King Country News | April 3, 2025

Run for it…

Boy racers in firing line

By Chris Gardner

Tainui Kāwhia Forest manager Hano Ormsby fears boy racer burnouts in Kawhia’s Ocean Beach car park could spark a forest fire that spreads to the village.

Because of the lack of a permanent police presence in the village there are no police to intervene when the boy racers do burnouts on Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights.

“They burnout until the sparks fly,” said Ormsby.

It has already resulted in a confront between angry residents and the culprits.

“We are very mindful that we have a small community

on the leeward [sheltered] side of the prevailing wind,” Ormsby said.

“These boy racers can be very arrogant and become a nuisance. Police on hand is more likely to be able to limit them, should they be doing these sorts of things.”

Kāwhia Community Board chair Geoff Good said boy racers had been congregating regularly at weekends at Ocean Beach car park for about two years and “the community has definitely had a gutsful”.

“There are about three or four different cars, and they are known in Kāwhia,” he said.

So well-known, the community took matters into its own hands late last year, and there was an altercation between residents and boy racers.

“There were some injuries, when some of the locals took them on,” Good said.

Ōtorohanga District Council Kāwhia and Tihiroa Ward councillor Kit Jeffries said police were needed in Kawhia

Tourists using the Ocean Beach car park and residents were feeling intimidated and threatened by the boy racers.

“They are scared to turn to the police in case something happens to them,” Jeffries

said. “That’s a shameful state of affairs.”

“We just can’t afford to have that behaviour here,” he said.

The village had been without a permanent police presence for more than two years after the resident officer was involved in an accident, he said.

“Kāwhia has been visited by police vehicles coming in from Cambridge, Ōtorohanga and Te Awamutu in the morning, then out in the afternoon,” Jeffries said.

The community knew it was without police cover in the evenings and weekends.

“It is an issue,” he said. “Police have advertised and did not get any applications. The person here is sole charge and covers from Taharoa in the south to Raglan in the north.”

He suggested police set up random booze bus check points to send a message to the community.

Community board member Dave Walsh said the dry weather brought other problems to the village.

“We are coming up on marijuana harvest time,” he said. “It won’t stop the thieves coming out.”

As well as stealing crops, Walsh said, thieves looked for other opportunities in the area.

• Police asked to explain – see Page 5

Hano Ormsby says burnouts are putting Tainui Kāwhia Forest and Kāwhia village at risk.

Photo: Chris Gardner

An estimated 8000 people were in Te Kūiti for the Great NZ Muster last weekend, and for many the highlight was the running of the sheep on Saturday. The weekend also saw Northland’s Tia Henderson add to his 2025 Golden Shears title by being crowned New Zealand Open title winner. Jon Rawlinson recounts a successful weekend for the shearing community, Te Kūiti, visitors – and the sheep – on Page 3.

Photo: Jessie Meng

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Former Ōtorohanga farmer Rie de Haan rang in her centenary last week amid a sea of welcoming faces and the skirl of the bagpipes.

That birthday celebration, which was one of several held to mark the occasion, took place at Te Ata Rest Home in Te Awamutu where Rie now lives. The facility’s diversional therapist Kerri-Ann Denton organised a cupcake birthday cake and a special afternoon tea.

Rie turned 100 on March 27. Her extended family, plus visitors from Finland and Holland, attended the celebrations. Still sharp as a tack, she was delighted when Te Awamutu and Districts Highland Pipe Band showed up for the rest home party. Her sonin-law, Geoffrey FitzGerald, played with them for some years before giving it up, and the band often turns up to entertain residents.

completed shed and building their house room by room using boards salvaged and cut from windfall trees they accessed while in Matamata.

During the build, Andre and Johanna stayed with their aunt and uncle.

Once established, potatoes became the main source of income for 16 years until beef became more profitable and the couple’s calf-rearing and bull farming prospered. Rie educated the children via correspondence.

Turning the scrub farm into a going concern was tough. Joe died in 1992 and Rie carried on farming, finally learning to drive at the age

of 65. Her new-found mobility meant she was also able to continue pursuing her interest in spinning and weaving and attending Lyceum club meetings in town. Latterly, she has enjoyed swimming for seniors in Ōtorohanga and travelling with friends.

Rie appreciated the cards she received from prime minister Chris Luxon, MP Barbara Kuriger, Netherlands Ambassador Ard van der Vorst, and Waipā mayor Susan O’Regan, who dropped into her birthday party. She said the secret to her long life was quite simple: “It’s hard work … that’s what keeps you going.”

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Rie was born Hendrica Parlevliet on March 27, 1925, in Wieringerwaard, Holland, one of four siblings. The family moved to a lease farm in Rozenburg in 1945, and Rie followed her schooling by studying nursing. She met Joe de Haan at Rozenburg and the couple married on June 6, 1947.

Rie’s brother Pieter, who had settled in New Zealand after completing army service in Indonesia, wrote to the couple saying there was a job available milking 240 cows in Te Awamutu. They migrated with their young son Andre, and soon added to their family with the arrival of daughter Johanna. Rie and Joe took on a sharemilking job in Tokoroa. In 1955 they tendered for a 365-acre scrub block in Honikiwi, Ōtorohanga, and got it – they sold the cows and sheep and went 39 per cent milking in Matamata. While there, Joe and Rie arranged to have 65 acres of their land in Honikiwi leased to a neighbour, then bulldozed a flat area where they planned to build a house and a shed. Rie and Joe moved back there in 1959, sleeping in the by then

Letters…

Councillor responds

In response to my recent story on kiwi, Selwyn June stated incorrectly that 90 kiwi were released back into the Okahu Valley (which skirts Te Urewera).

The Department of Conservation stated in a 2025 Official Information Act (OIA) response that “DOC has not released any kiwi into the Okahu Valley, as there is no stoat control in the area to protect the birds from predation.” DOC also states it has removed over 100 kiwi and eggs from the Okahu Valley in the last 25 years. Despite the kiwi removals, the pig hunting, native logging, and absence of “pest control”, the population continues to thrive.

Mr June also states that “more than 600 kiwi have been monitored through aerial 1080 drops nationwide, and not one has died from 1080.”

DOC rarely tests kiwi for 1080 poison residues. Only three were tested nationwide between 1998 and 2018. However, since 2018, nine kiwi have been tested, two being positive - 22 per cent.

An OIA reporting 740 dead kiwi in Northland between 1998 and

2018 shows that none were tested for 1080 poison residues. However, 53 of the Northland kiwi were tested for anti-coagulant rodenticides (not 1080), and 20 (38 per cent) were positive. Oddly, not a single kiwi has ever been recorded by DOC as dying from any kind of poisoning.

Between 2024 and 2014, 54 kiwi chicks were recorded as dying in the Tongariro Kiwi Sanctuary in the five years they were monitored. Between 2013 and 2005, over 120 chicks died, and in at least one of the seasons, the entire Operation Nest Egg batch of chicks died. Hundreds of kiwi have been translocated into poisoned forests like the Tongariro (driving up kiwi call counts), none into unpoisoned forests.

In the Waikaremoana/Te Urewera wild kiwi range, the population is thriving. DOC states not one kiwi has been reported dead in the area in the last 10 years, despite the absence of pest control. As I said previously, mad scientist experiments are no place for kiwi. Clyde Graf

Waikato Regional councillor

Te Awamutu and Districts Pipe Band piper Graham Lyttle congratulates Rie de Haan on her 100th birthday. Photo: Viv Posselt

A new look

Welcome to a fresh looking King Country News. We have completed bringing your copy of The News into the Good Local Media stable with a new look masthead, type font for news and an easier to read grid layout for our classified adverts. The look replicates the style of sister publications the Te Awamutu News and Cambridge News. We hope you like it.

Water in news

Waikato Business News visited the Hamilton Waiora Water Treatment plant and reports on why the future of water is such a crucial subject for Waikato residents this month. Waipā has opted to go into a council controlled organisation with six other local authorities to manage drinking and wastewater while Hamilton city and Waikato district are n their own organistion. See the story at wbn.co.nz

Give us the money

Local councils in fast-growing parts of the country are being given the opportunity to borrow more. The Local Government Funding Agency – the organisation that issues debt on behalf of councils –has created a new pathway for eligible councils to apply to have their debt limits lifted. Hamilton, Tauranga, Waipā and Queenstown Lakes councils are most likely to meet the criterion.

Finalists named

Jo Sheridan, the Demonstration Manager at Owl Farm, which features today on page 14, has been named one of three finalists in the Fonterra sponsored Dairy Woman of the Year.

Drought breaker

Weather forecasters are expecting parts of the North Island to get a good dumping of rain in the next few days, potentially bringing relief to dry King Country pastures. Meanwhile Te Kūiti’s Grace Watson is a finalist in the Ahuwhenua Young Māori Farmer Award.

Sheep, stalls, shear delight

By Jon Rawlinson

Leave Spain’s Running of the Bulls to the show ponies, in Te Kūiti there’s another event that’s not near so dangerous as to tempt the foolhardy.

“No, there were no injuries to report in the NZ Shears Running of the Sheep,” said Helen Beever, Waitomo District Council General manager, community services.

“The New Zealand Shearing Committee does an absolutely fantastic job with it – it went really well and there’s no doubt the Running of the Sheep was, yet again, a highlight for the crowd.”

Just one pair of feet among a throng of cloven hooves belonged to the minister for rural communities and associate minister of agriculture, Mark Patterson.

Patterson hoped the muster would act as a springboard for thinking about the benefits of strong wool.

“New Zealand wool was once the backbone of New Zealand’s economy and I remain excited about the future

of the wool industry as we tap into new high value opportunities.”

A crowd of more than 8000 flocked to Te Kūiti at the weekend all keen to make much ado about the Great NZ Muster. The event set many local shop tills ringing as visitors enjoyed a varied programme with food and entertainment also on the menu.

“Numbers were definitely up this year. In fact, I think it was probably our largest crowd so far. We had perfect weather and a lot of visitors in town, which was really great to see,” Beever said.

“The stalls did well – we had more than 100 registered for the event and received comments from some that they had their biggest sales ever.”

While many came for the entertainment and many for the NZ Shearing Championships, all appeared to enjoy the festivities.

Northland’s Toa Henderson clinched the Open title at the NZ Shearing Championships. This win comes just four weeks after his

victory in the Golden Shears Open.

However, the Te Kūiti crowd had plenty of hometown heroes to celebrate as a strong King Country contingent rose to the occasion.

Similar to Henderson, woolhandler Keryn Herbert (Te Kūiti) backed up her winning ways from the Golden Shears while also defending her NZ Shears Open title.

“It’s bloody awesome and back-toback title wins is even sweeter – you can’t get any better than that!” she said. “The NZ Shears Open title is one every woolhandler wants on their bucket list so to come out on top is a great way to finish the season in my home town. Also, to also be presented with Shearing Sports NZ’s top ranked Open Woolhandler trophy for the sixth time was amazing.”

Another woolhandling win went to Kawhia’s Kelly Barrett, who secured the senior category title.

It may not have been the perfect way to earn the singlet, but Te Kūiti’s Mark Grainger demonstrated that there can be quite the prize for second

place. As the circuit final winner, Scottish Hawke’s Bay farmer Gavin Mutch, is ineligible for selection to the New Zealand team, Grainger qualified (along with Henderson) for the July test matches in the UK.

“I’m still stoked to make it,” he said. It was a bit of a different way to qualify but, like in any sport, to represent your country is the pinnacle.”

Jack Fagan (Te Kūiti) and David Buick (Wairarapa) denied Wales a repeat of an upset win at last year’s NZ Shears – completing a three-nil test series whitewash.

Proof that the King Country’s success in competitive shearing is living up to its legacy, fathers and sons and friends and neighbours featured in teams’ events. Home teams dominated the Contractors Relay (10 sheep), won by Ōtorohanga’s Digger Balme, England’s Callum Bosley and Jack Fagan.

• See more results at kingcountrynews.nz

Waitomo mayor John Robertson was pictured with Labour leader Chris Hipkins. Photo: Jessie Meng

If the cap fits… Jinzhen Hao, visiting from China, met police in the beat. Photo: Jessie Meng

Jack and David Fagan won the whanau event at the New Zealand Shearing Championships. Photo: Doug Laing

Keryn Herbert completed a double at the championships. Photo: Doug Laing

North Island Shearer of the Year finalists, with Tara Marshall, winner Jack Fagan, David Buick, Gavin Mutch, John Kirkpatrick, Paerata Abraham and Nathan Stratford. Photo: Doug Laing

Lamb Bain Laubscher

– new co-director for local firm

A King Country law firm has expanded its leadership team. However, the firm’s clients can continue to expect the same high level of local service they’ve received for decades.

Katie Clayton-Greene is excited about, and looking forward to, the next step in her legal career –becoming a shareholder and director of Lamb Bain Laubscher (LBL) Ltd. Working at the firm for the past nine years, Katie knows she still has some big boots to fill.

“I would not have guessed that I would be taking on such a leading role in this firm,” she says. “However, I am excited and motivated to live up to the name and brand that LBL and its predecessor firms have created. I am honoured to play a part in building on such strong foundations and to continue serving and strengthening relationships with our clients.” Established in 2002, LBL was born of a merger between two trusted firms, Wallace Bain Law Office and Max Lamb Lawyer. Katie is now one of three solicitors working at the firm alongside director Sam Laubscher, who has been working in Te Kūiti for more than 30 years, and consultant Max Lamb, practising law in Te Kūiti for more than 54 years. “Being able to tap into the knowledge and experience of Sam and Max will be invaluable to me as I enter this new phase of my legal career,” Katie says. “Sam has been a dedicated leader and a great colleague – we work well together as a team. Along with Max and the rest of our staff, I look forward to the continuation of service to our community and assisting them with their legal requirements.”

Katie has been a wonderful addition to the firm, Sam says.

“During the past nine years, Katie has built a good reputation and strong rapport with her clients. She has also created a number of new clients for the firm through referrals from existing and satisfied clients.

“With Katie bringing some youth into the ownership mix, we are making a seamless transition into the future and our clients can be safe in the knowledge that our office will serve them for many more years to come.”

Born and raised in Canada, Katie is a New Zealand citizen having lived in the northern King Country for the past 15 years. Living on a farm near Piopio, she’s as down to earth as they come.

“When you’re representing rural people, it definitely is an advantage for them if we have walked a mile in their shoes – or should that be gumboots?” she says. “Either way, we speak the same language which helps save time, save our clients’ money and deliver better results.”

Katie’s rural knowledge has been helpful in her work, but so too has her local knowledge.

“Just as I know I can provide a better service to our rural clients through my own experience on the land, a legal representative needs to be part of a community in order to be at their best when serving that community.”

LBL is focused on helping locals, and especially rural clients, but the team’s expertise is valued by clients much further a-field.

“We can advise clients on a national level as well, meeting them anywhere in New Zealand. As a member of the NZ Law Association, we have access to the legal expertise of more than 70 firms. Through this combination of local knowledge and national reach, we have built enduring relationships with clients across the country, in some cases spanning generations.”

Katie is continuing to take a hands-on approach.

“I couldn’t think of anything worse than becoming stuck in some fancy back-room office – where’s the enjoyment in that?” she laughs. “This firm was built by locals helping locals and it will stay that way. I’ve been client-facing since day one, which probably wouldn’t happen in a larger firm, and I intend to continue to provide that one-to-one level of assistance.”

Regardless of how complex or varied our legal needs may be, the first step towards accessing expert assistance is just a phone call away.

“So, other than with me stepping up into ownership, it’s business as usual,” Katie adds. “As always, you can email us or even simply drop by to book an appointment. We’re right here in the heart of our community and ready to discuss your needs.”

Sam Laubscher & Katie Clayton-Greene

Two new faces on trust

By Jon Rawlinson

Guy Whittaker has been joined by two new members of the Waitomo Energy Services Customer Trust.

He retained his seat and joined by former Waitomo mayor Brian Hanna, and the owner of Te Kūitibased Eight Mile Farms, Olivia Buckley.

The election, by rotation, of three members of the six-strong trust resulted in one casualty – Cathy Prendergast lost her seat. Kirsten Pari and Richard Harford were the other unsuccessful candidates. Erin Wirihana did not seek re-election.

The trust owns the Line Company.

“Yeah, it’s good,” Hanna said of the election result – which saw him as highest polling candidate.

“You should never have any great expectations when it comes to an election. I don’t take anything for granted. I put my name forward knowing it would be up for the people to decide.”

Hanna’s name would be familiar to many due to his 15 years on Waitomo District Council as a mayor and councillor. He

has also served as chair of the Maru Energy Trust, which provides insulation services for the Lines Company.

“I know the challenges of adequately maintaining infrastructure – that’s always going to be an important focus, but so is delivering efficiency and good customer service.”

The trio join sitting trustees William Oliver, Janette Osborne and Yvette Ronaldson, whose terms run to September next year.

Olivia Buckley brings extensive experience in governance roles. She said she needed a little time for the result to sink in, simply stating: “I’m very happy. I’m thrilled, absolutely.”

Prendergast recently threw her hat into the ring for the Ōtorohanga District Council mayoralty race.

“Of course I’m disappointed but I do have the mayoral race in my sights. I have particularly enjoyed my time as a trustee, especially because it’s a community owned asset that returns benefits to our community.”

The election drew 21.79

per cent of voters, up from the 2023 when 14.31 per cent had a say.

Online voting was available for the first time and almost 44% used it –but postal voting was still first past the post at just over 56%.

Results - Brian Hanna 1390 votes, Olivia Mairehau Buckley 1326, Guy Whittaker 1214, Cathy Prendergast: 1061,

Police asked to explain

By Chris Gardner

Police should be asked to explain to Waitomo District Council how they are responding to youth performing burnouts in Te Kūiti.

In the midst of a council discussion on how to respond to a delegation asking for speed humps and traffic islands to be installed in Esplanade Road, councillor Gavin Todd (pictured) said it was a law-and-order issue that should be dealt with by police.

“We can’t go spending a couple of hundred grand, just because of half a dozen criminals,” Todd said at the March meeting. “We should be inviting the police here to tell us what they are going to do about it.”

Roading manager Darren Laycock and infrastructure services general manager Shyamal Ram said, in a report, speed humps would cost ratepayers between $75,000 and an additional $100,000 to narrow intersections.

They recommended investigating providing security cameras to capture footage of dangerous driving to assist police and sought approval for up to $15,000 to purchase and install cameras.

Councillor Janene New was not ready to approve any funding in installing the cameras.

“We haven’t actually discussed whether that’s the way we want to go. We are in no position to proceed.”

Eady Manawaiti was concerned about leaving other parts of the community out of the conversation.

“There are genuinely other areas that don’t have that much courage as the last group to come in and share their concerns for their particular area in Te Kūiti.”

Mayor John Robertson warned “if we try and solve all the issues in Te Kūiti, we won’t get anything done”.

“We need to respond to this group, have a discussion, and we can invite other community leaders as well.”

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Thou shell not pass

By Mary Anne Gill

Gold clams have found their way north to Hamilton and Tuakau but there is no way they’re heading south with any rowing boats after the Maadi Cup regatta.

Close to 1000 boats and 80 trailers left Lake Karāpiro at the weekend and not one of them would have had a clam anywhere near them, organisers of the New Zealand Secondary Schools rowing championships say.

The invasive freshwater gold clam Corbicula fluminea was discovered at Bob’s Landing, Lake Karāpiro in May 2023. It is unknown how long they had been there or the extent of their spread but none have been reported in the South Island.

Clam ambassadors led by Janette Douglas at the Mighty River Domain acted on a plan developed between the Ministry for Primary Industries, Rowing NZ and site manager Liz Stolwyk.

The plan was months in the making and with one goal, said Stolwyk.

Five people were on the ground at Karāpiro to make sure the rowing boats were cleaned before they left.

Former world champion rower Brenda Lawson was one of them armed with a water blaster to spray out every stray clam out of boats’ nooks, cracks and crevices.

Once each boat had been water blasting, a red tag was tied on and when they left in trailers, each boat was checked and a yellow tag put on the trailer.

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Kirsten Pari 917, Richard Harford: 904

Brian Hanna

Guy Whitaker

Olivia Buckley

With Building & Construction Minister Chris Penk looking at timber manufacturing in Otorohanga.

RMA

Cabinet has now agreed on the shape of the Government’s replacement of the Resource Management Act. This signals a radical transition to a more enabling planning system with less red tape premised on the enjoyment of property rights. The RMA is a broken piece of legislation, and the biggest handbrake on our economy. Turning this around requires changing the culture of “no” that has seeped into bureaucratic decision making in New Zealand. There’s a lot of work still to do, but this Government is committed to delivering these reforms to unlock the economic growth we need to improve the lives of all New Zealanders. Economic Growth means more money in your bank account, more jobs, higher wages, and better public services like schools, hospitals, and roads.

Agreed Features of the New System

Two Acts: A Planning Act focused on regulating the use, development and enjoyment of land, along with a Natural Environment Act focused on the use, protection and enhancement of the natural environment.

A narrowed approach to effects management: The new system will be based on the economic concept of “externalities”, excluding effects borne solely by the party undertaking the activity.

Property Rights: Both Acts will include presumptions that a land use is enabled unless there is a significant enough impact on others’ land use or the environment, protecting existing use rights and allowing for the expansion of existing activities.

Simplified National Direction: One set of national policy direction under each Act will streamline local government plans. Direction will cover key areas including freshwater and urban development.

Environmental limits: A clearer basis for setting environmental limits will provide certainty for where development can be enabled, while protecting the environment.

Greater use of standardisation: Nationally set standards and land use zones will provide system benefits and efficiencies while still allowing local decisionmaking on important matters.

Spatial Plans: Each region will require a spatial plan identifying urban development areas and infrastructure corridors.

Streamlining of council plans: A combined plan will include spatial planning and environment chapters along with planning chapters for each territorial authority district.

Strengthening environmental compliance monitoring and enforcement: A national compliance regulator with a regional presence will be established to improve environmental safeguarding.

If you would like to discuss this further, please contact your nearest office for an appointment.

Rough trip to Mōkau News

Prime Minister Richard ‘Dick’ Seddon, on a tour of New Zealand, described his trip overland from Te Kūiti to Mōkau, which was done in a four-horse drag, as a pretty rough one. On arrival at Mōkau the wire rope broke on the punt, necessitating the swimming of the horses across the river for eight miles, while the prime minister was rowed across in a boat.

Mystery surrounded three men on horseback who were observed ascending the long sloping hills that rose directly above Te Kūiti. The men, Constables Hyde, McConachie, and Nikora, returned the same night drenched to the skin, horses and men covered in mud.

The news soon spread - they had been raiding a sly grog store at Paemako, about 30 miles distant. When the store came into sight one of the constables had warned, ‘We are spotted.’

A gallop was made to the store and once inside, they took charge of the place and stripped it of its illicit alcohol. After a meal and the horses had been fed, a start was made for home but it was not long before the sky became inky black and rain came down in torrents.

They were on a track, not a road, struggling over roots, stumps, logs, and through swamps and bog holes. It was well

their horses were used to such country. At last a whare was reached where the billy was boiled. A pannikin of tea and a hard biscuit were greatly appreciated, while the rain hammered on the roof. But if they remained there the night the horses would go hungry, so they pushed on.

At the whare they were provided with an impromptu lantern, the bottom knocked out of a bottle, turned upside down, and a lighted candle dropped into the neck of it. Another start was made, one of the constables heading the procession with the lantern. All went well for a little while, when suddenly a horse and rider were precipitated into a swamp and bogged. With a long, strong pull from his mates they were once more on terra firma and at long last Te Kūiti was reached.

At Ōtorohanga Mr Harrison and a companion went out wild cattle hunting. Soon they came across a wild bull, which they fired at. When Mr Harrison ran out to see what had become of him he came face to face with another bull which he had not seen. This bull immediately charged and knocked Mr Harrison down, wounding him. Luckily his companion was a cool and brave man who dispatched the animal in time to save Mr Harrison’s life.

Three young men left Hamilton at half past five in the morning on their bicycles, and rode through to the Waitomo Caves, where they spent an hour and a half. They then started on their return journey, and reached Hamilton at 11.30pm, having been just I8 hours on the road, and the distance travelled close on 100 miles.

Forces beneath our feet

By Janine Krippner

I’ve been thinking about the vast, interconnected processes that shape our world. As a geoscientist - someone who studies the Earth - I work across scales that range from thousands of kilometres down to microscopic levels requiring a microscope to see. Even relatively small volcanic events can have catastrophic effects for us, but they pale in comparison to the immense forces that drive volcanic activity in the first place.

In relatively recent times it has been wellestablished that the Earth’s outer crust is made up of tectonic plates that slowly shift over time.

These plates interact in different ways: some are forced beneath others in subduction zones, some grind past each other along transform boundaries, and others pull apart at divergence zones. Come back in a million years or so and our regions will look quite different.

headlines with claims that Africa is “splitting apart” - though this process has been happening for 25 to 30 million years at about the same rate as our fingernails grow.

One place where a spreading ridge reaches the surface is Iceland. Most of these ridges are hidden beneath the ocean, leaving much to be explored. These vast regions are where new oceanic crust is formed, giving rise to impressive fault systems, deep valleys, and volcanic activity that shapes the seafloor. The salt deposits I mentioned last week can flow across these zones, adding another layer to their complexity. A great example of this is the Red Sea Rift.

Inglewood Office 80 Rata St, PO Box 124, Inglewood 06 756 6032 • Kuriger.Inglewood@parliament.govt.nz

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King Country Virtual Office 021 815 017 Kuriger.Kingcountry@parliament.govt.nz

Here in the North Island, we sit near the Hikurangi Subduction Zone, where the Pacific Plate is pushed beneath the Australian Plate. The Pacific Plate—Earth’s largest tectonic plate—is surrounded by a network of active zones forming the infamous Pacific Ring of Fire. The South Island lies along a transform boundary, and further south, the pattern reverses, with the Australian Plate subducting beneath the Pacific Plate. Our region is geologically dynamic, to say the least.

One tectonic feature we don’t have in our neck of the woods is a divergence zone, where plates spread apart, creating new land. Some of the most well-known examples include the Mid-Atlantic Ridge and the East Pacific Rise. There’s also the East African Rift Valley, often making

The discovery of plate tectonics revolutionised our understanding of Earth. What was once a groundbreaking theory, only widely accepted in the 1960s, is now fundamental to how we study our planet. And yet, we are still uncovering new insights. With advances in ocean mapping, technology, and computing power, we continue to refine our understanding of the forces that create and shape the landscapes we depend on.

In just this short discussion, I’ve touched on processes that span timescales and distances almost beyond comprehension. It has taken generations of scientific inquiry to reach this level of understanding -and there is still much more to learn. Within our lifetimes new discoveries will change the way we think about different aspects of our incredible planet. I look forward to sharing new discoveries with you.

ON SHAKY GROUND

Dick Seddon crossing the Mokau River by rowboat, with his horse swimming behind.

Waiting to ride out…

By Chris Gardner

Otorohanga Riding for the Disabled is look forward to the establishment of a rural hub near Otewa.

Riding for the Disabled equine manager Rebecca Hurley told Otorohanga District Council the organisation, based at Island Reserve, in Orihari Terrace, had faced several challenges over the last two years.

“One of the horses was stolen,” Hurley said. “In the winter kids set our property on fire, and we lost half of our property.”

“We had a stallion break into our property.”

The operation’s seven horses had also

been spooked by fireworks, and there were sometimes access issues due to other people parking.

Hurley was joined by president Sarah Snookes and volunteer co-ordinator Dianna Janett to present the council with a feasibility study into the proposed rural hub by APR Consultants on the project.

“It says that it would be a good opportunity for Otorohanga to have a rural hub,” Janett told The News.

The council is in the process of setting up a trust to administer the project after Otorohanga resident John Oliver purchased Colin and Dianne Murphy’s Mangawhero Road farm in 2023 and gifted 9.3 hectares to the council for use by Riding for the Disabled and other community groups.

The concept includes the construction of an indoor stadium, enabling events to be held all year.

Janett told The News her organisation served about 30 youth from Maihihi, Ōtorohanga, Otewa, Piopio, and Te Kūiti, and discussions were underway to invite riders from Taumarunui.

The organisation is seeking more volunteers to help support the operation on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

“We really respect what you guys do,” said Otorohanga mayor Max Baxter. “Let’s hope it comes to fruition sooner or later.”

Police: take more care

In the wake of a fatal crash at the weekend, police have renewed calls for care on the King Country roads. Members of the community have been asked to play their part in decreasing fatalities and serious injuries on our roads.

Sunday’s crash left one person dead on Kawhia Road, State Highway 31. The Serious Crash Unit examined the scene near Oparau and the death will be referred to the coroner.

It follows at least two other crashes in the area, both resulting in critical injuries, in recent weeks

“These crashes have a ripple effect in the community, affecting other motorists, witnesses and people who are first on the scene. Every fatal crash also has an impact on emergency services personnel,” Waikato road policing manager Inspector Jeff Penno told The News.

“Even though the speed limit on rural roads may be 80 or 100kph, it does not always mean motorists can travel safely at that speed. Please drive to the conditions and the nature of the road you are on.”

Three cars and a truck were involved in a crash on March 20, Ormsby Road, State Highway 39, between Puketotara and Tihiroa. One person, who suffered critical injuries, was airlifted to hospital.

The following evening, State Highway 30 was closed following a two-vehicle crash near Kopaki, north of Benneydale. Three people received critical injuries while a third sustained serious injuries.

More care must be taken regarding four behaviours that contribute to fatalities and injuries – speed, driving while impaired or fatigued, distracted drivers and improper restraints – Insp Penno adds.

“These types of crashes are avoidable, but it requires motorists to make conscious decisions to focus on driving safe. Police focus on targeting these behaviours as we know the tragic consequences of these crashes could be avoided.”

Otorohanga Riding for the Disabled operates from Island Reserve but is looking forward to moving to a rural hub near Otewa.

Waitomo Way

Thousands flock to The Great NZ Muster

It will be a day to remember for the Waitomo District after hosting one of the most successful street festival events since its inception, The Great New Zealand Muster. Thousands of people from all over the world flocked to Te Kūiti on Saturday 29 March to take part in the festivities.

The Great NZ Muster supports the annual three-day-long NZ Shearing Championships and NZ Shears Running of the Sheep. The town was a buzz and the streets were full of people. Stall numbers increased on previous years, and patronage was an alltime high.

The Harmonic Resonators was also a popular hit with the crowd with their amazing melodies and unique take on classic popular songs.

Thank you to everyone for an amazing day and an even bigger thank you to Universal Beef Packers, The Lines Company, NZ Shearing Committee and Tomotuki Marae.

Are we better together??

The Government has told every council across the country to look at the options for their water delivery services and to make sure everyone is getting a high-quality service that is affordable for the future.

Over the past decade, our council has spent a considerable amount on upgrading our wastewater infrastructure and water treatment plants.

However, significant investment is needed to continue upgrading and repairing aging watermains and pipes, and to meet new legislation and increased compliance. We are inviting submissions on two options

for delivering our water services: Stand-alone (existing arrangements)

Creating a joint Council-Controlled Organisation (CCO) with other Waikato councils

We have done a lot of work to determine what is best for our district, and the CCO proposal –currently called ‘Waikato Water Done Well’ – has emerged as Council’s preferred option.

Do you agree? Have your say on our Water Services Consultation www.waitomo.govt.nz/council/haveyoursay/ water-services-consultation/

We are seeking your feedback on three proposals within our Draft Annual Plan 2025 – 2026.

The first relates to the Waitomo District Landfill. As volumes of waste decrease due to reduced commercial volumes, and as operating costs increase, the viability of this landfill is becoming questionable.

The second relates to a seawall built by Council in Mōkau in 2015. This seawall is failing, and either needs to be removed or re-built. The cost of either option needs to be paid for out of rates, and so whether such costs should be covered by Mōkau, districtwide ratepayers, or a mix of both is a question we’re seeking feedback on.

The third relates to whether we should begin to remove the District Wide Benefit Rates for water and wastewater whereby all properties in the district, whether connected or not to a public water or wastewater scheme, are rated equally to cover 10% of the costs of water and wastewater in urban areas.

We are also seeking feedback on our propsed fees and charges schedule, our Rates Remission Policy and Revenue and Financing Policy. Visit our website to make a submission: www.waitomo.govt.nz/

From track to trail and back

By Jon Rawlinson

Ōtorohanga’s Trevor De Malmanche is no stranger to the chequered flag. He recently won motorcycling’s New Zealand Cross-country nationals, securing the veteran (35-44 years) class.

“Yeah, it was really good,” he says. “I’ve been trying to win the series for a few years now.”

The final two rounds of the series, held in Gore recently followed two rounds in Rewa north of Feilding earlier in the year.

Competing as a veteran, Trevor is relatively new to cross-country racing, however he is an old hand when it comes to motorsport in general. Along with his father, Steve, Trevor was a regular winner at Kihikihi Speedway exchanging four wheels for two and back again.

“We went to speedway for years and

won New Zealand titles in that,” he recalls.

“I was driving Falcons and set a record – three national titles in one season – that no one’s been able to beat.

But I’ve always raced bikes, including motocross and other bits and pieces.”

While some of the best in crosscountry haven’t needed to cross paths (or trails) with Trevor in the fiercely contested senior grade, at least one more Malmanche is on his way.

Son, Max, 15, contested this year’s nationals as a junior but he will join the senior ranks soon enough, Trevor confirms.

“We just finished a sprint series before we went down to finish the nationals – both me and Max both podiumed in that,” he says.

“In the cross-country, Max finished around sixth or seventh this time. He’s turning 16 next month, so hopefully

next year should be his year, his last one in the juniors.”

Max isn’t the only one from the next generation of De Malmanches setting out to score big wins on the backs of bikes – Trevor’s daughters, Ella, 17, and Gemma, 14 have also been competing.

His children’s interest in riding rekindled Trevor’s own, he adds.

“I got back into riding when my young fella started. The kids were all knee high to a grasshopper when we began going to kids’ camps and now the whole family rides bikes now.”

The nationals also saw Taupo’s Brad Groombridge claim senior honours with Nixon Parkes (Te Awamutu) securing a clean sweep in the junior grade. Other winners included Stratford’s Megan Collins (senior women), Waitoa’s Chad McGovern (under-85cc class) and Rotorua’s Grace Fowler (junior women).

Cross country calling: Trevor De Malmanche riding at Crookston in West Otago.

Photo: Geoff Guthrie Photography

Water strength in numbers

Seven Waikato district councils are discussing joining forces to form one council-controlled water organisation while two others want their own and another is sitting on the fence. Chris Gardner reports it’s far from a done deal.

They call themselves the Super Seven and one of them has gone as far to say they’re prepared to become the Energetic Eight if another district wants in.

Hauraki, Matamata-Piako, Ōtorohanga, South Waikato, Taupō, Waipā, and Waitomo district councils have all signed a heads of agreement to create a council-controlled organisation (CCO) called Waikato Water Done Well.

Hamilton city and Waikato district are looking to create their own CCO to be responsible for delivering drinking and wastewater services while Thames

Coromandel is having a bob each way.

Water reform is one of the most significant events in local government since 1989 when Brian Elwood consolidated 800 plus city, borough and county councils plus the rabbit and road boards into 80 local authorities.

The Labour government had a crack at solving the water problem with its Three Waters solution - drinking, waste and storm water with four publicly owned regional entities - failed miserably and now the coalition government is having a go.

Some are calling it merger by stealth but for the moment the most important

deadline facing councils is to decide by the end of June and by September 3 they must have submitted a plan to the governmentmandated Local Water Done Well legislation for implementation by June 30 next year.

The Waikato Mayoral Forum sent a delegation to Wellington in February to inform local government minister Simon Watts of its progress. Sources say he was impressed.

Of the Super Seven, only three have progressed to identifying Waikato Water Done Well as their preferred option to take to public consultation with an enhanced status quo ring fenced model before settling on a final decision in June.

Waipā District Council, as the council with the largest ratepayer base, voted to consult on joining the six other councils on February 12 and is already out in the community with brochures and advertising.

Waitomo and South Waikato district councils did the same late last month while Ōtorohanga is to choose between Waikato Water Done Well and an enhanced status quo model this month.

will remain vested in individual councils because it is so strongly linked to roading. Ageing infrastructure, population growth and environmental considerations are reform drivers.

Of the other councils yet to decide, the shakiest would appear to be Taupō and Hauraki.

Financial data presented at an Ōtorohanga elected members workshop last month showed the average charge per connection in 2027/28 would be $2792 under Waikato Water Done Well, increasing to $2988 in 2033/34, while going it alone would cost $2956 in 2027/28, increasing to $3070 in 2033/34.

Councillors favoured Waikato Water Done Well in the areas of financial sustainability, operational effectiveness, partnerships, and regional leverage. But an enhanced status quo scored higher in the areas of community connectedness and maintaining viability.

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Taupō is considering three options, Hauraki four possibilities and Matamata-Piako two. Hauraki Service Delivery group manager Adrian de Laborde said he was preparing a council briefing paper on considering a shared services model and contracting drinking and wastewater out to a third-party contractor in addition to Waikato Water Done Well and enhanced status quo.

Thames-Coromandel has a tougher decision. The district is a long way from Hamilton and Waipā – a mountain range and hundreds of kilometres between them. They are talking to the two Waikato options though and there is even talk of a Bay of Plenty possibility, but they are running out of time.

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“We have not quite got there,” says deputy mayor Terry Walker.

“We are in the final stages of looking at the options. It’s a pretty big decision, one of the biggest we have to make.”

“It’s a bit early yet,” says mayor Len Salt after asking the Government for more time to make a decision. “There’s still a lot of work to do in the meantime.”

Waipā mayor Susan O’Regan says councils needed to be open minded until they had picked a preferred option.

“Some are a little further down the path than others.”

There was a lot of trust between mayors and chief executives helped by the relationship with Vaughan Payne who is leading the Water Done Well work on behalf of the mayoral forum and local iwi.

Waikato Water Done Well would welcome Thames Coromandel District Council as its eighth council if it was picked as a preferred option.

“We would never turn our back on a district in need,” says O’Regan.

The purpose of the joint council-controlled water organisation is to govern and manage drinking water and waste water, between a fifth and a quarter of the operation of most district councils. Storm water management

“As staff, what we are trying to get is a consistent approach across all of the modelling.

“We want to compare apples with apples with all of the modelling. We have to consult with the community on the minimum of two options,” says de Laborde.

“We want to work with other Waikato councils,” says Hauraki mayor Toby Adams.

“It’s a council decision. We will look at the options and make sure that the facts and figures stack up.

“We are currently having conversations with other councils about it. Our best foot forward is always going to be what is best for our community.”

Taupō is considering retaining in-house delivery of water services, its own councilcontrolled water organisation, or choosing Waikato Water Done Well.

That choice is expected mid this month.

Matamata-Piako is considering retaining control or choosing Waikato Water Done Well as its preferred option.

“I don’t want to pre-empt it, I think the evidence is pretty compelling for multiple councils to integrate,” says mayor Adrienne Wilcock.

• This story about Waikato Water Done Well appears in Waikato Business News this month in a series on water options. Wbn.co.nz

From Middle Earth to Mokau

By Chris Gardner

In a bach on a beach lived a dwarf.

Or more accurately an actor who portrayed a dwarf in The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power television series.

“I did 15 days all up, over six weeks,” Colin Jacobs told The News when we discovered him relaxing at his Mōkau bach in the Waitomo District.

He was taking a break from his Te Awamutu-based stonemasonry business Classic Stonework where jobs are described by the tonne of stone required.

Jacobs got the background part without an audition as the Covid-19 pandemic unfolded, having appeared alongside Kevin Sorbo as an evil masked guard in the 1990s television show Hercules.

Then he waited, and waited, for the series to air on Amazon Prime.

He can most notably be glimpsed in the second episode of the first season when the wood elf Legolas is reunited with the dwarf prince Durin IV.

“All the dwarves are in a big cave smashing rocks, sparks flying,” he said.

“It was a pretty full-on time. It was all hush hush, and I had to sign a non-disclosure agreement when I was on the set.”

Jacobs’ scenes were filmed in Kumeū Film Studios, Auckland, after he grew a long dwarf beard of his own over six months and was fitted with a prosthetic nose and wig.

A diminutive actor was made up to look exactly like Jacobs for long and wide shots.

“I did not have any words to say in it.”

Curious, as Jacobs is a man of many, enthusiastic, words.

“It was a really great experience.”

His role in the Middle-earth television

series is not a far cry from his real life. Rather than living in caves hewn from a mountain he lives in a home he crafted from stone a stone’s throw from where he was born at Matariki Maternity Home 58 years ago.

Jacobs has also appeared in television and internet commercials, most notably Te Whatu Ora’s Stick It to Hep C advert which shows patients flipping their middle finger at the camera.

“We had 19 complaints,” he said.

Jacobs got into acting after following up on a suggestion from a crewmate on a 1990s Spirit of Adventure journey.

“It cost $400 to do a photoshoot and I thought I had lost my money, but three weeks later I had a role.”

Today he is listed as talent with Red 11 Model Management in Auckland and is waiting for the phone to ring. Perhaps he will be called back for Season Three of the show?

“Colin is a loveable character and all-round great guy to work with,” said Red 11 Model Management’s Timēna Apa. “We are stoked to be representing him.”

Jacobs recently joined Cambridge band Tunnel Ram as a trumpet player after it dropped its first single Space Invaders on streaming platforms.

“It’s pretty heavy,” he said.

“It’s pretty much dirty rock, or that’s what producer Dave Rhodes calls it. It’s like The Pogues, but not.”

Jacobs is eyeing the Awakino Hotel for a gig.

But for now, Jacobs is content to remember his late wife Nikki who died a year ago from brain cancer.

Jacobs and his mates commemorated Nikki last weekend with a beer and a fishing competition based at his bach.

Te Awamutu stone mason Colin Jacobs remembers his time on The Lord of the Rings: Rings of Power with fondness as he relaxes at his Mōkau bach.

Preparing for autumn

As the cooler mornings setting in Autumn is on its way although a bit slower than normal I feel as it is still so dry but as I write this it looks like rain tonight (Wednesday) right though to Saturday morning lets hope we don’t have any flooding or slips out there. Starting the month off and leading up to the New Moon on April 29th, there’s plenty to do in the garden to prepare for the changing seasons.

Early April: General Cleanup and Preparation

• As the days get shorter and temperatures drop, trees begin shedding their leaves. Collect fallen leaves to compost or mulch. This helps reduce pests and diseases and will help keep your garden neat.

• Remove any spent plants, dead foliage, and flowers from your garden beds. This reduces the chance of diseases like mildew or mould, which thrive on decaying plant material. This is the last month for deadheading roses as By May, roses are generally entering their dormant phase for winter, and it’s better to let them rest rather than continue cutting them back. If you deadhead into May, be cautious not to prune too hard, as roses should be allowed to go into dormancy and prepare

for the colder months.

• Clear any weeds, old stems, or spent vegetable plants. This is also a great time to refresh your soil with compost or organic matter to help the earth rejuvenate for the upcoming seasons.

• Clear any weeds, old stems, or spent vegetable plants. This is also a great time to refresh your soil with compost or organic matter to help the earth rejuvenate for the upcoming seasons.

• Remove any spent plants, dead foliage, and flowers from your garden beds. This reduces the chance of diseases like mildew or mould, which

thrive on decaying plant material. This is the last month for deadheading roses as By May, roses are generally entering their dormant phase for winter, and it’s better to let them rest rather than continue cutting them back. If you deadhead into May, be cautious not to prune too hard, as roses should be allowed to go into dormancy and prepare for the colder months.

My favourite plant in my garden at the moment is Persicaria amplexicaulis | Firetail if is covered in flowers, is great to add to a flower posey and the bees absolutely love it to.

Club rugby’s a super seven

By Norris Woodbine

Over the past few weeks there has been much conjecture as to the makeup of The King Country Club Rugby Premiership and now it is time for the talking to stop and the action to commence.

Two clubs who competed in the premiership in 2024 have withdrawn for 2025 which leaves a competition between just seven teams - which must place some pressure on the Union to scrutinise possibilities moving forward.

Bush United has been under pressure for some time as their player base has gradually shrunk and it reflects a trend among all North King Country Clubs fighting to attract a rapidly diminishing player base.

Their withdrawal is not a surprise to many.

It should be noted that there are now two rugby league clubs in the district which contributes to competition for player numbers.

However, the withdrawal of Taupo Sports club has sent shock waves throughout the community. To champions just two years ago after a stellar run on the top of the table to withdrawing is hero to zero so to speak.

It means last year’s champions Taumarunui Districts, Taupo Marist, Tongariro United, Taumarunui Eels, Piopio, Waitete and Waitomo will compete over two full rounds, albeit with a bye in each round.

Taupo Marist appear to be high on the radar as being favourites to improve on the 2024 second placing and will be well prepared having just completed a successful Spillane Cup tournament, winning their final over Whanganui Marist.

Tongariro United are rumoured to have a very strong squad having picked up some leading players from Taupo Sports while Taumarunui Districts will be defending their title with gusto.

The Te Kuiti outfit Waitete have an air of

confidence in their camp with a new coach in Gareth Williams who will be assisted by Josh Ostern a very experienced player with a stellar career behind him.

They have a mixture of experienced players and some exciting young talent and completed their build up with an impressive 36–5 victory over Waikato First Division Club Frankton.

Head Coach Steve Edwards returns for his second season at Waitomo and appears to have built a committed group of young players as he looks to improve their position on the table.

Piopio has crept quietly along under the radar and have appointed the experienced Craig Bell as their head coach so should lack nothing in the form of fitness.

Over the last few years they have built up a solid reputation and this season should be no exception.

On Saturday Piopio will host Waitete at the domain in a match up that has seen some real ding dongs as local rivalry comes to the fore.

Waitete have enjoyed an extensive build up with preseason fixtures against Te Aroha’s Cobras and Frankton and will possibly be favoured as Piopio will be having their first hit out for the season.

Out at Waitomo Domain the home side face a mammoth task facing competition favourites Taupo Marist.

Waitomo had two preseason games against Waikato First Division sides Ōhaupō and Te Rapa and showed enough to suggest they will have an improved performance; Marist will underestimate them at their peril.

In Taumarunui there will be a mouthwatering encounter between the two heavy weights as Districts host Tongariro United in a match expected to go either way and hard to predict from a distance.

Taumarunui Eels have the bye so can sit back to see what unfolds.

All Premiership games kick off at 2.30pm.

Who can get the results right? Our rugby writer Norris Woodbine has lined up a panel and challenged them to predict the winners in the King Country rugby competition each week. Here’s how they see the opening weekend going…

Katrina Christison

Tidy Gardens

Waitomo flyhalf Mitch Clark about to pass to Eden Kawhena during a preseason match.

Peter Hurley Waitomo Piopio Taumarunui Districts

Carlos Cressey Taupo Marist Waitete Taumarunui Districts

Craig McKellar Taupo Marist Waitete Tongariro United

Christen Dimond Waitomo Waitete Tongariro United

Javana stars at Horse of the Year

By Jesse Wood

A member of King Country’s Fagan family has won the Horse of the Year event this month.

Year 5 Ōtewā School student Javana Johnston, 9, won her category A show hunter class at the Tomoana Showgrounds in Hastings. The youngster has been riding horses since she was toddler.

There were about 1400 riders competing for titles. Javana and her pony Starlight Samara competed against children much older than her across four days.

Her mum Julia Johnston, niece of shearing legend Sir David Fagan, was proud of her daughter’s efforts.

“It’s the second time Javana has competed at Horse of the Year,” Julia said. “Last year she was the youngest rider competing in show hunter and came home with a couple of wins and placings. This year we brought home the big one.”

Javana also rode a category B class pony, Starlight Sahara.

“She had her challenging moments with Starlight Sahara this year though. She started off okay with sixth in her first class but ended up having a couple of falls during the week.

“She got a sportsmanship spot prize for the way she conducted herself and the kindness towards her pony after her falls.

Julia grew up in Te Kūiti before moving north to Whitianga.

The family moved to Ōtewā, on the banks of the Waipā River near Ōtorohanga, when Javana started primary school.

Along with Te Kūiti-based sister Tina Fagan, Julia competed in pony events in her youth too.

“I actually bred Javana’s ponies. Me and my sister Tina, we breed our Starlight horses and ponies. I’ve been breeding ponies since before I had kids in hopes that they would want to ride as well. I got lucky with my first one,” Julia said.

“I have always been trying to chase that quality of pony since I finished in pony Grand Prix way back in my day.

“This year, not only did one of my ponies take out the category A with Javana, but I also had my pony stallion take out the category C with one of my other riders, Te Kauwhata-based Cameron Young.”

Javana also placed in five other events as well as placing third in the national category

A high point series, third overall in the 12 years and under national equitation series - the rider class, and third in the national series on her category B high points with Starlight Sahara.

In 2024, she placed sixth overall in all her high point series classes for the national series, bumping her way up three spots this year.

“Javana placed at the Takapoto showjumping event last winter as well, but we’ve concentrated on the show hunter this

season because she wanted to go for those national classes,” Julia said.

“I think she would like to take out the win. She wants to chase those points for the national series.

“But it’s pretty amazing to win the pony of the year class this year. To come home as number one.”

It was a family affair for Javana and Julia. Tina and her two girls Hannah, 12, and Twyla Ashwell, 11, also attended.

Javana’s cousins both brought home wins and placings in show jumping.

Tina said the competitive spirit is part of the girls’ blood and they understand the commitment it takes in any sport to be a champion.

Riding Starlight Storm, Hannah placed first in the pony 1.10m event and third in speed pony champion of the year 1.20m.

With her second pony, Starlight Irwin, Hannah came first in the equitation medal of the year 13 years and under event as well as third in the pony 1.10m championship.

Twyla rode Starlight Ishtar, placing second in category C high points and fifth in the equitation medal of the year 13 years and under.

Riding her second mount Quince, Twyla finished sixth in the pony 1.05m championship category.

The sisters also represented Waikato in the Pony Club’s Show Jumping teams event gaining second place.

“The three cousins did very, very well for themselves,” Julia said.

“Tina and I always rode as kids, but to also have our three girls come through, compete and do really well is quite amazing.

“I think they’ve been very lucky to have mums that have ridden and bred horses.”

Javana Johnston and Starlight Samara leap over an obstacle.

Photo: Heidi Clotworthy

Piopio on Owl Farm podium

By Jesse Wood

Piopio College took out the bronze medal at the third education and agriskills event at Owl Farm, St Peter’s School Cambridge recently.

Students from five King Country, Waipā and Hauraki high schools converged at the school.

Since 2015, Owl Farm has been one of three demonstration farms in New Zealand, a joint venture with Lincoln University and funding partners.

The 160-hectare dairy farm is between the St Peter’s campus and the Waikato River.

For 90 years, the land has grown produce for the school kitchen and gives the students opportunities to learn farming skills.

About 100 teenagers from Hauraki Plains College, Ōtorohanga College, Piopio College, St Peter’s and Te Awamutu College put their agricultural abilities to the test at the event.

Attendees completed eight learning modules before an interschool agri-

skills race after lunch.

Race activities included tying a terminal fence knot before attaching it to an insulator to set up a portable fence; identifying beef breeds; mixing and using spray chemicals; identifying income and expenses; identifying fertiliser and seed types; potting and identifying native plants; labelling parts of a cow; stacking and securing hay bales and dressing a wound.

The host school came out on top with teams in first and second, followed by Piopio College with the bronze.

“It means a lot. We kept our heads up, worked as a team, got through it and got the win,” St Peter’s winning team member Hunter Redman said.

“I reckon the secret was just working as a team. We prepared a lot coming up to this and we were mentally prepared. We just kept at it.”

The champion team now have their school’s name engraved on the Owl Farm Secondary Schools Agri Challenge shield twice.

Owl Farm demonstration manager

Jo Sheridan said the organisers were thankful for the help from Young Farmer clubs in the Cambridge area and Owl Farm’s industry partners along with the St Peter’s agriculture teachers.

“Even though it was very hot the students were great participants - asking lots of questions in the education modules in the morning and giving everything a go in the agri-skills race,” Sheridan said.

“Many of these students will go on to compete at Regional Young Farmer events where they test their skills amongst the best.

“These events give students confidence in their abilities to contribute to the food and fibre industry and allow them to see the huge range of opportunities available in the industry.

“We are grateful for the efforts of the teachers that build on these skills in the classroom and we are excited to see the contribution these students will make in the food and fibre industry.”

KNOW YOUR PROFESSIONAL

SELLING AND BUYING A PROPERTY AT THE SAME TIME

It’s common in New Zealand for people to sell their current property and buy a new property contemporaneously. Selling rst, then looking for a new home is less stressful than selling and buying at the same time. This is not always possible or realistic. It is important to meet with your

lawyer when beginning this process. Presenting your home at its best can result in a higher sale price, which adds to your equity. It is crucial that you crunch the numbers including real estate commission and legal fees before listing your home to determine what price bracket you will

be able to a ord.

If you are looking to sell your current property and purchase a new one, or you have found your dream property to purchase but have a property to sell to be able to do so, please get in touch with your solicitor to get the ball rolling and avoid any issues that may arise.

HOW MUCH IS THAT DOGGY IN THE WINDOW?

So you’re thinking about getting a furry companion or you’ve had one adopt you. How exciting! Owning a pet adds a lot of love and value to the household. It also comes with a lot of responsibility for you, the owner, to provide them with their basic needs for a full and balanced life. Before getting a dog or cat, it is important to consider your lifestyle, time commitment, nancial resources, living situation, and what kind

of companion you’re seeking. It pays to research the breed of animal to identify speci c needs such as exercise and training requirements, grooming needs and any pre-disposed conditions. At this point, prior to getting your pet, we would also recommend looking into pet insurance. There are several di erent providers that o er a variety of cover options, ranging from basic accident cover to more comprehensive plans. Though we aren’t

able to recommend a speci c company we can say how much of a di erence pet insurance can make for owners presented with tough decisions, who are then able to focus solely on the welfare of their pet rather than the nancial side of things. Prevention is always better than a cure! Pop in or give us a call to nd out more on how you can be more proactive with your pet’s health and the costs associated with their ongoing care.

THE DENTAL DIET

It is well-known that sugars and carbohydraterich foods negatively impact our oral health. However, there are foods that can be bene cial to our teeth when incorporated into our daily diet.

Crunchy foods such as carrots and celery stimulate saliva production and act as natural toothbrushes due to their high bre content. Increasing saliva ow helps ush out food

particles, increases the remineralization of teeth, and neutralizes the pH level in the mouth. Dairy products such as milk and cheese contain micronutrients like calcium and phosphorus, which contribute to the strength of tooth enamel.

Xylitol, a type of sweetener helps reduce tooth cavities by reducing the available nutrients for bacteria in the mouth, as they cannot ferment

xylitol. Xylitol most commonly found in sugarfree chewing gum which can further helps stimulate saliva production.

Lastly, drinking plenty of water supports oral health by preventing dry mouth and washing away food particles.

In conclusion, maintaining a well-balanced diet in conjunction with limiting snacking throughout the day aids in achieving better oral health.

IMPORTANCE OF TRAVEL INSURANCE

I consider Travel Insurance a compulsory inclusion WHEN BOOKING to cover nonrefundable arrangements. Often it is not until something goes wrong that you realise the importance of insurance, and if you haven’t purchased it initially you simply aren’t covered. Air New Zealand’s ongoing Rolls Royce engine recall / Pratt and Whitney

engine issues are a classic example. While the airline will assist with rebooking your ights to another time/day, they don’t take responsibility for other arrangements pre-booked ie; accommodation, rental car hire, pre-booked parking etc. A new bene t Covermore o ers is “Cancellation Plus Cover” whereby you can cancel for any

reason up to 48 hours prior to departure and you can claim 75% of your pre-paid travel arrangements back (up to $10k per policy), no questions asked. When you’re spending thousands on a trip, its silly to not consider insurance for a few hundred to cover the unforeseen, as we just never know what may be around the corner.

KELSI BARNETT

GEORGIA ELLEN

Piopio College students prepare to stack and secure hay bales during the interschool race.

Photo: Jesse Wood

Crews shine at waka ama

By Jesse Wood

There was plenty of action on the water last week for Te Awamutu and King Country students competing at the Lake Karāpirobased 2025 Maadi rowing regatta and Waka Ama Secondary School Nationals in Rotorua.

Te Awamutu College’s Maadi cohort saw Maiara Moimoi place second in the girls’ under-17 single sculls D final before joining Tessa Chappell to claim first in the girls’ under-18 double sculls C final.

Several other Te Awamutu single sculls competitors did well in their finals, just missing out on the top three.

Hunter Coleman placed fourth is his under-17 C final, as did Casey Lee Baker in her under-18 D final and Keegan Jordaan was sixth in the boys’ under-18 D final.

“All the rowers performed the best they have all season. Some crews came away with personal best times as well which was a win for them,” Te Awamutu Rowing Club representative Alya Mexted said.

“They all rowed extremely well, technique wise and effort wise, and the school rowing team finished their season on a high with these achievements. It’s a big positive moving forward into next season.”

Cambridge High School, Te

Kūiti High School and Ōtorohanga College had competitors at the Lake Tikitapu-based waka ama event. The five-day event had a record 2200 students competing.

The Cambridge Te Oko Horoi crew placed first in the under-16 girls’ W6 250m Te Kei final.

Te Kūiti took home three third placings in the under-16 boys’ and under-16 girls’ W6 500m final as well as the under-19 girls W6 500m final.

Ōtorohanga College’s Darius Mulligan-Hughes after he finished 12th in the country in both the J19s elite divisions.

Roar deals...

The hunt is on! Although entries are now closed, this year’s Āria Hunt starting today is expected to see more hunters than usual trying their luck at bagging a buck.

In addition, as the Easter break falls square in the crosshairs of peak roar period, more hunters in the bush means extra vigilance is required, NZ Deerstalkers Association’s Gwyn Thurlow warns.

“I would like to remind hunters to be particularly cautious at this time, which is the busiest time of year in the hunting calendar. Be beyond all doubt when identifying your target and always assume anything you hear or glimpse in the bush could be another human until you have a 100 per cent positive identification.”

Even veteran marksmen should take time to ensure they’re up to date with licencing and firearm safety regulations and hunters should stick to agreed hunting areas.

“The ‘roar’ may be a prized stag or another hunter,” Thurlow adds. “If you hear a stag from your friend’s area then, rather than entering their ground and risk a tragedy, be happy on their behalf and focus on your own hunt instead.”

Across 1. Rostrum (4)

4. Figure of speech (6) 8. Resembling a dream (7) 9. Splurge (5) 10. Hard wood (4) 11. Wedlock (8) 13. Resolute (9) 17. Merchant (8) 19. Nemesis (4)

21. Precise (5)

Last week

22. Pacify (7)

23. Money lender (6)

24. Mantel (4)

2. Debts (7)

3. A large number or amount (4)

4. Seasoning (4,3,6)

5. Act cruelly (8)

6. Immature insect (5)

7. Procreate (5)

8. Location (4) 12. Negotiator (8) 14. Hardship (7) 15. Succinct (5) 16. Surrender (4) 18. Snares (5) 20. Without (4)

Across: 1. Basic, 4. Calmly, 8. Centred, 9. Tryst, 10. Adept, 11. Inertia, 12. Desert, 14. Urgent, 17. Outcome, 19. Queue, 21. Tired, 22. Unearth, 23. Decree, 24. Threw.

Down: 1. Back and forth, 2. Singe, 3. Curator, 4. Caddie, 5. Lithe, 6. Layette, 7. Steal the show, 13. Set free, 15. Request, 16. Reduce, 18. Order, 20. Error.

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SACK SACRED SADLY SAFARI SAFFRON SALAD SATISFY SAVAGE SAY SCHEME SCRAGGY SCRATCH

SEASON SEEDLING SEMANTICS SENIOR SENSUAL SEPIA SEQUIN SEWAGE SHADOW SHAFT SHINY SHYLY

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Te Kuiti 76 Taupiri Street

Kuiti 44

(extension)

Te Kuiti 9 Craig Terrace

Te Kuiti 2 Saint Lukes Crescent

Te Kuiti 33 Te Kuiti Road

with Jan Bilton

Chicken winners

‘Chicken for the cook is what canvas is for the painter.’ Anthelme Brillat-Savarin French Gourmet.

And he’s right. A painting is all about colours and chicken dishes can be an eclectic mix of colours. For example, red Italian chicken cacciatore; yellow and (spinach) green Indian curries; herby green/brown French casseroles; and goldenbrown Kiwi roasts.

Chicken engages the taste buds. The bland flesh makes it internationally popular because it combines harmoniously with so many spices, herbs, textures, fruits and vegetables, it encourages cooks to be creative.

Versatile chicken can be poached, fried, grilled, stir-fried, baked, roasted, cooked in the microwave and air-fryer. It’s relatively inexpensive compared to other meats and there’s little waste.

And don’t throw the bones. Use them to make a good stock for cool-day soups. Brown the bones in a little oil in a saucepan, add some chopped onion, carrots and celery stalks, plus a few fresh herbs. Add water to cover and simmer gently for 1-2 hours until reduced by half. Cool and store in an airtight container in the freezer.

To paraphrase a popular saying: ‘You can count your chickens when it comes to hatching great meals’.

Peanut butter chicken curry

The moist, dark meat of chicken thighs is perfect for curries, stews and casseroles.

2 tablespoons canola oil

1 medium onion, diced

1 teaspoon each: whole cumin seeds, grated garlic, grated root ginger

750g skinned and boned chicken thighs

1/4 teaspoon each: chilli flakes, ground turmeric

3-4 medium plum tomatoes, chopped

125g frozen spinach

3 tablespoon each: peanut butter, coconut cream (or regular cream)

Heat the oil in a large non-stick frying pan on mediumlow heat. Add the onion and spices and cook, stirring

occasionally, until the onion is softened.

Increase the heat to high. Add the chicken and cook the chicken about 7 minutes each side. Stir in the chilli flakes, turmeric and tomatoes. Cover and cook on medium for 15 minutes. Stir occasionally.

Stir in the spinach and cook for a few minutes, until heated through. Combine the peanut butter and coconut cream, then stir into the chicken mixture and heat through. Great served with naan bread or rice. Serves 4-5.

Marcio’s chicken marbella

A twist on this Spanish delight from my friend Marcio.

Marinade: 4 large cloves garlic

1/4 cup each: red wine vinegar, capers, extra virgin olive oil

4 small bay leaves

12 pitted prunes

1 1/2 tablespoons dried oregano salt and pepper to taste

Chicken: 4 large chicken legs (thighs and drums attached)

1/2 cup white wine

1/4 cup brown sugar

1/2 cup pitted green olives

2 tablespoons chopped parsley

To make the marinade, combine all the ingredients in a casserole large enough to hold the chicken in one layer. Stir well.

Add the chicken, moving it around so the legs are well coated. Cover and marinate in the fridge for at least 1 hour or overnight, turning occasionally.

Preheat the oven to 180°C.

Remove the casserole and bring to room temperature. Add the wine and sprinkle the chicken with brown sugar. Bake for 30 minutes. Turn the chicken over and baste with the juices. Add the green olives. Bake for another 30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked. Serve garnished with parsley. Serves 4.

Peri peri chicken

This South African speciality is ‘hot’. Add the chilli powder to taste.

1.2kg chicken portions

5 cloves garlic, crushed

1 onion, finely diced

2 tablespoons paprika

1-2 teaspoons chilli powder

2 tablespoons lemon juice

400g can diced tomatoes

If necessary, cut the chicken in to serving-sized portions. Combine all the other ingredients. Marinate the chicken in the mixture for 2-3 hours in the fridge, turning often.

Preheat a grill or barbecue. Grill for about 15 minutes each side on medium heat, basting often. Serves 4-6.

Peanut butter chicken curry

Marcio’s chicken marbella

•

TAKE NOTICE that Waitomo District Council intends to exercise its statutory powers conferred by s.77 of the Local Government (Rating) Act 2002 in respect of the land described below

1. Apply to the District Court one month after the date of this notice for an order declaring the land to be abandoned, and 2. To authorise Waitomo District Council to sell or lease the land –

Because the rates have not been paid to Waitomo District Council for three (3) years and the rate payer of the land:

(a) is unknown, or

(b) cannot be found after due inquiry and has no known New Zealand agent, or

(c) is deceased and has no personal representative, or

(d) has given notice to the Waitomo District Council of his or her intention to abandon the land or has abandoned the land.

Valuation number: 0585124700

Section 3 Block I Town of Aria (TN70/16 Taranaki land registry) in the name of Kiho Tohengaroa. The property is situated at 1239 Aria Road, Aria and is within the territory of the Waitomo District Council.

Valuation number: 0581125903

Section 45 Block XV Orahiri Survey District (SA3D/570 South Auckland land registry) in the name of Grace Aroarua Yates, Leopold Yates, Kura Brooking, Ngarua William Yates, Armistice Maungarongo Yates, Albert Broughton Yates, Kereruru Ropiha, Pahuwera Katu & Ngutuere Rogers. The property is situated at Oparure Road, Oparure and is within the territory of the Waitomo District Council.

Valuation number: 0588437500

Lot 1 Deposited Plan 27666 (SA825/183 South Auckland land registry) in the name of Enid Joyce Mahora Ormsby & Edwin Daniel Vaikai Ormsby. The property is situated at 9 Nettie Street, Te Kuiti and is within the territory of the Waitomo District Council.

Valuation number: 0585122500

Section 4 Block VIII Aria Township (TN65/123 Taranaki land registry) in the name of Rauputu. The property is situated at 1221 Aria Road, Aria and is within the territory of the Waitomo District Council.

Valuation number: 0588633000A

Lot 2 Deposited Plan 7339 1/2 share of 1011 square metres or less. Leasehold L H805704.2 Flat 1 Deposited Plan South Auckland 47308. (SA41C/872 South Auckland land registry) in the name of Robert Barrett. The property is situated at 36A Hill Street, Te Kuiti and is within the territory of the Waitomo District Council.

Valuation number: 0588633000B

Lot 2 Deposited Plan 7339 1/2 share of 1011 square metres or less. Leasehold L H805704.3 Flat 2 Deposited Plan South Auckland 47308 (SA41C/873 South Auckland land registry) in the name of Albert Ropata Barrett. The property is situated at 36B Hill Street, Te Kuiti and is within the territory of the Waitomo District Council.

If you have an interest or any information to the proposed application by the Waitomo District Council, you should contact Aimee Osborne on 0508 436 269, dmc@mw.org.nz or DMC, DX PA84005, Feilding

This notice is authorised by:

Ben Smit

Chief Executive

Waitomo District Council 20 March 2025

This newspaper is subject to NZ Media Council procedures. A complaint must first be directed in writing, within one month of publication, to the editor’s email address. If not satisfied with the response, the complaint may be referred to the Media Council P O Box 10-879, The Terrace, Wellington 6143. Or use the online complaint form at www. mediacouncil.org.nz

Please include copies of the article and all correspondence with the publication.

Waitomo District Council Draft Annual Plan 2025-26 Consultation

Our draft Annual Plan for the 2025-26 Financial Year outlines the cost of the activities we undertake, and the projects we plan to do and therefore the financial direction for the Waitomo District Council.

We are seeking your feedback on three proposals within our Draft Annual Plan 2025-26. The first relates to the Waitomo District Landfill. As volumes of waste decrease due to reduced commercial volumes, and as operating costs increase, the viability of this landfill is becoming questionable.

The second relates to a seawall built by Council in Mōkau in 2015. This seawall is failing, and either needs to be removed or re-built. The cost of either option needs to be paid for out of rates, and so whether such costs should be covered by Mōkau, districtwide ratepayers, or a mix of both is a question we’re seeking feedback on.

The third relates to whether we should begin to remove the District Wide Benefit Rates for water and wastewater whereby all properties in the district, whether connected or not to a public water or wastewater scheme, are rated equally to cover 10% of the costs of water and wastewater in urban areas.

We are also seeking feedback on our Rates Remission Policy and Revenue and Financing Policy.

We would like to hear your views on these proposals, all outlined in our Consultation Document.

Proposed Fees and Charges 2025-26

We are also seeking feedback on our proposed Fees and Charges schedule for 2025-26. As part of the annual planning process, fees and charges are reviewed to ensure the costs of providing these Council services are recovered by those who use them.

Due to the increased operating costs most fees and charges are being increased by 3%. We need to ensure costs are recovered so that Council services are not subsidised further by rates.

Draft Alcohol Fees Bylaw 2025

Waitomo District Council is seeking feedback on the development of the Draft Alcohol Fees Bylaw 2025.

Council is proposing the new Bylaw to set fees and charges for alcohol licences in Waitomo District. Introducing this Bylaw would allow Council to set the amount it charges to alcohol licence holders (e.g. bars, alcohol stores and supermarkets), to help cover costs relating to alcohol licensing.

Council is proposing to increase alcohol licensing charges by 35% in July 2025, followed by a further 35% in July 2026 to bring the total cost recovery closer to 100%.

You can view/download all the Consultation Documents, supporting information and make a submission online by visiting: www.waitomo.govt.nz/council/haveyoursay

Consultation started on Friday 28 March 2025 and closes at 5pm Wednesday 30 April 2025.

Te Kuiti Cattle Sale Friday, April 4, 2025

Start 12pm

C & L Dunphy

12 15mth Angus Hfrs

10 15mth Red Devon x Hfrs FARM SOLD

Learning Support Teacher

Ōtorohanga College is looking for a Learning Support Teacher. This is an excellent chance to join a friendly, vibrant and dynamic team environment working alongside students with a range of specialised needs

This is a fixed-term, part-time position of 27.5 hours per week, Monday to Friday, term time only.

Part Time Teacher

1 day a week

Are you a collaborative teacher?

Len Sheeran 027 473 5859

MEETINGS

My whānau and I would like to acknowledge the Te Kūiti St John Ambulance, Te Kūiti Fire Brigade and the Westpac Helicopter Services that attended our home at Hauwai Flats, Te Kumi Road on March 11. We are grateful for your help and support during those critical moments and please take this as a personal thank you and acknowledgement to you all.

Arohanui Noddy Green and whānau

WORK WANTED

QUALIFIED builder available for immediate start. Renovations, new builds, decks. No jobs too big or too small. Just ask. Call Jake 022 108 2330.

PUBLIC NOTICES

To apply for this position please email your cover letter and CV to kurthl@otocoll.school.nz

Applications close on Thursday, April 17 at 3pm.

Specialising in re-roofing, roof maintenance, spouting, downpipes and light commercial work and roof leaks Ph 027 493 2502

Need a Decorator - Call Now

Dave Rowe Painter & Decorator

Phone 027 290 8776

decorator@daverowe.co.nz

Servicing the Waipa and Waitomo districts for over 20 years

advertiser. Publication day is Thursday for urban deliveries and Friday morning for rural deliveries. Specifications: For supplied adverts: PDF/X –4 spec, fonts pathed or embedded, text 100% black. Photos & logos – high resolution jpg (300dpi). All files to be large. Colours to be CMYK not RGB. Photos should be colour corrected with a total ink level of approximately 220%. Rate card: Rates are based over a 12-month 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. Invoicing and Payments: For advertisers on a regular schedule invoices will be sent at the end of the month and payment is due by the 20th of the following month, otherwise payment is required by end of day Tuesday in advance of publishing. Accounts in arrears +60 days may be subject to a $95 + GST late payment fee per month. Advertiser is responsible for

We have a position to cover classroom release. There is some flexibility in the day. If you are interested please email principal@ppp.school.nz Start date negotiable.

Teaching Principal

Ko Pureora-o-Kahu te maunga

Ko Waimiha, ko Waipa ngā awa

Ko Mangapeehi, ko Te Hape ngā marae

Ko Rereahu te tupuna

Ko Rereahu te iwi

Ko Benneydale te kura

Anei matau, nō ngā hau e wha Tihei Maūri Ora

An incredible opportunity has opened up for a motivated and successful experienced teacher and leader for our school in Benneydale (Maniaiti).

We are looking for a leader who is:

• a highly effective teacher.

• a leader of curriculum.

• passionate, interested and has a desire to continue the growth of Te Ao Māori, Tikanga Māori and Te Reo Māori in our kura.

• inspired by Play Pedagogy.

• an empathetic, energetic, collaborative leader.

• great with people and communication.

• committed to enabling our tamariki to stand proud no matter where they are.

The position commences no later than Monday 14 July 2025, or earlier by negotiation.

If you are an inspired and passionate educational leader and are keen to undertake the next step in your career, we welcome your application.

Please email Michelle: office@benneydale.school.nz for an application pack

HANDYMAN

Property maintenance and construction Lawns, trees, stump grinding, sections, moss & mould treatments, Chemwash, waterblasting, gutter vac, water tank and trough cleaning fences, retaining, odd jobs and more. References available GST registered.

Mike & Allana 027 350 0836 – info@handy-man.co.nz

Septic Tank Cleaning

Āria Primary School Scale A Principal Release Teacher 0.4 (2 days/week)

Fixed Term Position commences beginning term two 2025 (negotiable). Year 4-6 class. Days worked are also negotiable.

commences when suitable applicant We are seeking a highly motivated inspire and motivate students collaboratively, commitment to your classroom management skills are required. and supportive staff culture. We look

We are seeking a highly motivated and enthusiastic teacher who will inspire and motivate students to learn. Must have a strong curriculum knowledge particularly in literacy and numeracy.

Please send CV plus covering letter Principal, Āria Primary School, 17 Barclay to office@aria.school.nz. For further Pam Voyce.

Strengths in working collaboratively, commitment to your own professional growth and strong classroom management skills are required.

Our school has a passionate and supportive staff culture. We look forward to hearing from you.

Please send CV plus covering letter and names of two referees to The Principal, Āria Primary School, 17 Barclay Road, Āria 3979 or e-mail to office@aria.school.nz.

For further information, contact the principal Pam Voyce. Applications close when a suitable applicant has been found.

Annual General Meeting

Ōtorohanga Historical Society

Sunday, April 6 - 2pm

Ōtorohanga Museum

All welcome

Waitomo District Dog Registration Fees 2025/26

Public Notice is hereby given that the Dog Registration Fees for the 2025/2026 financial year have been set by Council resolution in various categories as set out below:

Registration Fee (including GST) where paid by or on 31 July 2025. Fees apply to dogs aged 3 months and over, and are for the year 1 July 2025 to 30 June 2026 registration.

- Urban owner (as per definition)

- Urban spayed/neutered dogs

- Special owner (Dog Control Policy)

- Gold card holder for urban dogs

- Rural owner

$134

$101

$79

$117

$57

- Rural Dogs > 5. For every 5 rural dogs you register, the 6th dog registration is free if paid on or before registration date.

- Dangerous dog: 150% of the fee that would apply if the dog were not classified as a Dangerous Dog.

- Late registration: 50% of the fee that would have been payable if that dog had been registered on the first day of the registration.

- Disability Assist Dog registration - No charge.

Note: To be eligible, the dog must be certified as a disability assist dog in accordance with Schedule 5 of the Dog Control Act 1996.

Replacement tags

Impound, Seizure

- Seizure (per dog seized )

- Impound - First (registered)

- Impound - First (unregistered)

- Second

- Third and subsequent

- Sustenance (per day)

$5.40

$70

$80

$115

$154

$230

$20

- Veterinary costs Actual costs

- Surrender/disposal (in addition to

$90 applicable impounding charges and sustenance)

Microchipping fee

NOTE: Impounding Fees

$35

The owner of an impounded dog that is not claimed or signed over to Council remains liable for all impounding and sustenance fees, veterinary costs, irrespective of the fate of the dog.

Re-homing of unwanted/ unclaimed dogs (unregistered) dogs will be the applicable registration fee and micro-chipping fee and all other reasonable associated costs.

Permits

Consent to keep more than 2 dogs in the urban area.

Provided that if more than one inspection is required prior to approval, a further fee of $30.00 will apply per inspection.

- Special owner property check

- Barking collar

- Battery for barking collar

- Small collar

- Medium collar

- Large collar

- Xtra large collar

This

$65

$40

$45

$8

$10

$12

$14

$16

SAMDHYAN LIQUOR LTD, a private company of Te Kūiti, 3/35 Carroll St, Te Kūiti has made application to the District Licensing Committee at Waitomo District Council, Te Kūiti for the renewal of an off licence in respect of the premises situated at 3/35 Carroll St, Te Kūiti known as Blackbull Liquor, Te Kūiti. The general nature of the business conducted (or to be conducted) under the licence is bottle store. The days on which and hours during which alcohol is (or is intended to be sold) are Monday to Sunday 9am-10pm. The application may be inspected during ordinary office hours at the office of the Waitomo District Licensing Committee, Waitomo District Council, Queen St, Te Kūiti. Any person who is entitled to object and wishes to object to the issue of the licence may, not later than 25 working days after the date of the publication of this notice, file a notice in writing of the objection with the Secretary of the District Licensing Committee at Waitomo District Council, PO Box 404, Te Kūiti 3941. No objection to the issue of a licence may be made in relation to a matter other than a matter specified in section 105(1) of the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act 2012. No objection to the renewal of a licence may be made in relation to a matter other than a matter specified in section 131 of the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act 2012. This is the second publication of this notice. This notice was first published on March 27, 2025

PREMIUM HOLDINGS LIMITED, private company, 728 State Highway 3, Hangatiki has made application to the District Licensing Committee at Te Kūiti for the renewal an on licence in respect of the premises situated at 728 State Highway 3, Hangatiki known as Caves Motor Inn.The general nature of the business conducted under the licence is that of a hotel.The days on which and the hours during which liquor is sold under the licence are; Monday to Sunday 9am to 2am the following day. (Good Friday, Easter Sunday, Christmas Day and up to 1pm ANZAC day for dining only and 24 hours/seven days for those living on the premises) The application may be inspected during ordinary office hours at the office of the District Licensing Committee at Waitomo District Council, Queen St, Te Kūiti. Any person who is entitled to object and wishes to object to the issue of the licence may, not later than 25 working days after the date of the publication of this notice, file a notice in writing of the objection with the Secretary of the District Licensing Committee at Waitomo District Council, PO Box 404, Te Kūiti 3941. No objection to the issue of a licence may be made in relation to a matter other than a matter specified in section 105(1) of the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act 2012. No objection to the issue of a licence may be made in relation to a matter other than a matter specified in section 131 of the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act 2012. This is the second publication of this notice. This notice was first published on March 27, 2025.

GLEN ALLAN HEKA, 714 Waitomo Village Road, Owner Operator, has made application to the District Licensing Committee at Waitomo District Council, Te Kūiti for the renewal of an off licence in respect of the premises situated at 9 WaitomoVillage Road, Waitomo known as The Tomo Bar & Eatery.The general nature of the business conducted (or to be conducted) under the licence is tavern. The days on which and the hours during which alcohol is (or is intended to be) sold under the licence are Monday-Sunday, 7am-10pm. The application may be inspected during ordinary office hours at the office of the Waitomo District Licensing Committee, Waitomo District Council, Queen St, Te Kūiti. Any person who is entitled to object and wishes to object to the issue of the licence may, not later than 25 working days after the date of the publication of this notice, file a notice in writing of the objection with the Secretary of the District Licensing Committee at Waitomo District Council, PO Box 404, Te Kūiti 3941. No objection to the issue of a licence may be made in relation to a matter other than a matter specified in section 105(1) of the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act 2012. No objection to the renewal of a licence may be made in relation to a matter other than a matter specified in section 131 of the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act 2012. This is the second publication of this notice. This notice was first published on March 27, 2025.

GLEN ALLAN HEKA, 714 Waitomo Village Road, Owner Operator, has made application to the District Licensing Committee at Waitomo District Council, Te Kūiti for the renewal of an on licence in respect of the premises situated at 29 Waitomo Village Rd, Waitomo known as The Tomo Bar & Eatery.The general nature of the business conducted (or to be conducted) under the licence is tavern. The days on which and the hours during which alcohol is (or is intended to be) sold under the licence are Monday-Sunday, 9am-2am. The application may be inspected during ordinary office hours at the office of the Waitomo District Licensing Committee, Waitomo District Council, Queen St, Te Kūiti. Any person who is entitled to object and wishes to object to the issue of the licence may, not later than 15 working days after the date of the publication of this notice, file a notice in writing of the objection with the Secretary of the District Licensing Committee at Waitomo District Council, PO Box 404, Te Kūiti 3941. No objection to the issue of a licence may be made in relation to a matter other than a matter specified in section 105(1) of the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act 2012. No objection to the renewal of a licence may be made in relation to a matter other than a matter specified in section 131 of the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act 2012. This is the second publication of this notice. This notice was first published on March 27, 2025.

ST LUKE’S MARKET DAY

Saturday, April 5 8am-12 noon Carpark 85 Esplanade, Te Kūiti

SCRAP GOLD WANTED

We buy your old worn out or broken gold jewellery. Bring in any earrings, chains, bangles, rings, watches or coins Turn it into $$ CASH

Conditions apply. Must have valid NZ passport or drivers licence. Items must be your own property

70 Maniapoto St, ŌTOROHANGA 07 873 7008 159 Rora St, TE KŪITI P 07 878 8913 www.dmjewellery.co.nz

Garage sale Saturday, April 5, 9am 6 South Street, Te Kūiti. Donation will be made to Hillview.

Grandparents raising grandchildren GRG Monthly meeting, April 9. 10am – 12pm Te Kūiti Community House 28 Taupiri Street, Te Kūiti. Naumai Haere mai Cuppa + chat guaranteed.

CITIZENS

BUREAU,

TK LYCEUM Groceries No 17 J Palmer; $50 note No 50 Irene. Drawn by TK Police. Thanks for great support.

Wanted Ph Deb 027 490 1007 or Shay 027 373 3732

Te Kuiti. Muster free entry grocery raffle won by H Ratima Paparahi.

EEKL SCHEDULE ON OUR EBSI E

St Bride's Anglican Church Haerehuka St Ōtorohanga

Sunday morning service 10am

Ph 07 873 7006

Te Waro Ngahere Trust AGM (Te Waro A)

Date:

AGENDA

• Karakia me nga mihimihi

• Apologies

• Proxies

• 2024 AGM Minutes

• Matters Arising

• Chairperson’s Report & Goals

• Financial Report

• General Business

• Karakia whakamutunga Tea / Coffee and light kai

All enquiries to 027 273 5769

Proxy Forms, if required email: tewarongaheretrust@gmail.com

Insulated, power, carpet, curtains, various sizes. Delivery fee special Ph/txt 027 458 2904 or Ph 07 847 3172 www.rooms2go.co.nz

CALF MILK WANTED

Bocock ’s Calf Rearing

Pete 027 433 1440 Mark 0274746917

FIREWOOD for Sale –Dry Pine 4 cubic metres, delivered King Country area. Ph 027 951 9855

Funeral Services

Funeral Services

Funeral Services

Funeral Services

Funeral Services

WOLVERS, Henderica

• Casket sprays

• Casket sprays

• Casket sprays

• Casket sprays

• Casket sprays

• Wreaths

• Wreaths

• Wreaths

• Wreaths

• Wreaths

• Arrangements

• Arrangements

• Arrangements

• Arrangements

• Arrangements

• Catering

• Catering

• Catering

• Catering

• Catering

96 Rora Street, Te Kūiti 07 878 8882 or 027 567 1930 bloomsandbrewsnz@gmail.com

96 Rora Street, Te Kūiti 07 878 8882 or 027 567 1930 bloomsandbrewsnz@gmail.com

96 Rora Street, Te Kūiti 07 878 8882 or 027 567 1930 bloomsandbrewsnz@gmail.com

96 Rora Street, Te Kūiti 07 878 8882 or 027 567 1930 bloomsandbrewsnz@gmail.com

96 Rora Street, Te Kūiti 07 878 8882 or 027 567 1930 bloomsandbrewsnz@gmail.com

ARIA MŌKAU CO-OPERATING PARISH

All Saints Piopio 22 Moa St Sunday 10am

St Peter’s By The Sea, 25 Aria Tce, Mōkau 1st and 3rd Sunday 2pm

Piopio contact: 07 877 8097

Mōkau contact: 06 752 9123

Harvest Church Ōtorohanga

Sunday Service @ 10.30am 5 Tuhoro Street, Ōtorohanga Ph 07 873 8890 Mob 027 493 0117 Email harvest.pc@xtra.co.nz ALL WELCOME. Pastors Peter & Carole Coventry (An Assemblies of God Church)

Johanna (Riki) – Passed away on the 29th March 2025, in her 92nd year surrounded by her family. Dearly loved wife of the late Hans Wolvers for 22 years, Michael Loughan for 21 years and friend to Hans Schitt. Mother to her sons & daughter in laws, Gerard & Denise, Adrian & Helen, Paul & Annette, and Hans & Linda. Oma to her grandchildren and great Oma to her great grandchildren.Step Mum to John (dec) Richard and Suize (dec), and their families.The service will be livestreamed, please email office@teawamutufunerals. co.nz for the link. A service for Riki will be held at St Bride’s Anglican Church, 54 Haerehuka Street, Ōtorohanga on Monday, 7th April at 11:00 am followed by private cremation. All communications to the Wolvers family, P O Box 137, Te Awamutu 3840. Te Awamutu Funeral Services, FDANZ

HETET, Edgar Steve Tiwini Poharama – 19/03/1922 – 21/03/2025. Passed away peacefully at home in Papamoa surrounded by his loving family at the age of 103. A tangi was held on Monday, March 24 & he is now at rest beside his beloved wife, Nita at the Te Kawaunui Urupa, Oparure. The whanau thanks everyone for their love & support. Please send all communications to John Hetet, 20 Farrar Street, Grey Lynn, Auckland1021.

in St David’s on Good Friday at 9.30am St David's Presbyterian Church Ranfurly St, Ōtorohanga

A newspaper is more than just news. It involves you in the community with personal stories, thoughts, viewpoints, humour and helpful tips. Your newspaper is a onestop source for analysis, opinion, great writing and personality. Nothing else is so focused on community. When buyers and sellers need to connect…

The author of this best selling book, ED DELPH will be speaking at Harvest Church Ōtorohanga Sunday, March 23 at 7pm and Friday, April 4 at 7pm