept that He is the Son of God, and may follow Him. Extraneous readers, of course, are most welcome.

Consider the oxymoronic position one takes when one chooses to profess faith in Jesus and yet ignore His instruction. The contradiction is as obvious as a “John Key handshake” and just as gleeful to judging observers. So why?

Research House, Barna Group, spend their days analysing data that makes observations and commentary on the shifting metrics of Christian church demographics and activity. “What emerges [from over 20 years of research] is a nuanced portrait of people trying to figure out what faith means in the 21st Century and the role of Christianity in their lives.”

Even after Jesus left a playbook to help us live well, we are still trying to figure it out.

While the data I quote is American, I’d suggest the Te Awamutu data would be, at best, equitable, but most likely worse.

Barna cite that one in four persons surveyed were a ‘Practicing Christian,’ defining their unique measure combining three variables: “calling oneself a Christian, strongly prioritising faith and regular church attendance.”

What appears shocking to me is the reported ‘Non-Practicing Christian’ statistics at almost double that of those who practice. These respondents are self-confessed believers, but do not meet all three criteria to qualify as ‘practicing.’

How can one profess something that is, by demonstrated behaviour, revealed to be in contrast to the stated position? That’s like someone saying they identify as a sheep when they carry human chromosomes.

What is revealed, to me, as oxymoronic is statistical reality for two-thirds of Christians. The data says, “I believe” when the action says, “I’m not committed to my belief.”

This is ambivalence in devotion.

The term “Christian” was first used in a city called Antioch (in Syria) some 14 years after Jesus’ death and resurrection. A key point to note is that it was not a self-designated title, but rather a label attached to “Christ-ones” by those who observed their behaviour. Those tagged “Christian” were seen to live their lives of faith in Jesus demonstrably; obvious, undeniable, unmistakable, and verifiable.

Devoted worshippers of Jesus were followers of Jesus. These dedicated followers spoke of following “The Way” as that described their desire to live the way Jesus lived. My view is that is how you accurately describe a follower.

I recently finished reading John Mark Comer’s latest epistle, ‘Practicing The Way’. In it he presents the case for followers – read “Christians” – to be with Jesus, like Jesus and do like Jesus.

Let’s be not only believers, but those that emulate the One we say we’re devoted to. No ambivalence.

COME AND CATCH UP WITH YOUR MATES

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Quick crossword Sudoku Wordsearch

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Across 1. Unforeseen drawback (5)

4. Illustrate (6)

7. Mineral (3)

8. Lined jotter (6)

9. Underground shelter (6)

10. Latest and best (5,2,3,3)

14. Gentle push (5)

15. Bog or marsh (5)

18. Dance creator (13)

Last week

23. Soft felt hat (6)

24. Benumb (6)

25. Badger (3)

26. In conclusion (6)

27. Adversary (5)

Down

1. Diddle (5)

2. Sully (5)

3. Empty inside (6)

4. Teams argument (6)

5. Type of pasta (5)

6. Shout in praise (5)

10. Relating to sound (5)

11. Relating to hearing or sound (5)

12. Flooded (5)

13. Gradually reduce (5)

16. Study of plants (6)

17. Grievance (6)

19. African scavenger (5)

20. Perch (5)

21. Tranquillity (5)

22. Poem for the dead (5)

Across: 1. Famous, 5. Impose, 8. Won, 9. Grille, 10. Tartan, 11. Bait, 13. Vendetta, 14. Lying, 15. Terms, 19. Lacerate, 21. Ease, 22. Liaise, 23. Turban, 25. Boa, 26. Tuxedo, 27. Ragged.

Down: 2. Already, 3. Oil, 4. Swerve, 5. Intone, 6. Persevere, 7. Scant, 12. Tangerine, 16. Mistake, 17. Gazebo, 18. Nectar, 20. Adieu, 24. Rag.

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ARENA

BREECHES

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GYMKHANA

HAND

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JUMP

MANE

MARE

MILE NOVICE PACER POLO PONY RACE REFUSAL RIBBON RIDER ROAN ROSETTE SADDLE SHOW

SKEWBALD STABLE STALLION STIRRUP STRAW TACK TRACK TRIALS TROPHY TROT WALK WHIP

All puzzles © The Puzzle Company

Last week

A dark romance about desire and obsession, set in the world of Formula 1, for fans of Sylvia Day, Ana Huang, Penelope Douglas and The Idea of You.

Rush by Saskia Roy

His desire will consume her. And all she can do is surrender.

Lena Aden came to Los Angeles to make it big as a writer. Five years later, she’s still chasing the dream and wondering if it’s time to start over.

Nico Laurent is the Formula 1 World Champion – and the most desirable bachelor in the world. He’s used to getting any woman he wants, and he’s decided he wants Lena.

After their first night together, Lena can’t get Nico out of her head. She engineers a second meeting and suddenly Lena is pulled into a heady world of fast cars, parties, and money. Lena has never been so reckless – and she likes it.

It’s clear that Lena and Nico’s passion can’t be denied. But with a heat like this, someone is going to get burned . . . 381

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

SASKIA ROY has been an F1 fan for over 20 years and is uniquely placed to take readers into the world of F1. She has written for The New York Times, The Guardian, The Financial Times, The Times, The Telegraph and the BBC among others. Rush is her debut erotic thriller.

Sprinting to the top

By Peter Nicholl

Waipa District Council’s debt level on June 30, 2022, was $149.5 million. A year later it was $226 million, a rise of 51 per cent.

By June it is projected to be $296.8 million, a rise of 31 per cent. The Council’s plan for 2024-25 has the debt level rising to $397.3 million at up another 34 per cent.

Mayor Susan O’Regan said in a statement recently that it was ‘inching towards its debt ceiling’. I wouldn’t describe a rise in the level of debt of 166 per cent over three years as ‘inching’. It would be better described as sprinting.

This got me thinking about debt ceilings in general. The debt ceiling that gets the most publicity is the one applied to federal debt in the United State.

It seems to get neat this ceiling every six months or so. Alarmist stories fill the media of the dire consequences if the US breaches this ceiling.

A political drama unfolds and with days, or sometimes hours left before the deadline, the ceiling is increased. This has now happened 74 times in the US in the last 40 years.

The political drama has become a political farce and the US debt ceiling isn’t taken seriously by financial markets.

The debt ceiling that the Waipa District Council faces isn’t a farce. It is a serious limit with real consequences. The maximum level of the limit is not set by council. It is set by the New Zealand Local Government Funding Agency. The level is currently 290 per cent of the council’s revenue. Waipa gets almost all the money it borrows from this agency.

Waipa has prudently imposed a tighter borrowing limit on itself, at 250 per cent of

revenue. The council can change this limit, and they did two years ago when they raised it from 150 per cent.

It is unlikely to do this as they need some borrowing space in case a disaster or emergency.

Is the rapid rise in Waipa’s debt a problem? Clearly, their debt levels can’t continue to rise by 30 per cent a year beyond 2024-25 or they will breach the agency limit. Waipa says the debt build-up is temporary and caused by the rapid growth.

Councils in other growing areas, like Hamilton and Tauranga, are facing the same rapid build-up in debt. The costs of putting in place the infrastructure that growth requires – roads, storm-water etc – fall on councils at the beginning of a development cycle.

The council will receive revenue from developers and builders in the form of development contributions and building resource fees later in the cycle.

In these circumstances, it is appropriate for a council in a growth-area like Waipa to use borrowing rather than rate increases to finance this development infrastructure.

But when the development revenue streams begin to come in over the next few years, the council’s debt level should fall, both as a ratio of revenue and in absolute terms. The debt strategy looks sensible. But we will only know for sure in three of four years.

It is the latter part of this cycle that governments and councils often get wrong. As the extra revenue finally comes in, they are tempted to spend.

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