Cambridge News | September 19, 2024

‘Jet setter’ rewarded

By Mary Anne Gill

The residents at Cambridge Life are never quite sure what Epiphany Jackson is going to come up with to keep their wits about them.

And while her name suggests she comes up with the programmes in an instant, the opposite is the case, and she has recently been honoured for the initiatives she designs.

Jackson has been awarded the Judy Cooper National Excellence Award by the New Zealand Society of Diversional and Recreational Therapists. The award highlights innovation, dedication, and excellence in improving the quality of life for residents through therapeutic recreation.

“People think we’re just playing games and that’s our job, but not really. When residents come into the facility, I do a holistic and physical assessment. From there I write a care plan for them based on that, what they used to do, what they like and what they are capable of. So, it’s not just bingo,” she said.

The case study she used for the award

was an activity she designed around international travel.

“Some of our residents and staff are not able to go abroad anymore. So, I’ve got the world coming to them through armchair travel.

“Every month we go around the world to different countries. We select the countries based on something like Independence Day in the US or anything special in the country,” said Jackson.

She made passports and boarding passes. They get stamps and lineup in a boarding area - and always travel first class.

“We will watch a safety video, things like that and then we serve food I’ve prepared.

“When we went to Japan, we had sushi. Belgium, we had Belgian chocolate and made some Belgian waffles.”

Resident Terry Murphy, who tipped The News off about the award, said the activities always keep him on his toes.

He has lived at Cambridge Life for 15 months.

A recent virtual domestic “trip” to the West Coast made him laugh.

“She had a huge aeroplane taking us to Hokitika Airport.”

Residents also get one on one attention. Murphy loves fixing things, so she asked him to sand down a table for her as part of him keeping busy and alert.

She gives them all pet names – Terrific Terry is his.

Jackson is originally from the Philippines where she was a registered pharmacist. She travelled to New Zealand on a student visa to study diversional recreational therapies and is now getting her pharmacy degree recognised here.

In the Philippines she owned a chemist shop.

She started at Cambridge Life three years ago during the Covid pandemic.

She and husband Brenton, from Cambridge, are both studying, he accountancy and she pharmacy.

The national award was named after Judy Cooper who was a champion for aged people care and a former patron of the New Zealand Society of Diversional and Recreational Therapy.

Promotion hopes on a knife edge

By Roy Pilott

Cambridge men’s Northern League Football target is 90-minutes and a trip to Waiheke Island away.

A 1-nil win over the islanders has Cambridge ahead in this home and away promotion play off - but Jordan Shaw’s squad travels to Waiheke United knowing their opponent will be confident.

Cambridge will send

minivans north for Saturday’s second leg – knowing a traditionally hostile South American welcome awaits.

It’s a huge weekend for the club. On Sunday its women’s team – also vying for promotion to the Northern League – start their own home and away play off against Onehunga in Auckland.

Saturday’s match, in awful weather at John Kerkhof Park, threatened to boil over at any

time late on - it actually did on the sideline.

The game ebbed and flowed to such a degree that as much as the hosts could have won 3-0 - they grazed the crossbar twice and missed a couple of golden opportunities – this match almost ended in a draw.

Jack Connor’s fifth minute strike sealed the win in a predictably feisty game which saw referee Andy Holdsworth show seven yellow cards –

and one to Shaw.

That came late on as the two benches began heckling and eventually it became a spot the ball contest as Waiheke became frustrated when spare balls on the sideline disappeared at throw ins.

Both side had late chances, and even if home fans would have wanted more than a one goal margin, they were relieved to hear Holdsworth’s final whistle.

Epiphany Jackson with Cambridge Life resident Terry Murphy who she encourages to keep busy by sanding a table for her.

Photo: Mary Anne Gill.

Cambridge keeper Wade Vincent is at full stretch as Waiheke’s Ramon Linder gets between centrebacks Jack Portegys and Thomas Walters. This shot went wide. More photos cambridgenews.nz

Photo: Roy Pilott

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Bring out yer bags…

By Mary Anne Gill

An organisation which has helped hundreds of Waikato women into the workforce has partnered with Violence Free Waipā on a “handbag drive”.

Dress for Success has agreed to support the pilot ‘I Am Me’ programme in Cambridge by joining the appeal for pre-loved handbags.

Violence Free Waipā coordinator Anne Morrison said I Am Me will focus on empowering women who have been victims

Mural discussion

It was an interesting article in the Cambridge News (This bird has flown, September 12) about the mural in Leamington Domain.

The mural artwork is beautiful. I walk my dog around the perimeter of the domain on a weekly basis and believed it would be a target for vandals - to pull off the pop outs. Some were pulled off at least one year ago and thrown around the park near the picnic table. I have picked up a few and placed them back on the ground nearby. Some were ripped off in entirety and some in small pieces. One after another targeted. Probably a random passer-by or two.

of family violence and supporting them and other women to return to work.

Assisting women to get back on their feet after being the victims of violence is at the heart of the 12-day initiative which starts next week.

“Many women leave relationships with the clothes they are standing up in or have very little in the way of suitable clothes for job interviews, house viewing, jobs etc,” said Morrison.

Dress for Success executive manager Erin

Remove the temptation to pull other bits off and leave the mural alone.

I do not believe it is Mother Nature.

Gillian Hogan Leamington

Well said

I congratulate Gwynneth Purdie on her letter (The News September 12) around Māori Wards.

At the time of the council, along with many other councils, making the undemocratic decision to create Māori wards, I wrote to the council asking for their rationale. The answer from both Waipā and Taupō, two councils that I get to vote in, was that Māori were under represented.

Andersen said more than 3900 Waikato women had used the service since it was established in 2002.

“The majority of our clients are in the process of securing work or starting a new job. We extend our services to women attending a house viewing, court appearance, leaving a custodial sentence, or displaced due to domestic violence.”

Drop off points in Cambridge will be at the Community House and Citizens’ Advice Bureau.

Women, people under 40 and children are all unrepresented - should we have a ward for them? Of course this would be ridiculous and unnecessary, but you can see my point. I also made the point that what they were doing was insulting to Māori as they were very capable of standing for local council seats, in their own right.

The problems around local bodies are our fault. We don’t vote in great numbers, we don’t get the right people to stand, so we get what we deserve. I am being disrespectful to those on our current councils, as I am sure that they want to do the right thing. Councils need to go back to basics and do their core roles well.

If we want a Māori voice, and I am not sure why their views would be more important than anyone else’s, then let’s encourage candidates by all means, to stand for the general seats on councils.

We had another spate of car thefts overnight last Saturday, most of in Cambridge East.

Circumstances indicate local involvement – or at least a local connection - and we are working hard to identify the perpetrators. Offenders, especially youth, commonly brag about their crimes to friends and social networks. If anyone has seen suspicious activity or is aware of relevant information or social media activity that relates to local car thefts, please let Police know straight away.

Car crime is costly and frustrating for the victims involved. The sooner we can catch the offenders and hold them to account, the better. Phone 105 or to talk anonymously, contact 0800 555 111. If you see offending in progress, call 111 without delay.

In other news, we had a report of a daytime theft from a parked car at Lake Te Koo Utu that occurred last Friday around 4pm. At this time of day there would have been lots of people around, but no one appears to have seen anything, or if they did, felt confident enough to call. It is a timely reminder that theft from a vehicle

can happen at any time of day or night, and we must always be sure to take handbags and other valuable items out with us when we park our cars. At the very least, ensure your valuable items are completely hidden from sight – do not just rely on dark tints.

Last but not least, the role of Officer in Charge, Cambridge Station, is a pivotal one. Sergeant Ben Joll held the position from 2020 to 2024. In July, a new Sergeant was appointed following Ben’s promotion to the rank of Senior Sergeant and associated move to a role in Hamilton. Some of you may have already met Sergeant Greg Foster, who was appointed his replacement. Greg has served in the New Zealand Police for 28 years, broken only by a brief stint back in the corporate world. He is local resident and arrives at Cambridge station with a wealth of knowledge and experience.

Greg is looking forward to working with the motivated staff at Cambridge Police and to getting out and meeting the community. Have a good week and stay safe.

Dennis Catchpole

Te Awamutu

Service honoured

Waipā District Council group manager Service

Delivery Dawn Inglis has been honoured for her 40year career by Taituarā, New Zealand’s local government professional organisation. Inglis began as an engineering cadet, and she told councillors it had been a “fabulous and very rewarding” career to look back on.

Objections heard

Three objections to an application by Ultimate Rally Group for a temporary road closure during Labour Weekend to hold the Targa Rally were dismissed by Waipā District Council’s Service Delivery committee this week.

Clams found

Divers have found golden clams visible on the riverbed at Waipā’s Pukerimu River intake, but they are not impacting any water supply infrastructure and are not responsible for severe corrosion of the intake line. The Pukerimu Water Supply Scheme sources water from the Waikato River and services rural households between Te Awamutu and Cambridge, Hamilton Airport, Ōhaupō and Mystery Creek.

Clarification

The story ‘We chose Steph’ which ran in The News (August 29) said there were 250 invited guests at new chief executive Stephanie O’Sullivan’s powhiri. There were 118 invited guests and more than 50 students from Te Awamutu Intermediate's kapa haka group, plus their whānau and supporters. We estimated there were 250 people attended.

New leases

New five-year leases were to be granted to the Cambridge Dog Obedience and Hautapu Sports and Recreation clubs by Waipā’s Finance and Corporate committee this week.

Aussie flights:

It was always when – not if

By Mary Anne Gill

Mark Morgan had a twinkle in his eye when he spoke about the possibility international flights could be returning to Hamilton Airport.

It was the end of June and The News put the question to him following up on our front page the previous month when we reported Aussies were eyeing our airport.

“When can we see the return of international flights to Waikato?” we asked.

The answer was non-committal then but earlier this week the Waikato Regional Airport boss confirmed it would be next year and Qantas subsidiary Jetstar would provide three return flights a week to the Gold Coast and four return flights to Sydney.

The international flights would be the first out of the council-owned Hamilton Airport in 13 years. Virgin Australia’s final flight from Hamilton to Brisbane was in October 2012.

“It’s been hard, complex work, in a very sensitive commercial environment and we are thrilled to have pulled this off,” said Morgan.

“The benefits for the entire region – not just passengers – are huge. Analysis indicates the flights will

boost the regional economy by about $45 million per year.”

Three months ago, Morgan said the growing pressure on Auckland Airport and the traffic congestion around the area had opened up the international possibilities for Waikato.

“Our market eventually is transTasman or the islands. It’s not LA or Europe,” he said.

The time was ripe because of Waikato’s growth, particularly with Hamilton being the fastest growing city in the country.

“I think there is a real opportunity. We can have conversations, we can advocate but it has to make commercial sense to us and the airlines,” he said.

Clearly it made sense as he confirmed he had more conversations with airlines in the last couple of years than he had in the preceding five or six years.

It was the growth of the North Island and the catchment of Waikato, Bay of Plenty, Rotorua then south to Taupō and the King Country which would attract airlines, he said then.

Having flights mid-morning from Hamilton would change the way you think about international travel, he said.

The aircraft used on the trans-

Tasman routes will be a 188-seater A320 Neo. The airport’s northern terminal will be prepared for Customs, border control, aviation security and other services.

The airport is a council-controlled organisation owned by Hamilton City, Ōtorohanga, Waipā, Waikato and Matamata-Piako councils and is the umbrella for subsidiary companies Hamilton Airport, Jet Park Hotel Hamilton Airport, Hamilton & Waikato Tourism and Titanium Park Limited.

While called Hamilton Airport, it is in Rukuhia, part of the Waipā district.

Mayor Susan O’Regan, who was born and brought up near the airport, said she was “absolutely stoked”.

“…all of us will benefit from flights in and out of the airport which is, after all, in our district. These flights will mean 65,000 visitors each year landing in our patch so the economic potential from visitors alone is fantastic.”

Once flights begin Jetstar will become the fourth airline using Hamilton Airport for scheduled flights.

Other carriers include Air New Zealand, Sunair and Originair.

Service award honours Waipā dentist

By Viv Posselt

Cambridge dentist James Goodrich has been honoured with a New Zealand Dental Association Public Service Award.

The award recognises a member who exemplifies humanitarian ideals and attributes and was presented at the association’s recent awards dinner in Christchurch.

The 2024 Public Service Award was shared between Goodrich and Auckland’s Dr David Wallbridge.

On all counts, it could be made-to-measure for Goodrich, a genial dental practitioner and forensic odontologist with a fulsome backstory.

His Bachelor of Dental Surgery (with distinction) is

from the University of Otago; he is a Fellow of the Faculty of Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology of the Royal College of Pathologists of Australasia, and a Fellow of the New Zealand Society of Pathologists. He serves on multiple Boards in various countries and often speaks at international conferences.

He is president of the New Zealand Society of Forensic Odontology, and serves as technical advisor to the National Institute of Forensic Science, and the Australia New Zealand Policing Advisory Agency. He is also the New Zealand observer for the International Organisation for Standardisation in forensic odontology, and an associate editor of the Egyptian Journal of Forensic Science.

In 2015, Goodrich was the only New Zealander involved in the recovery and repatriation of the remains of American Marine, 1st Lt Alexander ‘Sandy’ Bonnyman Jr, one of four recipients of the US Medal of Honour for action in the WW2 battle on Tarawa in the Pacific. Goodrich joined a team led by Florida’s History Flight, an organisation working with the United States defence forces to recover the remains of missing US service personnel. At the time, Goodrich described the experience as a privilege and ‘very humbling’.

He has worked in Cambridge since 1999, running his practice and continuing to contribute to the police, coronial services

and the New Zealand Defence Force as a forensic odontologist, covering events such as the Christchurch earthquakes, the Mosque shootings, and the Whakaari White Island volcano eruption.

He is also active in the field of mental health. He has a certificate in Global Mental Health from Harvard Medical School and is involved with Mates Matter NZ – an organisation promoting mental wellness in the Waikato.

Any down time is likely taken up with his study of Tikanga Māori, or his ties to the Cambridge High School Board of Trustees. He recently accompanied his daughter Annabel Goodrich, a national junior target shooter and captain of the

Dr James Goodrich

CHS shooting team, on an away trip. As for the award? “It’s a great honour for me. The very nature of forensic work is that it comes at such short notice. I wouldn’t have been able take the time off for that work without the support of my staff and patient base. I am very grateful to them all.”

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Waipā mayor Susan O’Regan, centre, celebrates the return of international flights to Hamilton Airport with chief executive Steph O’Sullivan, left, and Matamata-Piako mayor Adrienne Wilcock.

Riding for respect

By Mary Anne Gill

The sight of 16 horses and their riders trotting through Cambridge township on Saturday brought back memories for horseman Stewart Dromgool.

Daughter Hope Spooner gave him the pooper scooper so the horses she brought together to ride in the Pass Wide and Slow awareness campaign ride did not leave their business behind them.

Dromgool, who was in the Cambridge Pony Club with Mark Todd in the 1970s, recalls clip clopping on their horses along the main street and over the Victoria (High Level) Bridge.

“I’m not sure I’d do that now,” he said as he walked behind scooping up horse poo.

Spooner, who was born and went to school in Cambridge, is dismayed at the speed vehicles pass her when riding out with her

children on Peake Road.

“We ride there quite often and we have a lot of cars speeding up behind us. They’re not even looking out for us sometimes… they’re on their phones…”

Riders across New Zealand are petitioning the government to have horse riders’ vulnerability recognised in land transport legislation.

Pedestrians and cyclists are vulnerable road users – and able to use footpaths and cycleways, but horses and riders, who cannot use them - are not “vulnerable users”.

“We want to create awareness so when authorities are planning… horses are actually brought into the planning because at the moment there’s no consideration for horses and riders,” said Spooner.

In Cambridge there are no bridle paths on places like the Te Awa Cycleway which is frustrating as it would have been a nice place for

horse and riders to go, she said.

“People often say to me ‘you shouldn’t be riding on the road’. Roads are for cars is the mentality of kiwis. But that’s not so, particularly here in Cambridge.

The 4km ride on Saturday started at Cambridge East Maungakawa Pony Club on Taylor Street, down the middle part of Victoria Street and into town via Lake Street. Negotiating Queen Street and the busy roundabout in front of the Town Clock could have been nasty but traffic was respectful, said Spooner.

The cavalcade took in Alpha, Dick and Bryce streets before riding along Hamilton Road towards Vogel Street and back to the pony club.

Pass wide and slow is the behaviour the petition also wants all drivers to follow when they see a horse and rider on the road.

• More photos cambridgenews.nz

Council defends ‘low risk’ investment

A media release outlining a low-risk arbitrage deal to net a near $400,000 profit was in the interest of transparency and not intended to outline the council’s financial situation, says Waipā District Council deputy chief executive Ken Morris.

He was responding to a story in last week’s edition of The News in which a Cambridge Community Board member, Andrew Myers, said the council was at its debt ceiling and the media release should have focussed on the position of overall debt and the growing debt burden.

Morris said a $50 million prefunding deal through to April next year, was a good news story for ratepayers.

“In our Enhanced Annual Plan we are due to take on $106 million of new debt before June 2025, and $50 million is a very reasonable, proportionate amount of prefunding that fits well with our approved borrowing programme.”

The deal had been advised by the council’s treasury adviser Bancorp and was considered “a well-advised and measured transaction”.

“One of the key things taken into consideration in determining the appropriateness of the deal was the interest rate payable on the borrowing, particularly in a market where the rates are anticipated to fall. The interest rate was in our target range and of course the pricing reflects market expectations of falling interest rates over the

period of the loan,” Morris said.

He said arbitrage opportunities were not uncommon in the Local Government sector and Local Authorities were offered attractive borrowing rates through Local Government Funding Agency borrowing arrangements, which made such deals profitable.

“In the two to three years leading up to Covid, we entered a number of arbitrage arrangements and netted over $1 million of gain over that period.”

The council was working on its 2025-34 Long Term Plan and reviewing its financial strategy.

“Explanations for increased borrowing and our plans to manage this over time, will be the focus of that financial strategy and we will be consulting with the community on that, in the first half of next year,” Morris said.

The trickiest bit was the roundabout outside the Town Clock but none of the horses got spooked as the traffic showed respect for the campaign.

Photo: Mary Anne Gill.

Ken Morris

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Meat and greet at the movies

By Mary Anne Gill

Matt Hicks has two newborn babies – Thomas who he left at home with wife Sarah and big sister Madeline, 2½, - and the movie Home Kills, which premiered in Waipā last week.

The screenings in Cambridge on Thursday and Te Awamutu on Sunday wrapped up a gruelling tour which started in Matamata on September 2, four days after Thomas was born.

Question and answer screenings were also held in Putāruru, Hamilton, Whitianga, Thames and Raglan.

The movie was filmed over three weeks in Tīrau, Putāruru, Horahora, Leamington and Hautapu late 2022.

“I love my family, but they’ve really drained my filmmaking finances and the time I can spend on it,” joked Hicks, 37.

For the Cambridge born, Maungatautari Primary and Cambridge High Schooleducated part time DJ, marriage celebrant, actor and film producer, the Waipā screenings were special.

When the credits roll at the end of the movie, the names right at the end are worth waiting for as they are a who’s who of Hicks’ friends and friends of friends and the people of Maungatautari, where he grew up and even has a road named after his family. Most of them turned up for

the premieres and it was them he turned to when scouting locations.

“They’re genuine people. It was like ringing up my cousin or ringing up my old mate. When I said the places we needed, they were enthusiastic and they were like ‘oh, we’ve got a lead for you’.”

Having Maungatautari –Sanctuary Mountain – as the backdrop for so many scenes was inspiring.

And with a limited budget, there was no recompense in the way of money.

“So, we would give them, you

know, a bottle of wine or a 12 pack of Waikato Draught.”

Hicks has The Tavern, another film, in post-production. Shot in and around the Masonic Hotel in 2019, it also features lots of locals. It will be released next year.

“That is the most Cambridge movie you can possibly imagine. We filmed at The Stables – we turned that into a strip club –and in the Masonic and at the racetrack. We actually filmed a horse race.”

There were heaps of celebrity cameos – jockeys, a famous sportsman and local identities. It finishes with a blooper reel.

“I’ve worked too hard on it to drop it into the market now and try to release something around Christmas/New Year because that’s absolute chaos.”

Mayor Susan O’Regan loved Home Kills and seeing Waikato scenery featured.

“It was wonderful to see a locally shot and supported independent film on the big screen.

“Alongside a gritty script - complete with twists and turns - and brilliant acting, the moody landscapes of our region made this film a real must see experience.”

Looking for a water site

By Mary Anne Gill

The Public Works Act may be enforced to find land for a new Karāpiro reservoir and pumpstation.

Water Services manager Martin Mould told Waipā council’s Service Delivery committee this week the council had identified land on Maungatautari Road.

The council cannot use a high point at the northern end of Lake Karāpiro, 5km southeast of Cambridge, long-term because of its cultural significance.

It is a recorded archaeological site - Te Tiki o te Ihingarāngi - which was the home of Te Ihingārangi, tūpuna of Ngāti Koroki Kahukura and where Waikato Māori unsuccessfully engaged British troops under General Duncan Cameron in 1864.

“Staff are in the early stages of talking to a willing landowner, but also in parallel have undertaken high level scoping of suitable land parcels along Maungatautari Road in case we need to utilise the Public Works Act to secure an appropriate site in the future,” said Mould in a report to the committee.

The Karāpiro water plant – one of six Waipā operates to supply water to over 16,050 properties through 645 kilometres of water mains and pipes – is at its 14,000 cubic metres per day capacity.

A bloodied lower arm movie prop hidden behind her seat won Raewyn Margan, second left, a meat pack at the Home Kills movie. From left writer, director, producer Hadyn Butler, mayor Susan O’Regan presenting the meat pack and producer Matt Hicks.

Photo: Mary Anne Gill.

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ON SHAKY GROUND

The most important qualification

By Murray Smith, Bridges Church

Recently a sad ‘medical mishap’ was reported through a media outlet in India.

Evidently a seriously unwell 15-year-old boy in the northeastern state of Bihar was rushed to hospital vomiting violently. The boy’s grandfather asserted during a New Delhi television interview that a doctor started operating on the boy without parental consent. The doctor had sent the father off to attend to other matters, while he proceeded with an operation.

The family was soon told their teenage son had a stone in his gallbladder that needed removing. Things spiralled for the teen following the ‘operation’. An ambulance had to be called to take the young patient to another hospital. It was alleged he died in transit with the doctor abandoning his patient and ‘disappearing’. It is claimed this “doctor” was a fake practitioner and did not have medical qualifications.

“He conducted the operation by watching videos on YouTube. Our boy died later…” a family member said. At face value this tragic incident appears to be the result of an unqualified person attempting surgery that went badly wrong. It brought to my mind a movie, titled “Catch Me if You Can,” directed and produced by Steven Spielberg. Based around a true story, actor Leonardo DiCaprio played the part of 19-year-old Frank Abagnale Jr, a con artist, who posed as an airline pilot, doctor and a lawyer and cashed forged cheques worth millions of dollars before his 21st birthday. A relentless FBI agent eventually nailed this fraudulent conman bringing him to justice. If Frank Abagnale had been actually asked to fly a passenger plane, or attempt a medical procedure, it would have been a disaster. He was totally unequipped and

unqualified.

Imagine the precarious situation that could develop with someone falsely claiming to be qualified or eligible to pilot a passenger plane and getting approval to fly. I became friends with a man who emigrated to New Zealand after piloting international flights in the Gulf states for years. He entered ‘re-training’ to fly for our national airline, but his grasp of English was considered inadequate and the doors closed. Skilled in aeronautics, he turned to building and flying solo micro-light aircraft. But he remained disqualified from pursuing his real dream of returning to piloting passenger aircraft.

Learning we’ve been ‘disqualified’ from anything, can be terribly disappointing. There’s one circumstance where disqualification will prove beyond disappointing - more like, devastatingly tragic. I’m referring to a basic assumption many of us carry of considering ourselves ‘qualified’ to enter heaven.

Most people think of themselves as a ‘good’ person and optimistically imagine, (‘should heaven exist’) that they’ll hopefully ‘make the cut’ Heaven is real - so is having the assurance of knowing that you are in fact ‘qualified’ to go there… because it’s not by trusting in your own goodness, rather in what Jesus has done on your behalf. He alone has met every requirement to ensure we are eligible. God’s qualification standard for entering into all that He has prepared in heaven, requires us to fully trust in Jesus - He alone has atoned for our sins and can impart the gift of righteousness we need to receive eternal life in heaven.

When the ground moves

By Janine Krippner

Last week I discussed our tectonic plates and the Hikurangi Subduction Zone (HSZ). It’s important to understand these processes and not just as a geologist. If you’re a Marvel movie fan, to quote Peter Quill - it’s important “because I’m one of the idiots who lives in it!”

I’m not calling anyone an idiot, I just like the quote.

We are fortunate to have incredible mountains, habitats, and resources thanks to our geological processes. We also aren’t powerless when it comes to the scarier aspects. We can take action to ensure we are less impacted and can recover faster when our faults move. The first step is to understand them, which has been ongoing for decades thanks to seismologists and other experts.

We know that tectonic plates move at about the same speed that your fingernails grow, causing significant change over millions of years. When the faults between or within them move quickly we get earthquakes. Subduction zones like ours produce the world’s largest earthquakes and tsunamis, like the horrific 2004 Boxing Day (Sunda subduction zone) and 2011 Tōhoku (Japan Trench) events.

When we see an earthquake location on a map it is represented as a dot, but earthquakes are movement of rock across a plane. Imagine holding two books and sliding them past each other. The epicentre is the spot on land above where the earthquake begins, and where it begins below the surface is the hypocentre. Earthquakes are so complex that seismologists simplify the information so we can all understand the important bits quickly.

To simplify it, the greater the area that quickly slips, the longer the shaking and the bigger the magnitude. The Richter scale is no longer used as it’s not accurate, if you see this

term in the media it’s not correct. It can take longer for a larger area to slip. When this makes the ground move upwards below the ocean, this can trigger the large tsunamis. That’s why we say if it’s long or strong get gone (evacuate from a beach and go uphill).

The potential size of an earthquake is related to the area of a fault that could move. The Tōhoku earthquake was so impactful because movement occurred over an area 400km long and 150km wide. Recent research shows that there’s a one in four (25%) chance of a major earthquake in our HSZ during the next 50 years. It is also capable of producing a magnitude nine earthquake, like the Tōhoku event.

We have over 500 mapped faults in Aotearoa that could produce a magnitude six-plus earthquake. You can explore the known active onshore faults in the “New Zealand Active Faults Database” online. Thankfully we are not powerless.

Earthquakes can happen at any time so it’s important that we remember what to do. Always drop, cover, and hold until the earthquake is over. If you try to move you can be knocked over or become a target for dangerous falling objects. Have a household plan, where would you meet if you are separated? There is plenty of important advice at getready.govt.nz.

We can’t predict when a major earthquake will occur, or the size, but we can take action to improve our chances of being okay. We have the power to get through these events together, just as many people around the world do each year.

Smoothing the way for Menz Shed

More than 50 Cambridge Community Menz Shed members are restoring a former dairy factory – which they will eventually call home.

That building on the corner of Lamb and Carlyle streets in Leamington was built about 120 years ago and more recently has been slowly deteriorating.

Members saw it just prior to last Christmas and secretary Myles Prebble said despite its condition, it was a perfect size and location for their use.

The project has had considerable support from the business community. Contractor Paul Garland donated the use of machinery and staff to clear the site – and members have contributed hundreds of hours to clear out the building, demolish unwanted walls and water blast inside and out.

Most recently a team from GDK Contracting in Cambridge laid a concrete floor - new wiring and lighting and a full pipe-out and plumbing installation are to come. BuildLink Cambridge has also

provided materials and expertise.

Over the next two months the roof will be repaired and roller doors installed at each end of the building. Shed members will repair weatherboards and paint the exterior, before starting the internal partitioning and lining for a workshop, kitchen and smoko-room.

“Over the years the old building became the headquarters of some very prominent Cambridge businesses including J D Wallace and Ross Todd,” Prebble said. “This history has piqued the interest of one of the Menz Shed members who is researching and compiling a complete history of the building, and in due course the group intend to put up several information boards displaying this history along their road frontage.”

The Menz Shed have signed a long-term lease on the building. The restoration project is expected to cost around $75,000 funded by grants and donations.

Prebble said that there is a wave of support within the community for this project,

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CAMBRIDGE VOLUNTEER FIRE BRIGADE CALLS OVER THE LAST WEEK

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CAMBRIDGE VOLUNTEER FIRE BRIGADE C ALLS OVER THE L AST WEEK

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WEDNESDAY 3:28pm, 3 car MVA, SH 5 Tapapa

9:55am, Cardiac Arrest, Bryce Street

1:09pm, Building Alarm and evacuation, Ruakura Road

FRIDAY 5:33am, Building alarm and evacuation, Swayne Road 12:19pm, Building alarm and evacuation Scotsman Valley Road

11:56pm, Building Alarm and evacuation, Hautapu Road

SATURDAY 4:40pm, Fire in the vicinity, Tennyson Street

SUNDAY 5:27am, Building alarm and evacuation, Cambridge Road

FRIDAY 8:42am, Building Alarm and evacuation. Maungatautari Road

SUNDAY 3:53am, Medical assistance, Karapiro Road

MONDAY 7:41am, Building alarm and evacuation, Alan Livingstone Drive 12:54pm, Building alarm and evacuation, Swayne Road

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GDK Contracting staff at work in Cambridge’s newest “repair shop”.

Photo: Michael Jeans.

The importance of records

By Peter Carr

inglorious and bloody land grab, the (then) British armed forces started a southwards drive at Pokeno. This was to create a land grab from the Māori owners in the Waikato and to attain a superior military and landowning ability.

militarily and in skills and weaponry. They retreated south along the Waikato River, stopping from time to time to engage in heavily imbalanced warfare at redoubtsespecially at Rangiriri and Alexandra (now Pirongia). Their route took them upriver as far as Ngāruawāhia where a decision had to be made as to maintain a Waikato River route or to bend towards the south along the muddy waters that comprise the Waipa River. In choosing the latter they were mindful of their large stocks of grain and (subsequent) flour held in stores along the banks of that river.

The sad and much renowned battle near Kihikihi essentially saw the beginning of the end of the skirmishes and the military parties agreed a truce at the Punui River (thus entering the King Country) and the Aukati Line between Cambridge and Karāpiro.

During this period the British troops stationed at Cambridge – morphed into and renamed the Cambridge Armed Constabulary – attempted to establish their own redoubt –or fort – at the highest land point in the town being colloquially known as Māori Hill. At the top of what is now Coleridge Street. This was in order that the Constabulary members could use this vertical standpoint to keep an eye on the Māori who would, no doubt, attempt to rejoin the Waikato River to secure and maintain their flour mill at the bottom of (now) Shakespeare Street. The Constabulary decided

owners of the hill and its surrounds accepted a gift comprising a mast from a 1930’s Dutch racing yacht which had found its way to New Zealand during the 1990’s. This lovely piece of timber now stands proud on the spot where the original from 160 years ago would have stood and where the national flag of New Zealand flies proudly. Viewable from a surprising number of points around Cambridge.

Too often – and too soon – we lose our ability to record – and keep alive – facets of our history which these days drifts even further into obscurity when educationalists (not the teachers mind) fiddle with the boundaries and accuracy of what has gone on before. Looking at the Te Awamutu library – upon which I commented favourably a few weeks ago – I am driven to ask to what extent we, as citizens and our local council, are prepared to undertake to ensure our wee, somewhat shy, Cambridge Museum does not fall by the wayside and become swallowed into a whole-of-district nonentity.

GREAT BED DEALS

Tourist spend rises

By Mary Anne Gill

Shorter stays with higher spending per visitor.

That’s the summary of both domestic and international trends in the Waikato for the financial year ended June 30, Hamilton and Waikato Tourism general manager Nicola Greenwell told Waipā’s Finance and Corporate committee this week.

The meeting was held after The News went to press but was expected to be bittersweet as Waipā is one of five councils – the others are Matamata-Piako, Ōtorohanga, Waikato and Waitomo – to reduce its funding from July 1.

Waipā reduced it by 20 per cent to $147,000 a year, Waitomo by 60 per cent to $30,000 and Ōtorohanga by 50 per cent to $35,000.

Hamilton city with $716,000 was the only council to maintain its funding.

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“The team remained committed to delivering our regular mahi ensuring we continue to build a visitor sector that provides economic, social and cultural wellbeing for our communities,” Greenwell said in her report.

It was the international sector which showed the most significant contrast. Despite a 14 per cent decline in guest nights, international visitor spending rose by 14 per cent.

International visitors to Waikato spent $123.6 million in the 11 months to May – a 22 per cent increase on the previous year. Visitors to Waipā spent $17.2 million, up 22.9 per cent on the previous year.

Domestic guest nights across the region dipped slightly but spending surpassed the national average and was the fastest growing among central North Island regions. Waikato captured 7.3 per

cent of the domestic visitor spending market across New Zealand spending $784 million in the 11 months to May.

In Waipā, the spend was $178.9 million, a 7.8 per cent increase with visitors from Waikato region, Auckland and Bay of Plenty contributing the most to domestic spend.

Economic indicators told a positive story with transport services – coaches and cruises – leading the surge with a 22 per cent increase in employment earnings.

Accommodation and food and beverage dipped three per cent in earnings across the region while business events fell significantly. The organisation assisted with 20 regional conference bids winning 10, losing nine and with one still pending.

Occupancy rates in Waipā dipped below the national average of 55.1 per cent settling at 49.7 per cent for the year.

Band turns on a treat

Usually at this time of year the Cambridge Brass Band would be hard at work rehearsing for the annual Waikato Bay of Plenty regional brass band competition.

Last year they hosted the event and collected two places in the D Grade division.

This year, due to losing a number of key players to work or study in other cities, they decided not to take part – and instead, staged a free concert at the Cambridge Town Hall last Friday.

Brass and Beyond: A Screen Spectacular featured pieces chosen to suit the current mix of players, and the band also romped through some old TV and film theme tune favourites.

Highlights included Edelweiss from The Sound of Music featuring a cornet solo from youngest band members Katrina and

tuba, replete in his bear suit.

The band is tuning up to celebrate 150 years in 2027.

Temporary alcohol ban

An alcohol ban for events being held in Lake Karāpiro Domain from this weekend – when the New Zealand Masters Rowing nationals will be held – until May next year, at the conclusion of the Legion of Rowers regatta, has been approved by Waipā District Council. Temporary bans have been in place since 2011 but exclude the Don Rowlands Centre and a period between 5-9pm for campers in the domain.

Project underway

Work has restarted on the Cambridge stormwater outfall project in the C3 growth cell between St Peter’s School and Te Awa Lifecare Village, delayed by six months when archaeological features – fence posts and fire pits - were discovered. Iwi and Heritage New Zealand have said the work can continue.

Time extended

Cambridge

Community House has varied its lease with Waipā District Council to extend it by eight years from March 2031 through to March 2039. The trust owns all the buildings on the site including the original cottage which it bought for $1 eight years ago. Services provided are drug and alcohol assessment, family/ whānau, youth and general counselling, financial mentoring, family violence response, support and prevention.

Drought gardens

A campaign will get underway soon and include a scavenger hunt, workshops and a competition to showcase the best drought tolerant garden in Waipā. The council proactively plants drought tolerant plants around the district to set an example and show how beautiful the gardens can look without the need for excessive water.

Charles and Katrina Winter performed Edelweiss.

Photo: Richard Lummus

Charles Winter, and Bare Necessities (The Jungle Book) featuring oldest band member Chris Hendy on

CountryLife

SEPTEMBER

Fieldays job:

‘It’s not about you…’

Chris Gardner talks to Peter Nation who announced last week he would be standing down as chief executive of Fieldays.

Outgoing National Agricultural Fieldays chief executive Peter Nation has some sage words for his successor.

“Don’t make it about yourself and keep your ego in check because it’ll be really easy to make it all about you,” he said.

The 63-year-old has resigned for the position he has held for nine years, after 12 years serving on the Fieldays board, and will vacate the position in December.

“It isn’t about you. You’re leading a highly dynamic team of not only staff, but also volunteers and members and stakeholders and suppliers and sponsors. A really big team of over 500 people.”

Nation is not involved in the hunt for a replacement. That’s a job for the National Agricultural Fieldays Society Board led by chair and Waikato farmer Jenni Vernon.

“Early days,” Nation said of the search for his replacement. “The board are going to take their time. It’ll be, I’m not being boastful, a special person because you’re dealing with all these layers. I’ve hosted five or six prime ministers and had relationships with them and senior ministers. Some of them have become acquaintances that I know personally.”

Nation is a well-respected agricultural sector leader.

Before becoming Fieldays chief executive, he spent 11 years as Gallagher’s national sales manager, and 24 years as ANZ rural district manager.

He’s an affable fellow who punctuates every conversation with good humour and laughter.

He navigated the big event focused organisation through its most turbulent time during the Covid-19 pandemic.

“The first thing that came out of the Prime Minister’s mouth in March 2020 was there will be no mass gatherings,” Nation recalled.

“We were 90 days out from Fieldays.. and by 5pm we had no bookings for Mystery Creek. You

don’t look on the library behind you and find the book that says here’s your simulation of running a business on fresh air.”

Nation had to write his own book and apply it to the context of the southern hemisphere’s largest agricultural trade show.

“We’ve stabilised the business,” Nation said of the post pandemic years. “We’ve had some good Fieldays. You look at all that and you think actually Iet’s just draw the line under that and leave on a high.”

So, what other changes did Nation lead?

“I brought an increased focus on risk and compliance,” he said. “That was driven by the tragic mosque attack that shocked the world and New Zealand suddenly woke up.”

Nation’s tenure also included the growth of hubs at the National Agricultural Fieldays, including the forestry, sustainability and health and wellbeing hubs.

“We escalated that really fast,” Nation said. “The health and well-being hub has now become one of those things that really gets the hair on the back of my neck standing up. There’re 25 to 30 thousand people going through there a year, and we know we’re saving lives and working with others to achieve that.”

So, what’s next for Nation? He turns pensive.

“This place gets under your skin,” he said. “I’m not leaving because I don’t enjoy it or I hate it, I just think it’s time.”

Nation said he would probably do some consultancy work.

“There are a few companies out there that I could help with my experience. If I can’t, I’ll go white baiting or fishing.”

“I’m really looking forward to the first day of Fieldays next year, coming in as a punter and maybe spending two days just smelling it. Because I need to get to see it. There’s a whole lot of exhibitors I’ve never been to because I just don’t get time, and I’m really going to enjoy that.”

Peter Nation is leaving Fieldays on a high.

Growing interest in trees

A Waipā nursery is donating thousands of trees to rural schools across the North Island.

Restore Native owner

Adam Thompson says it’s an important social and environmental initiative specifically targeted at rural schools.

His company plants over a million native plants a year, mainly for use in farm plantings to restore land, improve biodiversity, and protect waterways.

A total of 54 rural schools in and around the Waikato expressed an interest in receiving bundles of trees, and around 5000 trees are being distributed across the region.

“We see the kids engaging with the natural world

Thompson sees the benefits of getting children involved in planting projects.

around them by planting a tree at school, it’s a really beautiful thing. It gives them something to connect and relate to in their learning environment,” Thompson, who owns a 180-hectare beef farm on the outskirts of Cambridge, said.

Schools choose where and how their donated trees are

planted. Some have been placed on school grounds, others on farms to repair and restore gullies, steep hillsides and stream banks, or protect wetlands and waterways.

One school in Te Aroha planted their trees to create a barrier to road noise.

In response to the effects of Cyclone Gabrielle last year, Restore Native led a Trees for Tairāwhiti programme where the price of their native trees was reduced to $2 to encourage widespread tree donations for the region. For every tree purchased by the community, Restore Native matched it. In the end, over 10,000 trees were given back to the affected farmers and landowners in the region.

“We see the value that planting native trees can do for the environment and how much it impacts communities,” Thompson says.

The 1080 conundrum

By Clyde Graf, Waipā-King Country Councillor

We have some incredible birds in New Zealand. Anyone who’s driven through the South Island has probably encountered the kea (our alpine clown) and if you’ve been lucky enough to go to Stewart Island, you’ve probably heard a few of the 20,000 kiwi inhabitants.

The male has a shrill and thrilling call that cuts right through you; the female sounds like she’s throwing up. Stewart Island is rugged and wild, and it’s never been aerially poisoned with 1080, until now. Zip - Zero Invasive Predators - poison drops are scheduled to begin in 2025.

I have to ask – why would you drop poisoned food onto an island where kiwi are thriving? Kiwi chicks are vulnerable to stoats but there are no stoats on Stewart Island. The Graf boys (me, and my brother Steve) have filmed a good range of birds there, including kiwi, ruru, kaka and tomtits. My brother has even produced a full-length documentary on the lives of the yellow-eyed, and the Fiordland Crested penguins, the rarest penguins in the world.

Whatever poison you drop will kill birds. Cereal baits containing 1080 or brodifacoum are food, and food is scarce in winter.

The neighbouring Ulva Island brodifacoum drop in 2023 killed rats but it also killed robins, saddleback, rifleman, brown creeper, and all but one weka with chicks.

The recent Wet Jacket (Fiordland) and Matukituki (Wanaka) 1080 drops killed 50 per cent of the radio-tagged kea. Back in 2011, DOC killed 78 per cent of monitored kea in North Okarito. An Official Information Act response from DOC this month states “…we expect the mortality rate of the unmonitored population to be proportionate

to the monitored birds.” Paradoxically, that means DOC is killing a lot of endangered kea when they drop poison into their environment to save them.

DOC says that 1080 isn’t killing kiwi, but you have to test kiwi for 1080 to know that. In 2018, I asked for a list of dead kiwi found in Northland over a 20-year period, their cause of death, and whether they were tested for poison residues.

Of 740 dead kiwi, 53 were tested for anticoagulants such as brodifacoum – 37.7 per cent were positive. Not a single one’s cause of death was listed as “pesticide”. They had only tested three kiwi in the whole of New Zealand for 1080 and none for fluorocitrate (a deadly metabolite of 1080).

This reluctance to test kiwi continues, so it was a surprise to see that two dead kiwi were tested from South Okarito in November 2022, and that the results were positive for 1080. DOC still didn’t say 1080 killed them. We know that invertebrates eat cereal baits, and we know that kiwi eat cereal baits and invertebrates. Either way, when you drop poisoned food from the sky, it will reach a lot of beautiful birds. It’s how the food chain works.

On a recent Breakfast show, DOC asked people not to feed the kea because feeding them novelty food items is killing them. How ironic.

When will this ecocide end, you ask? I guess, in their minds, the $80 million incentive attached to the Stewart Island project justifies the insanity.

DRAINAGE

Adam

Company aim to ‘be a force for good’

By Viv Posselt

Miraka’s story, from its inception in 2010 to its standing today as one of the world’s most sustainable dairy companies – one that achieved B Corp certification earlier this year – was outlined at a talk in Cambridge last week.

Speaking to Cambridge U3A members was Eileen Bowden, Miraka’s Kaihautū (Cultural Advisor) and someone involved from the get-go.

She said Miraka’s founding philosophy aligns with the values espoused by B-Lab, the not-for-profit network that assigns B-Corp status to businesses based on their social and environmental impact.

“The B-Corp values align with our own. We were already striving for excellence in everything we do. It is about balancing profit with purpose… being a force for good.”

She spoke of Miraka’s establishment by a group of Māori trusts and incorporations as being

centred on kaitiakitanga, a Māori world view encompassing the care of the land, people and the environment.

A ‘Te Ara Miraka’ excellence programme was later put in place to encourage farmers to strive for excellence in animal welfare and sustainability, and the company has woven its cultural diversity and the core values of ‘Integrity, Tikanga, Innovation and Excellence’, into the fabric of the entire organisation.

The processing plant in the Mokai Valley, 30km outside Taupō, is the world’s first to use geothermal energy and the company exports milkbased products to over 20 countries.

Bowden said last week’s launch of the country’s first dual-fuel hydrogen milk tanker, and the recent introduction of frozen milk concentrate to its list of milk products, speaks to the company’s drive to innovate. Miraka contributes to the Mokai Valley ecosystem –one in which milk factory by-product goes to a worm

farm, the vermiculture from which goes to a native plant nursery which in turn provides riparian planting along local waterways. Bowden said: “We are at the crossroads of a rapidly changing global environment. Our business

success depends not only on financial acumen and strategic planning, but our ability to embrace cultural diversity and uphold the foundational values that transform organisations into industry leaders and worldleading businesses.”

Milk collecting goes green

Māori-owned dairy manufacturer Miraka has launched New Zealand’s first green hydrogen milk collection tanker. The vehicle, a 700hp Volvo green hydrogen-diesel dual-fuel milk collection tanker, was launched at the company’s dairy plant at Mokai, northwest of Taupō.

Miraka chairman Bruce Scott said the launch marked ‘another significant milestone’ for the company, aligning with the founders’ kaitiakitanga vision and values and Miraka’s commitment to environmental care.

Company chief executive Karl Gradon said the tanker was designed to reduce milk collection CO2 emissions by about 35 per cent per vehicle. He commended Miraka’s transport and hydrogen partners, Central Transport Ltd and Halcyon Power, for their support.

He said a year to the day before the launch, the company entered a partnership with Central Transport and Halcyon, establishing a Rural Hydrogen Hub which it hoped to expand nationwide.

“Launching our first green hydrogen dual-fuel milk collection tanker one year later is a tremendous achievement which we look forward to seeing rolled out across the fleet,” he said.

Tūaropaki Trust, a cornerstone shareholder in Miraka, provides geothermal energy and steam for the Miraka dairy plant through its Mokai Power Station. Under a joint venture partnership with Japan’s Obayashi Corporation, Tūaropaki established Halcyon Power, New Zealand’s first commercialscale green hydrogen plant.

The new tanker.

Miraka’s cultural advisor Eileen Bowden speaking to the Cambridge U3A group last week. Photo: Viv Posselt

Across 1. Number puzzle (6)

5. Hestitant (6) 8. Sister (3)

(6)

(8)

(5)

Last week

19. Fine and dainty (8)

(5)

Across: 1. Stiff, 4. Design, 7. Lei, 8. Cornea, 9. Sickie, 10. Flotilla, 12. Away, 13. Belong, 15. Trendy, 16. Oboe, 17. Besotted, 19. Pastel, 20. Affirm, 22. Egg, 23. Terror, 24. Exult. Down: 1. Shoulder blade, 2. Inn, 3. Flail, 4. Distant, 5. Sacrament, 6. Grin and bear it, 11. Two-seater, 14. Gobbler, 18. Stage, 21. Flu.

MEWOEBSGLYAYZZACOG UELBSMODNEAEDZLRRP SLVEMITONIVKXIKAEX ISITDLHNKEGINPIDSS CCSATCEEESIGSMNIIT PSIKEROARTTROIGOUU APTSKCAMERAIFJOPRD ROIYCFHIPFAMILYNCY TRNGIGSONUENIHSNUS YTGNRREVIRTSDYNWRD PWRICFKPARYEDSPOHS RSSWIMMINGXSRETTEL GAMESEIVOMYRREFOVT OMFSRATRAVELQTHXHU LIBRARYESROODTUOGM

BEACH BOOKS CAMERA CAVES CLIMBING COMPUTER CRICKET CRUISE CYCLING EMAILS ERRANDS FAMILY

FERRY FRIENDS GAMES JOGGING KAYAK LAZE LETTERS LIBRARY MALL MOVIES MUSIC OUTDOORS

PARTY PIZZA POOL RADIO RIDING RIVER SEWING SHOPS SKATEBOARD SLEEP IN SPORT STUDY

SUNSHINE SWIMMING TELEVISION

TENT TOWN

TRAIN

TRAVEL

VIDEO VISITING WALKING WORK

Clap the thunder – now it’s lightning

When Cambridge based TVP Thunder wrapped up the Secondary Senior Premier Grade at the Hamilton Netball Centre for a second year running recently, it spelled the end of an era.

The team – players from Cambridge High and St Peter’s Schoolcame together four years ago. Their latest victory spelled the end of school netball for players who have been coached by Victoria Whitfield.

All are in their final year of high school and are now gearing up to sit final exams before heading off to jobs and university next year.

Team members will

look back on the last four years fondly –aside from their netball success, the Thunder has also had players in national age group teams in lacrosse, hockey and coastal rowing teams, Waikato age group rugby teams, and North Island rowing teams.

Supporters credit for Whitfield for investing time in growing her coaching practices aligned to Sport New Zealand’s Balance is Better evidence-based philosophies.

“This player centric approach and culture has supported the team to go from strength to strength, not only

in their technical and tactical skills, but in their confidence and belief,” Rebecca David told The News.

“Talking to the girls and their parents we know that a number of them wouldn’t be playing netball, for a broad range of reason, if it wasn’t for this. For some it was because they had been told they had to choose between different sports, some had bad experiences with school sport which made them doubt their abilities, some wanted the chance to play with their friends who were at a different school, and others wanted to balance sport

with work and home commitments.”

In the Waikato final in Hamilton, TVP Thunder beat hot favourites the previously unbeaten Hauraki Plains College 31-22.

Usually we hear

thunder after lightning –but for Whitfield it’s the other way round.

She is farewelling her Thunder – but has another project in the making to challenge the best secondary schools in Waikato.

Groups get Tū Manawa boost

By Mary Anne Gill

Six Waipā organisations and a programme delivered in the district by Waikato Rugby Union secured Tū Manawa funding with the help of Sport Waikato.

The $158,367 was allocated to champion access to quality physical activity for children and youth.

Tū Manawa addresses the barriers children and young people face in accessing an opportunity, so it has a particular focus on groups who are less active, including girls and young women, and disabled people.

In Sport Waikato’s six-monthly report to Waipā’s Service Delivery committee this week, regional connectivity coordinator Hadon Westerby said the organisation’s strategic objective was to increase the participation in play, active recreation and sport across the region.

It has a service agreement with Waipā to deliver outcomes locally which is currently being redrafted.

Groups to get funding in Waipā with Sport Waikato’s support were: Ōhaupō Karate Trust - Karate Club and Self Defence programme, St Patrick’s Catholic School Te Awamutu - Meaningful Movement,

Te Awamutu Junior Rugby Sub Union - Girls Rugby Pilot, Dance Therapy NZ - Dance 4 Us Te Awamutu, Te Awamutu Rugby Sports and Recreation Club IncTe Awamutu Wahine Rangatahi Rugby Sevens Development Initiative and Te Awamutu AFC - Community Football Holiday Programme.

Sport Waikato is also working with Te Awamutu College, Cambridge High School and St Peter’s School in Cambridge on a Moving Waikato Youth Survey as part of its focus on helping stakeholders make decisions and enable community conversations.

Record haul from Aims games

By Steph Bell-Jenkins

Cambridge Middle School athletes have returned from the Aims Games with 12 medals in the school’s most successful ever year at the annual competition.

Australasia’s largest junior sporting event was held in Tauranga from September 7-13, attracting 12,500 competitors from 397 schools.

Mila Moore got the team off to a flying start in the year 7 girls’ 3km cross country race at Waipuna Park, beating 145 runners to win by 15 seconds in a time of 11m42s.

She followed up with a second gold medal in the year 7 girls’ cross country mountain biking event.

Jakob Robbers won silver in the year 8 boys’ individual kayaking event and teamed up with two students from other schools to take gold in the team kayaking relay.

Also winning gold for Cambridge Middle School was rock climber Josie Taylor, who competed in top rope, boulder and speed climbing.

The year 8 student has been climbing about four years and trains four times a week in Hamilton.

“This is my first medal in climbing. It inspires me to keep training and working my way up.”

Piper Ward was another standout for the school, clinching three individual gymnastics medals – silver in vault and bronze in rhythmic ribbon and aerobics. Her teammate Pippa Moore added to the tally with silver in tumbling.

Emily Cameron won silver in the year 8 girls’ cross country mountain biking event.

The boys’ futsal team brought home silver after losing a hard-fought final against Saint Kentigern Boys’ School. The boys’ 7 aside hockey team finished third in their pool of 21, defeating Tauranga Intermediate School 4-2 in their bronze medal match.

Cambridge Middle School sports coordinator Anita Hawkins said winning an Aims medal was a “special achievement”.

Winners to the end - back row from left, coach Victoria Whitfield, Maia Calcinai, Ruby David, Lauren Wood, Tegan O’Dwyer, Kendall Muir, Peyton Barnard, Molly Macdiarmid. Front, Annelies Banks, Zara Barnard, Addy Abbott.

- Built in 2019 by award winning Davies Homes, a beautifully presented 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom home, designed with attention to detail.

- Spacious living areas perfect for family living, entertainment and enjoyment.

- Light kitchen enjoying butler’s pantry & top-drawer chattels.

- Comforts & features include: smart window dressings; tiled family bathroom shower; attic storage & carpeted garage.

and the separate lounge both with deck access.

- Spacious kitchen featuring a large island with sink, double oven, gas cooktop and ample cabinet space.

- Generous master suite is a true retreat, offering walk-in wardrobe, ensuite and outdoor access to the spa.

Style, Flair, Fun & Elevated Privacy

- Smartly designed 301m² (more or less) expansive home offering a superb entertainers’ kitchen with scullery; spacious open plan living with maximised flow to the outdoors.

- Four generous bedrooms, two stylish bathrooms plus separate toilet; theatre room or formal lounge; plus office.

- Features-industrial style glass entry door; French oak flooring; barn style slider doors; high stud, pitched ceiling; statement pendant lighting; super lush and pristine bathroom.

- Modern kitchen with walk-in pantry, seamlessly integrated with superb open plan layout, with maximum flow to the sunny, alfresco outdoor living space.

- Offering four good-sized bedrooms including master suite with walk-in robe and ensuite bathroom and a spacious formal lounge.

- Built a ‘forever’ home, high quality appliances, insulated indoor walls, double shower heads and heated mirrors.

- Set on a section with a fenced backyard–perfect for children & pets.

- This home features new double-glazed windows, central ducted heating, and full insulation for year-round comfort.

- Three bedrooms, a large, open plan living area, a spacious bathroom with a separate toilet.

- Freshly painted, fully lined and carpeted double internal garage.

- Fully fenced, easy-care garden features a good-sized lawn for play or relaxation, plus a spacious patio with a new roof for all-weather use, maximizing privacy and outdoor enjoyment.

- A well-proportioned and equipped kitchen; north-facing open plan living and dining; a large separate lounge.

- Four bedrooms plus an office & three generous bathrooms spread over two levels (including master bedroom with extra-large walk-in robe and ensuite); copious storage throughout; separate laundry and internal access double garage.

- Superbly serviced by the combination of a heat pump and gas fireplace – stay cosy year-round.

Cambridge 345

Cambridge 345 Maungakawa Road

The jewel in nature's crown!

Road 5 3 3 2

The jewel in nature's crown!

Designed by Neil Keiser, this superb family residence, with striking architecture is nestled in nature, with that sought after connection to town, perfect for busy families that want to feel a world away. Native bush and birdsong, high up above the tree-tops, this unique home, created and adapted to accommodate both couples and large families, opens up to peace and tranquility, and enjoys spectacular 270 degree views reaching as far as the eye can see to the mountains of Kakapuka, Pirongia, Kariori and the Hakaramatas, the sunsets and tui calls, becoming the backdrop to the end of day wind down, with family and friends. Carved into 10ha (more or less) of your own native bush (part of the protected overlay that this spellbinding area deserves), this Maungakawa Masterpiece will sure to impress with the use of natural materials incorporated into the design and build of this one of a kind design. bayleys.co.nz/2350826

Designed by Neil Keiser, this superb family residence, with striking architecture is nestled in nature, with that sought after connection to town, perfect for busy families that want to feel a world away. Native bush and birdsong, high up above the tree-tops, this unique home, created and adapted to accommodate both couples and large families, opens up to peace and tranquility, and enjoys spectacular 270 degree views reaching as far as the eye can see to the mountains of Kakapuka, Pirongia, Kariori and the Hakaramatas, the sunsets and tui calls, becoming the backdrop to the end of day wind down, with family and friends. Carved into 10ha (more or less) of your own native bush (part of the protected overlay that this spellbinding area deserves), this Maungakawa Masterpiece will sure to impress with the use of natural materials incorporated into the design and build of this one of a kind design. bayleys.co.nz/2350826

5 3 3 2

(unless sold prior)

10am, Wed 9 Oct 2024

Tender (unless sold prior) Closing 10am, Wed 9 Oct 2024

021 646 447

Central, modernised 60's splendor on 1/4 acre

Central, modernised 60's splendor on 1/4 acre

This modernized 1960s brick home in central Cambridge East offers a blend of vintage charm and contemporary updates. Spanning 178sqm (more or less) on a large 1,133sqm (more or less) section, it features double garaging, a carport, and a spacious rear lawn. Families will enjoy its proximity to Cambridge East Primary, the High School, local cafes, and Lake Te Koutu. The north-facing layout allows sunlight to flood the living areas and two of the three bedrooms. Highlights include a modern kitchen, two new bathrooms with underfloor heating, partial doble glazing, a heat pump, HRV system, and an open fireplace. bayleys.co.nz/2350822

This modernized 1960s brick home in central Cambridge East offers a blend of vintage charm and contemporary updates. Spanning 178sqm (more or less) on a large 1,133sqm (more or less) section, it features double garaging, a carport, and a spacious rear lawn. Families will enjoy its proximity to Cambridge East Primary, the High School, local cafes, and Lake Te Koutu. The north-facing layout allows sunlight to flood the living areas and two of the three bedrooms. Highlights include a modern kitchen, two new bathrooms with underfloor heating, partial doble glazing, a heat pump, HRV system, and an open fireplace. bayleys.co.nz/2350822

Sale by Deadline Private Treaty 10am, Tue 15 Oct 2024

12-12.30pm Sun 22 Sep & Sun 29 Sep or by appointment

sqm 3 2 2 For Sale by Deadline Private Treaty 10am, Tue 15 Oct 2024 View 12-12.30pm Sun 22 Sep & Sun 29 Sep or by appointment

Merrington 021 646 447

Amanda Merrington 021 646 447 amanda.merrington@bayleys.co.nz

Corey Hutchison 021 037 3685

tier1fencing@outlook.co.nz tier1fencing.co.nz

CAMBRIDGE OPEN HOMES

Bihoro bound

Women’s day

Seven people have been selected as part of a sevenstrong Waipā delegation to visit Cambridge’s sister city Bihoro in Japan this month.

Cambridge Community Board sought applications from people in the community to join the delegation.

More than 15 applications were received for the selffunded trip.

Board chair Jo DaviesColley and Waipā mayor Susan O’Regan selected Alisha Robinson, Robyn Maxwell and Greg Thornton as the successful applicants. They will represent the district alongside deputy mayor Liz Stolwyk, Cambridge ward councillor Philip Coles, and Cambridge Community Board members Alana Mackay and Andrew Myers.

Homestay accommodation will be provided in Bihoro as part of the sister city relationship, but travel and other expenses will be funded by candidates, with any council costs limited to an official gift for the delegation.

The selected gift is a custom work by local artist Saoirse Herewini. It incorporates the sister city themes of friendship, education and agriculture and have a distinct Cambridge flavour, with local stories and symbolism.

Alisha and Robyn both have a deeply personal connection to the trip. Robyn is the widow of Murray Maxwell, who worked for Waipā District Council for many years and was instrumental in establishing the sister city relationship with Bihoro in 1997. Robyn has been involved over the decades, maintaining friendships and hosting guests from Bihoro on the family property.

Alisha is Robyn and Murray’s daughter and is passionate about continuing the relationship with Bihoro. A town planner with Beca, Alisha is interested in how the effects of agricultural practices on the environment are managed in Bihoro, compared to New Zealand.

Greg Thornton is the principal of Cambridge High School and is interested in exploring how the relationship can be extended further, including online education opportunities and student exchanges.

Bihoro is an agricultural town of around 20,000 people on the northern end of Japan’s Hokkaido Island. The sister city relationship agreement between Waipā District Council and Bihoro was signed in 1997.

RESOURCE CONSENT APPLICATIONS

Waipa District Council and the Waikato Regional Council have received resource consent applications as below. As both Councils have determined that public notification is required for their respective applications, this is a combined notice advising of the public notification.

APPLICANT’S NAME: R S Sand Limited

LOCATION: 77 Newcombe Road, R D 4, Cambridge

NATURE OF APPLICATIONS:

Waipa District Council (WDC) – Reference LU/0077/23

To establish and operate a mineral extraction activity (sand quarry). The quarry is proposed to extract up to 400,000 tonnes (T) of sand per year (depending on demand) for approximately 25 years. The quarry is made up of a 23-hectare pit area towards the western boundary and a 4-hectare plant area (for processing and stockpiling) to the east of the pit.

The southwestern portion of the plant area will contain an office and breakroom building, maintenance workshop, car parking, weighbridge, and wheel wash facility. Access from Newcombe Road to the quarry will be provided via a new vehicle crossing approximately 150m to the west of the site’s existing access and 660m from the Newcombe Road – Tirau Road intersection.

Waikato Regional Council (WRC) – Reference APP145695

APP145695 Activity Description

AUTH145695.01.01

AUTH145695.02.01

AUTH145695.03.01

AUTH145695.04.01

AUTH145695.05.01

Ground water take associated with the establishment and operation of a quarry

Discharge of treated water from the erosion and sediment control Structures to Karapiro Stream associated with the establishment and operation of a quarry

Diversion and discharge of water associated with the establishment and operation of a quarry

Soil disturbance, roading and tracking, and vegetation clearance activities associated with the establishment and operation of a quarry

Discharge of overburden associated with the establishment and operation of a quarry

Resource consents are sought to authorise various activities associated with the construction and operation of a sand quarry.

Both applications include an assessment of environmental effects and several technical reports. The Waip-a District Council (WDC) application can be viewed electronically at our Te Awamutu Office, 101 Bank Street, Te Awamutu or online via www.waipadc.govt.nz/sandquarry-consent.

Please contact Waip-a District Council’s enquiries team on 0800 924 723 if you have any questions about this application.

The Waikato Regional Council (WRC) application can be viewed electronically via https://www.waikatoregion.govt.nz/APP145695 or at the Hamilton Office, 160 Ward Street, Hamilton. Please contact the WRC enquiries team on 0800 800 801, if you have any questions about this application.

Any person may make a submission on the above applications, but a person who is a trade competitor of the applicant may do so only if that person is directly affected by an effect of the activity to which the application relates that

a. Adversely affects the environment; and b. Does not relate to trade competition or the effects of trade competition. Please note: A separate submission will need to be submitted to each respective Council if you wish to provide a submission on both applications.

You may make a submission on the WDC application by sending a written submission to Waip-a District Council, Private Bag 2402, Te Awamutu, 3800 or electronically to submissions@waipadc.govt.nz. The submission must be on Form 13. Copies of this form are available on the WDC website: www.waipadc.govt.nz/sandquarry-consent.

You may make a submission on the WRC application by sending a written submission to Waikato Regional Council, Private Bag 3038, Waikato Mail Centre, Hamilton 3240 or electronically to RCsubmissions@waikatoregion.govt.nz. The submission must be on Form 13. Copies of this form are available on the WRC website: http://www.waikatoregion.govt.nz/other-consentforms/.

Submissions close on Friday 18 October 2024.

You must also serve a submission on R S Sand Limited whose address for service is C/- Kinetic Environmental Consulting Limited, PO Box 9413, Hamilton 3240, or by email to Christian@kineticenv.co.nz, as soon as reasonably practicable after serving your submission on Waip-a District Council and/or Waikato Regional Council.

Steph O’Sullivan

Chief Executive

For and on behalf of the Waipa District Council

CDA McLay

Chief Executive

On behalf of Waikato Regional Council

Waikato soprano Elaine Wogan wowed members of the Cambridge Women’s Club at its recent annual meeting. Singing in German, French, Italian and Spanish, Wogan’s talent was abundantly on display, said Dianne Gwynne who was reelected to the committee with Renata Stent, president Elizabeth O’Driscoll, Kaye Pollock, Raewyn Handcock and Barbara Fisher. “We have an amazing list of guest speakers and entertainment ahead,” said Gwynne. The club meets monthly in Darcy’s Restaurant at Hidden Lake Hotel. Pictured, from left: Dianne Gwynne, Renata Stent, Elaine Wogan, president Elizabeth O’Driscoll and Kaye Pollock.

Artist Saoirse Herewini with her artwork titled ‘Kotahitanga’ symbolising the concept of togetherness, identifying as one and sharing the earth. Photo: Supplied.

Notice of AGM

The Annual General Meeting of the Cambridge Town Hall Community Trust will be held as follows:

Date: Tues, 8 Oct, 2024

Time: 7pm

Place: Edwardian Room, Cambridge Town Hall –entrance off Lake Street. All welcome.

THE ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING Of the Cambridge Resthaven Trust Board will be held at The Village Centre, 4 Vogel Street On Monday 30th September 2024 at 5.00pm

WAIPA DISTRICT COUNCIL MEETING NOTICES

on Friday, 20th September at 1:00 pm followed by private cremation. The service will be live streamed please email office@teawamutufunerals. co.nz for the link. All communications please to the Anso family, P O Box 137, Te Awamutu 3840. Te Awamutu Funeral Services, FDANZ.

Te Awamutu Funeral Services, FDANZ

FINUCANE,

022 648 2417 www.bushydowns.co.nz

ACCOUNTANCY ROLE

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.

About us

We are more than just about numbers. Our mission statement is ‘Making a positive difference in your life’ which relates to both staff and clients. We are a small growing innovative accounting firm of 12 providing a fun, friendly, flexible working environment. Check out our awesome website for the history of the firm and testimonials.

Qualifications & experience

• Minimum of 2 years experience in a New Zealand Chartered Accountant’s office.

Benefits

• Flexible working environment

• Offices in Hamilton and Ōtorohanga

• 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 team@osbornesca.co.nz

Ellen Shirley – Passed away peacefully at Cambridge Oakdale on Monday, 16th September 2024. Aged 98 years. Dearly loved wife of the late Eric. Treasured and loved mother to Christine & Steve, and James & Robyn. Loved Nana to Cameron, Jessica, Ashlee and Emma-Lee and Oma to 4 great-grandchildren. Special thanks to the staff of Cambridge Oakdale for the love and care shown to Shirley over the past 5 years. A memorial service will be held at Forrest Lawn Chapel, Guyton Street, Gonville, Wanganui, on Friday, 20th September 2024, at 1:00 p.m. All communications to the Finucane Family, c/ 3 Hallys Lane, Cambridge 3434.

WILLIAMS, Colin (Curly, Pappy) – A talented maker and special character is now at rest. Passed away at Waikato Hospital on Tuesday, 10th September 2024, aged 95 years with his family by his side. Dearly loved husband of Shirley for the past eight years and beloved husband of the late Betty. Much loved father and father-in-law of Sandra & Ingo, Neville & Louise, Rex and Lyn. A fun and mischievous Pappy to all his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who always had a glint in his eye. Engineer, motorcyclist, musician, farmer, ham radio operator, sailor, pilot, adventurer, forever young. ‘ZL1BJL over and out’ The service for Colin has been held. All communications to the Williams Family, c/3 Hallys Lane, Cambridge 3434.

Jim Goddin Funeral Director

Ian Calvert Funeral Director