Richard Wallace would do it again in an Artbeat… we review Ōtorohanga’s big weekend
Page 4
Come together, right now?
Frances Rawlings joins the call for two councils to be one
Page 7
Budget blowout? Max Baxter say we’re not likely to get a nasty surprise like Waipā did.
Page 8
Preparing for a berry busy time
By Sigrid Christiansen
Waikato-Tainui executive Glenda Taituha-Toka, originally from Piopio is a finalist in the Young Executive of the Year category of the Deloitte Top 200 Awards.
The winners will be announced on December 5.
The Rahui-Pōkeka (Huntly) based Taituha-Toka, also a PhD candidate and mother to Arnika (19) Hikoi (7) and Niwha (4) has been recognised for her work as general manager of Heritage and Identity at the Waikato-Tainui post governance settlement entity (PGSE) a position with responsibility for “tribal narratives, tribal archives and the taonga and carving collections of the Kīngitanga”.
She’s known for practical support of whānau – such as her work towards a 2022 partnership with Southern Cross enabling 14000 kaumātua to get access to health insurance.
“We want to protect our valuable kaumātua and help them to stay with their tamariki and mokopuna for longer,” she said.
“Our kaumātua guide us, and without them we would be lost,
so we have huge aspirations to care for and protect them by increasing access to preventative healthcare.”
Taituha-Toka said when growing up “the aunties” were her biggest inspiration – such as when they ran the show at Ōparure and Napinapi Pā, Piopio and Te Kotahitanga, Ōtorohanga.
“Those aunties could run rings around most business leaders.”
She says an upbringing as a pā child at Ōparure provided her with plenty of examples of how to “get in there and do things together, just get stuff done.”
“These days I don’t get home as much as I’d like, but I keep in touch with cousins and am able to contribute to things like funding applications.”
She’s no fan of being interviewed about herself: “I’ll avoid that if I possibly can,” but agreed to chat with the King Country News, because she had had “so many messages of support” from whānau back home.
“It’s always difficult to be pulled out of your team – it’s never one individual [doing the work].”
Tainui executive in the running
Taituha-Toka hesitates to describe herself as a “leader” instead saying her life’s motto is to find a kaupapa, a purpose to support and then “be the first follower.”
She’s always enjoyed working for Māori organisations – and worked for Te Wānanga o Aotearoa in the past before coming to Waikato-Tainui.
She wanted to reach out to young people who like her, are also drawn to the same pathway: iwi governance in post-settlement times, and put the word out there that she was there to offer her support.
Taituha-Toka is the daughter of weaver Dr Gloria Taituha, who for 25 years has been a kaiako at Te Wananga o Aotearoa and is a kaiarahi, a leader, of its raranga (weaving) programme at Apakura campus, Te Awamutu.
Glenda is the youngest daughter of Perry Taituha, and she’s found much inspiration in his four-decade stretch on the committee of Ōparure Pā: “he taught me how to work hard.”
Her grandfather, Kīngitanga orator Pumi Taituha, was one of the speakers of the late Māori queen, Te Atairangikaahu.
Glenda Taituha-Toka is a Waikato-Tainui executive member.
A stream of visitors viewed artworks and musical performances on display at ArtBeat at Ōtorohanga Museum over the weekend.
Lead organiser Rebecca Dowman-Ngapo said the two-day festival delivered a huge variety of content generated by artists aged eight-to-80.
hunt prizes.”
The tour de force was the collection of photographs given to Ōtorohanga by Richard and Rive Wallace, who had been professional photographers in town since 1962.
given to his town, “but also for their support and kindness shown to me and so many others who live here”.
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“We had a every kind of medium from a 16-year-old sketch artist to 3D animators with an international following. We had musicians who ranged from a classically trained harpist to country singers and all these performers found our church auditorium a nice space to play in.”
On both Saturday and Sunday people who had come to support friends playing a favourite style of music decided to stay on to enjoy other acts. Some locals confessed it was their first visit to the museum.
Meanwhile, it was a voyage of discovery for the dedicated art buffs in the audiences.
“So many told me they hadn’t comprehended the talent present in our district, particularly among students at the college,” Dowman-Ngapo said.
“The festival had a nice friendly and laid-back vibe and so many artists made connections with other artists. The weather was great, Riding for the Disabled fed us hotdogs and waffles and outside you could hear that lovely “tap, tap, tap” of the carvers in action.
“Many loved seeing kids’ art up in the main street. Participating shops were generous with window space and by donating scavenger
The couple’s many friends attended a keynote speech by Richard in the church on Saturday night, where Mayor Max Baxter ackowledged Richard Wallace had been an outspoken critic of the council at times.
But he personally thanked the couple, not only for the 1.5 million negatives they had
Richard’s speech described the era of chemical photography, also highlighting some of his favourite photographers and how they had all used light to achieve excellence. His career included photographing the Queen when she visited her friends Don and June Ferguson at Ōtorohanga farm in 1990, “but tonight with some of our friends here has to be the highlight”.
Here’s looking at you: Alex Court draws a charicature of Ross Flintoff
Harpist Glenys George performs.
Richard Wallace’s speech was one of ther Artbeat highlights.
Iraia Peni from Levin studies Richard Wallace’s photos.
Pastel artists Rita Shaw is from Ōtorohanga.
Sarah Snookes, Linda Baines and Wendy Roberts looked after the sausage sizzle.
Side show in Ohura
Weeks after a changing of the guard in Ohura, residents have turned out in force to elect another A and P committee. Paul Charman was there to watch.
The Ohura A and P show saga has taken another twist – with residents staging a coup to nullify the votes at a meeting 12 weeks ago.
More than 100 members of the town’s show society met where - Matiere Hall? last Thursday to elect a new committee to run the next show on February 15.
On August 20 the society’s annual meeting saw Nihoniho resident Mathew one t or two? We have both Howe installed as president, and his father Les Howe as vice president.
The new committee announced the annual Ohura Show would move from February to March.
Neither were present last week when Ruapehu District Council’s TaumarunuiŌhura community board member Luke Pepper was in the chair.
A series of unanimous votes were passed to unseat Matthew one t or 2?
Howe and Les Howe and two committee members, Maria Howe and Anthony Muraahi.
The original meeting resulted in ill feeling and accusations that supporters of the committee elected on that night had paid subs to join the society the day before.
It was claimed whanau members came from
Auckland, Petone and New Plymouth to influence the vote after being joined as members
The new administration changed locks on the gate into the showgrounds, and Matthew Howe (one t or 2) told the previous committee they would be better off to work in partnership with them.
He said the 3.2ha showgrounds could be claimed by an Iwi group from Taumarunui, and this group would have no real interest in continuing to run the show.
Howe said they intended to continue running the show, but he also added to the debate by raising questions about who owned the showground land.
The News has viewed a transcript of the August meeting but efforts to get comments from Howe have been unsuccessful.
Dyson said a public meeting on October 20 to determine what the community wanted provided a mandate for last week’s meeting.
“We didn’t just take it on ourselves to decide what was happening. The 85 people present at that [October 20] meeting made it clear they wanted the show committee to stick to organising the event, rather than getting involved in politics,” she said.
“Since then, we have received a lot of support from people of various backgrounds in this area and further afield and a large number joined the society so that they could have a vote.”
Dyson said controversy had reignited interest in the show, which had run since 1911. Previously it had been hard to find sufficient committee members to organise the event.
She said legal advice had been taken.
“There are really specific legal steps that would have had to have been taken if they (the previous committee) wanted to change our constitution –but they did not take them. We were advised of this by a solicitors’ firm that deals
with incorporated societies, meetings and constitutions to do what we have done.”
She said the new committee had acted in accordance with the 1908 A and P Act.
The Society had commitments because it’s show is on the national shearing circuit “and the third Saturday of February is our slot”.
“All this has cut into the time we have to organise the event but in view of the support we have received we’ve decided the show must go on.”
A check on the Royal A and P Society website and Shearing Sports New Zealand calendar this week failed to find a listing for the Ohura show.
The committee voted in last Thursday was President Susan Dyson, vice president Mike Marshall, treasurer Linda Mackinder, auditors Jenny Etherington and Kristine Carmichael, committee, Amy Coburn, Stu Bunn, Simon Groskinski, Fiona Gemmell, Chris Brears and Merv Mason.
Fighting on two fronts
Ohura’s show stoush has also been played out on social media.
Just as there are now two committees claiming authority, there are also two Facebook pages with the same name – Ohura A P H & I Show. The original has 1000 followers, new, at last check, one.
In a post to the original show Facebook site, Rex McDonald suggested the family involved in the August election should take up their grievances with the Crown and others and “not be trying to take it out in the guise of a new society”.
He said he was the grandson of Frederick John McDonald, the first settler to own the land that is now the showgrounds and “I am very upset to hear that a local family is making claims that this land was stolen from them, that they have never received payment for it, and are trying to take it back in a deceitful way”.
His post, liked by 70 people, was challenged by Les Howe who said he had gone to the meeting to join the show, stop an iwi trust from claiming reserve land “to grow our community in Nihoniho”.
But those comments drew a strong rebuke and allegations that they were planning to remove the show buildings and provide accommodation on the land for whanau.
Susan Dyson was elected society president at the meeting.
The votes were unanimous.
We belong together
By Frances Rawlings
The issue of district amalgamations is a topic of consideration by our local councils.
It has always amazed me that, on the last round of amalgamations, Te Awamutu and Cambridge were put together, yet Waitomo and Ōtorohanga, districts of far smaller populations and in closer proximity to each other, were not. It appeared to lack logic.
While the mayor of Waitomo considers it a “no brainer”, having the potential to save ratepayers millions of dollars annually through the two districts joining up, the mayor of Otorohanga maintains there is “no appetite within the district for amalgamation at present”.
Think of the savings through having one chief executive, a single regulatory service, one Long Term Plan, one District Plan. Administration could be split between the two key towns, utilising the best expertise available.
In many respects, the two districts belong together, encompassing as they do, the uniquely historical and geographically different Northern King Country, home of the proud Maniapoto Iwi, its headquarters Te Tokanganui-a-noho at Te Kuiti.
Waitomo region is an icon of New Zealand tourism. While Waitomo District largely carries the costs of the infrastructure needed, Ōtorohanga reaps the larger portion of the benefits through its location.
Te Kuiti stands among the 60-plus motorhome friendly towns around the country. Ōtorohanga has not yet provided appropriate facilities to qualify, despite repeated requests from both the motorhome and business community and the offer from the New Zealand Motor Caravan Association to install and maintain a dump station at no cost to the Ōtorohanga District Council for the first five years.
Te Kuiti has a greater range of social amenities which many throughout both districts enjoy or utilise – The Les Munro complex – the social centre of the area, The Little Theatre, Te Kuiti Hospital and Medical Centre, which more Ōtorohanga people could benefit from. The tendency for Ōtorohanga Medical Centre to feed patients north can add time, cost and inconvenience to residents in some circumstances. Ōtorohanga utilises Te Kuiti’s Landfill for some of its waste and its infrastructure services.
Sporting facilities frequently serve both communities through competition and social interaction. Both communities have excellent sporting facilities, as with Waitomo Golf Course just over the Ōtorohanga border.
In many respects, the towns of Te Kuiti and Otorohanga complement each other. Where one tends to be weak, the other frequently compensates.
As a former owner of the local
paper, it was my brother Sam Craig who saw fit to amalgamate the two existing newspapers, the King Country Chronicle and the Otorohanga Times to become the Waitomo News and now the King Country News. The fierce parochialism existing between the two districts prompted a name harmonising the two entities to Waitomo News. This enabled economies of scale, thereby securing the survival of our local news service. Once it became a freebee, saturation coverage of the entire North King Country was possible.
The situation of amalgamating our two districts strikes me as not dissimilar. As the Te Kuiti Mayor has already stated, there would be significant savings in administration and expertise - which could be split or shared in line with making the most of existing personnel and facilities. A rating differential may be appropriate for a period of time. Community leadership and identity is important. If the mayor is elected from one district, the deputy should be from the other. Consideration and co-operation are the keys. In many respects, that is already happening.
We may not always agree with each other – but our districts are capable of working together. Is it therefore time to take the next step?
Treading water to one council?
By Chris Gardner
Forming a multi councilcontrolled organisation for water services is the first step to creating a unitary authority in the Waikato.
That’s the view of Waipā District Council Cambridge Ward member Mike Pettit (pictured right) who shared his views in a November 20 workshop on a council-controlled authority Heads of Agreement document being drawn up for the Waikato Mayoral Forum.
Waipā District Council agreed, on Tuesday, to enter into the Heads of Agreement relating to Waikato Water Done Well with other councils in the region.
Ōtorohanga, Waitomo, Taupō, South Waikato, Matamata Piako, Hauraki and Thames-Coromandel district councils are exploring codesigning an asset-owning councilcontrolled organisation to manage water and wastewater. Waikato District Council and Hamilton City Council are creating their own council-controlled organisation.
“This is the start of one region, one council, one mayor, here we go” Pettit said in the workshop.
“Just putting it out there. This is the seed.”
The Waikato Chamber of Commerce has been among organisations to debate the creation of a unitary authority to save ratepayers’ money. Pettit told The News “it’s a
discussion that I think is worth having”.
“It’s not a here and now thing. This whole councilcontrolled organisation discussion needs to happen first. After that’s done, sometime at the end of next year, it would be good if we can get together and start a discussion on the benefits, or otherwise, of a unitary authority.”
Ōtorohanga mayor Max Baxter told The News “no decisions have been made yet, but it probably will head towards a Waikato councilcontrolled organisation”.
Kāhu Manawa managing director Vaughan Payne, who provides management services to local government, is leading Water Done Well on behalf of the Waikato Mayoral Forum and local iwi chairs.
“There are some challenges, but also so many really significant opportunities,” Payne said of council collaboration. “This is a piece of work that is pretty central to this region. It’s not easy to make waters work. It just makes sense to have local ownership.”
The organisation would be governed by a board with delegated authority with input from a shareholders’ forum. Non tradeable shares would be apportioned by the number of connections.
Guides back in black
By Paul Charman
Black Water Rafting guides who have worked at Waitomo from 1987 through to the present are expected at the launch of a book on the history of the activity on Saturday.
The launch, to be held at Waitomo Caves Museum, will celebrate the third text written by Waitomo resident and author Van Watson.
It’s a lengthy work of over 400 pages which Watson says will be appreciated by many of the young people he trained up during his career as a tourism operator.
“Pictures are worth thousands of words in my view; they’re the best way to relate to the young people in our industry, who are drawn to a hands-on role like guiding rather than a desk job. However, many I initially trained as rafting guides went on to make their mark in other parts of our tourism industry, and well beyond it too.”
The text of Watson’s book provides insights into how adventure tourism strives to be real enough to provide an authentic experience while maintaining safety and a fun atmosphere.
“It was an immense privilege to be operations manager at Black Water Rafting, to work with such a band of competent and fun-loving guides with high energy levels and great senses of humour. Black Water Rafting was always about having fun in the adventure setting. Having a pool of senior staff who could train and mentor new guides meant the
business only ever needed about 20 per cent new guides coming online each year.
“It takes about a year for a ‘ground zero’ to get up to speed enough to relax and join in the fun with the clients. Once they’ve absorbed a list of ‘must does’ like, ‘manage the waterfall’ and ‘remember client checks on the abseil platform’, they can relax and get on with the show.”
Now aged in his early 70s, Watson has had a lifetime of adventure behind him.
He has been caving from his teenage years and his first book ‘The Search for the Deepest Hole in the World’ told of hiking into the New Guinea highlands to discover and descend into the deepest cave in the Sothern Hemisphere.
Watson’s stories from his early years are fascinating for the shoestring budgets and cobbled together equipment he and his friends used.
He went from working for a mineral exploration company in PNG and obtaining his helicopter pilot’s licence. He survived just under a year in this vocation during the deer recovery era. Watson walked away from flying choppers after realising a percentage of pilots were likely to be killed or injured in crashes, no matter how well trained or careful, and no matter how well maintained their aircraft.
“This basic understanding of the correlation between risk management, statistics and unfortunate circumstance was a great background for working in adventure
After his time in PNG he and wife Jan trapped possums back home in New Zealand and then “roughed it” through Asia and Africa.
Watson’s second book, “Two Deckchairs in a Sack” relates their epic overland journey through the Sahara Desert and African jungles.
“After so much adventure and returning to New Zealand with two children, settling in a place like Waitomo just as Black Water
Rafting was getting going was a natural fit. It’s been a privilege to be part of adventure tourism in its developing years – we’ve loved every minute.”
Watson also helped establish the railcart rides for “Forgotten World Adventures”, spending four years shepherding tourists on the disused Stratford–Okahukura railway line. Today he and Jan live at Waitomo but part of their year is spent gold mining in Alaska and exploring that state’s famous wilderness.
Author Van Watson has had a lifetime of adventure behind him. tourism.”
Val presses the rewind button
By Viv Posselt
Almost everything about Sunday’s book launch at Ōhaupō School of Valerie Millington’s ‘Ellen of Denniston’ was intended to deliver a sense of time and place.
And deliver it did, in spades.
The hall, creaking with some 200 visitors, had been decorated to within an inch of its life in deference to the challenging, often gloomy environment that was, back in the day, the coal mining township of Denniston on the South Island’s west coast. Lights were dimmed and windows blacked out.
The book is a biography of Val Millington’s mother Ellen and, said the author, a testimony to her strength and resilience.
“I always wanted mum to write a book,” she told guests, “but she would always say, ‘I’m far too
joyful in the present to push the rewind button’. I used to think a lot about my mother’s mental health, but where other people saw the ugly rock face that dominated the area, she would see miniature fir trees in the cracks. She saw lichen like skeins of wool.”
The book chronicles Ellen’s life… a childhood tested by poverty, then an accident at 17 that resulted in three years in hospital and 30 operations. Her return to Denniston as the ‘disabled girl’ created different challenges, but a new life, love and family eventually found her.
Ellen moved to Ōhaupō with husband Les and their children. It was there she received accolades for her role in developing the National Fieldays at Mystery Creek, turning the event into a multi-million-dollar export earner. The book is said to
be as much about her story and that of New Zealand at the time, as it is about the way Ellen endured and rose through her challenges.
Guests at the launch included Sir William and Lady Judi Gallagher who supported the book’s production. Lady Judi described
Ellen as a brave woman who overcame many obstacles in her life.
“I hope it will show how even the most difficult situations can be overcome,” she said.
The event was emceed by former Hamilton mayor and regional council chair Russ Rimmington who reminisced through his years of knowing Millington, recalling her earlier media days and her success in pushing through a wall of deep tradition to become chief executive of NZ National Fieldays.
Guests heard that Millington first started the book some seven years ago. She was waylaid, however, by writing a book charting the history of the district and of Ōhaupō School’s 150 years. In 1996, she penned a book marking the history of European settlement in Ōhaupō, titled ‘Winds of Change’.
Kitchens & Joinery
King Country Kitchens
Val Middleton, front, with guests Sir William and Lady Judi Gallagher, left, and Russ and Edwina Rimmington. Photo: Viv Posselt
Budget blowouts unlikely
By Chris Gardner
North King Country councils are unlikely to cop unexpected costs in the wake of the Government’s Three Waters reforms, officials say.
Waipā District Council revealed cost of upgrading Te Awamutu Wastewater Treatment Plant had more than doubled from $19 million to $48 million earlier in the month and it was adding a $9 million wastewater reticulation upgrade for Leamington to its plans.
“I can’t put my hand on my heart and say it won’t happen here, but there’s nothing like that in the foreseeable future,” said Ōtorohanga District Council chief executive Tanya Winter.”
Speaking on Friday after a multi-day Local Government New Zealand rural and provincial sector meeting in Wellington, Ōtorohanga district mayor Max Baxter said: “There’s nothing that we can see in the immediate or mid term that will cause a budget blow out. We think we are in a very good space.”
Waitomo district mayor John Robertson told a similar story for his district.
“I am totally confident in the forecast that Waitomo District Council has of Three
Waters,” Robertson said. “There’s no blowouts.”
Ōtorohanga District Council, whose annual operational expenditure is about $25 million, borrowed about $10 million in 2021 to upgrade the Ōtorohanga Water Treatment Plant, Ōtorohanga Wastewater Plant and Kawhia Water Treatment Plant over three years.
“Our 2021 Long Term Plan accelerated 10 years of capital upgrades in three years,” Winter said. “We needed to give it a nudge.”
The “resilience work”, as she called it, was “pretty technical”.
“We are really pleased that we did that and invested that money.”
Waitomo District Council is in a very similar position, according to Robertson.
“Some councils have got the huge pressures of growth,” he said.
“Councils like ours don’t have that. We are in quite a different environment.”
Waitomo district’s population was 10,050 in June 2024, according to Statistics New Zealand, up from 8,907 in 2013. Comparatively, Ōtorohanga’s population grew to 10,900 from 9,138 over the same period.
Roberston said Waitomo
District Council had spent about $10 million building a new sewage system in Te Kūiti in 2013 and $8 million building a new water plant in 2018. The council has budgeted $8 million for a new reservoir and water pipes in the town.
Ōtorohanga and Waitomo district councils are exploring co-designing an assetowning council-controlled organisation to manage water and wastewater with Hauraki, Matamata Piako, Thames-Coromandel, South Waikato, Taupō and Waipā district councils. Hamilton City Council and Waikato District Council are creating their own council-controlled organisation.
“No decisions have been made yet, but it probably will head towards a Waikato council-controlled organisation,” Baxter said.
Reach a targeted rural and lifestyle audience each month by advertising your business in King Country Farmer: featured inside the King Country News as its own
CELEBRATE THE SEASON WITH YOUR STAFF THIS CHRISTMAS
Bu et and set menu options available for larger groups. Please phone stoked for further details. To insure you don’t miss out bookings required
John Roberston
Positively PIOPIO
on for wool drives Piopio doyen
Strawberry fields forever
One of the district’s larger growers, Piopio Berry Orchard, is expecting another busy holiday season serving the travelling public on SH3.
The 13ha property just south of Piopio employs 14 staff in its shop and a total of 100 when seasonal staff are added into the equation. Staff include between four and five university students who work on a daily basis.
With the exception of a small amount of produce sent to Te Kūiti New World and some New Plymouth outlets, most of the strawberries, blueberries, raspberries and asparagus grown on the property is sold from the store. As well as produce, frozen and fresh, the operations berry ice creams and smoothies have a cult following with members of the travelling public.
Kapa haka at Keas
“The orchard is a substantial operation today but what you see is all thanks to the vision of its founders Angela and Mike Roy,” shop manager Jessie Loomans said.
“Angela and Mike started out 30 years ago with just a small fruit and vegetable shop specialising in strawberries and blueberries. What they’ve achieved is nothing short or remarkable when you think about it.”
Kayla Barney of Piopio picks strawberries grown outside.
Students from the Piopio College kapa haka roopu recently visited Keas Early Learning Centre to entertain the children there. Centre owner and director Stephanie Brough (right) said the children learned a waitata (Haere mai Ki Maniapoto) with the actions; a haka (Toto wera) and sang Tutira Mai for the visitors. College students pictured in their kapa haka uniforms, from left, back row were Ryshard Tapara, Trey Mason, Caelym James. Front row, Putiputi Barnsdall, Shaliyqh Kemp, Miriama Newton.
CALL OUTS
Te Kūiti
November 22: at 12.53pm the brigade was called out to assist St John at Mahoenui. At 10.05pm the brigade was called to a truck fire on SH3 at the Eight Mile Junction. The truck’s bearings had caught fire but the driver managed to put the fire out before serious damage was done. The brigade cooled down the truck’s rims and wheels.
November 24: At 6.06am the brigade was called out after a car collided with a power pole at Te Kumi. Fire fighters cared for a motorist injured in the crash and did scene protection. The injured person was taken to Te Kūiti Hospital by ambulance. At 2.52 an automatic
Tuning up
alarm activated at Te Kūiti Primary School but no cause could be found.
November 26: At 9.29am smoke was reported coming from the Waitomo Council landfill in Williams St. The brigade put out some small pockets of fire there.
Ōtorohanga
November 22: At 10.05pm the brigade’s tanker was called to assist the Te Kūiti and Piopio brigades at the scene of the truck fire near the Eight Mile Junction. However, the crew from Ōtorohanga was turned-around before it got to the scene of the crash.
November 24: At 9.47am the brigade assisted St John at a medical callout in Tutaenui Rd. Later, at 11.36am, the brigade was called to a rubbish fire on Ormsby Crescent but no action was required.
Thirty adults and over 20 tamariki - including five new members - are preparing for this year’s Carols in the Caves Concerts. For most members, some repertoire is already familiar from previous years. The Waitomo Caves Choir can this year boast six tenors and basses. Community choirs traditionally struggle with a shortage of male, and in particular tenor voices. The programme – running from December 6 to 8 - this year includes pieces sung in five different languages.
Amio
NOVEMBER 2024 ISSUE
CELEBRATING TUIA RANGATAHI MYSTEEQ!
As we near the end of the wananga year for Mysteeq, it’s been a great time to reflect on her personal growth. Thank you so much to Mysteeq for all the smiles and giggles that lightened up the office. Mysteeq will not be a stranger too; we are sure she will be around for a while, whether running initiatives or joining in kaupapa in our community.
The Tuia Programme is all about building leadership and connection and seeing the incredible transformations in our rangatahi. We know the mātauranga Māori (knowledge) that Mysteeq has taken in will lead her to a path of philanthropy in community spaces.
Mayor Max Baxter has proudly watched the growth of each rangatahi he has mentored over the years and keeps in touch with them regularly. His contribution and commitment to this kaupapa has been the pillar for rangatahi in our district.
Read more at: engage.otodc.govt.nz/tuia-rangatahi
ON THE ROAD TO A SAFER COMMUNITY
STAY IN THE DRIVER’S SEAT AND KEEP UP TO DATE WITH OUR ROADS!
Check out our website to find details about our roads and streets including maintenance, how to report issues, traffic management, stock crossing permits, vehicle crossings, temporary road closures and more. www.otodc.govt.nz/ council-services/roads-and-streets
SAFETY FIRST
Child car restraint checks
Our road safety team will be gearing up to make sure you and your tamariki are safe this summer. Drop in to see our team who can help or give advice if you need.
Dates: Dec 3rd and 10th
Time: 9.30-11.30 & 12.30-2.30 Both days
Where: Countdown (small carpark out front)
Fatigue Stop
Planning to travel to meet whanau and family? Stay fuelled and energised by stopping regularly over your travels to ‘Take a break’.
Our team will be setting up to support drivers to take a break in our district.
Date: Dec 21st
Time: 10am-2pm
Where: Kiokio School carpark
LIBRARY
Did you know that the library offer way more than just books?
See below some of the amazing programmes and spaces you can join to learn new skills.
RAUMATI TOA SUMMER LEGENDS SUMMER READING
Something exciting and a little bit different is happening over the summer months from 2nd December 2024 to 31st March 2025.
Open for 0-18 years, you can join the latest craze and collect your very own set of Taniwha Cards with Waitomo and Ōtorohanga District Libraries. Register now and be part of our LEGENDARY summer adventure!
There will lots of ways you can collect cards, from attending library events, sharing your summer reads with the library staff, to finding Taniwha rocks hiding in our local parks and reserves – can you find them all and collect a whole set of summer legend taniwha cards?
BLACK OUT POETRY COMPETITION
A Black Out Poetry Competition is running for the teenagers of the Ōtorohanga District. This a chance for rangatahi to get creative over the summer break and be into win a Prezzy Card – 1st, 2nd, 3rd places. It is open to all high school students. Entries close 24th January 2025. Want to know more? Scan the QR code here:
CHRISTMAS CRAFTS
Before Santa arrives, the libraries are running a fun Christmas Crafts session open to tamariki of all ages. Make a variety of Christmas decorations for your tree or give to family and friends. Before you watch the Kāwhia Parade on Wednesday 18th December pop down to the Community Hall from 1.30-3.00pm.
Friday 20th December
Come to the Ōtorohanga Library from 10.30am11.30am. This event will also earn you a card in our Raumati Toa Summer Legends programme.
APPY HOUR!
Free workshops to learn how to use the apps the library has.
11 December
10 – 11am Beanstack - earn badges, start your reading streak and be in to win amazing prizes!
1 – 2pm Beamafilm - a streaming service for film lovers to enjoy the comfort of your own home. Please register at the Ōtorohanga Library 07 873 7175 or library@otodc.govt.nz
Questions / Registrations?
Phone 07 873 7175 | Email library@otodc.govt.nz
TE KAWAU MAARO O MANIAPOTO HUI-AA-IWI POP-UP SUCCESS!
A huge thank you to everyone who visited our Pop-Up Council and Civil Defence tents over Labour Weekend, at Te Kawau Maaro O Maniapoto Hui-aa-iwi in Te Kūiti! We loved chatting with so many of you, answering questions, and connecting with whanau and tamariki. It was a fantastic weekend thanks to YOU!
Big shoutout to our team and our awesome partners from Waitomo District Council and Waipā District Council for helping to make this event happen. Ōtorohanga Māori Ward Councillor Jaimee Tamaki expressed how “amazing” it was, to have “councils available for whanau to engage with and learn how to communicate with councils” in the future. She mentioned how this created an environment that allowed people to feel comfortable to ask questions and/or ask how they can make a change.
For all our talented artists who entered the Colouring Competition, we had over 80 enter across 2 days and have contacted the 8 winners. – prizes have been posted, and you should have received yours by now! We hope you enjoy them and keep up the amazing creativity! We’re looking forward to our next Pop-Up adventure –stay tuned, and don’t forget to check out more about the Pop-Up Council: engage.otodc.govt.nz/pop-up-council
HOLIDAY HOURS:
Operating hours over the holiday period
Ōtorohanga District Council Office
Monday 23rd – 9am to 4pm
Tuesday 24th – 9am to 12pm 25th to 5th Jan 2025 - CLOSED Normal hours resume Monday 6 January.
EMERGENCIES CAN HAPPEN ANYTIME, ANYWHERE - BE PREPARED THIS SUMMER
Emergencies can happen anytime, anywhere –earthquakes, floods, tsunami, fire, and other hazards can often occur without warning - the best thing you can do this summer is make sure you are prepared.
MAKE A PLAN
Being prepared for an emergency starts at home – you and your whānau/family can begin by filling out a household plan.
• View a template for a household plan: getready.govt.nz
IN THE EVENT OF AN EMERGENCY:
• Check in with others in your community and ensure your pets are safe
• If you or your neighbours are at immediate risk, don’t wait to be told – go to the nearest safe place
• Head to waikatocivildefence.govt.nz/our-region and continually check for updates
• Tune into the radio station local to your area –waikatocivildefence.govt.nz/in-an-emergency/radiofrequencies
• Follow Waikato Civil Defence on social mediawww.facebook.com/WaikatoCivilDefence
• Download the ANTENNO mobile app. If Civil Defence is activated and an emergency declared, Council’s plan is to push out Civil Defence messages through the ANTENNO app, and our council Facebook page.
• Download Antenno here - www.otodc.govt.nz/council/ download-antenno
• Follow Ōtorohanga District Council on Facebook herefacebook.com/OtorohangaDistrictCouncil
• Please note - while these are useful communication tools, they will only work if internet services are not disrupted.
KĀWHIA WATER
WATER CONSERVATION AND RESTRICTIONS
As we head into what is predicted to be hot summer, with a high number of visitors to our district, it’s important we all be conscious of our water use - water restrictions help everyone play their part. You will be notified of a change in water restriction level by updates to our website, social media and the indication arrow on the physical sign in Kāwhia township will be pointing to the current restriction level. The details of our water restriction levels are outlined below:
NO RESTRICTION (GREEN)
No water restriction in place, but we ask that you please be mindful of water consumption as it is a limited resource and there needs to be enough to go around for everyone.
LEVEL 1 – WATER CONSERVATION USE WATER WISELY (BLUE)
Sprinklers between 6-8am and 6-8pm.
Hand-held hosing is allowed anytime.
Water saving tips:
• Always use a twist or trigger nozzle when using your hose.
• Use a timer with your sprinkler or irrigation system and be mindful where you position it so that you are watering plants, not paved areas.
• Use a cover on permanent and portable pools to prevent evaporation and use appropriate chemicals to keep the water fresh.
• Use a broom and/or bucket to clean hard surfaces such as footpaths and driveways.
• Wash your car/boat/caravan on an area of lawn.
• Shorten your shower.
• Put a bucket in the shower while you’re waiting for the water to warm up, and use the water you catch for watering plants, flushing the toilet or cleaning.
• Use water from your rain water tank or grey water wherever possible.
LEVEL 2 - WATER RESTRICTION
REDUCE NON-ESSENTIAL WATER USE (YELLOW)
Use sprinklers on alternate days between 6-8am and 6-8pm (e.g. even street numbers on even days; odd street numbers on odd days).
Hand held hosing is allowed at any time.
LEVEL 3 - WATER RESTRICTION REDUCE YOUR WATER USE IMMEDIATELY (ORANGE)
No sprinklers allowed.
Hand-held hosing only.
Don’t use Council water supply to fill or top up your pools - including portable and paddling pools. Use a broom instead of water to clean hard surfaces such as footpaths and driveways.
Avoid using water to wash windows, buildings, cars and boats (boat motors may be flushed out).
LEVEL 4 - WATER RESTRICTION ESSENTIAL WATER USE ONLY (RED)
Essential water use means that you may use water for drinking, food preparation, hygiene and sanitary purposes - includes washing clothes and taking showers.
Essential use outside means water may be used for activities like firefighting and emergency clean ups. There is a complete ban on any outdoor water useincludes use of sprinklers, hoses, drip lines, irrigation systems, water toys like slip n’ slides.
No filling of swimming pools - includes portable or paddling pools.
No outdoor cleaning - cars, property and boats (boat motors may be flushed out).
The only permitted way to water your garden at water restriction level 4 is to use collected rain water and/or to use greywater from inside your home.
If you notice a water leak or someone wasting water in your street, please contact us straight away on 07 873 4000 (24 hours).
HOW TO CHECK FOR A LEAK
• Turn all taps off inside the house.
• Make sure all outside taps are turned off.
• Locate your water meter and check the dial. This should not be moving.
THINK YOU HAVE A SLOW LEAK?
Do a night reading or leave all taps off for a few hours. Ensure no water is used including toilets.
• Read your water meter last thing at night.
• Re-read the water meter first thing in the morning.
If the water meter has moved during the night it is likely you have a leak.
SPOTLIGHT ON OTOROHANGA
The store with everything
The Budget Warehouse, found at 19 Tuhoro St, Otorohanga, is setting a new standard for local shopping, o ering a popular and diverse range of products similar to the main big brand stores elsewhere.
Whether you’re looking for home essentials, kitchen gadgets, or the latest electronics, The Budget Warehouse has it all.
THE BUDGET WAREHOUSE
Health without surgical intervention
Dr Scott Mouat opened King Country Chiropractic at 27a Maniapoto St in Otorohanga in 2008.
“Whether you are healthy and want to ensure you maintain your current state of wellness, or you are feeling sore or unwell, we can help you, from children to the elderly,” Scott says.
All about your crowning glory
Leanne Massey from Little Scissors at 50 Maniapoto St In Otorohanga knows all about keeping your crowning glory. She’s owned the business for the past 23 years – 24 next monthher meticulous attention to detail is well known across the region. Little Scissors takes care of all hair needs from perms, sets, cuts and colours, for men, women and children.
Award winning orist
Iona van der Pasch owner of Moss & Co orists at 31 Maniapoto St in Otorohanga for the past ve years, is an award winning orist with 26 years’ experience in providing customers with unique designs suited speci cally to their requirements. From wedding designs to dried oral arrangements, if you want your owers to say everything, Moss & Co is a great place to go.
Dr. Scott Mouat (B.Chiro) Chiropractor
Dr. Alana Sherman (B. Chiro) Chiropractor
GARDENING
FOR BLOOMING BEAUTIES AND PLANTS THAT THRIVE
Christmas bounty from the garden
Their peppery bite will add a refreshing crunch to any festive salad or serve as a tangy garnish for meats.
Not to late to grow some yummy homegrown freshness for your Christmas menu
As this year is speedily coming to an end and Christmas and the holiday season just weeks away its not to late to get some things in the garden that will be ready just in time for the holiday season.
With the soil being warm, increasing sunlight make the perfect conditions for many fast-growing vegetables, and best of all they are all easy to grow.
My 4 non-fail recommendations would be:
Salad greens – Lettuce, rocket, spinach, and other leafy greens are perfect for sowing now. They grow quickly, often maturing within 4-6 weeks, meaning you can expect fresh, vibrant salads for your Christmas table.
Opt for heat - tolerant varieties like butterhead or mesclun, which thrive in the warmer conditions of late spring and early summer.
Radishes: Radishes are one of the fastest-growing crops, with some varieties maturing in just 3-4 weeks.
They do well in cooler soils, but at this time of year, they’ll thrive with the warmth.
Herbs: Fresh herbs are a key ingredient in summer dishes, and November is an ideal time to plant them.
Basil, parsley, coriander, and mint are all quick to establish in the garden.
Many herbs like basil grow rapidly and can be harvested in a few short weeks, so you can add fresh, aromatic flavours to your holiday meals.
Tomatoes: While tomatoes may take a little longer to mature, late November is a great time to plant heat - loving varieties like cherry or small plum tomatoes. These will thrive in the summer warmth and, with some care, will yield juicy, vibrant fruit by Christmas.
Water your garden at night as it helps prevent water evaporation caused by the sun’s heat during the day.
Night time watering allows the moisture to soak deep into the soil, giving your plants lots of time to absorb the water before the heat of the next day.
This reduces stress on your plants and promotes healthy root development.
5. Regarding, in connection with (7) 6. Garden shears (9) 7. Fill to satisfaction (4) 8. Appear (11) 12. French pastry (9) 15. Highly-strung (7) 16. Superior (6) 19. Talk pompously (5) 20. Surety (4) 23. Division of a play (3)
PROPERTY YOUR REAL ESTATE GUIDE TO THE KING COUNTRY
Easy Living!
Welcome to this beautifully presented 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom family home, nestled in the heart of Te Kuiti. With a generous land area of 694 sqm and a well-designed building area of 121 sqm, this property offers the perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and low maintenance.
The open-plan kitchen and dining area with its polished floors create a warm and inviting atmosphere, perfect for family gatherings and entertaining friends. The open plan lounge area is designed for relaxation, featuring a wood burner and ample natural light. The living area flows out onto the large partly covered deck for even better living. The kitchen is spacious and well equipped with storage. The separate laundry keeps clutter out of the house. The master bedroom has an ensuite and a convenient walk-in wardrobe. The other bedrooms have all built in wardrobes and share a bathroom down the hallway. Stay comfortable no matter the season with insulation in
the ceiling, some walls, and floor, along with a heat pump and HRV system.
Step outside to your fully fenced backyard, perfect for kids and pets to play safely. The decking/patio area is ideal for alfresco dining or simply soaking up the sun in your private urban oasis.
This property is ideally situated close to parks, shops and schools, making it perfect for families and professionals alike.
The property includes a single garage and additional carport with off-street parking, a garden shed for extra storage, a nearly completed woodshed. The exterior is in excellent condition both inside and out, featuring weatherboard timber exterior and a colored steel roof.
This charming low-maintenance home is ready for you to move in and make it your own.
For more information or to arrange a private viewing, contact Antonia today
you all the way
LOCATION | 24A Edward Street, Te Kūiti
LAND | 694m2
HOUSE | 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 toilets, 1 garage
24 onsite car parks + ample parking in the surrounding streets
90% NBS
1,181sqm land area, more or less
Commercial zoned under the Otorohanga District Council
Not o en comes a property onto the market of this caliber. Located on the main road in Otorohanga, 128-130 Maniapoto Street. This quality building o ers multiple options for tenants and or owners alike. Good o ices, kitchen, bathrooms, meeting rooms and a fully tar-sealed 24 car park. Nearby neighbours include Otorohanga Agri Machinery, Edmonds Judd, McKenzie Strawbridge, Prescott Toyota, Stihl, Otorohonda, Countdown, McDonald's, Advantage Tyres, Subway, and many other local shops and businesses.
This property is in excellent condition and a must see for investors and or tenants. Call Antonia today to arrange a viewing.
2.00– 2.30pm 249 Mutu Street By Neg 3 3 blueribbonharcourts.co.nz/TA23656
2.00 - 2.30pm 229 Young Street $1,195,000 3 2 blueribbonharcourts.co.nz/TA23623
2.00 - 2.30pm 383 Taylor Avenue Deadline 5 2 blueribbonharcourts.co.nz/TA23727
2.15 - 2.45pm 94 Princess Street By Neg 6 2 blueribbonharcourts.co.nz/TA23689
2.45
Ōtorohanga sections (sizes are approximate)
3 Honikiwi Road, Otorohanga, 5736sqm flat land, power to gate, STT. Phone John $420,000
9 Sunset Close, Otorohanga, 750sqm in popular Westridge. Phone Lorraine or John $219,000 163 Old Te Kuiti Road, Lots 1 & 4, 5517-8932sqm, easy covenants. Phone Lorraine From $250,000ea Lot 1, 627 Waitomo Valley Road, Otorohanga, 8105sqm rural lifestyle section. Phone Julie $370,000 Lots 90-108 Harpers Avenue, 486sqm to 962sqm, Westridge II subdivision. Phone John From $220,000ea 576C Mangawhero Road, Otorohanga, 1ha, fenced, sensible covenants. Ph Noldy Offers over $385,000
Te Kūiti sections (sizes are approximate)
5 Robin Azariah Place, Te Kuiti, 906sqm, quiet neighbourhood. Phone Buzz. Offers over $199,000 54A Ailsa Street (Lot 1), Te Kuiti, 2159sqm, end of a cul de sac, STT. Phone Buzz By Negotiation 54A Ailsa Street (Lot 2), Te Kuiti, 1707sqm, end of a cul de sac, STT. Phone
By
10 Robin Azariah Place, Te Kuiti, 600sqm level section. Phone Buzz $239.000 Other sections (sizes are approximate)
71 Hone Street, Kawhia, 1012sqm, FREEHOLD, short
171 Ngahape Road, Te Kawa, 5001sqm. Phone Cherie
0 Raglan Road, Kawhia, 2648sqm
Sun-kissed rural retreat awaits!
Sit on the deck and soak up the sunshine pouring in! Welcome to this stunningly renovated 1910s three-bedroom dwelling, perfectly blending character and modern comforts.
Enjoy:
• Renovated interior with fresh wallpaper, paint, and carpet
• Expansive rural views across farmland from the comfort of your home
• Attached sleepout with garage, fully painted and carpeted, perfect for guests or a home office
• Ample off-street parking and a spacious workshop for vehicles or machinery
Piopio 13 Pukeiti Road
Kuiti
Te Kuiti 48 Te Kumi Road
PIOPIO 450 Ngapaenga Road
Ruatawa
Located in a high rainfall area northwest of Piopio, this 334-hectare (more or less) property is a solid productive farm ideal for breeding and finishing quality stock. 2024 it wintered 1175 MA ewes, 440 ewe hoggets, 35 rams, 100 top R1 steers and 55 MA breeding cows. Proven for breeding and finishing operations. Laneway for easy stock movement. Dependable water supply - stream feed. A wellmaintained fertiliser history. A tidy five-bedroom house with an in-ground pool offers north-facing views of the property, balancing comfort with functionality.
pggwre.co.nz/TEK38880
$3.1M Plus GST (if any) VIEW 10.00-12.00pm Thursday 28 November & 5 December E
TIROA E TRUST
Wharekiri Station
Wharekiri Station is a 1080ha effective property situated in Benneydale, 35 minutes from Te Kūiti and part of the Tiroa E and Te Hape B group of farms covering 7500ha effective. Wharekiri Station winters 12,000 stock units made up of a high performing breeding ewe flock and beef finishing system.
GENERAL SHEPHERD
This role will be based around 30% stock work and 70% general work including stock / yard work, tractor work (including feeding out) and general farm maintenance. The successful applicant will have a good level of fitness and the skills to get on with the job either working alone or alongside the rest of the team.
We require you to be an excellent communicator and a strong team player with a sound awareness of H&S requirements for your role but above all else we are seeking someone energetic and keen. This position comes with competitive remuneration, a great work environment and good housing. Applicants for this position should have NZ residency or a valid NZ work visa and will be required to have a clear pre-employment drug test.
For further information please contact Jason Taitoko (07) 8784834, or email your CV to sharon@tiroatehape.maori.nz
Applications close Wednesday, December 3, 2024 TIROA E & TE HAPE B TRUSTS
TOY Christmas
We need your help with Christmas gifts for children in the Waitomo district
Wrap a gift, label whether it’s for a boy or a girl and their age group, then bring it to our Te Kūiti office in King St East.
• GIFTS MUST BE NEW
• PLEASE NO LOLLIES
For more information contact Michelle on 021 116 3711
DEADLINE Friday, December 13
RELIEF TRACTOR DRIVER
Feeding stock in sheds and general contracting type driving. Ph 027 478 1783
FARM Employment – weed sprayers required on large farm. Experienced in knapsack, truck reel and hose spraying. Ōtorohanga district txt or ph 027 478 1783.
NOW HIRING!
Museum and Accounts Manager
Part time / 24 hours per week
• Exude manaakitanga?
• Have exceptional organisation and administration skills?
• Thrive on supporting your team to achieve their best?
• Complete monthly accounts with your eyes closed?
Then this could be the opportunity for you!
We are looking for the ‘glue’ that will hold the diverse business strands of the Waitomo Caves Discovery Centre together, ensuring the organisation is operating effectively and meeting key service deliverables.
If you are a strong communicator and are passionate about helping a community organisation succeed, please contact the Secretary, wcmuseumboard@gmail.com for further information or an application pack.
Inframax Construction is a mid-sized civil construction and road maintenance company proudly providing excellent service results for public and private clients across the Central North Island. We connect our rural communities.
Based in our Te Kuiti office the HSQE Administrator reports into the HSQE Manager. Maintaining the administrative aspects of the HSQE team, this role is varied.
The main purpose is to support and co-ordinate the compliance and record keeping for the organisation from a HSQE perspective.
Key Responsibilities include:
• Manage sub-contractor preapproval process and ensure compliance
• Maintain all compliance records on HSQE management system
• Complete HSQE Employee inductions
• Coordinate and organise training and development, driver licensing and competency assessments for employees across the business
• Organise drug testing across the business, with option to qualify and complete tests after incidents
• Produce weekly compliance reporting for the business
• Maintaining communications for HSQE across the organisation
• Assist the HSQE team to drive the culture of “Safety First” within the business
The right candidate will be:
• An experienced administrator
• Well organised and highly motivated, a multi tasker able to juggle multiple priorities and a great communicator
• Experience in the health, safety quality and environment disciplines
• Superbly organised, process driven and manages from a best practice risk perspective
• Someone with a can do attitude – no task is too big or too small and no job is left incomplete
• IT savvy, the team might need help formatting a spreadsheet!
• Able to start today!
We offer an attractive remuneration package based on the individuals experience. To be considered for this position you must have a legal right to live and work in New Zealand. You will undergo pre employment medical and drug testing.
Email your CV and tell us why you’re the perfect fit for our team to nicki.raffills@inframax.co.nz by November 29, 2024.
PGG Wrightson Real Estate Limited, licensed under REAA 2008
grow the country
Situations Vacant
Situations Vacant
Waitomo District Council adopted its Annual Report 2023/2024 on 29 October 2024. The full Annual Report and a Summary Report is now available on our website www.waitomo.govt.nz
Hard copies of the Annual Report are also available from our Customer Service Centre on Rora Street, Te Kūiti or the Library on Taupiri Street. You can also request a copy by contacting our Customer Services Team on 0800 932 4357.
TE KŪITI ROTARY CLUB ANNUAL APPEAL FOR TE KŪITI FOODBANKS
Saturday, November 30 • 9am-1pm Collection ponts are outside •
Donations of non perishable food items and household supplied welcomed.
SEPTIC TANK CLEANING
Servicing
Meetings
Notice of upcoming meetings of Ōtorohanga District Council
Detailsofupcomingmeetingsof Ōtorohanga District Council can befoundatwww.otodc.govt.nz/ about-council/meetings
Tanya Winter Chief Executive www.otodc.govt.nz
RING SIZING AND JEWELLERY REPAIRS
Come and visit us The Jewellery Experts
Need
70 Maniapoto St, ŌTOROHANGA
07 873 7008
159 Rora St, TE KŪITI P 07 878 8913
www.dmjewellery.co.nz
Saturday, December 14, 2024
Tomotuki Marae Mangatea Rd, Te Kuiti 10am
Principal business of meeting
* Financial report
* Appointment of auditor
* General Business
Protecting taonga species from introduced predators in the Hauhungaroa Ranges.
Enquiries to Murray Kidd Falconer Ltd Ph 07 878 8145
Email debbie@mkf.co.nz Meetings
To protect kōkako and other taonga species from local extinction in the Hauhungaroa Ranges, the Department of Conservation’s (DOC) Maniapoto District Office and the Waikato Regional Council (WRC) intend to carry out predator control over 64,687 hectares of public conservation land and 18,688 hectares of private land (see map below). This is scheduled for the first clear weather window between 28 November to 12 August 2025.
Native wildlife and forests need protection
Pureora Forest Park is home to ancient native podocarp forests and remnant populations of native species that once flourished throughout New Zealand. Ancient totara – some of them thousands of years old - stand alongside rimu, kahikatea, matai and highly threatened plants. There are short-tailed bats (pekapeka) that pollinate dactylanthus plants, a unique occurrence not measured anywhere else. Kōkako and kākā were disappearing from Pureora a few decades ago, now it hosts some of the largest mainland populations in New Zealand. North Island robins, kakariki, kererū, pōpokotea/whitehead and ruru/ morepork also have healthy numbers here.
Why we are controlling introduced predators
Native species are fighting for survival due to predation from rats, stoats and possums. Without protection, we risk losing the unique natural heritage and biodiversity within the Hauhungaroa Range.
Through sustained predator control using 1080, there is a significant increase in breeding success for native birds, their food source is more abundant, and the forest canopy is healthier.
Our plan to protect native species
The safest and most effective method we have to control possums, rats and stoats over large rugged areas – like the Hauhungaro Range - is to use biodegradable cereal bait pellets containing 1080. This bait targets rodents and possums. Stoats are also controlled through secondary poisoning as they feed on the carcasses of the dead rodents.
Helicopters distribute bait pellets across the forest area along pre-determined and monitored flight paths using technology that enables accurate placement. This operation begins with the distribution of non-toxic pre-feed bait pellets (sandy coloured). This prepares possums and rodents to eat the toxic bait (dyed green) applied afterwards. Both baits are about 16 mm in diameter and cylindrical shaped.
Consultation and permissions
DOC has consulted with hapū, iwi and key stakeholders including landowners adjacent to the treatment area.
DOC is delegated authority by the Environmental Protection Agency to decide on applications for permission to use 1080 on land administered or managed by DOC. Permission has been granted for this operation. DOC has also received the required permission from the Ministry of Health. DOC ensures all legal and policy requirements are met, and any potential risks in the operation are managed.
Managing risk
1080 is poisonous to humans, domestic and game animals. In areas where the toxin has been applied, dogs are highly at risk until poisoned carcasses have disintegrated. This can take up to eight months, and potentially longer..
There will be warning signs placed at entrances to the treatment area immediately prior to the operation.
Risks can be eliminated by following these rules:
• DO NOT touch bait
• WATCH children at all times
• DO NOT EAT animals from this area or within the buffer zone outside the treatment boundary. The buffer zone is 2 km for deer and pigs, 200 m for rabbits, and 1 km for hares, tahr, wallabies and possums.
• Poison baits or carcasses are DEADLY to DOGS
Observe these rules whenever you see warning signs about pesticides. These signs indicate pesticide residues may be still present in baits and poisoned carcasses. When signs are removed, normal activities can resume. If in doubt, check with your local DOC office. Please report suspected vandalism or unauthorised removal of signs.
If you suspect poisoning, please contact:
• Your local doctor or hospital OR The National Poisons Centre: 0800 764 766 (urgent calls) or 03 479 7248 OR dial 111
• Seek veterinary advice for suspected poisoning of domestic animals.
Trades & Services
Ōtorohanga Lions Club
Laurie Harnett Scholarship
Students and apprentices living within the Ōtorohanga District are invited to apply for the Ōtorohanga Lions Club
Laurie Harnett Scholarship for 2024.
Students about to start a university degree or a trades apprenticeship that requires a minimum of three years study or training are eligible. Training or study is to commence in 2025.
The scholarship is now open to second year students and apprentices who have done well in their first year.
$6000 will be payable in two instalments.
$3000 will be paid in January 2025 with the second $3000 in January 2026.
Please request an application form from…
The Laurie Harnett Scholarship Committee Ōtorohanga Lions Club PO Box 63, Ōtorohanga or from drmawilliams@gmail.com or from The Ōtorohanga Lions Shop or from the Ōtorohanga Library
Applications are to be received by Friday, December 6 with the successful applicant notified by December 31
2024 Christmas Tree Festival
Why: Because it’s Christmas! And you can advertise your Business, Club or Group free of charge!
Where: Presbyterian Church Hall, corner of Ranfurly and Turongo Streets, Otorohanga.
When: Tree set up 3-6pm
Wednesday 4th December
The Christmas trees will be open to the public:
Thursday 5th 10am-4pm
Friday 6th 10am-8pm (come and enjoy carols at the Presbyterian Church on Friday evening)
Saturday 7th 10am-4pm
Prize for the most INVENTIVE tree and the BEST tree, voted by public choice.
Trees must be taken away after 4pm Saturday please.
Advertise your Business, Club or Group on your tree free of charge! Families are welcome to set up a tree too.
Christmas lights must be battery operated (I will turn these off at night and on again in the morning for best display of your tree).
No sweets or water around your tree on display but you are welcome to come and enjoy a cuppa while you look at the trees.
Please contact Doreen 021 037 6531 or leave a message.
Public Notices
Movie this Wednesday, for the 'young at heart'
‘Christmas Movie’
Morning tea 10am at the Journey Church, Te Kūiti, movie 10.30am All seniors welcome
Public Notices
RUAPUHA UEKAHA HAPU TRUST (Hauturu East 8)
Primary, Intermediate and Secondary Grants 2025 School Year
Education Grant Round NOW OPEN
Karanga mai - calling all descendants of Tanetinorau Opataia, Te Aroa Haami Haereiti, Te Riutoto Aihe & Whatakaraka. You are invited to apply for education grants in the following areas; Primary, Intermediate and Secondary grants for 2025 school year
You can download a application form from the RUHT website www.ruht.co.nz or by contacting educationgrants@ruht.co.nz.
To be eligible for a grant you must be registered with the Ruapuha Uekaha Hapu Trust. Before applying if you are unsure whether your children are registered, please email register@ruht.co.nz.
Applications close Friday, 06 December 24. LATE APPLICATIONS WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED.
For all queries phone 0800 525 626 or email educationgrants@ruht.co.nz.
Meetings
Piopio Rugby Football Club AGM
Thursday, December 5, 2024 7pm
All welcome Piopio Rugby Club
Notice of Annual General Meeting
The Beattie Home Community Trust invites you to attend our Annual General Meeting (AGM)
Date: Thursday, December 12, 2024 Time: 6:pm
UPCOMING EVENTS
60 PLUS XMAS LUNCH
Thursday, December 5 Doors open 11.30am Kai 12pm $20 per person
XMAS HOUSIE
Sunday, December 8 Doors open 8.30am $50 packages
XMAS DATES
Friday, December 13
$25 Parade Night Buffet & DJ
Tuesday, December 17 Merry Grinchmas Members Night
Friday, December 20
$30 Xmas Buffet & The Emerald Brothers New Years Eve - DJ Rayza & Just B from 8.15pm
BISTRO WEEKLY SPECIALS Wednesday Night $13 Club Night meal Friday - $22 Protein & salad bar Saturday - $20 Schnitzel night
Sunday - $22 Roast & dessert (plated)
Sunday - Kids Eat Free1 meal per adult. For bookings or more information phone 07 878 8263
Section 101, Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act 2012
TUESDAY 3 DECEMBER 2024, 6PM
their recent loss. We encourage you to have photographs, flowers, candles or other mementos of your loved one with you when you join the service. VJ Williams & Sons, 33 King Street West, Te Kuiti Please do not hesitate to contact V J Williams & Sons on 07 878 6100 with any queries
Venue: The Wilshier Centre, Beattie Home, 172 Maniapoto Street, Ōtorohanga
We warmly welcome members of the public to join us as we review the year, discuss future plans, and celebrate the community support that makes our work possible.
This is a great opportunity to learn more about the Trust and how we serve our residents and community.
For more information, please contact Beattie Home on 07 873 8789 or reception@beattiehome.co.nz
JD2023 Limited has made application to the District Licensing Committee at Ōtorohanga District Council, Ōtorohanga for the grant of an off license in respect of the premises situated at 6 Maniapoto st, Ōtorohanga known as Kiwitown Liquor Centre. The general nature of the of the business conducted (or to be conducted) under the license is a bottle store. The days on which and the hours during which alcohol (or intended to be). sold under the license are Monday to Sunday 9am to 10pm. The application may be inspected during ordinary office hours at the office of the Ōtorohanga District Licensing Committee, Ōtorohanga District Council, Maniapoto St, Ōtorohanga. Any person who is entitled to object and who wishes to object to the issue of the licence may, not later than 15 working days after publication of this notice, file a notice in writing of the objection with the District Licensing Committee at Ōtorohanga District council, PO Box11, Ōtorohanga 3940. No objection to the issue of a licence may be made in relation to a matter other than a matter specified in section 105 (1) of the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act 2012. No objection to the issue of a licence may be made in relation to a matter other than a matter specified in section 131 of the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act 2012 This is the first publication of this notice.
Church Notices
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Annual General Meeting for the beneficiaries of Te Kūiti Pā (Pukenui 2V1, 2V2 and Te Pukenui No. 3) will be held at Te Kūiti Pā, Awakino Road, Te Kūiti on Sunday, 15 December 2024 at 10:00am – 12:30pm.
whakatau/karakia timatanga
Lunch will be provided at the end of the AGM. Following lunch, the Ngāti Rōrā Trust hui will take place from 2pm.
All AGM Reports will be sent out to those who have provided their mailing details. AGM Reports will be available at the hui and also on www.tekuitipa.co.nz
You can never go where God is not (Max Lucado) Phone parish office
Funeral Services
• Casket sprays
• Wreaths
• Arrangements
• Catering Funeral
96 Rora Street, Te Kūiti 07 878 8882 or 027 567 1930 bloomsandbrewsnz@gmail.com
Sunday Service 10.30am Kids Club 11am Youth 12.30pm-3pm Evening service 7pm
The Harvest Centre, 5 Tuhoro St, Otorohanga 07 873 8890 I 027 493 0117 • harvest.pc@xtra.co.nz
Pastors Peter & Carole Coventry (An Assemblies of God Church)
Marsh, Barbara Jean (Sands, nee Nicol):
Peacefully surrounded by family, on Sunday, November 24, 2024, aged 91. Loved mother and mother-in-law of Garry and Marlene and Colin. Adored nana Marsh to Daniel, Renee and Lee, and greatnana Marsh to Jackson, Spenser, Benji and Arabella. Aunty Barb to many. Much loved by all her family and friends. A service for Barbara will be held at VJ Williams & Son’s Chapel, 33 King Street West, Te Kūiti on Saturday, November 30 at 1pm, followed by cremation. The family would like to thank Hospice, palliative care and district nurses. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Hospice Waikato. For livestreaming details or to leave a tribute visit www.vjwilliams. co.nz/funerals-tributes. All communications to Marsh Family C/- PO Box 241, Te Kuiti 3941. VJ Williams & Sons, Funeral Directors Association of NZ.
MARSH, Barbara Jean: passed peacefully on Sunday, November 24, 2024. Beloved and adored aunt of Karen McGregor and great aunt of Andrew Earl. Love you forever and always.
10 Sheridan St, Te Kūiti An Assemblies of God church
10:30am Sunday
10 Sheridan St, Te Kuiti Pastor Terry & Rowena Bradley 07 878 8694 021 703 008
An Assemblies of God Church We welcome you to our 10.30am Sunday service. If you are unable to attend, please email officejourneynz@gmail.com for the video recording Grace, peace and strength
On-Stage Te Kūiti extends a BIG THANK YOU to all in Waitomo and surrounding communities for supporting
It was a sell-out season that gave everyone a buzz!
We appreciate the sponsorship and funding from the following businesses, organizations and individuals
Legendary Te Kūiti
Waitomo District Council
DC Tynan Trust
Citizens Advice Bureau Te Kūiti
HERBERT, Nelson Koha: Passed November 24, 2022. We think about you always, we talk about you still. You have never been forgotten and never will. We hold you close within our hearts and there you will remain to guide us through our lives. Until we meet again, your loving wife Hana and whānau.
