Inside today…
Crown’s card
A card to treasure: Thelma Hubbard celebrated her 100th birthday last week – and had a card from Buckingham Palace to prove it. Read her story today on page 9.
Racing to class
What are a couple of famous cups doing at Goodwood School? Steph Bell Jenkins finds out today on page 5.
High school hongi
Cambridge High School teacher Mahaki Corbett welcomes a whānau member to the pōwhiri. Mary Anne Gill was at the welcome for Year 9 students – see page 6.
Robbed at knifepoint
By Mary Anne Gill
Rod Beare thought nothing of it when there was a knock on his front door about 10.30pm.
Somebody must need help, he thought, and sure enough it was a young man who said he had run out of petrol and asking for a lift to a nearby petrol station.
They got into Rod’s Toyota Ipsum with its distinctive number plate – OB1 OB2 – and headed into town. But within minutes, Rod felt something pressed to his throat.
“He told me to pull over or he would cut my throat. I thought it was a knife.
“Oh my God, I just fell out. The car was still moving. The guy jumped into the driver’s seat and drove off.”
It was Sunday January 19. Rod and his wife Judy – who was snoozing in her chair - had been watching Big Bash League from Australia on the television when the man knocked on the door.
“I went to the door, and it was a young chap,” said Rod.
“He said ‘I’m really sorry to bother you this time of night but I’ve run out of petrol’.”
He let him into the house. Judy woke with a start seeing the man standing in front of her. He was nicely dressed, she recalls, smart shorts and a top but smelt heavily of alcohol.
“I just thought it was somebody maybe from next door or whatever,” said Judy.
“If I saw him again, I don’t think I’d recognise him. You know what it’s like
when you wake up like that.”
The man asked if he could use Rod’s mobile phone to ring his auntie, which he did acknowledging now that his family and friends have since asked him if his middle name is ‘Muggins’.
“I’m just one of those trusting people,” said Rod.
The couple, both 76, moved to Cambridge from Auckland seven years ago to be closer to their daughter and grandchildren thinking they would get a quiet retirement in a safer community.
“So anyway, they went away in Rod’s car, and he left his drink bottle sitting out there on the doorstep,” said Judy.
neighbours. They reported that earlier in the night they had noticed a car out on the road with a flickering light, like a cigarette lighter going off and on.
Police told them people were phoning in from Hamilton with reports the couple’s car – with its distinctive number plate – had been seen hooning around the city. The plate was a gift from their son-in-law and is not a Star Wars reference – OB stands for “old bastard”.
They have had the car for nine years and had just paid for a 12 month warrant of fitness. The registration is valid until August. It had half a tank of petrol, and the insurance company direct debit came out the next day.
Insurance has paid out but with a $400 excess and current value, it does not give them much to pay for a replacement. They have their eye on a
They are looking at getting CCTV cameras in, but they are not sure whether the landlord will allow it, and they fear if The News reveals where they live, that others will try the same thing to them and/or their neighbours. Rod’s faith and trust in people has been
He worked in Waitakere Hospital’s Emergency Department in reception for years and Judy was a security officer at a timber company, so they have seen the best
“No-one’s going to get help from me again. That’s it,” said Rod. Police are appealing to the public for further information using the reference number 250120/7559.
PICTURED: The trusting natures of Auckland imports Rod and Judy Beare in Cambridge have gone after their car was taken at knife point. Photo: Mary Anne Gill.
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Woke talk
I was somewhat perplexed to read the comments of Jo Gread, Waipā District Council Governance Manager re proposed changes to meeting dates and information.
Gread is quoted as saying: “the move would ensure a focused workplace, efficiency of staff time and council resources, clear alignment with the calendar year and a commitment to strategic, effective and focused decision making”.
I am somewhat perplexed by the woke speak in her quote, but I am more perplexed to think that the council is not currently operating in this manner, and changes need to be made to do so. Thought these processes would be fundamental for good business practice and management.
David Natzke Cambridge
Delegated authority
Contracts of up to $10 million – in the case of urgency – are to be delegated to (Waipā) mayor Susan O’Regan and committee chairs Clare St Pierre, Liz Stolwyk, Andrew Brown
On the beat with
and Marcus Gower.”
All the above have been party to the contracts let for the road changes and cycle paths that were rushed through before the change of government.
Geoff Boxell Kihikihi
No reply
Thanks for the article in (Cambridge News January 30) regarding councils “behind closed doors” decision to move to Wednesday meetings. I have had some very bad luck with council over issues I have emailed them about.
I get no replies. I have talked to a councillor about this issue, and he promised he would get back to me. I sent him the information that council should see, and I got no replies again. I am not satisfied these councillors wish to be transparent with how they spend our money. Testament to my concerns is that even though I have emailed every councillor including the mayor, I have had no replies to any of my emails. Frankly I no longer trust they are working in our best interest.
Emergencies: take note
An Emergency Services vehicle (Police, Ambulance or Fire) responding under lights and sirens, means we are attending the most urgent of jobs.
For police, this means that serious harm is in progress, and we need to get to our destination as a priority. The majority of road users see and hear our approach and pull safely to the side. Unfortunately, there are others however, who hold their line in the lane, sometimes even when others in front of them - and even on the other side of the road - are already pulling over to let us pass.
My ambulance colleagues tell me they often approach an intersection, for example Fort and Duke streets, only to have cars continue driving across in front of them, failing to let them though. Under the Land Transport Act 1998, it is an offence to fail to give way to lights and sirens when signalled in such a circumstances. More importantly though, your actions are delaying an emergency response to someone in need. Please be aware of your surroundings when driving and act appropriately.
In other news, Cambridge police are aware of the annoyance and risk posed to the public by two dirt bikes that have been seen riding dangerously around town over the past month. We have taken positive steps forward with those investigations, resulting in a reduction in offending. If you see such offending and have CCTV or dashcam footage, please do let us know at the time.
In Te Awamutu, off duty officers recently noticed a known male driving a stolen vehicle with altered plates. They followed him to an address and notified on duty staff, whilst keeping watch until police units arrived. The person was located in the garage of the address and arrested. He has appeared in court charged with driving offences and theft of the vehicle.
Petrol drive offs represent one of our highest reported dishonesty crimes in Waipā. Offenders often rack up multiple offences and use different registration plates and vehicles to get around. Recently one such recidivist was detected after a car was reported for fleeing police and the driver for stealing over Auckland Anniversary Weekend. A new attempted drive off was detected at a service station in Karapiro and staff locked their pumps and immediately called police.
Units responded and some deft investigation identified the male driver, who was already wanted by police. The vehicle was then tracked, while a plan with additional units was put in place. A coordinated response resulted in the tyres of the vehicle being spiked by police, abruptly ending a crime spree. A subsequent search of the vehicle further located a firearm. The driver was arrested and appeared facing multiple charges in court.
Deborah Harper
Cambridge
Bill views
Thank you to regional councillor Clyde Graf for exposing the Waikato Regional Council’s clumsy and inappropriate submission to the Treaty Principles Bill. The fact the submission was written by staff and not councillors highlights the weakness of some councillors to think for themselves and also their lack of understanding of the intent and wording of the Treaty. Co-governance and co-management are not referred to in the simple straight forward Treaty document. The Article the First of the Treaty states “the Chiefs assembled including Chiefs not present at the assembly hereby cede absolutely to the Queen of England and forever the Government of all their lands”. I reference Sir Apirana Ngata, one of Maoridom’s greatest leaders and a prominent New Zealand statesman who published an explanation in 1922.
Councillors should concentrate on core responsibilities and leave politics out of it. They could however make a personal submission and avoid alienating themselves from rate payers.
Rod Wise Leamington
Noise control
As I live near the Town Hall, I am happy with the move of the siren to the top of the Fire Station.
Now the siren has moved to the centre of our town, I feel for all the businesspeople and customers who have to suffer the sound of it. I was there one day when the siren went off and we could hardly hear ourselves talking, let alone thinking.
Senior Constable DEB HANN
Wednesday it is
Waipā councillors rubber stamped a staff recommendation around meeting days at a council meeting last week - put to them and verbally approved in a workshop last year. The public was aware of their decision before they voted –revised days for Wednesday meetings appeared in adverts in Good Local Media a week earlier.
Cycling festival
Cambridge’s Cycling Festival will revert to Anzac Day afternoon following what organisers say was “serious community consultation (and a lot of thinking)”. The popular event made its debut nine years ago and a move to March 23 was mooted for this year, but retailers became concerned that two significant street closuresfor the earlier Maadi Cup parade and the cyclingwould impact trade.
Tutty steps up
Waipā District Council’s compliance manager Karl Tutty has been appointed Civil Defence Local Controller by the Waikato Civil Defence Emergency Management. Tutty is also deputy chief of the Te Awamutu Volunteer Fire Brigade.
Road blocked
The northbound lanes of SH1 at Fergusson Gully Road near Piarere were blocked on Monday morning following a truck breakdown.
What it cost
Good Local Media readers should know soon how much it cost Waipa District Council to host the Party in the Park in Cambridge on December 13 last year. The request for costs was lodged as a Local Government Official Information and Meetings Act request on January 9 giving the council until this Friday – 20 working days - to respond.
Tapping into Waipā
By Chris Gardner and Mary Anne Gill
Waipā’s northern neighbours are wooing the council in an apparent effort to get the local authority to join their water services company.
Discussions were held behind closed doors in Te Awamutu yesterday (Wednesday) between Hamilton, Waikato and Waipā districts and were believed to have included a sweetener deal around water meters and the growth issues the three of them face.
The public excluded workshop comes as merger debate among Waikato’s 12 local authorities – fuelled by the need to sort out their water arrangements - has been rekindled.
If Waipā went with Hamilton and Waikato over water, organisations like Waikato Chamber of Commerce –which argues council amalgamations should be dominating this local body election year – would ramp up the pressure.
News of the water meeting came as a surprise to Ōtorohanga and Waitomo mayors Max Baxter and
John Robertson who both said it was critical to have Waipā in the Waikato Water Done Well deal with them, Matamata-Piako, South Waikato, Thames-Coromandel and Taupō.
Waipā agreed to a non-binding head of agreement with the rural councils in November.
Waitomo and Ōtorohanga councils are already facing ratepayer revolt over double digit rate increases and Robertson is in the “it’s time to merge” camp.
“It no longer makes any sense for our two King Country councils to duplicate administration and pass costs onto ratepayers the way we do,” he said.
Baxter said there was “a real need” for Waipā to be in the water mix.
“If Waipā left, that would change the whole dynamic and would be to the detriment of Waikato Water Done Well,” Baxter said. “It’s just a whole new discussion.”
Baxter said he also understood the need to explore all options.
“It would be poor form if they did not investigate opportunities.”
His views on a merger with Waitomo are no secret – he wants Ōtorohanga to look north towards Waipā.
Robertson said Waipā district was “really important” to the Waikato Water Done Well proposal.
“It’s the biggest council in terms of population,” he said.
An estimated 62,700 people live in Waipa - a quarter of the 207,000 residents in the regional proposal.
With population comes the ability to collect rates to fund capital projects.
“I am very keen to see all seven councils that have signed up to stay in the group,” said Robertson.
“If we can do that then the option is very feasible. I have no reason to believe that Waipā won’t stay with us because we can make a great option.”
Both Waipā and Waikato installed meters eight years ago while Hamilton water usage is included in general rates. The News understands Hamilton would need to commit to a targeted city only rate to pay for their installation.
In a statement last year, Waipā
mayor Susan O’Regan said “this decision will likely be the biggest one our elected members will face as a council. It will impact Waipā for many generations to come.”
Under Local Water Done Well legislation, all councils are required to produce a water services delivery plan by September – the month before local body elections - ensuring future delivery is financially sustainable and meets quality standards.
Hamilton mayor Paula Southgate said the city had always been open about being prepared to have discussions with Waikato local authorities, particularly Waipā as it was a neighbour.
Waikato Water Done Well advisor and former Matamata-Piako District Council chief executive Don McLeod said it was difficult to speculate on the outcome of yesterday’s talks.
“We are getting to the point where decisions have to be made.”
Financial modelling was underway that would help councils - and their ratepayers - decide on the matter, he said.
Toast to 10 years en français
By Viv Posselt
Parlez-vous français? Perhaps not, but hundreds of locals now do thanks in part to a decade of classes run by a couple of women passionate about the language.
February marks the start of a new year of ‘French Together Cambridge’, casual lessons run by Cherie Cartwright and Sandrine Pryor.
They launched the classes 10 years ago and have seen them growing like topsy ever since. When The News caught up with them last week, neither Cherie nor Sandrine was sure why that was. They mused it might be the connection Cambridge has with its sister town in France, Le Quesnoy, perhaps a surge of interest from the Paris Olympics, or simply a growing number of locals with the interest, time and wherewithal to visit
France.
Whatever the reason, they are set to start 2025 with around 30 students. Some will have no French at all, others are returnees wanting to keep their learning going, while others might come just for a short while.
Cherie and Sandrine use their combined skills to help them get there. Cherie learned the language at school and at university, then lived in France for a while; she’s a kiwi with a passion for anything with a link to France. Sandrine is French-born, a teacher who has travelled and taught extensively, most recently teaching French to expats in Dubai.
The classes started in 2016 after Cherie met a Frenchman then new to Cambridge, Cedric Delavalee. They began with casual catch-ups for those interested in learning French, and by the time
Cedric left a couple of years later, Cherie had met Sandrine and lessons were established. Now they work together, splitting classes into newbies and those with some knowledge of the language, always incorporating French culture, history, cuisine and more.
Two years ago, they started doing annual trips to France, fortnight-long Cherie and Sandrine-led tours to different parts of the country. In May, they will go to the Normandie-Bretagne region. Classes are held during school terms in a space at Cambridge High School, and the women reckon they’ll keep going as long as they enjoy it as much as they do.
We
Grinter’s
Jim Goddin JP Funeral Director
Sandrine Pryor, left, and Cherie Cartwright, toast their time spent teaching French in Cambridge. Photo: supplied
Golden start for Goodwood
By Steph Bell-Jenkins
It’s been more than 23 years since champion thoroughbred racehorse Ethereal thundered down Flemington Racecourse’s final straight on November 6, 2001, streaking past Give The Slip in a thrilling finish to win the Melbourne Cup.
The New Zealand mare’s Cambridge trainer, Sheila Laxon, shot instantly to stardom, becoming the first female trainer to win the coveted trophy – and Ethereal’s face is now immortalised in an equine mosaic on Victoria St.
Last week Laxon - a Goodwood school grandmother - shared stories of her stellar career at Goodwood School, which two of her grandchildren attend, to help get the new school year off to a flying start.
Students had a rare chance to see and touch the Melbourne Cup up close and be photographed with one of the world’s most famous sporting trophies. Made of solid 18-carat gold, it is worth about $A750,000.
“Sheila was a lovely lady; she was great with the kids and answered all their questions about horse racing,” principal David Graham said.
Laxon, who came to Cambridge in the early 1980s, was formerly married to the
late Laurie Laxon, who trained Empire Rose to win the 1988 Melbourne Cup. She moved to Australia in 2002 and is now based on the Gold Coast.
Last year she scored notched up her second Melbourne Cup victory with Australian horse Knight’s Choice, co-trained by her husband John Symons.
The bay gelding paid $63.50 at the New Zealand TAB for the win.
Laxon told students she had had many favourite horses over the years, but Knight’s Choice
was extra special.
“Few people gave the 90 to one outsider any chance to take the Cup,” Graham said.
“But Sheila saw something special in the determined fouryear-old purchased for $85,000 at the 2021 Gold Coast yearling sales.
“With over $5 million in career winnings, Sheila certainly helped to realise the horse’s potential.”
Ethereal also had a special place in her heart, he said.
Another world famous trainer
Letters…
I remember being in London during WWII and cannot forget the terror of hearing the sirens warning us of incoming V2 rockets and the inevitable carnage. Surely it is time to use modern technology and save us from this screaming siren?
Philippa Baker
Cambridge
Treasured visit
While driving our visiting friends from the US (Alan and Anita Newman from San Diego, California) to Napier, we made the wise decision to stop in Cambridge for a quick sightsee.
However, the quick sightsee turned into an afternoon’s worth of fun as we happened across the St. Andrew’s Craft Fair. What a tremendous turnout of crafts persons in stalls and hordes of eager looky-lous and customers. My wife (also named Anita) and our San Diegan Anita disappeared into the maelstrom of shoppers while Alan and I were left by ourselves wondering how we wound up alone amongst such a crowd. He is a Trump supporter, and I am anything but, but this has not soured our over 50-year friendship and leads to much laughing at each other’s political parties.
with a connection to the school, Sir Patrick Hogan, was also acknowledged during Laxon’s visit.
In 2001 Hogan gifted Goodwood School a goldplated horseshoe worn by New Zealand racehorse Zabeel.
Mr Graham said Laxon, who was visiting New Zealand to attend the Karaka yearling sales, had been very generous with her time, promoting the racing industry as an exciting career with many opportunities for travel and adventure.
Our laugh-fest was interrupted by the return of our wives, each holding the ’treasures’ they had purchased at the fair, and we eventually took off, arriving much later in Napier than originally planned, but with some new and unplanned happy memories of Cambridge. Including some killer chocolate chip cookies and peanut butter cookies. Let’s face it - the fair was fabulous and should be billed as a big draw for your beautiful town and we congratulate all who made it happen - including the reporter who brought it to everyone’s attention!
Gene Sorkin Auckland, ex Inglewood, USA
Photo: Sheila Laxon with (from left) Rosa Christensen, Indie Stewart, Ayla Cholmondeley-Smith, Tika Samuels, Emma Wilkins and Shiah Morris with Laxon’s trainers’ cup, the Melbourne Cup and a horseshoe worn by Zabeel, signed by Sir Patrick Hogan.
Students told to show courage
By Mary Anne Gill
Cambridge High School year nine students got the message loud and clear from principal Greg Thornton at their pōwhiri last week.
“Realise your potential,” he urged the 360 plus nervous looking young people sitting quietly in the school gymnasium.
He told The News the biggest thing he wanted the students to do was to “give things a crack” during their five years at the school.
“Don’t be afraid. Have that courage to just put yourself out there because it will turn into success.
“I want when they first come into the school to acknowledge all that’s in front of them and set them a little challenge that says ‘think about this time as a way of being able to realise your potential, learn a lot more about who you are and what it is that interests you and then go for it.”
The school starts the year with1860 students, 150 staff – two thirds of them teachers – about 60 international students and 160-170 community volunteers in sports alone.
“I’m just super proud of what we do for our community here and the way in which the collection of experiences both inside the classroom and outside, really shape the students and influence them so by the time they graduate from here, they’re really quite
capable people.
“They have had a lot more knowledge. They’re smarter, they’ve got, you know, a lot of a lot of stuff going for them,” said Thornton, who started as principal in January 2019, leaving his job as principal of Tin International College in Hong Kong.
His speech to the year nines and the new teachers and staff focused on what a supportive community there was in Cambridge in the background.
“We’ve got some wonderful community members and staff that will help guide them to some real
great success,” he said.
“We’re really proud of some of the connections we have with some local businesses that will provide the kit or costumes for our students where, you know, they wouldn’t be able to afford it.”
The school has been excelling at hockey, rowing, cycling, girls’ rugby, music and drama.
“It is fuelled by our community; we are really well supported but of course spearheaded by some incredible staff here who give them those opportunities and open up that world for them.”
Lack of space inside and out is
not a problem. Cambridge High School’s campus redevelopment is up to date and phase four begins this year with some weather tightness work on the block housing English and Social Sciences.
International student numbers have returned to pre Covid levels capped at 60-70.
Thailand and Japan are the school’s major markets with the others mostly from southeast Asia and Europe.
“There’s a lot of reasons why coming to study in Cambridge is a wonderful place to be. We just
describe what this environment is like.
“You can walk from home to school and or all your sports and activities are at school,” he said.
The school’s National Certificate of Educational Achievement (NCEA) achievement rates went against the trend nationally and for equity groups.
“That’s a really positive story.”
All year nine to 13 students are back at school this week with swimming sports on Thursday next week being the first big event of the year. The term ends on Friday April 11.
A Shade S olu tion for You
Cambridge High School senior leadership sing a waiata welcoming year nine students, new staff and whānau to the pōwhiri. More cambridgenews.nz
Photo: Mary Anne Gill
Super club looks for home
By Mary Anne Gill
The Southern Hemisphere’s largest thoroughbred training centre in Cambridge could be up for sale in what pundits are describing as the biggest racecourse land search in a century.
The 61ha centre has 1200 horses regularly at work on a synthetic track opened in 2021 – and 60-70 licence holders.
Within eight to 12 years – all going to plan – 145ha of prime Waikato land in Hamilton, Cambridge and Te Awamutu owned by Waikato Thoroughbred Racing will be sold for residential and commercial development.
In their place, the super club - born out of a merger between Te Rapa, Cambridge and Waipā racing clubs two years ago - will have a new greenfields’ site somewhere in the Waikato.
Waikato Thoroughbred Racing chief executive Andrew ‘Butch’ Castles said the development would be industry shaping and defining for generations to come.
“Whatever decision we make will have a massive impact on future generations that look to pursue a recreational interest or a professional interest in racing in the area,” says Castles.
Horse racing in the Waikato is a $505 million industry employing more than 6200 people.
Waikato Thoroughbred Racing’s chief executive knows he has a
big job ahead of him but having passed the first hurdle – a vote by members last year to investigate a single fit-for-purpose site for racing and training in the Waikato – he has the bit between his teeth.
“We want to flush out some property that hasn’t been considered (for racing),” he says.
Hamilton rural specialist Peter Kelly has the task of finding between 125-200ha in a triangle starting north of Hamilton, down to Te Awamutu and across to Cambridge.
“There are some pieces of land that tick a number of boxes that are not quite in that area, but close to it,” says Castles.
“It’s really a matter of making sure that horses, people, race day guests and everyone have the best way possible of getting there.
“You wouldn’t want to be down a long narrow road, but it doesn’t necessarily have to be off the Waikato Expressway. Transport links are important but there are a number of other criteria.
“I’m not sure we will find everything that ticks every box, but it will be weighted, we’ll look for the best one that ticks the most boxes and fits the most criteria.”
Tenders will be considered next month and the final proposal back to members for a special meeting in September.
If approved, then the clock starts ticking.
On the market will go 34ha in Te Awamutu where Waipā Racing Club used to race but is now a training facility used by 120 horses on a regular basis. Its underlying residential zone makes it prime for
housing.
It would be the first to go given courses at Cambridge and Te Rapa would still be needed for racing.
The 61ha in Cambridge is already subject to what Castles calls “urban creep” – housing developments are eating into land and roads where once horses were king, but which now compete with speeding cars down Racecourse Road.
Any new facility would have to cater for the training licence holders currently based in Cambridge. Castles says 150-200ha would have trainer allotments as part of the development.
Very few horses train at Te Rapa and its 50ha – down from the original 160ha purchased in the 1920s - comprises 6.5ha of mixed use residential and the rest major facilities. The venue holds 20 race days a year, its track is one of the best in the country and the international grandstand has hosted patrons who watch the country’s best thoroughbreds.
There are detractors to the greenfields’ plan who have yet to show their hands.
“This is bigger than just Waikato thoroughbred racing, this is an industry decision,” says Castles.
“Financially it will be too big for us to deal with on our own so we will need support from all sorts of industry bodies. The ideal would be that we go ahead with the support of the whole industry.”
But first… find the right piece of land.
“That’s why we’re doing it in this fashion. It’s all very well to have flash drawings, vision and ideas but there’s no point in finding the right piece of land and finding out it can’t be consented to race on.”
• What do you think? Email editor@goodlocal.nz
Back with a bullet
The story of childhood friends Linda Pennock and Diane Pevreal catching up after 50 years was the best-read Cambridge News online article last month.
Visits were 50 per cent up to cambridgenews.nz on December and a whopping 88 per cent from January last year.
Community constable Deb Hann’s first column of the year was second followed by the New Year’s Eve online story about Waipā’s Honours recipients.
Waikato Regional Council chair Pamela Storey’s announcement she is up for another term was fourth and fifth was columnist Janine Krippner’s piece on the Boxing Day tsunami 20 years ago.
The home page, online publications, contact and advertising are the best read pages in that order.
Ultimate Focus wins at the Waikato Thoroughbred Racing Cambridge synthetic track in May last year.
Photo: Mary Anne Gill
Double ram
A vape shop was ram-raided twice on consecutive nights in Cambridge last week.
The Vape Shed, on the corner of Duke and Anzac streets, was hit early on Thursday and Friday mornings.
Police say offenders fled the scene in the first instance after gaining
access to the premises by breaking the glass entry with a vehicle.
About 4.45am the next day, police say a vehicle was “likely” used to break down the wood used to repair the entry.
Police say their inquiries are ongoing and include determining whether the incidents were linked.
Alys Antiques & Fine Art
Hospice shop busy
When customers of a certain age wander into Cambridge Hospice Waikato Shop and into the retro section, their eyes rise longingly at the posters and memorabilia on the wall.
“They’re not for sale,” manager Justine Webb-Elliott is quick to say of the Beatles, Bob Dylan and Bob Marley posters and the other bits and pieces which frame clothing and items of a certain vintage.
The store is one of nine operated by Hospice Waikato which generates income for the organisation to deliver no cost care to patients and support to their families.
It was yet another busy start to the year for the store which after a brief closure usually finds plenty of items on its doorstep post-Christmas.
Meanwhile Cambridge resident Susan Hassall’s stint as acting chief executive officer ends soon when Alex Gordon of Hamilton starts. Gordon is currently managing Te Whatu Ora Waikato Hospital’s Cancer and Chronic Condition service.
Hassall, who was on the Hospice Waikato board, stepped in following the resignation of Craig Tamblyn in May last year and following her 25-year tenure as Hamilton Boys’ High School headmaster.
CAMBRIDGE VOLUNTEER FIRE BRIGADE CALLS OVER THE LAST WEEK
TUESDAY
CAMBRIDGE VOLUNTEER FIRE BRIGADE C ALLS OVER THE L AST WEEK
7:09am, Building Alarm and Evacuation, Hall Street
1:43pm, Building Alarm and Gas leak, Swayne Road
8:18pm, Person in water, Victoria Street
WEDNESDAY
WEDNESDAY
9:55am, Cardiac Arrest, Bryce Street
Crouching Women, Bronze 1/14, Dated 1894, Signed.
Jules Duffart, French, 1924- French Town View, OilonBoard,Signed
Chest of Drawers, Mahogany, Finely moulded Ogee Feet, 104cm high, 119 wide, 52 deep, End 18th, early 19th C, good condition.
1:09pm, Building Alarm and evacuation, Ruakura Road
8:35am, Smoke in the vicinity, French Pass Road 1:22pm, Grass Fire, Puketaha Road
THURSDAY
9:23am, Building Alarm and Evacuation, Town Hall 12:27pm, Building Alarm and Evacuation, Cook Street
11:56pm, Building Alarm and evacuation, Hautapu Road
1:17pm, Rubbish Fire, Carlyle Street
FRIDAY
4:08pm, Building Alarm and Evacuation, Cambridge Road
8:42am, Building Alarm and evacuation. Maungatautari Road
FRIDAY
4:09am, Building Alarm and Evacuation, Cambridge Road
SUNDAY
MONDAY
3:53am, Medical assistance, Karapiro Road
7:29am, Fire in the vicinity, Hautapu Road 9:39am, Single truck MVC, Tirau Road
Justine Webb-Elliott in the retro section of Hospice Waikato in Cambridge.
Photo: Mary Anne Gill
Thelma celebrates at 100
By Viv Posselt
Cambridge’s Thelma Hubbard was just a touch fashionably late for her 100th birthday party last week, and nobody minded one whit.
That’s because her centennial celebration should have taken place around her actual birthday on December 6, but a run-in with an automatic sliding door scuppered those plans and put her in hospital for a while.
“That was really bad timing,” she said with a shrug, “but all is well now. This ended up being a wonderful party.”
The occasion at Metlifecare St Andrew’s saw more than 60 residents join with family in the Moxon Centre to finally mark her big day.
Thelma and her late husband Brian moved to St Andrews in May 2004. After Brian’s death a decade ago, she remained living independently in the St Andrew’s village until recently when she made the move into the Moxon Centre.
The Hubbards were well known locally. They moved to Cambridge in 1977 and within a year bought a plant/ gift shop in Leamington. They later opened a flower shop in Cambridge and
Thelma trained as a florist. They sold that in 1983 and purchased a newspaper agency they ran until 1995. For a few years afterwards they were in business in Katikati, but the pair returned to Cambridge in 2002.
Family say they bought and sold seven different houses overall, building one of them, during their time in Cambridge.
Thelma and Brian were involved in starting a Probus group (now Rebus), and Thelma drew on her time with the Katikati Probus chapter. She won an award from Probus – something she is particularly proud of –and is also still a committee member of the Blind Low Vision group.
Hard-work and mental toughness runs through her veins. Thelma was born in Devonport but moved from Auckland after her parents split up. Later, when she aced her final school exams, she determined not to follow advice coming at her from all directions to go to university and become a doctor. She had other plans.
“I wanted to work in an office. It was wartime, and that’s the only thing I wanted to do.”
She met Brian at a dance in Christchurch, where she had been working in the stamp and death duties office. They married in 1946, and Brian, who had spent some time in the Pacific during the war, decided to join the police. His job subsequently took the
family around New Zealand, but its demands on family time saw Brian move into other fields of work.
Thelma worked for much of the time as well, along with raising their four children. Two of the four have since died.
Blessed with a cheery personality, Thelma puts it her longevity down to having the right approach to life.
“I don’t feel 100,” she laughed. “I always just got on with. I’m a bit of an optimist I think ... glass half full kind of girl.”
Those arranging Thelma Hubbard’s party put up this 1925-2025 timeline of events to mark her century. In front is a message box for guests. Photos: Viv Posselt
Thelma Hubbard enjoying a laugh at her 100th birthday party in Cambridge last week. With her are, from left, daughter Sue Hubbard, grandson Nick Franklin, son-in-law Dan Franklin and great-grandsons Hudson, 6, and Harvey, 4. Photo: Viv Posselt
Karaka eight for Kneebone
A productive week of shopping at Karaka has helped to put Waipā horseman Nick Kneebone on a path towards New Zealand’s training ranks.
Kneebone completed eight purchases under the Patella Bloodstock banner during New Zealand Bloodstock’s National Yearling Sale.
He secured five yearlings from Book 1, including a Capitalist colt for $460,000, a Satono Aladdin colt for $400,000 and a St Mark’s Basilica colt for $360,000. He followed that up with another three Book 2 yearlings, signing off with a $125,000 colt by Shamexpress late on Thursday afternoon.
Patella Bloodstock’s total spend was $1,680,000 across the five days of the sale.
“It’s been really good,” Kneebone said. “We’ve managed to secure eight horses, seven colts and a filly, and we’re really happy with what we’ve come away with.
“The plan now is to take them down to Cambridge and get them ready, either to be traded on to overseas or to go into training here.”
That is a part of the thoroughbred world that Kneebone himself is keen to become immersed in. The 27-year-old is a son of auctioneer and NZB’s director of business development Mike Kneebone, but he has also gained experience in stables across the Tasman.
“I’m happy to come here now and give it a crack at a time when it looks like New Zealand racing is on the up. The prizemoney increases have been great news for the industry here in recent times and I’m very keen to be a part of it.”
Kneebone’s initial target is to prepare some horses for the Ready to Run Sale at Karaka in November.
Meanwhile Cambridge trainers Roger James and Robert Wellwood of Kingsclere
Stables experienced a whirlwind of highs across the Karaka Millions and Yearling Sales series.
They secured a filly out of Hallmark Stud’s draft on behalf of Orchestral’s owners, Colin and Helen Litt. The Proisir filly out of Donna Marie is the full-sister to another Kingsclere headlining act in Prowess, who won two Group Ones and over $1.5 million in a career that came to a premature end.
A further six yearlings were purchased by the Cambridge trainers in Book 1, including Lot 412, a Per Incanto colt out of Group Two winner Xpression for $260,000, while they went to $310,000 for Lot 623, a filly by young sire St Mark’s Basilica. - NZ Racing Desk
Singing the Blues
Domain at play
to a
areas
underway with workers dismantling equipment this week. The playground theme draws inspiration from the historic use of borrow pits in Māori gardening and crop cultivation on the marae. Some of the other features include a toddler mound and slide, a kumara flower bowl spinner, timber hut, trampoline, slides, musical play and a three-bay swing set. The iconic domain steam roller will stay in the park but be moved to a more interactive position allowing it to better connect with the other play features. Construction will be completed in May. During this time the existing playground and toilet will be closed, and the Cambridge Model Engineering Society will temporarily suspend operations due to health and safety risks.
Nick Kneebone at Karaka with a Home Affairs colt.
Photo: Glenys Randell
Leamington Domain’s $1.5 million transformation
new destination playground featuring water, sand, and nature-themed play
is
The Slims blues band have started the new year how they mean to go on, practising under Cambridge’s historic rotunda in Thornton Rd on a sunny Sunday afternoon. From left Jono Knapp, Mark Taylor, singer Maree Wilson, Ken Emery, harmonica player Beaudene Bate and in the background, Paul Taranaki on the drums.
Photo: Mary Anne Gill
FRIDAY 14 & SATURDAY 15 FEBRUARY, 10AM - 2PM
Discover the award-winning lifestyle at Ryman. Join us at our open days and explore our living and care options, tour our show homes and see the amenities on offer.
Plus, attend our open days and you could win a $500 travel voucher* — perfect for embracing new adventures.
To find out more visit rymanhealthcare.co.nz/open-days *Participating villages only, Ts and Cs apply
Shop at Cambridge Tiles and support a locally owned business, and your local tradespeople.
Visit our new website which showcases our outstanding range of tiles as well as offering trend and design inspiration, valuable tips and advice on FAQs.
Booking:
Janine Davy Advertising Manager janine@goodlocal.nz • Ph 027 287 0005
By Murray Smith, Bridges Church
If you’ve experienced a loss visited upon you through someone breaking an agreement, you’ll know the feelings of disempowerment and betrayal. Long ago, it happened for me at this time of year. I’d been persuaded to invest in a business scheme that I was told was a ‘nobrainer’ having the support of influential and reputable directors whose string of successes went before them. I was told how privileged I was to be ‘invited to the table’.
The leading director of this initiative touted himself as a person of integrity with deeply held moral convictions. He even quoted the Bible to substantiate his ethics, promising that in the extremely unlikely event of the venture failing, he would personally secure me against all losses. Giving his word as his bond, the man’s considerable means and influence appeared watertight. I was impressed he claimed Bible verses to guide his principles saying, “I am a person, ‘who swears to my own hurt and changes not.’ ’’ Using such words from Psalm 15 verse 4, he stated that in making promises, he’d stand by them, regardless of cost to him personally.
Unfortunately, along with others, I was taken in for many hundreds of thousands of dollars. All the promises proved empty.
I cannot equate my loss with the magnitude of the dishonoured promises that our Māori people have experienced with the Treaty of Waitangi, nevertheless, I ’get’ the feeling of being ‘ripped off’ - especially considering what Te Tiriti o Waitangi actually pledged.
Signed as a covenantal document between 500 Māori chiefs and representatives of the British Crown, it was and remains an exchange of promises. The chiefs gave the Queen, ‘te Kawanatanga katoa’, the governance or government over the land. With greedy, unscrupulous settlers arriving,
the Crown assured Māori of the Queen’s protection of all rights accorded to British subjects. It pledged to protect Māori rights and customs, (tikanga) guaranteeing ‘te tino rangatiritanga’ (full, or entire ‘chieftainship’) over their lands, villages, all property and treasures’, promising ‘undisturbed possession of their lands and estates, forests, fisheries and other properties’.
Not just another Waitangi Day
The Treaty, intended as a partnership between Māori and the British Crown to create unity, through multiple successive breaches created anything but that. Crown colonial activity wreaked unimaginable violations, trashing Māori rights. Promises were reneged on and vast land confiscations were heartlessly enforced.
If the Crown’s track-record were marked as an exam paper, scoring on its ‘promise keeping’ merits would result in an epic fail, considering the dishonourable injustices served upon Māori.
It was 1973 when Prime Minister Norman Kirk announced that February 6, the anniversary of the 1840 signing of the Treaty of Waitangi would become an annual ‘unifying national holiday’ called New Zealand Day. A year later it was renamed ‘Waitangi Day.’ Now in 2025, as we commemorate 185 years since the Treaty’s signing, pausing and reflecting on our national anniversary is appropriate… how can we contribute and partner in Norm Kirk’s aspiration of a ‘unifying national holiday’ being realised? A good start would be genuinely engaging with the Bible’s message, allowing it to recalibrate our lives…for example, “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you…”
Distributed to EVERY rural & urban letter box across the Waipa region each month.
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I am very happy with Resonate Health. The attention I received was first class. My new Nexia hearing aids are performing really well and are a vast improvement on my old aids. Everyday life is now much more rewarding and I can easily watch and hear TV now without having to use headphones. Paying $90 a month is very affordable without having to break into savings to pay thousands. I would certainly recommend you pay a visit to Resonate, you won’t be disappointed.
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AGE OF REASON
NO RAIN AROUND
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My media musings
Welcome to February. The over-long period of holiday disruption is behind us. Those who went off to improve their skin tans are now returned. Those who achieved the same result by staying at home will have noticed how swiftly the Cambridge main streets filled with traffic again, cafes bulging at the seams and a general appearance of commercial success layered over the area. I appreciate that some retailers have been hurting over recent months but the clear display of patrons fleeing restaurants in the main cities does not appear to have landed here. And Cambridge generally is not dependant on imported overseas labour where the government appears muddled as to how to balance those who clearly want work and those who lounge under the generous umbrella of WINZ payments. Interestingly the government owned TV1 has great trouble recognising that the year is already five weeks under way and has, reluctantly apparently, recreated the morning breakfast time news show. What other major country closes off its mainstream news broadcast / political commentary for
By Peter Carr
seven weeks so that the very well-paid presenters and their supporting staff can have a break?
Do we have to depend only on the excellent newsreaders at 6pm on weekdays or their very professional counterpart at the weekends?
Personally, I would far rather have some more serious and balanced input from a Campbell / Gower / Holmes level of thinkers rather than lighthanded rhetoric.
To what extent, as taxpayers, should we expect to be satisfied by the totally government owned, now sole, morning ‘news’ channel? Clearly news collation and dissemination of an honest and accurate nature is getting harder to put together. Why else could Stuff have been purchased for the princely sum of a single dollar? Why are other mainstream organs being forced to shed staff - in the main driven by advertisers turning away from the medium? Are the production owners making it too hard to advertise? And why did one of them in particular take the poisoned chalice of a previous government handout to keep afloat? And why
COUNCIL COMMENT
was it necessary for a large number of (freely distributed) local weekly print organs to bite the dust pre-Christmas?
Something is clearly wrong in the Fourth Estate. Perhaps driven by a coterie of ‘journalists’ who persist in rude, repetitive interruptions during interviews and clearly positioning their desired resultant output in a single political direction? How many more times does the Prime Minister have to make it clear that the much trumpeted and divisive Act Treaty bill will not reach past a second reading?
Many people are turning from their TV to computer screens where they become open to false information. Honest and practical journalism is at least alive and well in this busy tabloid that hits your mailbox each week. But the editorial team only get one chance a week to put their case and balance the news. So greater pressure needs to come onto those journals (paper or screened) that have the opportunity of a 24 hours per day output.
Change and challenges ahead
By Crystal Beavis, Waikato District Councillor, Tamahere-Woodlands Ward
Change is in the air for 2025 at Waikato District Council as we welcomed our new chief executive this week.
management and with more change still to come.
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After 21 years in the top job, outgoing chief executive Gavin Ion will stay on until June, moving into a new role to support a smooth transition on Three Waters as we develop and publicly consult on a new council-controlled organisation (CCO) with Hamilton City Council.
Just last week the council announced the letting of new roading contracts for the district, completing a significant 18-month procurement project, and then spent three full days examining and giving direction on the shape of a new Long Term Plan (LTP) 2025-34.
The LTP has been on hold since last year as we awaited the outcome of major legislative reform in areas of local government responsibility, particularly in Three Waters, but also in resource
By the end of the council’s LTP workshops last week, the indicative budget was pointing to a potential general rate increase of just over four per cent for the first year (2025/26), before falling to an increase of about 2.5 per cent in 2026/27, and then two per cent and less in subsequent years.
This is good news for ratepayers –and comes despite early LTP budget indications last year that a 13.75 per cent general rate increase this year would be followed by several 6 per cent annual rises, and despite the council using reserves to keep the increase to 11.9 per cent this year (below average for councils around the country).
Nevertheless, rates affordability remains a major concern. Since preparation of the previous LTP (202131) overall council costs have escalated by 20 per cent, with civil construction costs up 27 per cent.
Together with rising compliance costs for three waters services, these are putting pressure on targeted rates with indications that overall rates (general and
targeted) in our towns could rise between 7.8 per cent and 10.8 per cent in the first year –but less in areas not subject to significant targeted rates. (A waters CCO will eventually bring relief, but it will take 5-10 years to realise the full benefits.)
The proposed LTP budget is expected to be approved in mid-February, and a plan developed for public consultation in March-April prior to final adoption in June.
Councillors with longer experience than I say the present term has been the toughest we’ve faced, with cost increases well above CPI, significant legislative change, massive storm damage last year ($18 million infrastructure damage from Cyclone Gabrielle) and now a loss of $35 million New Zealand Transport Agency subsidy for new roading works for two years as money is directed into Roads of National Significance.
The long-term outlook is positive but there will be many challenges on the way.
Date
Date
Dear diary, looks like the lawn mowed itself again today
Love not lifting a finger. At Summerset, there’s no need to worry about the maintenance of your home or garden. That’s our job. Your job is to focus purely on doing the things you love. That’s what retirement is all about. Love the life you choose.
Come along to our Morning Tea & Tour, every Wednesday in February
At Summerset, our retirement villages are designed to make sure you get the best out of your retirement. Summerset Cambridge is no exception, with a range of brand new homes ready to move in to now.
Two-bedroom homes are available with flexible pricing from just $638,000.* We’ll help you every step of the way with $15,000 cash back, $2,000 towards your legal fees, a moving service package, and no weekly fees for six months. Simply sign a sales application for a selected home between 01 January 2025 and 31 March 2025, and then settle by 30 June 2025 #
Morning Tea & Tour
Every Wednesday in February, 10.30am
Summerset Cambridge
1 Mary Ann Drive, Cambridge 07 839 9482 | summerset.co.nz/cambridge
Once our stunning village centre is complete, residents and their families will be able to enjoy a range of resortstyle facilities, from an indoor swimming pool and spa, to a hair & beauty salon and a public café.
Come along to one of our upcoming Morning Tea & Tours to see why our residents love the Summerset life. Or, if you’d like to hear more sooner, just give Nikki Matthews, Sales Manager, a call and she’ll take you on a guided tour. Our sales office is open 7 days so you’re welcome any time.
CONTACT:
Pam Moore | 027 289 6344 | pamjmoore3@icloud.com or Josie van Weerd | 0274 943002 | josievanw@outlook.com to register or for
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KAFTAN KALE
KANGAROO
Across: 1. Ozone, 4. Sailor, 7. Arc, 8. Eclair, 9. Instep, 10. Marathon, 12. Each, 13. Adjust, 15. Extent, 16. Sofa, 17. Restrain, 19. Wapiti, 20. Exceed, 22. Fan, 23. Plenty, 24. Trout.
1. Once and for all, 2. Ova, 3. Earth, 4. Science, 5. Inspector, 6. Overconfident, 11. Adulation, 14. Terrify, 18. Spent, 21. Coo.
KINDLY
ON SHAKY GROUND
Learning from disasters
By Janine Krippner
The term “natural disaster” is a bit outdated. We have natural hazards, sure, but disasters don’t exist without us, and they are made worse by poor planning, decision making, and preparation. If an identical eruption occurred in the middle of absolutely nowhere versus in the middle of a city, the first is not a disaster and the second is. An important part of reducing harm is understanding risk.
“Risk” is a word we use a lot in our everyday lives. Potentially silly decisions can be risky. We can be at risk of health complications. When it comes to hazards like eruptions, earthquakes, tsunamis and floods, risk has quite a specific and complex meaning.
The basic equation often used is Risk = Hazard x Exposure x Vulnerability. This gives us the likelihood of harm and damage from a specific hazard (like a tsunami) in a place depending on what and who is potentially in the way.
This is where the natural hazards interact with us, and where we have the power to reduce how much they harm us as individuals and communities.
Disaster risk reduction is a critical component of helping society deal with the hazards that come our way. An important method or framework is the 4 Rs of disaster management - Reduction, Readiness, Response, and Recovery.
The hazard is not to be managed (most of the time) – the planet will stay active, and we must respect the processes that shape it, but we can change the other aspects of the equation.
We can take steps to eliminate risk. This could be physically moving things out of the way, like raising a bridge above where
it could be damaged by a lahar, or making sure people don’t build houses in areas more likely to flood through land use zoning. Where we can’t eliminate it, we can reduce it. One example is designing buildings to stay standing during an earthquake.
We can make sure we are ready through education, early warning systems, and evacuation drills. We can empower people to know what to do and when. We can reduce how vulnerable we are by strengthening key aspects of society that keep us running, like communications, power, and transportation.
We have learned a lot about how to respond to a hazard or disaster, which by nature are complex, evolving, and challenging situations. We can make sure our emergency responders, and our emergency management/civil defence agencies have the resources they need to help us. We can ensure that funds can be rapidly made available for those who need it.
Following earthquakes and cyclones we have seen how difficult and long the recovery process can be. We keep learning from each event, and make sure that when we rebuild, we do so stronger and more resilient.
This isn’t a ‘four steps and we’re done’ process, it is a continual cycle. We learn more about the hazards, our society evolves, and a changing climate can make some hazards more intense. We keep adapting. We also forget over time that these events can happen to us, and we drop the ball, repeating mistakes of the past.
Greenough flies high
By Jesse Wood
Cambridge BMX rider Bennett Greenough, 21, claimed the Elite Men’s title at the 2025 UCI Oceania BMX Racing Championships in Bell Block, New Plymouth last weekend.
It was Greenough’s first elite race after stepping up from under-23, where he placed second in the world for 2024 and was the national champion.
Fellow Cambridge BMX Club rider and Paris Olympian Leila Walker, 19, was also in the spoils, winning the Elite Women’s title.
Walker registered two wins and a second placing, dominating from the front in the final.
The event was hosted by the New Plymouth BMX Club and drew more than 500 entries
Greenough’s 17-year-old sister Lily, a 2023 junior world championship medallist, finished runner up to Walker in the final and took the junior honours overall.
Other Cambridge riders at the event were Dan Franks, Rico D’Anvers, Jack Greenough and Finn Cogan.
Te Awamutu rider Brook Penny missed the under-23 title by a slim margin, with Queenslander Isabella
Schramm beating her by 3/100th of a second.
“It was awesome. I’m stoked with how the riding went and how the event ran. It was cool to see so many riders out there,” Greenough said.
“It’s great to have such a strong club in Cambridge. We’re lucky to have a really good group of riders that have come through and Cambridge has always been one of the stronger clubs in New Zealand, so it’s special to carry that tradition on.”
After a condensed season due to the Olympics last year, it was Greenough’s first international level race in eight months.
This is the St Peter’s School Cambridge alumnus’ 15th year of BMX racing and now he’s enjoying it on the big stage with his siblings.
“BMX is such a family orientated sport, from grassroots all the way through. It’s cool to have my brother Jack and sister Lily also competing at a high level. We train with each other day in and day out, feed off each other and make each other better,” Greenough said.
“I’m heading to France to race in about a month’s time. I’ll be there for a large chunk of the year, racing the French Cup, European Cup and World Cup circuits over the next six months or so.
4 Abergeldie Way
Te Miro 130 Oliver
Bennett Greenough in action last weekend.
Photo: Cole McOnie.
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$1,680,000+GST $1,695,000 $1,749,000 $2,295,000 $4,100,000
Crescent,
Kilda - A separate formal lounge/media room, four double bedrooms, including a generous primary suite looking out over the swimming pool and with a large walk-in-wardrobe and ensuite. Open Homes Saturday 11.00 - 11.30am & Sunday 1.00 - 1.30pm
18 Watkins Road, Cambridge
- Central hub boasts an open-plan design featuring a spacious kitchen, dining, & family living areas, including a fabulous media room.
- This home is perfect for multiple generations under one roof.
- Fenced, landscaped section and covered outdoor dining space.
12.00 - 12.30pm & Sunday 1.00 - 1.30pm
Low Maintenance, Lock Up and Leave!
Just Immaculate - Stunning and Peaceful
3 Sargeson Place, Leamington
- Both the dining and living room opening up through double doors to the deck/veranda.
- Large garage complete with workshop area on fully fenced section.
Homes Saturday & Sunday 12.00 - 12.30pm
Hidden Gem - Handy to Town
9A Alpha Street, Cambridge 2 1
- Step inside to discover the open-plan lounge and dining area.
- Standalone home includes spacious rear & side fully fenced yard.
- Sliding door opens out to a large, inviting deck, complete with built-in bordered seating —ideal for summer BBQs. Open Home Sunday 10.00 - 10.30am
Timeless Elegance Meets
& Flair
Facing - Unobstructed Views
59A Alpers Ridge, Leamington
- Ground Floor: 2 bedrooms, one of which is a master suite with an tiled ensuite & private patio access. Bathroom also serves this level.
- Upper Level: Living area opens out to a patio, 3 bedrooms, including
Cambridge 49 Baxter Michael Crescent
St Kilda Gem: Vendors ready to move on
This beautiful St Kilda home is an entertainer's dream and perfectly designed for family living. With a spacious 353 sqm of well-planned space, it effortlessly balances style, comfort, and practicality. Set amidst beautifully landscaped gardens, this home offers wonderful privacy and an established, tranquil feel. This beautifully crafted builder's home is designed to stand the test of time, featuring quality fittings and fixtures throughout, with well thought-out attention to detail. A wide entrance and reception area welcome you as you step inside, leading into the formal living and dining room, where a striking brick-wall gas fireplace adds a cozy focal point to the space. The heart of the home is the high-end kitchen and family hub, seamlessly connecting to the outdoor covered patio - perfect for year-round entertaining.
Cambridge 78 Alan Livingston Drive
Vendor ready to move - Downsizing and motivated
This 2016 Urban Homes build offers the perfect mix of space, comfort, and convenience on a generous 1,596 sqm corner site in the sought-after St Kilda subdivision. The vendor is downsizing and motivated to sell, with clear instructions to present all offers. Set among pristine, established gardens, this single-level Firth Manor Stone home is designed for easy living. The combination of low-maintenance materials and practical features allows owners more time to relax and enjoy their surroundings. A wide entrance hall welcomes you into the heart of the home, where an open-plan living, dining, and kitchen area creates a hub for daily life and entertaining. Sliding doors open to the outdoor living area, providing a seamless indooroutdoor flow. The kitchen impresses with a large central stone-top island, quality appliances, and a large walk-in pantry.
Hunt M 027 594 1491 E holly.hunt@pb.co.nz
M 0275 898 797 E rachael.hunt@pb.co.nz
4 2 2 2
pb.co.nz/CBL195945
Hunt M 027 594 1491 E holly.hunt@pb.co.nz
Hunt M 0275 898 797 E rachael.hunt@pb.co.nz
A LIFESTYLE IDYLL
Cocooned in a leafy environment this spacious, modern, sun-loving four-bedroom brick and tile home speaks volumes for relaxed lifestyle living. It's in one of Tamahere's most sought-after pockets, close to the village and school, and minutes from urban amenities. Enjoy the space provided by two living areas, entertain in an open plan kitchen complemented by quality appliances, an island bench and a neatly concealed pantry, chillax outside on the expansive deck, and tinker around in the 2.5 car garage. Built in 2010 by Golden Homes and in one careful ownership for the past 10 years, the well-nurtured home, together with the sprawling grounds, make the perfect rural idyll. The deck off the master suite is the perfect spot for a spa, and the spacious grounds have room for a swimming pool and tennis court. Expansive lawn, fruit trees, cottage gardens, mature plantings, a woodland, a henhouse and small paddock complete this picture of countryside serenity.
Auction 11.00am, Thu 13th Feb, 2025, (unless sold prior), Cambridge Town Hall, Victoria Street, Cambridge View Thu 6 Feb 5.30 - 6.15pm Sun 9 Feb 11.30 - 12.00pm Web pb.co.nz/CBL195440
David McGuire
M 027 472 2572
E david.mcguire@pb.co.nz
Teresa Moore
M 027 288 0553
E teresa.moore@pb.co.nz
Tamahere 10 Pencarrow Road Auction
Cambridge 36 Gillies Street
Carter's Flat development site
• 1057m2 development site • 2x existing warehouse/workshops • Central Cambridge location. Located in the Carter's Flat Commercial Zone, 36 Gillies Street presents as an exciting development opportunity in the heart of Cambridge. 36 Gillies Street is a 1057m2 vacant site, offering a range of possibilities for owner-occupiers or developers. Existing structures on site are a 100m2 (approx) shed/workshop with 2 large doors, and an additional 130m2 (approx) warehouse workshop with 3 x 3.5m doors. Call today for more information or to arrange a viewing. Auction 11.00am, Thu 13th Feb, 2025, (unless sold prior), Cambridge Town Hall, Victoria Street, Cambridge View By appointment Web pb.co.nz/CBC196509
Alan Copeman M 021 874 222 E alan.copeman@pb.co.nz
Tony Wakelin M 021 569 299 E tony.wakelin@pb.co.nz
Cambridge 54 Pukerimu Lane
Surplus to requirements - must sell!
This extraordinary 3.53-hectare property offers a rare combination of agricultural and residential lifestyle features. The property includes four expansive greenhouses, packhouse, cool room and a large office space with extensive staff amenities. The lifestyle block also has a comfortable four-bedroom, 1 bathroom, master with an ensuite and double garage dwelling, making this property perfect for both business and lifestyle opportunities.
Situated just minutes from the vibrant Cambridge township, this property enjoys easy access to shops, schools, and essential amenities. All necessary services are readily available, ensuring convenience for living and operational needs.
Whether you're looking to expand your agricultural ventures, establish a business, or enjoy a unique rural lifestyle, this property stands out as a one-of-a-kind opportunity. Contact us today for more details or to arrange a viewing. 4 4 1 2
Auction 11.00am, Thu 13th Feb, 2025, (unless sold prior), Cambridge Town Hall, Victoria Street, Cambridge View Sun 9 Feb 10.30 - 11.00am Web pb.co.nz/CBL195189
Malinda Chandrasekera M 0210 293 6907 E malinda.c@pb.co.nz
Alan Copeman M 021 874 222 E alan.copeman@pb.co.nz
Karapiro 52 Hydro Road
This Matriarch needs you and your vision
If you have the vision, this matriarch could be restored and modernised - and then take the opportunity of location with this iconic estate being located in the highly desirable Hydro Road, Lake Karapiro area, minutes from Cambridge, and commutable to Hamilton and Tauranga, you will see your asset grow.
This historic home is in need of refurbishment but offers the blend of country charm and convenience of providing extended family accommodation or income from Air BnB. The expansive home provides 3 large bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 2 living areas and a formal dining room. The detached annex is self-contained with 1 bedroom and 1 bathroom provisions above the double garage.
The farmlet is perfect for horse enthusiasts - there is a large shed ready to be converted to stables, with adjacent land ready for an arena. You can get the kids the pony they have always wanted!!! You will keep them outside and occupied with a swimming pool, spa pool and grass tennis court. Your guests will be in awe of your tree lined driveway with Spring daffodils when they come to visit.
Auction 11.00am, Thu 13th Feb, 2025, (unless sold prior), Cambridge Town Hall, Victoria Street, Cambridge View Thu 6 Feb 5.45 - 6.30pm Sun 9 Feb 11.00 - 11.45am Web pb.co.nz/CBL179666
David McGuire
M 027 472 2572
E david.mcguire@pb.co.nz
Teresa Moore
M 027 288 0553
E teresa.moore@pb.co.nz
Impressive strike rate
With an astute eye for market trends, Malinda is not only adept at navigating the complexities of the financial landscape but also possesses a keen understanding of customer behaviors and sales strategies. Marketing comes as second nature to him, as he consistently excelled in promoting products and services, driving revenue and growth for the organizations he has been a part of.
Malinda is currently striking 100% by selling every property he has listed. When the sea is rough, you need a good sailor - Malinda is dedicated and is only there to help you achieve your goals.
Malinda Chandrasekera
BROUGGY, Richard Antony
(Richie) – Passed away suddenly on the 24th of January 2025 aged 51 years. A very much loved son, who will be missed terribly, of John and Lynnette and brother Stephen (Steve). Also, a loved uncle to Maddi and Gareth and great-uncle to Otis. Richard will be missed by his many, many friends and wider family. A service to honour Richard’s life has been held. Communications to Richard’s family C/Legacy Funerals Cambridge, P O Box 844 Cambridge 3450.
LIVESEY, Hannah Natalie – passed away tragically on Tuesday, 28 January 2025 in Cambridge. Loved and cherished daughter of Adrian and Kate, and sister and best friend of Ethan. Granddaughter of Poppa Allan and Linda, and Nana Annette and the late Gerard. Much loved niece of Scott and Rosie, and cousin of James. Hannah had a gentle heart and a beautiful soul, and she was very much loved by her extended family and friends. Messages to the ‘Livesey Family’ can be sent c/- Grinter’s Funeral Home, 3 Hallys Lane, Cambridge 3434, or in Hannah’s online tribute book at www.grinters. co.nz A service to honour Hannah's life will be held at the Cambridge Baptist Church, 58 Queen Street, Cambridge on Monday, 10 February at 11.00 am, followed by burial at Hautapu Cemetery.
VOSPER, Doris Joan (Dee) – passed away peacefully on 30th January 2025 aged 95 years. Loved wife of the late Jack Vosper. Loved and treasured mother of Philip, Amanda and Sara. Dearly loved and admired by her grandchildren Roxane, Tam, Tarquin, Georgia, Nicholas, Natasha, the late Toby and Elliot, James and the late Mackenzie, Jessica and Rebecca. Loved and special GG Dee of eight (nearly nine) great-grandchildren. Many thanks to the wonderful staff at Te Awa Life Care for their special loving care of Dee. Dee will be missed by many, and she will be forever in our hearts. The service for Dee has been held. Donations to Breast Cancer Foundation would be appreciated and can be made at breastcancerfoundation. org.nz. All messages to the Vosper Family can be sent c/- 3 Hallys Lane, Cambridge, 3434 or in Dee’s online tribute book at grinters.co.nz
38 & 40 Maungakawa Road, Cambridge, 2500sqm sections. 2 x flat, regular shape sections in a highly desirable location, only 4km from town, flat, level sections, fully fenced. No building covenants. North facing. Title issued. We will do the earthworks for your house floor for free, excludes supply and delivery of product. Enquiries over $699,000 per section. GV $810k. Ph 0274 736 882
GRAZING LAND for cattle wanted to lease. Interested in any size from 5 - 100+ ha. Contact Taylor if any interest. Ph 021 805 421.
MARTIN, Trevor Clifford Passed away one year ago on 8th February 2024. Beautiful memories of one that we loved and will never forget. It isn’t what we write, it isn’t what we say, it’s how we feel deep inside as we think of you today. Remembered always, your loving wife Pearl and your treasured family.
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QUALIFIED builder – for all your building and painting needs call the professionals. Call Ross 021 079 4514
MEETING NOTICE
Pursuant to Section 46 of the Local Government Official Information and Meetings Act 1987 notice is hereby given that a meeting of Nga Pae Whenua the Joint Management Body for the Taumatawiiwii, Ngati Koroki Kahukura ki Hinuera, Waikaukau and Te Reti Reserves will be held on Thursday 20 February 2025 at 3pm in the Kaipaki Meeting Room, Waipa District Council, 23 Wilson Street, Cambridge. A copy of the agenda will be available two days before the meeting at the Cambridge Public Library.
Ian Calvert Funeral Director
NOTIFICATION OF TEMPORARY ROAD CLOSURES
Waipa District Council will close the following roads to ordinary vehicular traffic on Friday, 21 February 2025
Rangiaowhia Road – from the intersection with Mandeno Road to the intersection with Puahue Road between 5:00am and 1:00pm.
Puahue Road – from the intersection of Hairini Road to the intersection of Long Road between 5:00am and 7:00am.
To enable the organisers to hold the Rangiaowhia Pahuatanga Commemoration 21 February 1864 -2025
The application was considered under the Tenth Schedule of the Local Government Act 1974.
Emergency Services will have complete right of way at all times during closure.
For more information, please contact Waipa District Council on 0800 924 723.
Steph O’Sullivan CHIEF EXECUTIVE
NOTIFICATION OF INTENTION TO CONSIDER TEMPORARY ROAD CLOSURES
Waipa District Council will consider an application to close the following roads to ordinary vehicular traffic on Friday, 25 April 2025 from 12pm to 8:30pm, to enable organisers to hold the Cambridge Cycling Festival:
• Alpha Street – between Bryce Street and Victoria Street
• Dick Street – between Queen Street and Duke Street
• Duke Street – between Hallys Lane and Commerce Street
• Victoria and Alpha Street exits from Hally’s Lane
• Victoria Street – between Queen Street and Commerce Street
• Lake Street – between Kirkwood Street and Victoria Street
• Alpha Street – between Victoria Street and Empire Street
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 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, 14 February 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 Waipa District Council on 0800 924 723.
Steph O’Sullivan CHIEF EXECUTIVE
TEMPORARY ROAD CLOSURE – Victoria Street, Lake Street, Alpha Street and Empire Street for the Cambridge ANZAC Day commemorations
Please note that the roads listed below will be closed to ordinary vehicular traffic for the Cambridge ANZAC Day commemoration events on Friday, 25 April 2025.
Friday, 25 April 2025 - between 5.30am and 11am
Victoria Street - between Queen Street and Alpha Street
Lake Street - between Queen Street to Alpha Street Friday, 25 April 2025 – between 8.00am and 9.00am
Alpha Street - between Empire Street to Lake Street Empire Street - between Kirkwood Street and Alpha Street
The application will be considered under the Tenth Schedule of the Local Government Act 1974.
Arrangements will be made for access by emergency vehicles during the closure, if required.
Any objections to the proposal must be lodged with Waipa District Council, in writing, to events@waipadc.govt.nz, before 4.00pm on Friday 14 February 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 Waipa District Council on 0800 924 723.
Steph O’Sullivan CHIEF
100’S OF SATISFIED CLIENTS LOCAL
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PHONE MARK GORDON 827 7386
Spouting Need Fixing?
For all your maintenance and repairs with 17 Years’ Experience on colour steel, copper & PVC spouting. Call Dean on 0274 769 591
FR Series V-Twin - 21.5hp - 42”
Width - 2.2 Acres/hr Easy to start, simple operation and proven performance. The ClearCut™ fabricated cutting deck provides unsurpassed cutting results.
Kawasaki FR Series V-Twin
A powerful and comfortable tractor for use in medium to large-sized gardens. Equipped with pedal-operated, hydrostatic transmission, and low vibe deck drive.
a
Kawasaki
Kawasaki
Husqvarna Series™ Engine - 12.2hp - 38” Cutting Width
Kawasaki FR Series V-Twin - 23.0hp - 48” Cutting Width
powerful and comfortable side discharge tractor with di lock, sturdy ClearCut™ Fabricated deck for medium to large-sized gardens.
Kawasaki FR Series V-Twin - 21.5hp - 42” Cutting Width
Husqvarna
Cutting