Kaipara Lifestyler, March 12th 2024

There’s

Councillors call for rates rethink

u by Andy Bryenton

The mood around the council table last Wednesday, when elected members met in Ruawai, was one of determination to adjust Kaipara’s projected 18% average rates increase downward.

“Eighteen per cent just isn’t going to work for me,” said councillor Rachael Williams, summing up the consensus around the table as projected figures for the Kaipara District Council’s forthcoming Long Term Plan were discussed.

“We’re facing a real conundrum,” said councillor Howard. “There has not been a rates increase of this magnitude proposed before.”

“We have a duty to our ratepayers in general to have an affordable increase,” agreed councillor Paniora.

A detailed analysis of projected rates increases for different localities across the district was up for discussion, too, with

councillors urging the need to ensure that any increases were fair and equitable for town and country. The question of targeted rates occasioned spirited debate on how they could contribute to anomalies, such as the projected 40% or more increase for certain Dargaville properties.

“This rates increase is going to be hard on people with fixed incomes,” said councillor Nayyar, suggesting a lower firstyear rise.

Mayor Jepson also looked to the future, expressing the opinion that the government would soon move on the affordable waters issue and that aid to council infrastructure could form part of

Ultimately, all councillors expressed a desire for the 18% average rates increase to be brought down. Further savings and economies may ensure that four per cent more can be pared off this figure, but this is now in the hands of council staff, who will prepare new calculations in time for the KDC general meeting at the end of March.

Decisions on rates levels are fundamentally linked to the council’s new three-year Long Term Plan, which should be out for public consultation in April. ¢

p “The best way to get more submission on our plan is to make it a bit edgy,” said councillor Mark Vincent, encouraging spirited public discourse on rates and the LTP

Shane Jones’s sequel to the Provincial Growth Fund.

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The Kaipara Lifestyler is published with pride by Integrity Community Media, a privately owned Kaipara company.

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to every residential and rural home throughout the district including Dargaville, Ruawai, Paparoa, Matakohe, Maungaturoto, Kaiwaka, Mangawhai and Wellsford.

p This photograph from the 1950s shows the town of Te Kōpuru, with its famous hospital in the power corner of a triangle formed by Norton Street and Hospital Road. Preserved to this day by a trust, the old hospital once served to train doctors and nurses from around New Zealand.

p Selwyn Park School opened its gates for an influx of families to enjoy the afternoon playing sports, swimming and eating complimentary sausages. Kyla, Indy, Marli, Zoe (rear) and Jacob attended the day with their parents. “We plan to do a whānau day every term to celebrate us and encourage families to be comfortable coming to school,” said principal Todd Warmington. “I am looking forward to having more students enrolled so we can qualify for another teacher to lessen the load and improve teaching and learning.”

p Last Friday, Tangowāhine School and Arapohue School children had a taste of sailing with the Sail Northland Charitable Trust. Students took turns sailing at Lake Waikare in the Taharoa Domain. The programme is designed to teach tamariki sailing safety and to engage in. “The day was good,” said TWS principal George Pickering. “The children had fun and took turns skippering on the optimist sailing dinghies and aboard the small sailboat.”

u by Andy Bryenton

Rally reset has a date New Mangawhai reservoir discussed

There’s a new date for the biggest motorsport event to grace west Kaipara roads as rally organisers regroup and plan for a successful race.

The organising commit tee of the major sporting event made the hard decision to postpone the rally after a tragic accident at the Arcadia Road Rallysprint claimed the lives of two young and promising rally participants.

“The Ventia Rally of Dargaville Tunatahi was set to go this Saturday with a strong entry list, but instead will take place on Saturday, July 27,” says event chairperson Marty Roestenburg.

“The unfortunate passing of Brooklyn Horan and Tyson Jemmett has affected the whole rally community.

“It is appropriate to pause while we all take some time to grapple with the enormity of this happening. Many are very close to or know both families, and the rally committee thought it respectful and appropriate to move the rally to a later date.”

The Ventia Rally of Dargaville will now become the third event on 2024’s North Island rally series calendar. The season will now get underway with the Piakonui Road Rallysprint in Matamata on April 28.

The later date has been organised to ensure that race teams and top drivers can fit in the rescheduled Dargaville event alongside a full card of racing throughout New Zealand as they vie for top honours. Despite the delay, organisers and sponsors are confident of an excellent turnout, anticipating 60 racing teams and many more spectators when the rally comes to Kaipara.

The six-round Generator Rental Services North Island Rally Series will be contested over a variety of road surfaces, including tarmac, and incorporating both local Clubsport events through to participating in a New Zealand Rally Championship round. ¢

The Kaipara District Council is pitching into Three Waters-related infrastructure as Dargaville and the west continue to suffer water restrictions, and warnings of Mangawhai bores being near capacity are sounded.

With no funding coming from the central government, the onus is on elected members to orchestrate better water sources across the district. While options for expanding the council-owned Opanake Road reservoir have been tabled for the west, recent discussion has focussed on the eastern seaboard.

“Mangawhai currently relies on a combination of private rain tanks and groundwater bores to supply water,” said infrastructure manager Anin Nama.

“The existing aquifers which supply the bores are at maximum yield capacity. There are a limited number of commercial suppliers who can respond when rain tanks require filling during extended dry periods.”

It’s speculated that during a drought, tanker trucks would not be able to keep up.

“There is a risk tanks could be empty for days before a supplier could respond, even if the KDC augments this with

additional emergency supply options,” says Mr Nama.

One solution discussed last week was a new reservoir for Mangawhai, situated in the valley above Pebblebrook Road in the town’s hinterland. This planned dam, which could service 5,000 homes, would cost approximately $15 million, while a pipeline to central Mangawhai would push the cost to an estimated $35 million.

While a report is prepared, another smart solution for the short term has been discussed: water tank level monitoring technology to allow for better use of the bores that already exist. As yet, there is no timeline for the speculative construction of the Pebblebrook Valley Dam. ¢

p Postponed, not cancelled; the Ventia Rally of Deargaville Tunatahi is now set to hit the gravel in July

p A map shows the potential site of a new dam for Mangawhai; perhaps, even the precursor to reticulation for the fast-growing town should it be implemented

Ninety-day trial periods return

u by WRMK Lawyers

As promised, the National-led government has implemented a 90-day trial provision for all businesses, regardless of employee numbers.

This new amendment came into force on December 23 2023, removing the small-to-medium business cap instituted by the previous government.

Ninety-day trial provisions give employers an avenue to dismiss employees within their first 90 days of employment and remove an employee’s right to raise a personal grievance for that dismissal. The trial period may actually be fewer than, but no more than, 90 days. Avoid the most common mistakes made by employers

Sign the agreement before starting work

If employees’ jobs are subject to a 90day trial, they must sign their employment

Public Meeting

Hosted By Kaipara Grey Power Elder Abuse

Our Guest Speaker: Rachel Windle

Friday 15th March 2024 Dargaville

Methodist Church Complex

Format 1pm President Stewart Quirk 1.10pm Rachel | All Welcome

agreements before (not on) their first day and be given time to seek legal advice if desired. Trial periods have to be voluntary, so they need to be agreed to by both the employer and the employee before work commences.

If a new staff member takes the agreement home to sign and returns it on day two, or you take a few weeks to get the paperwork sorted out, then the 90day trial period provision will no longer be valid. Likewise, if you give your new recruit the agreement on a Sunday night and need it returned so that he or she can get down to business on Monday. You’ll leave the agreement open to challenge because that timeframe gives your recruit a slim chance of being able to get legal advice.

Trial periods are only for new employees

A related point is that employers can only have new employees serve a trial period. If an employee has previously worked for an employer, whether for a few days before the agreement was signed or for a few years in a different role, different department or different team, a trial period will not be valid.

Trial period provisions must be correct and in writing

Defective 90-day trial period provisions aren’t looked upon kindly by the courts. Ninety-day trial period provisions must be

written. The written provision must state the length of the trial period. It’s also imperative to state that the employer may dismiss the employee during this period and that the employee is not entitled to bring a personal grievance or other legal proceedings regarding the dismissal. There are strict wording requirements to align with the act and we recommend taking advice on this.

Termination under the trial period employees still require notice

Although 90-day trial period laws make it easier for employers to dismiss staff who aren’t quite right for the job, it’s important to remember that the employee cannot be dismissed without notice. The agreement may specify a shorter

notice period during the trial period, but the notice must be given before the 90 days expire. For example, if the 90-day trial period specifies a one-week notice period, you may give notice on the 89th day, even if the whole notice period will not fall within the 90 days.

To be valid, 90-day trial periods must be implemented by the book. When done correctly, they can be a useful way to see if an employee is right for a role. However, it’s easy to get it wrong so your safest bet is to talk to an employment lawyer.

Whether you are an employer looking to put a trial period in place or an employee who thinks your employer may have got it wrong, the team at WRMK Lawyers is happy to assist. ¢

New citizens choose Kaipara

u by Andy Bryenton

Last week a group of people from many nations congregated in Dargaville to become New Zealanders, joining in a ceremony presided over by mayor Craig Jepson.

The citizenship ceremony is one of great importance and was described by many of the participants as a defining moment in their lives. While some were recent arrivals to these shores, at least one gentleman had waited since 1967 to achieve the status of a true Kiwi.

“Today is quite an emotional day for all of you, and we recognise that,” said the mayor, who led the new citizens in swearing an oath to the nation and King Charles III.

“We really need you, and this country needs talented people like you all the time. I hope you have a very enjoyable citizenship in this country and enjoy all the delights of New Zealand and Kaipara.”

After a welcoming karakia and waiata, the new citizens took turns receiving an official certificate and sharing a few words about what this important distinction means to them. Those who

were honoured with citizenship during the ceremony hailed from nations all around the world. People from Brazil, Taiwan, England, India, Northern Ireland, Fiji, Thailand, the Czech Republic, the Philippines, Tonga and South Africa were all represented.

The diversity and number of new citizens at this year’s first such ceremony are some measure of the remarkable growth of Kaipara, which is experiencing a phase of population expansion predicted to continue well past the end of the decade. ¢

Waste incinerator plan supported

u by Paul Campbell

A proposed waste-to-energy incinerator in Kaipara has a prospective budget of $730 million with a construction start possible in two years.

The news has been welcomed by the Fight the Tip movement, which has fought the proposal to dump Auckland rubbish in a Dome Valley mega landfill.

Kaipara Mayor Craig Jepson says plans for a waste-to-power plant could be fast-tracked under proposed new government rules, with a construction start two years away.

The FTT executive has been keeping abreast of the incinerator proposal and welcomed the possible solution, with its campaign against the landfill still awaiting an Environment Court decision.

“FTT’s campaign against the Dome Valley landfill has highlighted the urgent need to assess current technology for alternatives to landfill for our residual waste,” said member Sue Crockett.

“Within the court process, our presentation to the government select committee and from many of our supporters, a regular question was ‘if not landfill, then what?’ Waste-to-energy is one alternative which has the advantage of helping secure the supply of electricity

as we transition away from fossil fuels for transport, for example.

“My research to date indicates that many of the opinions against Waste to Energy have been addressed by today’s technology and that recycling initiatives do form part of the operation of the plant. The management of NZ’s waste is an ongoing and complex process and needs input from both local councils and central government to ensure the best outcome for their communities.” ¢

Northland

Ruawai

Kaipara

Kaipara

Elizabeth

Millies

Flossies

Lions

Mario’s

Baking

Maori

p Mayor Jepson, in full civic regalia, leads an unprecedentedly large crowd in last week’s new citizens’ ceremony

p Sue Crockett, Fight the Tip executive member

Revelry on the river Leading a legacy

u by Andy Bryenton

Dargaville has a proud maritime history,

this was reflected by the large numbers of patrons sailing in to take part

2024’s local regatta on field days weekend.

Commodore Scott Curel and the committee of the Northern Wairoa Boating Club hosted a very successful event last week, with boats sailing up the Northern Wairoa River from sister clubs in Pahi and Helensville and trailering in from Dargaville and its surrounds.

Runabouts, launches, classic river cruisers and more converged on Saturday, March 2, for the annual event, which also boasted a car boot sale, sausage sizzle, and a commemorative dinner when racing finished and prizes and trophies were in the hands of 2024’s winners.

‘To all who beat the streets for sponsorship, dipped into their own pockets, manned the sausage sizzle, buttered bread, sliced onions, did dishes, peeled kumara, helped serve dinner, donated their time behind the

bar, did the registrations, worked in the tower and just did what needed doing when it needed to be done, thank you from the bottom of our hearts’, read a statement of gratitude from the commodore and his committee, after an outpouring of positive support on social media.

u

Newly appointed Dargaville High School head leaders Bailey Schick and Carmelo Crichton-Marsh want to amplify the school spirit for 2024 for students.

AWARDS WINNERS

Respondents called this ‘an awesome and fantastic effort’, and ‘the best regatta we have seen in years’, lining the shore and congregating on the decks of the boating club itself for a front-row view of the action out on the water. A brisk breeze caused minimal chop, and the rain stayed away despite forecasts of stormy weather, allowing the boaties to enjoy some nautical fun and host their fellow sailors in hospitable Northern Wairoa fashion. ¢

“I have lived in Dargaville my whole life and have the same friend group I had in kindergarten — we have all gone through school together. I’m hoping to create a good environment where they feel safe, enjoy fun activities and make the most out of their education,” said Bailey.

Carmelo says that for him, the key is to create friendships with the students so they can give their all and do their schoolwork.

“It is all about getting together, participating and making friends. I want students to stay strong and get involved,” said Carmelo.

He is also a Māori leader and supports the kapa haka with deputy head leader Kasey Wynyard, whose main focus is

WHERE ART MEETS

supporting Māori and multiculturalism.

“My main focus is helping Māori and international cultures to thrive in our school. Culture includes everyone, and they can express where they come from and feel that they belong,” said Kasey.

Deputy head leader Jimi aspires to be a marine biologist and plans to lead by example. Deputy head leader Tarra Smith enjoys connecting with the year nine students through the new peer support programme to help transition the new students to a bigger school.

“I was shy when I was in year nine, and we want to make life easier for them. I moved to Dargaville full-time a decade ago. I love how the community supports each other,” Tarra said. ¢

p Runabouts race past a fleet of larger craft waiting their turn at the 2024 Dargaville Regatta, hosted by the Northern Wairoa Boating Club

p Dargaville High School leaders Bailey Schick (far left) and Carmelo Crichton-Marsh (far right) with Jimi Donovan, Tarra Smith and Kasey Wynyard

Maritime classic calls Dargaville home Field days rural champions

u by Andy Bryenton

The Kuparu, the sole surviving example of a class of military motor launch that served with distinction during the second world war, has found a new home port in Dargaville.

Captain Scott Perry says he has searched for the right place to base his vessel, but a combination of affordability, friendly locals, access to key services and skilled tradespeople made the town by the Northern Wairoa River stand out.

“The Kaipara Harbour offered reasonable prices, but Dargaville had the advantage of location. Here, there’s a fully secured wharf, we’re right next door to the boating club, and it’s a great little town with good amenities,” says Mr Perry.

Scott Curel, commodore of the Northern Wairoa Boating Club, says he’s very pleased to host both the Kuparu and her owner, who plan to undertake a big programme of repairs, maintenance and upgrades while moored by the riverside. Everything from the big motor launch’s twin diesel engines to her electrical systems and hull is in fine shape, but cosmetically, Mr Perry says she deserves some care and attention.

“To us, as a club, this is fantastic, as we enjoy having history on our site. It’s also

excellent to have a knowledgeable chap like Scott here. To have the Kuparu here is wonderful,” says Mr Curel.

The Northern Wairoa Boating Club and the Kuparu are of a similar age, dating from the 1940s. Those who wish to know more about this classic vessel can check out Kuparu’s profile, facebook.com/savingkuparu, and may also wish to donate towards restoring this piece of New Zealand maritime and naval history via the Givealittle link there. ¢

Northland Field Days was more than a festival celebrating farming innovation, it was also the backdrop to rural sports action, as tractor drivers, working dogs and shepherds got amongst some friendly rivalry.

The tractor pull is always a crowd-pleaser, with young and old enjoying the spectacle of the big machines deploying maximum horsepower and torque. This year, there were several classes and categories pitted against the adamant bulk of the sledge.

When exhibiting businesses sent out their tractor pull champions, Agrinutrients took the gold, while among the rural banking team, it was BNZ with the best foot on the throttle. In the main competition, Brayden Smith managed to hold off spirited attempts by secondplace-getter Scott Harrison and bronze medalist Morgan Vallance.

canines and their humans showing off their skills. In the open contest, sheepdog Dave and T Comins won the day, with Prince and C Robertson second and Brie, working alongside M Child third.

In the teams’ competition, three-person crews aimed to add up big points, and the Nameless Wonders ended up carrying the day, narrowly beating 12mm Spanner and The 8 Team. The best new entry was Jesse Brown, and the award for top sportsman went to Matthew Sandford.

Over at the sheepdog trials, concentration and patience were the keys to victory, with some seriously smart

The intermediate competition was won by the partnership of sheepdog Stream and K Warmington, while the maiden dog category went to Kate and C Roberston. A novice award went to newcomer Rob Gasstra. Meanwhile, in a comical twist on the usual sheepdog trials, a contest between all-human teams to herd the fractious flock resulted in the Farmlands team securing victory. ¢

p NWBC commodore Scott Curel and the captain and owner of the motor launch Kuparu, Scott Perry, shake hands in the wheelhouse of Mr Perry’s historic wartime vessel

p The Farmlands team managed to wrangle the sheep and take home the top prize in this year’s human sheepdog trial

Fighting for better futures

u

by

Amy Fifita

Dargaville boxer Tony Tahere is training for his fourth fight in support of the Takahiwai Gateway To Recovery rehabilitation programme.

“From 12 to 19 years old, I was a part of the Blood gang. I got sick of unnecessary negativity.

Seeing my family heading in the wrong direction and having no one to step out and be a role model inspired me to change,” said Tony.

“My first kickboxing fight was when I was 20 and I have been doing it on, and off for the past decade to release good and bad energy. My fourth fight is coming up. Most of my fights have been boxing, but I have more of a passion for kickboxing because it’s less restrictive.”

Scholarship makes a difference

u by Amy Fifita

Teneti Ulisala and Christian Tautari have been announced as successful recipients of the Kaipara Basketball Association’s Ray Huriwaka Scholarship 2024.

“Christian’s passion for basketball was because of his older brother Gideon. I asked him which player he liked the most, and he said he’s not into idolising players. It’s because Gideon loved basketball that he started loving it, too,” said mother Elania Symons.

Last year, Miah Fraser, Isaiah Pere and Alex Manuell were granted the scholarship. Looking back at the past year, they shared how it has helped them with the sport they are passionate about.

Tony’s fourth fight is fundraising for GTR on March 30. It is a rehabilitation programme that empowers families to fight their addictions in a safe and loving space.

“The fundraiser has a good kaupapa. It is a big turnaround for our brothers there, who were used to the gang lifestyle. They are working with

Flavell Boxing Gym, which provides free classes for people unable to afford training.”

Tony says they are still matching the fighter who will be fairly matched for him. The event is a small event with families of the people in the programme so they can see the progress they have achieved.

“My current journey with Man Up and GTR adds to helping men and women in our communities create a positive direction to head in.” ¢

“The scholarship allowed me to participate in every basketball opportunity that came my way. I was coached in one of my first representative teams by Ray, and he helped spark my love of the game, so it was a real honour,” said Alex.

“I would love to play basketball as a profession, but at the moment, it is mostly fun and friends. Basketball is a fantastic game for all and opportunities in our area.”

The scholarship assisted last year’s participants with uniforms, tournaments, travel and other basketballrelated expenses.

“These opportunities would have been challenging without the financial support of the scholarship,” said Isaiah.

“I love playing basketball. It is a sport that I excel in. Basketball teaches discipline, and it is challenging but fun. The KBA starting in our area has opened up opportunities and grown the game. Lots of my friends are involved now, too.” ¢

p Fighter Tony Tahere has been training solo at Brian’s Gym in preparation for his fourth fight at the end of this month

p Christian Tautari is one of the successful Ray Huriwaka Scholarship applicants; his love for basketball began when he saw his older brother Gideon playing the sport

Tractors to the top

u by Andy Bryenton

A group of friends has set out from the Waikato region on a tractor adventure, headed for Cape Reinga with a return trip over the Auckland Harbour Bridge.

Members of several vintage and heritage machinery clubs from across the plains, including the Otorohanga and Franklin groups, planned their route over a period of months, finally hitching up caravans to a fleet of classic tractors on March 1 to begin the trek.

“We’re going by the old back country roads, and that lets us see a side of the country that people usually don’t,” says Terry. He’s one of the original crew of seven who set out from Whatawhata at the start of the month.

“So far, we’ve had a good run. We’ve had three punctures, but that’s all,” says Bruce, who has also been on the tour from day one.

More tractor drivers, with caravans in tow, joined up when the team hit

Pukekohe, and the mission was aided by the addition of a truck carrying a portable bathroom, and a ute with cooking facilities. Now the tractor tour was all set to push north, skirting Auckland to the west and reaching Dargaville by March 5.

“All of us would like to thank the Dargaville Heritage Machinery Club for their hospitality and for letting us stay here the night,” says Bruce, with the full support of his fellow tractor drivers.

After being hosted at the heritage machinery museum, the convoy set off early, headed for the Rawene ferry and, eventually, the cape. On the way back, they will travel via Russell and the old Helena Bay Road, culminating in a triumphant trip over the Auckland Harbour Bridge. ¢

Back in the saddle

u by Amy

Fifita

The Ararua Hall Fundraiser Horse Trek is on Saturday, March 16, to assist with the venue’s maintenance and other costs.

“We hope this year’s trek will be the best one yet. We have riders who have attended all the rides we have hosted, and the feedback is always great,” said committee member Tania Wilson.

Last year, the fundraiser was cancelled because of damage caused by Cyclone Gabrielle. The trek is popular and showcases local landmarks and scenic views.

“We are lucky to have some amazing scenery in Ararua and the support of amazing farmers who let us ride through their farms.

“This year’s ride will be approximately four hours long and goes through some beautiful farmland and forestry. There is even a spot on the trek where you can see Whangārei Heads on one side and close to Dargaville on the other.”

The annual trek is the main fundraiser for the hall. Funds raised will go towards maintenance and upkeep of the venue.

“Ararua Hall is owned and maintained by the community. The hall is also available to hire for events.”

The trek is for most capabilities and ages but not for lead-rein riders. Riders will receive a safety briefing and will depart from the Ararua Hall at 9.30am. A barbecue lunch will be provided. Registrations are now open, costing adults $40 and children under 16 $20.

For information or to hire the hall, email araruacommunity@gmail. com or visit facebook.com/groups/ araruacommunityhall. ¢

p The trek showcases the areas scenic views of Ararua and the surrounding area

p Classic tractors on a mission to Cape Reinga stopped in Dargaville for some west coast hospitality

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Speaking out against elder abuse

u by Andy Bryenton

This Friday, March 15, Kaipara Grey Power will host a special guest speaker, Rachel Windle from the Seniors ASAP Trust.

Rachel, an advocate for the rights of older people and the founder of a group dedicated to preventing their abuse, will speak at 1pm, at Dargaville Methodist Church hall. All are welcome to this free symposium.

Rachel works on the front lines of intervention and education, helping to protect vulnerable older people from elder abuse. This social ill has been brought into the spotlight by the needs of an ageing population, and the Seniors ASAP Trust is one of the groups actively seeking solutions.

It’s the mission of Rachel and her fellow trustees to offer guidance around the help that’s available in Kiwi communities for

vulnerable older citizens. They also help people find the means to intervene in cases of elder abuse or neglect. Those who find themselves in a vulnerable situation in their older years, or friends, family and whānau worried about the wellbeing of their elder loved ones can find support through the Seniors ASAP Trust. This could take the form of advice, care planning, social work services or other ways to foster safety, security and peace of mind.

Rachel Windle is a registered social worker in private practice. Rachel has amassed two decades of valuable experience working in the areas of statutory social work, sensitive claims,

We install new doors to garages, sheds and barns.

brain injury, family violence, the health and psychiatry of older people and elder abuse and neglect. This experience led her to develop the concept and founding the Seniors ASAP Trust, to which she now contributes as a trustee.

While Rachel will be Grey Power’s guest speaker on Friday, sharing her specialist knowledge and answering pertinent questions, in the day-to-day operation of the trust she’s ably assisted by three other founding trustees. Sally Raymond-Paikea, Emily King and Gail White share Rachel’s determination to bring positive change to the lives of older citizens, and between them, they have established a group that’s making a difference. Recently, the Seniors ASAP Trust has been granted a funding boost from Foundation North to help them support and empower older people in Northland.

Kaipara Grey Power’s Ken Cashin cordially invites the public to attend

Rachel Windle’s speaking engagement on Friday, March 15, carrying on a tradition of topical guest speakers brought to Dargaville by the group. ¢

p Seniors ASAP Trust founding member Rachel Windle will be the keynote speaker at this week’s Grey Power meeting in Dargaville

Technology and art evolve

u by Andy Bryenton

A glimpse of that future and of the emerging technologies that exist in the fractal space between artistic vision and technological intellect is coming to Dargaville on April 6.

Artists are often on the cutting edge of technological innovation, and technical and engineering innovators increasingly blend their disciplines with art, say the team from AwhiWorld. Their pop-up clinic, featuring 3D scanning and printing, virtual and augmented reality, visual projection art, Arduino programming, smart fabrics and much more, will showcase the latest advances in creativity.

“Participants are encouraged to drop in at any time during the event, bringing their questions, ideas, or specific projects for personalised coaching and guidance from the AwhiWorld team. No registration is required. Just come as you are and immerse yourself in the world of creative technology,” says Dr Maggie Buxton.

From 10.30am until 1.30pm, the top floor of the old municipal building on Hokianga Road will be transformed into an interactive lab where visitors can get some hands-on experience with creative

technology. Artists of all kinds, as well as those with a keen interest in popular science, are all invited to come and explore the possibilities.

AwhiWorld, Northland’s leading creative innovation studio, returns to host this event alongside the Dargaville Arts

Association, following a very successful pop-up lab last year.

“Creativity is a valuable asset for everyone, and technology has made it easier than ever to express it. These

clinics provide a safe and supportive environment for people to explore their creativity through various technological mediums,” says Creative Northland general manager Olivia Garelja. The organisation helped make this popup possible. ¢

p Jarred Taylor and Kim Newall, AwhiWorld Creative Clinic advisers, will show patrons how digital, virtual and physical realities blend

ADVERTORIAL

Constructed opportunities

Ecopod Concepts provides its clients with practical and transportable architecture with minimal environmental impact.

Clients can select from more than 30 different pre-designed plans with bespoke options. A team of in-house contractors, plumbers, painters, and electricians will ensure an affordable and aesthetically pleasing build with a sustainable approach.

The experienced team builds structures in a large warehouse setting to minimise the company’s environmental impact. The constructions are suitable for a selection of uses, from office space to accommodation. One example is Mel and Heath McCabe, who wanted an Ecopod to provide extra income.

“Ecopod were engaged in August last year to provide a two-bedroom minor dwelling for Mel and Heath to provide additional income for the growing family,” said business development manager Sam Dyson.

“We delivered in collaboration with our team of professionals in February, along with a code compliance certificate from Auckland Council. The Ecopod is on the market for rental now and is expected to be rented out this month.”

Mel also runs the Warkworth-based Mad Mel Movement gym in Warkworth, madmelmovement.co.nz, and has recently given birth to her second child.

“We looked at how to maximise our space, and we liked Ecopod’s designs. It was a straightforward process, and having the company project manage it, took the stress off us. These tiny homes are great. For us, it is a rental, but for someone else, it could be a great first home,” Mel said. ¢

Beautiful, comfortable, durable

u by Andy Bryenton

ADVERTORIAL Modular Dwellings is the name of an innovative business and a smart new building concept that’s changing the way Kiwis make the most of their land and their lifestyle.

Davey and his team set out to construct small, affordable homes and studios with a difference, setting up their workshop in Kerikeri. Things have gone from strength to strength since 2016 based on their solid reputation for quality and a long list of satisfied customers.

That satisfaction is based on very tangible qualities, of the kind that one might call ‘old fashioned attention to detail’. People looking for a tiny home, some extra space, or a studio separate from their main dwelling want to know that they’ve invested in workmanship that will stand up to the Northland elements and the test of time. Modular Dwellings delivers with full wrap-around insulation, double glazing, a robust structure, excellent materials and a fit and finish that’s truly designer quality.

giving absolute freedom and versatility to combine, customise and make your space unique. Everything can be made at a central location, transported to your site, and assembled to meet a huge spectrum of needs and design aesthetics.

All this adds up to a smart result for those seeking an outside-the-box space solution. Still, why modular? The answer reveals something unique, and even more innovative, about Davey and his team’s intentions. Modular Dwellings are designed to provide the maximum range of options,

If you’re seeking a compact, fully featured one, two, three or four-bedroom home or the unparalleled indoor-outdoor flow of a truly modular structure, you won’t be hemmed in with compromises. Talking with the Modular Dwellings professionals will reveal all kinds of options to suit your land, space, aspirations and lifestyle. ¢

p Ecopod Concepts’ clients Mel and Heath McCabe are thrilled with their build and said that the process was straightforward

p Built with quality, designed to be versatile, and made locally in Northland, Modular Dwellings are the right fit for any space

A century of hot rods

u by Andy Bryenton

The allure of modified classic cars has been a very real thing since before the times when most of those cars were classics.

With Dargaville’s own Hot Rods and Harleys show set for this weekend, March 16, it’s interesting to reflect on the fact that we’re a century on from the dawn of the hot rod’s inception. Today, with a vast spectrum of modified classics, resto-mods, street rods, true hot rods and drag-racing custom cars spanning all of automotive culture, it’s hard to believe that it all began with the ‘wheelmen’ of the US prohibition era.

From 1920 until 1933, running illegal booze was big business, either from illicit stills in the countryside or across

the Canadian border. Being a top-class driver could see a young man go far in organised crime; Al Capone’s top wheelman, Sam Giancana, would one day take over from the famous mob boss. Moonshine runners and mafia drivers learned every trick to strip down, tune up and squeeze more power from their cars, and they enjoyed challenging each other to races when they weren’t outrunning the police.

The term hot rod could have come from one of two places, according to pop culture historians. Either it referred to ‘hot’ or over-powered roadsters, or it was a direct reference to the camshaft, a literal metal rod fitted with lobes to open the valves of the car’s engine. To this day, a cam swap remains a key component of hot-rodding a big V8.

COME AND MEET OUR FRIENDLY TEAM

116 Lower Dent St,

P 09 438 4700 M 0274 795 339

By the late 1930s liquor was back on the menu, but the need for speed remained. Dirt drags, dirt oval racing and speed trials on dry lake beds all took off, and rapid automotive advances gave young drivers a whole new set of tools. Swapping out a car from the 1920s with the new, powerful Ford flathead eight became a recipe for speed and thrills. Then came a second big surge in hot rod popularity that made custom car culture mainstream.

era, hot rod culture has become a collision of art, engineering and social history

After 1945, returning servicemen came back to the US with skills they’d learned fixing jeeps, planes and tanks. They also found that a new wave of modern cars meant that older machines were dirt cheap. Building a car just for racing and fun was affordable, and it soon became an art form, with wild paint jobs, exposed chromed engines, radical modifications

and ever more horsepower defining the look for a generation.

This weekend, drop into the field days site just north of Dargaville to see just how far hot rod, street rod and custom car culture has come, more than a century on from the times when some enterprising moonshiners set out to deliver the goods ahead of the law. ¢

p From illicit outlaw roots in the prohibition

Polaris picked as technology leader

u by Andy Bryenton

Polaris has won a prestigious award from Popular Science magazine, which each year

a small number of ground-breaking technologies as its ‘best of what’s new’.

“This award from Popular Science underlines our vehicle’s performance and our unceasing effort to innovate in the off-road industry,” said Polaris vicepresident Josh Hermes.

“The Ranger XP Kinetic can also tow up to 2,500 pounds (1,133kg) and haul 1,250 pounds (566kg), which leads the segment and makes life easier for those who rely on UTVs as working machines. Farmers, ranchers, or anyone with a large property can use it as an electric pack mule, and all you have to do to feed it is plug it in,” said the Popular Science panel, which conferred the award.

extending that range to 128 kilometres. The Kinetic XP can reach full charge from a normal 240-volt socket in five hours.

enabled the Polaris to grab the Popular Science title is its immediate torque delivery and seamless, quiet operation. Many users of similar machines need to haul heavy loads and need precise control when doing so on rough terrain. Special attention has been taken to ensure that the Kinetic XP delivers. As another bonus, no engine noise means it’s perfectly fine to fire up this Polaris before dawn or after dusk. It’s also a godsend around skittish livestock.

In this case, the futuristic tech on display was the 110-horsepower Polaris Ranger Kinetic XP. It’s an entirely electric off-roader and is the fruit of a collaboration with Zero Motorcycles. That’s a partnership now a decade deep and is hitting its stride. Customers can pick a model with a 14.9-kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery for 70 kilometres of range, or a heavy-duty 29.8 KWh battery

The major payoff here is not just in fuel savings or even in the environmental impact of an emissions-free side-byside. Polaris has engineered the Kinetic XP to require far less maintenance than a comparable petrol-powered machine. That makes a huge difference for those planning to use their off-roader for daily work.

Electric side-by-sides have been seen before, but another advantage which

Popular Science has been picking top new technologies in this way since 1988, and it is usually not far off the mark, choosing inventions like the mobile phone, the digital camera and the home computer in prior editions. Whether the new Polaris Kinetic XP achieves this kind of iconic status remains to be seen, but being featured this way makes it a notable trailblazer. ¢

p Polaris has taken home a top industry accolade, with its all-electric Ranger being picked as ‘the best of what’s new’ by Popular Science magazine

News from Kaipara District Council

Give your feedback on Mangawhai Community Park Master Plan

Council wants your feedback on the draft Master Plan for Mangawhai Community Park

In 2023, we asked the community for feedback on the Master Plan for Mangawhai Community Park The Mangawhai Community Park Governance Committee used that feedback to prepare a draft master plan

We now want to hear from the public to check that the master plan captures the communities’ aspirations for the park You can give us your feedback via a short survey or via email, and there is also an opportunity for you to speak to your submission at a hearing

Once any amendments have been made, the new Master Plan will be adopted and used to guide decision making for the park

Read the draft Master Plan and give your feedback before 5pm on Monday 6 May 2024 at kaipara govt nz/mangawhaicommunitypark or come to a Council office for a printed copy of the draft Master Plan and submission form

Funding available for rural junior sports teams

Up to $10,000 is up for grabs in round one of Kaipara’s Rural Travel Fund for 2024

The fund, which Kaipara District Council administers on behalf of Sport NZ, aims to remove the barrier of travel cost for junior sports teams in rural areas

Otamatea High School is a previous recipient of the fund. Sport Coordinator, Tina Holst, says it has enabled more students to enjoy the opportunity of playing in a team

“The Rural travel fund is a huge help in keeping costs affordable for students who participate in competitions that require travel every week to the venues ”

Round one of Kaipara’s Rural Travel Fund is open from 01 March until 4.30pm 31 March 2024. Head to kaipara.govt.nz/funding to find out more information and to apply now!

Thanks for visiting us at Northland Field Days!

Shout out to everyone who came down to our tent at Northland Field Days

We had a great time meeting you, answering your questions and talking about all things Council! Our Kaipara Libraries team distributed around 800 books as part of the Pūtoi Rito Dargaville Communities of Readers project, supporting reading for pleasure and wellbeing in our communities

Online safety resources for older adults

Netsafe has launched ‘Get up for safety’ resources to support older adults to stay safe online

These safety guides include printable booklets, pamphlets and videos covering essential online safety advice and practical instructions They are designed to help older adults make the most of being online, safely Find out more and download resources at netsafe org nz/olderpeople

Latest edition of Rārangi available

The ngahuru (autumn) edition of Rārangi, Kaipara Libraries catalogue, is available now Get the scoop on library news, book reviews, and behind-thescenes snapshots from the libraries Pick up a copy from your local library, read it online, and if you’re eager to dig into a book – place a hold through the website kaipara.kotui.org.nz

Dargaville Library Māori phrases of the month: Kei hea tō pukapuka? – where is your book?

Anei – here it is Homai tō pukapuka – give me your book

Pouto wharf

Work on Pouto wharf has been progressing well during weather and tidal windows, with the crew taking every opportunity to complete piling works, concreting, and install bearers. With most of the piles now in place, the crew are focused on completing the bracing and joists over the next fortnight

Once these have been ticked off the list, more decking will be built in the T-section at the end of the wharf. Access to any part of the wharf remains closed to the public from now until completion

The Pouto wharf project is led by Kaipara District Council and supported by the Provincial Growth Fund (PGF) through Kānoa – Regional Economic Development & Investment Unit

Work to improve the Pouto Point carpark – including sealing the carpark and pathway connections, as well as extending the land end of the wharf to connect up with the pathways – is expected to start once the wharf work has finished The carpark improvements work is funded with a mix of external funds from the Tourism Infrastructure Fund, and Reserve Contributions.

Sign up to People’s Panel

Consultation on Kaipara District’s Long Term Plan is fast approaching This is a really important opportunity for you to give us feedback on the work we are planning for the next three years

Sign up to People’s Panel now to receive your invitation to provide feedback as soon as consultation opens Register today at kaipara govt nz/panel

Upcoming Council meetings

• Taharoa Domain Governance Committee, 10 00am Tue 12 Mar, Lighthouse Function Centre, 32 Mount Wesley Coast Road, Dargaville

• Harding Park Committee, 1 00pm Tue 12 Mar, Lighthouse Function Centre, 32 Mount Wesley Coast Road, Dargaville

• Audit, Risk & Finance, 9 30am Thu 14 Mar, Mangawhai Conference Room, 1C Molesworth Drive, Mangawhai

• Remuneration and Development Committee, 1.30pm Thu 14 Mar, Mangawhai Conference Room, 1C Molesworth Drive, Mangawhai

• LTP Briefing, 9 30am Wed 20 Mar, location to be confirmed

• Council Meeting, 10am Wed 27 Mar, Ruawai Tokatoka War Memorial Hall, 25 Ruawai Wharf Road, Ruawai and on YouTube

• Raupo Drainage Committee, 10am Thu 28 Mar, Ruawai Tokatoka War Memorial Hall, 25 Ruawai Wharf Road, Ruawai

• Council Briefing, 9 30am Wed 3 Apr, Mangawhai Conference Room, 1C Molesworth Drive, Mangawhai and on YouTube

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

Level 3 water restrictions are in place for Dargaville and Baylys Beach. Head to bewaterwise.org.nz for water saving tips.

March

First Aid Training — 15 March, 8.30am to 5pm. Red Cross Facilitator, funded through Volunteering Northland. Dargaville Museum, ticket price: $30+GST per person for member organisations, $45+GST per person for non-member organisations. For more info volunteeringnorthland.nz/events/essential-first-aiddargaville-15-mar-23, admin@volunteeringnorthland. nz or phone 0800 865 268.

Hot Rods & Harleys 2024 — 16th March at Northland Field Days site, Awakino Point East Road 10am–4pm, Come along for a great day out with live music, food trucks, swap meet and spot prizes. $5 entry on the gate and kids free.

Festival 24 — March 16th at Ruawai Primary school grounds, 9am–4pm. Stall sites available, call Tina 021 151 1569. Public entry by koha plus free parking. Further info, Mal 027 443 6140.

Top of the Rock — Sunday 17th March, St Patrick’s Day. 5km or 10km run/walk. No entries on the day. Check in time 7.30am. Kids Fun Bike Ride — under 11 years, free to enter. Children will need a bike, helmet and shoes. Lots of great spot prizes. For more info www. kaiwakasport.co.nz/top-of-the-rock.

Big Bike Film Night — 25 March. Bringing the best cycling short films from around the world to you. ANZAC Theatre 6.30–9pm. Adults $21, under 16s $15. Book at www.trybooking.com/nz/events/landing/11278.

Inland Revenue Clinic, Heartland Services –Dargaville — 27th March, appointments to discuss any IRD enquiries in person at Whanau Focus Centre, 61 Victoria St, Dargaville. Bookings essential by calling 09 439 7009.

April

Pae Manawa Clinic (Maori Land Court), Heartland Services — in Dargaville, 8th April to discuss any enquiries regarding your land, in person at Whanau Focus Centre, 61 Victoria Street. Bookings essential by calling 09 439 7009.

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.

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.

Markets

Kaihu Hall Market — 3rd Saturday each month

10am–noon. Phone Robin 09 439 4878.

Maungaturoto Night Market — 1st Saturday of every month, 4–7 pm, 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 and 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.

Meditation — Drop In Meditation, Bring Balance, Kaipara Community Centre (side entrance). Thursdays 5.30–6pm, Koha/Dana Contact: Maureen 021 0231 8008.

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 & Pilates — Pono Lodge 41

Hokianga Road, Dargaville. Tuesday 9.30am Hatha

Yoga with Anisha classes $20. Tuesday 11.45am & Wednesday 5.30pm Pilates with Diann classes $15. All classes last approx 1 hour. Please contact Yoga

Anisha 021 301 860, Pilates Diann 027 216 2577.

Practising Presence — Mondays 6–7pm Coronation Hall, Te Kopuru. Led moving and sitting meditations. Remaining in the present moment is the key to inner peace but it takes practice! Exchange: $10 or what you can afford. Maureen 021 0231 8008. www. bringbalance.co.nz.

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 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 Tue 2.45pm–4pm, Wed 10am–noon and Sunday 3pm–4pm. Books for all ages, and jigsaw puzzles, DVDs, CDs and magazines available. All welcome.

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.

Twilight Golf Northern Wairoa Golf Club — every Thursday 4–6pm. Dinner available, Prizes and raffles. All Welcome.

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.

PUZZLE TIME

63 Lustrous fabric (4)

64 Solution (6)

65 Enervate (3)

66 Insignificant (10)

68 Went quickly (6)

69 Save from danger (6)

71 Game bird (9)

76 Putting in position (6)

77 Faculty member (9)

79 Entail (7)

81 Feline (3)

(9)

22 Arcs (6)

27

39

44 Last (5)

45

50 Supposing (2)

51 Canal (8)

55 Unit of heat (5)

58 Film machine (9)

59 Curtain rail cover (6)

60 Pulling ahead (7)

61 Age (3)

84 Preliminary sketch (5)

85 Cleared of blame or suspicion (10)

86 Creature (5)

87 Correct (5)

88 Scarce (4,2,3,6)

89 Theatre attendant (5)

DOWN

2 Natural fabric (6)

3 Egg-shaped (5)

5 Responsibility (4)

6 Lime orb (anag)(7)

7 Group of words (6)

8 Smell (5)

9 Mild, of weather (7)

10 Tots up (4)

11 In-crowd (6)

12 Regulations (5)

13 Lower than (7)

14 Fissure (7)

18 Retreat (10)

23 Curse (5)

24 Bodily aperture (7)

26 Covered for loss (7)

27 Large dog (7)

29 Multicoloured arch (7)

30 Shock (6)

31 Nimble (5)

32 Japanese hostess (6)

34 Self-satisfied (4)

36 Haggard (5)

38 Squalid (5)

40 Delight (4)

45 Broods (5)

46 Ribbonlike pasta strips (7)

47 Portent (4)

48 Aim (6)

49 Measuring device (5)

50 Stalemate (7)

52 Established customs (10)

53 Reverberating (7)

54 Historical records (6)

55 Fishing boat (7)

56 Run off to marry (5)

57 Penny-pinching (4)

62 Ornamental quartz (5)

67 Begin again (7)

68 Throw away (7)

70 Camel train (7)

72 Alligator pear (7)

73 Sufficient (6)

74 Enquiring (6)

75 Tree-lined street (6)

76 Actor’s platform (5)

78 Small bird (5)

80 Follows orders (5)

82 Steer clear of (4)

83 Witnessed (4)

Sudoku

369

ACROSS: 1 Stout, 4 Politics, 9 Cosset, 14 China, 15 Tricks of the trade, 17 Sheer, 18 Ego, 19 Warrior, 20 Imprudent, 21 Summit, 24 Crescendo, 25 Spying, 26 Blames, 29

Ungracious, 31 Awe, 32 Sultan, 33 Plus, 35 Let, 37 Vein, 39 Endowment, 40 Tangerine, 41 Erode, 42 Currency, 47 Upstream, 51 Sniff, 55 Speedboat, 56 Lunchtime, 58 Says, 59 Goo, 60 Slip, 61 Quotas, 62 Rye, 63 Nail polish, 66 Dogged, 67 Forbid, 69 Reinstate, 72 Shroud, 73 Dissipate, 75 Sketchy, 77 Ink, 80 Lurid, 81 Keep it under wraps, 82 Elegy, 83 Bolted, 84 Pondered, 85 Sways.

DOWN: 2 Tarpaulin, 3 Ulcer, 5 Oafs, 6 Inhuman, 7 Interrogated, 8 Stand, 9 Cleanly, 10 Sash, 11 Even up, 12 Rivet, 13 Favours, 14 Crumple, 16 Smokescreen, 22 Accord, 23 Inflate, 24 Coroner, 25 Svelte, 27 Malaise, 28 Catnap, 30 Sewn, 32 Stool, 34 Steam, 36 Rest, 38 Emu, 42 Costs, 43 Reeling, 44 Eddy, 45 Crocus, 46 Wings, 48 Sleepwalker, 49 Resolve, 50 Any, 51 Station, 52 Florid, 53 Interruption, 54 Thin, 57 Iciest, 64 Slap-happy, 65 Merrily, 66 Divides, 68 Blinked, 70 Intrude, 71 Quarto, 72 Skeet, 74 Sheep, 76 Threw, 78 Edit, 79 Idle. 5x5

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

Jumbo crossword

FOR SALE

3.6 ALUMINIUM boat & trailer with 15hp outboard PLUS 4.47 Fryan boat & trailer. Phone 021 824 3109.

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

PLYWOOD 3.0M long, 12mm UT and H3.2. Scooters Plywood 09 438 6565.

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

TOP SOIL, conditioned top quality. 100% suitable for vege gardens or new lawns. $85 per m³ onto your trailer, or truck deliveries available for larger orders. Phone 021 132 4107 or 09 439 5141.

TOYOTA HILUX 1999 2.7p. Cab with grille, new WOF & rego. $4,500. Phone 021 0832 1139.

VEHICLE FOR SALE - 2007 Audi A3 Turbo. Cream leather upholstery. Regularly serviced. 125,000km. Excellent condition. Phone Steve 027 777 7679.

CHURCH NOTICES

TE KOROWAI O IHU KARAITI MINISTRIES at the Church of the Nazarene, 4 Grey Street, Dargaville. A church service is held every Sunday at 11am. Maranga Mai is Bible studies for people wanting to know the Lord more, who they are and their purpose. It is every Wednesday at 10.30am. Legacy and Man Up is every Wednesday from 6.30pm–8.30pm. Contact 021 136 5253 or tekorowaiministries@gmail.com. Celebrate Recovery is on Thursdays 6pm–8.30pm. Contact Gwen on 021 103 9065.

AUTUMN PLANTING 5,000+ hedging, shelter and landscaping trees from $1–$8. White & red bottlebrush. Tenex flax

PETS

PET DOORS — Cat Doors, Dog Doors for Glass or Timber — supplied and installed. Phone 027 275 0918 or 09 439 6458 Kevin Sowter or visit my website: windowanddoors.co.nz — Window & Door Services Ltd.

PROPERTY MAINTENANCE

GARDEN CLEAN-UPS. Garden got our of control? Estate clean-up or selling your property. We do quotes for garden clean-up and rubbish and vegetation removal. Contact

for a quote on 021 0218 1111.

BOBCAT, TRUCK & EXCAVATOR

HIRE

DRIVEWAYS RACEWAYS SITEWORKS

METAL SUPPLIES

ASPHALT WORKS POST HOLE BORING ROLLER COMPACTOR

FREE QUOTES

EST. 1992

021 153 5000 PHONE ROY

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

boundary plus … Call Jeff 027 476 5458, $9+gst.

FIREWOOD FOR SALE

FIREWOOD — dry hot mix $110/m³, delivered free to Dargaville & surrounding areas. Phone or txt Henry 021 734 906.

FLATMATE WANTED, to board with other female, single, quiet, working professional. Non-smoker preferred. Please contact 021 193 4582.

GRAZING

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

GRAZING WANTED & grazing wanted for winter cows. Phone 022 376 5164.

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

TRADE & 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.

ROOFING REPAIRS. Local to Dargaville area. Phone 027 273 8935.

PUBLIC NOTICES

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

Walkers have spoken “I like the “getting out and going for a walk” aspect. Gets me outside and do a little physical activity”

WALKERS WANTED

•

No experience necessary - really!

•

•

•

NOW! Please visit: reach.nz/walker-signup

WORK WANTED

HANDYMAN /BUILDER, has built almost everything in long building career, now looking for smaller jobs in Maungaturoto area and surrounds. Phone Graeme 021 775 943.

THERE 4-YOU Dargaville. Let me do the grunt work! Lawn mowing, driving, moving furniture, rubbish removal & much more. Phone: Shayne 027 433 7326.

CHESS CLUB, Dargaville. Wednesdays 6:30pm at the Catholic Church Hall. Phone Stephen 09 439 8819., Dargaville. Wednesdays

PUBLIC NOTICES

DEATH NOTICES

SELKIRK, Miriam Kuia (nee METE)

Loving wife of Donald and Mum to Floyd and Angie. Beautiful Nan to Paxton, Huxley and Juliana. Miriam rested at home and Parirau Marae before being returned home to Waihaua Marae for burial at Te Paeti Urupa, Arapaoa.

TE KOPURU SCHOOL BOARD CASUAL VACANCY FOR A PARENT REPRESENTATIVE

Result of recent Pouto School Bi-Election

I hereby declare Rodney Cotton duly elected to Pouto School Board of Trustees, effective 4 March 2024.

AGM

Ngapaea Edna Manukau Whanau Trust 1pm Saturday 6th April 2024 at 90 Karakanui Road

Tinopai

Enquiries: 027 200 0463

TSUNAMI SIREN TESTING

Northland’s network of tsunami sirens in coastal communities will be tested on Sunday 7 April 2024

T h e s i r e n s w i l l s o u n d a t 1 0 a m f o r 1 0 m i n u t e s a n d 1 0 3 0 a m f o r 3 0 s e c o n d s

A casual vacancy has occurred on the school board for an elected parent representative. The board has decided to fill the vacancy by selection. If 10% or more of eligible voters on the school roll ask the board, within 28 days of this notice being published, to hold a byelection to fill the vacancy, then a by-election will be held. Request for a by-election should be sent to:

Presiding Member (Craig Gillatt)

Te Kopuru School Board of Trustees PO Box 20

Te Kopuru School by: 3rd April 2024

Moe mai, moe mai, moe mai e Miriam.

PUBLIC NOTICES

WAYNE & ANNETTE

Ph 09 439 2020

For fur ther information, go to www.nrc.govt.nz/tsunamiwarnings

Public notice

(Section 101, Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act 2012)

notice in writing of the objection with the Secretary of the District Licensing Committee, Private Bag 1001, Dargaville 0340.

No objection to the issue of a licence may be made in relation to a matter other than a matter specified in section 105(1) of the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act 2012.

This is the second publication of this notice. The first was published on the 5 March 2024.

Kaipara AGM Te Houhanga Urupa 11am Sunday 17th March 2024 at Te Houhanga Marae Station Road, Dargaville To be followed by a shared lunch Evenings: 09 429 8282

DECISION BY KAIPARA DISTRICT COUNCIL ON PRIVATE PLAN CHANGE 82 - MOONLIGHT HEIGHTS TO THE OPERATIVE KAIPARA DISTRICT PLAN

Kaipara District Council gives notice that it has, based on recommendations by the Hearing Panel, made its decision at the Council Meeting on 28 February 2024 to approve the Private Plan Change 82 application.

The purpose of the private plan change is:

• To rezone 39.2ha of land at Awakino Road, from Rural Zone to Residential Zone, including consequential amendments to the Kaipara District Plan (KDP) Maps; and

• To make any necessary consequential amendments to the KDP provisions

The decision on the private plan change can be found:

1. On this webpage: www.kaipara.govt.nz/moonlightheights (then click on Process for Review and scroll to the bottom of the page) or

2. Kaipara District Council Office at 32 Hokianga Road, Dargaville or

3. Kaipara District Council Office at 6 Molesworth Drive, Mangawhai or

4. Via computer access to the webpage above at any public library in Kaipara that has computers available for public use.

The Notice of the Decision has been served on every person who submitted to the private plan change and those parties entitled to lodge an appeal to the Environmental Court must lodge their appeal within 30 working days of receipt of the decision. This notice is given pursuant to Clause 10 of the First Schedule of the Resource Management Act 1991.

Authorised by J E Marris Chief Executive

Visit our website kaiparalifestyler.co.nz

Introducing our new Sales Team Members

Kathy Fray

Dargaville Office

For three decades Kathy has been involved in the “Property Game” having personally done numerous property sales and purchases holds and trades renovations and new builds from apartments to standalone suburban residential to lifestyle blocks and almost everything in-between Kathy has vast first hand experience in getting the job done, whether it is helping sales get over the line or supporting the buying process

As a 24/7 on-call Midwife and international maternity advisor in her “prior life” we say “If thousands trusted Kathy to safely bring life into this world, you sure can trust her with your biggest financial asset”!

“Kathy is a fantastic networker

She has a natural ability to connect people and get people’s needs met This translates remarkably well in the property market – she found me the perfect listing even though I didn’t even know I was looking for it!”

Jane du Preez

Contact Kathy today to join one of her Free 90-min Property Information Seminars

M 027-4364750

E kathy@fnkaipara.co.nz

FB https://www.facebook.com/ Kathyfrayfirstnational

IG https://www instagram com/ kathyfray firstnational

Nicole Williams

Maungaturoto Office

Nicole will be well known to many of you as she has been living in the Kaipara area for over 18 years and had a second hand retail business for 16 years with the last 11 years being located in Maungaturoto. Nicole has always showed a strong interest in real estate and has recently gained her Real Estate License. Nicole lives on a lifestyle property with her husband and daughter. She is personally interested in renovation, staging and likes to take her downtime out on the whenever she can. Nicole also likes to volu any spare time to community and school e where possible

Although new to real estate Nicole will brin her excellent communication and negotia staging with an eye for detail, a good knowledge of the local area and a passio for getting positive results Nicole will bring a professional but down to earth approac to all your real estate needs. Whether buying or selling she can help you with an easy, stress free transition from or into your next property.

So don't delay, call Nicole today.

M 0211 251 576

E nicole@fnkaipara co nz

https://www facebook com/ nicolewilliamsfirstnational

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