Te Awamutu News | May 9, 2024

Home Show This Weekend

Board criticised in report

By Mary Anne Gill

Community board chairs Ange

Holt and Jo Davies-Colley have been brutally honest in an assessment of their own performances tabled in a paper to Waipā councillors this week.

It has been a chaotic six months for both community boards with Holt getting offside with councillors and staff over plans for Te Awamutu Memorial Park and Davies-Colley stepping up when the Cambridge Connections “Blue Blob” debacle over the placement of a third bridge corridor through a Cambridge suburb turned to custard.

But a review of community boards’ role predated all this when the council adopted in July 2022 the recommendations of Equip Consultancy’s Steven Finlay to make community boards function better and be more relevant.

This followed attempts by the previous council to get rid of the community boards.

Holt took “full responsibility” for her style and tone around issues such as the Memorial Park stoush while Davies-Colley said she recognised the need to build relationships in the community so the board could be better advocates.

A report card presented to the council’s Strategic Planning and Policy committee this week was the first opportunity to see how community boards are faring and set them 24-month goals. Te Awamutu got a 40 per cent pass mark while Cambridge attained 60 per cent. Similar assessments are not required of councillors but if they were Waipā residents might say the council elected representatives themselves “could do better”.

The paper does say councillors

on community boards – Mike Montgomerie and Philip Coles at Cambridge; Bruce Thomas and Lou Brown at Te Awamutu-Kihikihi –should up their game and take better opportunities to update community board members at meetings.

Governance manager Jo Gread told the committee there were genuine opportunities “but also very real concerns” which warranted specific recommendations and support for the community boards.

The harshest criticism came from Holt whose comments prompted staff to publish responses alongside her monthly chair’s report.

“Finding our way is still taking time. We are struggling to get things right and this is causing conflict,”

Holt said.

“We are raising issues that our community are raising, like fluoridation, the proposed incinerator, heritage signs, Holmes Garage and

questioning levels of service. The continual push back is incredibly frustrating.

“We are frustrated that one of the most important issues for us from the first review was to have our input from the community put forward at the point in the process where it could make a difference and yet again we are at the tail end where we will just make a submission to an Annual Plan and Long Term Plan that has already been largely decided. they could do better following weeks of criticism,” she said.

Finlay’s November update to the council on the boards’ progress was considered in a behind closed doors workshop and was released for the first time this week.

He noted the Te Awamutu-Kihikihi board “urgently” needed mentoring and training on mitigating the flow on issues and consequences from the Memorial Park debate.

Opposition to the proposals has been a constant thorn in the council’s side since March 2020 when the first draft put forward plans for heritage features including the pond, the gateways and the Peace Fountain. Holt’s opposition has at times been vehement.

The council brought in Linda Hutchings, a Waikato trainer and mentor, to work with Holt.

The leadership training was “valuable and supported my interpretation of the various situations I have found myself in,” said Holt.

“Issues of ‘style and tone’ especially in written and verbal communications by Te Awamutu Community Board are clouding genuine progress, and the gains that are underway,” said Finlay and the Memorial Park issue was damaging trust in the board.

Support from staff was “fragile” due to risks to staff safety and wellbeing, he said.

“Staff also report being closely monitored by community members in Memorial Park. This is unacceptable, and although not the direct responsibility of the community board, is potentially a consequence of tacit or explicit approval of the anti-council sentiment being expressed by specific members of the public at board meetings,” said Finlay.

“It is a worrying trend that throughout New Zealand frontline council officers are subjected to more abuse than at any other time, while trying to diligently serve the public as neutral council officers and staff.”

Holt accepted the recommendations and said she looked forward to the next six months by trying to be “solution focused”.

It’s the show where you can buy everything from items for the home to sheep. And, if you like, take a jetboat ride.

The three day Waipā Home and Leisure Show at Karāpiro is a first for the district and opens tomorrow (Friday) morning.

The domain is well used to having thousands of people converging on it for major events – and this is a new one. Almost 80 retailers have booked stands in the Sir Don Rowlands Centre.

The event is being brought to Waipā by Good Local Media – publishers of the Cambridge News, Te Awamutu News, King Country News and Waikato Business News.

The company’s advertising director Janine Davy – no stranger to organising major home and leisure expos, says response to the event has been so good she is already planning a bigger event in 2025.. See inside your copy of The News today for our eight page feature on the show.

Community board chairs Jo Davies-Colley (Cambridge), left, and Ange Holt (Te Awamutu & Kihikihi), right before this week’s meeting about their performances. Photo: Mary Anne Gill.

Grey Power

AGM 23rd of May 2024

(please note there is no meeting on the 16th of May)

Inviting all past, present and intending members

Waipa Workingmen’s Club

Thursday the 23rd of May 2024 1pm for a 1.30pm start

Guest Speaker: Michael Cullen talking about A yacht Race called The Coastal Classic, Auckland to Russell in the BOI. The Race that Changed Lives Refreshments will be available at the meeting

Contact Bernard on 0274916763 if needed.

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CONTACTS

News/Editorial

Roy Pilott editor@goodlocal.nz

027 450 0115

Mary Anne Gill maryanne@goodlocal.nz

021 705 213

Viv Posselt viv@goodlocal.nz

027 233 7686

Advertising Director

Janine Davy janine@goodlocal.nz

027 287 0005

Owner/Publisher

David Mackenzie david@goodlocal.nz

Office/Missed Deliveries

07 827 0005 admin@goodlocal.nz

Kiwi House’s wētā workshop

By Sigrid Christiansen

They have been around for millions of years, often don’t live long enough to celebrate a second birthday – and without human help they will die out.

So the opening of a new wing at the Ōtorohanga Kiwi House last weekend was a big moment for the Māhoenui giant wētā.

The facility comprises laboratories devoted to raising the insects and animal training, and quarantine facilities.

Giant wētā numbers have plummeted as a consequence of the introduction of mammals and possums into New Zealand and their conservation status is listed as threatened –nationally critical.

It is thought they were once present throughout lowland forests in Waikato – so the discovery of a population on farmland owned by the Rauputu family at Māhoenui, 20km south west of Piopio, in 1962 was regarded as significant. The Conservation Department bought the land and turned it into a reserve where goats and gorse are protected.

Gorse – another introduced pest – provides a sanctuary from rats, hedgehogs and possums and browsing goats encourages regrowth.

Marae in the Piopio, Āria and Māhoenui

areas - the Mōkau ki Runga hapū – gifted the name ‘Taonga o Kawakawa’, the treasure of Kawakawa to the new wing at Ōtorohanga’s Kiwi House.

Kawakawa is the name of the land on which the Māhoenui Giant Wētā Scientific Reserve is sited.

Present for the opening were conservation minister Tama Potaka and Taranaki-King Country MP Barbara Kuriger.

Potaka acknowledged community support in caring for the wētā. .

“The mahi that’s been done with the Māhoenui giant wētā probably wouldn’t have happened without the Rauputu family pitching in and putting their taonga into this kaupapa,” he said.

Marina and Ngātai Rauputu, on whose land the Māhoenui giant wētā was originally identified were also present.

It was also revealed at the weekend that the Kiwi House had hatched 140 wētā offspring, and about 100 were likely to reach breeding age.

General manager Jo Russell said the new facility was purpose built for breeding the giant wētā and a second group were breeding “Females can lay up to 300 eggs so we expect to be very busy when they begin to hatch next year.”

The Māhoenui giant wētā is one of the

On the beat with Constable Ryan Fleming

The week in review

Here’s how last week looked for Te Awamutu police staff…

Monday: We attended a sudden death at Waikeria Prison. Police received a report of a theft, attended a minor motor vehicle collision and attended a self-harm incident.

A motor vehicle was unlawfully taken from an address in Te Awamutu. Police attended a family harm incident where a Police Safety Order was breached. A male allegedly threatened his former employer over an employment dispute.

Tuesday: Police located a missing teenager, attended a minor motor vehicle collision and a family harm matter. A vehicle failed to stop for Police, Police received a report of a shoplifter, attended a self-harm incident, a burglary, a shoplifting incident at a supermarket, two burglaries at rural properties and a family harm incident at a rural property.

Wednesday: Police attended a burglary and a family harm incident. A motor bike failed to stop for police and police executed a search warrant to seize the motor vehicle involved.

A shoplifter was reported at a supermarket, a male was forbidden from driving until he obtained a licence, a

shoplifter was reported, three youths were arrested for shoplifting, police attended a family harm incident.

Thursday: Four warrants to arrest issued in the Te Awamutu District Court. A male was stopped and his vehicle impounded for driving while disqualified. Police attended a sudden death, two people were arrested for breaching bail and police attended a family harm matter.

Friday: Police arrested a male while he was committing a burglary, and a male was arrested for threatening behaviour. Police received multiple reports of shoplifting. A vehicle failed to stop for Police,

Saturday: A male was arrested for breaching bail. Police received reports of inappropriate use of firearms by duck shooters and attended a shoplifting. We also attended a fatal motor vehicle crash and a family harm incident.

Sunday: A male breached his electronically monitored bail. Police attended a burglary at a school, four family harm incidents, a male was arrested on drugs charges and we attended a family harm incident and an assault matter.

world’s largest insects, measuring up to seven centimetres and weighing about 15 grams. It is found in only four places in the North Island.

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Kiwi House manager Jo Russell with a Māhoenui giant wētā. Photo Sigrid Christiansen

Road fatality

A Waipā man died following a crash involving a motorcycle on Flat Road, Kihikihi on Saturday evening.

Consents down

Resource consent applications are down four for the quarter ended March 31 compared to the previous three months, Waipā’s Strategic Planning and Policy committee heard this week. The 77 consents comprised 43 for land use and 34 for subdivisions. Meanwhile 276 Land Information Memorandums (Lims) –up from 247 – were also processed.

Parking pings

Motorists continue to rack up parking fines in Te Awamutu and Cambridge with 437 infringements issued from January 1 to March 31. Most were for overstaying in time limited parking in the two towns.

Building proceeds

Four significant projects feature among building consents totalling $46 million for the quarter ended March 31, down from $77.9 million in the same time frame last year. Roading for the Cambridge Summerset retirement village, a new church and community centre in Te Awamutu and remedial works Te Awamutu.

Dairy Awards

Waipā is well represented at the New Zealand Dairy Industry Awards to be announced this weekend. Among the finalists are Logan and Sian Dawson (Ōhaupō) in the share farmers category and Kirwyn Ellis (Pirongia) in the dairy trainee section.

Arvida in Retirement health provider

Arvida has taken over the development of elderly accommodation in Waipā’s 41ha western Te Awamutu T2 residential zone. The publicly listed company has 35 communities throughout New Zealand including Lauriston Park in Leamington.

333: The mark of success

By Viv Posselt

A series of free meetings tomorrow and Saturday signals an important stage in the launch of a book chronicling seven years of research into Te Awamutu’s historically rich architecture.

It will bring the public up to date with progress, and organisers hope it will boost the pre-sales vital to giving printers the green light.

The target for pre-sales is 333. Research for the book, entitled ‘A Bricks & Mortar Legacy: Stories of Commercial Buildings in Te Awamutu 1890–1957’, has been led by members of the Te Awamutu branch of the New Zealand Society of Genealogists. It has been authored by Alan Hall and Sandra Metcalfe and covers the stories of 32 local buildings.

Earlier public meetings about the book have been popular, and now, with the July 1 print date looming, the community will be updated this week.

The May 10-11 line-up at the Te Awamutu Library will cover the importance of preserving built heritage, DNA as a tool for genealogists and how to research your home. It will also feature talks by New Zealand architects FC Daniell and Archie Macdonald – both of whom have designed some of the buildings included in the book.

Metcalfe said the road to this point had been a long one. “Once

we go to print on July 1, we will have a hard copy available to show people exactly what this quality coffee-table type publication looks like. From July 1, it will then take about four months for the book to be delivered back to New Zealand and distributed.”

Earlier this year, the genealogy society said the only cost-effective way they could bring the book out was to pre-sell copies to fund publishing

and marketing costs. The authors’ work has been pro-bono, and the Te Awamutu Chamber of Commerce stepped up to offer support the initiative with a sales channel.

A portion of the initial print-run target of 500 had to be pre-sold to make the arrangement financially viable. Metcalfe said on Monday that they have received 198 prepublication orders to date.

“Our break-even point is 333

copies, and we want to achieve that before we go to print on July 1,” she said. “We are well into steering the project to fruition. The key though is to keep those pre-sales levels up so we reach that number of 333 before July 1.”

Meetings from 12pm tomorrow will include displays and short talks on the topics and will offer information on how to purchase the book.

New CEO for Waipā unveiled

By Mary Anne Gill

Steph O’Sullivan has returned to her Waikato roots with confirmation this week she will be Waipā’s new chief executive from late August.

O’Sullivan was born and brought up in Tokoroa where her grandfather Bernie O’Sullivan was deputy mayor and councillor on the then borough council.

In recent times, she has been chief executive at Whakatāne District Council leading the organisation through the Whakaari (White Island) eruption response.

Waipā mayor Susan

O’Regan said the recruitment process had been comprehensive. There were 84 applicants for the job left vacant by the resignation of long-standing chief executive Garry Dyet.

The LinkedIn response to her appointment showed how well respected O’Sullivan is with congratulations across the sector, including from regional council chair Pamela Storey, Hamilton deputy mayor Angela O’Leary, Waikato mayor Jacqui Church and chief executive Gavin Ion.

The job ahead of O’Sullivan is expected to be

challenging with residents’ survey numbers at an all-time low and ebbing confidence thanks to the charade that was Cambridge Connections.

O’Sullivan attended Forest View High School in Tokoroa and Massey University where she graduated with an honours double major in Planning and Development Studies.

She began her management career as Environment group manager at Ruakawa Charitable Trust in Tokoroa and as chief executive for Ngāti Ranginui Iwi Society. Before her five and a half year stint

at Whakatāne, O’Sullivan was with the government’s Provincial Growth Fund based in Bay of Plenty. She has also held governance roles in the Waikato River Authority, Waikato River Trails Trust, Tauranga People’s Project and chaired the advisory board for Waikato University’s High Performance Centre in Mount Maunganui.

“My background has given me valuable insight into the challenges, opportunities and partnership potential between local and central government, iwi, the private sector and the community,”

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The book’s authors, Sandra Metcalfe and Alan Hall, addressing an earlier meeting on the new book.

Steph O’Sullivan

O’Sullivan was quoted as saying on Whakatāne District Council’s website.

BACK or NECK PAIN?

Then try a Teeter

WHY

Because they work! Spinal traction is the oldest recorded medical cure for back issues, rst documented by Hippocrates in 400BC, spinal traction was used successfully for many year’s in modern hospitals however because it was a slow process and tied up hospital beds for long periods, was dropped in favor of surgery, which is considerably faster.

A new study recently published in the Journal of Physical Therapy Science brings good news to people struggling with sciatica and lumbar disc disease: surgery may not be your only option for relief. Researchers at Newcastle University found that inversion therapy with a Teeter inversion table o ers back pain and symptoms relief in sciatica patients and may even allow them to avoid surgery altogether.

The case-controlled study evaluated the e ects of regular inversion therapy on the pain symptoms of sciatica patients in line for surgery. The purpose of the study was to, “[measure] symptoms and [compare] the surgery rate following inversion for 85 participants with the surgery rate in 3 control groups.”

Researchers found that lumbar disc disease and sciatica patients in line for surgery who inverted with a Teeter inversion table regularly, were 78% less likely to need surgery than matched individuals who didn’t invert, even as far as two years after the initial trial period.

The study suggests, “…inversion therapy reduces symptoms and the rate of surgery in patients with lumbar disc disease and sciatica.”

Using a Teeter is gentle and relaxing if done properly

WHY TEETER?

Because they are unquestionably the safest, strongest, most comfortable (especially on the ankles) and easiest to operate, Inversion table in the world. Teeter are also the only Inversion tables to meet any and all safety standards for Inversion tables as well as being the only ones FDA approved.

A decision was made by U.L (the top testing facility in the U.S) to test the ve most common brands of Inversion Tables on the U.S market. Teeter was the only brand to pass all tests. All other brands structurally failed in all tests! In the strength test, the best of the cheaper brands structurally failed at only 40% of the test and the worst at 18%. In the endurance test (daily use) the best of the cheaper brands structurally failed at only 12% of the test and the worst at 7%.

Inversion helps to:

• Relieve Back Pain

• Relieve Neck Pain

• Relieve Muscle Tension

• Stimulate Blood And Lymph Flow

• Improve Posture

• Increase Flexability

This is why we only promote Teeter, Inversion is for life, a few minutes of daily use long after your back issues have gone, will help to keep you t and healthy.

I T IS P UR E LOGI C AS TO HOW THE TEETER TABLE WORKS

Discs: It uses gravity to apply traction, the traction gently opens the discs and as they open up they create suction, this suction draws uid from the surrounding tissue back into the discs, re-hydrating them. This is the key! Discs do not have their own blood supply, they rely on trans fer of uid from the surrounding tissue to keep them healthy and hydrated and over the years as discs get thinner with age, they lose the ability to take on uid (just like squeezing a sponge) and they start to de-hydrate.

De-Hydrated discs are less exible, they are harder, more prone to injury, they interfere with nerve roots creating pain and ultimately the de-hydration causes degen eration. The Teeter Inversion table slowly and gently brings the hydration back into the discs, plumping them up. It separates the nerve roots far more e ectively and returns quality of life

Muscles: A lot of pain is muscular, when muscles are stressed they become tight which restricts the ow of blood and lymph through the muscles so toxins build up, Co2 and Lactic Acid. Traction opens up the muscles, Rhythmic Traction, is a gentle rocking motion that stimulates circulation and encourages blood ow through the muscles, which clears the lactic acid into your lymph system where it stimulates lymph ow and deals with it. Most people with serious neck issues see a large improvement after only one treatment.

Posture:

Poor posture is one of the major cases of pain and is a major contributor to the deterioration of the body with age. A di erence in leg length causes most of the hip and k nee issues, as they continue to place uneven loads on the joints; similar to the wheels out of alignment on your car.

Trying to correct posture is extremely di cult due to muscle memory, as it constantly pulls the muscles back to where they were. At a level of 40 degrees or more on the Teeter, the muscle groups open up and eventually come back into alignment, using the table daily, does not allow the muscle memory to pull them back out of alignment and slowly the muscles start to lose their memory and go with the ow, allowing the body to come back into correct posture. Then using the table once a day will ensure it is kept there.

This is pure logic, if a machine is out of alignment it does not last long, the only di erence between the body and a machine is that the body is constantly repairing itself, however if the wear and tear on the body is greater than the body’s ability to repair itself, it is a slow decline. The Teeter slowly brings the body out of its decline and allows the body to repair itself, resulting in a far healthier life.

If you are serious about investing in your health and really sorting your issues out, come see us at one of our local roadshows, you have nothing to lose and chances are, a lot to gain.

Our Back Pain Expos

We host a number of back pain expos throughout the country almost every weekend, these expos are a way for people to try out a Teeter Inversion Table and feel the bene ts for themselves in a way that is instructive and informative.

It is also a great way for people who already own a Teeter to come along and get a refreshment course on the use and operation of their Table and clear any questions they have about it.

Sessions run continuously from 10am to 4pm and there are no bookings required, just come along at a time that suits you. There may be a wait during certain times and in these instances chairs are set out for anyone waiting for a turn, or anyone who just wants to ask us a few questions.

We strive to cover the entire country and always try to book the most accessible venues we can. All our upcoming shows in the region are listed in the blue bar below, otherwise check out our website for more www.inversionnz.co.nz/agenda

BACK PAIN EXPO

Thames Citizens Band Hall, 301 Queen Street

Waipa Home & Leisure Show

Sir Don Rowlands Centre, Mighty River Domain, Lake Karapiro 601 Maungatautari, Karapiro

Saturday and Sunday 12th & 13th February 10am - 4pm

Friday and Saturday 10 & 11 May – 10am to 5pm | Sunday 12 May 10am to 4pm

Frank Harwood (84 at time of picture) using his Teeter, Frank’s been Inverting for over eleven years and has found it keeps him young

Menzshed in mourning

Members of the Te Awamutu Community Menz Shed are mourning the loss in April of two longstanding members of their organisation.

David ‘Taffy’ Francis, and Erick Saunders were Menz Shed members for some years.

Taffy Francis, was born into a coal-mining family in Wales in 1933, the youngest in a family of three. At the age of 15 he began work on a local dairy farm, then came to New Zealand in 1961.

He worked in Taranaki on dairy farms, married Maureen, a school teacher, and in 1965 the couple moved to Hinuera in the Waikato, then to Te Puke, before eventually settling on their own dairy farm at Arohena. However, health problems meant selling the farm and moving to Te Awamutu.

It was here that Taffy met Colin Hall, later to become founder of the Te Awamutu Community Menz Shed. Colin encouraged him to become involved in the local community, and Taffy later joined the Menz Shed. For the next nine years he was the ‘tea man’, always having

tea and biscuits, a kind word and quick back-chat, ready at exactly 10am, smoko-time. It wasn’t until some years on that it was established that Taffy had been regularly paying for purchase of the tea and biscuits himself. He was, says Te Awamutu Menz Shed chairman Richard Cato, “an amazing Sheddie, giving his all to the shed. And Taffy was always a Welshman – he carried his staunch Welsh accent all has life.” Taffy died on April 17, 2024, aged 91. Erick Saunders was born in Frankton in 1937, the fifth in a family of six. At the age of 18 he began working on a

Not

farm at Ōtorohanga, and he later took up sharemilking in that district. He bought his first farm at Pukeatua in 1968, moving to a larger property at Arohena in 1978. By coincidence, his farm was not far from Taffy Francis’ property, and the two became good friends. Erick and his wife Amy weathered some tough times on the farm, with his practical skills being used to help supplement their income. Among other things he bred New Zealand white rabbits for their meat. He was also greatly interested in wildlife and hunting, being a member

of the New Zealand Acclimatisation Society, a skilled taxidermist, and long-time deerstalker and game-bird shooter. Erick and Amy had a family of four, and he became a popular and practical leader of Scouts and Guides in the Arohena district.

He retired from farming in 2002, when he and Amy moved into Te Awamutu. It was there Erick continued his hobby of woodturning, and in 2012 was one of the founding members of the Te Awamutu Community Menz Shed when it was established in Raeburn Road.

Menz Shed chairman Richard Cato says Erick was always ready and willing to help others, and had a very understanding ear for those who had problems or concerns.

“He was the unofficial welfare officer for our Menz Shed, and he was greatly respected for the many kindnesses he did for our members and others. He was a very skilful man, and could turn his hand to all sorts of practical things.”

Erick died on April 22, 2024, aged 87.

Grants value underlined

By Roy Pilott

An appeal not to gut their discretionary grant allocation will be part of the Te Awamutu-Kihikihi Community Board’s submission on Waipā District Council’s long term plan.

Member Jill Taylor warned at the board’s latest meeting the proposed cuts would be devastating.

The plan will be signed off at the end of June after the council considers submissions.

At their latest meeting members heard further applications from some of the 16 groups seeking a total of just over $36,000 for help to get them over humps, rather than entirely fund operations.

In 2023 29 groups sought $55,000.

One such worthy 2024 case was put up by the Te Awamutu Football Club when representatives Dave Hall and Dave O’Keefe outlined the club’s work in providing junior football.

It was seeking $1000 towards an upgrade of toilet facilities – and provision of a drinking fountain - at Selwyn Park.

The club boasts six senior and 34 junior teams and when Selwyn Park – one of three venues it uses - is catering for over 300 people on a Saturday, toilet and drinking facilities are found wanting.

Hall explained the club owned the building on the park was responsible for its maintenance. It had already added a second toilet and was budgeting for a total spend of $3500 for the latest project.

“I didn’t realise how popular your sport was,” Taylor said.

Among other applications were two for $5000 – one from the Kihikihi Alpha Restoration Fund and the other from the Te Awamutu Light Operatic Scoiety.

Ko Wai Au Trust wanted $1440 to support young people obtain learner licences and, looking for just $250, the Waikato Role-Playing Guild wanted help for an event it planned in Waipā.

Taffy Francis,

Erick Saunders

FIRST FOR WAIPA REGION

Public transport: the way to go

Public transport, the Te Huia railway connection between Auckland and Hamilton and cycleways continue to make headlines in the Waikato. Senior writer Mary Anne Gill spent time in the United Kingdom and Europe recently and made these observations.

The man on the tube was deadly serious when he said he had given up cycling in London because it was too dangerous.

Two trips to hospital with broken collar bones after motorists unexpectedly opened their car doors and other close calls had put him off cycling from his Waterloo home to work.

When I told him about our cycleways in Waipā, how cyclists could safely travel around Cambridge, Te Awamutu and Kihikihi, he wanted to know more about house prices, schools and job opportunities.

He shook his head in disbelief when I said there was vocal opposition to cycleways and cyclists like me often cop abuse for no other reason than we choose to use them.

Now I realise it is unfair of me to simplify the views of Waipā naysayers – obvious mistakes have been made in the rush to make clever use of Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency funds secured before the change of government. I also believe history will reinforce the wisdom of establishing cycleways in Waipā.

The health benefits are obvious, so too that more people are using them and that children are cycling to school again when for years the norm was for their parents to drop them off in cars.

New Zealand’s public transport system is so far behind what I saw on my recent travels. Here car is king, there they are paupers.

An experience of travelling the 65kms from London’s Gatwick Airport north to Staines-uponThames illustrated what we are missing.

I had been in the Channel Islands and flew from Guernsey – population 64,421 with a truly accessible public transport fleet of

buses with 24 routes that take you affordably around the 62 square kilometre island.

I spent four days hopping on and off buses while sight-seeing using their equivalent of our Bee Card.

The plane left Guernsey two hours late due to storms in the UK so when I arrived at Gatwick, it was 9.40pm. I dreaded the prospect of getting to Staines late at night on my own using public transport and seriously considered booking a

hotel room for the night.

But I got caught up in a queue for the trains as soon as I passed through security, bought a rail ticket to Staines for £12.50 (about $26) and boarded a train for Victoria Station changing at Clapham Junction, several platforms down from the one I alighted at.

Free wi fi on the train made checking timetables and platform numbers a breeze.

At 10.45pm, I crossed the road

from Staines Railway Station to catch the 117 bus for £1.50 ($3.15); by 10.55pm I was outside my mother’s front door and 10 minutes later tucked up in bed.

Astonishing really – I had travelled nearly 450 kilometres from Guernsey to Gatwick and another 65kms to Staines in just over two hours.

I concede I was lucky, it seemed just as I arrived anywhere, so too did a train or a bus. Or is that usual?

Two days after I left to return home, there was industrial action on the Southwestern Railway which services Staines. The train drivers went on strike again for better pay and conditions and there was a reduced service on a Bank Holiday weekend.

So, my hour-long journey from Gatwick to Staines might have taken three hours. Except I would not have attempted it and would have instead either booked a £95 ($200) room at the airport for the night or paid £95 - £120 ($200-$250) for a taxi.

The benefits of public transport are all too often overlooked in New Zealand and part of the reason for that is its piecemeal availability. You simply cannot rely on it; try going 65kms anywhere here on three modes of public transport in an hour.

Mary Anne Gill high above Guernsey looking towards Castle Cornet in St Peter Port. Travelling around the island was effortless on public transport.

Riders in the pink

By Mary Anne Gill

Donna McCauley likes nothing more than feeling the wind in her hair and experiencing the adrenalin which comes from riding a Harley Davidson motorbike.

Turns out the Te Awamutu 50-something woman is not alone with nearly 300 fellow female bike riders turning up in Cambridge on Saturday for the International Female Riders Day.

The global event is into its 18th year and on the first Saturday of May annually celebrates the cultural, social and active lifestyles of women who ride and enjoy motorcycling and powersports.

Add to that revving up the throttles while

parked outside Cambridge Town Hall for the event to get underway.

The Waipā version was hosted by the Waikato community of Litas, a female motorcycle gang founded in 2015 by two moto-obsessed women in Salt Lake City, Utah.

Co-founder Paige Macy had used the name Litas to tag her art and thought it sounds like a “sweet” name to describe female motorcyclists.

The event was opened by Waipā mayor Susan O’Regan outside the Town Hall.

The event takes place in 120 countries and is a very visible shout out for gender equality, awareness and respect for women in motorcycling and encourages other

women to take up the activity.

“As an unashamed feminist the words describing this event resonate with me,” said O’Regan who confessed to staying off motorbikes since she fell of a Yamaha farm bike as a girl.

O’Regan gave Sally Johnson’s Panda motorbike the Mayor’s Choice award.

Donna McCauley started riding motorbikes 10 years ago and got her learner’s licence when she was 42.

“I don’t know why I started. I’d never driven dirt bikes or anything and I just saw all these females who had a bike licence and thought that was for me.”

She bought a new Harley Davidson Low Rider 1690cc bike for $25,000 in 2016 and it sports the licence plate MZHOG.

The route for the 100km ride on Saturday took in Lake Karāpiro, where riders

had lunch, and the back roads around Mangakino, Arapuni and the Waipā district. It ended with a dinner at the Cambridge Raceway.

Road users did a double take particularly as many of the riders had decorated their bikes while others wore costumes for the event, some sporting pink tutus.

It is McCauley’s fifth time in the international ride which will be held in Taranaki next year.

“There’s nothing like feeling the wind in your hair and that little bit of adrenaline that goes with riding a motorbike.”

And it is just as well she is unrecognisable underneath the helmet and leathers as McCauley says she likes to swear out loud while riding.

But you will not see her if it is raining.

“I hate riding in the wet weather.”

Waipā rider Donna McCauley on her Harley Davidson with friend Mel Duff of Hamilton wait on the Cambridge Town Hall piazza for the International Female Riders’ Day to get underway. Photo: Mary Anne Gill.

Hitting the road: Female motorbike riders head out for Saturday’s ride around the Waikato as part of International Female Riders’ Day.

Photo: Mary Anne Gill.

Don’t miss out on the region’s biggest home and leisure show

10AM - 5PM Fri & Sat Sun 10AM - 4PM

WEEKE ND 10-12 MAY 2024

@ SIR DON ROWLANDS CENTRE, Mighty River Domain, Lake Karapiro, 601 Maungatautari Rd, Karapiro, Cambridge

FREE PARKING Gate 2

Children under 12yrs Free Adults $5 Outside Playground

The wait is over, Waipā now has its very own Home and Leisure Show, and the Good Local Media team is buzzing with excitement after months of preparation.

Advertising director Janine Davy - who came up with the concept and has taken it through to fruition - said the three-day show starting tomorrow (Friday) at Lake Karāpiro was a rst for the region.

“We’ve got 78 exhibitors o ering the latest trends for the home and garden, plus there’s food”/liquor, leisure activities, jet boat rides down the Waikato River and a kids’ playground.

Centre venue is perfect for it.”

Home and Leisure shows are common in cities like Hamilton, Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch which drag people into the big smoke.

They o er highly bene cial opportunities for the exhibitors but often result in lost sales for the regions. Often ticket prices prohibit the whole family from attending which is why show tickets are $5 for Adults and Children Under 12 are free.

“That’s why we’re so thrilled to have our own Waipā Home and Leisure Show and we’re expecting visitors not only from nearby Cambridge and Te Awamutu but

This is a zero waste event - bring your own reusable bag

community newspapers

Waikato Business

Good Local Media advertising director Janine Davy, right, with team members Liz Beyleveld and Daniel Davy,(absent Joanne Poole) prepare exhibitor packs for the Waipā Home and Leisure Show at Lake Karāpiro.

EXHIBITORS

STAND 1 - Waikato Air Conditioning Group - We supply and install heat pumps –best prices guaranteed.

STAND 2 - Shoppington - Stocks the best range of outdoor water features in New Zealand.

STAND 3+4 - Power Chill (NZ) Ltd - Your air conditioning, ventilation, and refrigeration specialists in the Waikato.

STAND 5 - PGO Horticulture- Hydroponic systems, supplies, and advice - Commercial and Hobby supplies, Custom blended Fertilisers and Nutrients,- Irrigation / Fertigation equipment,- Greenhouse Automation.

STAND 6 - Bioptron NZ - Breakthrough medical light therapy device for wounds, immunity, natural pain relief. Show O erFREE treatment!

STAND 7 - Majestic Sheep Breeders - Valais Blacknose and Aussie White sheep breeders, Central Waikato.

STAND 8 - Roger Ramsey BuildingWaikato renovation experts. No job too big, or small.

STAND 9 - Wild West WorcesterNorthland based creator of gourmet Worcester sauces, relishes and chutneys.

STAND10+ 11 - Outdoor Shade Solutions

- Shade sails, Waterproof sails, Wave shade, Umbrellas, Outdoor blinds, Pergolas, Awnings.

STAND 12 - The Bikery Café - Show Café located in the Matariki Room - Barista Co ee and Pastries.

STAND 13 - Narellan Pools Waikato & Taupo - New Zealand’s Most Loved Pool Brand, New Zealand Made Pools.

STAND 14+15 - Cozy NZ WaikatoSpecialist manufacturer & installer of aluminium windows & doors.

STAND 16 - Grinters Funeral Home/ Rosetown Funeral Home - Pre-plan your funeral arrangements options with our funeral directors.

STAND 17+30 - Mavis & Mick - Leather Shoes, Boots, Handbags, Accessories & Women’s Clothing.

STAND 18 - Wash Rite- Professional Exterior

House & Commercial Building Cleaning NZ-Wide.

STAND 19 -Treetown KitchensSpecialising in providing quality kitchens and interior joinery solutions.

STAND 20 + 27100% Home- Strawbridges - Adjustable Furniture and Beds, Portable Appliances Specials from a company you can trust.

STAND 21 - St Johns Cambridge - St John Ambulance making life-changing di erences within our community.

STAND 22 - Hallmark Services - Better cleans with the Hallmark Team. Your trusted residential, commercial and carpet cleaners.

STAND 23 - Fowler Homes - Your local award winning builders, let’s talk about your project.

STAND 24 +25 - Waipa Networks - Talk to us about energy e ciency & electrical safety.

STAND 26 - Cambridge Tiles - Tiles for every style & budget, backed by local expert advice.

STAND 28 - Continuous Spouting - See us for the continuous spouting and rainwater systems you can rely on.

STAND 29 - Lawn Rite - The grass is greener when you mow it. Lawns, hedges & weed control.

STAND 31 - EziRider - Fold up electric bikes, super discounts, free accessories.

STAND 32 - Good Local Media Ltd - Show Organizer -Information Desk located in foyer. Also, Publishers of Cambridge News, Te Awamutu News , King Country News, Waikato Business.

STAND 33+34 - Double Glazing United - Your local timber and aluminum retro t double glazing specialist.

STAND 35 - Expert Flooring - NZ Wool Carpets, Laminates, Vinyl Planking and Timber Flooring.

STAND 36+37 - Latitude HomesNationwide New home builders.

STAND 38 - Totalspan Waikato/King Country - Have you covered for garages, workshops, storage and more!”

STAND 39 - Inversion NZ Ltd - Teeter X3 Fitspine for relief of back, neck, hip and knee pain.

STAND 40+ 41 - Design Builders ( Waikato/ Franklin) Ltd. - Creating unique top quality, superb, beautiful one-o homes as everyone is di erent.

STAND 42 - 4WD SolutionsIf you’re looking for vehicle suspension solutions – see us!

STAND 43 - Cambridge Real Estate - Real Estate giveaway & Kids competition! Visit us!

STAND 44 - Daisy Garden Bags & BinsGreen waste collection service for residential and commercial properties in the Waikato.

STAND 45 - The Designers ColabCollaborative interior design studio - Featuring industry leaders in residential/ commercial design.

STAND 46 - Truestyle Improvements/NZ Swimming Pools - For all your landscaping and pool projects.

STAND 47 - Liquorice Delights & Mega Cookies - Liquorice Delights – The top-notch quality delights you deserve, crafted in New Zealand.

STAND 48+49+50 - Edwards & Hardy Roo ng - Re-Roo ng, Roof Cleaning, Roof Repairs, Guttering.

STAND 51 - Cambridge Resthaven - 100% Community owned retirement village, care centres, companion driving service.

STAND 52 - The Cambridge Distillery Co. - Crafters of ne gins and sprints, made right in the heart of Cambridge from local ingredients.

STAND 53 - Mons Flavors - Delivers healthy and versatile spice blends, made in Rotorua, inspired by Indian Wisdom.

STAND 54 - Carley’s Kitchens - Homemade cooking made with love & a ordable merchandise.

STAND 55 - Waikato Security Doors -Manufacturer and installers of security doors & insect screens. Covering Waikato, BOP & Coromandel.

STAND 56+ 57 - Carpet Court & Curtain Studio - We have the perfect ooring and curtain solution for every lifestyle.

STAND 58 - First National Te AwamutuWe are passionate about helping you with your real estate needs.

STAND 59 - Versatile Homes and Buildings’ - Your trusted building partner for over 40 years.

STAND 60 - Waipa Glass/Waipa Cambridge- Splashbacks, showers, glass art, glass products, pet doors, cleaning products.

STAND 61 - Grindking - Local concrete grinding, sealing, bush hammering and polishing specialists.

STAND- 62+63 - Kiwi Az Creationz - We create a range of furniture and décor made from wine barrels.

STAND 64 - LANGSFORD & OGLEShowcasing our House & Land collection and dream home solutions.

STAND 65 - Cambridge Tourism Operators - Learn more about all the great tourism products in your backyard.

STAND 66 - The Biltong Shed- Biltong: the ultimate snack for any adventure! A food with no limits!

STAND 67 - Huis Joinery - Bespoke Kitchen and Cabinet Makers / Kitchens / Laundries / Barndoors / Wardrobes / Custom Cabinetry.

STAND 68 - TENZCO - We specialise in Ten’s therapy, natural drug free pain relief.

STAND 69 - Masada - Cladding the weatherboard you never have to paint.

OUTSIDE

STAND 70 - BUILDLINK CAMBRIDGENewest Local Building Merchant, Exclusive Deals on Quality Building Supplies

STAND 71 - NP Flowers - We sell fresh cut owers and bouquets, pick up your Mother Days owers.

STAND 72 - Majestic Sheep BreedersValais Blacknose and Aussie White sheep breeders, Central Waikato- Live sheep.

STAND 73 - Keppler - Waikato’s home of GWM, HAVAL, TANK and ORA.

STAND 74-. Sawadee Thai and Asian Caterers- We o er authentic Thai cuisine led by our talented chef Thanya.

STAND 75 - Mizzoni Wood red Pizza & Pasta - Authentic Italian wood red Pizza by Mizzoni Hamilton.

STAND 76 - Black & Orange Catering - Low and Slow Pulled Pork and Brisket.

STAND 77 -

From consultation to drive preparation and concrete placing... We are your property improvement specialists. If you have a building or landscaping project in mind, our team has over 20 years experience to make your

VISIT US AT THE WAIPA HOME & LEISURE SHOW

Pop along and visit our team at stall 43 at the first ever Waipa Home & Leisure Show from Friday 10th — Sunday 12th May 2024 at the Don Rowlands Centre, Karapiro.

We will be running a Real Estate giveaway and a competition for kids! We can’t wait to see you there!

ph: 07 823 1945 | sales@cambridgerealestate.co.nz | www.cambridgerealestate.co.nz

FIND US AT STALLS 24 AND 25 FOR:

Energy efficiency insights: Discover how to save on energy costs with Ecobulbs and shower heads.

Safety first: Talk to our team about electricity safety.

Equipment showcase: Explore our network equipment up close.

WE’RE LOOKING FORWARD TO SEEING YOU THERE!

EVENT DETAILS

Dates: Friday 10 May to Sunday 12 May

Times: Friday and Saturday 10am – 5pm Sunday 10am – 4pm

Location: Sir Don Rowland Centre, Mighty River Domain, Lake Karapiro

Entry fees: Adults $5, Children under 12 free

Celebrating Life - Your Way

Grinter’s Funeral Home and Rosetown Funeral Home provide a pre-planning option, easing burdens on families during challenging times. Ensure your wishes are honoured by requesting our Pre-Arrangement form when you see us at the Waipā Home Show. By completing this form, you can ensure your preferences are met, and provide peace of mind for your loved ones.

3 Hallys Lane, Cambridge 07 827 6037 www.grinters.co.nz

Elevate your home with superior double glazing.

If you’re tired of cold winter mornings and mopping up condensation, then you need to speak to our team of double glazing professionals today! Whether it’s retrofitting into your existing timber or aluminium joinery – we can do it all. Join the community of satisfied clients across the stunning Waikato & Bay of Plenty region – get in touch with us today!

Life changing –and life saving

By Kate Monahan

Recognising and responding to people experiencing a mental health crisis or challenge is a skill every New Zealander should have, says Pirongia mental health expert Sarah Keelty.

She is team lead at Manaaki Raatonga aa Iwi (Mental Health and Addiction Services) in Hamilton, part of Health New Zealand Te Whatu Ora Waikato.

Stacey Kaye is an occupational therapist at the service, and both are passionate advocates of the Mental Health First Aid Aotearoa (MHFA) programme.

“I feel that it is not only life changing, but it is lifesaving,” says Keelty.

The evidencedbased education programme equips people with the practical skills, knowledge, and confidence to support someone experiencing a mental health challenge or crisis.

Stacey show”.

Their friendship, sense of humour and camaraderie help them to teach complex and sensitive topics including dealing with depression, anxiety, psychosis, problematic substance use, with a crisis focus on suicidal thoughts and behaviours, and non-suicidal self-injury.

While most of the attendees are health professionals from Health NZ Waikato, they have also trained many people in the community including those from nongovernmental organisations and government entities with ties to Health NZ.

A mental health emergency should be viewed the same as a medical emergency, like breaking a leg… – Sarah Keelty

“Mental health is such an invisible load. A mental health emergency should be viewed the same as a medical emergency, like breaking a leg or having a heart condition,” said Keelty.

The programme was developed in Australia more than 20 years ago and is now taught in 29 countries. In New Zealand, the national licence for the programme is held by Te Pou, which adapted edition four of the programme in 2020.

Keelty and Kaye were among the first cohort of instructors trained in the updated edition in New Zealand two years ago.

Together, they have trained more than 300 people, and the training continues to be in demand across the region.

“The room is always full,” said Keelty, who jokes that they are “the Sarah and

Among them are allied health professionals, qualified nurses and midwives, frontline hospital staff, and marae-based community support workers. Training has taken Keelty and Kaye everywhere from Thames to Raglan, Ngāruawāhia and Te Kūiti.

They believe that MHFA training is critical – not only for those working in the health sector, but for all New Zealanders.

“The lack of knowledge out there in the community is overwhelming and eyewatering. I am really surprised that, in 2024, still how much is not known about mental health,” said Keelty.

“What I love about the programme is it’s taken mental health education out of a clinical setting and made it relevant to the community – whether a sports club or community setting.

“The biggest thing I take away from Mental Health First Aid, is the confidence people get after attending those two days of training. Because they often have that gut feeling that something is not right with somebody, but they don’t know what to do about it.”

Kiwifruit deal close

An Environment Court appeal by an Ōhaupō lifestyler over a decision to allow a kiwifruit grower to add vertical black screens and planting next door to his Parallel Road property could be dropped following legal discussions between the two parties. Mediation last year did not result in a resolution, but subsequent discussions between the appellant and the consent holder has resulted in a draft put to both of them which if signed would amend the consent and drop the appeal.

The owners of Fruit Monster have been bringing the same friendliness and warmth to customers since 2009. Their simple aim is to provide Te Awamutu with the freshest possible produce –while at the same time keeping prices as low as possible. Along with a range of Filipino groceries and spices sourced from Auckland.

Murray Hunt Stores merchandise is forever changing, there is always something new to see. Beautiful home décor in all 3 stores and of course the Bedsrus stores stocking a wide range of New Zealand Made Sleepyhead beds. There’s something for everyone, so come on in and meet the friendly team. They’re here and ready to help.

way home and experience what Spice Heaven has on offer.

Murray Hunt

Sarah Keelty, left, and Stacey Kaye.

ON SHAKY GROUND

Anticipating eruptions

By Janine Krippner

I was recently asked how reliable our technology is for giving us warnings about eruptions.

The answer is complex. It’s a mix of our technology, the people we have monitoring our volcanoes, how well we understand our volcanic systems (those are often influenced heavily by how much funding we have), and the volcano itself.

The global field of volcanology is always working on new ways to monitor volcanoes and every now and again a game changer pops up. Recently we have seen the rise of drones that we can use to map changes on volcanoes, collect images and video, take measurements, and even collect samples of rock, ash, gas, and fluids. We can do this in areas where we would be in danger with our fragile human bodies. In the past few decades we have had an explosion of satellites that collect all sorts of valuable information from space. Our technology keeps improving and a lot of research goes into understanding how to use it specifically for volcanoes and eruptions.

All the technology and methods we use take money, as well as people’s time, and we don’t get enough. The technicians who develop, install, and maintain our equipment are critical, especially in harsh volcanic environments where things tend to break or corrode. Even simple webcams take maintenance of the data collection and transmission systems that they run on. It takes a team.

We need the right human expertise and experience in our universities and monitoring agencies – GNS Science in our case. Each different part of volcano monitoring takes someone not only understanding it in depth (what processes produce what sort of seismic signals), but also pushing our knowledge forward (finding and understanding new signals). We can have all the data in the world

on what a volcano is doing but we need someone who really understands it, all the limitations and exceptions, and how to interpret and apply it.

I may be an expert in volcanoes, but when it comes to something like seismology that is way over my head, we need volcano geophysicists for that. We all have our specialities and technological needs.

All of this must be put into the context of the volcano itself. We work to understand past eruptions and the complex magma systems below by analysing the rocks from eruptions past. Different dedicated laboratories detect and measure different elements in the components of the rocks (glass, crystals, and trapped gas or fluids). Complicated computer models are developed using the physics of volcanic processes. The eruption deposits themselves tell us about how each part of an eruption behaves and changes through time. We also mix in geophysics (studying the rocks within the Earth) and gas chemistry (released from magma). All of this takes tools from simple rulers and cameras to multi-milliondollar lab equipment.

Why is this important? Because the cost of an eruption to society can also be severe. The more we understand our volcanoes and prepare the different aspects of society (like utilities companies and farming communities), the more we can reduce the impact and speed up recovery. This is simply a part of living in a volcanically active country, on a very volcanically active planet.

For volcano monitoring in New Zealand GNS Science/GeoNet online shows some of the monitoring outputs like seismicity and webcam images.

Tragic end to a search

By Meghan Hawkes

When John Skinner went missing from his home at Kihikihi on a Sunday in August 1898 there was more of a sense of alarm than usual. John, 50, had been deaf and mute since birth. He lived with his relations Catherine and John Kewish on their farm and after it was discovered he had wandered away and disappeared, the Hamilton police were informed. John Skinner was described as being of medium build, dark complexion, dark hair, beard, whiskers and moustache slightly tinged with grey and pock pitted skin. He was dressed in blue clothes, a thigh length coat, dark tweed trousers and vest, and tweed cap.

After initial searches on Sunday an anxious but energetic group of family and kind neighbours scoured the creek and bush adjoining the Kewish’s farm during the whole of Monday and into Tuesday morning. Constable Carroll meanwhile made exhaustive inquiries and a thorough search for many miles along the roads. John was eventually found about noon drowned in the Mangaohoi Creek in the direction of Ōrākau, on Mr Hutchinson›s farm. It was a considerable distance from the Kewish’s house and sadly evident that John had lost his way, the scrub and undergrowth and swampy nature of the land near the creek making travelling in parts almost impossible. Constable Carroll was informed, and had the body conveyed to Mr Kewish’s. Those who under great difficulties had kept up the diligent search and the police who did all in their power to find the missing man were much praised. Considerable sympathy was felt for the

Winter

A checklist in choosing the right heat pump

By far the biggest heat installation in New Zealand homes today is that of the heat pump. But it’s not just a question of the rst or cheapest model you come across.

One of the biggest factors is making sure you have the right size. This is essential for both cost and performance.

A heat pump that is too small may struggle to adequately heat or cool your home, while one that is too large can cycle on and off frequently, both leading to energy waste and potential wear and tear.

Ideally, you should consult with a professional such as an electrician or quali ed installer to determine the appropriate size and capacity based on factors such as the size of your home, insulation levels, climate, and desired temperature preferences. Even a second storey will make a difference and in some instances, large homes will require more than one.

Look for heat pumps with appropriate Energy Star ratings that indicate better energy ef ciency, which can translate to lower energy bills and reduced environmental impact over time.

Look for heat pumps with a wide operating temperature range and advanced features like variable-speed

compressors or dual-fuel capabilities for optimal performance in varying weather conditions.

There are several types of heat pumps available, including air-source, groundsource (geothermal), and ductless mini-split systems. Each type has its advantages and limitations, so carefully evaluate your home’s layout, heating and cooling needs, and budget to determine which type is the best t for your situation.

You’ll also need to think about the installation requirements. Heat pumps require outdoor units and ductwork and you’ll need to think about where this will go.

Pay attention to the noise level of the heat pump, especially if you have neighbours in close proximity or if the unit will be installed near frequently used outdoor areas. Look for models with noise-reducing features such as insulated compressor compartments or variable-speed fans for quieter operation.

Evaluate additional features and technology offered by different heat pump models, such as programmable thermostats, Wi-Fi connectivity, zoning capabilities, and advanced ltration systems. These features can enhance comfort, convenience, and indoor air quality.

Kewishs who four months earlier had had another near fatal incident when their 13 year old son

Willie wandered off by himself to go rabbit shooting

While negotiating his way about a fence, he pulled the gun after him, which was at full cock. The charge exploded and Willie was injured. He pluckily walked a significant distance back to his home from where he was taken to Waikato hospital.

John and Catherine Kewish were from the Isle of Man. In 1884, when John was 25 and Catherine 21, they left for Australia as assisted immigrants on the ship Warwick. John Skinner, then 36, likely went with them. The couple’s first child was born the year of their arrival in Australia. In 1887 they came to New Zealand where they settled into farming life in the Te Awamutu district, had three more children and provided a home for John Skinner.

The testimony at John’s inquest was heartrending. Several witnesses were carefully examined, and the evidence showed that John had lost his way, tumbling several times into the creek in very deep places and scrambling out again, struggling bravely for his life before finally becoming exhausted and drowning.

The verdict was that John met his death by drowning in the Mangaohoi Creek sometime between the 7th and 9th days of August and that such death was accidental.

John’s death was registered at Te Awamutu but the records are silent on where he was buried.

COME AND CATCH UP WITH YOUR MATES

Across 1. To the max (prefix) (5) 4. Infected (6) 7.

Trek (4)

Last week

Across: 1. Occupy, 4. Dragon, 9. Tenor, 10. Essence, 11. Oatmeal, 13. Ours, 14. Flannelette, 17. Fair, 18. Apparel, 21. Epitome, 22. Aisle, 24. Please, 25. Sombre. Down: 1. Option, 2. Can, 3. Puree, 5. Rissole, 6. Generator, 7. Need, 8. Well-behaved, 12. Talkative, 15. Nervous, 16. Fleece, 19. Piano, 20. Keep, 23. Sob.

YSRODNEVFLOWERSHLL JREUFQSVCJARSTANDS SQEXGLERZXYCGVWXET LDCLDSONNWESAXARGI LLHELWHNIFGKBRTSAT AOAADESMRAHCTCCSMC TLNSKWWUREGEZXHPAH SWGMPJIEYVLRLZEIDE QOEYJTTRJTHLAGSEND TRSLZREGUSRGEBGSQA GRHBATSOEGDUFSTAFE NAOBTBTRADEKPEYAHL IBPOUSFBOTTLESMTOP KLPYALALGEVWJISETO APICTURESYSJLZPEDE BNNNAXCIATOYSRIROP GSGPESOGOODSGQETGK TSOAPNHCARDSXMLSSC

BAGS BAKING BARGAIN BARROW BARTER BOTTLES BUYING CARDS CASH CHANGE CHARMS CHINA CRAFTS CROWDS DAMAGED DEAL FAMILY FLOWERS FRESH FRUIT FUDGE GOODS HAGGLE HOT DOGS

JARS JEWELLERY LINEN NOISE PEOPLE PICTURES POTTERY RUGS SELLER SEWN SHOES SHOPPING

SOAP SPIEL STALLS STANDS STITCHED STREET SWEETS TOUT TOYS TRADE VENDORS WATCHES

The remarkable true story of a family forced into hiding after leaking Russian secrets

Run For Your Life by Sue Williams

What started out as a great adventure turned into a terrifying nightmare when Nick Stride and his family were forced to flee for their lives from one of the richest, most powerful men in the world.

Nick moved to Russia in 1998 to help build the British Embassy in Moscow, but ended up on the run with his wife and two children after leaking secrets from Vladimir Putin’s one-time deputy.

Hiding off grid on Australia’s final frontier – remote beaches on the Dampier Peninsula on the far north Kimberley coast – the family faced crocodiles, sharks, snakes, raging bushfires and the devastating Cyclone Yvette, and survived only by catching fish and crabs and learning how to kill wild animals. It was a life-or-death move, but Nick felt he had no choice.

Now, emerging from isolation, the family are finally ready to share their incredible story.

The Father Chris Riley Story and the historical novel Elizabeth & Elizabeth. Sue was born in England, and worked in print and television in the UK and New Zealand. She spent many years travelling around the world before falling in love with Australia in 1989. Since settling here, she has written for many of Australia’s leading newspapers and magazines.

Third world stories, here

By Peter Nicholl

My 14 March column was titled ‘what is wrong with NZ?’ I had been surprised and even shocked by the number of stories appearing that I would have expected to refer to third-world countries I have lived in or visited, but not about New Zealand. Recently, I have been collecting similar stories as I read the news each day. In less than two months, the list of stories I would not have expected to read about New Zealand is already enough to fill at least two more columns.

Here are a few of the most surprising or alarming ones…

A new Auckland surgical building cannot open due to a lack of staff. It was intended to open in stages but the first stage was supposed to be in December 2023, and then in April 2024 – and now they don’t know when.

Planned cuts to public service staff so far won’t even wind back the staff increases of the last six months of 2023. Why did that strong expansion in staff numbers occur when there was an election under way? Why are the chief executives who hired all those new staff last year now the ones charged with bringing numbers down again? The first ones to lose their jobs should be them.

A majority of respondents to a recent survey on the state of the nation agreed New Zealand society is broken and the country is in decline.

Plans for a new billion-dollar emergency services radio network are ‘off-track’.

A review of the emergency responses to Cyclone Gabrielle found that ‘familiar laxities’ present in New Zealand’s responses to emergencies for 20 years or more were still present. Another item in the same story said 25 reviews of emergency responses to Cyclone Gabrielle and the Auckland storms were

underway.

NZ is prolific when it comes to reviews and reports, but will anything actually be done as a result of all these reports? The past track-record is not encouraging.

The Wynyard quarter bridge, which is only a few years old, is locked in an open position and it will take months to fix. Meanwhile, the businesses that depend on the bridge for customer access are being hit severely. A letter to the editor of a publication pointed out that the previous bridge had operated without problems for 60 years

Coming closer to home, a Cambridge resident pointed out to the Waipā District Council that their so-called ‘data-based review’ for the location of a third bridge across the river had used traffic data from the period during the Covid-19 red light traffic settings, a period when traffic flows were clearly distorted. Senior council officers told her they were not aware of this. Really? Using inappropriate data as a basis for a major project is worse than using no data and relying on common sense and consultation.

The NZ Statistics Department may be forced to drop poverty surveys because they are too expensive. This would be a very third-world approach to a policy problem. Don’t measure it and maybe no-one will notice there is a problem.

I will over the next month focus on collecting positive stories about what’s happening in New Zealand.

Hopefully, I will get enough material to write a positive column to provide a counterbalance to this negative one

I believe in miracles…

By Murray Smith, Bridges Church

Our culture seems to have elevated science and reason over ‘faith’.

Making a god of analytical thinking and intellect restricts our comprehension of how much more there is, infinitely beyond what can be seen, touched, or explained naturally. A miracle is when natural laws are inexplicably suspended and an occurrence happens for which there is no earthly explanation; where something considered impossible, proves to be possible. That’s a miracle… where the divine spiritual realm breaks in, transcending the natural physical realm.

The Bible records many deeds Jesus did in His earthly ministry… healing every type of disease, sickness and infirmity, breaking demonic oppression off people, raising the dead to life, miracles of nature, (calming storms, feeding multitudes), plus other interventions such as angelic visitations and supernatural protection being mentioned.

I’ve been privileged to witness on numerous occasions, many of the same miracles that Jesus performed, which incidentally, He promised His followers they’d do in His Name. Anyone with faith and empowered by Jesus can participate in the outworking of miracles… recognising God’s power alone, makes impossible things possible.

Since a person with an experience is never at the mercy of someone with an argument, I will continue to believe for, and anticipate miracles because it is simply part and parcel of what accompanies authentic, obedient relationship with God. Christianity stripped of the miraculous isn’t Christianity at all. Inexplicably some claiming faith in God believe that miracles and supernatural demonstrations used to occur, but ceased with the close of the first century. Even a casual glance over church

history refutes that position, with investigation revealing miracles have continually attended the faithful witness of Jesus’ followers.

I visited a little place called Ardmore in Southern Ireland last year, where in year 448 (just before St.Patrick), an Irish bishop, St. Declan, saw astounding miraculous deeds, recorded by multiple eye witnesses. Described as ‘resplendent in character and diverse in miracles’, Declan was used prolifically in miraculous deeds reminiscent of Jesus’ own ministry.

Our experience with God (or lack of it), determines our expectation of what He might be capable of and willing to do. Having a ‘faith’ stance, believing His promises and trusting in His power, clearly plays a part in miracles happening, while unbelief quenches them. Jesus entered Nazareth, the place of his upbringing. Here they had no appetite for Jesus performing the miracles being witnessed throughout Israel…these cynical people were derisive… “isn’t this Joseph the carpenter’s son?… he grew up here and his family still live among us…He’s nothing..!” Their challenge of Jesus’ divinity and supernatural authority resulted in them missing a wonderful visitation of God. Jesus said, “according to your faith, be it unto you..,” suggesting our faith has a part in the release of God’s sovereign interventions into situations. Faith isn’t us doing mental gymnastics to conjure up sufficient belief…it’s simply counting Him trustworthy. Yes, I believe in miracles. The greatest one being that which occurs when a person surrenders their trust to a God who has stopped at nothing to bring about our salvation. A God who is intimately close, present, willing to restore all things in His great love.

ACCOUNTANT

We are looking for a person to join our team either fulltime or part-time, who has a people first attitude and understands the importance of delivering in a positive, timely manner. You will be joining an accountancy firm with a large farming client base along with many progressive businesses. Flexibility to work from either our Hamilton and/or Ōtorohanga office as well as from home as our offices are cloud based.

Qualifications & experience

• Minimum of 2 years experience in a New Zealand chartered accountant’s office.

Benefits

• Flexible working environment

• Offices in Hamilton and Otorohanga

• Payment of professional membership fees

• Staff savings scheme and paid day off for birthday

• Fun progressive team environment

• Being totally cloud based the team are all able to work remotely from home

Send your CV and covering letter to Osbornes Chartered Accountants Ltd, PO Box 1, Otorohanga 3940 or email jeni@osbornesca.co.nz.

KENNERLEY, Leon James

– Tragically, on Saturday 4 May 2024, aged 49 years. Very much-loved husband of Shelley for 18 years. Adored Dad of Lizzie, Courtney, and Renee. Loved son and son-inlaw of Rina and John, Raewyn and Ian, Pete and Margaret, and loved brother and brother-in-law of Jo, Michael, Stephen and Chelsea. Loved uncle of Abigail, Ashton, Laia and Fraser. Leon was loved and greatly respected by his many friends. A service to farewell Leon will be held at St Andrews Church, 85 Hamilton Road, Cambridge on Friday 10 May at 11:00am. Communications to Leon’s family C/- Legacy Funerals, PO Box 844, Cambridge 3450.

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Call Janine 027 287 0005 or email janine@goodlocal.nz