Kaipara Lifestyler, February 14th 2023

All the fun of the show

 by Andy Bryenton

The Northern Wairoa A&P Show, hosted at Arapohue last weekend, was a chance for families to enjoy some country hospitality.

Local Three Waters impacts tabled

Despite

The field days experience

Community group faces closure

The wild weather stayed away, and the crowds were out in force to try their hand at traditional games such as the sheaf toss, gumboot throw and tug of war and witness the equestrian, shearing and livestock competitions. There was also a packed indoor section celebrating self-

$5,290*

sufficiency and the cream of the crop in local produce.

After a hiatus due to Covid-19, the show season has been enthusiastically embraced by both locals and visitors in 2023. Paparoa’s show and the big day at Arapohue went back to back on

consecutive weekends and enjoyed plenty of patrons coming through the gates.

Now all eyes are on a different kind of rural show; the return of Northland Field Days in early March. 

 Prize-winning livestock was on display, with the judges carefully considering a whole herd of prime performers

 Unexpected stars of the livestock section, the goats proved that personality and attitude count for a lot when the judges come calling

 A young contender sets the bar high, tossing the sheaf with an oldfashioned pitchfork in a bid to win bragging rights for a whole year

 Shearers ply their trade in the shadow of Maungaraho Rock; points earned here are part of a Northland-wide circuit for the masters of the shears

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COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS NEWS YOU CAN TRUST

Mayor’s Message

Greetings,

It’s been a wild ride with the weather, with rain, rain and more rain. Kaipara is still feeling effects from the Auckland Anniversary weekend weather event. The biggest impact is SH1 through the Brynderwyns, which, like all state highways around New Zealand is managed by Waka Kotahi NZTA and has only just opened back up to two lanes of traffic as this goes to print. I have heard frustrations from residents about the lack of detour signage, especially marking the heavy vehicle route via SH12 and SH14, causing our local roads to get hammered by the extra traffic and heavy vehicles. This has been fed back to our national roading agency and I will be keeping a close eye on it if we end up in a similar situation again.

Sadly another lingering impact has been the iconic Mangawhai Heads Surf Club, significantly damaged by a huge landslip following the heavy rain. While grateful no one was seriously injured, I am really disappointed for the Mangawhai Heads Surf Club family. Institutions like the club house, run by hard-working volunteers, are the important glue holding our communities together.

Part of knowing where to go and what to do in events is helped when you have the right information. I’ve just got Antenno on my phone, and

0800

council@kaipara.govt.nz www.kaipara.govt.nz

Firefighters gifted

 Bayleys real estate representatives, Tony Grindle and Todd Skudder, presented a cheque to Dargaville Chief Fire Officer Jeffrey Palmer and his second-in-command Jason Campbell. The realtors are committed to donating to the local volunteer brigade; this latest round of giving will pay for portable emergency spotlights.

Colourful summer fun

it is a very useful tool. Council uses it to send alerts on services – things like road closures, water outages, rubbish collection reminders and more, direct to people’s phones. We also use it to share Civil Defence and weather warnings. I encourage everyone to get it to stay informed. Plus, you can also use Antenno to log service requests. It’s an easy way to let Council know if something needs fixing or maintenance. There is plenty on the agenda for this year, and stepping out and talking with the Kaipara community about some of the issues facing the district has been top of my list. I spent time at the Paparoa A&P Show last weekend and had some great conversations with Kaipara residents. Look out for the Kaipara District Council stand again at Northland Field Days next month, where I will make an attendance, along with some of the other Councillors and KDC staff.

Until then,

 The winners of the Anzac Theatre Colouring In Competition celebrated their artistic success recently. Successful competitors were (front) Renae Mager, Keeley Franklin, (back) Ali Iosefo, Jade Stott, Bo Reeves-Price and Layla Turner. Four draws were announced on the theatre’s Facebook page each Saturday morning in January, and they were gifted tickets to a film of their choice.

Field days’ rescue

Mayor Craig Jepson Kaipara District

 Dargaville’s volunteer firefighters battled water instead of flames last week, to rescue the town’s field days site from the aftermath of winter storms. Standing water would have got in the way of preparations for the big farming event if it wasn’t for the trucks and pumps of the brigade alongside local diggers and machines. Firefighter Jason Campbell says it was their pleasure to do their duty and help smooth the way for this year’s highly anticipated festivities.

Local Three Waters impacts tabled Croatian ancestry explored

 by Andy Bryenton

Despite speculation that the controversial Three Waters reforms will be among policies affected by new prime minister Chris Hipkins’ effort to ‘reprioritise, refresh and refocus’, the Kaipara District Council continues to plan for the scheme’s implementation.

In a briefing to elected members last week, KDC’s general manager of infrastructure services, Anin Nama, explained that several areas of the reforms would directly impact the council and ratepayers.

“The council will have reduced service for providing water, wastewater and urban stormwater services, as these functions will be carried out by the Water Service Entities (WSEs). Further, the council, as a consumer, will be required to pay for water, wastewater and stormwater services,” said Mr Nama.

While the KDC will be charged for water services across all council-owned properties, and hence the ratepayer will foot this bill, the WSE will not pay any rates on any of its own facilities on KDC land.

It’s also been made clear that while urban stormwater will come under the auspices of the WSE for Auckland and Northland, rural drainage will not, leaving the funding for infrastructure like the successful Raupo Drainage scheme

in question. Stormwater associated with transport networks is also out of the WSE’s scope, a pertinent point in a district with many hundreds of kilometres of country roads.

Furthermore, the WSE could require the Kaipara District Council to be its debt collector, enacting ‘pass-through billing’ to residents. It also gains the power to impose water restrictions at will, requiring council consultation but allowing for no veto.

In return for these concessions, the KDC will receive a cash payment in mid2024 to retire the debt it currently holds in water-related infrastructure. 

 by Andy Bryenton

A trio of eminent academic figures studying Coatia’s history, language, and culture is coming to Dargaville to explore the link between the coastal European nation and the Dalmatian diaspora of the 1800s.

The group consists of Dr Marijana Boric from the Croatian Academy of Science at the University of Zagreb, Dr Josip Lasic from the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences at the University of Split, and Professor Luka Budac, from the Faculty of Croatian Studies at Sydney University. They will visit Whangārei, Kaitaia and Dargaville in a quest to discover more about the rich heritage of the Dalmatian settlers in this area.

“We would like to get to know the traditions and customs that you foster in the Dalmatian Club and community,” says Dr Boric. “During our stay in New Zealand, we will travel around the North Island to explore the tangible and intangible legacy of immigrants from Croatian areas who came to New Zealand in search of work and a better life.”

The acclaimed academics will be in Dargaville on Thursday, February 23, where they are keen to meet with locals interested in their ancestry, and the immense contribution Dalmatian settlers made to the development of Kaipara.

They will present an engaging series of presentations and would like to take note of the artefacts and histories of local members of the diaspora. There

will even be a virtual exhibition and a presentation for a younger audience about the Renaissance genius Faust Vrancic, inventor of the first working parachute, tidal power turbines and the vertical-axis windmill.

Those wishing to attend can contact club secretary Lani Leiataua for more information ahead of the engagement at the Dalmatian Club Hall in Dargaville on February 23. 

 Three Waters continues to be a major presence around the council table, with some of the proposed powers of the new Water Service Entities heavily impacting KDC operations

 Respected academician Dr Marijana Boric, along with colleagues Dr Josip Lasic and Professor Luka Budac, are coming to Dargaville to share in Dalmatian and Croatian history and culture

Art for paws with a cause Raising money for Scout event

 by Andy Bryenton

A local artist is participating in a nationwide project, using creativity to help people who need a guide dog companion to aid their vision.

It’s a rigorous learning process to become a guide dog and the facilities to tutor pups as helpers for the visually challenged need an overhaul. It could cost more than $10 million. Hence a novel approach to fundraising, and the involvement of local artist Micaela van den Berg.

“The kennel where they train the dogs is in need of a major overhaul, and at the same time, the old, iconic ‘guide dog’ charity boxes used by Blind Low Vision New Zealand are being retired,” Micaela said.

These dog-shaped money banks are big enough to serve as statues. The idea was floated to have them all painted up by Kiwi artists and then auctioned for charity.

“I was in the orbit of this appeal because of my involvement with a similar project two years ago,” says Micaela. “So, of course, considering the cause, I put my hand up and volunteered.”

Her theme is an interpretation of the term ‘guide dog’, drawing from the tradition in Mesoamerican culture, which teaches that a spirit animal can guide us through times of uncertainty.

“Blind Low Vision New Zealand is the only organisation that trains and breeds guide dogs for New Zealanders with

vision loss,” says Bernadette Murphy, fundraising manager for BLVNZ.

The not-for-profit group raises puppies with the help of experienced animal tutors, making them into exceptional dogs that give a better quality of life to the visually challenged.

“The current waiting time to receive a guide dog is around two years. The anticipated increased demand over the coming years will extend the waiting time unless more dogs can be successfully trained.”

 by Amy Fifita

Dargaville Scouts will have various fundraisers this year to pay towards the 2023 Mystery Creek Jamboree.

“We have two fundraisers for the start of this year. We are selling pine cones and firewood to help towards the cost and plan to have a chop suey fundraiser,” Johnnita Houghton says.

The event has seen children from across New Zealand rally together to experience various outdoor activities. In previous years, the Scouts attending the jamboree have had the opportunity to enjoy kayaking, white water rafting and rock climbing, to name a few.

“The jamboree starts the day after Boxing Day, and it is for the land Scouts. We have about 15 children

to raise money for, and it will cost about $2,000 a head.”

For more information about buying pine cones and firewood, give Johnnita a call at 027 296 5889. Large bags cost $15, or if you are buying more than one, they will cost $12 each.

The jamboree is an event that occurs every three years. It is a national event for the organisation, and sometimes, Scouts from overseas come to join in the comradery and activities.

It is an environment that is designed to encourage connection between other Scouts, Venturers and Rovers alongside staff and leaders. In previous years, leftover food was donated to charities. 

A

LEAF WITH

COUNTRY 2023

 Dargaville artist Micaela van den Berg has answered the call, helping raise money for guide dog training

 The 2008 National New Zealand Jamboree saw Scouts from across the country enjoying various activities

The field days experience

The 2023 Northland Field Days committee is excited to host the upcoming event on March 2—4 and looking forward to welcoming old and new visitors and exhibitors in the farming and lifestyle industries.

“After not being able to hold the field days for the past two years due to Covid restrictions, we are looking forward to welcoming everyone back,” says the committee.

“We are excited, and it is set to be a very positive experience with more than 300 exhibitors, including food vendors, lifestyle and rural pavilions. The Northland Field Days is not just for farmers. It is for lifestyle block owners, families and anyone interested in the rural sector.

“We have many activities for the family to enjoy together, and this year, we also have mobility scooters available for hire to help people with mobility issues join in the fun.

“The fencing competition for NZ Young Farmers is set for Saturday, March 4, along with fencing demonstrations on all three days.

“The tractor pull is set to take place on all three days, with the finals on Saturday. There is lawn mower racing, the logger sports competition and the log loading demo on Saturday.

“People can show us their skills with the laser clay bird shooting, and activities for kids include bouncy castles, slides, merry-go-round, rides on the little fire truck and toy jeep rides.

“Animal lovers of all ages can visit the mobile petting farm, and Helinorth will

have scenic flights on offer on Saturday, and the Wellness Hub by Te Whatu Ora — Health New Zealand is coming along.

“The Northland Field Days is run by volunteers with one paid staff member. The committee has put in a huge amount of their time, provided their equipment and machinery and a few family members to bring the event to life.

“When you spot the men and women in their Northland Field Days shirts, we’d love you to say hi. With the hundreds of exhibitors on-site, come and talk all things farming with the experts in the industry and get advice on a wide range of products and services.

“We are looking forward to community support and people coming along, having fun together and meeting past and new exhibitors.” 

Councillors asked ‘are we urban?’

 by Andy Bryenton

Councillors discussed a possible urban future at last week’s District Plan Review briefing after hearing how growth may have tipped the balance from rural to metropolitan.

Kaipara District Council members were given the facts by Michael Day and Katherine Overwater, regarding the National Policy Statement on Urban Development. This raft of policies sets out the ways in which councils must plan for growth, including subdivision and development.

KDC legal advisers opined that the district could be considered ‘urban’, due to Mangawhai’s expansion. If one part of a district is considered urban, the policy statement applies to the entire municipality; it was cause for vigorous discussion.

“The reason we are talking to you today about zoning and about subdivision is that these are the most important topics in the District Plan Review,” said Mr Day.

“As we move forward, we will be challenged on this,” Ms Overwater said. She noted there had already been comments that Kaipara should be considered urban.

Notably, Private Plan Change 78, which established Mangawhai Central, stated that Mangawhai was indeed an urban environment. It would trigger new rules about building density and a requirement for the council to plan to meet the demand for more housing and business. It was noted that Dargaville, too, may see two large subdivisions established in the near future, and questions were raised about provision for new industry there.

While a decision was not required at the briefing, many councillors expressed the opinion that Kaipara is not yet urban, despite rapid growth in parts. However, the fact that the district is on the threshold of this kind of definitive change means that the current District Plan Review is all the more timely. 

 Is Kaipara urban or rural? Councillor Paniora suggested that Mangawhai might be considered separately from the largely rural west, but this is not possible under the proposed government policy

 The 2023 Northland Field Days Committee

Celebrating the spirit of Te Tiriti

 by Andy Bryenton

Muddy Waters Gallery in Dargaville was transformed with art installations upstairs and down as the creative community celebrated Waitangi Day.

A wide range of artworks was on display, from intricately woven tukutuku panels to handmade feather kākahu cloaks, sculpture, carving, weaving and traditional paintings.

“It’s a bigger and better version of our first exhibition last year, and I wonder how we can top this for 2024,” said local art tutor Julie Hoeta.

Her students were at the forefront of the exhibition in many ways, presenting a testament to the success of her 2022 classes. With people from all walks of life joining in to learn, the opportunities for cross-cultural sharing that have been opened up by the Dargaville Arts Association here are apparent.

As well as artworks of a contemporary nature, the day was a chance to see personal taonga, which were brought to the gallery along with their stories. Handshaped stone tools from olden times and even a mere crafted from pounamu that is said to have been sourced from ancestral Hawaiki were on display, along with their stories.

Wetland restoration help for Kaipara

 by Andy Bryenton

The Kaipara Moana Remediation organisation is offering financial and logistic support to landowners who wish to restore wetlands on their properties after February’s record rainfall underlined one aspect of their importance.

This year’s World Wetlands Day, on February 2, was overshadowed by storms and flooding across the north. The wild weather highlighted the importance of these kinds of biomes in preventing disaster, says Amy Macdonald, chair of Northland Regional Council’s Natural Resources Working Party.

Another example was a selection of teeth from the jaw of a whale stranded at Poutō in years past after a battle with a deep-sea colossal squid. These teeth may one day be carved in respectful remembrance of the great creature, an image of which was rendered in sculpture for the exhibition.

“There was so much to see and do, and this was a great, inclusive way to allow the public a chance to learn about art, culture and the treaty of Waitangi’s significance,” said Dargaville Arts Association spokesperson John Pickworth. 

“Wetlands are important because they help prevent flooding and improve water quality,” said Councillor Macdonald. “The plants in them slow the flow of water off the land so that, in times of flood, more can be absorbed into the soil and taken up by the plant life. In summer, stored water is slowly released from wetlands, maintaining water flows.”

Up-to-date mapping shows almost 5,400 hectares of freshwater wetland vegetation was destroyed through human actions in New Zealand between 1996 and 2018. Ecological restoration group Kaipara Moana Remediation (KMR) is helping to roll this back. It offers to fund 50% of the cost of large-scale wetland restoration projects on land surrounding the Kaipara Harbour. As well as acting as a buffer against flooding, wetlands

support biodiversity and wildlife, filter run-off and decrease siltation. The KMR programme is not limited to wetland remediation. It has the ambitious aim of improving the water quality of the entire harbour through riparian planting, fencing and land restoration.

Landowners within the harbour’s catchment who wish to take up the offer of financial and planning aid for a 2023 wetland project can find out more at kmr.org.nz. 

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 Art tutor Julie Hoeta with just a few of the creative taonga on display at Dargaville’s Waitangi Day art exhibition and celebration  Northland Regional Councillor Amy Macdonald delivers a timely message regarding wetlands’ role in flood protection, as the KMR organisation offers funding for wetland restoration

Community group faces closure Farmers, hunters up in arms

 by Andy Bryenton

SeniorNet Dargaville will end unless new leaders step up to continue the valuable programme, which helps older citizens get the most out of technology.

“Twenty-two years of commitment has come to an end for the team at SeniorNet Dargaville,” says Heather Cashin, who has been a long-term leader of the group.

“Last year, upon reflection, we felt unable to commit to the work involved in keeping up to date with technology so that we could help others, and also the administration which was involved with running the help centre.”

A decision was made unanimously that the team would all step down at 2023’s AGM. The plan is to sell all the group’s chattels and leave a clean start for anyone younger wishing to take up what club members call an interesting and fulfilling challenge.

New leadership would have the backing of a national federation, which operates SeniorNet groups around New Zealand. Additionally, the incorporated society which took care of Dargaville’s branch

remains active, would be an enormous advantage, says Heather.

A new team at the helm locally would also enjoy the assistance of fellow chapters from Bream Bay and the wider Northland region.

“The team at SeniorNet Dargaville is sad that this situation has come about, but after many AGMs when we have asked for new members to come aboard, this hasn’t happened,” says Heather.

“If you wish for Dargaville to have a help centre for technology and have ideas to revive local interest, please come along to our AGM on March 6 at 1pm at the KCC Hall, 38 Hokianga Road.” 

 by Andy Bryenton

Farmers, hunters and pest controllers face a proposed price hike of up to 500% on gun licensing, slammed by groups including sports shooters and environmentalists.

The 2022 budget gave more than $200 million to police to help regulate the responsible ownership of firearms. Despite this, officials state they are underfunded, and the fee for owning a firearm legitimately must increase. They have proposed recouping up to 75% of the ‘actual cost’ of licensing as calculated by police sources. That could see the cost of gun ownership skyrocket from $126.50 to $727.50.

“At the moment, licence holders are paying less than 15 per cent of the true cost of a licence,” says Deputy Police Commissioner Jevon McSkimming.

“Even if the current firearms licence fee was doubled, it would fall well short of the actual cost.”

Fish and Game New Zealand has officially stated that its organisation believes such a move will ‘disincentive compliance’, at a time when illicit gun ownership is a major factor in crime. The Council of Licensed Firearm Owners said the consultation document has vague assertions without substantiation, and fee increases would not deter the illegal use of firearms.

Police shared a bizarre justification spreadsheet with the Sporting Shooters Association of New Zealand comparing firearms licensing costs to, among other things, 10 years of trout fishing licences or the licence to grow medicinal cannabis commercially. Politicians on both sides of the aisle have misgivings about the cost hike.

“It’ll be counterproductive, making it too expensive for folks to get a firearms licence, particularly at a time when there is a cost of living crisis,” said National’s spokesman on the issue, MP Joseph Mooney. 

CONTRACT FENCING

 SeniorNet’s local leadership has made the difficult decision to close down the Dargaville group, citing the need for fresh hands to help with administration and learning

 Joseph Mooney of the National Party has spoken out against gun licensing hikes, which have been called unsubstantiated and counterproductive

Kaipara representing at Waitangi

Kaipara adviser Joesephine Nathan and the Te Tai Tokerau Community Engagement 2023 Census team attended the Ngāti Hine Health Trust’s event at the Waitangi Day celebrations. The team spread the word about the census and gave out prize packs and surveys. “Our team blended in with our whānau and shared some key messaging about the what, why and who counts this round — all of us count. We will be on tour in Kaipara from March 15–22 to help assist whānau with completing their paper forms or online. Our goal is to tiaki (care for people and place) as many of our whānau in completing their census forms and understand the importance of the census and why we need to be counted this round,” Joesephine said.

May 19-20 2023

DARGAVILLE TOWN HALL

 Members of the public enjoying the Kapa Haka at the Waitangi Day celebrations

 Joesephine Nathan and Errol Wirihana Mau and his two sons, who travelled from Australia to paddle the waka for the celebrations

 The community engagement team with the Ōhua team, which will be on board collecting census forms

 A gaming machine was part of the event that tamariki enjoyed

DARGAVILLE WEARABLE ARTS

Pay rise is no inflation fix Official word on berm status

 by Andy Bryenton

Last week, prime minister Chris Hipkins announced another increase to the minimum wage, in a bid to stem the tide of cost of living hikes. We asked Dargaville’s business owners their opinions.

We’re further increasing the minimum wage, lifting it in line with inflation from April 1,” Hipkins said last Thursday.

“I know there will be some businesses that may be concerned about this decision. However, it’s the right thing to do. In a cost of living crisis, we can’t leave those on the lowest incomes behind.”

It will be the third wage increase for low-income earners enacted by the current Labour government since the Covid-19 pandemic. Notably, while the mandatory pay rise on April 1 is only for those on the minimum wage, pay parity agreements and the desire to retain skilled staff will see wage rises across most local companies. There’s also a knock-on effect throughout the economy.

While Dargaville business leaders, many of whom employ only a small number of local staff, were in support of easing the strain for those struggling to make ends meet, none thought that the measures would cure inflation, the root of the problem.

“They are in debt and have printed more money than ever before to get through Covid,” said local retailer Jason Campbell. “Prices rise, and the benefit of more money in your pay is cancelled out.”

A technical tradesperson who wished only to be identified as RW says that they have voluntarily given staff pay rises recently and have taken a pay cut themselves to accommodate this.

“Costs from our suppliers have gone up, sometimes 200% or more, as they, too, have had to increase wages. In the end, nobody wins, and inflation increases.”

At Godfrey’s Mowers and Chainsaws, the opinion is also against this short-term scheme. Owner Trevor and some of his technicians and staff agree on one core principle.

“The only beneficiary of this will be the government. More wages means a higher tax take, and they can use this to make the books look balanced.”

This newspaper’s general manager, Deb Wright, offers a

solution that’s an alternative to the government’s proposal.

“While fair pay is important, this is not the only thing to consider. To help everyone wouldn't it be beneficial to remove GST from New Zealandgrown fruit, veggies, meat, fish, eggs and bread?” she says.

“Extending this to sanitary necessities would also be of great benefit to everyone, and between fresh food and products for better hygiene, there would likely be an increase in the health and wellbeing of the community.” 

The service change was consulted and agreed as part of the KDC’s latest Long Term Plan, and means the council no longer mows residential berms. There has been confusion in recent weeks why this has happened, and who may be exempt.

Kaipara District Council mayor Craig Jepson says the change in service applies across the entire Kaipara District, with no residential berm mowing occurring in any town or village. He explains that it’s one of a number of things introduced to keep costs down and avoid rates increases.

“We were one of the last councils in New Zealand collecting rates to mow residential berms,” says Mayor Jepson. “We’ve cut it from our service contract to save ratepayers money. Council contractors will continue to mow our public reserves. After we’ve tidied up these berms we’re asking residents to maintain them.

“Most Kaipara residents are already mowing their berms, and we want to say a big thank you to those people who are doing a great job of keeping them tidy. We’re also hoping people will look out for family or neighbours and give them a helping hand if they are struggling to manage their berms.” If berms are unkempt, the council will mow them up to four times a year to prevent them from becoming a fire hazard. The council may continue to mow residential berms larger than 400 square metres or on a steep slope. Where this applies, residents can apply to the council to have their berms assessed for council mowing.

 by Andy Bryenton

Kaipara District Council is requesting that residents mow their own roadside berms to keep Kaipara neighbourhoods tidy, as the service is cut to trim council budgets.

 Other options are in the government’s toolkit to solve the cost of living crisis, says Integrity Community Media general manager Deb Wright

Retirement & Lifestyle

A time for beginning

 by Amy Fifita

As you go towards the golden years of free time and being a doting grandparent with endless spoils for your grandchildren, what else could you do to bide the time?

You’ve worked hard and raised children throughout your youth. Maybe it’s time to start pursuing your passions once more. You have plenty of hours in the day now when you don’t have to work constantly.

Perhaps learn a new skill or start revisiting unmet goals you had when you were a young adult, ready to experience the world. If you’re interested in the arts, you could take up a painting course or learn how to play an instrument.

Get to know yourself again in this new phase of life. Retirement doesn’t have to be boring. Some retirees even go after

thrill-seeking activities like skydiving and other adrenaline-pumping events.

You have time to catch-up with old friends, meet new people and welcome newcomers into the family. Now is when you may want to look at your days from a new perspective and continue experiencing life.

Enjoy walking or other types of exercise, and keep yourself healthy. Physical activity can be as high or low intensity as you like according to your needs. It may be best to discuss what you can do with a professional such as a doctor or physical

Phone: 09 439 4452 | 09 439 7801

 Retirement is an opportunity to jump into your interests such as caring for a garden trainer first, so you know the scope of what you can do.

Take on new roles in your family or the community if you want to. The decisions are yours, and you know your strengths and what your passion projects are. Grab the spare time you have in retirement and go for it.

If you want to give back, reach out as a volunteer to one of the local organisations. It could mean helping out in the community garden, being a shop person at the local charity shop, working with people or offering advice.

See what groups are on offer in the area. They will be a place where you can socialise and hone your skills at what you love, whether it be art, sewing or whatever you fancy. You could even start one of your own, and it would create a network with other like-minded people.

Remember to find joy in what you choose to do in these years. Your quality of life matters, and pursuing social and well-meaning activities is good for your mental health. Enjoy your retirement and spare time experiencing what you choose to do. 

&

Planning for a peaceful legacy

 by Andy Bryenton

It’s sometimes hard to face up to the fact that sooner or later everybody needs a last will and testament, but the benefits and peace of mind of having this document squared away are priceless.

It’s not just about your worldly possessions going to the right relatives and friends. Having a will in place enables you to know exactly who will take care of your pets, which charities you might wish to donate to as a legacy, how your intellectual property is managed and how your last wishes are carried out. Importantly, it’s also a good way to ensure that your family is not in for lengthy court proceedings after you’ve passed on.

Like a lot of our legal framework, the origins of the last will and testament go back to the age when Latin was spoken by all; the era of imperial Rome. In those days, inheritance was a simple matter of the eldest son receiving all of his father’s lands, goods and honours. However, circumstances made this difficult for many Romans reaching old age. Firstly, giving long-serving servants of the household their freedom, and enough money to begin a new life, was the wish of many Romans in their later years. Without a will, these people would remain as ‘property’ to be inherited.

Then there was the rise of career soldiers in the legions, and career politicians and merchants, many of whom never raised a family. They wanted to avoid

all their wealth going to the government when they died. Lastly, powerful women in Rome had the ability to amass fortunes and treasures the equal of many men, but the laws of inheritance only applied to the male line. For all these reasons, the idea of a legal will became popular and was codified into law.

So things remained through the Middle Ages when wills were entangled with oaths of fealty to kings and queens, and succession issues that could have been managed with words on paper often devolved into warfare. One such struggle totally redrew the map, as the king of France tried to uphold the will of King Carlos II of Spain, who was physically and mentally ill. A counterclaim by his distant cousins started a war that engulfed all of Europe and led to the foundation of modern Holland, all because of the dispute as to whether Carlos was ‘sound of mind and body’.

The most famous case of a will that should have been written properly is Jarndyce v Jarndyce, a fictional case from Charles Dickens’ novel Bleak House. This wrangle was based the true story of Jennens v Jennens, which was battled through the British courts for 115 years. Generations of the Jennens family fought

bitterly for the estate of the Acton Miser, William Jennens, who many say was an inspiration for Ebenezer Scrooge, an entirely different Dickens character. In

the end, the estate ran out of money, and all, lawyers noted, for want of a penny’s worth of ink on a piece of paper while he was alive. 

 The ‘reading of the will’ was very important in olden times, as large families had to share complicated estates and titles and a good legacy plan is still well-advised today

& Lifestyle

Getting the care you need

 by Amy Fifita

If you are about to retire or have already, it’s time to have a realistic talk with yourself and your family members about your needs now and what you may need in the future.

Think about where you could stay in the future. Visit a retirement village or home, look at your options and see which one suits you best now and later in life.

Some retirement villages have rest home facilities on-site too. So as you begin your journey into the golden years, you can be assured that people are there should you need extra assistance or respite care.

One benefit of being in some facilities is that the doctor will visit you rather than the other way around. They will assess your issue and, depending upon what the diagnosis is, can have medication delivered or picked up by a member of staff. You will be cared for by the staff so

you can focus on other things and enjoy life without added stress.

Talk to someone in the industry about care plans and what you think you need or want help with. Maybe you could enquire with home care providers to see what services they offer and get an assessment to see what kind of care they can provide. They can help with various activities such as personal hygiene, medication assistance, cooking, cleaning and welfare checks.

Another benefit of in-home care is that it is in your place of comfort. If you feel uncomfortable about a carer, you can request to have another one or one you are familiar with. They will come into your

 Care facilities focus on your medical needs so you can continue having a good quality of life

home, do what needs to be done, provide some company and leave you to it.

If you are cautious about getting assistance and getting a person in your home, know that in time you will get used to the routine and know that you have Code of Health and Disability Services Consumers’ Rights, and the same goes for anyone in care. It is important to know your rights so you are not taken advantage of.

Your rights are:

• To be treated with respect

• To have freedom from discrimination, coercion, harassment, and exploitation

• To have dignity and independence

• To have an appropriate standard of service

• To have effective communication

• To be fully informed

• To be able to make an informed choice and give informed consent

• To be supported

• Rights in respect of teaching or research

• To complain Being in a facility allows certain issues to be sorted in one place with the necessary equipment and trained staff. Rest assured, knowing that you have rights and the people caring for you know what they are doing to meet your needs. 

Retirement & Lifestyle

Chasing the sun on wheels

 by Andy Bryenton

It’s a common sight on the summer highway; a retired couple with a cheeky name painted on the side of their motorhome headed out to discover the hidden gems of New Zealand.

There are good reasons why the over65 demographic has fallen in love with life on wheels and why scenic campgrounds are full of well-appointed campers each summer. While there are some pitfalls to avoid when getting into the mobile life, there are some big advantages to be had.

The first is the ability to get to know New Zealand. Tourists from around the world pay big money to visit our nation, and we’re known for having some of the finest views and greatest destinations on Earth. A self-contained camper or house bus allows people to get out there and see sights they may have missed out on during the grind and hustle of a careerbased life in the city.

It ticks a lot of boxes for good mental health in one’s retirement years. Getting out there, seeing new things, meeting new people and experiencing adventures is a proven way to keep ‘thinking young’. There are also a wealth of opportunities

to get active when you’re out on the road; scenic walks and tours, cycle trails and nature walks, beaches and lakes to swim in. All these things promote a healthier lifestyle, and that’s before we mention the dining opportunities afforded by travel.

DARGAVILLE.

THURSDAY THE 16TH OF FEBRUARY.

If you have had a full/partial mastectomy, lumpectomy or reconstruction, Specialist Consultant Susan Doig will assist you with your choice of prostheses and bras from the extensive range of Anita, Amoena and Trulife.

Monthly mobile service available from Greater Auckland to Kaitaia.

Ministry of Health funding available, note your funding may be spent in part or full with any approved provider.

For an appointment at a venue near you or in your own home

PHONE SUSAN:

027 451 9285 or 09 536 4220

EMAIL: breastcare.essentials@gmail.com

WEB: www.breastcareessentials.co.nz

Those who have embraced the camper and house bus life also report that it’s a great way to enter a new phase of your relationship with your partner. Married couples who have had little time to spend together through decades of working life can enjoy each other’s company on the road, and sharing new experiences is the best way to make lasting, good memories together.



There are other little bonuses, too. A camper is easy to keep tidy, and it’s an affordable way of life out there on the

highway. Many over-65s have built up considerable assets from their years of work, but want to actualise those investments and turn them into quality of life as they reach retirement. Off the grid, self- ontained camper life cuts back on bills like rates and amenities while offering a chance to downsize. A well-maintained camper or bus is a very valuable asset in and of itself if the time comes to sell. 

Volunteer Drivers Needed

To assist Kaipara residents get to cancer related treatments in Dargaville, Whangarei and Auckland

Please phone us at Daffodil House 0800 366 066

sponsored by Kaipara Community Health Trust

The open highway calls to many over-65s, with a full-time holiday lifestyle appealing to a new generation of camper and house bus drivers

DARGAVILLE

DARGAVILLE

Embrace Rural Living - Three Lifestyle Sections

Approximately 8670sqm each section. With expansive views towards Tutamoe, conveniently located to Baylys Beach and Omamari Beach, and the nearby stunning Kai Iwi Lakes, these sections are ideal for those wanting to build their country lifestyle dream.

$350,000 PER SECTION GST Inclusive

Megan Browning | M 027 668 8468

DARGAVILLE SURROUNDS

Country Living and Privacy

A great property with 12ha of land, home and sheds set in a lovely private rural setting. The older three bedroom home with rumpus/family room is well back from the road giving you some beautiful rural, river views and privacy. Double garage and sleepout. The property has several sheds and one with workshop, concrete flooring and power. The sheds would be great for calf rearing. Several paddocks with rolling to flattish contour. A very picturesque property with the river boundary which I am sure the family will get so much enjoyment from over the summer months.

pggwre.co.nz/DAG36004

$650,000

DARGAVILLE

Enjoy Country Lifestyle

79 hectares

Dam water

Two cabins, one with deck Planted in Manuka and native trees (not in ETS)

$900,000 Plus GST (if any)

Megan Browning | M 027 668 8468

pggwre.co.nz/DAG37165

DARGAVILLE

Simply the Best Location, land and views

28 hectares

Three-bedroom villa

Double garaging

• Tidy infrastructure

$1.27M Plus GST (if any)

Megan Browning | M 027 668 8468

pggwre.co.nz/DAG37015

RUAWAI

Variety of Income Options

152.316 hectares in total in two titles with an effective area of approx 145 hectares. Approx 90 hectares of flat land at the front of the farm of which 86 hectares is in maize for grain, with the remainder of the land utilised for sheep and cattle. 35 hectares of the flats have been laser drained. Water is sourced from a dam and gravity fed to troughs. Two sets of cattle yards, plus a set of sheep yards and a haybarn. A very nice block that will attract a range of interested purchasers. The property has been well farmed and is in a very good location with options around future use.

pggwre.co.nz/DAG36750

DEADLINE SALE Plus GST (if any)

(Unless Sold Prior)

Closes 2.00pm, Thursday 23 February

Ron Grbin

M 027 471 6388

E rgrbin@pggwrightson.co.nz

Dennis Wallace

M 022 312 7704

E dennis.wallace@pggwrightson.co.nz

RUAWAI Sheep and Beef Farming Opportunity

The Iconic Greenhill Stud

This historic property has been farmed by the same family for more than 100 years. 400 hectares, in 7 titles, with an effective area of approx 320 hectares. Contour is a mix of rolling to medium to the rear, with a mix of rolling to flat at the front. Approx 50 paddocks, with water a feature on the farm, sourced from a large spring fed dam and pumped to header tanks, then to troughs. Good up to date farm infrastructure, a very nice three bedroom homestead, plus a two bedroom self contained cottage, all on established grounds and gardens. Well set up and ready to go.

pggwre.co.nz/DAG37386

3 1 2

DEADLINE SALE Plus GST (if any)

(Unless Sold Prior) Closes 2.00pm, Thursday 23 February

Ron Grbin

M 027 471 6388

E rgrbin@pggwrightson.co.nz

Dennis Wallace

M 022 312 7704

E dennis.wallace@pggwrightson.co.nz

Colonel Bell and the road trip from hell

 by Andy Bryenton

There’s a certain kind of dark humour to be had from imagining politicians up to their waists in mud, struggling to move a bogged-down car on the ruined, washed-out road between two small Northland towns.

However, this vision is not from some recent daydream. In 1917, responding to a challenge from passionate Northland promoter Colonel Allen Bell, a large contingent of Wellington’s finest took to the road in early autos, headed for a loop of the ‘top end’. Their experience would go down in history as a gruelling feat of endurance and an introduction of the motor car to the north.

Allen Bell had fought in the Boer War in South Africa, so he knew about bad roads.

The military veteran had taken up farming near Kaitaia and was very keen on the progress of his adopted province. He was one of the people credited with changing the name of the area from North Auckland to Northland. Like modern-day advocates of regional growth, one of his big gripes with the government was about roading.

Bell was sick of the dust in summer and the mud in winter, and he challenged parliamentarians to come and see for themselves what was holding back trade and commerce in the north. A large group accepted, including the speaker of the house. Still, being savvy politicians, they picked January 16 to set out, reasoning that the mud would be minimal in a northern summer. Their vehicles were predominantly early Fords, though other US brands were in evidence in the 33-strong fleet, as well as imports from Europe.

The first obstacle was dust. Choking clouds led to arguments about a rota to break trail. Everyone behind the lead car became caked in powder and had to breathe through a scarf or handkerchief. It was the main issue up the east coast to Kaitaia. However, between there and

Ahipara, the rains came, and the mud began.

Witnesses to the tour describe members of parliament covered in mud, wading up to their knees or waists in it, pushing cars and trying to tow each other out of ditches. The party bought every rope and chain in Ahipara, and even with all this help, it took six hours to drive the 26 kilometres to Herekino.

A brief respite was had when some of the drivers opened up the throttle on Ninety Mile Beach, hitting an unheardof 60 miles an hour on the hard sand. Then it was back to the mud and a grim procession toward the Hokianga, where several drivers gave up at Kohukohu and took ship for Auckland. The convoy continued down via Dargaville and across to Brynderwyn, then back to the city.

It was a shattering experience for many. The trip, which could be undertaken in a day or two with modern roads, took two weeks. Of the 33 cars that started, only 10 reached the finish line. Politicians, journalists and roading engineers were bathed in mud, choked in dust and

forced to make repairs on the fly in harsh conditions.

However, Bell’s mission proved unsuccessful in the short term. Just like today, politicians baulked at spending money on Northland roads. It would be 15 years before a paved highway even made it as far as Whangārei. Allen Bell became editor of the Northern Age and expressed in his editorials about a lack of economic development in his beloved province. It’s likely that when he was frustrated by the lack of progress, he could comfort himself with the memory of those parliamentary personages slipping and sliding in the mud on the road from Ahipara to Herekino. 

 Conditions like these, and worse, faced the 1917 parliamentary tour of Northland around every corner; still, the politicians were not convinced to fix the roads

New life for old classics

 by Andy Bryenton

From quirky classics to nostalgic cars from your younger days, all the way through to top-level hot rods and genuine vintage survivors, there’s a lot to love in the world of collectable cars.

With prices skyrocketing, the temptation to justify a great piece of oldschool automobilia as an investment is at the top of many people’s minds this summer. A trip to one of the season’s many classic car shows or a rummage through the online classifieds can spur a lot of inspiration. The only trouble is that many of us are convinced that we can take care of the big job of restoring and caring for a classic using our own garage, a limited amount of tools and rudimentary skills.

While there are certainly people reading this, who are masters of the wrench and airbrush, most true petrolheads have a love of fine old autos that’s not matched by the massive knowledge needed to perform a full restoration unaided. That’s not too much of a problem, as there are experts ready to help at each step of the way. Here are some top tips from those in the know.

Different materials and different techniques — Your dream car might be a neat old Toyota from the 1980s, or it could be a classic cruiser from 1940s Detroit. All kinds of cars from different eras have different kinds of materials making them up, from the thickness and quality of the steel in their panels to different types of trim and interior upholstery. Working on a modern car with ample plastic and galvanised thin metal,

is very different from tackling one of the big ‘tanks’ from the 50s, for example. When it comes to removing dents, filling dips and beating rust, it’s best to get advice from a specialist in the era your classic comes from.

Cyber dos and don’ts — The Internet has a wealth of knowledge about restoring older cars, but some of it is fraudulent, some of it is fantastic, and some of it is just plain wrong. As a general rule, join the owner’s club for your favourite car, before you buy. Have a heart-to-heart with existing owners, and they will tell you how to spot a prime specimen to purchase. They can also help you source parts for obscure models, but in the long run, it’s often better to have these bits installed by a qualified mechanic.

Consider some cheeky upgrades — Some say that altering a classic car in any way is treason. Others opine that putting better brakes, functioning air conditioning, more reliable wiring and modern suspension on an old-timer is giving it a new lease on life. The very oldest classics, for example, can be made much more utilitarian by switching six-volt power systems for a more modern 12-volt.

 The core aim of any restoration is not just to get back the looks of your classic car, but to

For tasks like these, a good auto electrician can be of invaluable help. In the same way, when looking at a ‘resto mod’ fix for suspension, gearing or even the big job of an engine swap, there’s no way to go it alone; talk to a mechanic and an engineer about how to make your new creation warrantable and safe. 

“No other product we have used during the last 37 years has come close to offering the same level of rust protection as CorrosionX”

John Galvin

make it safe, easy to use and warrantable

Kaipara Kōrero

News from Kaipara District Council

Help keep Kaipara neighbourhoods tidy

We’re asking Kaipara residents to mow their own berms from now on. The Council no longer mows residential berms, to help keep rates down. Most residents are already mowing their own berms and keeping Kaipara tidy.

Some residents were not aware of the change and their berms are now too long for them to mow. Council contractors will do a one-off tidy-up of these properties over the next few weeks. After that, we’re asking residents to maintain them.

The Council will mow unkempt berms up to four times a year to reduce fire hazard.

If your berm is more than 400 square metres or on a steep slope you can apply to the Council to continue mowing it and they will assess your berm for mowing. You can read more about berm maintenance in Kaipara District at kaipara.govt.nz/berm-maintenance

Applications open for Creative Communities Scheme

You have until Wednesday 01 March to apply for the Creative Communities Scheme.

The scheme provides funding for a wide range of arts activities and both individuals and groups can apply. Applications for round one for 2023 are open from 01 February – 01 March.

The funding supports a wide range of arts projects and covers things like materials for arts activities or programmes, venue or equipment hire, personnel and administrative costs for short-term projects, and promotion and publicity of arts activities.

Details on how to apply and application forms are available at kaipara.govt.nz/funding

Check out our full list of community funding opportunities while you’re there!

Kaipara Libraries update

Its back to school and time for students to get stuck into their schoolwork. Kaipara libraries have some awesome resources for students to use for assignment and homework help.

• Britannica is a go-to reference resource for all ages to use.

• Any Questions? is an awesome resource for information and help from real librarians around the country.

Ask a librarian for more information about these resources. You can find your closest library at kaipara.govt.nz/services/libraries/find-the-library or access the library online at ent.kotui.org.nz/client/en_AU/kaipara/ Head to the eResource button to directly access these services.

Each month, Dargaville Library encourages visitors to try a new phrase in te reo Māori.

Word for Huitanguru February:

Ruru - Morepork/Owl

Give it a go next time you’re chatting with one of our librarians.

Making Te Tai Tokerau accessible

What does an accessible Te Tai Tokerau look like? The four Northland councils are working together to make our communities more accessible to live, work, play and visit.

We want your feedback on how councils can improve the lives of people with access needs. Find out more and give your feedback at kaipara.govt.nz/access Feedback closes 26 February 2023.

Meeting venue change

The venue for the Economic Development Committee meeting scheduled for Tuesday 14 February has changed to the Mangawhai Conference Room, 1C Molesworth Drive, Mangawhai.

Flush

•

WHAT’S ON?

February

TokaFest — 18 February 2023 — MIdday to Midnight at Tokatoka Tavern, $10 per person, under 14 years free. Camping Available. Phone 027 489 6093 to enquire.

Donnellys Crossing 100th Anniversary Picnic & Sports Day — Saturday 18th February 2023, 10.30am, gold coin donation entry. Lots of fun activities and competitions for children and adults. Bring your pet dog and enter the fun dog show. Old Mill Road, Donnellys Crossing. Cash only. Alcohol free.

Twilight Bowls at Dargaville Bowling Club — 22 February, starts 5.45pm, $10pp includes light meal, full bar available. Teams of three, casual dress, flatsoled shoes, bowls available for use. Also happening on 8, 22 & 29 March. Contact Ray 021 337 072 or Ron 027 535 7214.

Come and Drum! – Sunday Community Sessions 2023 — 26th February 4–5.30pm at Baylys Beach Community Centre, 52 Seaview Road, $10 per person, $5 drum hire. Once a month. BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL. Contact Josie 021 0223 8621 or josie.scott@xtra.co.nz.

March

37th Northland Field Days — 2nd, 3rd & 4th March –Farming, Family & Fun. Gates open at 9am. 33 Awakino Point East Road, Dargaville. Pre-purchase your tickets at www.northlandfielddays.co.nz.

Markets

Dargaville Twilight Market — Last Friday of each month, 4.30pm–7pm. Northern Wairoa Boating Club, Totara Street.

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

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

Paparoa Artisan Market — 4th Sunday monthly 12–4pm. Paparoa Memorial Hall.

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

Club/Organisation

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.

Arapohue Tennis Club — Starts Monday 24th October 6.15pm onwards at A&P Showgrounds. Contact Raewyn 09 439 2152 or Sue 09 439 2154.

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 021 153 5674.

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

Dargaville Aero Club — Learn to fly, free of tuition charges, Gyrocopter, Texan, Stork. Contact Peter 09 439 1628 for further info.

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

Dargaville Contract Bridge Club — Tuesdays 12.45pm and Wednesday 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 — meets 2nd Tuesday of the month at 10am at the NW Boating Club. For info phone Phyllis 09 439 6681.

Dargaville Games Club — 1st and 3rd Thursday of the month at the Dargaville Scout Hall, Onslow St, 6pm–9pm.

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 9–4 until Labour Day then 9–5 until Easter. Volunteers, visitor hosts and members welcome. Phone 09 439 7555.

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.

Grandparents raising grandchildren — First Tuesday of every month except during school holidays. Noon at Whanau focus, Victoria St, Dargaville (next to bakehouse). Contact Sandy dargaville@grg.org.nz or 021 044 6214.

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.

TIDE CHART

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 09 439 7108 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.

Lions Club of Ruawai — Meets 3rd Thursday of the month (social night) at the Sports Club and 1st Thursday of the month (business meeting). For more info contact 09 439 2029 or 09 439 2557.

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

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 DNA at the Research Rooms, Dargaville Museum, 4th Sunday of each month 12.30–2pm OR attend our monthly meetings on the 4th Sunday of the month from 2pm–4pm. 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.

Peggy Purls in our Community — Every 3rd Wednesday 10.30am at Dargaville Sewing and Curtain Centre, 59 Normanby St. Ring Charlene 09 439 6120. Pono Lodge Yoga — Pono Lodge, 41 Hokianga Road, Dargaville. Mondays: Hatha Flow 5.30pm, Yin 7pm. Tuesdays: Body Focus 9.30am. For more info contact Anisha 021 301 860 or see our Facebook page Dargaville Yoga.

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. Contact Secretary/Treasurer Betty Bruce 09 439 4344. 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 Dargaville Town Hall. Contact Sharon 027 439 5634 or 09 439 5634 for more details. Vaccine Passport required.

Stitches and Craft — 5 Cranley St, Dargaville. 10am–4pm Tuesday and Friday Contact Lois 027 473 0598 for further details.

Strength & Conditioning — Baylys Beach Community Centre — Mondays and Fridays. Small class groups. 10am–11am $10 per session. Call Tony 022 311 8447.

Wednesday Crafts — Every Wednesday 10am. Morning tea and lunch will be served. Variety of crafts. The Kiosk at Memorial Park. All welcome. $7 per session Contact Judy 027 316 3940.

• NEXT IS 15th FEBRUARY

• BRING YOUR LUNCH — HAVE A COFFEE

• TALK ABOUT CREATIVE WRITING AND THE ARTISTIC PROCESS

• COME AND MEET THIS MONTH’S GUEST SPEAKER

PUZZLE TIME

Sudoku

ACROSS: 1 Take to the cleaners, 10 Bewilder, 15 Tariff, 16 Wanderlust, 17 Vanguard, 19 Skittle, 21 Serge, 22 Cheapened, 25 Ostracise, 27 Regular, 29 Silent, 33 False, 34 Official, 36 Mayonnaise, 39 Ait, 41 Foresee, 42 Sailor, 43 Incite, 44 Fade, 45 Cardiac, 48 Best seller, 53 Suspect, 57 Dive, 58 Butler, 59 Output, 60 Ignited, 62 Tun, 64 Thermostat, 65 Stealthy, 66 Abyss, 69 Feeble, 70 Poultry, 71 Oversleep, 76 Badminton, 77 Signs, 78 Hearten, 83 Laudanum, 84 Patronised, 85 Siding, 86 Suffered, 87 So near and yet so far.

DOWN: 2 Alaska, 3 Exist, 4 Oaf, 5 Hawk, 6 Confess, 7 Energy, 8 Nile, 9 Rush hour, 11 Erased, 12 Ingredient, 13 Draw, 14 Radiant, 18 Madagascar, 20 Lark, 23 Scoff, 24 Hesitate, 26 Suspend, 28 Enlarge, 30 Pagoda, 31 Violet, 32 Foetus, 35 Inane, 37 Event, 38 Feta, 40 Till, 45 Cadet, 46 Reviewed, 47 Cruise, 48 Belladonna, 49 Sort, 50 Sponsor, 51 Lather, 52 Equal, 54 Urge, 55 Pliable, 56 Crease, 61 Amalgamate, 63 Share, 67 El Dorado, 68 Flue, 69 Foibles, 72 Venison, 73 Impure, 74 Winner, 75 Hernia, 79 Radio, 80 Gulf, 81 True, 82 Edgy, 85 Sot.

Insert the missing letters to complete ten words — five across the grid and five down. More than one solution may be possible.

Tu Christey Massage Therapist

Economic development team assembles

 by Andy Bryenton

A landmark meeting of the Kaipara District Council’s newly formed committee on economic development met on Tuesday, immediately tackling issues such as collaboration with other Northland councils and how to make building consents easier.

‘Economic development is listed as one of the five policy priorities of Local Government New Zealand. To succeed, local authorities need to ensure that they not only offer a good life and effective infrastructure and services, they must also promote these attributes,’ states a report from Northland Inc, presented by acting CEO Jason Marris to elected members seconded to the committee.

This description, used to set the terms of reference for a joint approach to regional economic development by the four councils of Northland, shares its major sentiments with the ethos behind the KDC’s Kaipara-focussed Economic Development Committee.

The committee is made up of deputy mayor Jonathan Larsen as chair, with

councillors Mike Howard, Gordon Lambeth, Ron Manderson, Ash Nayyar and Mark Vincent adding their experience and opinions. While mayor Craig Jepson does not chair the committee, it is a project which is very important to him.

“It’s perhaps one of the most important things we’ve put in place for this new council,” said the mayor when questioned on the significance of the new group at last week’s Arapohue Show.

At their first meeting of 2023, committee members tackled three heavyweight issues of economic development for Kaipara. These are the joint Northland councils’ approach to regional development, helmed by Northland Inc; a review of the performance and customer-facing aspects of the

Shellfish danger

A public health warning has been issued against collecting shellfish from the Kaipara Harbour area extending throughout the whole of the Kaipara harbour up to a line across the entrance from the top of Oneone Beach across to North Head.

Building Consent Authority, and an

Routine tests on shellfish samples taken from the harbour have shown levels of Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning (PSP) toxins above the safe limit of 0.8. Mussels, oysters, tuatua, pipi, toheroa, cockles, scallops, catseyes, kina (sea urchin) and all other bivalve shellfish should not be eaten. Cooking shellfish does not remove the toxin. Phone Healthline for advice on 0800 611 116.

CLASSIFIEDS PHONE 09 439 6933

FOR SALE

3MTR SCAFFOLD Planks $77. Scooters Plywood 09 438 6565.

CARAVAN EWOF (and marine). Call your local inspector today at A+ Electrical Inspections and Security on 021 240 6764.

HAYBALER NEW HOLLAND 281 conventional. Good condition, shed stored. Makes good bales. Free rake included. $2,000 plus GST. Phone 027 499 3887.

SUZUKI ESCUDO Vitara/Grand Vitara — car parts, WOF parts, 4x4 parts etc. Good parts, good prices. Phone Derek 09 439 7573.

TOP SOIL, top quality, $85 per m³ onto your trailer, or truck deliveries available for larger orders. Phone 021 132 4107 or 09 439 5141.

FREE

GARDEN MULCH shredded clean copy paper. Provides warmth, protection & nutrients to plant’s roots. Pick up Lifestyler House, 107 River Road, Dargaville.

GRAZING

GRAZING SHORT or long term. available Te Kopuru/ Redhill area. Phone Craig 021 206 3498

SECURITY

SECURE YOUR Home — Security Doors,

SEPTIC TANK SERVICES

MAGIC PROPERTY Services, effluent & septic tank cleaning. Servicing the Kaipara. Phone Chris 027 480 0110 or Mary 027 459 1544. 7 Days. WE ARE THE ONLY CODE COMPLIANT OPERATORS IN THE KAIPARA.

TREE SERVICES

TREE REMOVAL, pruning, chipping & stump grinding. Qualified & Insured. Phone Scott 0800 468 9663 Arborcare Tree Maintenance.

TREE TRIMMING Truck using Grapple/Saw – 26m reach — Pruning, Removal, Chipping, Qualified Arborists SIMPLE – FAST – SAFE – QUALIFIED – EXPERIENCED – VALUE FOR MONEY. Servicing KAIPARA CALL Team Vegetation on 09 439 0050

 Chairing the newly formed KDC committee on economic development, Councillor Jonathan Larsen is keen to address the big issues facing the district

open conversation with KDC staff on matters of district-wide economic development. 

CLASSIFIEDS

PROPERTY MAINTENANCE

1 STOP Window & Door Repairs — Seals, Latches, Stays, Wheels, Hinges, Locks, Glass & Glazing. Phone 027 275 0918 or 09 439 6458 — Kevin Sowter or visit my website: www.windowanddoors.co.nz — Window & Door Services Ltd.

LAWN MOWING, local available to take on more lawns. Phone Jackson 022 543 2792.

Dargaville Bobcat

ARGAVILLE MEDICALCENTR

PHONE 09 439 6933

PUBLIC NOTICES

DEATH NOTICES

Practice Nurse

We are looking for a Registered Nurse to join our busy Medical Centre, 32 - 40 hours per week. Part time or job share will also be considered for the right applicants.

The ideal applicant must have; a current APC, excellent communication skills, Have a ‘can do’ attitude and work well in a team environment.

Preferred but not essential; Practice Nursing, A&E or acute assessment, current vaccinator certificate, smear taker, IV therapy and wound care.

Closing date 17th February 2023

Please send a covering letter and your CV to: Dallas Taylor: dallas@dargavilledocs.co.nz

DARGAVILLE HIGH SCHOOL CHECK AND CONNECT MENTOR

Applications are invited for the above position.

We are looking for an energetic, passionate and motivated person to build relationships with students and whanau to overcome barriers to achieving success.

WORK WANTED

JOB WANTED farm labourer/management. 30 years experience in farming, fully-qualified mechanic, welder steel stainless welding gear. Single male accommodation with 2-car garage wanted with job. Flock house federated farmers training school bulls. 1x working dog heading, complete workshop tools for mechanical repairs, tyre machine, carpentry equipment and all fencing equipment. 1x heading horse with filly at foot grazing required. Lockable workshop wanted, 55 years old, no dependants, early starts, normal fair 25 per hour. Currently working Whakapirau. Have awesome references. Call John Wilson Gunn 020 4022 9481 evenings.

RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE:

• Build and maintain positive relationships with whanau and external agencies

• Work with all stakeholders to provide wrap around support for students to reintegrate into the school environment

• Regular reporting to senior leadership and Ministry of Education

The position is full time, fixed term for 1 year and will commence as soon as possible or by negotiation.

Closing date for applications is 28th February 2023

Please send applications to: The Principal Dargaville High School.

57 Plunket Street, Dargaville. Or email office@darghigh.school.nz

TRADES & SERVICES

CARPET CLEANING, repairs, re-stretching, and patching. Flood drying and small carpet laying work and upholstery cleaning. Very fussy and reasonable prices. Phone Darren, Alltrades Carpet Services 0800 425 587 or 027 286 8584.

WATER TANK Cleaning. Phone Pete 027 444 3053 or 09 405 9510.

WANTED TO BUY

SUZUKI 4X4 Wanted to buy — parked, damaged or unwanted, Escudo Vitara/Grand Vitara. Phone Derek 09 439 7573.

ACOUSTIC MUSIC Blackboard Concert — First Thursday of the month — 7–9.30pm, next is 2nd March 2023, 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 both Dargaville AA Meetings are held at the church, crn Parore and Normanby Sts. Use Parore St entrance. Monday 4.30pm & Thursday 7.30pm. Phone Bernie 027 212 2148, Ladies 020 4082 1373, Murray 09 439 5248.

DARGAVILLE HEALING rooms 7pm Tuesdays. No charge & no appointment necessary. Lion of Judah Building, River Road. All Welcome. Check us out on Facebook.

HEAVY SUMMER rain is putting our kumara, maize and peanut crops at risk. Maybe we need to apply crushed charcoal to the fields to improve drainage and capture atmospheric carbon. This is being done on a large scale by the Skyclean project in Denmark. I have put about a ton of charcoal on to my own garden. Lance Bullock.

KAIPARA GREY Power are very pleased to have Amee Nicholson Health Improvement Practitioner, part of the Dargaville Medical Centre’s team, as a guest speaker at our next General Meeting on Friday, February 17th 2023. Everyone is welcome. The meeting will start at 1pm in the Dargaville Methodist Complex, then enjoy a cuppa prepared by Michelle.

VALERIE JUNE WATSON, (Val)

Passed away on 11th February 2023; aged 77 years.

Loved wife of the late Jim; mother of Darrin, Colin, Fiona, Hamish and Lisa. Nana of Joshua, Kaitlyn, Lee, Sean, Megan, and Aiden.

A celebration of Val’s life will be held at the Dargaville Fire Station, Normanby Street, Dargaville, on Friday 17th February 2023, at 1pm. All correspondence to c/o PO Box 306 Dargaville. In lieu of flowers, a donation to Kaipara Community Health Trust will be appreciated.

PUBLIC NOTICES

Council has received a Private Plan Change request (PPC 82) from Moonlight Heights Ltd.

The purpose of the private plan change is to:

• Rezone 39.2ha of land at Awakino Road, from Rural Zone to Residential Zone.

The private plan change was originally notified on 17 January 2023 including on the Kaipara District Council website, www.kaipara.govt.nz

Submissions were to be received by 5.00pm on 17 February 2023 but due to late delivery of mail to possible affected parties, and an error in the original notice, the submission date has been extended by 14 days under section 37 of the RMA. Submissions must now be received by 5:00pm 9 March 2023.

You can make a submission by completing the PPC82 Submission Form (Form 5 or similar) or the on-line form on the Kaipara District Council website.

Please quote “PPC82 – Moonlight Heights” in correspondence or email to planchanges@kaipara.govt.nz

We

Authorised by Jason Marris, Interim CEO. Publication date 14 February 2023.

DONNELLYS CROSSING PICNIC

Sat 18th February 2023. 10.30am Start

Lots of Fun Activities and Competitions for Children & Adults

Highlights: Races, Food Bars and Stalls, Treasure hunt, Bouncy Castle, Raffles, Chainsaw Timed “Bar Flip” Race...

Also: Vegetable Cake Competition, Judged by Len.

Prizes Awarded Based on Presentation and Tastiness.

Come and have a fun and interesting day out, have a guess at the number of lollies in the jar (and maybe win the whole jar!!!).

Maybe bring your cute pet dog and enter the fun dog show.

Please Note: We don’t have eftpos payment facilities, so bring plenty of cash!!!!!

Any enquires ph. Ian/Michele 09 439 5758

FUN DOG SHOW

Awards for:

“Dog With The Waggiest Tail”

“Prettiest Girl”

“Handsomest Boy”

“Dog Most like It’s Owner”

“Smartest Dog In the Show” (Must Obey Commands)

“Most Fun Dog”

PLUS: “Best in Show”