Cambridge News | October 31, 2024

Not on my doorstep…

By Mary Anne Gill

Meet Glenys Miller. The 72-yearold feisty Cambridge farmer, mother of two, grandmother of five and great grandmother to three and three quarters is angry.

So mad she told the person to “get lost” who knocked on her door two to three years ago to talk about plans for a quarry next door.

Except those were not the actual words the determined pocket rocket said and there was nothing polite about the message either, she recalls.

If it is possible she is even angrier today than she was then

because she has been reading up on the application by RS Sand Ltd to establish and operate a mineral extraction activity – a sand quarry – less than 200m from her front doorstep.

The quarry would extract up to 400,000 tonnes of sand a year, depending on demand, for approximately 25 years.

Glenys knows about change. A decade ago, she and her husband Bruce – who died in July last year - had to sell part of their 52ha farm to the government for the Waikato Expressway.

Now it is 47ha with the motorway running down the

middle of it. They had to move their house north, further up the farm, and leave the gardens that Glenys had spent decades developing.

The Hinuera bricks which had been on the house are stacked in her driveway on the fenceline border between her place and the site of the quarry. She had planned to sell them but never got around to it so now they’re gathering weeds.

The house has burnt orange bricks now and a spacious decklooking out onto her new garden and the pine trees further back where the quarry operation will

be. It is here where the extended Miller family gathered on Sunday to discuss their plans to oppose the quarry. Their biggest concern is the silica dust the quarry will produce and the impact on the family’s

Continued on page 3

Senior platform set for revival

Discussions on mapping a way forward for Waipā’s seniors will dominate a forum organised by Cambridge Grey Power and Waipā district councillors.

Cr Roger Gordon said Grey Power and councillors want to find the best way for seniors to express their views to council.

A senior council established several years ago, with three or four meetings a year held alternately in Cambridge and Te Awamutu, was designed to facilitate communication between seniors and elected council officials, he said.

However, feedback from those indicated

Roger Gordon

some seniors believe their voice has been ignored and council’s focus is on meeting the needs of younger residents.

Gordon also said it was thought that because of differences between Cambridge and Te Awamutu, any future forum for seniors might be more effective if it is localised to each town.

“There is a real wish for some kind of forum to be reestablished,” he said. It could include considerations around the general disability sector.

“The forum will also consider the Waipā District Council’s ‘Age Friendly Policy’ and ‘Age Friendly Implementation Plan’ documents written in 2016. These have informed interaction between council and our seniors.”

It will include presentations from Cambridge Grey Power past president Val Massey and Te Awamutu Grey Power president, Michael Cullen.

Marc van den Heuvel Partner

health. Tylah Willcox – Glenys’ granddaughter who lives in South Waikato - is pregnant and might think twice about visiting, says Glenys.

Glenys Miller, left front, sits on the pile of Hinuera bricks that used to be on her house and are now on the boundary line between her property and the proposed quarry. Pictured, from left, back row Kaden Emerson, Tylah Willcox, Jason, Kathleen, 11, Carl, Kierly, 11, and Ella Miller, 13, Madisyn Willcox, 16, Claire de Geest and Kevin van Tilburg. In front, Glenys, Haley Miller, Steven Willcox.

Photo: Mary Anne Gill.

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Classic Porsche well ‘doctored’

By Paul Charman

A Wellington surgeon and his sister said the King Country-Waipa legs of the Targa Rally felt like a homecoming at the weekend.

The News caught up with Dynes McConnell and his sister and co-driver Melody McConnell, as their classic car was being examined by scrutineers at Ōtorohanga Rugby Club grounds.

On the beat with

Senior Constable DEB HANN

Talking about driving CONTACTS

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I hope everyone had a good long weekend. It was great to see the road toll at zero with everyone making it home from their holidays safely.

In the seven days prior to writing, in the Western Waikato Policing district, we have had nine incidents of people driving with excess breath/blood alcohol levels. The legal breath alcohol limit is 250mcg/alcohol per litre of breath. Five of the drivers dealt with returned positive breath alcohol readings in excess of 650 mcg/litre of breath and two were over 1100 mcg/litre of breath.

Drinking alcohol greatly reduces a person’s ability to make choices – especially where decision-making calls for complex judgements. It also slows a person’s reactions, dulling their judgement and vision. The risk of a crash increases as the driver’s alcohol level increases.

Someone under the influence of alcohol is unable to judge their own fitness to drive as alcohol creates a false sense of confidence. If you see someone who you believe to be under the influence of alcohol, reaching for the car keys or driving, phone 111 immediately.

Give as much detail as possible around their identity, the vehicle and intended travel path. Not only are they a risk to themselves and other motorists through their own driving, but also their reaction times when responding to bad driving from others, is extended.

The community are our eyes and ears when it comes to reporting offending in progress.

Thanks to members of the public in Cambridge last Friday we dealt with two family harm incidents on Queen Street involving the same couple who were passing through town - the second incident being an escalation of the first.

I am grateful for the calls from members of the public around this. As a result, a Police Safety Order was issued to ensure separation and prevent a reoccurrence. Police involvement also means that agency support and follow-up can occur in their hometown to assist in reducing harm.

Elsewhere in the last seven days Cambridge Police dealt with jobs that included five family harm incidents, wilful damage, counterfeit money, 13 thefts, two thefts from car incidents, 10 attempts to steal cars and actual car thefts, six burglaries, four mental health incidents, five traffic crashes, threatening behaviour and an aggravated robbery.

Te Awamutu Police dealt with jobs including five assaults, seven mental health incidents, four traffic crashes, four burglaries, four threatening speech incidents, 15 family harm incidents, two wilful damage cases, arson, five traffic matters, a breach of court bail, disorderly behaviour and attempted car theft.

Melody, who lives in Hawke’s Bay, has driven alongside her brother since the two were teenagers growing up on a dairy farm at Tuhikaramea, near Pirongia.

The two race a Porsche 930, a turbocharged variant of the 911 sports car manufactured from 1975 and 1989.

“At the time of its introduction, this was the fastest production car available in Germany, with a turbo so vicious that when it cut in it was notorious for spinning cars out on racing tracks of the day,” Dynes said.

“The 930 was designed to clean up at Monte Carlo and it did just that. But it was involved in so many crashes that it got the nickname ‘widow maker’.”

He added that the vehicle they were racing had been owned by another doctor, John Elliot, the son of eye surgeon Sir Randall Elliot.

Such had been the sportscar’s involvement with medical people over the years that it has been give the number plate MD 930 (short for medical doctor).

“It’s incredible fun racing this thing. If classic racing’s in your blood a day out contesting the Targa Rally, driving a car like this on these beautiful country roads is about as good as it gets,” Dynes said.

Top honours in the rally went to Marcus van Klink and his co-driver Matt Richards –who also won the 2023 rally.

Meanwhile the rain gods stayed away for the 175 minis and their owners who gathered at Lake Karāpiro from Invercargill to Northland and even one from Melbourne, Australia for the NZ Mini Nationals. Quite a few chose the camping out option with a mixture of swanky motorhomes to pup tents. Some even had special tents for their minis.

Dynes McConnell and his sister and co-driver Melody McConnell beside their classic Porsche 930.

Awards open

Entries for Waipā’s business awards, which recognise accomplishments, contributions and diversity in the business community, open tomorrow. (Friday).

Population up

Waipā’s population is 62,700, Census figures released by Statistics NZ last week show. It was 55,000 in 2018. Nearly a third are in the 40-64 age bracket and the median age is 40.6. A total of 12,400 people (19.2 per cent) are 65 years and older.

Roger that

Roger Gordon was again Waipā District Council’s lowest paid councillor receiving $41,280 for his efforts in the financial year ended June 30. Fellow Cambridge ward representative Mike Pettit earned $43,246 to be second lowest. Highest paid councillor was Claire St Pierre with $53,075 while deputy mayor Liz Stolwyk got $66,835 and mayor Susan O’Regan $145,391.

Underpass in

Camex Civil installed 16 precast concrete underpass units – each weighing 32 tonnes – at the under-construction roundabout outside Te Awa Lifecare last week. Two cranes were needed, one to lift the units onto a truck on the Velodrome side of Cambridge Rd and a second to lift them into place on the town side.

Top engagement

Waikato District Council was overwhelmed by the nearly 2000 responses to its Long Term Plan prompted by the appeal to residents to tell councillors where savings could be made and which of its 33 community halls should remain ratepayer funded. The council was to consider the responses yesterday, after The News went to press.

Chamber reveals consultants’ bill

By Mary Anne Gill

Waipā spent more than $14 million on consultants in the financial year ended June 30 – up from $13.7 million the previous year.

The council provided the figure to Cambridge Chamber chief executive Kelly Bouzaid – treating it as a Local Government Official Information Act request - but drilling down even further would have cost the chamber $6000.

“I’ve got no issue with the role of consultants,” she told members who attended an address by new Waipā chief executive Steph O’Sullivan last week in the Town Hall.

The chamber asked for descriptions of projects’ scope, objectives and key deliverables to understand the ‘value impact’ consultants played on council projects.

“We asked to understand performance and evaluation and we were, I’ll be honest, very interested around the consultant costs for Cambridge Connections which we all know was a train wreck.”

The chamber also wanted to know the rationale behind the use of consultants to which the council responded it could not be made available without substantial collation and research and estimated the cost at

$6000 because it would “unreasonably interfere with the operations of council.”

Bouzaid said she hoped O’Sullivan would create a culture offering the chamber the opportunity to have good, robust conversations, “with a sprinkle of tension”.

“That is a great example of that relationship transparency and it’s an enquiry which is entirely justified,” said O’Sullivan.

“Consultants do form an important part of our business, and I can probably guarantee there will be some consultants who are working for us in the room tonight.”

They could be consulting on swimming pool facilities,

parks, transport or large infrastructure projects.

“They are large complex projects and we could either have those people on staff which will hit your rating base every year and increase my opex (operating expenditure) costs or they could be specialist consultants that are working on large and significant projects that are multi year and sophisticated projects where you require specialist skills that I cannot keep in our organisation the whole time.”

The council would continue to use consultants, but councillors had asked her to look at Waipā’s business.

She will do a review soon of the organisation to look for efficiency and effectiveness gains.

“In my experience, we run a pretty lean shop most of the time and we will continue to run that lean shop while we deliver outcomes to the community,” she said because the council was a public service and needed to be transparent.

O’Sullivan told The News she would discuss Bouzaid’s questions with the council team and respond as best she could because the business community was wanting to understand the use of consultants by Waipā District Council.

Not on my doorstep…

Son Carl Miller, who knows every inch of the farm and will inherit it one day along with his sister Haley, worries about the Karāpiro Stream which runs alongside their and the new quarry operation’s boundaries. It is full of eels, kākahi freshwater mussels, carp and trout.

Will there be enough spring water left for the farm after the quarry has taken what it needs? he asks.

“This project would consume an astronomical amount of water daily, threatening the volume and quality of my natural spring that supplies water to my livestock and my two households,” says Glenys in her

submission on the quarry.

The noise is another thing. When the quarry operators took samples for the application, the noise was deafening, she says.

And there are the trucks that will trundle up and down Newcombe Road past her driveway and then through the town.

“I don’t think people know what that’s going to do to Cambridge and the silica dust will blow that way too and none of the money from the quarry is going to go into the town.”

Her husband’s ashes and those of his parents Peter and Cassie Miller were scattered on the farm.

Tenants Claire de Geest and Kevin van Tilburg, who live in the old farmstead, will be even closer to the quarry and fear their idyllic rural view towards Whitehall, Te Miro and Pukemako (Sanitorium) Hill will be ruined by industrial equipment.

This is a group of people not used to taking on authority and who are confused about the role of Waipā District Council and Waikato Regional Council who will run a joint hearing to decide whether the quarry can proceed.

Even the thought of putting in a submission, knowing what to say and how to say it when there will

be noise, soil, water and air experts giving evidence, has them worried but not daunted.

Glenys put in a 122-word submission finishing with “Thank you for your consideration,” which she insists the applicant never showed her.

Carl is going to put one in too and he says he will ask to be heard at the hearing. “I’ll tell them,” he says.

Glenys has put her faith in the independent commissioners who will hear the application on behalf of the two councils.

• See Views on a quarry – page 20

• More: cambridgenews.nz

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Glenys Miller in the garden she reestablished at her Newcombe Rd property. Behind her, where the pine trees are, is the planned quarry site.

Photo: Mary Anne Gill.

New CEO on first two months

Members had so much interest in hearing what Waipā CEO Steph O’Sullivan had to say, Cambridge

where senior writer Mary Anne Gill grabbed a one on one with the council boss.

It hasn’t taken Steph O’Sullivan long to get her feet under the first floor desk at Waipā District Council.

Except the desk could be anywhere because she has spent so little time at council headquarters in Te Awamutu since she started last month.

The new chief executive is eight weeks into the job – part way through her 30, 60, 90 day plan - and visiting as much of the 1447 sq kms of the district and meeting as many of the 62,700 residents as she can.

It was the turn of the Cambridge Chamber of Commerce last week in the Town Hall – hastily booked when the council’s Cambridge service centre was too small to cope with the 100 plus members who had RSVPed.

She started her address with a bit of history – telling the chamber she grew up in Tokoroa but had an ongoing relationship with Cambridge where she used to coming for shopping trips.

She felt very privileged to now be in the public service and in Waipā which is one of the top five growth districts in New Zealand.

“Our business is not like your businesses,” she said.

It had 1445 unique legislative obligations and was annually assessedmaking its ability to be entrepreneurial, move swiftly and adapt very difficult.

“We are a creature of statute. We’re a creature created by central Government and you’ve just seen with Wellington City Council, we’re under the purview of ministers who don’t hesitate to move.

“So that’s what makes our business

different.”

O’Sullivan said when she started the job in Waipā, councillors told her she had to make sure the district was fit for the future, hence the extended road show.

“We’re working with the community, not doing things to the community… placing council in the best position to deliver for you, our community.

“And that’s not an easy journey, so can you give me a few months?”

In introducing O’Sullivan, chamber chief executive Kelly Bouzaid talked about prudent financial and risk management and transformational leadership.

“I’ll be going about that work particularly in the first year as I get my feet under the table and understand where we’re at,” said O’Sullivan.

She told The News the council had lost the trust of the Cambridge community earlier this year with what has now been termed the Blue Blob debacle but was actually Cambridge Connections.

“It didn’t go according to plan,” she said of the project which named a preferred site for a third Waikato River bridge through an established part of the town.

“We’re up for that conversation again. I totally accept that council didn’t live up to the mark on that and didn’t meet community expectations and it’s eroded trust and confidence in us. Mea culpa, didn’t get that right, go back to the drawing board on that one,” she had earlier told the meeting.

O’Sullivan has already made her

presence felt around the council table telling councillors at a recent Long Term Plan workshop the 17 per cent rate increase should not have come as a surprise to them.

“The staff have been signalling them, in particular at the executive level. That trade off between moving to an enhanced annual plan last year did not negate or minimise or reduce the difficulties we’re going to face this year,” she told The News.

Staff had also followed councillors’ instruction not to cut services, she said at the workshop when there was a suggestion the council might have to do that.

As a growth district, Waipā was experiencing economic pains over and above what other districts were.

“But what couldn’t have been anticipated was what happened in the economy,” she said.

“I don’t think you can expect senior execs and local government to do something that nationally recognised economists can’t do.”

Making it worse for Waipā was when developments were put on hold or delayed, so too were contributions to the council which are paid at their completion.

O’Sullivan said she was enjoying her job and meeting residents.

“There’s a lot of people that are challenged and affordability is an issue, and we know a lot of people are really doing it hard at the moment, but I think there’s great opportunity here.”

Chamber booked a bigger venue,

Steph O’Sullivan

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Board wants fluoride stalled

By Chris Gardner

A community board on one side of Waipā wants plans to put fluoride on the other side on hold.

Waipā District Council has been asked to push back against the Director General of Health’s directive to introduce fluoride to Cambridge water after a US Federal Court ruled fluoridation was an unreasonable risk.

Te Awamutu and Kihikihi Community Board voted 3-1 for deputy chair Kane Titchener’s motion requesting the council seek an interim order, or some other appropriate legal remedy, to put fluoridation on hold until the end of a new court case involving Health New Zealand.

The board also requested the council liaise and work with one or more of the 13 other directed councils to push back against the directive and acknowledge to the community that the US Federal Court had ruled that adding fluoride to the water supply at 0.7 to 1ppm is an unreasonable risk relating to neurotoxicity.

Titchener’s motion was seconded by board member Sally Whitaker and supported by chair Ange Holt. Cr Lou Brown voted

against the motion.

“The council’s going to be putting in $140,000 per annum on this, so I think it’s some serious money for absolutely no benefit for a major risk,” Titchener – an anti fluoride advocate - said.

“There are definitely councils around the country wanting to push back, so I’m requesting the council reach out to those other councils.

“If we are going to put a neuro toxin into the water supply, we really need to be telling the community that, and that is the basis of the US court case.”

Board member John Wood said he didn’t understand the implications.

“My understanding is if it’s in the water and 0.8 or below it’s safe. I’m not a scientist, so I struggle with some of it. I don’t know where I stand

on it.”

“The judge ruled it’s an unreasonable risk looking at all the information,” Titchener said.

At 0.7, Titchener said, studies showed a lowering of IQ and increase in ADHD.

“Blind Freddy can now see that we have a serious problem. I’m really requesting help from the council to do something about it.”

Whitaker said everybody needed to have an open mind and suspend judgement.

“The most up to date evidence clearly outlines that fluoridation causes significant harm. The council has obligations under the health act to protect the people. It is vital, with all this conclusive evidence, that council need to consider these duties under the act.”

Kane Titchener

“Amongst people I have spoken to, there is a lot of support for us not to have fluoridated water, they would prefer to make that choice themselves.”

Holt said Scotland had achieved a 33 per cent decrease in cavities from just teaching kids how to brush their teeth.

“I have been inundated with emails from the community requesting we support Kane’s motions. I still haven’t finished responding to them all, I can’t tell you how many. I keep getting them. There are definitely people from our community making an effort to write well written and well considered emails requesting that the fluoride is kept out of our water and that it’s a personal choice and not a mandated one.”

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Briefs…

Surplus down

Waipa council made an operating surplus of $35.5 million –down on its $48.2 million budget – in the financial year ended June 30. Development and reserve contributions were down $21.5 million. Subsidies were $9.9 million higher because of additional fundings for the Cambridge and Kihikihi Pathway projects from New Zealand Transport Agency. The council completed just under $130 million of work across 160 projects and maintained its AA- Fitch credit rating.

Sally Whitaker

Ange Holt

The St Andrew’s Church fair attracted the crowds again on Labour Day Monday despite the squally showers with just over 140 stallholders represented. Entertainment in the church was provided by the Cambridge Brass Band and the Cambridge Big Little Jazz Band, pictured, because as singer Heather Connolly admitted “sometimes we’re big, like today, and sometimes we’re little.” The band, which will play at the Armistice Day service in the Town Hall, played a mixture of fast and slow – from Spanish Eyes to That Old Devil Called Love with a Don’t it Make Your Brown Eyes Blue and Singing in the Rain thrown in for good measure.

Photo: Mary Anne Gill.

NEWCOMBE ROAD QUARRY - CAMBRIDGE

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ARE YOU AWARE OF THIS PROPOSED QUARRY?

Submissions close 4th November 2024

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Key Information/Applicant Information:

• 400 trucks more per day = 4,000 passenger cars/day, 6 days a week from 7am

• 400,000 tons of sand per year for 25+ years

• Located near Cambridge Golf Course

• Access denied for the northbound onramp

• Carcinogenic Cat 1 product

• Cambridge already has pre-SH1 traffic volumes

• Other current and future sites exist with direct State Highway access

• Application for 1.2 million litres per day of water usage (360 million litres/year)

• Within a Cultural Landscape Zone & permanent riverbank removal

Removal & loss of High Class Soils (LUC 2)

• Extraction within 10-15m of the Karapiro Stream in a river catchment zone

• No royalties for ratepayers/ councils

• Significantly larger than any other quarry in Cambridge (13 other quarries in Cambridge)

• Fulton Hogan (private South Island company) is the company and Whitehall Fruitpackers (Gardiner family) own the land

• Some trucks will also travel up/down Shakespeare Street Leamington and/or pass the Cambridge Velodrome.

• Land currently zoned rural - discretional activity for extraction.

• Most current quarries not running at capacity

Letters…

Rates pain

Rates are not the only thing that is causing pain to our community, and it may be possible to alleviate two at the same time.

I am referring as many others have to the ‘speed bumps’ appearing with monotonous regularity on our streets at great expense. Are these even legal, slowing traffic down to 25kph in areas it is legally entitled to travel at 40 or even 50kph?

Even Hamilton Road has not escaped them, what a welcome to our town! I’m just waiting for them to appear all the way down Victoria Road then we really will be known as “Bunny-town” or “Hop-it-on”.

Has anyone carried out a cost-benefit analysis or has our council just got on the bandwagon of the latest bureaucratic fad? We all know the ‘cheap’ $270k improvements to the Shakespeare Street roundabout and pedestrian crossing caused unintended safety consequences for truck drivers.

Karāpiro report

Horwarth HTL have been asked by Waipā District Council to review reports the tourism consultancy company completed four years ago which identified an opportunity for standard motel style accommodation at Lake Karāpiro. The council wants to include the update in its new Karāpiro Lake Domain Reserve Management Plan.

Pay revealed

Extraction in river stream corridor & key catchment priority zones that feeds the waikato river

Cultural Landscape Area

-Alert - Karapiro Stream - 50m back from stream

Extraction within 10-15cm of waterway/stream

Discharge into waterway

Longfin eels ( Status: “At Risk - Declining”)

Long-tail bat habitat ( Status: “Nationally Critical”)

Removal of River Banks - no rehibilation of banks/natural landscape

I appreciate councillors who will bear the consequences of the ‘rates pain’ do not delve into the day-to-day management of engineers and other council employees who are responsible for implementing such ‘innovations’. They should however question the need for them, understand the cost/benefit and hold those responsible to account for their decisions.

One wonders how many other expensive initiatives have been foisted upon us which if forgone could help provide some rates relief?

Ray Milner

Cambridge

Right road

NZTA are correct in their stance to minimise on/off ramps. A dual highway’s main function is to move large numbers of vehicles swiftly over long distances.

When chief executive Garry Dyet left Waipā District Council in July he had earned $358,753 in the financial year ended June 30. Ten of the council’s 353 employees were earning between $180,000-$339,999, up from eight the previous year. Staff numbers rose from 288 full time equivalents in 2023 to 295 this year.

Media coverage

Connects to Waikato River Area prone to flooding - as shown Wetlands

Sponsored by the Waikato Sustainability Society info@nzssi.org, www.nzssi.org

Auckland’s motorway system is a shambles because it has developed into a means to move, very slowly, cars from one suburb to another.

The Waikato Expressway will get a new interchange somewhere south of Tamahere when the Southern Link is built and there will be pressure for another at or near Peake Rd when Waipa District Council finally concedes that a third river crossing for Cambridge is a priority.

Murray Reid Cambridge

Waipā District Council says its communications team has significantly exceeding a target set for being “referenced” by media outlets – up from 64 the previous year to 80. Its average monthly audience reach of 683,761 people was well up on the 200,000 set as a “How we measure success” matrix in the council’s Annual Report.

New partner for EDMONDS JUDD

To be a successful litigator, you need persuasive oratory skills, the ability to work long hours and perhaps most of all, a passion for research that leads you to the indefinable something that will either help your opponent see reason - or win your case.

For Te Awamutu-based Edmonds Judd’s lawyer and soon-to-be newest partner, Joanne Dickson, all those things are an everyday part of her life along with a genuine desire to help people navigate what can be a very difficult issue or life event.

Yet being a litigator wasn’t a choice she’d made early on.

“About 20-odd years ago, I was working in accounts roles; I didn’t enjoy them and decided to go to university,” Joanne says.

A chance decision saw her choose law school.

A helpful recruitment agent put Joanne’s CV in front of the partners at top tier law firm, Simpson Grierson, “they decided they liked the look of my CV and took me on”.

“I love everything about this work. Working out our arguments, drilling down into the facts and the law, working out what clients want and need. I just love it, it’s in my blood,” she says.

Being a commercial and civil litigator doesn’t always mean she and her clients end up in court.

“It’s important to try and facilitate an agreement between parties outside of the courtroom. So, we use negotiation,

or mediation or other methods to try to help the parties reach a resolution,”

Joanne says.

“But, if court is what is needed, then that’s where we go.”

For the past 15 years, Joanne has worked hard, moving to Edmonds Judd about three-and-a-half years ago to lead their litigation team. She works on diverse matters including relationship property, employment, trust and estate issues, copyright, and company, commercial and contractual disputes.

“I love Te Awamutu, it’s a friendly, busy community. You don’t have to go to Auckland to get great legal advice and results,” she says.

“The other partners have strong knowledge in each of their respective areas of expertise. That means I have great resources for the litigation side of the practice – if we need specialised information, I can have a chat with another partner and get the information I need.”

Joanne has several successful cases behind her, and one of her favourites is the successful court hearing of Christian v Bain in the Auckland High Court in 2022.

“That was really challenging, both legally

and physically.”

She remembers the last day, all she got sleep-wise was about an hour in an armchair in the office.

“I’d worked all night to be sure I was ready to give my closing submissions in front of the judge. One of our defencesresponsible communication on a matter of public interest - was relatively new.”

The case paid off. “I am so happy that our client was able to achieve closure, and I was a part of that.”

The shift to law firm partner is a natural progression.

“Offering Joanne a role as a partner of the firm was an easy decision” recalls Chris Grenfell, the firm’s managing partner at the time.

“Joanne is an excellent lawyer, considers the practical outcomes, and is a highly empathetic and caring person. She embodies the values of Edmonds Judd, and the partners are excited to be part of her journey in the law.”

In becoming a partner, Joanne says “It means the buck stops with you; you are fully responsible as a business owner.”

She says she is focused on growing her team to be the best they can be.

“I have a great team, bright and very capable. A large part of what I want to do

is grow the litigation practice,” she says. “I am excited to ensure that the firm’s diverse client base and the wider Te Awamutu and Ōtorohanga communities are well served with excellent specialist litigation practitioners for many years to come”.

NEW PARTNER Joanne Dickson

Photo of proposed quarry site - Cambridge

Historic Maori Pas

Sanctuary numbers detailed

By Chris Gardner

Maungatautari Ecological Island Trust lost $500,000 –most of it in depreciation - in

The numbers:

• 20,145 visitors in 2023-2024

• 10 kākāpō released onto Sanctuary Mountain Maungatautari

• 222 western Brown Kiwi moved to other homes.

• 222 kiwi health checks performed

• 400-plus trees planed around the visitor centre, wetland, and wetland restoration area

• 95 people participated in Rongoā Rākau tours

• 130 wetland grasses and sedges planted

• $75,000 raised at the Mauri of the Maunga Gala Dinner and Auction

• 15,000 tracking card place and checked

• 4207 school students participating in education programmes

• 38% increase in retail sales in the visitor centre

• 108 fence breach callouts

• 14,899 volunteer hours supporting staff with dayto-day activities

the financial year to June 30.

The operator of the world’s largest predator proof fence of 3363 hectares around Mt Maungatautari reported a $547,976 deficit compared to a $155,312 profit the previous year.

Chief executive Helen Hughes told The News around $300,000 of the deficit was depreciation. The operation costs $5000 a day to run. Funding and grants dropped from $2.381 million in 2023 to $1.286 million.

The loss of a contestable Department of Conservation Community Fund cost the trust $300,000 and other sources of funding dried up in the worsening economic climate.

The trust to cut seven of its 13 mountain rangers in the last year.

“We, like many other not-for-profits nationwide, have faced critical funding shortages,” said Hughes in the organisation’s annual report.

Hughes, who joined the organisation in October 2023, is the third chief executive in two years.

“The transition of three CEOs in two years has

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resulted in a reduction in proactively chasing funding, and it’s clear that our commercial ecosystem has been under immense pressure,” she said.

Donations also took a dive, from $320,947 to $179,238, interest revenue from $11,462 to $3409, and other income from $955 to $2.

However, revenue from providing goods and services almost doubled from $353,608 to $642,821. The trust is focussing on earning revenue through five funding pillars: tourism, education, science and research, donations, and biodiversity credits.

Airport share value drops

By Chris Gardner

The value of Waipā District Council’s shareholding in Waikato Regional Airport dropped by 1.7 per cent in the last year against a backdrop of falling profits.

The value of the council’s 777,110 shares in Waikato Regional Airport Ltd (WRAL) was reported as being worth $35.87 million in the year ending June 30, down from $36.493 million in 2023-24.

The airport company reported an 80 per cent plunge in pre-tax profit from $18.6 million to a $3.6 million.

There was a drop in airline passenger numbers and hotel occupancy, but aeronautical income was up.

Chief executive Mark Morgan blamed the challenging travel and tourism environment for the performance.

“In 2022-23 we saw record sales for Titanium Park with the successful completion of the fifth stage of the central precinct. We anticipated we would not get the same return from land sales this year and expect that to continue in the near future given the staged nature of our property development activities.”

SUNDAY 10 NOVEMBER

9AM-4.30PM

Board chair and former Hamilton City Council chief executive Barry Harris said the company had navigated several challenges in the harder than expected economic conditions encountered.

“What sets 2024 apart from recent years is the reduced contribution of land sales, and instead this year’s results are underpinned by growth of several key operating revenue streams,” he said.

“Titanium Park’s staged approach to development of land means there is some variability in land sales, and 2024 was always expected

to yield minimal land sales after the highs of 2023 which saw much of the Central Precinct sold off the plans.”

Harris said significant progress had been made in developing aeronautical opportunities in both the airline and general aviation sectors.

“The Hamilton Training Facility will be re-purposed as it has key that make it attractive to aviation operators who are currently engaged exploring how the facility can support their growth aspirations for their presence at Hamilton Airport, most notably from the aero-medical sector.”

Helen Hughes

Waikato Regional Airport Company chief executive Mark Morgan chats to Waipā mayor Susan O’Regan.

Cambridge Tree Trust

Cambridge Tree Trust

www.treetrust.org.nz

www.treetrust.org.nz

Five-finger (Neopanax/ Pseudopanax arboreum)

Five-finger (Neopanax/ Pseudopanax arboreum)

Focus on Street Trees

Driving down Shakespeare St, I noticed these two trees, each of which demonstrates some important features and uses of street trees.

The first is a crab apple, shown here just past its best flowering. Beautiful in spring, in winter it will be covered in tiny crab apples which are excellent food for many of our urban birds. And notice its beautiful form, with a straight, clean trunk and widespreading crown; the shade it throws across the footpath make conditions perfect for walking on hot summer days, the transpiration from its leaves cools the nearby homes, and all year round it helps diminish air pollution in the street.

Cambridge Tree Trust would like to thank

Cambridge Tree Trust would like to

monthly articles which are

monthly articles which are intended to

The second tree is an old, rather gnarly, flowering cherry, on which someone has hung both a swing and a rope climbing net for the local children to clamber into the branches. What a brilliant idea for a bit of neighbourhood play! But make sure your tree is robust enough to withstand this before swinging into action.

Work on genes holds hope for neuro diseases

By Viv Posselt

The benefits of advanced genetic research in identifying disease pathways and developing treatments was outlined at a recent talk in Cambridge.

New Zealand geneticist Professor Russell Snell’s talk to Cambridge U3A focused on trials being done on two neurodegenerative diseases, Alzheimer’s and Huntington’s Disease.

In both cases, researchers here and in Australia have tapped into sheep, primarily because their large, complex brain structure assimilates more closely to humans than do the brains of mice. Their longer lifespan is also an advantage.

Snell, who was born in Feilding and raised in South Otago, studied physics before completing his PhD in genetics in Wales in 1993. He is now with the Centre for Brain Research at Auckland University where his area of research is the identification of the genetic basis of diseases, and in the use of genetics in New Zealand’s agricultural sector. Huntington’s and Alzheimer’s diseases are inherited, but the disease

progression and age of onset is often determined by other factors.

Everybody inherits the Huntington’s gene, he said. Scientists have discovered that when that gene is faulty, the protein it produces repeats certain genetic sequences known as CAG at an increased rate. This faster repeat sequence appears to damage neurons in the brain, leading to the development of symptoms.

Experiments involving sheep have shown the presence of elevated levels of urea and ammonia in Huntington’s patients, leading to current research being done in both the brain and the liver, where urea and ammonia are produced.

“Most people working on Huntington’s are working in the brain. We are a bit of a contrarian and are looking at both the brain and the liver,” Snell said. “It is very much a work in progress at the moment.”

Sheep are also proving to be key to research around Alzheimer’s disease, he said, with investigations focusing on the potential to slow down the development of early-onset Alzheimer’s. The disease’s characteristic

diagnosis is the accumulation of tangles and plaques in the brain over time.

Snell’s work, which he said could be a gamechanger, focuses on what is known as the amyloid hypothesis, a process by which the amyloid protein sticks together to form clumps that later become plaques.

Understanding its effects is crucial to better understanding the disease. He said that until about three years ago, there was effectively no hope for Alzheimer’s patients. Work on the amyloid hypothesis is key to offering that hope, he said.

CUSTOMER DISCOUNTS ON THE WAY

Every year, we provide two discounts for customers connected to our network.

Our latest discount is now on the way with customers set to receive an average of $118 (including GST) off their next bill.

Since 2001 we’ve paid back more than $100 million to connected customers.

If your property is connected to the network and has been registered with a retailer on and as of 23 October 2024, a discount will be paid directly into your account through your retailer. More information can be found at: waipanetworks.co.nz/disclosure/customer-discounts/

talk2us@waipanetworks.co.nz

0800 800 769 waipanetworks.co.nz

Mitre 10

awareness of trees in Cambridge.

thank Mitre 10 for their support for these

intended to raise interest and awareness of trees in Cambridge.

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Professor Russell Snell

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ON SHAKY GROUND

A chance to meet and learn

By Janine Krippner

It’s amazing to think that a long while ago we were surrounded in Waipā by active volcanoes, now sleeping giants that will never wake again. They were once producing beautiful eruptions and modifying our landscape through time. They have since been weathered down by gravity and the elements, with the rocks contributing to productive soils across the region.

Next Thursday (November 7) at 7 pm volcanologist Oliver McLeod will join us at the Te Awamutu Library to give a public presentation on his research on the geology of Karioi volcano, near Raglan.

This is a free event where all ages are welcome. Having been to his presentation on his similar work on Pirongia, I highly recommend coming along. I will be joining Oliver to give an introduction before he takes the room, and I would love to see you there. Until recently, we didn’t know a lot about the volcanoes surrounding us. The most recent work was led by Oliver in a new and beautiful geologic map and book for all of us to enjoy

which describes the history of Karioi . Karioi is part of the Alexandra Volcanic Group, along with Pirongia, Kakepuku and Te Kawa volcanoes, all located along a straight line. Oliver’s book takes us to locations around the volcano with photographs accompanying explanations of what we see in cliff faces, and why the landscape looks like it does.

Karioi began erupting around 2.6 million years ago near the beginning of the ice age and went on to have a very productive life. Over 200,000 years the large cone we know as Karioi went through stages of growth and collapse.

The great thing about studying old volcanoes is that we can see some of their insides. Cliffs and river channels cut through the layers of rock that make up the volcano and the surrounding area, telling us about the types of eruptions that formed them.

Through this we now know that eruptions ranged from violent, producing large ash plumes similar to recent events at Ruapehu (for those of us who see the 90s as recent) to gentler

lava flow eruptions more like what we see on the news out of Iceland.

More than 50 scoria cones formed nearby, a similar situation to what we have in the Auckland Volcanic Field. There are also tuff rings, formed when magma mixes with water to produce a more violent eruption. Dykes are now exposed at the surface, showing us how the magma rose through the ground, producing signs of volcanic unrest as they went if we were there to experience them.

The rocks also tell us about the magma that rose from deep below, feeding the eruptions over many millennia. Oliver’s work describes two distinct magma types that rose from two very different depths within the earth. Understanding volcanoes requires looking at processes over very large distances, across very large spans of time.

Karioi is a beautiful example of an entire life cycle of a volcano, right there on our doorstep.

CAMBRIDGE

CAMBRIDGE VOLUNTEER FIRE BRIGADE CALLS OVER THE LAST WEEK

WEDNESDAY

9:55am, Cardiac Arrest, Bryce Street

TUESDAY

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

8:25pm, MVA and oil spill, Peak Road

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

WEDNESDAY

5:09pm, Bush Fire, Alpha Street

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

6:521pm, Building alarm and evacuation, Alpha Street

SUNDAY 3:53am, Medical assistance, Karapiro Road

6:22pm, Garage fire, Scott Street

Jules Duffart, French, 1924- French Town View, Oil on Board, Signed

Chest of Drawers, Mahogany, Finely moulded Ogee Feet, 104cm high, 119 wide, 52 deep, End 18th, early 19th C, good condition.

Trevor Lloyd, NZ, Hilltop (Glendowie), Original Etching, Signed, Inscribed, conservation framing

87A Victoria St, Cambridge P: 07 827 6074 Mob: 021 65 19 49 W: www.alysantiques.co.nz

TOWNHOUSES SELLING NOW

Located on the outskirts of Cambridge, Patrick Hogan Village provides a picturesque retirement setting.

Available now, these two and three bedroom homes are light and inviting with spacious open plan living. Complete with a contemporary kitchen and bathroom, and your own patio, they offer the perfect blend of comfort and style.

Enjoy an easy, low-maintenance lifestyle, with the added security and companionship of a growing village community.

Don’t miss out, call David on 0800 600 446 for more details.

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23 Hugo Shaw Drive, Cambridge

Powering up the country

By Chris Gardner

Sparks flew in Te Awamutu. Waipa Networks and The Lines Company’s and best line mechanics and cable jointers competed against

national peers at the annual three day Connection at Castleton Park, last week.

The News caught up the Waipa Networks team as they were rushing to the arena to compete.

They were Gary Muraahi of Te Awamutu, Jamie Milne of Kihikihi, Leighton Butler Hemara Otorohanga, and trainee Ashton Pullinger of Cambridge.

“I’m fairly happy with how we are

placing,” said Muraahi.

“The biggest challenge is the heat,” said Butler Hemara in 21 degrees.

Pullinger described the competition as a good experience.

“It’s good learning,” he said.

Waipā Networks’ Zak Ramsey placed third in the Cable Jointer Competition. Ramsey has worked for the company for eight years having joined the industry from school as a trainee aged 17.

He enjoys getting the power back on most. “It’s satisfying, fixing the fault and reinstating power,” he said.

“I remember one day I reinstated the power at the top of Cambridge Road and watched all the street and house lights switch on like a wave. What a feeling! “

He enjoyed the focused training time he had in the weeks leading up to the competition, as well as completing jointing tasks as well as study at home.

The Lines Company team placed second in the Line Mechanic Competition, beaten by Top Energy

Experienced professionals. Local specialists. Quality advice.

Cambridge | 07 827 5147

Hamilton | 07 848 1222 www.lewislawyers.co.nz

Experienced professionals. Local specialists. Quality advice.

Experienced professionals. Local specialists. Quality advice.

Cambridge | 07 827 5147 Hamilton | 07 848 1222 www.lewislawyers.co.nz

Cambridge | 07 827 5147 Hamilton | 07 848 1222 www.lewislawyers.co.nz

Ltd and followed by Omexon. The Annual Connections event was run by infrastructure sector training provider Connexis and hosted by Waipā Networks and The Lines Company.

Connexis Executive Director Kaarin Gaukrodger said the event presented a unique opportunity each year to raise the profile of the electricity supply industry and its work keeping New Zealand connected.

“The event shows off the value this work brings to their local communities to ensure our lives can be healthy and prosperous,” he said. “It is an opportunity, not just to compete but to share knowledge, promote excellence, and connect skilled workers from across New Zealand who will be our industry’s future leaders.

“This year’s event has been a huge success. It was an intensely fought competition this year, with all competitors demonstrating just how good they are.”

• More: cambridgenews.nz

Get Gardening

A monthly gardening column, courtesy of Amber Garden Centre This time of year is without doubt the most exciting time in the gardening calendar! Milder temperatures means you can grow all your favourite Summer crops like tomatoes, zucchini, cucumbers, melons, capsicums, squash, chillies and corn. Herbs are also essential to compliment your kitchen garden. They not only add depth to every dish, but also make great companion plants. Sage, basil, mint, parsley, thyme, coriander, and rosemary are great growers in the warmer months. Need beautiful blooms? Try annuals like petunias, begonias and impatiens, these also grow well in hanging baskets and containers. Perennials like armeria, bacopa, delphiniums and daises make a great show and will also attract pollinators.

Happy gardening!

Grow

Waipa Networks competitors Leighton Butler Hemara, left, Ashton Pallenger, Jamie Milne, and Gary Muraahi.

Ready for a new season?

OPEN DAYs

Friday 1 and Saturday 2 November, 10am – 3pm

Independent villas available at Whai Mauri Ora, 319 Manaia Road, Te Awamutu

Care suites available at Lauriston Park, 33 Thompson Street, Leamington, Cambridge

With acres of gorgeous grounds to enjoy, there’s nothing quite like Arvida’s Whai Mauri Ora in Te Awamutu in springtime. The same can be said for the beautiful gardens of Lauriston Park Care Centre in Cambridge.

Both are on show, with Open Days on Friday 1 and Saturday 2 November 10am – 3pm giving you the opportunity to experience retirement lifestyle opportunities in the Waipā area.

Call Juliet on 021 240 7192 or visit arvida.co.nz

Whai Mauri Ora

Lauriston Park

CONFERENCE, VENUES AND EVENTS

Choosing a venue: the list is a crucial start

It can be a daunting choice when given the task of choosing a venue for the first time, no matter what the reason for the occasion. There are so many variables to take into account – not just how many people are you catering for and have you got enough room to park their cars, put them in a bed and feed them. Selecting the right venue for an event is crucial for its success. To streamline the decision-making process, creating a structured list is a foregone conclusion. It’s knowing what that list needs to have on it which will help make or break a successful gathering.

Below are the six most important questions you need on your list: Define your event requirements

Begin by outlining the specific needs of your event. Consider factors such as the type of event (wedding, corporate meeting, conference, etc.), estimated guest count, and the desired atmosphere (formal, casual, outdoor, etc.).

Budget considerations

Establish a clear budget for venue expenses. Include not just rental fees, but also additional costs like catering, decorations, and technology, which includes everything from projectors and wifi to music. This will help narrow down options that are financially viable.

Location factors

Assess the ideal location for your event. Consider the actual accessibility for your guests, availability or proximity to parking, or public transport if that’s required, and the overall environment. Make a note of venues near accommodation if guests are travelling from afar and your venue of choice does not have inbuilt accommodation.

Venue amenities and services

List the essential amenities you require, such as seating, audio-visual equipment, restrooms, and wifi. Additionally, consider whether the venue provides catering, setup services, or has restrictions that might affect your event. For many today, the ability to hold everything under one umbrella is quite important.

Availability and flexibility

Check the availability of the venues based on your preferred dates. It’s also crucial to note how flexible they are with rescheduling or accommodating changes in guest count due to unforeseen circumstances.

Visit potential venues

Lastly, schedule site visits to shortlisted venues. Take notes on the ambiance, layout, and overall suitability for your event. It allows you to ask questions while on site and quite often, you’ll find such visits will raise questions you won’t have thought of beforehand.

By following these steps, you can create a comprehensive list that will guide you in selecting the ideal venue tailored to your event’s specific needs.

WE WOULD LOVE TO HOST YOU FOR YOUR NEXT EVENT

It matters what you believe…

By Murray Smith, Bridges Church

I overheard someone say, “It doesn’t matter what you believe so long as you are sincere.”

I nearly interrupted because what we believe matters so much. Regardless of being sincere, nice people are sincerely wrong all the time and can be utterly misguided in their beliefs.

Some years ago, a 22 year old man arrived at Los Angeles International Airport, returning from holidaying in Europe. He was heading home to Oakland, California 400 miles away. However he boarded an Air New Zealand flight bound for Auckland.

Nearing Tahiti, an inflight announcement shocked Michael Lewis as to his predicament.

Arriving at Auckland Airport, Lewis told a customs officer that he had arrived in Los Angeles aboard an Air New Zealand flight from London and ‘followed the crowd’, many of whom were traveling on to Auckland.

The officer stated, “Michael was asked where he was going. He replied ‘Oakland,’ received a boarding pass, ending up on the wrong aircraft.” This passenger sincerely believed that he was homeward bound for Oakland.

‘Following the crowd,’ got him diverted thousands of kilometres, in the opposite direction to home.

His unscheduled Auckland visit earned Lewis a return ticket to Los Angeles courtesy of Air New Zealand.

In another situation, an equally ‘sincere’ Kiwi grandmother, lost her entire life’s savings totalling hundreds of thousands of dollars to offshore scammers not long ago. Scammers, claiming to be legitimate financial advisors, convinced her their pitch was genuine. The pitch featured fake AI video generation portrayals of Christopher Luxon, Winston Peters and others. The targeted superannuitant believed she had made legitimate cryptocurrency investments.

It stacked up in her thinking - overseas ‘help-desk’ conversations, assurances of high returns lured her into facilitating transfers over weeks that siphoned everything from her savings account into a crypto exchange platform. The first dividend payment failed to show up in her account, setting off alarm bells. Attempts to recover any money have proved futile. This lady sincerely believed that her money was “safe and secure” but she was sincerely wrong. A victim of cruel deception, sadly she had “backed the wrong horse”.

How about you? Are you backing the wrong horse when it comes to crucial matters of life and death? Commonly, people’s flawed perspectives influence them into trusting a false narrative offering assurance they’ll be alright so long as they’re sincere and try their best. Many conclude, “trusting Christ as Saviour may be great for you, but it’s not for me”. That’s really an illogical position because Christianity being true is vitally important to all of us.

C.S. Lewis wrote, “Christianity is a statement which if false is of no importance and if true, is of infinite importance. The one thing it cannot be is moderately important.”

We must understand some seriously bad news in order for some very good news to make sense. You see, we’re in a perilous position ‘on the wrong flight’, scammed into a false sense of security. Lost and alienated from God through our sin, our predicament is hopeless. However there’s good news for everyone. We can receive forgiveness and salvation, heralding a brand new beginning that is made available through faith and belief in Jesus Christ.

https://cafeerresistiblue.co.nz/functions/christmas/

The Great Kiwi Summer Festival returns to Lake Karapiro next

Mark your calendars for 9 – 10 November 2024 as the Great Kiwi Summer Festival returns for its second year to the Mighty River Domain on the shores of Lake Karapiro.

The Great Kiwi Summer Festival brings together a variety of events to provide 2-days of family fun and entertainment on the shores of Lake Karapiro in Cambridge on 9 - 10 November. This year the festival will feature the Shaw’s Illuminate Light and Sound Show, Cambridge Hunting and Fishing Outdoor Expo, Waterworld, Armistice in Cambridge and Franklin Park Freestyle Dreams presented by Fieldline.

Cambridge - the largest Armistice celebration of its kind in New Zealand. This event features an immersive living history of things to see and do with plenty of family-friendly activities and some historical battle re-enactments.

• One of the biggest hits of the 2023 festival, Waterworld offers the whole family a fun on water experience. The waterpark brings together that true essence of pure family fun experienced in days gone by. Mums, dads and grandparents suddenly become 16 again and do their best to keep up with the kids!

Visit www.greatkiwisummer.co.nz/whats-on/ to check out all that is on offer!

• Keen to get outdoors this summer? Check out the Outdoor Expo with tents, BBQ, Boats and on water displays taking place across both days.

• Illuminate Light & Sound Show promises to light up the skies at the Mighty River Domain with an awe-inspiring sound and light show. The event is all about championing a more sustainable public display light and sound show for families and communities to enjoy.

• The Franklin Farm Freestyle Dreams is set to make their thrilling debut in the Waikato region. They will be bringing with them a high-energy showcase of extreme talent on motocross (FMX) and bicycle motocross (BMX) bikes.

• Experience history come to life with Armistice in

Your ticket for the Illuminate Light & Sound Show includes access to the other events as part of the Great Kiwi Summer Festival. Scan the QR code below to get your tickets now! Tickets are limited!

A welcome change

By Peter Carr

It would be fair to observe that occasionally I have been a tad critical of the performances of those driving Waipā District Council and both elected and management levels.

In fact, one of the elected number approached me last week asking how he could make contact with me to express his opposing views. Possibly (could that be hopefully?) because he has recognised a general displeasure with his performance which, sadly, stems from within the council and outside. But one can only hope.

But to prove that I can be fairminded and, occasionally, rational I would like to offer a plaudit for recent change at the top of the 332 person staff structure. But first a recap.

For 15 years the chief executive’s chair has been occupied by a long-time and very honest servant of the council – in fact a total career with the same employer. Over the more recent years the perceived silence from the top has been almost stultifying.

This is not meant as a character assassination, far from it, but an aura of silence where questions asked by the electorate regarding the presence of the chief executive revealed a broad lack of knowledge as to the holder of the title. This, coupled with a general history of longevity among senior officers, and a previous mayor who came through the same staff pipeline, revealed that Sleepy Hollow was alive and well.

A change of mayor two years ago was a sharp reminder that change is possible. The new mayor was

someone with very little direct local body experience but a wide political knowledge gained at the knee of her mother. Someone with a sharp legal brain and the ability to sum up a situation cleanly and promptly with the realisation that there was a need for change.

Last week at the Cambridge Town Hall we witnessed a breath of fresh air when the mayor updated us with a short treatise about how she searched for – and found – a new chief for the council. It was a balanced and well set out rationale of why change was needed and how her choice would hopefully meet that challenge.

And then the new incumbent herself. Clear presentation, a smattering of simple slides. An admission that the council had made a major mistake (a few attendees almost fainted) and a promise to ‘do better’. It was balanced with a clear and apposite explanation - using a balland-chain analogy - as to why local body management leaders cannot always meet the immediate demands of the electorate.

Welcome to Waipā, Steph O’Sullivan. Clearly you will address the sad, local body mix-up between management and governance. Clarity and a professional open attitude will be very welcome which should engender a reciprocal support for sensible and beneficial progress all round. AGE

Views on a quarry

By Jo Davies-Colley, Chair, Cambridge Community Board

Cambridge Community Board set three strategic priorities to focus on when we were first elected. They were to advocate for a new library and community hub, support walking and cycling paths town wide and lastly, to ensure the vibrancy of our central business districts in Cambridge and Leamington.

We have linked many issues back to this CBD priority from advocating on projects such as Cambridge Connections through to smaller issues such as more drinking fountains and seating.

As part of this advocacy, we are reviewing the resource consent application for RS Sands Limited to establish a sand quarry at 77 Newcombe Road, Cambridge.

We requested an extension to the submission period so our community could have more time to understand the potential impact a quarry so close to town could have and we were pleased to have that request accepted.

While the community board acknowledges the increased need for sand, and other materials, needed to support the construction and growth industries of our district, we have two specific concerns.

While there have been varying numbers of proposed truck movements circulated, with some suggesting up to 400 a day, the Cambridge community board strongly opposes any increased truck movements through town, whether it be 10 or 400. As we are already at or near what the truck movements were when SH1 went through our town, we would not like to see any increased level at all.

These increased truck numbers pose some significant issues for our community – road congestion, noise pollution and safety concerns for road users and pedestrians alike.

We are particularly worried for St Peters Catholic School children whose school sits directly

Servicing for longevity and performance

A well-serviced vehicle is less likely to suffer from unexpected breakdowns, which in turn reduces the risk of accidents. Routine checks ensure that crucial components like brakes, tyres, and lights are functioning properly, keeping you and others safe on the road. Over time, wear and tear can affect how your car handles and operates. Regular servicing includes engine tuning, oil changes, and filter replacements, all of

which help your vehicle run smoothly and efficiently, improving fuel economy and overall performance.

Minor issues, if left unchecked, can lead to major and expensive repairs down the line. Routine maintenance allows mechanics to identify and fix problems early, saving you money and preventing inconvenient breakdowns.

Cars that are regularly serviced tend to last longer. Proper care reduces strain

Pop into see Jarrod at Tyre & Wheel Solutions (behind 4WD Solutions) for your free tyre check.

next to the route proposed and wonder how those children walking or on bikes will navigate their way across Queen Street through increasingly heavy traffic when there is only one pedestrian crossing. Finally, we are also concerned that heavy vehicle passage past our heritage buildings and bridges may have a negative impact on structural integrity and that road degradation may also be accelerated with heavy vehicle movement through town.

We believe the wider community has been vocal in their desire to see a reduction in heavy trucks through the CBD and are concerned this could undermine the character and vibrancy of our town.

We also have concerns around how the environment will be affected by the quarry, both at its Newcombe Road site but also as the trucks loaded with sand move through our town and the wider district.

We are seeking assurance that any quarry activity will not impact our waterways and are further concerned about air pollution from fine dust from the commuting trucks, from the quarry site to their destination. Waipā District Council is committed to protecting our native flora and fauna through the Waikato Biodiversity Accord and we hope this will be front of mind in any consent conditions.

The submission period for this application closes on November 4. If you also wish to submit, you can do so through the Waipā District Council website.

Your submission does not have to be lengthy or technical, it can be as simple as writing, I support or do not support this application.

As always, we welcome your feedback on this or any other issue, either via email or in person in our public forum at the beginning of our monthly meetings. All are welcome.

on engine components, ensuring your vehicle can remain reliable for years.

And there’s no forgetting that a vehicle with a consistent service history will appeal to buyers and often, commanding a higher resale price. So, servicing also protects your investment.

Regular vehicle servicing is a small, proactive step that ensures your car remains safe, efficient, and cost-effective in the long run.

Decisions about Cup await

Cambridge trainers

Shaune Ritchie, Colm Murray and Andrew Forsman were all waiting on how their horses Mahrajaan and Positivity had recovered from injuries this week before deciding whether to take their place in the Melbourne Cup.

And champion Kaipaki jockey James McDonald, who rode his 100th group one winner on Via Sistina in the Cox Plate at Moonee Valley - and promptly got fined for his efforts - is hoping the speedy horse’s connections confirm entry into the Cup.

There has already been plenty of drama leading up to the $9 million race at Flemington Racecourse in Australia next Tuesday.

Ritchie and Murray scratched Mahrajaan from the rich Moonee Valley Gold Cup last week after a spider bit the thoroughbred at his Warrnambool base. Mahrajaan, who races under the United States flag, was left with a “leg that’s blown up”.

A scan confirmed it was not a ligament issue and “with all insect bites, they take a little bit of time to get

the swelling out”. Forsman scratched Positivity from the Caulfield Cup when she had bruising in a foot after an early morning gallop. She then came last at the weekend in the Moonee Valley Cup won by fellow Kiwi horse Sharp ‘N’ Smart.

McDonald, who is due to have his name added to Cambridge’s Walk of Fame after The News’ editor Roy Pilott nominated him, copped a $2000 fine for celebrating too early on seven year old Irish mare Via Sistina.

She was so far ahead – eight lengths, in what is traditionally a close

appetiser to the Melbourne Cup - that McDonald had time to stand in the irons and pose for a photo before the finish line.

Four New Zealand horses were still in contention when the barrier draw was made on Tuesday. Positivity, Sharp ‘N’ Smart, Kovalica and Trust in You. There could have been a fifth – Mark Twain, trained in Cambridge by Roger James and Robert Wellwood - earned automatic qualification when he won the ballot exempt Listed Roy Higgins in Melbourne earlier this year. But he was ruled out in August of spring racing with a tendon strain.

Cambridge aces it

Cambridge Racquets Club was named Waikato Tennis Trust’s club of the year last week.

And club members were also named volunteer of the year, female player of the year and administrator of the year for the Waikato Thames Valley region.

The major club award recognised the club’s atmosphere and culture. Cambridge has activities organised every day of the week ranging from Sunday afternoon social sessions to the men’s premiership senior interclub league.

Annabel Chapman, a rising star in New Zealand tennis, was named female player of the year having reached a national number four ranking in the 16-and-under category. This year she has showcased her talents in Ireland, Malaysia, Fiji and New Caledonia. Volunteer of the year Mike Causer contributes to organising regional junior fixtures and regional events and administrator of the year Suzie Halliday is credited with an invaluable contribution ranging from organising tournaments to grant applications.

And the finalists were…

Know Your Local Childcare

Mahrajaan, trained by Cambridge’s Shaune Ritchie and Colm Murray.

This Cambridge badminton team comprising, from left, Glennis Verhoeven, Nicki Davis, Maureen Shaw, Lyn McCorquindale, Debbie Fisher and Lynda Davis has finished second in a tournament in Australia. The

Cambridge Badminton Club team played in Melbourne at the annual Atalanta Badminton Jamboree, an event comprising about 300 competitors. The women’s competition, played every day over a week, is as a different location each year and this year marked its 40th anniversary. Cambridge, as the Cambridge Misfits NZ was in the D-section of the team event and was beaten by a Victorian team 4-3 in the final.

Spotlight on Cambridge

FIVE STAGS

Five Stags at 9 Campbell St in Leamington is styled on a hunting lodge; where you can enjoy the warmth of a re, catch the game with mates over a few drinks or enjoy their well-known menu featuring some of the best foods New Zealand has to o er from slow roasted beef, venison burgers, pork ribs, to southern fried chicken, and the best fresh sh.

FORAGE

Forage customers love the healthy range of cold pressed juices, kombucha, tonics, nut milk, smoothies and raw slices with no additives, sugar, gluten or dairy used. Gut health is hugely important so a range of fermentation kits and culture starters are available.

Explore Forage’s full range of products, at 21 Empire St, or foragejuice.co.nz

HERITAGE TRADING CO

The Heritage Trading Company in Cambridge, is where you’ll nd French and English vintage and antique homewareseverything from kitchen curios, elegant furniture, vintage jewellery as well as sustainable clothing clothing.

The Heritage Trading Company at 40 Duke St, is open seven days a week, from 9.30am until 4.30pm and on Sundays from 10am until 3pm.

JOE’S GARAGE

Joe’s Garage, at 107 Swayne Rd – “halfway between the high school and the motorway,” is part of a nation-wide franchise. From cooked breakfast, a good range of burgers, sh and chips, pizza, steak meals to a wide variety in the cabinet of sweet and savoury, hot and cold foods, Joe’s Garage open seven days a week, will have something to suit.

PIJJAS PIZZA

Pijjas Pizza brings Neapolitan and Margherita pizzas to Cambridge pizza a cionados, using specialised ours, and the freshest mozzarella to basil, olive oil to tru e oil. Fresh herbs and vegetables, seafood and dedicated delicatessen meats, with a variety of sizes. From sides like breads to marinara, a kids menu -they will deliver within the Cambridge urban area.

Five Stags Leamington is the home of Stonegrill

MARGHERITA POMODORO, MOZZARELLA, BASIL $20

SPUTA FUOCO (FIRE BREATHING) POMODORO, MOZZARELLA, SPICY SALAMI, NDUJA, MASCARPONE $25

TARTUFOSA MOZZARELLA, MUSHROOM, TRUFFLE PASTE, ROCKET, TRUFFLE OIL $25

VERDUROSA POMODORO, MOZZARELLA, SEASONAL VEGES, EVO $22

PORCA POMODORO, MOZZARELLA, SALAME, HAM, SAUSAGE, EVO $26

ORTO DI MARE MOZZARELLA, ZUCCHINI, GARLIC PRAWNS, ROCKET, PARMESAN $25

PIEDINA ROMAGNOLA PROVOLONE, PARMESAN, ROCKET, PARMA, HOT HONEY, GORGONZOLA $26

SMALL SHARE PUFFY BREAD EVO, FLAKY SALT $13

MARINARA BURNT BUTTER, POMODORO,

Across 1. Look casually through a book or magazine (6) 5. Running from justice (6) 8. Spoil (3) 9. Soak up (6) 10. Swallow (6) 11. Witty remark (4) 13. Increased (8) 14. Peculiarly (5)

Last week

15. Eccentric (5) 19. Negligent (8) 21. Long tale (4) 22. Frugality (6) 23. Light (6)

Across: 1. Habit, 4. Scrape, 7. Opt, 8. Slogan, 9. Unsure, 10. Humpback, 12. Lieu, 13. Tissue, 15. Pretty, 16. Daze, 17. Position, 19. Fiasco, 20. Limpid, 22. Rut, 23. On edge, 24. Yacht. Down: 1. Hallucination, 2. Bag, 3. Tonga, 4. Stuck-up, 5. Resilient, 6. Perfectionist, 11. Possessed, 14. Explore, 18. Salty, 21. Mac.

YOUNG

Luxury rural retreat

Welcome to this breathtaking luxury rural retreat, architecturally designed by the renowned Turner Road Architecture and masterfully built by Jay Cowley Builder. Nestled on 8.409 hectares of stunning rural land, this cedar-clad masterpiece offers the perfect blend of modern luxury and country charm, just 10km from the boutique town of Cambridge. The main home truly embodies high-end living, with two generous wings for ultimate comfort and privacy. In one wing, you'll find two spacious bedrooms, a fully tiled modern bathroom, and a cozy lounge for relaxed living. In the heart of the home, the openplan living room, dining area, and contemporary kitchen with scullery provide the perfect space for entertaining, complete with a double-sided gas fireplace, natural wood accents, and polished concrete floors. Step through the bifold doors to a louvre-covered entertaining area, ideal for year-round gatherings. Call now to find out more.

Te Miro 1/369 Flume Road

Income generating lifestyle

Located just 8 kilometers from charming Cambridge, this property spans 12.96 hectares and features two distinct dwellings, providing multiple avenues for income generation. The main residence features four spacious bedrooms, along with an office and a modern kitchen equipped with a scullery. A cozy log burner ensures the home stays warm during the colder months. It includes a family bathroom, while the master bedroom boasts its own ensuite. The flooring showcases a blend of carpet and Matai timber flooring. The generous deck seamlessly incorporates the open plan living with the mature landscaped gardens, providing an ideal space for outdoor relaxing. Additionally, a charming 60 m2 cottage with two bedrooms generates a rental income of $535 (including power) per week. With 6 hectares of flat land leased for maize and rolling contours perfect for rearing beef cattle, this property offers excellent agricultural potential.

Hayward M 027 562 4598 E cath.hayward@pb.co.nz

Te Miro 1/336 Flume Road

Cambridge 21 Alpha Street

Retro, renovate or redevelop

Step into a world of possibilities with this Art Deco-inspired gem, built in the 1940s and set on a substantial 1133m2 parcel of land. Zoned 'Residential 9A', this property offers boundless potential - whether you're looking to refurbish, renovate, or redevelop.

Currently holding a Heritage C listing, the property is being sold 'as is, where is,' making it an exciting project for those with vision. Its generous size and prime location make it ideal for multi-unit development, and it is sure to attract savvy investors and developers alike.

Opportunities like this are rare - contact us today to unlock the full potential of this centrally located treasure.

Cambridge 108 Hautapu Road

Premium Hautapu real estate

Be a part of the newest industrial precinct under development in Hautapu. This 1.8ha block borders the main arterial road into the new industrial area of approximately 14 hectares, providing excellent scope to access the services which will be created for this development.

This site can be maintained as one with over 3000m2 of existing buildings generating holding income of approximately $170,000 p/a, or subdivided into smaller lots as per the Waipa Council structure plan.

Contact your Hautapu specialists today for a full information pack.

Tender closes 4.00pm, Wed 20th Nov, 2024 (unless sold prior), 34 Victoria Street, Cambridge View By appointment

Web pb.co.nz/CBC192604

Alan Copeman M 021 874 222 E alan.copeman@pb.co.nz

Tony Wakelin M 021 569 299 E tony.wakelin@pb.co.nz

Tender closes 4.00pm, Wed 20th Nov, 2024 (unless sold prior), 34 Victoria Street, Cambridge View By appointment

Web pb.co.nz/CBC190071

Alan Copeman M 021 874 222 E alan.copeman@pb.co.nz

Tony Wakelin M 021 569 299 E tony.wakelin@pb.co.nz

Surprisingly Private - Inside A Dream

- Open-plan layout that seamlessly connects the spacious living area to the modern kitchen.

- Great-sized bedrooms, master bedroom with sunny balcony.

- Pristine bathroom with separate toilet; single car garage and offstreet space.

- Features - polished hardwood floors; white venetian blinds; crisp renovation finishes; heat pump comfort; sun-filled entertainers’ deck and lovely garden landscape.

Stunningly Immaculate Design

- Immaculate, designer kitchen with generous walk-in pantry.

- Light-filled & warm open plan concept dining and living space; separate family room/ lounge.

- Stunning main bathroom; three toilets; separate laundry and an internal access carpeted double garage with attic storage.

- Ample indoor-outdoor flow to the entertainer’s deck features a rain sensored louvretech system, outdoor under eave lighting and a vibrant and neatly landscaped setting.

- The 727m² (more or less) section offers plenty of space for kids & pets. Fully fenced, with a double garage & ample off-street parking.

- Central heating keeps the 3-bedroom home cosy in winter, while summer breezes flow freely. Complete with a separate bathroom and ensuite.

- The spacious kitchen and open-plan dining area opens up to the picture-perfect courtyard.

- Master bedroom features an adjoining side room with access to the timeless wrap-around deck.

- Functional, spacious kitchen with great indoor/outdoor flow to expansive deck, complete with rain sensor louvre.

- The master bedroom boasts ensuite, walk-in-robe, & deck access.

- Space for the family / guests to spread out over three more bedrooms, family bathroom with separate toilet and hand basin.

- Wide hallway with study nook ideal for homework or work.

- 2 heat pumps, gas fire & Smart Vent for year round heating/cooling.

- Double return gates to the side of the home open for trailer/camper.

- A 290 sqm (more or less) floorplan, superbly set on a generous, 1012 sqm (more or less) beautifully landscaped section.

- Great-sized kitchen/ dining; sun-filled living space; ample indoor-outdoor flow to the multiple outdoor entertainment areas.

- Expansive, covered balcony with incredible outlook.

- Huge ground level basement including unbeatable garaging and workshop space plus ample off-street parking.

- Heat pump, woodfire & heat transfer system–comfort is guaranteed.

- Immaculate 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom townhouse privately tucked at the end of a quiet Lane.

- Offering a gorgeous and sizeable kitchen; open plan dining area.

- Three generous bedrooms accommodated by two well-appointed bathrooms, one being an ensuite for the spacious master bedroom located without popping up the easy stairs – a unique feature of the superb layout split over two levels.

- Vibrant, appealing, sun-filled & low maintenance garden setting.

4-Bedroom Family Home

- Set on an 869 sqm (more or less) freehold section, with perfectly maintained mowing strips, raised gardens, irrigation system, lemon and lime trees and fabulous inground pool (8m x 4m).

- Modern kitchen complete with Brazilian granite benchtop, walk-in pantry, five-burner gas cooktop, water filter and waste disposal.

- Good-sized bedrooms including master with walk-in robe & ensuite.

- Features - multiple premium heating sources; efficient solar panelling with Tesla battery; a 3.6m ceiling height in the living area and a separate lounge room.

- Spacious master bedroom features a ranch slider that opens to a charming deck, complemented by a generous walk-in wardrobe and a luxurious tiled ensuite storage.

- A separate lounge offers a cozy retreat, while the convenient powder room and walk-in linen cupboard add to the functionality.

- Open-plan kitchen that seamlessly connects to the dining & lounge.

- Fully fenced and set off the road, this home provides a safe and private environment for children and pets.

Set privately on 2,747sqm (more or less) in 'Pukekura', Cambridge's recent lifestyle enclave, your tranquil location has you minutes to the township, and Lake Karapiro, with wide cycle paths leading to both. The 289sqm (more or less) architecturally designed, 2020 built home, is immaculate, offering that 'new home' feel, and offers up comforts you expect from a home of this calibre, ducted heating and cooling, tiled and heated bathrooms, and high ceilings. Two covered entertaining zones with a sparkling inground swimming pool and room for shedding or a tennis court! bayleys.co.nz/2350846

CAMBRIDGE OPEN HOMES

Briefs…

Appointments made

Crs Dale Maree Morgan and Mike Montgomerie will join Cambridge Community Board member Andrew Myers as council appointments to the Karāpiro Domain Reserve Management Plan review which is taking place because there have been significant changes in the number and range of facilities, activities, events and visitors.

Hall a finalist

Cambridge Town Hall has been named one of three finalists in the Entertainment Venues Association’s small venue of the year (under 1000 seats) awards. The Town Hall is up against the Globe Theatre (Palmerston North) and the Turner Centre (Kerikeri). General manager Simon Brew is also a finalist in the Team Leader of the Year award. The winners will be announced on December 4.

Award winner

Cambridge’s new wastewater treatment plant, a partnership between the district council and iwi over the design has won an award from Ace - a non-profit organisation for consultant engineering companies - for its commitment to collaborate, embrace indigenous knowledge and honour the principles of guardianship

Different spot

Cambridge Farmers’ Market has been using the northern end of Victoria Square while its more usual south home has been regrassed in time for the start of the cricket season on the square next month.

New cul de sac

Construction of a cul de sac in Grey St at the intersection with Hamilton Rd gets underway soon. Pedestrian crossings and footpaths will be upgraded on the street up to Clare St and a new walking and cycling path built to enable safer trips by Cambridge Middle School students. The work is part of the Cambridge Pathway project funded by New Zealand Transport Agency and Waipā council.

Boundary change

Frontier Estate in the Te Awamutu T1 growth cell will move from the Pirongia-Kakepuku rural ward into urban Te Awamutu-Kihikihi for next year’s local body elections to comply with the Local Electoral Act regulations about representation. Pirongia growth means the two councillors each had a population of 6175 to represent this term compared with the 5100 the three Te Awamutu councillors had.

Kaiāwhina/ Associate Teacher

Part-time (33 hours per week)

Te Awamutu:

He tūranga e wātea ana ki te Kura o Ngā Purapura o Te Aroha. E kimi ana mātou i tētehi Kaiāwhina e mōhio ana ki ngā mahi whakaako tamariki mō te kura. Me matua mōhio hoki te kaitono ki ngā mahi whakahaere i te akomanga, me ngākaunui hoki ki ngā mahi whakaako tamariki. Me mōhio te kaitono ki te reo māori me ōna tikanga. He kura tēnei e hāpai nei i ngā wawata me ngā tumanako o ā mātou tamariki mokopuna. E whakapono ana mātou, he taonga te tamaiti, ko rātou hoki te pūtake o tā mātou kaupapa.

Ka katia tēnei tono hei te 31 o Oketopa,2024. Tukua rānei tō Tātai Oranga ki te Kaiwhakahaere: tari@npota.school.nz

Attention: Te Wharekura o Ngā Purapura o Te Aroha. Enquiries (07) 871 4844

ALLEN, Derek Andrew Thomas – Peacefully slipped away at home on Friday, 25th October 2024. Aged 62 years. Devoted husband to Louise. Adored father to Josh. ‘Special thanks to Hospice Waikato for the amazing care given to Derek over the past 3 months.’ A Requiem Mass will be held for Derek at St Peter's Catholic Church, Anzac Street, Cambridge, on Tuesday, 5th November 2024 at 11:00am followed by the burial at the Hautapu public cemetery. Donations to St Peter's Catholic Church Building Fund would be appreciated and may be left at the service. All communications to the Allen Family, c/- 3 Hallys Lane, Cambridge 3434.

BURTON, Patricia Thelma – Passed away at Cambridge Resthaven on Tuesday, 22 October 2024. Aged 95 years. Dearly loved wife of the late Gordon for 67 years. Loved mother of Gregory and Martin, and adored mother of Deirdre. Grandmother of Samuel and Joseph. At Patricia's request a private burial has taken place. All communications to the Burton Family, c/- 3 Hallys Lane, Cambridge, 3434.

OFF Hamilton Rd, $225.00 per wk, quiet off street 3 bdrm house, vegetarian, no TV. Ph 0275 067348 to view.

DECEASED

ESTATE

– 49 Grosvenor Street, Cambridge. From 7am Saturday November 2, 2024. Includes two single beds, furniture, kitchen ware, quality ladies clothing large size. Phone Dave 0224749929.

CRISP, Margaret Ann, (Marge) – Peacefully passed away at Cambridge Oakdale on Tuesday, 22nd October 2024, aged 83 years. Soul mate and devoted wife of Ron for 63 years. Loved mother and mother in-law to Deborah & Peter, and Gary & Jane. Cherished Nan to Aaron, and Marc. Will be sadly missed. Special thanks to the staff of Cambridge Oakdale for the love and support over the past two years. A celebration of Marge's life has been held. All communications to the Crisp Family, c/- 3 Hallys Lane, Cambridge 3434.

GRAZING AVAILABLE

LONG TERM HEIFER GRAZING AVAILABLE NOW. Good to rolling contour. Well fenced and watered. Summer safe (eczema free). Experienced dairy support farmers for over 30 years. Have two blocks available. Come and visit us! Contact 027 487 7854 or 07 878 7703.