King Country
Searchers to the rescue
By Paul Charman
Outdoor enthusiasts have pledged to put up their hands to bring more local knowledge to search and rescue operations in the rugged King Country bush.
About 30 people attended a meeting at the Tomo Eatery and Bar on Wednesday night and 20 put down their names to assist NZ Land Search and Rescue (Landsar).
Some will train as Lansar members, while others will join search teams as expert guides familiar with specific areas.
Those gathered included hunters, land owners on the fringes of Pureora Forest, amateur radio operators and others with an interest in the outdoors.
More, including those from the coast and Taumarunui, are likely to get involved in coming days and weeks, said meeting organiser Allen Juno.
Juno got involved after his property was used as a base to look for an experienced Auckland hiker, Judy Donovan, 79, who went missing in the Pureora Forest on March 23.
Donovan had been with a party of three people from the Pukekohe Tramping Club who had been assisting Department of Conservation staff by laying bait in a remote
area of the northern forest.
The search failed to find her.
Concerns about how the search was conducted were initially raised in the King Country News by Donovan’s daughter Nic who wrote to the newspaper to thank those who helped. She also said she was concerned that protocols around searching – including recent restrictions around shift times, could impact on the potential for success.
At the end of the first day searchers were apparently ready to go back to look for Donovan with a dog, but by about 8pm the police radio person had finished an eighthour shift. They could not pass the radio to someone else and so the searchers were stood down until around 9am next day.
“That first night was really the issue for a lot of us,” Juno said.
“Even though looking for somebody in the bush in the dark is dangerous and has its own issues, we had an experienced hunter, who knew the area well, who was prepared to walk in. He believed he could have been at the area where Judy was last reported to be within one and a half hours. I know I can only speculate but because of the extreme cold it seems Judy would not have survived long
into the following day.
“The problem is that police couldn’t ask anyone to have gone in because of their health and safety regulations. Even in the subsequent days there was minimal communication with the local experienced bush people and pig hunters who knew the area well,
having hunted there for years. Many of these had heard of the search and were keen to help.”
He said the weather was “about as bad as it gets up there”, the volunteers who had been laying bait were ill prepared and not every member was carrying a
locator beacon.
“But all that said, one thing we have urged the authorities to take on board, and they appear to have done so, is to utilise the knowledge of local hunters and bushmen and women, who really know these areas,” Juno said.
“Nobody can say for sure,
but if people who regularly hunted in the area in which Judy went missing had been allowed into the search area at an earlier stage, it would have represented her best chance of survival.”
The search continued in following days until it was abandoned on March 31.
Studying a map of the location where Judy Donovan went missing were, from left, Duncan Pease, Bruce Johnson, Dominique Fortis and Charlie Smart at last week’s meeting.
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Junior doc hits ‘ultimate goal’
By Sigrid Christiansen
In 2024, for the first time in decades, Te Kūiti Hospital invited applications for a rural medicine placement for a junior doctor.
The call was answered by Te Kūiti High graduate Jackie Katipa-Maikuku.
She heard about the opportunity last year from Te Kūiti GP Dinesha Kumarawansa while based at Waikato Hospital,
“She does an annual presentation about rural hospital medicine – and said they were looking for junior doctors to be placed.”
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Jackie applied and was accepted.
That placement has now finished, but before leaving, she shared what makes her tick as a medical professional, and why she came home.
She is among just 5per cent of New Zealand’s doctors who are Māori.
The self-described adrenalin junkie “loves fast paced medicine” and the rural hospital environment, where doctors “work with what they have” and expect the unexpected.
Even if patients later transfer elsewhere, those first moments matter greatly for longer term outcomes, she said.
She had long aspired to come back to the King Country.
“Going home has always been an ultimate goal; I just didn’t realise it was going to happen as soon as this.”
“I’ve grown up in a small rural community and realised there are a lot of barriers to accessing health care, and inequitable health outcomes. It was always the reason why I
went initially into medicine.”
A year out of high school, Jackie entered Tū Kahika, a foundation course for Māori students with aspirations in health. She had earlier assumed medicine was out of reach, too expensive, and took too many years. Plus, “I thought I wasn’t smart enough.”
During her training, Jackie’s mentors, including Suzanne Pitama, dean of the Māori/Indigenous Health Institute School of Medicine and Health Sciences at Otago Iniversity, provided guidance regarding the integration of Māori values such as
MAYOR’S VIEW
Reflections from Europe
I have been visiting family and friends in the United Kingdom and Germany over the past two weeks.
It got me thinking about the New Zealand economy, our standard of living, and our size relative to other countries. To put this into some perspective, in the UK there are 274 people per square kilometre, Germany 232, while NZ has 18.
In terms of economic wealth, both Germany and the UK significantly outstrip New Zealand on a per capita basis. You can feel it. Each of these economies is driven by much larger population bases. Their productive sectors feed large markets. The EU adds massive scale.
New technology is everywhere.
Governments are using regulations to secure environmental outcomes – for example moving to clean energy and encouraging recycling. Ageing populations and labour shortages are being dealt with proactively,
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through immigration policies.
whakawhanaungatanga (relationships) in a medical setting.
These values are intended to make medical consultations “a more welcoming space for our Māori people,” who had grown to mistrust the system.
“I have been able to take what I’ve learned into practice. You can just see that the two minutes of whakawhanaungatanga at the beginning of the consultation really changes your rapport with the patient.
She said junior doctor placements like hers were valuable for young graduates who did not necessarily realise the benefits of practicing in a smaller community.
It would open their eyes, “for want of a better word, the amazingness” of rural medicine.
She’s not sure what the future holds but will “probably come back for good,” one day.
But there’s competition: next year’s about exploring the possibility of becoming an orthopaedic surgeon: a speciality where “you get to use power tools”.
Do her Te Kūiti mentors hope she comes back again?
“Absolutely,” said the hospital’s Keith Buswell.
“It’s been fantastic having someone born and bred in this town, who went to Te Kūiti High School, return to work here as a fully qualified doctor.
“It shows that people from Te Kūiti can become highly trained health professionals,” he said.
By John Robertson, Mayor of Waitomo
Our economy was built on the back of farming – wool, meat and dairy products. King Country farmers supported this enterprise, back as far as 130 years ago.
A more diversified set of primary industries have supported us over the past four decades. We added horticulture, forestry, wine, and aquaculture.
Tourism boomed, to become our second largest export earner pre-Covid, but collapsed as borders closed. Only now is it in a rebuilding phase.
More recently, central government borrowed huge amounts to support businesses and workers through Covid. This debt now weighs us down, with belt tightening required for the foreseeable future.
Given this history and our current circumstances, we need now to focus our minds on how we create wealth for our future generations. This feels like a new world.
Opportunities have never been handed to us on a plate. At most times in our history we have used our land to build wealth, applying our creativity to develop quality products from it. We have applied technology to get them to distant markets.
We are a “lucky country”, but luck won’t make our future. Learning from the past and investing wisely for the future will. We in the King Country know this.
As in the past, our farmers need to be risk takers and entrepreneurs. Those who man our works need to be skilled. Those who teach need to inspire. And importantly, those who raise children need to nuture them and support them through their schooling. Times are tough for us locally. We are in a rough part of a journey. Europe is reimagining its future. We must do so also.
Jackie Katipa-Maikuku with her grandmother, Wikitoria Katipa-Maikuku.
Bach owners remain defiant
By Paul Charman
Bach owners at Mōkau’s Te Naunau sandspit appear to have no intention of moving on
In a letter to the Tainui Trader, Mōkau’s online newsletter, the group said they intended to protect their properties and gather community support. They also called for work to preserve public beach access at the end of Pt Road, an area which is rapidly eroding.
The News reported last month that Waitomo District Council had been told it should plan a managed retreat from the Mōkau spit and people living there should leave the area, which is an urupā.
There is also conflict over landowners’ work to counter erosion.
Mārama Henare-Waho, speaking on behalf of her whānau, Te Paerata, said houses should not have been built in the first place.
But the group disagrees.
“The point holds a special place in the hearts of many families who have grown up holidaying and spending time in our beautiful area of Mōkau, with the area being subdivided by the crown for people to build holiday homes a long time ago,” the letter said.
“At times the erosion has been a problem which, with every good intention, the owners have tried to prevent or minimise.”
The letter described efforts in 2006 by the then Mōkau Protection Society to apply for resource consent at a cost of $100,000 to build a sea wall, which was declined.
The residents disputed the findings of engineering reports on the value of building a sea wall to protect the area.
“The main reason work has not gone ahead is due to views of a small group of people from out of the area who have chosen to interfere and would like to see us lose our properties and vacate the area. They want to let the sea wash in and that would be the end of the Point as we know it and be incredibly sad for property owners, fishing, whitebaiting, beach visitors and all others that enjoy this special place and see it as worthy of saving.”
The letter claimed “interferences” halted any progress they could have made in stabilising and protecting the point for everyone, at this time, including the urupā “which we all care about”, and resulted in Peter Sole Transport being convicted of disregarding an abatement order after working on a sea wall.
The letter thanked Peter and Joanne Sole, “for their help and involvement in preservation of the point”.
“Local community support for Point Road is essential and Point Rd residents plan to include interested people and the media at future meetings with local government bodies to keep our light shining, and progress going forward,” the letter said.
Couple honoured
membership is by invitation only.
The
St John Te
Ketrina, who is also now treasurer for St John in Te Kūiti, joined Papakura Central Youth 2006 and Stephen, a member of the Te Kūiti Area Committee and Three Steps for Life Community Educator, joined St John South Auckland in 2009.
The couple moved to Te Kūiti in 2020.
Point Rd property owner Kane Hooper near the rapidly eroding public beach access.
Te Kūiti St John stalwarts Ketrina and Stephen Allen have been admitted to the Order of St John in a ceremony led by Governor General Cindy Kiro.
couple are voluntary members of the St John Te Kūiti Area Committee, and the investiture came late last month in Hamilton.
Kūiti Area Committee chair Lorrene Te Kanawa said
Governor General Cindy Kiro pictured with Ketrina and Stephen Allen.
Learning from his heroes
Sigrid Christiansen
caught up with Piopio All Black Cortez Ratima about his first weeks of wearing the famous jersey.
For Cortez ‘Tez’ Ratima, his All Black selection is still sinking in – “I’m grateful, and it’s something that’s hard to put words to,” he said, in an interview with The News after his return from playing Fiji in San Diego, in the US.
Tez is back home in Hamilton and in dad mode. During our phone call, his baby son Kyvie could be heard playing close by.
It feels “still pretty crazy,” being in the same environment as players like Beauden Barrett and Ardie Savea.
And he’s learning what goes into their excellent games.
“The difference is their diligence during the week, prepping off the field.”
He said they excel at something that’s easier said than done - being in the moment, well before running onto the field.
“I was sitting on the bench with Beauden and he was talking through the game. While that wouldn’t be unusual for top-level players, it was the first time I’d seen it happen to that extent. He was just so present, so focussed on the game.”
He also appreciated the “cool, welcoming environment” created in the All Black squad, thanks to coach Scott Robertson.
“He tells us: you’re here for a reason.”
Ratima was named alongside TJ Perenara and Noah Hotham as the three half backs for the Lipovitan-D Rugby Championship this week.
The News asked which international side he would be most excited about playing, and the answer was the Springboks, especially since they are no longer part of Super Rugby.
“Going over to South Africa and even just
seeing those massive stadiums…
“Then there’s their physical style of rugby, not as fast, a bit like the English style.”
He said this would help “grow our game” as a team.
He’s grateful for the support of partner Phillipa; the two have been together since their schooldays.
“I’ve been so lucky to have her by my side while I’m pursuing my rugby dreams. Having a baby has “added to my appreciation of her, even more so.”
Speaking of youngsters, what has having an All Black in the family meant for his younger brother and sister, also talented players?
“We haven’t really had a big chat about it yet, I think the main thing is to let them be kids while they are kids.”
While being serious about sport involves a lot of hard work, there’s plenty of time for that later on.
“And if they do put sport to the forefront, then I can definitely help them,” he said. “A hundred percent, I would do that.”
Crafting quality floral tributes
Quality flowers for every occasion is the aim of The Floral Studio, owned by Alison Ferris and Janene New.
Situated inside King Country Furniture on Rora Street, the Floral Studio has been trading since the beginning of July.
They have delighted in providing beautiful bouquets for clients and have even o ered children’s workshops during the school holidays. Keep an eye out for the adults’ workshops coming soon.
Alison, along with quali ed orist Tracey Leggett, are well known to Waitomo locals for their high standard of oral work.
Sourcing the best quality owers from New Zealand growers, The Floral Studio specialise in
crafting bespoke oral arrangements tailored for every customer; whether it’s romantic roses, exotic blooms, a blend of textures or scents, or something sweet and simple.
Clients can order online, email, phone or pop into the shop.
For those who live in the Te Kūiti, Piopio and Waitomo area, The Floral Studio also o ers a delivery service at a minimal cost and there is a rural delivery service by courier.
While Tracey and Alison create beautiful orals, Janene attends to the business administration.
Alison has lived in the Waitomo district for the last 18 years and now resides in Te Kūiti along with her three girls.
Janene is a familiar face to many through her multiple involvements in the community.
They both met while volunteering for Legendary Te Kūiti and have a passion for “all things Te Kūiti”.
Quality Flowers for Every Occasion
Cortez Ratima signs autographs after the All Blacks Captain’s Run at Snapdragon Stadium in San Diego. Photo - Derrick Tuskan/Action Press.
Florists; Tracey Leggett and Alison Ferris.
BUSINESS SHOWCASE
Polishing her sparring skills
Mackenzie Webster’s road to Poland has come in 85km increments.
That’s the distance between her Māhoenui home and her karate club in Kihikihi where she trains every week.
Mackenzie is part of a four person Australasian team which will compete at a week-long Kyokushin Karate World Team Match Series at Katowice in southern Poland in October.
Teams will represent Japan, Asia/Middle East, North America, South America, Europe, Poland and South Pacific at the international event. Each will consist of men and women athletes at elite, and 16–17-year level.
Mackenzie is a brown belt in Kyokushin Karate in the colt girls 16-17years age group for Kumite/ sparring.
The 16-year-old won her division in the Waikato Kyokushin tournament in April and won again at the New Zealand National Tournament in Napier, on June 29 - becoming the national champion for Colt girls.
It made her a contender for the World Team Matches in October in Poland representing the South Pacific - New Zealand, Australia and the Islands.
Her sensei advised the family near the end of July that Mackenzie had been selected.
She attributes her success at kumite to the support of Kihikihi sensei Kevin Maber.
“Our sensei is really encouraging.
“When you are getting good and beating other people it gives you a kind of a lift so that, ‘wow.
I’m good at this’. It gives you more drive to do it, especially when you start winning tournaments.”
Women in the sport tended to favour kata, or forms practice, she said. Karate has been part of Mackenzie’s life since she was six. It’s something all her children do, said her mother, Carolyn Weinberg.
Mackenzie started karate in the South Island before they moved to Māhoenui.
“There’s no karate in Te Kūiti or Ōtorohanga,” Carolyn said.
“Kihikihi was the closest one and I wanted the kids to keep doing it. I’ve always wanted the kids to do karate up to age 16 then they could make up their own minds.”
The tournament is over an extended weekend, but Carolyn says they will make a two-week holiday of the trip.
“It’s pretty exciting, my partner Brent and myself will be going over with her,” Carolyn said. “It’s the trip of a lifetime, we couldn’t really say no.”
The tournament covers one week. Mackenzie has to be there for a four-to-five-day period to meet the other team members and coach from Australia for training sessions, followed by the tournament.
RIGHT: Kyokushin brown belt Mackenzie Webster will be taking her karate to Poland in October.
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Multi-sport option on the table
By Andy Campbell
A permanent home for Ōtorohanga Riding for the Disabled has been formally agreed to by the district council accepting the gift of a 9.3ha farm over flat grassland just outside town.
Colin and Dianne Murphy’s property in Otewa Rd will be sold to John Oliver who will give the land to the Ōtorohanga council and become a permanent home for Riding for the Disabled, and other community groups.
The project was presented to the council in the public forum of the March 2023 council meeting. The council’s task was to decide how to go forward with one of two options.
The original gift was for a permanent RDA home and equestrian centre and rural park. At the June meeting Cr Rodney Dow suggested there was enough room for both equestrian activities and a comprehensive multi-purpose sports/recreation park.
The process is a bit of a gear change for the council which was about to consult its ratepayers about developments of existing public spaces at the domain and the Island Reserve.
This is now paused for about six months while consideration is given to exploring the RDA plus multisport option.
Mayor Max Baxter acknowledged council chief advisor Ross McNeil for the work that went into preparing an options report for councillors.
“We are talking about a 30year vision and whichever path council decides to go down, whatever information goes out to the community, we need to make it clear that we are talking about a long-term proposal here,” McNeil said.
“Aside from the RDA for example, any other options and development opportunities for the land are in my view going to take
time to work through. Some of those may never come to fruition.”
Baxter also acknowledged the Olivers and the Murphys for this opportunity.
“I think it’s a very exciting opportunity for the town and the district, going ahead, and it will be interesting to see what comes out of the public consultation.”
The council budgeted $50,000 for the now delayed study.
Cr Kit Jeffries said discussion about the cost of a feasibility study was a red herring.
“When you look at the value of that land and compare that to the cost to getting a feasibility study, its peanuts,” he said. “There is a possibility as Cr Dow has said that we may need some external funding for that, but at a pinch there’s probably no reason why we couldn’t loan fund it and spread it over 10 years at $5000 a yearpeanuts.”
Cr Katrina Christison said the public need to be involved in the discussion because the project would cost millions.
The philanthropists advised that the land could be held in trust for up to three years to enable preliminary work like consenting, due diligence, feasibility testing.
McNeil said the suggestion that the property could become a multi-use recreation park greatly increased potential risks for the council.
The equestrian focus of the Rural Park concept meant the project was outside council’s activity/service delivery functions. Providing space for sports activities was a core activity of council and, because of its potential scale, the responsibility for leading the development of a multi-purpose sports park could be expected to sit with council, he said.
Costs could include water and wastewater and possibly stormwater services being provided to/across the property by council. A feasibility study would assess those risks.
Health expo draws men
By Roy Pilott
They were regaled with a Te Awamutu born All Black’s story of playing Elephant Polo in northern Thailand and fed a diet of sizzled sausages and health tips.
More than 60 people attended the inaugural Menz Shed health expo in Te Awamutu’s Baptist Church on Saturday.
And aside from the stories and food, the consistent message was to communicate.
Te Awamutu born All Black Steve Gordon, 57, asked the gathering “how many adventures start with g’day?”
“It’s all about getting conversations started, participating, having adventures – and don’t forget about your mate stuck in the lounge watching television. The onus is on us to get out.”
The expo was a step into the unknown for the Te Awamutu branch and it landed on firm ground. So much so that national chairman David Broadhead said he would be keen to see it run by Menz Sheds all over the county.
The event featured an expo with health group representatives available to discuss issues, and a sit down session for a little over an hour where invited speakers shared information and health tips.
There were speakers on the subjects of heart health, strokes, prostate cancer, diabetes and dementia.
Several explained that their organisations relied on volunteers and had gone through restructures.
Te Awamutu branch head Richard Cato, concentrating on the communication theme told how he has been discussing writing the memoirs of Steve Gordon’s father Brian.
Gordon senior had subsequently been admitted to hospital in January 2023 after becoming unwell and told Cato the staff were wonderful – “but I just want to talk to a man”.
Gordon senior died a couple of months later aged 82 and Cato said he had never forgotten his words.
Cambridge’s Ron Greenwood summed things up nicely by encouraging men to get regular health checks.
“Get a warrant of fitness – we take our cars in and neglect ourselves.”
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Ivan Feshchenko from Te Kawa, discussed heart health with Hamilton based Alina Jose of the Heart Foundation.
Post case
off to court
By Chris Gardner
Former Waipā posties Danny and Ian Kennedy are taking a claim for damages against New Zealand Post to the High Court.
The couple sold their Te Awamutu home and moved to the South Island in June after NZ Post cancelled their contract to deliver “all mail” in the RD3 Tamahere district in November 2023.
The cancellation followed the Kennedys’ complaint to NZ Post that some mail was being delivered by other contractors.
Although the couple failed to get a High Court injunction preventing the cancellation of the contract in November, Justice Ian Gault said there were questions around the termination notice and the Kennedys’ claims they had been promised an exclusive territory. These were best addressed by damages claim, he said.
“We are seeking substantial financial damages against NZ Post for unlawful termination of our contract, and failure to provide us with ‘exclusivity’ within the RD3 territory we purchased,” Danny Kennedy said.
“We believe NZ Post deliberately withheld its plans, for what it later in 2022 called its Multi Run
Courier Business model and its more recent One Network model, the nationwide Courierisation of mail and parcels into a single van, before we interviewed with its senior Waikato executives in December 2018 and February 2019.”
After conducting due diligence and fully reliant upon the contractual and verbal assurances from its senior executives, the couple mortgaged their house and purchased the RD3 run in April 2019.
They have sought extensive ‘discovery’ through the court and provided what they say is evidence of removal and re-allocation of their freight to third party couriers.
Last week the couple heard their request for a ministerial inquiry had passed from State Owned Enterprises minister Paul Goldsmith to Chris Bishop and onto Simeon Brown before it was dismissed in favour of a NZ Post board review.
Taranaki-King Country National MP Barbara Kuriger told The News the case needed to be looked at.
The News approached NZ Post for comment.
Senior external communications advisor Sarah Jarvis said: “NZ Post politely declines to comment on this matter, especially given it’s before the court.”
Photo exhibit opens
A new set of pictures taken through the lens of Mōkau Camera Club members have gone on display.
Mōkau Camera Club has opened an exhibition at the town’s Museum Art Gallery that will be on at the venue for about two months.
The 17-members in the club were given the challenge of producing either city, sea or landscapes. Members meet once a month at the town’s St John hall. On club days they go through the images submitted by members, with the winners awarded the prize of a chocolate fish by member Simon Brown, who has experience as a professional photographer.
Mōkau Museum volunteer Jennifer Topless at the camera club exhibition.
Marae gets CD funding
By Paul Charman
Ruapehu civil defence has been given $115,000 toward building the capability of marae to support the community during emergency events.
The scheme to fund marae for civil defence work –which is not replicated at Waitomo or Ōtorohanga councils – uses funding from the Civil Defence Emergency Management Resilience Fund Grant.
The funding will help to deliver a programme of New Zealand Qualifications Authority accredited training aimed at enhancing the ability of marae to support emergency response efforts.
Ruapehu emergency management officer Andy Chambers said the training will initially benefit 25 marae across Ruapehu.
They were identified following discussions with local iwi and hapū after Cyclone Gabrielle.
“Our discussions looked
at what marae were best placed to operate as civil defence welfare centres, along with what was needed to lift the ability of iwi and hapū to support the community in a largescale emergency event,” Chambers said.
“Together we identified the need for emergency response training covering the four stages of civil defence preparedness of reduction, readiness, response, and recovery.
“By lifting the skills of iwi and hapū the training programme will provide a solid foundation for marae to have a greater role in emergency response planning and response.”
Chambers noted the move to develop marae as welfare centres was influenced by a review of emergency management practices that identified the need to have designated, fully prepared facilities for such purposes.
“Many marae are ideal as welfare centres in rural
areas due to their strategic locations and already being set-up for large groups of people.
“These attributes enable them to effectively support emergency response and recovery efforts, providing a source of shelter, food, advice, and information within their communities,” he said.
Horizons Manager Emergency Management Chay Hook said funding for the marae resilience training programme will help lift emergency response capability at a regional level.
“By developing the ability of marae to be welfare centres, we add depth to our regional emergency response infrastructure, ensuring a more resilient and prepared community.
“Strengthening Māori skills and resources in this way fortifies the entire civil defence and emergency response system, benefiting all communities across the region,” Hook said.
Post freight in blaze
The driver of a NZ Post vehicle who pulled into a service station in Te Kūiti made a quick exit when he realised it was on fire.
The Te Kūiti Volunteer Fire Brigade was called soon after 2am yesterday as fire engulfed the truck and trailer, burning freight.
“The driver hopped out to have a look after he heard a popping noise, because he thought he had popped a tyre,” fire chief Hayden Sheedy said.
He found a fire had started in the brakes of the rear trailer unit, which was spreading to the tyres.
Sheedy said the driver immediately removed
the truck from the station and parked it outside the police station in Caroll St. He also managed to disconnect the rear trailer, which had quickly become engulfed in flames as the tyres burned and exploded. A contractor used a forklift to remove crates from the burning trailer to help fire fighters put the blaze out. They also ensured the fire did not spread to the nearby railway workshops.
Sheedy said it was a time consuming job and it was clear NZ Post lost a lot of freight. The truck’s rear trailer was destroyed.
Ruapehu emergency management officer Andy Chambers (right) with civil defence response trainees.
Helping our guardian angels
By Mary Anne Gill
Naomi Carter was 10 when she contacted the Coast Guard to help her father who was scuba diving and having trouble getting back on the family boat.
So, it was a no brainer for her 25 years later to participate in The Big Swim to raise funds to help save more lives on the water.
Naomi is one of at least four Waipā-King Country - and 1200 across the countryswimming a million metres in July to raise $1 million for Coastguard Tautiaki Moana.
The challenge finished yesterday (Wednesday) but when The News caught up with the four swimmers including Trina White, Richard Hill and David Wybourne at the weekend, they had raised just over $4500 and swum nearly 100kms.
They did not know each other prior to the challenge but are now talking about getting a
team together for next year’s challenge.
Naomi’s effort is especially significant. Five months after a September 2017 accident in Cambridge, she had her left leg amputated below the knee.
She had been unloading her car parked on a grass verge in Bracken Street when a distracted driver hit her. She was put her in the care of the trauma team at Waikato Hospital in a critical condition with multiple fractures and injuries.
The physiotherapist now lives north of Ōtorohanga with husband Richard and children Hope, 3, and Bonnie, 2.
Her first experience with the Coast Guard was at Ōkiwi Bay in the Marlborough Sounds on a family holiday.
“I’d learned how to contact the Coast Guard from Dad so when we felt he was getting pushed out to sea (when scuba diving), I contacted them.”
In fact, the boat was closing in on the rocks
and the Coast Guard coordinated a successful rescue.
The family have a bach at Cook’s Beach now. “The Coast Guard provides such a great service and do amazing work,” said Naomi who always hated swimming before the accident.
“I was a runner. Swimming is gentle on the injuries and is very good for my mental health. I love it (swimming) now.”
Since the amputation she has faced “countless” surgeries because of what she describes as a “difficult” stump.
She has that in common with William Pike who lost his right leg after the September 2007 eruption on Mount Ruapehu when he got penned in Dome Shelter near Crater Lake.
They both want something more from their prosthetic legs –the ability to swim long distances, in Naomi’s case, and for William - to climb, run, swim and scuba dive. They compare notes regularly, she said.
Her medical background means she can do her own rehabilitation and knows if the surgeons are trying to hide something from her. But because of ongoing issues and pain she is unable to wear the prosthetic as much as she would like.
She is a regular competitor in New Zealand Ocean Swim events effortlessly swimming kilometres with the use of one leg, which even she
admits takes some balancing. Her sprint swimming has improved during The Big Swim – she can now complete 100m in 1m36s.
Trina, Business Development manager at Waikato Construction Management Ltd – the company owned by her and husband Gary – lives in Te Awamutu and usually racks up her metres at the Aquatic
The family regularly holiday at Whitianga where they have seen the Coast Guard in action.
“It’s a pretty essential
“I know several people who have used the Coast Guard and as a lover of spending time both on and in the water, it is a great peace of mind knowing the Coast Guard is there should things go wrong,” said
“As a country surrounded by water and full of people who love to head to the beach or lake for a long weekend/holiday, the Coast Guard can be kept pretty busy.”
• More photos kingcountrynews.nz
PROFESSIONALS
Taking care of your teeth helps prevent cavities and gum disease. Brushing twice daily and ossing once a day properly can prevent plaque. Gum disease starts when plaque builds up under and along the gum line. Plaque is a sticky lm-like substance that’s lled with bacteria. It can cause infections that hurt the
When considering personal legal documents, many people focus primarily on writing a will, which directs how assets should be divided upon death. However, a will does not cover scenarios where you are alive but unable to communicate your wishes due to illness or incapacity. For such situations, it is essential to have an advance directive (or “living will”). This document allows you to specify what medical actions should be taken on your behalf when you cannot make decisions yourself. Recognised under the Code of Health and Disability Services Consumers’ Rights in New Zealand, an advanced directive enables you to outline your preferences for medical treatment,
gum and bone, leading to gum disease and tooth decay. Plaque also can cause gingivitis, the earliest stage of gum disease. Gingivitis causes your gums to become in amed and swollen. A few signs of gingivitis include consistently bad taste or breath, gums that are swollen, red, or tender & bleed easily when
touched or brushing. Regular Dental check-ups and Dental Hygiene cleans are important to ensure your teeth and gums are Healthy.
Phone Otorohanga Dental Surgery on 07 873 8824 or 0800
including life-sustaining measures like resuscitation and pain management.
Equally important are Enduring Powers of Attorney (EPA), which empower a trusted person to make decisions for you if you become incapacitated. There are two types of EPA:
• EPA for Property: This allows the designated attorney to manage your financial affairs, such as handling bank accounts and paying bills. You can decide whether this power should activate immediately or only upon losing capacity.
EPA for Personal Care and Welfare: This type grants the attorney authority over your healthcare and personal welfare but only becomes effective when you are deemed mentally incapable by a medical professional or the Family Court. It is crucial to establish these documents while you are mentally capable. Setting these arrangements now provides peace of mind, ensuring that your preferences are respected and that you have a voice when you might otherwise be unable to communicate.
If you are considering preparing these vital legal documents or have any questions about them, you should contact your lawyer.
Just like in humans, plaque can form on your pet’s teeth. If this plaque is not dealt with it will turn into tartar which can lead to gingivitis or inflammation of the gums. Without treatment, gingivitis can then turn into a more severe periodontal disease damaging the gums and potentially causing irreversible damage to the bone supporting the teeth. Not only does this cause bad breath and affect the oral comfort of your pet but if chronically infected teeth are left untreated the infection can travel through the bloodstream and may cause severe infections in the heart, joints, and bones. Periodontal disease is very hard for owners to detect, as plaque below the gumline cannot be seen, so it is often not recognized until it is at an advanced stage. It is important to know that all stages cause oral discomfort, and all stages are treatable. But don’t panic, there are several options available to help slow down the progression of dental disease. With specially formulated dental diets, enzymatic pastes, regular brushing, dental chews or treats and annual checks you can be proactive about your pet’s oral health. Prevention is better than a cure. Pop in or give us a call to discuss preventative care and treatment options that best suit you and your pet.
KELSI
CARA-LEE HETET
LEFT: Naomi Carter is swimming for the Coast Guard. Photo: Supplied.
Big Swim time: from left Trina White (Te Awamutu), Richard Hill and David Wybourne (both Cambridge) at the Cambridge Pool. Photo: Mary Anne Gill.
Life and times of Darcy
Darcy Lupton has been a champion of the Ōtorohanga community for more about 60 years with long term involvement in the town’s St John Ambulance, volunteer fire brigade, museum and Menz Shed.
He’s coming up on 49 years’
service as a volunteer fire fighter and has also been a long-time member of the Ōtorohanga Working Men’s club, which recently awarded him a life membership.
He’s also had a couple of bouts with cancer, bowel cancer about 15 years ago and more recently a
growth on his vocal cords which after surgery turned cancerous.
Darcy stayed at the Cancer Society’s Lions Lodge in Hamilton. He wasn’t happy about having to sit around between treatments and started doing to odd repair job about the place, which grew into
installing shelving in a storeroom, and then, with the assistance of two other residents they started on the gardens and outdoor furniture.
“Ten years of operations was coming up and they were worried they wouldn’t get everything done in time. We ended up just about doing it all for them. We had a great skip there the size of this room, and had it full by the time we finished,” he said.
Darcy made the news some years ago, picking up the ‘Chairman of Lupton Engineering’ title after he chased a burglar out of his house while wielding a chair.
With his engineering hat Darcy was also behind the mission to move the Ōtorohanga Court House from the main street to its new home at the museum site.
The distance was less than a kilometre, but it took three and a half hours.
It nearly didn’t happen after the Waikato Times printed a story about how the courthouse was going to be moved on public roads on a home built, uncertified, unregistered trailer.
The Transport Department in Hamilton took a dim view and decreed it wasn’t to go on the road.
It’s said the town’s traffic officer gave Darcy the news on a Friday –adding that he was not returning to work until Tuesday.
A truck from Te Kūiti with a large winch brought the courthouse out into the main street from where it was towed to the fire station
corner and up to the next corner.
“We had more hassles over trees.”
The trailer had four large aircraft wheels Darcy obtained from Asplins at Rukuhia.
After Japan surrendered in September 1945, all the RNZAF pilots flew their US manufactured fighters and bombers back to New Zealand, landing at Rukuhia where the aircraft were destroyed according to the terms of the land lease agreement with the US.
Darcy, who was engineering in those days, was able to obtain four massive wheels and stub axles.
With another mate on the museum committee they put a wheel and axle on each corner of the building.
The trailer structure was four massive steel girders left after the stop banks were constructed. The Waikato Valley Authority agreed to a six-month loan – as long as he didn’t cut them up.
A logging truck brought them into town and a cousin welded them altogether.
“Each wheel was able to steer so we could get the building out of the site and round the corner.”
He’s been involved with the Ōtorohanga Menz Shed for the 10 years of its operation, relating how they were able to retrieve some of the workshop machinery sold to the college by the council.
A recent addition to the shed is the shiny new dust extraction donated to the workshop.
POLICE DESK
Te
Kūiti
Police attended 10 family harm incidents. Over the past week several phone scams were reported in which people were deceived into providing back account details to a caller, who then defrauded them of money. Acting sergeant Gary Anderson said it was a timely reminder never to give out bank details over the phone, or via email. “If it doesn’t feel right, call your bank and confirm (the situation) from them before you do anything else.”
July 22: At 11.30am police resolved a neighbourhood dispute over a fence between two properties on The Esplanade.
At 7.14pm that day, a car braking as it entered the 50 km/h zone in Awakino Rd spun out in wet weather after hitting fallen debris from trees. The car went through a fence and then backwards down a 20m bank. The driver was unhurt.
July 22: Overnight from July 22-July 23, a vehicle was broken into on Ellison St and an Eftpos card taken. The card was used at several stores around town.
July 24: Between 1.30pm and 4.45pm thieves broke into a car on Rora St.
July 24: At 4.29pm police stopped a driver in breach of their limited license provisions.
July 25: Between 10am and 8pm, thieves broke into a vehicle on Taupiri St.
On July 25: At 10am a man left Mitre 10 without paying for a tool kit worth $1800. The man was unknown to staff and thought to have been from out of town.
At 2.39pm that day another person took some clothes from The Warehouse and walked out of the shop wearing them.
July 25: At 9.20am a man at Te Kūiti District Court was arrested after being found to be in possession of a small amount of methamphetamine.
July 26: At 5.45pm thieves broke into a vehicle on King St West.
July 26: At 10.10pm police entered a property at Te Kūiti and arrested a 33-year-old local man who had outstanding arrest warrants. The man, who resisted arrest, was also found to have a methamphetamine utensil on him.
Police attended three family harm incidents and dealt with two mental health episodes.
Three burglaries were reported on July 23: At Karaka Rd a rental property was reported to have been unlawfully entered. It appeared somebody had been squatting there without permission. At a rural property on Mangaorongo Rd address a quadbike was stolen from an implement shed. A station wagon was stolen from the driveway of a Mountainview address.
Shoplifting incidents were reported at Woolworths on July 24, 25 and 26 respectively: July 24. Just before 5pm a woman took items from Woolworths supermarket, hid them on her person and left the shop. July 25: At about midday a person once concealed items in their clothes at Woolworths and left without paying. July 26: At 12.40pm a person paid for one item at the checkout but failed to do so for items in their bag. Police are following lines of inquiry.
July 27: At 12.40pm police attended a single vehicle crash at Kiokio Station Rd. The driver had fallen asleep at the wheel and driven into hedges on the outskirts of the Kiokio School. They were not injured.
July 22: At 1pm a pruning saw was reported to have been stolen after a garden shed was entered on a vacant property in Tainui St.
July 28: At 4.23pm the occupants of a car left the town service station after failing to pay for petrol worth $163.
July 23: At 5pm police assisted Waitomo District Council animal control staff at an address following complaints about an aggressive dog.
A tiny world of native orchids
By Paul Charman
Ōhaupō orchid fancier Alasdair Nicholl delighted a small meeting of community members at the Mōkau St John Hall last week.
Nicholl has admired orchids since he was a young tramper in the early 1980s.
“In that era, I was always racing to the next hut but we had some ladies who pointed out the orchids we were passing in the bush. As I have got older, I have come to appreciate them more and now I take my time to find them.
“It’s worth looking for them in the bush – they may seem pretty small and insignificant but can be outstandingly beautiful for all that,” he told his audience.
Some of the flowers were not more than about 10mm across.
July 28: At 5.31 pm crews from Piopio and Te Kūiti responded after a vehicle rolled at a private address in Kea St. There were no apparent injuries and Te Kūiti’s fire truck was turned back enroute.
July 22: The brigade responded after a single car left Awakino Rd in wet conditions and went over the bank there. The driver was uninjured, but brigade members had to assist her to climb back up to the roadway. They also performed traffic duties at the crash scene.
July 25: At 4am the brigade was called out to a medical event in Haerehuka St.
There were about 160 species of native orchids in New Zealand and Nicholl brought images of about 15 of the most common varieties.
“Some varieties like damp environments like mossy banks, or grow in shady areas near drains. But you can get some orchids that like hot dry road banks – there’s a huge variety of environments that can suit them.
“You also have four or five different varieties of tree orchid; some of these can grow from September and October through to March.”
Group member Maxine Lovell said the group was amazed at how small the native flowers were.
“It can be pretty hard to find them according to Alasdair but I’m sure we’ll all being trying to do so after hearing his talk.
“It’s lovely that these tiny treasures are hiding in plain sight.”
Lions, Hollywoods and hugs
By Paul Charman
In 1966 King Country combined with near neighbours Wanganui to defeat the British Lions 12–6 in one of the biggest triumphs for rugby in the region.
The game, in which the legendary Colin Meads captained the combined side, was considered an epic one at the time, being the first time, a combined provincial team had ever beaten a touring side.
And last Saturday (July 27) two survivors of the history making team got to meet up.
They were Ross Flintoff, 84, who played No 8 for King Country and Peter Johns, 80, a Whanganui centre. The had men had only ever met on the day of the match and so there was some animated conversation and swapping of stories after they shook hands for the first time in 58 years at the Mōkau Museum.
After wandering through some of the exhibits they retreated with family members to enjoy a lunch of whitebait fritters and more conversation about old times. Flintoff made his career as a butcher and Hereford breeder, while Johns entered the hospitality trade, managed hotels and worked in corporate security in Perth.
The trip had been arranged by friends and family members who originally planned to bring their two men together as a surprise.
But this plan nearly came unstuck after Flintoff said he was thinking of bowing out of the Saturday trip to Mōkau due to a knee injury.
At that stage his daughter Karen put cards on the table, saying they had in fact located one of his old team-mates, a former All Black (672), Peter Johns, who now manages a farm off the Awakino Gorge.
The knee was quickly forgotten, and Flintoff was up for the big day out.
What followed at a Mōkau restaurant was a wideranging conversation not just limited to rugby memories.
However, family and friends who brought the two together were treated to some intriguing “inside information” about the big match.
Peter Johns: “One thing that probably never came out was that Pine Tree came to me when it was about 10 minutes to go, and we were narrowly leading. He told me,
“the boys are buggered – we must have a rest”. He knew I’d gotten an injured myself in my previous game against Waikato. So Pinetree said, ‘go into a ruck and be injured’.
“So, I had to throw a Hollywood so the (combined side’s) forwards could have a rest.”
Flintoff said the final minutes of the game were truly hectic for him as the Lions were running everywhere trying, “to run us off our feet and score”.
“We were hanging on by the skin of our teeth. In the final moments the Lions fullback broke through and passed to their winger. But I managed to take him down right on the corner, which I was told saved the game. I didn’t enjoy the big hug from our team manager that followed, we didn’t do that sort of thing back then.”
One point Flintoff said was worth making was that after the game some King Country supporters said their side could take credit for the win, because only three of the combined team had been Whanganui players, all of whom were serving in the army at the time.
“But Pinetree wasn’t having a bar of that suggestion. He said flatly that we wouldn’t have had a chance without having the boys from the Whanganui team included in our side – they were such excellent players.”
After several hours of reminiscing the two men swapped phone numbers, saying they were determined to keep in touch from now on.
Rally closures approved
Targa rally road closures were approved by the Ōtorohanga District Council last week, with no objections being received from the public for the event.
The rally in the Ōtorohanga and Waitomo districts will be over two days, October 25 and 26.
Organisers, the Ultimate Rally Group, are in the process of obtaining consent from residents of the affected areas, indicating agreement for the road closures.
Group director Peter Martin said talks are underway with the council and district businesses about having cars on display in Turongo St as a workshop/ pit area on the Friday and or Saturday. The Island Reserve was a possible alternate.
Rally organisers were in the process of ‘regionalising’ the event, trying to make it more friendly for spectators and local business promoters, Martin said.
For example a tractor seller could park tractors in a paddock put on a barbecue and host
a viewing of the rally cars as they raced by. The rally was a similar bonus for the isolated communities along some of the longer stages, like the Kāwhia Harbour Road.
The organisers were also looking at double running some of the stages which gave organisers an opportunity to put spectator points in place where the flow of cars could be seen twice instead of just once.
“We were really wanting to try and engage a bit more with the township, and the wider community around this event,” Martin said in May.
“This is one of the regions that is very pleased to see us and we would like to continue to build the relationship with you where we could continue to come back more regularly on a basis that could be planned a bit better in terms of your future dates and in terms of your engagement with the wider business community to actually bring activity into town.”
Targa rallyers turned the Ōtorohanga Club carpark into an impromptu pit area when they stopped there for lunch in 2019.
Peter Johns, of Awakino, greets his former team-mate Ross Flintoff. The two last met 58 years ago.
TRADE PROFESSIONALS
PROPERTY
YOUR REAL ESTATE GUIDE TO THE KING COUNTRY
RENOVATED AND READY
Experience the ultimate in comfort and style in this totally renovated three bedroom property, perfectly situated on a spacious 746m2 section and within walking distance to town! Indulge in the perfect blend of form and function, featuring:
Two sleek bathrooms, including an ensuite with a stylish combined shower and cistern. A separate bathroom with a shower, toilet, and ample storage.
This three bedroom hasn’t left out much to ensure comfortable living. An open-plan kitchen, equipped with all the essentials, including a range hood.
A cozy firebox for warmth, complemented by insulation for energy efficiency.
Ample power points and internet connections keeping you in touch with the cyber world.
Unwind and entertain on the expansive deck, perfect for family gatherings and outdoor living.
Enjoy the convenience of being just a short stroll from the town center, with shops, cafes, and amenities at your doorstep.
Pick up the phone and make your appointment today
Seldom found!
LOCATION |1 Nettie Street, Te Kuiti
LAND I 746m2
HOUSE | 120m2, 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms and 1 garage
PRICE | $519,000
LICENSED AGENT | Property Brokers Te Kuiti
LICENSED SALESPERSON | Mary Tapu, 027 474 9869
WEBSITE | propertybrokers.co.nz
WEB ID | TEU181196
This four bedroom, well-presented, weather board home will give you pause for thought! The care that the Vendors have put into the renovation of this beautiful home is evident. The results have turned a house into a home where space was obviously a priority. Modernised throughout, the home has open plan living and a great standard of fixtures and fittings. The combined bathroom consists of a vanity, separate shower and bath. 4 1 2
For Sale $620,000 View By appointment Web pb.co.nz/TEU182953
Mary Tapu M 027 474 9869 E mary.tapu@pb.co.nz
Te Kuiti 13 William Street
Mahoenui
Benneydale
2 State Highway 30, Te Kūiti
sections (sizes are approximate) 1961 SH31 Kawhia Road, Otorohanga, 16.95ha,
3 Honikiwi Road, Otorohanga, 5736sqm flat
9 Sunset Close, Otorohanga, 750sqm in popular
12 Merrin Avenue, Otorohanga, 2104sqm, no covenants on section.
16 Merrin Avenue, Otorohanga, 1459sqm, no covenants on
163 Old Te Kuiti Road, Lots 1, 3 & 4, 5517-8932sqm, easy covenants. Phone Lorraine From $250,000ea Lot 1, 627 Waitomo Valley Road, Otorohanga, 8105sqm rural lifestyle section. Phone Julie $370,000 Lots 90-108 Harpers Avenue, 486sqm to 962sqm, Westridge II subdivision. Phone John From $220,000ea Te Kūiti sections (sizes are approximate)
54A Ailsa Street (Lot 1), Te Kuiti, 2159sqm, end of a cul de sac, STT. Phone Buzz By Negotiation
54A Ailsa Street (Lot 2), Te Kuiti, 1707sqm, end of a cul de sac, STT. Phone Buzz By Negotiation
10 Robin Azariah Place, Te Kuiti, 600sqm level section. Phone Buzz $239.000
Other sections (sizes are approximate)
0 Raglan Road, Kawhia, 2648sqm lifestyle section, no covenants, completely off grid. Ph Julie $340,000 neg 147 Maukutea Drive, Kawhia, 600sqm, covenants apply, services at drive,
$375,000 20C Parihoro Road, Pirongia, 5004sqm (STT), 4 bay
Kerry Harty 027 294 6215 kjharty@harcourts.co.nz
Karen Lennox 027 559 4468 karen.lennox@harcourts.co.nz
TE KUITI State Highway 3
35 Hectares - Supplement Growing Property
Located just north of Te Kuiti aerodrome is this longestablished maize and silage growing property as well as winter grazing 150 cows.
100% flat contour has enabled the vendors to crop approximately 30 hectares for many years. Recent soil tests - pH 5.7 Olsen P 32. Long consistent fertiliser history. Good access, cattle yards and loadout. 13 paddocks. Takeover Spring 2024.
See you at the Open Days.
Plus GST (if any) (Unless Sold Prior) Closes 2.00pm, Friday 16 August
10.00-11.00am, Wednesday 7 August
pwylie@pggwrightson.co.nz
Trades & Services
Trades & Services Jake's Drilling
SEAN CURRAN ROOFING
HO L ES
Foundation Holes
DANIEL JAQUES
Mob 027 261 2248
Specialising in re-roofing, roof maintenance, spouting, downpipes and light commercial work and roof leaks
Ph 027 493 2502
Need a qualified and experienced tradesman?
NEED A QUALIFIED AND EXPERIENCED TRADESMAN?
Plumbing • Gas Fitting
Plumbing • Gas Fitting
Drainlaying • Roofing
Ph Nigel 07 878 7877 027 674 3396
Email: nigel@npg.co.nz
HANDYMAN
Property maintenance and construction
Lawns, trees, stump grinding, sections, moss & mould treatments, Chemwash, waterblasting, gutter vac, water tank and trough cleaning fences, retaining, odd jobs and more. References available GST registered. Mike & Allana 027 350 0836 info@handy-man.co.nz
Their blooms are long-lasting, often remaining vibrant for several weeks, and their evergreen foliage adds year-round interest with its attractive, leathery leaves. Hellebores are incredibly versatile and can thrive in a range of garden settings.
They particularly love a shady or partially shaded area, making them perfect for woodland gardens or the understory of trees and shrubs.
They prefer well-drained, humus-rich soil and are relatively drought-tolerant once established, making them low-maintenance and easy to care for.
Another wonderful attribute of hellebores is their resistance to pests and diseases.
Deer and rabbits typically avoid them, you might say we don’t have a problem with deer and rabbits but I have a client that does and we have to purchase a
spray to keep them away from their plants. In addition to their beauty and hardiness, hellebores play a vital role in supporting early pollinators.
Their blooms provide an important source of nectar and pollen for bees and other insects emerging from winter dormancy, contributing to a healthy and balanced garden ecosystem.
In summary, hellebores are a wonderful choice for any garden due to their early and long-lasting blooms, stunning variety of colors, evergreen foliage, adaptability to shady conditions, low-maintenance nature, pest resistance.
Their role in supporting early pollinators and an added bonus is they self-seed if you don’t deadhead them so they can easily naturalise in your garden.
P.O. Box
Across
Additional (5) 4. Contusion (6) 7. Operate (3) 8. Fearful (6) 9. Lithe (6) 10. Old-fashioned (8) 12. Select (4) 13.
Pulse, 20. Open, 23. Nab. Last week
Signal, 4. Fluffy, 9. Motto, 10. Angelic, 11. Serpent, 13. Cage, 14. Marshmallow, 17. Area, 18. Expense, 21. Pensive, 22. Lined, 24. Needle, 25. Pebble.
Samosa, 2. Git, 3. Atone, 5. Logical, 6. Full-grown, 7. Yuck, 8. Bad-tempered, 12. Rearrange, 15. Spaniel, 16. Meddle, 19.
Situations Vacant
The Fat Pigeon Cafe in Piopio is an award-winning cafe, producing top quality home-made fare with a touch of city panache. Our purpose-built cafe is modern and aesthetically
Cook
We require a Cook to join ‘the pidgee crew’. The ideal candidate will possess the following skills and attributes:
• be passionate about all things food;
• able to prepare tasty, well presented dishes; • able to work efficiently in an often super-busy kitchen and multi-task; • willingness to provide our customers with the best cafe dining experience; • be keen to learn about and adhere to our Food Control Programme; • assist with catering, as required.
This position is on a rostered basis, therefore some weekend work is applicable.
Cafe Assistants
We require a FOH Cafe Assistants to join ‘the pidgee crew’. The ideal candidates will possess the following skills and attributes:
• be friendly, eager and excited to serve; • greet and serve customers at the till; • prepare and present cabinet food to cafe standards;
• food delivery to tables;
• barista skills would be an advantage however full training will be provided;
• assist with catering, as required.
These positions are on a rostered basis, therefore some weekend work is applicable.
Please phone 07 877 8822 or email your CV to fatpigeon@xtra.co.nz
Public Notice
WDC Representation Review
In accordance with the Local Electoral Act 2011, The Waitomo District Council reviewed its representation arrangements on 30 July 2024 and resolved to retain the existing representation arrangements. On that basis Council gives notice that the following proposal applies for the elections to be held on 11 October 2025.
Council Representation
It is proposed that the Council continues to comprise of six members elected from two wards, and the mayor elected at large. The two wards reflect the urban and rural communities of interest and are called the Te Kūiti Ward and the Waitomo Rural Ward. The population that each member will represent is as follows:
PHOTOS FOR SALE
Call into our King St East, Te Kuiti office today to view them and place your order!
* The populations used are the estimated resident population as at 30 June 2023 provided by Statistics NZ. They use the 2018 census as their base.
In accordance with section 19V (2) of the Local Electoral Act 2001 the population that each member represents must be within the range of 1,620 +/- 10% (that is 1458 to 1782), unless particular communities of interest considerations justify otherwise. Both wards fall within this range.
Community Boards
The proposal is to not establish any community boards.
Further information
Copies of Council’s resolution and maps setting out the areas of the proposed wards (no change from existing boundaries) may be viewed and obtained from the Council Customer Service Centre (160 Rora Street, Te Kūiti). Any queries regarding the Council’s proposal should be directed to the Chief Executive. Relevant information is also available on the Council’s website.
Submissions are invited
Persons with an interest in the proposed representation arrangements are invited to make a written submission on the proposal. Submissions must be received by 4pm on Monday 2 September 2024. Submissions may be submitted by the following methods:
Online: find more information and a submission form on our website at : Waitomo.govt.nz/council/haveyoursay
Email: haveyoursay@waitomo.govt.nz
Hand in: Council Customer Service Centre (160 Rora Street, Te Kūiti).
Post: Representation Review, Waitomo District Council, 15 Queen Street, Te Kūiti 3910
Please state in your submission if you wish to be heard by the Council. Council Hearings are scheduled for Tuesday, 10 September 2024.
Ben Smit CHIEF EXECUTIVE
Hayes Building Limited are looking for an experienced builder to join our growing business and to be a part of our friendly and professional team.
Requirements:
- Reliable and able to work 5 days per week
- Have own tool set
- Have an eye for detail and a very high standard of work
We offer:
- Competitive hourly rates
- Company vehicle
- Awesome team
If your interested in this position please get in touch with Jeremy on 027 873 5507 or email us at jeremy@hayesbuilding.co.nz
Email your classified ads to reception@kingcountrynews.co.nz
Don’t forget to include your billing details, name, address & daytime contact phone number
Livestock Manager Taumatamoana Station (TMS)
Are you passionate about livestock management and ready to take the next step in your career? Taumatamoana Station (TMS) is seeking a dynamic and experienced livestock manager to join our team!
About the role:
• Position: Livestock Manager
• Location: Beautiful coastal property in the Waitomo District (Taharoa)
• Farm Size: 3400 HA sheep and beef property
• Livestock: High-performance Romney flock and approximately 850 Cow Angus herd with excellent genetics
Responsibilities:
• Hands-on role working closely with the station manager
• Involved in breeding and stock performance direction
• Assist managing a team of 3 staff and a support shepherd
What we offer:
• Competitive salary package
• 4-bedroom house provided
• Opportunity to work on medium to steep hill country with a scenic coastal backdrop
Requirements:
• Proven experience in livestock management
• Strong leadership skills
• Ability to work collaboratively and independently
• Passion for animal breeding and genetics
If you’re looking for a challenging and rewarding role in a stunning location, we’d love to hear from you! Apply now and be part of a high-performing team dedicated to excellence in livestock management.
How to apply: Submit your application, including a resume and cover letter, to j.mcoviney@steelfort.co.nz by Friday, August 8. Please phone John for more information 027 442 3921.
Join us at Taumatamoana Station and help shape the future of our high-performance livestock!
Public Notice
Waitomo Sister City Cultural Exchange
Waitomo Sister City Cultural Exchange
We are inviting current (2024) Year 6 & 7 students, their families and interested people to an information evening about our proposed cultural exchange to Tatsuno in June 2025
Come along to find out more on Friday 16 August 2024 @ 5.30pm Te Kuiti Lyceum Club Hinerangi Street, Te Kuiti.
The establishment of our sister city relationship began when two fighter pilots – one from Tatsuno, Japan, Professor Kinase and Squadron Leader Les Munro, from Waitomo, meet at a World War II reunion. The two former enemies realised that both towns had several commonalities between them, the foremost of which is their fireflies and our glow worms, together with their shared war experience. The first delegation came to Waitomo in March 1993 for informal discussions. On 30 March 1995, an agreement was officially signed at a ceremony held at the Te Kuiti Pa. The agreement outlines key factors, the promotion of friendship and goodwill together with the endeavour to encourage an understanding and awareness of the separate cultures and the exchange of ideas between our people and communities. In 2025 the relationship will celebrate 30 years.
Timetable
Waitete Blue & White 100 July draw
1st No 20; 2nd No 55; 3rd No 1; 4th No 72; 5th No 8.
Meetings
Puketotara/ Ngutunui Hall
AGM
Held at the Hall Saturday, August 17 @ 2pm
Residents are urged to attend
NgutunuiHall@gmail.com Public Notices
RAJESH BAHUGUNA/CURRY AND TAHDOOR LIMITED, 161 Rora St, Te Kūiti 3910 has made application to the District Licensing Committee at Te Kūiti for the renewal of an on licence in respect of premises situated at 161 Rora St, Te Kūiti and known as Mini Indian Restaurant. The general nature of the business to be conducted under the licence is that of a Indian restaurant. The days on which and the hours during which alcohol is to be sold under the licence are Monday to Sunday 10am to midnight, 7 days a week. The application may be inspected during the ordinary office hours at the office of the District Licensing Committee at Waitomo District Council, Queen Street, Te Kūiti. Any person who is entitled to and wishes to object to the issue of the licence may, not later than 25 working days after the date of the publication of this notice, file a notice in writing of the objection with the Secretary of the District Licensing Committee at Waitomo District Council, PO Box 404, Te Kūiti 3941. No objection to the renewal of a licence may be made in relation to a matter other than a matter specified in Section 131 of the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act 2012. This is the second publication of this notice. This notice was first published on July 25, 2024.
ŌTOROHANGA BOWLS, CROQUET & RECREATION CLUB INC, ŌTOROHANGA has made application to the District Licensing Committee at Ōtorohanga District Council, Ōtorohanga for the renewal of a club licence in respect of the premises situated at 52 Te Kawa St, Ōtorohanga known as Ōtorohanga Bowls, Croquet & Recreation Club Inc. The general nature of the business conducted (or to be conducted) under the licence is a multi purpose sports club. The days on which and the hours during which alcohol is (or is intended to be) sold under the licence are Wednesday and Friday 4pm to 9pm, Thursday 10.30am to 9.30pm, Saturdays and Sundays 12.30pm to 8.30pm. The application may be inspected during ordinary office hours at the office of the Ōtorohanga District Licensing Committee, Ōtorohanga District Council, Maniapoto St, Ōtorohanga. Any person who is entitled to object and wishes to object to the issue of the licence may, not later than 25 working days after the date of the publication of this notice, file a notice in writing of the objection with the Secretary of the District Licensing Committee at Ōtorohanga District Council, PO Box 11, Ōtorohanga 3940. No objection to the issue of a licence may be made in relation to a matter other than a matter specified in section 105(1) of the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act 2012. No objection to the renewal of a licence may be made in relation to a matter other than a matter specified in section 131 of the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act 2012. This is the only publication of this notice.
Garage Sales
GARAGE SALE
10 Anzac Street Te Kūiti
Household items - something for everyone! August 3 & 4 8.30am onwards
Public Notice
Waitomo District Council Meeting Schedule 2024
The following is an updated Schedule of Waitomo District Council and Committee meetings for the remainder of 2024
Tuesday 13 August 2024 Audit and Risk Committee Meeting
Thursday 15 August 2024 Te Raangai Whakakaupapa Koorero Meeting
Tuesday 27 August 2024 Council Monthly Meeting
Tuesday 24 September 2024 Council Monthly Meeting
Tuesday 15 October 2024 Audit and Risk Committee Meeting
Tuesday 29 October 2024 Council Monthly Meeting
Tuesday 26 November 2024 Council Monthly Meeting
Any member(s) of the public wishing to speak at a Council meeting are required to gain approval from the Mayor at least three clear working days prior to the scheduled meeting.
An invitation is extended to members of the public to attend these meetings for observation purposes.
Meetings of Council are webcast in real time to the Waitomo District Council website and are also made available for viewing on demand as soon as reasonably practicable following the meeting.
A copy of the agendas for these meetings will be available on Council’s website two working days before the meeting.
Ben Smit Chief Executive
“Comfort, comfort my people” says your God. Isaiah 40:2
A call to pray for Te Kūiti
If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven... and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land. 2 Chronicles 7:14-16
Venue - St Luke’s Anglican Church, Esplanade, Te Kūiti
Sunday, August 11, 7pm
In Memoriam
HUIA, Beryl Vera: Piopio
The family of Beryl Vera Huia would like to express our heartfelt thanks and appreciation to all those who travelled from near and far to help us through the difficult time of losing our beloved mother and grandmother. We would also like to send our gratitude and thanks to the staff of Hillview for the wonderful care and friendship during her time there.
Also many thanks to the Paepae of Mokau Kohunui for your love, support and guidance.
To our Ringawera, your tireless mahi was amazing. We love and appreciate you all.
Loved always never to be forgotten.
GRAYSON, Robert Kennedy, (Bob): Peacefully at home surrounded by his loving family on Saturday, July 27, 2024. Dearly loved husband of Ngaire for 66 years. Much loved father and father-inlaw of Linda and Murray; Robyn; Paul and Sara; Michael and Jee. Adored grandad to his 14 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren. A funeral service for Bob has been held. We both made a promise That we’d never part It was forever My Sweetheart All communications to the Grayson Family C/PO Box 241, Te Kūiti 3941. VJ Williams & Sons, Funeral Directors Association of NZ.
Shirley May: Peacefully at Hillview Rest Home, Te Kūiti on July 25, 2024, aged, 89 years. Beloved wife of the late Trevor. Loved mother and mother-inlaw of Peter, Murray and Megan, Leanne and John, Sandra, Tim and Rachell. Adored nana to 14 grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren. A celebration of Shirley’s life will be held at V J Williams and Sons Chapel on Friday, August 2 at 12pm, followed by interment at Te Kūiti Cemetery. All communications to the Jones family C/- PO Box 241, Te Kuiti 3941. VJ Williams & Sons, Funeral Directors Association of NZ.
SUN, Gordon: Born August 13, 1936. Passed away peacefully on July 20, 2024 in his 88th year. Gordon was a beloved brother, uncle, great uncle and cherished friend. Known for his kind soul and generous spirit, he touched the lives of many and will be deeply missed by all who knew him. The Sun Family would like to thank the staff at Aria Park Retirement Village in Auckland and his closest friends for their compassionate care and support during his final days. Following his wishes, a private cremation has been held in Auckland.
JONES,
