Kaipara Lifestyler, April 23rd 2024

Dargaville ratepayers find voice

Small communities succeed

Fees

Aero open day

Māori representation could go to poll

u by Andy Bryenton

Simeon Brown has communicated to councils nationwide that the fate of Māori wards should be in the hands of voters; for areas like Kaipara, where they are already in place, a ‘resolution to disestablish’ could happen well before election time.

‘The government will introduce a bill in the next few months to restore binding polls on the establishment of Māori wards (and constituencies),’ wrote Local Government Minister Simeon Brown in a letter to the Kaipara District Council.

‘From the next term of local government, the council will be able to initiate binding

polls on Māori wards. Electors will also be able to petition their council to hold a binding poll.

The policy settings for binding polls will be restored to as they were prior to 2021, including the five per cent threshold for petitions calling for a binding poll.’

The letter clarifies speculation on the

nature of coalition government moves to change Māori ward representation. Local Government New Zealand, the civic and district governance alliance which the KDC opted out of last year, has called the move an example of “overreach”, criticising its intent.

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Māori representation could go to poll

“Local community members deserve to have a say in their governance arrangements,” said Simeon Brown. “The coalition government’s view is that any decision to establish or disestablish a Māori ward is one that should remain with communities.”

However, a clause in the forthcoming bill is expressly mentioned in Mr Brown’s letter to councils, which would allow a simple vote by elected members to disestablish Māori wards without public consultation, in the same way that elected members vote on other governance issues. It would place the onus on five per cent of regional voters to demand a binding poll for their reinstatement.

Costs are associated with the disestablishment of the Māori ward. Such a move would trigger a representation review, which council CEO Jason Marris confirmed at last week’s briefing could cost $25,000, paid for by rates. A poll attached to the 2025 local body elections may be another option; this would cost less, at approximately $5,000.

“If the rationale is that it is to be disestablished as there was no poll to establish it, how is it justified that this council, sitting around this table come August, has the authority to disestablish a ward without holding a poll?” asked councillor Pera Paniora, Kaipara’s incumbent Māori ward elected member.

Earlier, councillor Paniora spoke on the Breakfast television news programme,

saying: “I don’t believe that the government does have a mandate to do [this]. This is being driven by one of the, ironically, minor parties of this threeheaded taniwha that’s come out of this coalition deal.”

The bill, which would empower local councils New Zealand-wide to vote to disestablish existing Māori wards, must first move through parliament. When the Kaipara Māori ward was established, a petition calling for a binding poll was gathered, but legislation passed by the then-incumbent Minister for Local Government Nanaia Mahuta quashed it. ¢

The concept of the newlyconvened Dargaville Ratepayers and Residents Association began amid debate about rates increases on social media, but quickly amassed a sizeable following. No less than 271 members pledged to join up within the first five days of the idea being floated, leading to a meeting last week to appoint a committee and officers.

We all felt really frustrated and agreed that it was important our voices be heard but it needed to be done in a way that held weight and would be inclusive of the community at large, said elected chair Rose Dixon.

“So we asked ourselves the question, what can we do to convey everyone’s concerns to the council in a way that will improve our chances of being heard and we all agreed then and there to start up a ratepayers association and basically be the council’s watchdog.”

A round-table discussion pinpointed some of these areas for improvement. They included concerns for the affordability of living for older citizens,

access to rates rebates, and a perceived wastefulness in council spending.

The Dargaville Ratepayers and Residents Association will seek to work with the KDC and open a dialogue on improving Dargaville. Initial plans include a presentation to elected members announcing the formation of the group, which looks set to speak for a large voting bloc.

Residents of Dargaville and its surrounds who are concerned about the direction of the town can join the group by searching ‘Dargaville Ratepayers Association’ on Facebook in the first instance. ¢

p Simeon Brown has clarified the content of a proposed bill regarding Māori wards, leading to widespread debate

p Delegates at the first meeting of the Dargaville Ratepayers and Residents Association, including incumbent councillor Ash Nayyar

Water restrictions end

SHANE CULLEN

u by Andy Bryenton

09 431 5773

The arrival of autumn rains has finally seen the Kaipara District Council relax level three water restrictions in place for Dargaville and Baylys Beach since summer.

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Mayor’s Message

Greetings,

I am writing this off the back of an engaging Dargaville business community event last week. My thanks to the DCDB for co-hosting this as part of our long term plan consultation. It was well attended by the Dargaville community and I enjoyed the interactions with plenty of questions and answers about our plans for the next three years. One thing is clear – there are many, many people who are passionate about this great district. I know that together we can make Kaipara the place to be.

The consultation period for the Long Term Plan opened earlier this month. The consultation document for the Long Term Plan 2024 – 2027 is out and outlines our proposed plans to recovery — a roadmap for Kaipara. The direction for the next three years affects all who live in this district, so now is the time to share your thoughts and speak up for Kaipara. I urge you, if you haven’t already, to read the consultation document. You can do this at our website (go to www.kaipara.govt.nz/ltp) or by picking up a physical copy from either of our offices or libraries across the district.

One of the topics we are asking for feedback on is whether or not Council should be funding a dedicated climate resilience programme. As a council we already follow strict legislation, and some of that legislation includes considering climate resilience in the work we undertake – for example with the roads we build, the infrastructure we implement (including stopbanks), the services we provide. We collect a targeted rate for the Raupo Drainage area, which funds things like the maintenance of drains and outlets by weed spraying and machine cleaning, and if necessary, replacing floodgates. Across the district, climate resilience is already considered as part of the

0800 727 059

council@kaipara.govt.nz

www.kaipara.govt.nz

development of the new District Plan and the revised engineering standards. This is just some of the work we already do, and irrespective of any dedicated climate resilience programme we will keep doing this. Last year, as a Council, we chose to pause the Ruawai Adaptive Pathways programme, the emissions accounting, and work on the climate smart policy. At the time we saved a good chunk of money. I believe as a responsible conscientious council, we should always be looking for savings like this. For the next three years, our preferred option is not to spend any ratepayer money on such a programme, which is why we have not included any funding for this in the draft budgets for 2024 – 2027. So, let us know what you think. There are three options for this topic. We have been all over the district this month, and there are still a few opportunities to talk to us during this LTP consultation period. Over the next week and a half, elected members and staff will be at drop-in sessions at the Dargaville Library and Mangawhai Museum, as well as online on 1 May. You can find details of the events online on the Long Term Plan webpage on our website.

This year, restrictions did not kick in until February, but lowering river levels triggered the official response across the west Kaipara area. Now, forecasts, rain and rising levels in the Kaihū River has combined to bolster council confidence.

“We want to thank the community for making an effort to conserve water through the restrictions,” says KDC infrastructure services general manager Anin Nama.

“We know it can be inconvenient, especially for businesses who rely on water in their operations. The water savings the community made meant there was enough water to go around, and we did not have to escalate to level four or five restrictions.”

supply, it’s good on the back pocket, too” says Anin.

Council staff ask residents to remain vigilant and keep up the good work with water conservation, as rain refills the natural resources of the northwest.

“By now, residents will have gained some good water-conserving habits and we encourage you to keep it up. Being water-wise is not only good for our water

After a delay caused by the promise and subsequent demise of Three Waters legislation, the Kaipara District Council’s extended plan for water restriction relief would appear to rest on the development of the KDC-owned Opanake Road dam in the west and a possible Pebblebrook Road dam to augment the stressed aquifer supplies of Mangawhai. ¢

An exhibition of artistic excellence

u by Andy Bryenton

The Kaipara Art Awards will return in 2024, once again seeking to showcase the talents of the district’s thriving artistic community across many media.

“We are very pleased to be able to co-host this prestigious event again after Cyclone Gabrielle and other unforeseen weather events disrupted Kaipara in 2023,” says the Dargaville Arts Association’s John Pickworth.

“The awards provide a supportive and encouraging forum where artists can ‘put themselves out there’, have their work judged independently and exhibit their work in a gallery,” says Mangawhai Artists chair Belinda Vernon.

“The Emerging Artist Award is always a sought-after opportunity for artists new to the art scene, or to a particular genre, to achieve recognition and to kickstart their art career or journey.”

This year, the long-established creative event will be hosted in Mangawhai, with the co-organisers once again engaging the expertise of a highly qualified adjudicator ahead of a gala opening night in October. The call is out, now, for artists to begin thinking about their entries for the awards.

“There are three broad categories for the awards: painting in two dimensions,

other media in two dimensions and three-dimensional sculpture,” says John. “This competition was founded to foster and acclaim Kaipara artistic excellence, and in keeping with the advancement of technology, we have also been specific in our opposition to AI ‘art’, which is not permitted.”

The wide scope of the three categories covered by the awards means that everything from welded steel to blown glass, pencil sketches to fired clay and traditional canvases have engaged the senses of both patrons and judges. ¢

Mayor Craig Jepson Kaipara District

p Geoff Ruthe, with 2022’s winning painting in the Kaipara Art Awards, Paradisus Terrestris

p Anin Nama has praised the water-saving efforts of west coast citizens as level three restrictions come to an end

Elected member cited in abuse claim

Small communities succeed

Roading provider the Northland Transportation Alliance (NTA) has raised concerns in its most recent report that road workers have been subject to verbal abuse by an elected member of the council. Waiotira Primary School and

The abuse from this individual and other citizens was vitriolic enough to cause contractor Ventia issues in staffing Cove Road repairs, suggests the report, which was presented at last week’s council briefing by the NTA’s Calvin Thomas.

‘Ventia has highlighted that, because of unacceptable public and elected member behaviour towards on-site crews that have compounded over the last several months, they encountered challenges resourcing a crew to complete the final works at Cove Road,’ stated page nine of the NTA’s report.

‘Despite customer frustrations, the abuse faced by roading crews across the country on a daily basis is not acceptable in any workplace, with none of the Ventia or KDC roading team setting out to deliver poor network outcomes.’

Councillor Howard enquired as to the nature of the incident.

“There was at least one occasion where Ventia crews were abused verbally by an elected member,” confirmed Mr Thomas.

“Are you specifically talking about me?” said councillor Howard. “I think we need to clear this up.”

However, before the identity of the elected member involved could be substantiated, Mayor Craig Jepson ruled that this was not a matter to be addressed in a public forum. As the accusation of verbal abuse had been escalated through the correct channels at the time of the incident, it was the mayor’s assertion that further conversation on the subject should happen in writing. Issues escalated in this manner become subject to internal council procedure. ¢

“I have been teaching at Waiotira on and off for the past decade and am teaching in the senior classroom. Two of my daughters have gone through the school, and I have my third girl there now,” said WPS teacher Lisa Hamilton.

“We had been working on designing an emblem and motto for our school. We do a lot of koha with our Whanaungatanga Friday programme, which inspired our mural idea.”

The programme begins after Friday’s morning tea. The students engage in art, cooking, the māra kai nui (garden) and creating koha gifts for the community. The theme for the Resene competition was sustainability.

“Many of the design elements were hand-drawn by our students. We came up with our motto Ko tātou tēina, this is us because everything in our design is what we are striving to do.”

The students will help paint the mural on a recently rebuilt wall at the school. Selwyn Park School was also a competition winner. Their mural will feature on the Kauri Coast Community Pools wall.

“We are delighted to be selected as one of the Wall Worthy winners. Micaela van den Berg will work with groups from the Dargaville community, including our school,” said principal Todd Warmington.

“Although this project has our name, it is certainly a whole community venture. It will be fantastic for our great little town.” ¢

u by Andy Bryenton u by Amy Fifita

p Road crews say they came under verbal abuse from an elected member of the KDC during recent repairs to Cove Road near Mangawhai

p Waiotira Primary School teacher Lisa Hamilton said they were showing the children that although they are a small community, they have opportunities to win competitions and can achieve anything

Open fire season announced

The end of the restricted fire season has come with the change to autumn, with the new open fire season taking effect from last Tuesday, April 16.

“Because of the changing conditions, the risk of fire danger has decreased,” said Fire and Emergency Te Tai Tokerau Northland district manager Wipari Henwood.

“We’re now turning our communities’ attention to the firesafe practices to be considered for winter.”

The open fire season means that a permit is no longer required to light a controlled outdoor fire for purposes such as green waste disposal or cooking. This latest announcement covers all of Kaipara but specifically leaves out areas in the Far North, such as Ahipara, the Te Aupouri and Karikari peninsulas. A fireworks ban, imposed for all of the Ripiro coast, including Glinks Gully and Baylys Beach, will remain in force until April 30.

means to put it out right there on hand is a wise idea.

Podiatrists establish new practice

Dargaville is gaining medical professionals after a long hiatus without certain important services, and the opening of the FootRest Podiatry Clinic signals the start of a new era.

Qualified and experienced podiatrist Winsome Dacres and her husband Wade Dacres have established a new practice in Hokianga Road, taking up rooms in what was once a dentist’s office. Podiatry is the area of medicine focussed on the feet, and Dargaville has needed such a specialist for some time.

“I have family here in New Zealand who encouraged us to come over,” says UK-born Winsome, who gained her qualifications at the Chelsea School of Chiropody in the 1980s.

Those planning a big burn or want to access the best advice on how to prepare for a safe outdoor fire should visit checkitsalright.nz. Firefighters advise that if you do plan to light a fire outdoors, even during open fire season, having the

Meanwhile, Dargaville firefighters are pleased to announce that donations from the community and local businesses have enabled them to expand their storage capacity and make the most of their station. A storage container has been secured to fit behind the firehouse, enabling the dry, safe, secure storage of items that the brigade does not need every day. ¢

“We initially lived and worked in Dunedin but then moved to Rotorua. We were looking for a town which was quiet and provided a good lifestyle, and that is how we discovered Dargaville.”

After six months of caring for rest home residents through a visiting practice, Winsome and Wade heard about the Cotton family’s plans to revitalise Dargaville’s old dentist’s rooms into a health hub.

“We had often travelled past the building and thought that it would be good to move in there,” says Winsome. Now, that dream has become a reality.

With dentists coming to share the large clinic very soon, the FootRest Podiatry Clinic team have made themselves at home and invite locals to stop in for a visit. Their message is that foot pain needs not be something to endure, and treatment could free you of discomfort. Everything from ‘gnarly nails’ to corns and aches, old injuries and even diabetic foot pain can be taken care of thanks to Winsome’s exceptional expertise in this specialised field. ¢

u by Andy Bryenton u by Andy Bryenton

p Dargaville chief fire officer Jason Campbell and stalwart community supporter Todd Skudder with a new storage container bought for the brigade with donations

p Wade and Winsome Dacres are open for appointments now, helping keep Dargaville locals on a good footing

Shutting down scammers

u by Andy Bryenton

Dargaville Grey Power hosted an informative clinic on scams and how to defeat them last week, keeping locals up to date with the latest tips and tricks to beat digital crooks.

Westpac bank manager Karla Scott came to offer her expertise to the symposium. She has seen first-hand how they operate and had good advice on how to beat them.

“The goal is to help you pick up on those scams and frauds which are affecting people, so you are armed with knowledge,” said Karla. “The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment reports that close to $200 million was lost to scammers last year alone.”

Some top tips: If someone calls you claiming to be from your bank, Internet service provider or phone company, tell them you are busy and then call back the firm’s official 0800 number. If it’s a real call, the company will have a record and you can pick up the conversation. If they never called you in the first place, it was a scam.

Another common source of scams comes through email. Offers of lottery winnings for foreign nations, mystery inheritances from unknown relatives, and even offers of very cheap products could be scams.

“Never open an email, which says something like ‘New Zealand Post has your package’, or ‘click here to reset your password’,” says Karla. “If something seems too good to be true on the Internet, it’s usually a scam.” Most of all, never give out your bank details or PIN number to anyone. Karla also urged older people to take special care when choosing who has enduring power of attorney over their finances, as exploitation of this responsibility appears to be on the rise. ¢

Fees and charges out for consultation

u by Andy Bryenton

The new schedule of Kaipara District Council fees and charges is out for public feedback at the same time as the council’s threeyear Long Term Plan.

Discussion around the council table, when fees were being struck for the 2024–2025 period, focussed on their affordability, with concerns from elected members that any price increases should not breach the already-high rate of national inflation.

“Staff are cognisant of the upcoming forecast financial downturn and people’s ability to pay for services. The review includes an inflation rate increase of 3.5% on most fees not set by statute,” said KDC quality assurance manager Joy Hewlett.

Consequently, price hikes amid the fees and charges for the coming year are small but numerous. In construction, small increases in RMA hearing costs, land use and subdivision consents, consent extensions, water connections and preapplication meetings add up. Efforts have been undertaken to keep each individual increase at that inflationary level. There are small rises to building consents, too.

As noted, however, the biggest cumulative costs could fall on irresponsible dog owners, with small but significant price hikes for impounding roaming dogs, the charge for animal compliance officers’

time, and big penalties in the hundreds of dollars for failure to keep a dog under control, fraudulent sale or transfer of a dangerous dog, and permitting a dangerous dog to go unmuzzled. Failure to comply with the Dog Control Act and keeping an unregistered dog carry fines of more than $300.

This all adds up to prohibitive penalties, as opposed to the fee for legitimate dog registration, which has only increased by $3 to $76. You can have your say on the proposed fees and charges by visiting kaipara.govt.nz/council/consultation-andpublic-notices. ¢

p Councillors advocated keeping any price rises in fees and charges at or below the rate of inflation; impounded dog owners may be hardest hit

p Westpac bank manager Karla Scott shares information on beating crooks and scammers

Battling for the prize Creating bonds with fun

Kirsten Rasmussen hosts her monthly Tea and Talk high tea at Maungatūroto’s Holy Trinity to encourage connections within the community.

“I moved here in 2020 and love the village feel. I am extroverted. When I lived in England, I organised a street party. I loved doing dinner parties and working with the elderly, so I am used to doing activities,” said Kirsten.

“People can feel isolated in a rural area, and I am trying to bring the community together so they can get to know each other.”

Kirsten said she tied the social group with the Maungatūroto Night Markets so people can do both in one trip.

“Having a theme is a good icebreaker to stimulate conversation. I love it when I stop and see people chatting to someone they don’t know.

“I am using the money to make a better atmosphere for us. I usually pay for the food myself and am saving the

$8 entry fee to reupholster the chairs and buy more user-friendly chairs for disabled people.”

The growing group welcomes men and women with a quiz and people working in pairs at the end. For more information, call Kirsten on 021 180 7321. The next event is on Saturday, May 4. ¢

The Fireco Kai Iwi Lakes Triathlon is on Saturday, April 27, at the Pine Beach Campground at 7.50am; this year, it has a twist to help encourage people into the sport.

The triathlon will feature three courses for children 4–15 years old and adults. This year, it will also feature the Battle of the North, a competition between clubs.

“The Battle of the North initiative came to us from Whangārei Triathlon Club’s Lee Geer, a well-known athlete and lakes local. The club hopes the idea will encourage more people to join the sport,” said Sport Northland event lead Tara Wilson.

Participants wanting to enter the new initiative need a club membership affiliated with Triathlon New Zealand and wear the uniform at the event. Athletes can register for this event as part of the registration process. The WTC is hosting the BOTN.

“We have clubs from Auckland and North Shore coming along. They will be battling to earn points to win the Kauri Shield,” said on-course coordinator Hayden Bell.

“The initiative is good for getting those who are motivated a little more motivated and drive participation in the sport. I also think it will be a good driver for domestic tourism for more people to come to the lakes and the Kaipara region.”

For more information, visit raceroster. com/events/2024/76722/fireco-kai-iwilakes-triathlon-2024.

“It is the only triathlon in Northland and a fun event. There is something to offer for beginners or elite athletes,” Tara said. ¢

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p The Fireco Kai Iwi Lakes Triathlon is the only event of its kind in Northland, and this year, it will have the inaugural Battle of the North competition

p Kirsten Rasmussen says she enjoys creating theme decorations and that it is her creative outlet

For town and charity

The community is invited to the Pink Ribbon Market Fundraiser at Te Arohanui Community Hall, 18 Victoria Street, Dargaville between 10am and 2pm on Saturday, May 25.

“I was born and bred in Dargaville. I love our close-knit community and find we are central to many places like the beach, Kai Iwi Lakes and Auckland. I am on my own journey at the moment, working towards a nursing degree,” said co-organiser Fiona Tohu.

“I am stepping out of my comfort zone, and doing the nursing degree has made me want to step out of my shell and do something good for people.”

Fiona is part of a local team organising the market. They are currently signing people up for stalls and collecting goods for a raffle hamper.

“I wanted smaller Dargaville businesses to have an opportunity to put themselves out there and give back to a good cause. I am also spreading awareness to encourage our young people in Dargaville to get breast screened.

“People are aware of the Breast Cancer Foundation New Zealand, but for many, until it happens to somebody that they know, people don’t take the cause seriously.”

The raffle ticket money, entry fees and baking stall profits will go to the foundation. The other business stalls keep their earnings from the day. Stalls pay $50 for a spot.

“There will be affordable items available, and we have a mixture of stalls from bakers to apparel suppliers and jewellery makers.” ¢

Pathways to home ownership

Pacific leaders gathered for the Dargaville Housing Project Talanoa last Friday with Tokotoko Solutions’ Isopo Samu to explore property-buying opportunities for their communities.

“I am where I am because I invested in property. I flipped houses and got ahead and we should start telling and helping people get into it,” said director Isopo Samu.

“I am doing this because it is needed. I am trying to target our most vulnerable communities — Māori and Pasifika. The sad thing that I see is that Māori are now tenants in their own land, and the research shows if you own property, you will be OK.”

Director Samu spoke about Habitat for Humanity’s rent-to-buy 10-year scheme and his programme that helps families save for a deposit for their first home. He had trialled his programme on two families and has seen it work.

“What we have put together looks at putting people in their own homes in 12 months. Many of our people are renting at the moment, and my idea is to get people into purchasing their own homes to start their journey. We are so focussed on

building houses, but we are not building homes, and there is a massive difference between the two.”

The programme trial had two families being able to buy their own homes within 11 to 16 months. Mr Samu will be holding workshops later this year.

“The problem is not supply and demand, it is affordability. I am aiming to help people get their first home deposit.” ¢

p Fiona Tohu is organising the Pink Ribbon Market Fundraiser as a way to encourage local businesses and give to a worthwhile cause

p Dargaville’s Pasifika community was represented at the Housing Project Talanoa to talk with Isopo Samu (back middle) about how their people could buy their first homes

Kaipara Kōrero

We are calling for your feedback to help us build our Long Term Plan for the next three years.

You can read the consultation document online now at kaipara.govt.nz/ltp or drop in to either of the council offices or any library across the district.

Kōrero mai, talk to us!

Kaipara District Council elected members and staff have been out and about across the district during the consultation period and there are still some engagements that you can head along to. You can talk to us and also submit your feedback at these events.

In person events

Mangawhai Museum drop in session

Molesworth Drive, Mangawhai

Mangawhai Museum drop in session

Molesworth Drive, Mangawhai

Dargaville Library drop in session

71 Normanby Street, Dargaville Date

Tuesday 23 April from 2.00pm - 3.00pm

26 April from 11.00am - 12.00pm

29 April from 10.00am - 11.00am

Water restrictions lifted

Water restrictions have lifted for properties on town supply in Dargaville and Baylys Beach. Although restrictions have lifted, it is important to still conserve water where possible. For water saving tips and the latest updates on water restrictions, head to bewaterwise.org.nz

Community Grants close 1 May

Calling community organisations in Kaipara! Are you looking for funding for events, services or activities, operational costs or capital projects? Our Community Grant is open for applications.

Find out more and apply at kaipara.govt.nz/funding Applications close Wednesday 1 May at 4.30pm.

Reminder fees and charges consultation

Kaipara District Council is asking the community for feedback on proposed fees and charges for the coming 2024/2025 year.

You can read the full Fees and Charges Statement of Proposal which highlights the changes and make a submission before Thursday 9 May at kaipara.govt.nz/have-your-say

Fees and charges are used to support the operation and maintenance of a variety of services provided to the community. They are set on a user-pays basis to ensure that rate increases are kept to a minimum where possible.

Council offices closed ANZAC Day

Council offices will be closed this Thursday 25 April for ANZAC Day. If you have an urgent enquiry, please contact our afterhours services on 0800 727 059 (available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week).

No Kaipara Refuse services on ANZAC Day

There will be no Kaipara Refuse services running this Thursday 25 April and the Dargaville Resource & Recovery Park will be closed.

All kerbside runs for Thursday will instead be done on Friday 26 April. This will affect collections for Ruawai, Mangawhare and Tangiteroria. All collections for Friday will remain the same.

Hakaru Transfer Station, which is run by Northland Waste, is open on Thursday 25 April from 1-4pm.

Mangawhai Community Park consultation closing soon

You have until Monday 6 May to tell us what you think of the draft Mangawhai Community Park Master Plan.

The Master Plan will direct how the park will be managed and developed going forward.  This includes setting a vision for the park and what activities would be appropriate there.

Find out more and share your feedback at: kaipara.govt.nz/mangawhaicommunitypark

Library roof replacement postponed

Replacement of the Dargaville Library roof has been postponed to early May. We’ll share new dates for this work via Antenno and Kaipara Libraries – Dargaville Facebook page once available.

Upcoming Council meetings

• Taharoa Domain Governance Committee, 10.00am Tue 23 April, Lighthouse Function Centre, 32 Mount Wesley Coast Road, Dargaville. Please note: this reconvenes the 12 March 2024 meeting.

• Council Meeting, Wed 24 April, Mangawhai Conference Room, 1c Molesworth Drive, Mangawhai and on YouTube

• Council Briefing, 9.30am Wed 1 May, venue to be confirmed, and on YouTube

• Raupo Drainage Committee, 10.00am Thur 2 May, Ruawai Tokatoka War Memorial Hall, 25 Ruawai Wharf Road, Ruawai

Please visit Council’s website for the most up-to-date information or call Council on 0800 727 059 and ask to speak to a Governance Advisor.

First-season victories and challenges

u by Andy Bryenton

Maungatūroto racing driver Ben Morrison has put in a gruelling but rewarding debut season in the big leagues of his chosen sport, scoring podium finishes against some of the best veteran racers in the midget car series.

“It’s been very challenging, but you need that challenge to make it interesting,” says Ben, which may be understating the stature of his achievement.

A respectable first season would include middle-of-the-pack finishes on tracks nationwide, but Ben managed to rack up two podium finishes, including one at Auckland’s Waikaraka Park. Ben also managed to post the fastest time in qualifying at Baypark Speedway in the Bay of Plenty, considered to be the fastest track on the Kiwi circuit. This would be a great achievement in any racer’s season, but for a first-time driver facing international stars of the sport, it is a noteworthy feat.

“In this kind of racing, a crash isn’t a matter of if — it’s a matter of when,” says Ben.

Fun night raises funds

u by Amy Fifita

The recent Matakohe Community Group Markets and Movies fundraising event was a success with the team raising more than $500 to fix the local tennis courts fences.

“My family has lived in Matakohe for generations, so I grew up here. After living away from home since being in university, I recently moved back to the area with my own family. It was my first time personally organising an event like this one,” said coorganiser Kate Tutua.

“There are a couple of racers who are at the very top of the midget cars, and we also had international drivers from the US competing. Those are guys who I look up to,” said Ben.

Even a major crash did not slow his season down.

When he touched wheels with one of the top-flight US contenders in a tussle for a podium spot, both cars were wrecked. Ben speaks of the incident calmly, but it was enough to bend the tough steel frame of his car out of shape. What followed was two days of intensive repair work, with Ben and his team working until 4am right after the crash, then from 6am the next day through until 2am, ahead of a race the day after. ¢

SPEAK for Kaipara

Kōrerorero mō Kaipara Kaip

Kate said the MCG is repairing the old and damaged fences to make it safer for those who use the courts for tennis and basketball. Before the event, local working bee volunteers had tidied up overgrown plants that had grown through the fences.

“Matakohe is fantastic when it comes to supporting each other, and there is always a neighbour willing to lend a hand. It was great to see community members and families from surrounding towns braving the weather to enjoy a night out to support the fundraising efforts.”

The group is holding another fundraiser to go towards the tennis court fence repairs. Ruawai Lions Club donated a two-metre load of firewood, which will be raffled at $5 a ticket.

“We were kindly offered the opportunity to raffle some firewood donated to go towards our fundraising efforts. Tickets can be purchased by texting 027 324 5205. We would like to thank everyone who helped with the markets and movie and are grateful to Gilmours and Fonterra for sponsoring the event.” ¢

How should we charge for the maintenance and operation of our parks and libraries across the district?

We’re asking for feedback on whether we should change the way we rate for our parks and libraries across the district Currently, the cost to look after all of the district’s parks and libraries is shared across the district and paid for through general rates Because the general rates portion of our rates invoice is based on land value, this means that those with higher land value, like farms or large lifestyle properties, contribute more to maintain and operate parks and libraries than those (predominantly) residential properties with lower land value For example, some rural properties may pay over $700, compared with some residential properties, that may pay less than $50

We want to hear from the community if there’s appetite to change the way we rate, so that properties that are closer to facilities, and that are not commercial or industrial, pay more of the costs associated with maintaining and operating our parks and libraries

We’ve offered two options in the consultation document that we are asking for feedback on

The first option is a differential targeted rate where properties will be charged one of two fixed amounts

Properties that are within the defined roll areas for Dargaville, Mangawhai, Maungaturoto, Paparoa and Kaiwaka (excluding commercial and industrial properties) will be charged 60% of the budget - approximately $415 00 (2024/2025)

All other properties across the district, including commercial and industrial properties within the identified roll areas, will be rated for 40% of the budget for parks and libraries – approximately $168 00 (2024/2025)

Every property charged a Uniform Annual General Charge (UAGC) would be levied the new targeted rate

The second option is to remain as we are – status quo. This is continuing to pay for the operation and maintenance of parks and libraries through the general rate.

What do you think? Perhaps you have other ideas Remember that the cost of the maintaining and operating the parks and libraries remains the same – it is the way we allocate payment for it that is proposed to change Speak up for Kaipara and let us know

The budget for the operation and maintenance of parks and libraries across the district is $12 million across the three years – approximately $10 million for parks and $2 million for libraries

You can go online and submit your feedback now, or pop into either of our offices or libraries across the district to pick up a physical submission form. www.kaipara.govt.nz/ltp

p Ben Morrison has stormed into the big leagues of midget car racing, thanking his local supporters First National Real Estate Maungatūroto

p Ollie and Maddox Webber said they enjoyed getting their faces painted by Millies Many Faces at the Matakohe Markets and Movies

What’s in a name?

u by Andy Bryenton

Most locals know about Joseph Dargaville, and how he became the only town founder in New Zealand to name a locality after himself, but what about other place names within his municipality?

Tirarau Street is named for an influential Māori statesman and leader from the 19th century, Te Tirarau Kūkupa. His status in the mid-north was such that he was one of the original signatories of the Declaration of Independence of New Zealand when James Busby conceived the idea of that document in 1835.

He was known as a vehement defender of his people’s sacred places but also supported his wife becoming a Christian, and, in later life, he extensively adopted European farming practices. He is remembered as a forceful leader who navigated a time of great change honourably.

Te Tirarau famously met with Bishop George Selwyn, the person whom Selwyn Park is named for. The first Bishop of New Zealand, George Selwyn, was a vigorous and athletic man rather than a clerical scholar. He was one of the competitors in the firstever Oxford and Cambridge rowing race and travelled extensively around his diocese when he reached New Zealand.

Bishop Selwyn taught himself te reo Māori on the voyage from England and also learned so much helping the captain and sailors that he was later able to command his own vessel.

Another important historical figure with a road named after them in Dargaville is Parore Te Āwha, also a signatory to the Declaration of Independence of New Zealand. His reputation for convincing oratory and skilled negotiation was lifelong and culminated in his funding of a petition to Queen Victoria, calling for a royal commission of investigation into breaches of Te Tiriti. While the Queen rejected his calls for the foundation of a parallel Māori parliament, his vision for harmony through diplomacy and discussion was visionary.

Ranfurly Street, just around the corner, is named for one of Queen Victoria’s trusted servants, who served as Governor-General in the last days of her reign. Sir Uchter John Mark Knox Ranfurly may be best remembered for gifting a shield as a prize for provincial rugby, but his larger legacy was his work establishing the St John ambulance service.

Another local legend associated with sports is Alfred Ernest Harding, for whom Harding Park is named. He also dedicated a shield to rugby competition, after a very long career on the field and as a celebrated cricketer. Alfred Harding helped build up the local Rotarians, the hospital board, the dairy co-operative and the school committee, combining his business acumen with philanthropism well into his 80s. ¢

•

p Bishop Selwyn lends his name to Dargaville’s skatepark, and a look at his history shows that the adventurous cleric would probably have given skateboarding a try

Gear up for the call of the wild

u by Andy Bryenton

Duck calls will ring out across the wetlands at dawn on May 4 as 2024’s waterfowl season gets underway. Of course, that means preparations will reach their highest pitch in the weeks just beforehand, with hunters checking and double-checking their equipment before the big day. Each year, the technology available to trick the wily waterfowl with better decoys and make the crisp autumn mornings a little more comfortable and successful advances. That’s why a trip to your local sporting and outdoors specialist is a good idea in the leadup to opening day.

Each year, Dargaville’s Hunting and Fishing store hosts a night for duck hunters to get them into the spirit of the season and showcase some of what’s new. This year will be no exception, with the invitation out to locals to gather on Wednesday, May 1, for a bit of fun and some sage advice from those in the know.

Hunting and Fishing owner Jason Campbell takes pride in hosting these annual events, and this year, he’s ensured that there are not just plenty of prizes on offer and competitions to add a bit of spice. There will also be guest speakers sharing tips and techniques. Some of this comes down to those aforementioned

decoys. Those casually observing the range will note the lengths decoy makers go to, with animatronics, textured surfaces and immaculate paint, imitating waterfowl to the point where they look almost good enough to eat. That’s because the humble duck possesses eyes with two and a half times the resolution of a human, which can see three times further on average, and can also peek into the ultraviolet and infrared spectrum.

That makes the prize for the bestdressed hunter a little more important; all that cunning camo serves a serious purpose with the pattern recognition and visual abilities of the ducks in mind. Then there’s the science of duck calling, also the focus of a competition. Ducks don’t just quack. They make a broad range of sounds, some indicating good food nearby, others welcoming flying ducks to land, and yet more warning of danger or calling for a mate.

p Duck season awaits, and there’s fun, prizes and good advice on offer at Hunting and Fishing’s preseason duck night

With licences secured, firearms checked, top spots staked out, and decoys and

camouflage ready to go, a promising 2024 season awaits. Head along to Hunting and Fishing Dargaville at 6.30pm on May

1 to start it off the right way and ensure a successful, safe and satisfying time in the field. ¢

Forged in the deep Sahara

The old adage in racing was ‘win on Sunday, sales on Monday’, but how does that translate to building brand prestige off the tarmac, in the more gruelling world of ATVs?

CFMoto would be quick to answer after its impressive performance at this year’s Dakar Rally, one of the most brutal racing events on the planet. The factory team from CFMoto managed to place fifth in this massive trek through the Sahara Desert to the coast; no mean feat in a race where many people never finish. A single breakdown can spell disaster, and previous top placegetters are the likes of Porsche and Land Rover. The ATV class is relatively new.

Rider Antanas Kanopkinas’s stamina was tested over 15 days in the roughest terrain the desert could provide, and his CForce 1000 displayed similar fortitude. Amazingly, in a race that devours the inexperienced, Mr Kanopkinas and the CFMoto team were first-time entrants. The question that hung over the whole endeavour was whether a Chinese ATV could make it in a race that has wrecked the best of the USA and Japan in the past. It could, and that’s good news for Kiwi farmers, adventure riders and hunters looking for a very capable machine. Autumn means duck season, muddy trails and tough tasks on the farm, all scenarios where a big, capable ATV is a real asset. While you can’t buy a Formula

One-winning McLaren tomorrow or even one of the monster Camaros and Mustangs that race at Bathurst, you can walk into a CFMoto showroom and take home the ATV that smashed the Dakar in 113 hours flat. Admittedly, Antanas made a few modifications, but surprisingly few.

The CForce 1000 Overland packs a 75-horsepower fuelinjected v-twin engine that also develops 79 Newtonmetres of torque, liquid-cooled as one would expect from a desert-conquering design. It delivers power to the ground with an ultra-durable CVT transmission, selectable two and four-wheel-drive, frontlocking diff and a rear limited slip system to stay stable and planted.

All this is armoured with an eightmillimetre full-length skid plate set-up and 38mm steel tube bars, defending the lights and grille from sticks, stones and other obstacles. There’s a powerful winch to get you or fellow riders out of trouble,

more contact thanks to a sturdy beadlock, and plenty of towing and carrying capacity for any rural jobs you might load up to accomplish.

Perhaps the best part of investing in this race-winning formula is the cost. While taking home a world rally championshipwinning car or the bike which impressed at the Isle of Man TT could prove expensive, nobody will question the value and practicality of putting the CForce 1000 into your garage. ¢

p CFMoto’s CForce 1000 conquered the Dakar Rally with an impressive fifth place on its first trip to the Sahara 27-inch Stag tyres that can be deflated for

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April

Inland Revenue Clinic, Heartland Services –Dargaville — 24th April. Appointments to discuss any IRD enquiries in person at Whanau Focus Centre, 61 Victoria St, Dargaville. Bookings essential by calling 09 439 7009.

Free Three Day Musical Theatre Workshop with Luke Di Somma — 24–26 April 10am to 4pm at Dargaville High School, 57 Plunket Street. Designed for actors, singers, writers & composers aged 16+. To register email temanuttnz@gmail.com.

Fireco Kai Iwi Lakes Triathlon — 27 April. Triathlon (Swim+Bike+Run): Try a Tri: 100m+10K+2K. Short: 350m+10K+3.5K. Long: 700m (or 1500m kayak) + 20K + 8.5K. Kids Tri (Swim+Bike+Run): 4–6 yrs: 50m+2K+500m. 6–10 yrs: 100m+4K+1.5K. 11–15 yrs: 150m+8K+1.5K. For more info www. runningcalendar.co.nz/event/kai-iwi-lakes-triathlon.

May

The Grant Haua Xplosion — 4th May at the Central Hotel 3–7pm, $10 entry. Smoke & Daggers meals available.

Pae Manawa – Maori Land Court – Heartland Services — 6 May, free to discuss any enquiries regarding your land, in person at Whanau Focus Centre, 61 Victoria Street, Dargaville. Bookings essential on 09 439 7009 or 021 245 3765.

Free Property Information Seminar — 15th May at 5pm. “What To Look For (& What to Avoid) when Buying a Property to Flip”. RSVP email attendee names & session #7 to kathy@fnkaipara.co.nz.

155 Community Law – Heartland Services — 15 May, free help with family, employment, criminal, tenancy and consumer law, neighbourly disputes, debts or harassment and bullying at Whanau Focus Centre, 61 Victoria Street, Dargaville. Walk in only 10–3pm. Any enquiries 09 439 7009 or 021 245 3765. Disability Transition Expo for young disabled people and their families — 16th May 11.40am to 1.40pm at Dargaville High School, 57 Plunket Street. Learn about passions, interests & activities, residential & community support, tertiary & employment pathways and funding streams & financial support.

Free Property Information Seminar — 21 May at 5pm, “The Do-Up Dos & Don’ts To Attract Great Tenants”. RSVP email attendee names & session #8 to kathy@fnkaipara.co.nz.

Inland Revenue Clinic – Heartland Services — 30 May, free to discuss any IRD enquiries in person at Whanau Focus Centre, 61 Victoria Street, Dargaville. Bookings essential on 09 439 7009 or 021 245 3765.

Markets

Kaihu Hall Market — 3rd Saturday each month 10am–noon. Phone Robin 09 439 4878.

Maungaturoto Night Market — 1st Saturday of every month, 4–7pm, at The Epicentre, 98 Hurndall Street. 021 0234 3632 kierenwilson22@gmail.com or Facebook.

Monthly Market — 1st Saturday of each month, 8am–noon at the Kaipara Community Centre, Hokianga Road (opposite the Town Hall).

Paparoa Artisan Market — now quarterly 10am–2pm Paparoa Memorial Hall, next market is Sunday 2nd June.

Paparoa Farmers’ Market — Every Saturday 9am –12pm. Genuine local produce, vegetables, seafood, olive oils, meats, patisserie, plants and more. Village green, Paparoa.

Te Kopuru Market — 2nd Saturday of each month, 8am–12pm at Coronation Hall. Stall holders ring Rachel on 021 133 7560.

Clubs/Organisations

57 Squadron (Dargaville) Air Training Corps — Mondays 6pm–8pm at the Dargaville Aero Club. For boys and girls aged 13–18 years Phone Gordon 021 262 0547.

Alcoholics Anonymous — Dargaville AA meetings held at The Lighthouse Church, cnr Normanby & Parore Sts. Use Parore St entrance. Monday 4.30pm & Thursday 7.30pm Contact Bernie 027 212 2148, Ladies 020 4082 1373, Murray 09 439 5248.

Alzheimer’s ‘Carer’ Support Group — Contact Maxine on 022 691 6068.

Anger Management Group — Thursdays 6pm–7.30pm 1/12 Kapia Street, Dargaville. Helena 021 564 618 or 09 601 4153.

Baylys & Beyond Gardeners — All welcome, 2nd Monday of each month, Garden ramble, shared lunch, trading table phone 021 063 3444.

Blind Low Vision Support Group — Meets 10am, last Monday of the month, alternatively at Dargaville and Ruawai. Phone Noelene 09 439 0033 for more info.

Citizens Advice Bureau — Dargaville & districts have moved to Parenga Street as at 24th October 2023 (between the Menz Shed and My Accountants).

Dargaville Aero Club — Learn to fly, free of tuition charges, Gyrocopter, Texan, Stork. Contact Peter 022 025 0235 for further info.

Dargaville Bowling Club Tuesday Bowls — Names by 9.30am, start 10am, finish 2.30pm. Contact Ray King 09 439 5509.

Dargaville Contact Bridge Club — Tuesdays 12.45pm and Wednesdays 6.45pm at the Kiosk, Memorial Park, Logan St, Dargaville. dargavillebridge@gmail.com or phone Peter 09 439 2437 or 022 405 6439.

Dargaville Floral Art Club — Meets on the 3rd Wednesday of the month at 1pm at The Lighthouse Church, Cnr Normanby & Parore Sts, Dargaville. Enquiries to Dawn Donald 09 439 5413.

Dargaville Friendship Club for seniors — meets 2nd Tuesday of month at 10am at the Kiosk, Memorial Park, Logan Street. For info phone Brian 09 439 5959.

Dargaville Tabletop Wargames and RPGs – the Warrior’s Lodge — Interested in games like Dungeons & Dragons, Warhammer, or other strategy games with models? Thursdays 6.30pm, upstairs, Hokianga Road above the cinema. Learn to 3D print, paint, play and design.

Dargaville Girls Brigade — For girls 5–15 years. Thursdays after school — 3.30–5pm held at The Lighthouse Church. Contact Pauline Taylor 021 263 7446 or 09 439 7505.

Dargaville Mainly Music — Interactive music and movement for preschoolers and their carers. Wednesdays 10am Baptist church, Victoria St, during term time. Contact Rebecca 021 969 626.

Dargaville Menz Shed — is open Tuesday and Thursday each week from 10am to 3pm and Saturday mornings from 10am to noon. New members are welcome. For more info phone Paul 027 459 3098 or Brian 09 439 6175.

Dargaville Museum — Open every day except Christmas Day and Anzac morning. Hours 9am–4pm April to October, 9am–5pm October to April. Volunteers, visitor hosts and members welcome. Phone 09 439 7555.

Dargaville Riverside Taha Awa Garden Trust — is inviting people interested in joining them in overseeing the running of the Garden, contact Sheena, 021 439 157 or email dargavilleriversidegarden@gmail.com.

Dargaville Scout Group — For boys and girls aged 5–99 years at 23 Onslow St. All info on door or phone Johnnita 027 296 5889.

Dargaville Women’s Group — If you would like to socialise and share & care, feel welcome to come along and join our group of Ladies. We meet on the 3rd Tuesday of the month at 10am for morning tea (& maybe, a guest speaker) at The Methodist Church, Cnr Awakino & Normanby Roads, Dargaville. For further information contact Michelle, 09 439 2930.

Housie — Every third Monday of the month at 1.30pm, Dargaville Bowling Club. All are welcome. Starts, Monday 19th February.

Hikuwai O Kaipara Waka Ama Club — Meet at the NW Boating Club 5pm Mondays and Thursdays from 5pm for Awa training.

Justices of the Peace — available every Thursday from 12–1pm at the Whanau Focus offices, 61 Victoria Street, Dargaville.

Kaihu Valley Music Club — 3rd Sunday of the Month at Kaihu Hall on Woods Road. 1pm–4pm. Enquires to John or May 09 439 0827.

Kaipara Cycling — Calendar of Rides — Thursdays 3.15pm–5.15pm Junior Rides 10 years and older; 5.30pm–7pm Women’s Rides; 5.30pm–7pm Adult Rides. Meet at Time To, Normanby Street. If you are riding the Kauri Coast Mountain Bike Park or you want to join the Kaipara Cycling Club go to join.hivepass. co.nz or email kaiparacycling@gmail.com.

Kaipara Grey Power — third Friday of each month February to November. Our meetings are open to all. Contacts 09 439 7801 or 09 439 4452.

Kaipara Heritage Machinery Club — Open and operating Wednesday and Saturday. New members and volunteers welcome. Something to interest both men and women, come and get involved. Phone 021 106 3635 or 09 439 4614.

Kumarani Creative Centre – Creative Dance! — 5pm Thursdays, 15 Onslow Street. For all ages and abilities, fun and inclusive. Koha.

Kumarani Productions — Tuesdays Circus Kids 5–10 years at 3.45pm–4.45pm, Youth Circus 10–18 years at 5pm–6.30pm and Dargaville Fire and Circus Jam 6.30pm–8pm. 15 Onslow St. Through school terms only. Koha.

Line dancing group for beginners — every Monday night 5.30pm–7.30pm at Dargaville Dalmation Hall. Contact Donna 021 729 955.

Lions Club of Ruawai — Meets 3rd Thursday of the month (social night) and 1st Thursday of the month (business meeting). For more info contact Dorothy on 09 439 2557.

Lions Dargaville — Meeting 2nd Wednesday of the month in Lions Den, Hokianga Road. Contact John for more information 09 439 5937.

Maungaturoto AA Meeting — Mondays 7pm at the Holy Trinity Church, 134 Hurndall St East, Maungaturoto. Contact Carolyn 021 828 055.

Mt Wesley Angels — Meets 2nd Sunday of the month at Old Mt Wesley Cemetery to preserve, record and care for this historic cemetery. Wear suitable footwear, bring water, gardening gloves and a friend.

Northern Wairoa Country Music Club — 1st Sunday of the month at the Scout Hall, 23 Onslow Street 1–4pm. Enquiries to Bruce 09 439 5513.

Northern Wairoa Genealogy Society — Learn how to trace your family history or understand DNA at the Research Rooms, Dargaville Museum, 4th Sunday of each month, 12.30–2pm. Phone Sue 021 608 606.

Northern Wairoa Indoor Bowls Assn — Starts at 7pm Mondays at Anglican Church Hall, Tuesdays at Ruawai-Tokatoka Hall, Wednesdays at Dalmatian Hall. For more info contact Warren Younger 027 478 5102 or evenings 09 439 6155.

NZ 60s Up Movement — Dargaville Social Meetings held at the Lighthouse Function Centre on 1st Tuesday of the month. Contact President Margaret Pinny 09 439 4560.

Paparoa Box Fit — $10. Stretching/cardio/boxing. Paparoa Memorial Hall, every Wednesday 6–7pm.

Paparoa Dance to Music — $5. Stretching/balance/ resistance bands/Zumba, Paparoa Memorial Hall, every Tuesday 10.30–11.30am.

Peggy Purls in our Community — Every 3rd Wednesday 10.30am at Dargaville Sewing and Curtain Centre, 59 Normanby St. Ring Charlene 09 439 6120.

Petanque — social play. Mondays 9.15 till 11.30, $2, fun exercise, beginners welcome, all equipment supplied at Sportsville. Judy 09 439 7920.

Pono Lodge Yoga — Tuesday 9.30am. Hatha Yoga with Anisha. Class lasts approx 1 hour. Mats, bolsters and blocks available, $20. Contact Anisha 021 301 860 or see our Facebook page.

Recovery Support Group — Mondays 6.30pm– 9pm. 1/12 Kapia Street, Dargaville. Chrissy 09 601 4153 or 021 564 618.

Rotary Club of Dargaville — meet weekly at 11.30–1pm at the Lions Centre in Hokianga Road. New members always welcome, men and women. If you want to join a Service Club with nearly 85 years to Dargaville. Phone Brian 09 439 6175.

RSA Women’s Section — Social meeting held at the Clubrooms, 4th Monday of the month with guest speakers and afternoon tea. Contact President Noeline Wright 027 733 7396.

Ruawai Bowling Club — new members welcome at our friendly club in the heart of Ruawai. For info call Alison 027 243 5454.

Ruawai Gardening Club — Meetings or other activities held on 3rd Thursday of every month, Feb to Nov at the Ruawai Bowling Club, 10am start. New members welcome. Phone Merele 09 439 2335.

Stepping Out Leisure Marching Team — Tuesday 4pm–5pm at the Yugoslav Hall, 20 Normanby St. Contact Sharon 027 439 5634 or 09 439 5634 for more details.

Stitches and Crafts — 31 Logan St, Dargaville. 10.30am–4pm, Tuesday and Friday. Contact Edith & Mike 021 439 675.

Strength & Conditioning — Baylys Beach Community Centre, Mondays and Fridays. Small class groups. 9am–10am, $10 per session. If you’re 50+ and want to improve your movement as you age, this is the class for you. With some commitment you can gain strength as you condition your body for aging. Call Tony 022 311 8447.

Te Kopuru Community Library — access through St Peters Hall. Open Wed 10am–noon and Sunday 3pm–4pm. Books for all ages, and jigsaw puzzles, DVDs, CDs and magazines available. All welcome.

Te Kopuru Sewing & Craft Group — meets at Coronation Hall, Norton Street, Te Kopuru every Saturday from 9am-Noon. Gold coin koha for the hall. Tea & coffee provided. Contact Grace on 021 0858 2455.

Tinopai Craft Group — If you are crafty, or just feel like catching up with people in the neighbourhood, come and join us on Mondays from 10.30–1pm at the Tinopai Community Hall. For information phone Linda 09 280 9988.

Wednesday Crafts — Every Wednesday 10am. Morning tea and lunch will be served. Variety of crafts. The Kiosk at Memorial Park. All welcome. $10 per session. Contact Judy 027 316 3940.

TUE

TE KOROWAI O IHU KARAITI MINISTRIES at the Church of the Nazarene, 4 Grey Street, Dargaville. Church service Sundays at 10.30am. Weekly except for school holidays: Maranga Mai, Wednesdays at 10.30am. Legacy/Man Up, Wednesdays from 6.30pm–8.30pm. Contact 021 136 5253 or tekorowai.ihu@gmail.com. Celebrate Recovery, Thursdays 6pm–8.30pm. Contact Gwen on 021 103 9065.

NURSERIES & PLANTS

FENCING

FENCING, ALL types of fencing, pool, stockyards, post & rail, boundary plus... call Jeff 027 476 5458.

GRAZING

GRAZING AVAILABLE R1 to R2 dairy heifers, from 1st May long term, 20+ years experience with great results. Phone 021 439 250.

GRAZING FOR approx 60 cows at $12 per head. Phone 027 289 0937.

AUTUMN PLANTING 5,000+ hedging, shelter and landscaping trees from $1–$8. White & red bottlebrush. Tenex flax from $1–$4, pittosporum karo $1–$4, pittosporum tenuifolium $1–$4 and many more. Got2Go Plants is open Tuesday–Sunday. 55 West Coast Road, Te Kopuru. EFTPOS is now available. Internet transfers or cash. 09 439 5556 /027 488 3400.

PINEAPPLE PLANTS $15, Bananas Plants, $10 and Feijoa Plants $8. Got2Go Plants is open Tuesday–Sunday. 55 West Coast Road, Te Kopuru. EFTPOS is now available. Internet transfers or cash. 09 439 5556 /027 488 3400.

ACOUSTIC MUSIC Blackboard Concert — First Thursday of the month — 7–9.30pm, next is the 2 May 2024, Kaipara Community Centre, Hokianga Road, Dargaville. $2 entry, $2 raffle. Performers and audience welcome. Phone Allan 09 439 6933 or 021 439 697. An enjoyable night to be part of, sit back and be entertained by some great local talent.

ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS

•

• No experience necessary - really!

• We would prefer

We wish to invite parents/caregivers/ whanau to our Academic Coaching interviews on Thursday 9th and Friday 10th May. You can book your appointments online at www.schoolinterviews.co.nz/code/xgbc2 Attend your interview and be in with a chance to win a $100 gift card.

Alternatively, you may contact the school office 09 439 7229, office@darghigh.school.nz

Please be aware DHS will be closed for instruction on Thursday 9th and Friday 10th May in order for these interviews to take place. We look forward to seeing you!

AGM 21 May 2024 @ 7.00pm

It’s that time of year again for the Maungaturoto Recreational Society Incorporated to hold their Annual General Meeting. This is a great opportunity for members old and new to get involved, put forward suggestions, have a say on future direction and even join the committee! All members are encouraged to attend and we would love to see you all there.

AGM

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

MAUNGATUROTO COUNTRY CLUB

(Member NZ Chartered Clubs Inc) P.O Box 81 - Maungaturoto - Northland 0581 maungaturotocountryclub@gmail.com

Maungaturoto Recreational Society Incorporated

NOTICE OF ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

The Annual General Meeting of the Society is to be held in the Clubrooms at 84 Bickerstaffe Road, Maungaturoto on 21 May at 7pm sharp.

AGENDA:

*Election of Officers

President’s Annual Report

Financial Report

Notices of Motion

*Note: Nominations for election to be delivered to the secretary no later than Tuesday 7th May 2024. The Club requires a president, treasurer, vice president, secretary and active committee members to join the committee.

All members are urged to attend this meeting in order that any decisions made are the will of the majority of members. Tina Holst; President.

The Bunker Limited of Mangawhai, has made application to the Kaipara District Licensing Committee for the issue of an on-license in respect of the premises situated at 3E & 3F Main Street, Mangawhai Central known as The Bunker

The general nature of the business conducted under the