Lara to the rescue
By Chris Gardner
When Jeff Woolford broke a wrist after going over the handlebars of his farm bike last year, his partner Lara Sutton stepped into his gumboots.
“I would not have survived without her,” Woolford said. “It’s been pretty hard over the last eight months.
“Lara has really held the farm, her career, and everything together.”
Sutton, who was this month named one of three finalists in the 2025 Dairy Woman of the Year Award, ended up doing more on their State Highway One farm as Woolford healed.
“I was quite lucky to spend more time with the kids,” Woolford said.
Woolford had his hands full with Georgia, seven, and Logan, five, while Sutton focused on balancing milking 290ha Jersey cows on 100 hectares with her role as DairyNZ strategy and commercial partnership manager.
Working for the good of the dairy industry with the Dairy Companies Association of New Zealand, the Dairy Women’s Network and Federated Farmers is all in a day’s work.
“It was definitely busy from July until December,” Sutton said.
The pressure came off as the farm moved to once-a-day milking in mid-December, and Woolford’s injury healed about two months ago.
Sutton also managed to find time to complete the 10-month Escalator programme through the AgriWomen’s Development Trust.
The programme includes modules on understanding self, governance, leadership, communication and future direction.
The farm produced about 96,000 kilograms of milksolids this season, down about four per cent on its average 100,000 production thanks to the drought.
This is the couple’s fourth as a
predominantly Jersey herd-owning sharemilkers on the138-hectare dairy farm midway between Piarere and Tīrau.
“We have been all grass with hay,” Sutton said.
“This season we needed to buy in some palm kernel to fill the gap.”
“The farm owners have put in a shed feeder, which will change things a little bit.”
“We are also heading toward a cross bred herd to be able to cut down on bobby calves.”
Crossbreeding dairy cows with beef bulls can significantly reduce the number of bobby calves. By crossbreeding, these calves can be raised for beef production, which increases their market value and provides an alternative to early processing.
Woolford hails from Tuakau and began his working life as a farmhand on a farm near Pirongia.
Sutton comes from Te Kowhai and grew up in Hauturu near Kāwhia in the King Country and then Hamilton.
They both spent the 2009-10 season milking at Te Kawa in the King Country.
“Jeff and I are a real partnership, and we talk about every decision on farm,” she said. “I genuinely love working with Jeff.”
“It’s definitely a family business,” he said.
“I was very surprised and extremely humbled,” said Sutton of her placing as a finalist in the Dairy Woman of the Year competition
Sutton was nominated by a friend, and nearly didn’t complete the application form because she did not feel worthy.
Dairy Women’s Network trustee and award judge Jenna Smith said: “Lara left the judges with a clear sense of her ability to connect then lead. Her demonstrated ability to continue to challenge herself, has seen her seize opportunity and develop significant process and progress in the dairy industry.”
• See: Owl farmer in award final, page 15.
Lara Sutton left the Dairy Woman of the Year judges with a clear sense of her ability to connect then lead.
Photo: Chris Gardner
Festival cash handed out
By Viv Posselt
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Twenty-one charitable organisations and groups operating throughout the Waikato area have received funding from last year’s Cambridge Christmas Festival.
A total of $33,511,67 was given out, with varying amounts going to each of the recipient organisations. The amount – raised at the festival in the Town Hall - is slightly down on last year’s record of $37,340.
The event has become a fixture on the local calendar for 22 years with the almost week-long festival showcasing work done by Cambridge Christmas Festival
Society members throughout the year. The ornaments and gifts they make during weekly sessions throughout the year end up as gifts for sale, or decorations displayed on a range of themed Christmas trees. Adding to the festive environment are performances by a several choirs, Christmas teas and other entertainment.
Society members and representatives of the recipient charitable organisations gathered for a special tea last week.
President Philippa D’Ath thanked the charities for the work they do in their communities, and expressed gratitude to the public for its ongoing support of the festival.
On the beat with Constable Ryan Fleming
Great to be back
I’m back. After a six month hiatus working in Hamilton I have decided there is “no place like home” and I have returned to my substantive position as community constable for Te Awamutu.
I particularly enjoyed the fact that the extensive roadworks on State Highway 3 were completed the same day I finished my daily commute.
To those that live here in Te Awamutu and work in Hamilton, I take my hat off to you. I also enjoy the fact that my first column back is for both Te Awamutu and Cambridge and I would like to pay tribute to Deb Hann who has stepped in and been the voice for both communities in my absence.
Stepping away from my role has given me a renewed focus on what I do and how I do it. As they say, a change is as good as a holiday.
Early on March 23, Fresh Choice Cambridge
was subject to a robbery where four offenders arrived in a stolen vehicle and ran into the store with weapons (crowbar, hammer) and stolen cigarettes. They then drove to Te Awamutu where they did the same at the Chatsfield Dairy.
Waikato West Criminal Investigation Branch (CIB) made enquiries and through an extensive intelligence network, four offenders were identified.
Police executed a series of search warrants across the Waikato and as a result three of the four offenders have been arrested and put before the court last week.
Members of the public observed a female going onto a commercial building site at the weekend and began removing items belonging to the builders. Police responded and arrested a female who has been put to court for burglary..
Recipient organisations this year are Cambridge Autumn Festival Trust, Sports Chaplaincy NZ, Cambridge Riding for the Disabled, Cambridge Community MenzShed, Ko Wai Au Trust, Octopus for a Preemie NZ, Children First Charitable Trust, Clothe Our Kids Waikato, Cambridge Lifeskills Trust, Cambridge Community House Trust, Cambridge Kids Playgroup, Hora Hora School, Cambridge Early Learning Centre, Childplayworks Charitable Trust, Cambridge Community Marae, Cambridge Toy Library, Leamington Playcentre, EquiPotential NZ, Leamington Croquet Club, Waikato Rivertones, and the Cambridge Cancer Support Group.
Representatives from most of the organisations that benefited from last year’s Cambridge Christmas Festival. With them are Cambridge Christmas Festival Society president Philippa D’Ath, third from left standing, and secretary Linda Sutherland, far right.
Photo: Viv Posselt
Briefs…
Festival a success
The Cambridge Autumn Festival Trust says the success of the latest festival - with four concerts and two workshops sold out and more than 5000 people attending the Te Awa Lifecare Main Street Carnival and Autumn Art Market –means they have already started work on next year’s event. Highlights included performances by new trio “La Voce o Rotorua”, pianist Michael Houstoun, and the three country artists –Rowdy’s Rose, James Ray, and The DCP. Organisers were also able to include musicians and performers from local high schools, dance schools and arts academies.
Executive shuffle
Katie Mayes, who is currently NZ Transport Agency System Planning and Investment national manager will join Waipā District Council as Cambridge Connections executive director next month. Meanwhile the council has farewelled deputy chief executive Ken Morris and Human Resources group manager Stephanie Shores. Service Delivery group manager Dawn Inglis has also resigned from the executive. James Graham is filling in as acting chief financial officer.
All that jazz
Cambridge High School jazz bands won gold and silver medals at the Tauranga Jazz Festival last week with Hunter Davies taking out the Best Guitar player prize. The bands have been competing there for three years so it was an impressive haul. School drama groups who performed at the Shakespeare regional competition had two wins and now qualify for the national competition final in Wellington.
Added to squad
Cambridge water polo player
Oliver Scott has been added to Water Polo NZ’s under 16 men’s squad. Scott was part of the Hamilton Boys’ High School team which won the Waikato Water Polo high school competition recently pipping St Johns’ College 9-8 in the final.
Keir wants mayor’s job
By Roy Pilott
He’s opted out of another term as a ward councillor – and even thought about resigning - but Mike Keir now wants the Waikato district mayoral chains. Jacqui Church has held them for the last two and a half years.
Keir, who alternates with fellow Woodlands-Tamahere councillor Crystal Beavis in penning a monthly column in The News, has regularly vented his frustration at council operations.
He told The News he was frustrated with the latest rate increase decision.
“…last year after completing a one year enhanced annual plan that resulted in a 12.9 per cent rate increase, I requested that we do our Long-Term Plan differently to get a different outcome. Yet we have used exactly the same system and are facing an average 11 per cent rate rise for those ratepayers on our waters network with ongoing rate increases of eight per cent for the next eight years.
“Everyone agrees that the rating system is broken, and I hear a lot of talk to that effect, however I see no action.”
He believes it is possible to bring rate increases down below the inflation rate which is what is required.
“A 2018 Government report on the rating system said that increasing rates faster than the consumer price index or wage growth is unsustainable yet we have carried on doing this for the past seven years and forecast to continue for the next nine. How is this allowed to happen?”
He believes that, like the reserve bank, councils should have a target band for rate increases and it should be supported by central government.
Jack’s grit applauded
By Jon Rawlinson
When Jack Middlemiss, a 10-year-old from Cambridge, spotted a boy struggling in the surf shortly before Christmas, his first thought was to help him.
“I saw him struggling and knew I had to do something, so I paddled out to him to make sure he was all right,” Jack said.
“We learn all about surf conditions, how to get out of a rip and rescue techniques at Surf Lifesaving Nippers so it was cool to put that into practice for real.”
Jack has since received an award for this act of bravery. The rescue occurred at Shark Alley near Mount Maunganui.
While surfing with his dad, Jack saw the boy (aged 8-10 years) who appeared to be out of his depth in the grips of a rip that had formed near rocks.
“The boy had a boogie board but no fins. It was clear he had no idea what was going on or how to get out of it,” he explains.
“He had been sucked about 30 metres out, well over his head, past the breakers and past most of the other people in the water.”
After pointing this out to his father, Jack paddled to the rescue. He helped the boy climb back onto his board and paddled next to him parallel to the beach, instead of against the rip, before turning towards shore once they were clear.
By that stage, the boy was hanging on
to the bottom part of his boogie board and appeared to have no comprehension of the danger he was in or even what a rip was. Jack paddled slowly the whole way with him until they reached the break zone, where the boy managed to catch a wave to shore and leave the water.
Although the boy was last seen walking up the beach while Jack carried on surfing, his bravery certainly did not go unnoticed. Both Jack and his brother, Will, are proud members of the Mount Maunganui Surf club. The fact Jack could identify the problem, knew what to do about it and then had the confidence to intervene is a testament to the quality of the Mount Surf club’s junior surf programme.
The club recently recognised Will by presenting him with a coach’s award and second place for his age group.
David Graham, Jack’s principal at Goodwood School was impressed, although not too surprised, by his young student’s lifesaving efforts.
“We see the same attitude from him in school, so it’s no great surprise that he’s showing this out in the community too,” he says.
“Our school values spell GRIT –generosity, respect, integrity and trust – it’s great to see Jack demonstrate all those values through his actions in this situation. We’re very proud.”
Keir, who will vote for the retention of Māori wards at the referendum in October, believes the joint agreement between the council and Tainui is under performing.
“I also believe that Tainui is a huge asset to our community. It is the only corporate we have that invests back into our district and region with a long-term view.
“Their recent Ruakura hub development should serve as a guideline for resource management reform in this country.”
Keir acknowledges he faces a challenge to win the election, but “if unelected as
mayor, then the voters have had their say and I will leave the local government sector having a least tried to make change”.
Mike Keir
Will, left, and Jack Middlemiss receiving their surf lifesaving awards.
Photo: Supplied
Clock ticks down to water decision
Waikato and King Country residents are making the most significant local government decision in a generation, and in most cases, they only have days, rather than weeks to decide. Senior writers Chris Gardner and Mary Anne Gill look at what’s involved.
Councillors have had their say, now it’s up to residents.
Should half a million people support a proposal to hand over their council’s water operations – up to 30 per cent of its annual operating expenditure – to a council-controlled water organisation?
Or should they stick with the status quo?
The issue is that New Zealand’s water infrastructure is in dire need of upgrades. Estimates suggest it will cost between $120 billion and $185 billion over the next 30 years to upgrade and maintain these systems.
Waikato’s portion of that has been conservatively estimated at $6 billion.
Hamilton city, Waikato and Waipā districts –all identified as experiencing high population growth and officially categorised as ‘growth councils’ - are struggling to fund infrastructure and the developer cash cow has dried up.
Ratepayers already face double digit rate increases and have no appetite for much more.
Something had to replace Labour’s controversial Three Waters plan which was consigned to a political graveyard last year. The coalition government came up with Local Water Done Well as its replacement and with it came some tough deadlines for councils already grappling with funding their Long Term and Annual plans.
Every city and district council in New Zealand must have developed a Water Services Delivery plan by September 3 after presenting two options to their communities, one the preferred one.
Waikato councils, led by their Mayoral Forum, have been quick off the mark.
Hamilton and Waikato are already telling residents about their two options. The preferred one is to form a council-controlled organisation owned by the two councils to manage drinking and wastewater.
The second is an in-house business unit which they say is unsustainable. Their residents have until April 27 to have a say.
Stormwater services – the third of the Three Waters - remain with councils under the government’s direction as they are too linked to roading to split out at this stage.
Council-controlled organisations will give local authorities access to more lending opportunities and spread the debt out across generations, supporters say.
The other Waikato councils – Waipā, Matamata-Piako, Hauraki, Taupō, Waitomo, Ōtorohanga, Thames-Coromandel and South Waikato – are at different stages of the decision making but still a long way ahead of the rest of the country, according to Marlon Bridge from the Department of Internal Affairs.
Bridge is head of Strategy in the department’s Three Waters transition team and chief technical advisor for the government on Local Water Done Well.
Waipā did consider joining fellow growth councils Waikato and Hamilton but as mayor Susan O’Regan told a Waikato Chamber Grow Waikato forum last week, her council felt a level of responsibility to the broader region.
Long-term, she sees all Waikato councils in one council-controlled organisation, a situation Hamilton Mayor Paula Southgate and Waikato Mayor Jacqui Church also foresee; but not yet.
“We’ve come to you as a region with a
couple of really good solutions that we are doing by choice because you told us you didn’t want to be told by Wellington.
“We pushed back on that,” said O’Regan, who was joined at the business forum by Southgate, Church and Bridge in a discussion moderated by Kelvyn Eglinton, a former general manager of growth at Hamilton City Council.
Waipā went with a seven-member regional model – eight if Thames-Coromandel comes on board - called Waikato Water Done Well.
South Waikato and Waitomo are at the same stage and like Waipā are out consulting residents already with an early May deadline.
Ōtorohanga and Thames-Coromandel went with their preferred options last week - forming a multi-council-controlled water organisation and gave residents until May 6.
Taupō was expected to choose its preferred choice this week before going to public consultation, while Hauraki and MatamataPiako select their preferred options on April 30.
“This is probably one of the most significant decisions council’s elected members will make,” said Ōtorohanga Engineering and Assets group manager Mark Lewis.
There was a lone voice, Kio Kio-Korakonui ward councillor Rodney Dow, who favoured going it alone, an option most councils have rejected because it does not solve the huge financial costs water infrastructure requires.
“What you decide as a group is fine, and I will support it,” he said but then voted against adopting Waikato Water Done Well. Thames Coromandel does want to join up with neighbouring councils. In its case that could be with Bay of Plenty, Hamilton and Waikato or Waikato Water Done Well.
Consultation on Thames-Coromandel District Council’s options opened last week and will run until May 15. They could join three council-controlled organisationsWaikato Water Done Well, Hamilton city and Waikato district or joining in with Bay of Plenty councils.
Comins Plumbing and Gas
Laser Electrical
Cambridge ITM
Waipa Civil
Precision Ready Mix
Cambridge Glass
Van Dyks Flooring Xtra
Above All Roofing
Continuous Group
Edwards Bricklayers
CEC Ltd
DuCo Windows and Doors
Cambridge Tiles
Cogswell Surveyors
Steelfab
Wackrows Joinery
Cambridge Hire Bins
Cambridge Hire Centre
Cambridge Insurance Brokers
Cooney Law
Herbert Morton Chartered Accountants
Waikato mayor Jacqui Church, Department of Internal Affairs’ Marlon Bridge, Hamilton mayor Paula Southgate, Waipā mayor Susan O’Regan, moderator Kelvyn Eglinton and Waikato Chamber chief executive Don Good at the Grow Waikato forum.
Photo: Mary Anne Gill
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Delivering words, not babies
By Mary Anne Gill
Marie-ann Quin delivered more than 1200 babies in Waipā and King Country in the 25 years before she retired two years ago.
She covered thousands of kilometres in that time travelling to Te Awamutu, Cambridge, Kāwhia, Te Miro, Horahora, Arapuni, Arohena, Ōtorohanga and all the remote communities in between.
Quin, 68, who lives in Te Kawa between Ōtorohanga and Te Awamutu, launched her second novel Midwives and Men of War at the Te Awamutu RSA last week.
It is the second in a trilogy spanning midwifery from the time settlers came to New Zealand in the 1840s to the present day.
The first Emerald to Pounamu: A Midwife’s Odyssey sold well and had to be reprinted two weeks after its launch.
She gave an author’s talk and signed copies of the book to midwives, nurses, friends, relatives and patrons at a venue she described as appropriate as the love interest is a WW1 Gallipoli soldier.
Quin trained, worked and practised as a registered nurse at Waikato Hospital
and then did her Plunket training when her children were little.
She covered the rural areas around Waipā while Nola Berney looked after Te Awamutu town.
“I had to work as there was a huge dairy downturn in the 80s and it was the only way to keep our heads above water.
“Most of the families I was caring for were in the same boat so I could really relate to their stresses and support them in the most compassionate way,” she told The News.
In 1990, she did her midwifery training and set up as an independent
midwife including shifts at Matariki Maternity.
“The doctors already knew me from Plunket, so they were very supportive and we worked alongside each other to give the women, their babies and their families the best possible care,” said Quin.
Two years ago, she retired, burnt out by the demanding and unsustainable caseload caused by too few midwives.
At one point she was travelling up to 1000kms a week to see families.
She had been unable to work for several years but navigated her way back to good health, picking up casual work at Matariki, and
then Te Awamutu Birthing.
A highlight in recent times was when she became a rural and remote rural locum travelling around New Zealand giving rural midwives a holiday break, which the government partly funded.
Before her retirement she was working casual 12 hour shifts at Tokoroa Birthing Unit.
“Covid meant that I was unable to reduce my hours, as the mandate took many of our midwives out of employment and I ended up doing four 12 hour shifts, not the best way to ease into retirement.”
That experience she put into her first book and filled a void when she “finally and reluctantly left the career that I adored.”
Her daughter Kat Quin, who writes and illustrates the Kuwi the Kiwi and Flit the Fantail series helped design the book covers, set up a website and be a selfpublishing mentor.
Another daughter Esther Harcourt, who lives in Wellington and who has a doctorate in English and German literature, gave some brutal, but necessary guidance with editing before Quin sent her manuscript to a professional editor.
Family history gave her ideas for the by-stories of other characters, especially the love interests. Her grandfather Hubert Matson fought at Gallipoli.
The novel follows Louise, who is studying to become a midwife, while her mother and grandmother, from the first novel remain Class B midwives.
They can now only practice under the supervision of a doctor or a formally trained midwife.
The hierarchical system challenges the practice of these women, who Louise has grown up with and admired for their skills and wisdom.
Quin has a busy life with her husband Pat, three daughters and 11 grandchildren, but she took some advice from Stephen King’s autobiography About Writing, to be selfdisciplined and sit down every day to write 2000 words.
She is travelling to Hanmer Springs for Anzac Day next week where she will wear her grandfather’s medals and attend the re-opening of the newly renovated Queen Mary Soldiers Rehabilitation Hospital where some of the latest novel is set.
Briefs…
Licence granted Cambridge Raceway’s on licence has been renewed for three years by the Waipā Licensing committee after a two-day hearing in February. There are several conditions including compliance with a Noise Management Plan, liquor may only be sold in non-glass cups in the grandstand and outside grassed area, drinking water must be freely available and each separate lounge offer at least four types of light meals. Poppies galore Mātangi School students added more than 260 knitted poppies to the school’s front fence to mark Anzac Day. Members of the community taught the children how to knit last year and their contributions join other knitted poppies – made by Mātangi Garden Club and the community committee since 2017 as part of WW100 - which hang in an oak tree in the Jack Foster Reserve.
Weal in top job
Dressage rider and trainer Christine Weal has been appointed Equestrian Sport NZ’s new High Performance dressage manager. Weal, who lives and works at stables in Te Rahu Rd between Te Awamutu and Cambridge, breeds and produces young horses for both dressage and eventing.
Marie-ann Quin with daughter Kat at her book launch at Te Awamutu RSA. Photo: Supplied.
Game on for Neil
Traps best stay shut once the season opens as loud talk may scare the birds but until then, there was time for Jon Rawlinson to talk with Neil Pratt about his love of the ‘game’.
Duck hunters will be out in force, on boats, in maimais, on rivers or beside ponds next month as the crack of shotguns signals the start of game bird season.
Among those intent to bag their share of birds will be Te Kūiti Cambridge Trap Shooters Club president, Neil Pratt.
“On opening day we’ll probably shoot our limit because there’s good duck numbers and there will be plenty of shooting which will keep them moving around,” he said.
“As the season goes on and the ducks start to come in at dusk, you’ll see these flying silhouettes screeching, turning and twisting in the sky as they come to land on the swamps. Night shooting is probably the most exciting for me because a duck can be right on top of you before you even see it.”
During the season, Neil, 62, is often at his usual post on the Waipā River.
“It should be a good season. There’s been a really good breeding season and, with some recent rain, there’s a lot of ducks on the rivers. As maize crops are being
cut, ducks are getting out to pasture too. Mallard ducks have had a prolific breeding season, there’s a lot of paradise shelducks around and we’re also seeing quite a few droves of Canada geese.”
It may not seem easy being green when dressed to kill, but without duck hunters, pests would make short work of our native wildlife and wetlands. In addition, Fish and Game licence fees are primarily put towards managing fish, birds and the habitat on which they depend.
“Hunters want to make sure they have the best environment for their sport so there’s a lot of investment by them into conservation. We invest in tree planting and help with pest eradication around ponds to get rid of ferrets, stoats and rats, for example.
“Fish and Game is constantly developing ponds and wetlands. They have enormous financial resources so people can rehabilitate wetlands and other environments.”
Although now living in Pirongia, Neil was born and raised in Ōtorohanga. He
says hunting is in his blood.
Hunting’s a family tradition. His grandfather, Murray Pratt Senior, came to the King Country in the early 1900s and was a keen hunter.
“It followed through to my father, to me and right down to my grandchildren. Duck shooters become enormously passionate about the sport so it does tend to run in families.”
The club is based at committee member Jim Tarrant’s farm on Lees Block Rd north of Te Kūiti. In 2009 the Cambridge Gun Club became incorporated with it
While the game bird season will lure shooters away from the traps, Te Kūiti Cambridge Trap Shooters Club will first provide the perfect opportunity for members to perfect their aim when it hosts the annual Duckshooter Shoot on Anzac Day.
“We set up clay targets simulating live birds, so they’re flying out of bushes and trees and swamps coming in overhead and doing all sorts of things you see from live birds in the field.”
Held since the seventies,
the event has hunters flock home to the range before heading out into the field.
“We’ve had more than 300 shooters at the event. We have large numbers turn up because hunters want to get their eye in prior to the duck shooting season.”
Success when on the hunt can be measured by the bag, but clay target shooting delivers rich rewards too. A list of Neil’s own accolades could fill a ‘magazine’, but he rattles off the names of ‘just a few’ of his club mates at a machinegun rate.
“I replicated my grandfather’s [Murray Pratt Senior] feats, becoming a New Zealand champion and being inducted into the NZ Clay Target Association Hall of Fame,” he said.
The club produces a high level of representative shooters including Tarrant, who won a NZ national championship aged 70, Dennis Colson, Gary Pooley and Trevor Ewens, and Neil’s son Michael.
Clay target shooting includes a number of disciplines; Neil shoots DTL, or down the line, which is the most common form.
Peak time rush
By Mary Anne Gill
New Zealand Transport Agency says work on the northbound lane from Victoria Rd interchange in Cambridge to Tamahere proved the most challenging in terms of traffic management on Waikato Expressway ever. NZTA mitigated it through minimising rolling roadblocks at peak times and setting up lane closures in sections.
This week road users experienced some delays while NZTA sprayed emulsion behind a rolling block to avoid the risk of vehicles being damaged.
Sealing took place on Monday and the sealing bedded in with rollers on Tuesday. It opened at 70km/hr on Wednesday. Delays are generally around 20 minutes, 30 minutes at peak. There will be no works over Easter and Anzac while temporary speed limits should be removed.
Following the chipseal work, Fulton Hogan will return to carry out further asphalting in May as part of their scheduled maintenance programme.
Neil Pratt – prepared for game bird season. Photo: Supplied
Wheelie fun
Racquets
CAMBRIDGE VOLUNTEER FIRE BRIGADE C ALLS OVER THE L AST WEEK
CAMBRIDGE VOLUNTEER FIRE BRIGADE CALLS OVER THE LAST WEEK
WEDNESDAY
WEDNESDAY
8:07am, House Fire, Vaile Cresent
9:55am, Cardiac Arrest, Bryce Street
SATURDAY
1:09pm, Building Alarm and evacuation, Ruakura Road
2:28pm, Smoke in the Vicinity, Mike Smith Drive
11:56pm, Building Alarm and evacuation, Hautapu Road
2:53pm, Building alarm and activation, Wilson Street
FRIDAY
SUNDAY
8:42am, Building Alarm and evacuation. Maungatautari Road
8:35am, Building alarm and activation, Kentucky Road
SUNDAY
An adaptive tennis, squash and pickleball day at Cambridge Racquets Club last week provided plenty of action, laughter and community spirit. The club welcomed Parafed Waikato which supports and promotes sport and recreation for people with physical disabilities and visual impairments and offers a range of adapted activities for their members.
The day was all about inclusion, said Parafed Waikato Sport Development officer Cathy Wooller.
Activities ranged from wheelchair tennis, blind and low vision tennis, standard tennis alongside squash and pickleball.
3:53am, Medical assistance, Karapiro Road
10:28am, Building alarm and activation, Alpha Street
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They came for a battle, and left having exhausted themselves doing it. It was the battle of the schools at the Velodrome in Cambridge on Sunday with teams from Goodwood, Tamahere, Cambridge East, Cambridge Primary, Te Miro, Cambridge Middle, Cambridge High, Pukete, Hillcrest high, Southwell, St Peters Cambridge, Fairfield college, Hautapu, Berkely, Kaipaki, Te Kowhai and Maeroa.
Forty three teams and 147 children took part in three rounds of racing helped by 42 volunteers, food trucks, movies, facepainting and an opportunity to meet many of our Olympic athletes and gather autographs.
The event was organised by Grassroots Trust Velodrome staff member Mya Anderson.
Event results:
Novice Junior - Umizoomiz –Maja Parker, Faith Booker, Elena Dool 1, Southwell Boys – Deagon
Everton, Lewis Moore, George Campbell 2, Naked Mole Rats – Otto Brabants, Connor Read, Zavier Smart 3.
Accredited Junior - St Peters
Junior Boys – Joshua Barclay, Mason Russell, Charlie Leicester 1, CMS Bulldogs – Mackenzie Russell, Oscar Bradford, LouieTaylor 2, St Peters Junior Mixed – Jayden Botha, Drew Davis, Bella Wybourne, Madeleine Taylor 3.
Novice Senior - CHS OLC – Cate Kuggelejin, Olive Macdonald, Lily Cameron 1, LJJ Racing – Joshua Wright, jessica Dixon, Lucy Gascoigne 2, Emamim – Emily Cameron, Imogen Henshaw, Amelia Hohneck 3.
Accredited Senior - St Peters
Senior – William Miller, Eva Moon, Kate Bushell 1, Hillcrest High –Matai Reid, Fletcher Hamilton, Cody Whitford 2, St Peters Men – Cooper Moana, Blake Stevens, Harry Diplock 3.
• More cambridgenews.nz
Club manager Suzie Halliday and Wooller organised a fun day with all courts – inside and out – alive with 42 Parafed members and their families.
“Suzie rallied their players and members who came along to volunteer, and they made sure everyone felt welcome and supported on the day,”
“It was such a positive event and smash hit that we have decided we will return each year.”
Relaxing between races, from left Hamish Purchase, Nixon Schofield, Hazel Chapman of Cambridge Middle School. Photo: Michael Jeans.
Jane Curry with Carli Van Zyl from Cambridge Racquets Club trying out squash for the first time since she’s been a wheelchair user.
Building a champion
By Mary Anne Gill
Te Awamutu apprentice
Jack Mathis may have been the youngest competing at the builders’ challenge event in Cambridge on Saturday, but his carpentry skills were the best on show.
Judges selected the 19-year-old as their winner in the Waikato heat of the New Zealand Certified Builders Apprentice (NZCBA) challenge held at Mitre 10, and he now advances to the national final in Hamilton.
Hamilton’s Warren Zarsuelo, 39, was second while Anam Farrant, 22, of Cambridge came in third.
But the big winner is arguably the Tokoroa playcentre that Jack’s two nieces attend which will get the planter box he made as part of the competition.
“I went in hoping not to come last, so I was pretty stoked to win,” he said.
“It was a great experience.
I really enjoyed the more technical parts of the build and getting to meet other apprentices.”
Jack is into his third year of apprenticeship training with the Building and Construction Industry Training Organisation (BCITO) and TOC Builders, owned by his brother Tom, who recently took over ownership of the Te Awamutu ITM.
Most of the family work in a trade or on a farm.
“Having a trade under my belt is something I’ll be able to use in many aspects of my life,” said Jack.
“I can’t wait for the national final,” he said.
The competition tests apprentices’ carpentry skills under pressure.
Apprentices were given eight hours to construct a planter box, which were donated to their local community.
The finished boxes were
Alys Antiques & Fine Art
assessed for workmanship, measuring, cutting, assembly, and attention to detail.
Judges also evaluated each apprentice’s ability to follow a detailed plan and apply safe working techniques.
Jack won a $1000 Makita and Mitre10 Trade prize pack. He will represent Waikato at the national final in June, where he will compete against 19 other regional winners for the prestigious Ken Read Memorial Trophy and a $10,000 prize pack.
Anam was homeschooled on Waiheke Island before moving to board at St Peter’s School in Cambridge. After finishing he stayed to play rugby for Hautapu Sports, turning out at first five for the premier team.
On the look out for a job, he asked the builder renovating his parent’s home if he needed any labourers and was offered a job, progressing to an apprenticeship studying at Wintec.
Chest of Drawers, Mahogany, Finely moulded Ogee Feet, 104cm high, 119 wide, 52 deep, End 18th, early 19th C, good condition. Staffordshire Castle, 1820s
Jules Duffart, French, 1924- French Town View, Oil on Board, Signed
Waikato winners at the builders’ challenge, from left Warren Zarsuelo, Jack Mathis and Anam Farrant.
Photo: Supplied.
ON SHAKY GROUND
From whisper to roar
By Janine Krippner
I often say that part of a volcanologist’s job is to understand not just the obvious scenarios when a volcano stirs, but also the less predictable ones. Here’s a powerful example of how things can take an unexpected turn.
In late 2020—amidst a world full of distractions—you might have missed the eruption of La Soufrière, a volcano on the island nation of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines in the Caribbean. This wasn’t an unknown volcano. Documented eruptions stretch back to 1718, with the most recent activity in 1979, so it was on the radar of the volcanology community.
On 27 December 2020, a new lava dome was spotted right beside the old one. A lava dome forms when near-solid lava squeezes out at the surface and grows into a large mound of hot, and potentially very dangerous rock. While active, the dome can be incredibly hot and unstable. Generally, this is not a good place to be.
This kind of activity, where lava steadily squeezes out like toothpaste from a tube, is known as an effusive eruption. There’s little to no explosive activity in this phase — no volcanic ash, no flying rock — at least, not yet.
Over the following months the lava dome continued to grow. By 19 March the dome was 105m tall, 921m long, and 243m wide. To put that in perspective, the Beehive in Wellington is 72m high and about nine times the length of a rugby field. An impressive structure so far!
Then, on 21 March, local volcanologists detected a shift. Changes in the pattern of seismicity hinted that more magma might be rising—a warning that something was changing beneath the surface.
By 5 April the seismicity was ramping up.
Just three days later, steam and gas were observed visibly venting from the top of the dome. The alert level was raised to Red, and evacuations began. The eruption was about to shift from slow and steady to something far more dangerous.
On 9 April the eruption turned explosive, with the magma violently fragmenting into ash that towered high above the vent. This new phase saw volcanic ash significantly impacting St. Vincent as well as Barbados to the east.
Over the following days, ash plumes reached up to 16km altitude as well as pyroclastic flows–fast and hot avalanches of gas and rock. The ash drifted around 3000km east, disrupting air traffic across the region. The weight of the ash caused some roofs to collapse in St. Vincent.
By 11 April, widespread power and water outages were affecting the island— compounding the challenges of an already difficult pandemic year.
Intermittent ash plumes and pyroclastic flows continued until the end of the eruption on 22 April.
In total, approximately 22,000 people were evacuated, 88 shelters were activated, and the cleanup cost more than $NZ17.8 million.
This eruption started out quietly—gently, even—and remained that way for months. That long, calm period can lead to a false sense of security.
But this example shows just how quickly a volcano’s behaviour can shift. What begins as an effusive eruption can evolve into something far more hazardous.
GREAT BED DEALS
Another Pacific Island sojourn
By Peter Carr
In my much earlier seagoing days I crossed the South Pacific 21 times - this during the early to mid-1960s on ships that carried mainly passengers and sometimes cargo. Today as I write this I am enjoying - or rather re-enjoying - the balmy seas and a gentle Southeast trade wind which is typical of this area.
This enjoyment is on board a very new expedition ship with just 230 passengers and 240 crew. This indicating a high level of service on board. We are mid-way between the Cook Islands outpost of Aituaki and the Samoan capital of Apia where we are due tomorrow morning. So, I thought I would cover this week the remoteness of Samoa, its part in the international world and its very friendly people.
I first called there in 1975 when responsible for the mainline shipping service based on Auckland that was the lifeline for cargo with the rest of the world. Based in Auckland, Apia was one of the ports on the regular circuit that included Fiji, (then) Western Samoa, Tonga and the Cook Islands.
The reference to the (then) nature of Western Samoa is that it kept a clock time relevant to the eastern side of the international date line.
Traffic drove American style but trade was mainly with New Zealand. So, a few years ago the nomenclature ‘Western’ was dropped and the clocks realigned to be the same day and one hour different from Auckland. And the traffic moved to the other side of the road.
In the 1800s and early 1900s the Germans had a deep interest in South Pacific islands and trade and Samoa was one of these. Driving out of Apia the coconut trees are all growing in very Teutonic straight lines however, during WWI, the New Zealand army cleared the Germans out and British related rule took over - albeit due to New Zealand care and overview. Independence came in 1962 and a major
migration for work opportunities saw a marked growth of Samoan culture, religion and employment in mainly south Auckland.
The two main islands comprise by far the greater majority of the land massthe governor general residing in Vailima - once the home of long-standing author Robert Louis Stephenson. Even the local beer’s label reflects the name of the house.
The port has been well maintained as has the airport and there are regular services with Auckland. The open-sided houses (fales) reflect the need to use the trade winds to keep sleepers cool at night and tropical fruits are abundant.
Samoa is the jumping off point (by sea only) to the very remote three atolls comprising the Tokelau group - technically a part of New Zealand.
Twenty years or so ago I visited this group having been appointed to recommend a realigning of the regular shipping service from Apia that is the sole physical lifeline with the world.
In the 1960s the New Zealand government, realising that there was no employment for the rapidly growing swell of young people, organised a major migration with work guarantees in the Rotorua forests and the Hutt Valley railway workshops. Now, almost two generations, later there is a large Tokelau population in New Zealand where they have become peaceable citizens. But constantly traveling home by sea to visit family connections.
Post Apia our journey will continue via a number of remote islands to terminate at the Solomon Islands - but more on that after. my return to Cambridge. And a Happy Easter to you all.
It’s Easter again …
By Murray Smith, Bridges Church
Good Friday and Easter Sunday are the central events of Easter. While many of us enjoy the holiday and perhaps justify the opportunity to indulge in a bit of chocolate and a hot cross bun or two, there’s many of us who aren’t sure how the death of Jesus on a cross is relevant to the season.
What’s the special relevance of the cross anyway?
Particularly at Easter, why does a cruel instrument the Romans devised for executing criminals feature so much and why is it a recognised symbol of Christian faith? Readily visible today, crosses adorn buildings and architecture, cemeteries, accident sites, inspire artworks, and very commonly are worn as jewellery. Perhaps there’s part of the problem… that it’s become just so familiar we don’t think too deeply about it!
I was talking randomly to a bubbly teenage girl once who really had her own style and flair going on with dress sense. Noticing a cross among her ‘adornments’ I asked her what wearing the cross meant to her and what her understanding of it happened to be. She laughed casually as she replied, “Oh it’s just a fashion statement!”
But what is the real message and the meaning behind the cross? In the New Testament of the Bible, the Apostle Paul explained in his letters to a first century audience, the real meaning of Jesus’ dying on a cross and what set His death apart from any other death by crucifixion. His words remain potent for us all…
“If Christ had not DIED, then RISEN, your faith would be meaningless and you would remain in your sins.”
There’s two earth-shattering realities here
that we should be aware of:
Firstly, Jesus the Son of God was put to death in the eternal plan of God to make atonement for the sins of all humanity … He alone could die to take the punishment for sin as He alone was sinless … an incredible exchange has been made possible since Jesus took upon Himself, the curse of sin and broken relationship with God. His death on the cross and His resurrection, made it possible for this exchange to take place.
Anyone receiving Jesus as Saviour and Lord and repenting, that means turning from their sin, can be ‘born again’ and receive God’s forgiveness, His gift of righteousness and of eternal life.
Secondly, Jesus rose from the dead. Hundreds of His followers attested to that fact as eyewitnesses - many testified to what they’d seen and they paid for that with their lives! You don’t put your life on the line for something you know is a myth.
Jesus was innocent of ANY wrongdoing, yet His blood was shed. He suffered and died on our behalf making the way for us to be reconciled to God. Christ’s death and His resurrection atoned for the sin of humanity, collectively and individually- our estrangement from God was dealt with; forgiveness and reconciliation has been made possible.
This Easter, may the cross remind us of this really good news! Anyone personally acknowledging their need of salvation, can receive by faith, the new life Jesus Christ alone offers through His death and resurrection!
FAITH IN WAIPĀ
Project helps me-a-t the need
By Viv Posselt
Another community collaboration has helped ease the lot for some of Cambridge’s struggling families.
The Salvation Army’s Foodbank was recently given a donation of meat valued at $2000 and purchased through the combined efforts of the Cambridge-based Freemasons Alpha Lodge No 81, Café Oasis, and Pak ‘n Save Te Awamutu.
This was the third such collaborative effort linking the trio. It started as a project picked by the then Lodge master Doug McWatters for his year in office and quickly drew in Café Oasis’ owner, Kon Kaewpraparn. Lodge members regularly
supported her business, and she wanted to build on the activities she already did to help the community.
Kon donated a portion of the $700 profit from the Lodge’s Valentine’s Day shindig at the café, the Lodge rounded that up to $1000, and The Freemasons Charity doubled it – making for a final amount of $2000.
Te Awamutu’s Pak ‘n Save store manager Nick Hewlett offered his best price on the deal, then accessed and split the meat into 400 packs made up of 500g each of either mince or sausage.
Alpha Lodge collected the packs and distributed them to the Foodbank last month.
All of those involved said they would be happy to continue the collaborative project into the future.
Salvation Army
community ministry coordinator Julieanne Seath described the group’s donation as ‘immense’ in terms of what it means for the Foodbank.
“We have noticed that donations going into our donation boxes in local supermarkets are not as plentiful as in the past, which means we are more reliant on support from the community,” she said.
“We get a certain amount of support from the [Salvation] Army and must raise the rest in other ways. The generosity of Alpha Lodge, Oasis Café and Te Awamutu Pak ‘n Save is of immense value to us. Meat is one of the most expensive items a family will buy, and this will make a real difference to so many people.”
By Viv Posselt
Author and singer/songwriter Holly Christina was part of the recent Cambridge Autumn Festival lineup with a talk at the library on the publication of the third novel in her ‘Harp and the Lyre’ trilogy.
Holly Christina – aka H.C Roberts – has blended her talents in the unusual climatefiction trilogy, adopting a ‘songs in a story’ concept she formulated about 10 years ago. Each of the novels features fantasy maps and original songs, embedded or unlocked via QR codes and intended to give her primarily teen-centric readers a thoroughly modern reading experience.
Describing it as ‘alternative fantasy for young adults’, she said the trilogy tells the story of a group of teens facing relevant issues, including the clash of ‘tech giants’
Harp and Lyre, gaming, climate change, influences, and the delicate crossover between real life and the online world.
Holly Christina learned to play the piano, the flute and guitar as a child. She settled on the guitar, enjoying the freedom it gave her to write songs, then recorded her first album at age 15. She has done numerous more since them and has been teaching guitar since she was 16.
She moved from Auckland to Cambridge in 2019. Aside from penning her trilogy, she dabbled in bellringing at St Andrew’s Church and wrote a song called ‘Cambridge’.
With the line now drawn under the ‘Harp and the Lyre’ trilogy, she plans to spend this year sharing more of her cli-fi, adventure world with a wider range of readers by taking her trilogy tour to other libraries and schools in New Zealand.
Alpha Lodge No. 81 members Scott Wallace, left, and Peter Colebourne, and Café Oasis owner Kon Kaewpraparn, talk through their third successful project.
Photo: Viv Posselt
Waisake grabs two
By Jesse Wood
Hautapu winger Waisake Salabiau helped his side to a 33-17 victory against University in Waikato club rugby on Saturday.
The Highlanders pre-season squad member crossed for two tries in the premier clash at the university fields in Hamilton. Lock David Morris, winger Manase Mataele and prop Levi Hazelton scored a try each while Quintony Ngatai kicked four conversions.
Fellow Waipā premier side Te Awamutu Sports fell 69-7 against Hamilton Marist on the artificial turf.
The Te Awamutu premier development side were on the wrong side of a 138-7 score line courtesy of Hamilton Marist B.
A silver lining came later that night when Tai Cribb, who has played for both clubs, made his Super Rugby début for the Highlanders.
Hautapu’s development side also took a tumble, losing 57-28 to their University counterparts.
In Division 1A, Pirongia had a bye week while Ōhaupō travelled to Morrinsville to beat Kereone 27-5.
Former King Country B squad members Cory and Trent Sargent both crossed the chalk in the five tries to one routing.
Ōhaupō B had a solid 41-17 win against Kereone B, with great guidance from club legend Lance Elrick at first five-eighth.
Leamington were beaten 31-12 by Southern United in Tokoroa and their B side also lost 44-15.
Hautapu women beat Waipā neighbours Kihikihi 62-10 at Cambridge Memorial Park.
In the women’s championship division, Pirongia were met by a tough Taupiri side, falling 54-10.
Two of the three Waipā teams in the under-21 grade succumbed to losses, while Leamington colts had a bye week.
Pirongia lost 27-3 against Thames Valley United and Te Awamutu Sports were beaten 46-14 by University.
The Hautapu under-21 side were victorious against Morrinsville Sports, 35-10.
Facing Morrinsville in the under-85kg competition, were the Kio Kio United Cattle Dogs who were beaten 41-7 by the Pukekos at Campbell Park.
Waisake Salabiau runs in one of his two tries.
Photo: Matt Gould
Bob’s award winning berries
Berry production on Bob Teal’s Cambridge orchard increased by almost 50 per cent last year.
Teal’s 1.8-hectare Bruntwood Gardens lifestyle block produced nearly 6000 trays of berries in the 2024 season for New World and Pak ‘n Save supermarkets, compared to 4000 the previous year.
Asked how he did it Teal, who described himself as a Second World War baby, said he had been doing some tweaking. By that Teal meant he had spent the last few years planting hundreds of mainly Taranaki, Ranui and Karaka
Black varieties of berry plants that align with early season maturity inside custom built tunnel houses with some plants producing up to a month before their unprotected counterparts. The property was a dairy farm when Teal bought it 44 years ago and within five years he had converted it to horticulture.
The block produces berries from October until January, and Teal is already thinking about how he can increase demand for next season.
Teal won the Agri-Business Management Award and
Innovation Award at this month’s Waikato Farm Environment Awards for his work and said he was “blown away”.
Judges were impressed with Teal’s 2.7-metre-wide and 100-metre-long tunnel houses, custom built from plastic piping, polythene and wood. They are narrow and spaced out enough not to require irrigation.
Teal has also converted pushchairs into picking trolleys, repurposed an electric golf cart so it can be used for spraying, and recycles cane growth for
Owl farmer in award final
By Chris Gardner
Jo Sheridan has been educating people about the dairy industry for nearly a quarter of a century.
This month Sheridan, demonstration manager at Owl Farm at St Peter’s School in Cambridge, was recognised for her work when she was named a finalist in the Dairy Woman of the Year Award.
“Future focus farming is a really rewarding thing to be recognised for, as it has been a great part of my life for 24 years,” she said.
Future Focus Farming is an initiative designed to help farming partners plan. It emphasises collaboration between
spouses, siblings, or business associates to co-design a shared vision for their farm’s future. The programme includes setting goals, creating action plans, and identifying key financial and performance indicators.
In the last six years at the 140 hectare
Owl Farm Sheridan has welcomed around 2000 visitors on to the farm each year, 40 per cent of who have never been on a dairy farm before.
Her focus is on sustainable practices, farmer education and youth engagement to inspire the next generation of farmers.
Small moments of connection with visitors who suddenly feel connection with the land or farm animals is what gets
Sheridan out of bed.
“Their eyes light up,” she said.
The farm held its annual open day on April 5 and Sheridan and her team welcomed 900 visitors over four hours.
Sheridan, born and raised in South Taranaki, moved to Pirongia in 2001 when she became a DairyNZ consulting officer. She later served as DairyNZ regional leader for the Waikato.
The mother of two boys also served on Pirongia School board for three years and is now a board member of Te Awamutu College.
She is is one of two Waikato dairy farmers up for the award, the other being Lara Sutton of Piarere.
mulch.
Judges said Teal had demonstrated strategic business acumen to maximise opportunities, coupled with exemplary entrepreneurship and a willingness to take risks. They were also impressed that he had adapted to changing situations and environments with resilience and vision and proactively addressed business challenges with practical, long-term solutions. Teal said the operation turned over enough cash to employ a small season staff and “more than comfortable directors salary”.
Bob Teal has grown award winning berries at Bruntwood Gardens near Cambridge.
Jo Sheridan on Owl Farm near Cambridge.
Photo: Mary Anne Gill
Buying a house – Joint tenants or tenants in common?
In New Zealand, there are two options for property co-ownership – joint tenants or tenants in common.
Joint Tenants
This option allows buyers to own property together with no distinct shares. If one passes away, the whole property is then owned by the surviving owner/s.
Scenario
Bill and Jenny are married with two children. They purchase a home together as joint tenants, when Bill passes, Jenny does not have to wait for probate to be granted and now owns the whole property on her own as survivor.
Tenants in Common
This allows buyers to hold specific shares, sometimes proportionate to their contribution to the property. If one dies, their share does not automatically go to the surviving owner/s, but is instead distributed pursuant to their Will.
Scenario
Tim and Susan marry in their forties. Tim has two children to a previous partner and Susan has none. They purchase a home as tenants in common in half shares. They make wills with Tim leaving his estate to his two children, and Jenny to her two sisters. They give each other a life interest to occupy the property. Tim passes away and Susan remains living in the property. On her death, Tim’s half share is distributed to his two children, whilst Susans’ is distributed to her two sisters. In summary, there are many factors to be considered when deciding on types of ownership and it is important to discuss with your lawyer.
Macayla Brdanovic
It comes back to water…
Tor Pedersen isn’t waiting for regulations to tell him how to be a better farmer.
The 27-year-old dairy farmer went as far as moving the main race to improve stream health and help freshwater mussels and koura thrive on the family farm.
His family has been farming 300 hectares on Broomore Farm in Waitetuna Valley Road near Raglan since 1967, so he feels a sense of responsibility as the agricultural sector awaits clarity of Waikato Regional Council’s Plan Change One.
“Everything we do comes back to the water,” he said after he was named Waikato Farm Environment Awards supreme winner this month.
Pedersen has fenced waterways to keep stock out and carried out riparian planting to protect and enhance the ecosystem.
Broomore Farm has an estimated four kilometres of major waterways, plus their tributaries.
“We need to keep the water as clean as we can. We have got so many waterways on the farm; we are just trying to look after them.”
Pedersen’s work also won him a water protection award as it aligns with Plan Change One’s goal of improving freshwater quality in the region.
“I was really happy with the water protection award,” Pedersen said. He is not worrying about the coming regulations.
“It is what it is,” he said. “We can’t do much about it. We have just got to work with it. All we are trying to do is future proof the farm so that we can are able to keep on farming into the future.”
He also won a biodiversity award, livestock farm award, and a sustainability and stewardship award.
Pedersen was raised on the farm and educated at Te Uku Primary School, Maeroa Intermediate School in Hamilton and St Paul’s Collegiate School in Hamilton.
He worked for a brief time as a mechanic before returning to farming.
He has been involved in the dairy operation since 2018 and began contract milking in 2022.
The farm runs 250 dairy cows on 100 hectares and an additional 50 hectares is used as a support block. The remaining land is a mix of exotic and native trees, including significant areas of untouched or regenerating native bush.
Land restoration has been a priority, and vulnerable areas have been retired and more than 30,000 trees planted in five years.
Animal welfare is a top priority, with animal breeds carefully matched to the farm’s challenging topography. This is supported by a herd-breeding policy focused on animal health and liveweight.
Farm Environment Award judges said Pedersen’s approach to farming was inspiring. They commended his deep understanding of livestock movement and his approach to adapting infrastructure and forest and land
management practices to improve waterway protection.
Judges recognised his strong understanding of cow health and production metrics, as well as his effective use of industry tools to guide decision-making. They were particularly impressed by his appreciation for his family and wider network, recognising his parents’ role in expanding his knowledge and enhancing farm management.
New test kit in the making
A new low-cost diagnostic tool could significantly improve food crop production in developing countries.
Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) scientists are part of an international team developing a rapid test which uses a combination of chemistries to identify plant disease and will allow growers to remove unhealthy plants in the field early in their growing season. That will enable them to increase crop production of food sources such as maize.
MPI’s Plant Health and Environment Laboratory (Phel) scientists are working
with researchers at Northwestern University in Illinois, to build the tool, which has shown positive results in field trials in New Zealand and Kenya.
The aim of the project is to produce a test line read out system, like Covid Rat tests, that farmers can use in the field to test their crops for specific diseases. Phel Team Manager Virology and Phytoplasmology, Jeremy Thompson, says early prototypes of the test were trialled in New Zealand for detecting virus infection in symptomless tomato plants.
“More recently the tests have been
trialled on food crops in Kenya’s Maseno area where beans, sweet potato and maize are some of the main staple crops.
The project is funded by a US$1 million grant from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.
Thompson says the test could also be used by farmers in New Zealand and other developed countries to improve crop production.
“The project is looking to make the technology available to New Zealand farmers and growers to test for specific viruses or diseases in crops.
Dairy farmer Tor Pedersen, 27, wants to do the right thing for the environment on the family dairy farm.
Water quality at risk
By Stuart Kneebone, Waipā-King Country Councillor
Waikato Regional Council (WRC) recently approved a submission on the government’s proposed new wastewater environmental performance standards that are intended to be rolled out across New Zealand.
Taumata Arowai is the water services regulator for NZ and is managing this consultation process on behalf of the government. Taumata Arowai was established by the government following the Havelock North campylobacter outbreak in 2016.
District and city councils throughout NZ have consents to discharge treated wastewater and stormwater.
Regional councils are the authorities responsible for the consenting of wastewater and stormwater discharges. Regional councils and their communities have the authority to set limits for discharges to land and water via consent conditions that reflect the values of the local community and the values and attributes of the receiving environment.
However, this change proposes changes that affect how wastewater standards are made and implemented. The amendments direct councils to implement any requirements imposed as part of a wastewater standard in a new consent, and concerningly, they mean that regional councils cannot include any conditions in a consent which are more or less restrictive than the new standards dictate.
Regional councils will still be the regulator but will have very little say on behalf of their communities on what these new standards are. Of real concern is that many of the existing consented municipal wastewater discharges in the Waikato have contaminant discharge standards that are of higher quality than what these new proposed standards will require. Meaning that implementation of these new standards would see an increase in contaminants
being discharged into the environment, effectively undoing significant work and investment that has been made by councils and their communities upgrading their wastewater treatment plants across the region.
This also will have the effect of undoing the work that other sectors such as farming have been doing with riparian planting and other measures to improve water quality.
Meaning if we are to continue on our journey of improving water quality across the region, other sectors such as farming will have to take up the slack.
A good example of this is the Lake Taupō Protection Project that was initiated to maintain the water quality in Lake Taupō. It imposed very restrictive requirements on farmers in the Taupō catchment, requiring them to reduce their stocking rates and associated production in order that a 20 per cent reduction in nitrogen discharge from both farming and industry could be made. Those reductions are now locked in place for 999 years.
To assist those farmers in making that transition, every ratepayer in the Waikato region contributed approximately $10/ratepayer/ annum for 15 years; $81 million of public money was invested. These standards will in effect undo all of that work and investment. WRC has submitted strongly that it does not support what is proposed and explained why.
And for those interested, the Ministry for the Environment recently released its three yearly state of the environment report.
While the report contains some positive stories, it also highlights some concerning issues with regards to our environment, and the risks that these issues present to the quality of life for future generations.
‘Mullet’ Fieldays a success
By Chris Gardner
More punters visited Fieldays last year and spent more money on products and services, according to the University of Waikato economic impact report.
The four-day National Agricultural Fieldays attracted 106,000 people through the gates at Mystery Creek in 2024, creating $528 million worth of value to the New Zealand economy. That was 1000 people more than 2023 and a nearly 10 per cent increase in economic value from $482.
Last year’s visitors were more purposeful and focussed on good deals, purchasing products or services, or research, head of customer and strategic engagement
Taryn Storey said at a media briefing. “That’s a really exciting thing,” Storey said. The same survey in 2023 showed more people were coming for a day out.
Punters in 2024 came to buy the latest and greatest, connect on a family day out, watch competitions, learn from speaking events, and network.
Exhibitors attended Fieldays to sell products and services, connect with existing and new customers, collect customer insights, build brand awareness, educate
the industry and showcase new product development.
The 2024 event attracted 49 international visitors from nine countries and 17 embassies were represented.
Storey said Fieldays had adopted a “mullet strategy” for 2025, balancing mainstream appeal with niche offerings.
“Business at the front, partying at the back,” she said.
“On Friday and Saturday, what can we put in place that supports that?”
Storey said Fieldays was experiencing a volunteer drought in 2025, having recruited only two thirds of the 150 volunteers needed to run the event from June 11 to 14.
The charitable organisation
was still seeking 48 volunteers to help support the event.
Volunteers are needed for every job from directing car parking and entry ticket scanning, to hosting guests and collecting rubbish.
“It’s difficult to get people to take three days off work if they are working,” Storey said.
Asked whether a volunteer shortage had been a problem before, Storey said it was not unusual.
“We do struggle every year,” she said.
But she had not spoken publicly of the struggle.
The logistics of matching volunteers to jobs was also a challenge, she said.
Storey said volunteering had been part of the fibre of the event since it started.
16. Adept (4)
Inspiring (8)
Gambling venue (6)
Large snake (6)
Lament (3)
Decapitate (6)
Seaside golf courses (5)
Scapula (8,5)
Esteem (7)
Unimportant people or things (colloq) (5,4)
Immediate (13)
or
(poetic) (3) 3. Range (5)
(colloq) (3)
UDDER
UKELELE
ULTIMATE UMBRELLA UMPIRE UNBEND UNCLE UNDO UNDULY UNEVEN UNICYCLE UNIVERSE
UNKEMPT
EBLMGUNIVERSEINUBI
KULUIUEOGJZOUPNGNQ IRITUTVUMBRELLAVUH LCHEPTESPUEYLLAUSU NHPNPENURBANEISLUD UIUSERUUNKEMPTWTPN ENZIRNUXORIOUSXITE LEMLMUNSETTLEULMHB CPSAOUUXHUXCKPBARN YURASKRETEUTMOSTUU CKRUTKNNEDRUUNCESI ICFGSOUIEUKELELETU NIUUEUTSAHUPSTAIRS UPUPNNURLYUNDULYHT ONNBUSRUUMPIREDRGK JUCEXUZUVNUNKINDLY UNLAERNUUEDARGPUEJ FIETYEUNRESOLVEDLR
UPHILL UPON UPPERMOST UPSET UPSTAIRS UPTHRUST URBANE URCHIN URGE URN
URSINE USED
USHER USUALLY USURP UTENSIL UTMOST UTOPIA UTTER
UVULA
UXORIOUS
Across: 1. Stamen, 4. Caring, 9. Aroma, 10. Arrange, 11. Suspect, 13. Each, 14. Predecessor, 17. Mess, 18. Parasol, 21. Radiant, 22. Titan, 24. Barred, 25. Loathe.
Down: 1. Sparse, 2. Ado, 3. Evade, 5. Airless, 6. Innocuous, 7. Glen, 8. Participate, 12. Surrender, 15. Disease, 16. Plunge, 19. Ratio, 20. Drab, 23. Tut.
Waipā bowlers have mixed success
Central Cambridge Bowling Club held a celebration for the team last week which recently came runner up at the national interclub sevens event held in Wellington earlier this month.
Gary Cotter, Brent Hawken, Taylor Horn, Jess Russell, Tony Fabling, Mohe Tausinga, Bryan Allen and coach-manager John Filmer were pipped at the post by Paritutu of Taranaki in the final.
Cotter was defeated 21-11 by Dean Elgar in the singles, while Russell, Fabling, Tausinga and Allen beat John Zittersteijn, Kurt Smith, Daryl Read and Cameron Horo 20-7 in the fours. It came down to the pairs
match which Horn and Hawken lost by one shot on the last bowl, having led 16-5 at one stage.
The Pirongia women’s team of Kim Bardsley, Rebecca Smith, Denise Te Momo, Lynda Bennett,
Julia Lile, Vicki Coll, Lisa Mundell and Gaylene Kanawa lost to Burnside Canterbury in the quarter finals again coming down to the pairs.
Meanwhile Heather Davison and Helen Kay of Cambridge Bowling Club took out the under five years Bowls Waikato ladies pairs competition in Putāruru earlier this month.
The event, for those who
have played less than five years, gives newer players the chance to experience the cut and thrust of open competition against others. In the final against Julie Logan and Lorraine Stirling of Morrinsville, Heather and Helen remained calm despite dropping and then regaining a four. There was a great deal of skill and camaraderie shown by all four players
The Cambridge Central Bowling Club team that finished runner up at the national interclub championships in Johnsonville, from left back: John Filmer Manager, Taylor Horn, Mohe Tausinga, Jesse Russell, Tony Fabling; front: Brian (Chipper) Allen, Gary Cotter and Brent Hawken. Photo: Supplied
Heather Davison and Helen Kay of Cambridge Bowling Club
bayleys.co.nz/2350889
Karapiro 1053 and 1055 Taotaoroa Road
Lifestyle sections with stunning views
Deadline Sale
Looking for the perfect spot to build your dream home? These two lifestyle sections offer a rare opportunity to enjoy country living while staying close to town.
Lot 1 - 5,020 sqm (more or less)
Lot 2 - 6,949 sqm (more or less)
Both sections feature gently sloping terrain with an elevated outlook and a picturesque gully backdrop. These sites provide easy building platforms, making your new home build a breeze.
Location Benefits:
Positioned between Cambridge and Matamata, offering the best of both worlds - rural tranquility with town conveniences just a short drive away.
Don't miss out on these affordable lifestyle sections - contact us today for more information or to arrange a viewing.
Deadline Sale closes Thursday 1st May, 2025 at 4.00pm, (unless sold prior), 34 Victoria Street, Cambridge View By appointment Web pb.co.nz/CBL201430
David McGuire
M 027 472 2572
E david.mcguire@pb.co.nz
Teresa Moore
M 027 288 0553
E teresa.moore@pb.co.nz
Leamington 65 Shakespeare Street
Development opportunity on Shakespeare
• 1024m2 commercial site • 300m2 (approx) warehouse/workshop/offices • 530m2 sealed yard with street access • Vacant possession • Excellent development potential. Located on busy Shakespeare Street and nestled between Pet Stock and Cambridge Hire, this property presents as an ideal development site in a high-profile location. Whether you're looking to develop or utilise the existing workshop, office space, and large sealed yard, this property presents endless possibilities for a wide range of business ventures. Call today for more information.
Cambridge 1532 Cambridge Road
Boundary lines are indicative only
Prime section for your dream home!
Nestled between Cambridge and Hamilton, this fantastic 4942 sqm section is nicely contoured, set in a highly sought-after location and offers the perfect opportunity to build your dream home. Being fully fenced and with power already connected to the gate. this property is ready to go. The land is subject to covenants, ensuring a quality neighbourhood for years to come. This section is situated within close drive to Cambridge high school, middle school, several local primary schools and St Peters school. A few minutes away you will find world-class cycling and walking trails perfect for those who enjoy outdoor adventure. Whether you're looking to build a family home or invest in a peaceful lifestyle, this prime piece of land is the perfect canvas to make your vision a reality.
Don't miss out on this great opportunity
12.00pm, Thu 29th May, 2025, (unless sold prior), 34 Victoria Street, Cambridge 3434
pb.co.nz/CBL202605
- If you’re looking for a 195m² home with solid bones and endless potential, this is your chance to create something truly special!
- The open-plan kitchen, dining & lounge area provide a great space for everyday living and entertaining. An island bench and extra spacious pantry/scullery make the kitchen area very practical.
- Comfort is covered year-round with both a heat pump and a log fire.
- Spacious garage with a workbench, ideal for DIY projects or extra storage.
- Welcome to a rare opportunity to secure a much-loved family home on a large 1012 sqm (more or less) corner section.
- Property Features: Elevated views, Generous living spaces filled with natural light and warmth, Ample storage with window bench seats in living areas, Fireplace and heat pump.
- Plenty of potential to renovate, extend, or simply enjoy as-is.
- A delicious selection and variety of fruit trees offer tasty treats throughout the seasons.
Tranquil Setting with River Views
- Positioned on a generous 790m² (more or less) block in highly sought-after Cambridge East.
- The master wing offers a true retreat—complete with a private lounge, ensuite & tranquil views over the swimming pool & spa.
- Designed with both family living and entertaining in mind, the heart of the home features a well-appointed kitchen flowing into one of three light-filled living spaces.
- For year-round comfort, enjoy the cozy ambience of a wood burner and gas fireplace, complemented by ducted heating throughout.
- The expansive design includes four generously sized bedrooms, with the separate private master suite serving as a true retreat. Enjoy the luxury of your own balcony, walk in robe, and ensuite.
- The heart of the home features a spacious, open-plan layout, perfect for family living.
- Outside, the property continues to impress with its dedicated river viewing platform, tranquil pond & triple garage (plus attic storage) provides ample space for vehicles, storage, or even a home gym.
- Multiple living spaces that cater to both relaxation and entertaining.
Graham Ban
Paulette Bell
Debbie Towers
Trevor Morris
Eilish Russell
Marisa Payne
Amy de Clifford
Taylor Bourke
Rachael Seavill
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Contact
$1,650,000 $1,695,000
HARRIS, Suzanne Vena
– (The Lotto Lady). Passed away surrounded by family at Waikato Hospital on Monday, April 14, 2025. Aged 65 years. Dearly loved wife of Kerry. Loved mother & mother-in-law to Shane & Megan, and mumzie of Richie & Kayla. Cherished grandma of Bella and Issac. “Mumzie to many and Lotto Lady to most”
A celebration of Sue’s life will be held at The Hamilton Park Chapel, Morrinsville Road, Newstead, on Saturday, April 19, 2025 at 11am followed by a private cremation. Messages to the Harris Family can be sent c/3 Hallys Lane, Cambridge, 3434 or in Sue’s online tribute book at www.grinters. co.nz
PROCTOR, Dawn Patricia
– Peacefully passed away at St Kilda Care Home, surrounded by family on Sunday, April 13, 2025, aged 81 years. Devoted partner to Bill for 50 years.
Dearly loved mother to Greg, Tony & Helen, and the late Mark. Loved Nan to her grandchildren, and great grandchildren. A celebration of Dawn’s life will be held at Woodside Estate, Woodside Road, Matangi on Thursday, April 17, 2025 at 11am. Messages to the Proctor Family can be sent c/- 3 Hallys Lane, Cambridge 3434 or in Dawn’s online tribute book at www.grinters. co.nz
WANTED for cash - estate
ADVERTISING TERMS OF TRADE
CALF MILK WANTED
GRAY, Lindsay
The family of the late Lindsay Gray extend our sincere thanks for all the expressions of sympathy, cards, floral tributes, attendance at his service, and continuing support shown to us in our recent sad loss. He was so loved and will be missed forever.
Jobs, terrific bargains, useful services, legal notices and announcements – these are some of the great things you’ll find in your newspaper’s classified ad section. Connect to your neighbours in a proven reliable way.
When buyers and sellers need to connect…
CHURCH NOTICES
Cambridge Seventh-Day Adven�st Church
Cr. Shakespeare & Browning Streets Bible Study Each Saturday: 9.30am – 10.45am
Worship Service: 11.00am
Like us on Facebook: h�ps://www.facebook.com/cambridge.sda.9 email: cambridge.sda.nz@gmail.com
Phone: 027 677 6433
Hope Channel – Freeview Ch 27, Sky 204
We offer detailed study of the Bible and inspiring worship experiences. All Welcome.
NOTIFICATION OF INTENTION TO CONSIDER TEMPORARY ROAD CLOSURES
Bocock ’s Calf Rearing Pete 027 433 1440 Mark 0274746917
Calf Milk Wanted
Ph Deb 027 490 1007 or Shay 027 373 3732
WORK WANTED
PANELBEATER available for onsite repairs. Accident damage – rust repairs –motorbike tank and plastic fairings – welding. No insurance work. Ph Geoff 021 464 687
all copy made up by Good Local Media Ltd remains the property of Good Local Media Ltd. If supplied ready to print, copy is owned by the advertiser. Publication day is Thursday for urban deliveries and Friday morning for rural deliveries. Specifications: For supplied adverts: PDF/X – 4 spec, fonts pathed
period starting from the date the first ad publishes. Rate bracket e.g. 6 insertions, 12 insertions etc. chosen allows ad sizes to vary within the rate bracket. If the number of insertions chosen is not met then a bulk charge will be applied at the end/cancellation of your schedule based on correct rate reflective of the number of ads published e.g. if you have chosen the 12 insertion rate and only publish 6 insertions, the bulk charge will be the difference in price between the 6 insertion rate and 12 insertion rate multiplied by the number of ads published. You pay the rate reflective of the number of ads you actually publish.
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Limitation of Liability: Good Local Media Limited (including its employees, contractors, officers, or agents) shall not be liable for a failure or breach arising from anything beyond their reasonable control e.g. an act of God, fire, earthquake, strike, explosion, or electrical supply failure, unavoidable accident or machine breakdown; and shall not be liable in tort, contract, or otherwise for loss of any kind (whether indirect loss, loss of profits, or consequential loss) to the Advertiser or any other person.
Waipa District Council will consider an application to close the following roads to ordinary vehicular traffic, to facilitate the New Zealand National Fieldays at Mystery Creek Events Centre on Wednesday, June 11 to Saturday, June 14 2025.
Between 5:45am to 11am each day:
• McEldownie Road – whole road
• Mystery Creek Road – between Mellow Road and McEldownie Road
• Mystery Creek Road – between Gate 2 and Gate 5 of Mystery Creek Events Centre
Between 1pm to 8pm each day:
• McEldownie Road – whole road
• Mystery Creek Road – between Mellow Road and McEldownie Road
• Mystery Creek Road – between Gate 2 and Gate 5 of Mystery Creek Events Centre
Residents will have full access during road closures. The application will be considered under the Tenth Schedule of the Local Government Act 1974 Emergency Services will have complete right of way at all times during road closure.
Any objections to the proposal must be lodged with Waipa District Council, in writing, to events@waipadc.govt.nz, before 4.00pm on Friday 2 May 2025. Please include the nature of the objection and the grounds for it.
See the Privacy Statement on the Council’s website for further information.
For more information, please contact Waipā District Council on 0800 924 723
Steph O’Sullivan CHIEF EXECUTIVE
Students at climate summit
Briefs…
By Jesse Wood
Secondary school enviro leaders from across Waipā will attend Waikato Regional Council’s annual climate summit at Te Awamutu College’s O-Tāwhao Marae next month.
Cambridge schools are among those attending.
“Enviro schools has deep roots in the Waikato. It was actually piloted in the Waikato over 20 years ago. The pilot schools in Hamilton are still going strong,” Enviro schools regional coordinator Michelle Daly said.
“Enviro schools is all about creating a healthy, peaceful sustainable world.
“Part of that summit is to engage young people in leadership conversations and build their communication skills so they can talk to their peers and teachers about climate change. We also engage nature connection.
“They go out and experience community projects. The best thing about this summit is for them to connect with others across the region.”
There are now more than 1600 New Zealand-based enviro schools, reaching about 400,100 students from Year 1-13.
In the Waipā region alone there are 25 schools (69 per cent in the district) involved in the programme.
Five Waipā kindergartens are also under the enviro umbrella.
The list of Waipa Enviro schools are:
Cambridge High School, Cambridge Kindergarten, Cambridge Middle, Cambridge Primary schools, Central Kids Kindergartens – Hazelmere, Central Kids Kindergartens – Kihikihi,
CAMBRIDGE OPEN HOMES
HARCOURTS
Goodwood, Hautapu, Horahora schools, James Gray Kindergarten, Karāpiro School, Leamington Kindergarten, Leamington, Ngāhinapōuri, Ōhaupō, Pāterangi, Pekapekarau, Pirongia, Pōkuru, Puahue, Pukeatua, St Patrick’s Catholic (Te Awamutu), St Peter’s Catholic (Cambridge), St Peter’s (Cambridge) schools, Te Awamutu College, Te Awamutu Primary, Te Miro, Te Pahū, Waipā Christian, and Wharepapa South schools.
Waikato rates up
Waikato district rates will go up by 4.25 per cent from July 1 but ease back next and subsequent years. The council signed off its draft Long Term Plan last week which outlines the council’s proposed priorities, projects and spending over the next years. Public consultation runs until May 11. The proposed joint council controlled organisation with Hamilton City Council around water will take $1.3 billion of Waikato’s expenditure from the second year onwards.
Owner a finalist
Good Local Media publisher David Mackenzie is one of six finalists in the Waipā Networks Business Leader of the Year Award joining David Hall (Cambridge Resthaven), Anita Crowe (Construction Advantage), Blair Paterson (Homebrew Coffee), Nadia Hauā (NZ Louvres) and Patricia Ross (Ross & Co Hair Design) at a gala dinner in Mystery Creek Events Centre on May 2 where the winner will be announced. Good Local Media publishes three community newspapers in Cambridge, Te Awamutu and King Country, the monthly Waikato Business News and runs the annual Waipā Home and Leisure Show at Lake Karāpiro.
Five Stags unlisted
Pirongia’s Five Stags is no longer up for sale, after owner Nora Fu failed to find a buyer for the $1 million valued pub and restaurant. Fu, sole shareholder of Night Pearl Ltd, owner of the pub, last year and now wants to lease it out instead.
Enviro leader Toby Rothery helps the younger students water the herb gardens at Pirongia School. Photo: Jesse Wood
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