Kaipara Lifestyler, March 5th 2024

Sun shines on field days

by Andy Bryenton

Northland Field Days welcomed in the crowds for 2024, with plenty of new farming innovations alongside sports and games, carnival rides for the children, street cuisine and food trucks, and good weather for all three days of festivities.

“We have had a very successful 2024 Northland Field Days,” says event spokesperson Luciana Schwarz. “We had just under 19,000 visitors across the three days, and everything went well.”

A packed schedule of exhibitors awaited those thousands of guests, some of whom came back for multiple visits to the big site just north of Dargaville. More than 300 businesses, groups and organisations pitched their marquees and rolled in a fleet of utes, bikes, ATVs and tractors to meet the public. Included in this number for the first time in many years was one of the Northland Rescue Helicopter organisation’s big Sikorsky choppers, helping to raise funds for future rescue missions.

As usual, awards were given to those groups and businesses who made an

outstanding effort to present their site.

The best new site award went to Marsden Metals, who championed the cause of recycling, bringing out their big neongreen machines to promote a circular resource economy.

The Northland Regional Council’s plan to serve up wild venison bruschetta with red onion jam and horopito creme fraiche hit the spot, with assistance from levelfour cookery students at NorthTec, and earned them the best outdoor site award.

Meanwhile the best indoor site prize went to the pest-eradication innovators from Trapinator, giving the three top sites an environmental theme, all about controlling introduced species and recycling for the future.

The February 26 closure of the Brynderwyn Hills road had little to no

remains Northland’s largest.

“People are probably used to it as I think it’s the second time around we’re having the show when the Brynderwyns are closed,” said Luciana.

Instead of proving an impediment to the field days, the diversion around the major road repairs sparked a tourism campaign supported by Northland Inc and local councils, with the slogan ‘it’s Northland time’.

If the success of Northland Field Days, and the number of visitors who came north to witness the three-day celebration is an indication, that slogan may be entirely accurate. Next up for the field days site is a major hot rod and motorcycle show, to be hosted on March 16. ¢

p Field Days patrons enjoyed three days of late-summer sunshine, as thousands flocked to take in the region’s biggest outdoor event impact on the big event, which

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

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Postal Address: PO Box 474, Dargaville Physical Address: 107 River Road, Dargaville

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10,510 copies, distributed on Tuesday to every residential and rural home throughout the district including Dargaville, Ruawai, Paparoa, Matakohe, Maungaturoto, Kaiwaka, Mangawhai and Wellsford.

p Dargaville High School students Lily Haywood, Kayla Godfrey and Allysa Ledingham joined their artistic forces to paint the Good Life Store’s window. The trio work for the shop. “We gave them a brief and a budget, and they came up with a design,” said owner Helen Cairns. “It was an opportunity to show their artistic prowess as art leaders of the school. We got a merit award for their fabulous efforts.”

p Andrew Dalley travelled north from the Bay of Plenty to race his new, custom-built v-twin lawn mower against a tough field of contenders at last week’s Northland Field Days. The high-speed mower racer was also the designer and fabricator of this 28-horsepower monster. It has no blades underneath but delivers all its power to the turf for pure fun.

p “Dargaville Lions have done it again by supporting us with another generous donation,” says Northland Rescue Helicopter spokesman Steve MacMillan after life member Ron Morgan “popped into the base to thank our awesome crews and hand over a cheque of $3,000 in their latest gesture of support. Dargaville Lions have supported us countless times over the years with donations, helping out with fundraising efforts or taking charge of the many BBQ breakfasts and lunches involving our friends at MoreFM Northland when we conducted our annual funding appeal.”

Roading maintenance performance slammed

u by Andy Bryenton

The first report to the Kaipara District Council by an engineer appointed to review the performance of roading repair and maintenance providers has opened with a scathing assessment and a reputational warning.

“The on-road per formance of Kaipara District Council’s road maintenance delivery by Ventia and the Northland Transportation Alliance (NTA) is having a negative impact on all three parties’ credibility and reputation,” said Kingston Infrastructure director and civil engineer Blair King.

“Higher than tolerated drainage and pavement defects on the unsealed network, potholes and slumps on approaches to single lane bridges, what appears to be ‘do-nothing’ rather than ‘do-minimum’ for small dropouts and underslips or deeply scoured drains; it is all affecting residents’ confidence in receiving value for money.”

Blair King has been engaged as Engineer to the Contract to review the operations and maintenance delivery of Kaipara’s roads by Northland Transportation Alliance (NTA) and contractors.

“This appointment is in response to elected members’ expectation that there is a positive change in delivery,” said KDC infrastructure manager Anin Nama.

Kaipara District Council’s road maintenance works are provided by Ventia. Ventia’s contract term ends June 30 2024, and elected members are presently reviewing an extension of the contract for a further year to June 30 2025.

“It really highlights and confirms matters which elected members have been raising for some time,” said councillor Larsen.

“I feel like we are getting somewhere after a long time with the direction we need to take,” said mayor Craig Jepson. “It’s so important with the $45 million we spend on our roads to get the best value for money.” ¢

Rates specifics tabled

u by Andy Bryenton

The Kaipara District Council has produced more detailed figures on rates, charting potential changes for different parts of the district and listing different types of property with varying values for this week’s briefing.

Their calculations show that, rather than a universal 18% upward change, rates rises span a spectrum. Council data modelling indicates, for example, that a home in Dargaville with a land value of 285,000 could incur a 42.1% increase this year, amounting to an extra $1,083. By comparison, this same modelling of sample properties shows that lifestyle block owners in Mangawhai and Maungatūroto will pay lower rates, with some looking at a bill that’s up to $311 cheaper.

The council predicts a $58 million rates take for 2025, and the figures presented as part of this week’s briefing take into account targeted rates and the universal annual charge, stormwater and wastewater. Northland Regional Council rates are not included.

Of the major towns, only Baylys Beach, Kaiwaka and Glinks Gully are below an approximate 18% rise. Other towns, such as Dargaville, central Maungatūroto, Ruawai and Paparoa will see bigger increases. Dargaville industrial land could be hit hard, too, with a 41% rates rise modelled.

One driver of higher residential rates is the homogenised wastewater charge. It comes to $1,439 for every house in Kaipara connected to a sewer system, including, controversially, Te Kōpuru, where residents have opined that their wastewater system is debt-free and low maintenance compared to larger municipal schemes.

A full list of sample properties which may help you calculate your forthcoming new rates bill is available at kaipara.govt. nz as a document attachment found by clicking on ‘council meetings’ and then selecting this week’s council briefing from the calendar, which is displayed. ¢

p A critical report on the quality of roading outcomes led to vigorous debate around the council table last week

p Rates information from the draft Long Term Plan shows higher than expected rises for a majority of residential properties; the LTP will be open for public submissions in April

u by

Amy Fifita

A place for play Window winners share the fun

Te Kōpuru Playcentre will host an open week to welcome new families to the centre on Tuesday, March 5 and Thursday, March 7, from 9am–12.30pm.

“For such a small village, Te Kōpuru Playcentre is well appointed with the biggest playground available for our tamariki nearby. The past few years, open weeks have been a bit of a failure due to Covid,” said secretary Alyse Brenstrum.

The nationwide week showcases to parents Playcentre’s child-focussed programme and the rich variety of play, resources and experiences available. The centres are designed to be a safe and positive environment for tamariki.

“The messy play that we do that is not always available to children at home — slime, bubbles, finger painting, gloop and playdough. We also do arts and crafts every session.

“A real highlight last year was the installation of our bike track and new bikes purchased with a Rabobank grant. It is always super busy with toy cars, trikes, balance bikes and scooters. It will be a treat to share with new whānau.”

Alyse says she would love for more families to attend to enjoy the space and that tamariki won’t want to leave at the end of the session.

“We’re grateful for our sponsors Rabobank, Ventia, Kaipara District Council and Terry and Heather Brenstrum for the donation of the wood chips. They were made from the trees that fell at our farm during the cyclone,” says Alyse.

Te Kōpuru Playcentre is located at 3 Norton Street. There are other Kaipara centres in Mamaranui, Dargaville, Paparoa, Maungatūroto and Kaiwaka. ¢

u by Andy Bryenton

A competition to dress Dargaville windows to celebrate Northland Field Days has seen 17 creative and historic displays vie for the top prize.

Sue Taylor issued the challenge to Dargaville’s business owners, gathering a range of prizes donated by like-minded locals. Her aim, she says, was to foster some civic pride and have a little bit of fun.

“I wanted to acknowledge the Northland Field Days and show how Dargaville appreciates our rural heritage and connections,” says Sue. “We had a great response, and people put in a lot of effort to make their windows look original and interesting.”

Judges Alison Shrigley and Allie Fry came from Whangārei to make an impartial assessment, and they picked Ignite Your Fitness as the winner of the closely contested competition. The Dargaville Book Exchange and Gifts came in second, while the Dargaville Sewing and Curtain Centre took the bronze, with Dargaville’s SPCA Shop in fourth place.

Ignite Your Fitness also took home the coveted people’s choice award, voted for by local citizens, for their creative window

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The emphasis at the clinic is on making sure women have as much information as possible about their own health on which to base their decisions as to the type of treatment that is best for them.

Dr. Rachel Moss, the specialist gynaecologist, can see you to make a thorough gynaecological assessment and discuss options for treatment.

A GP referral can be helpful but is not essential.

display, which featured miniature farm scenes, a tiny forest, native birds and reptiles, and gumboots planted with flax and flowers. Farming-related jokes and activities made the display interactive. Prizes were donated by Dargaville Cottage Accommodation, D Town Indian Fusion Restaurant, Associates Hair, Dargaville Boarding House Antiques, Cheryl Carmichael, Snazzi Gifts, and a special voters prize of six tickets to the Northland Field Days, won by Dean Southey. ¢

p Alyse says her son Sebastian’s (pictured) favourite area is the carpentry area at the centre

their prize by Sue Taylor after crafting a creative window display in celebration of Northland Field Days

Have your say on park plan

u by Andy Bryenton

Mangawhai Community Park serves as a recreational hub, nationally significant sports facility, cultural and historical centre and emergency services base; now, its future is set for public consultation.

A master plan for the park’s development, encompassing the Mangawhai Activity Zone, fire station, museum, historic village, ambulance base and cycle trails, has been developed during the past months by the Kaipara District Council and the park’s governing committee.

A final change to the plan was required, and an extraordinary meeting of the committee confirmed that commercial activities could indeed take place within the park precinct, supporting not-forprofit ventures such as MAZ and the museum.

‘Historically, commercial aspects of not-for-profit ventures have been permitted as they contribute to some of the groups being self-sustaining,’ read the amendment.

‘Longer term commercial options that may provide necessary and meaningful contributions to the infrastructure or economic development of the community may be considered by the council.’

The complete park master plan spans upgrades to tracks, sporting facilities and car parks, protection of native forest areas and significant trees, protection and

restoration of historic places within the park, and much more. The public will be allowed to have their say by viewing the plan online at kaipara.govt.nz, making a written submission between today and May 6 or speaking in person at a hearing on May 21.

The KDC decided the park committee should serve as the hearing panel during this consultation process. Councillor Mike Howard will chair, supported by Mary-Anne Boyd, Daniel Hawes, Philip Johnson, and councillors Ron Manderson and Rachael Williams. ¢

Surf lifesavers seek solution

u by Andy Bryenton

A landslide more than a year old remains a major impediment to the reconstruction of the Mangawhai surf lifesaving clubrooms and patrol base, and a fix is not in the forthcoming Long Term Plan.

The first of three petitioners on the subject recounted a tense moment during a recent successful rescue.

“We scrambled what gear we could, and luckily, we were able to get out there in time,” said volunteer surf lifesaver Isaac Powell.

“Time delay is key. We need to get out there as fast as we can to save someone who is drowning or in a bad situation. After this event, I was not happy. Someone could die due to us being in temporary accommodation.”

Mr Powell noted that the club is losing members for lack of facilities and that the clubhouse gave better views to patrolling surf lifesavers from its extensive deck.

When asked by councillor Mark Vincent if he had a solution to the problem, Mr Powell’s position was simple.

“We need the slip removed. I know you struggle for funding and that we need to keep costs down, but I can see a problem.”

Zac Franich, Surf Life Saving Northern Region general manager, also spoke to the mayor and council about his concerns. He highlighted the 232 rescues undertaken at Mangawhai

Heads since 2014. He also asked for council assistance in speeding up the process of rebuilding.

Councillor Larsen enquired as to the progress of an application by the surf lifesavers to the government for rebuild costs. Mr Franich reported that a $5 million sum has been discussed with the extreme weather event relief fund, but that this is only for the building. ¢

p Recent citizens award recipient Colin Gallagher was chair of the Mangawhai Activity Zone trust for 12 years; now, everyone can have their say about the future of the Mangawhai park

Local voice shouts loud Capitalising on closure

u by Andy Bryenton

Dargaville’s Big River FM has had a change of frequency, now coming through on 88 FM after the need to switch transmitters.

The new spot on the dial will mean that the local station continues its quarter-century mission to give Dargaville a voice on the airwaves, returning the station to broadcast as usual status.

“With thanks to Mike Bakulich for all his work and to Lyn Preston, the former manager of the station, we have placed a low-powered transmitter and aerials at a house Lyn owns, just on the other side of Rowland Road, from where our previous transmitter was sited,” says radio station board member Phil Godfrey.

The new transmitter means Big River is again coming through loud and clear for Dargaville, following the retirement of the previous Rowland Road transmission aerial. Many local groups offered their help or a place to situate the new radio infrastructure, and the board of Big River wish to thank all of them for their community spirit.

Despite not having the power of a big transmitter, such as those which occupy hilltop sites around New Zealand’s big cities, Phil reports that Big River’s new FM frequency was coming through with clarity on his car radio, 10 kilometres from the centre of town.

Those seeking to tune in to 88 FM are advised that they might need to use a

radio with an aerial in some places, as buildings and trees can blur the signal. It’s also possible to live stream Big River FM on your computer or digital device, by visiting radio-stations.co.nz/big-riverfm-986. ¢

u by Paul Campbell

The Kauri Museum at Matakohe is not standing idly by as the Brynderwyn closure strangles traffic into Northland and has come up with a fundraising plan.

“I hope people realise that while the Brynderwyn route is shut, the detour at Paparoa puts motorists within a seven-minute drive of the Kauri Museum and our wonderful cafe. In reality, that puts next to no additional time on your trip,” says museum director Dr Jason Smith.

“By doing so, they will be contributing vital funds to the Northland Rescue Helicopter service. Children can tour the museum with a gold coin donation throughout the multi-week Brynderwyn closure, with all money raised being gifted to the service.

“As a charitable trust ourselves, I believe it is important to help other notable charitable trusts in Northland, particularly in tough times. My father had his life saved by a rescue helicopter in 2000, so I know the positive outcome services like this can provide. My logic in doing this fundraiser is to never let a good crisis go to waste.”

“The State Highway One detour actually brings the main traffic flow

20km closer to the Kauri Museum than normal in the same place it’s been for the last 62 years, now, more than ever, safely off to the side of the troublesome and constantly inconvenient Brynderwyns.”

He adds that a coachload of cruise ship visitors look likely to cancel their March 7 visit to the museum because they can’t get from Northport to Matakohe with the Brynderwyns closed, the only tourism experience in Northland to be affected in this way. ¢

and

p Dedicated radio DJ and supporter of Big River FM Phil Godfrey has been instrumental in establishing a new transmitter for the station

p From left: Northland rescue chopper ambassador John Markby, Northland MP Grant McCallum, Dr Jason Smith, ambassador Chris Fife and NEST’s Steve Macmillan and Briar Edwards

News service spreads its wings

u by Paul Campbell

A new Māori media news service has been launched across Northland, with three groups joining forces to deliver radio and online streaming networks, including iwi media partner social media platforms.

Ngāti Hine FM station manager Erana Fenton from Tinopai says there has long been a need for a strong and balanced Māori perspective in New Zealand, but too often that has been lacking or ignored.

“Everything that I have grown up with and learnt, particularly with the likes of Mana Māori Media and Māori radio, has been about giving a sound and reasonable voice to Māoridom. It has been my lifeblood for decades,” says Erana. The media collaboration is called ‘te kūkupa’, a taonga renowned as a messenger and is also known as the kererū, kūkū or wood pigeon.

have a significant impact in telling the stories of our people.”

Tangowahine School offers education with more one-on-one opportunities with children and is experiencing a refresh to its look and values.

“I began my principalship in term four last year. I went here as a student from five years old to intermediate school age because I lived over the hill and learnt how to swim in the school pool. My dad volunteered as a school caretaker here,” said principal George Pickering.

Since principal Pickering has led the school, they have created some new school values in alignment with the Ministry of Education’s strategic goals. The values also represent the new school houses.

“Like the kūkupa and the noisy beat of its wings, our collaboration aims to deliver a distinctive sound to create a news service that resonates with the heartbeat of our communities from the Brynderwyns and pockets of Kaipara right through to Hokianga and Muriwhenua.

“The physical and community footprint we cover is huge. So I am confident we will grow an even more loyal following and

Erana says the regional news team is committed to high-quality, authentic, impartial, unpretentious journalism and responsible reporting but with a Te Tai Tokerau twist.

“We will be providing regular updates to our audiences as we launch new content and are also on the lookout for local talent to be part of our regional media internships.” ¢

“Student voice is important so when we brainstormed the new values, they drew what they looked like so they are more than just words. I want the values to be implemented in everything and to bring the love back to the school.”

“Manaakitanga is connected to the Wairoa River, whanaungatanga, an old school value is represented by Maungaru and whakamana, which is demonstrated by Tutamoe.”

One of George’s goals is to increase the roll from 10 to 26 students, and she is currently in the process of beautifying the grounds.

“We have an orchard, and on Mondays, volunteers visit to take cooking, gardening and art groups. I have high expectations and desire them to do well so they can find something they’re good at. I want students to be challenged to do the best that they can.”

To find out more or enrol your child, contact George at principal@tws.school. nz or call 09 439 7032. ¢

p Members of te kūkupa from back left: Hemi Baker, Gideon Porter, Lahni Wharerau, Cassidy Makiha and Amber Smith.Front, from left: Raewynne Rice, Erana Fenton, Ani Makiha and Ngareta Tuiloma

p The new school mural is almost complete — it represents the school’s values and local landmarks

Preparing for new life Walkers and cyclists welcomed

u by Amy Fifita

Te Hā Oranga is hosting the Ngā Taonga Tuku Iho Hapū Wānanga to educate pregnant women about traditional birthing methods and current education.

“Each pregnancy is different because the baby is different. I love seeing families connect. We guide them and offer more options they sometimes don’t know about,” said registered nurse Amy Melville.

The two-day wānanga educates pregnant women about traditional and modern knowledge. Expectant parents will be given muka ties (a flax alternative to umbilical cord clamps), oriori (lullaby), taonga puoro (clay instrument) and mirimiri (massage).

“It is based on the te ao Māori view of creation. We go through six stages, doing three each day. We are connecting our people with traditional birthing practices and talking about what our parents and grandparents did,” said enrolled nurse Virginia Wati.

“We empower our mums to make their own decisions for their journey. We teach conversationally. I enjoy seeing the lightbulb moments of mothers wanting to apply what they have learned and establish relationships with the families for future service.”

Participants will also learn current education about smoking and alcohol while pregnant, Sudden Unexpected Death in Infancy, breastfeeding and rongoā (medicine).

This year’s programmes are on March 21–22, May 16–17, July 18–19 and November 21–22. To register, visit facebook.com/tehaoranga or phone 0800 698 342 and ask for Amy or Virginia. ¢

u by Andy Bryenton

A plan to make Northland a world-class walking and cycling destination for tourists has been launched by a consortium of major organisations, with a Kaipara personality at the helm.

Amanda Bennett was picked for the role leading the freshly formed Northland Regional Trails Project after her success in bringing stage one of the Kaipara Kaihu Valley Trail to completion.

The project, which is supported by regional and local councils, The New Zealand Transport Agency, the Department of Conservation, Northland Inc and the Outdoor Access Commission, aims to take the region’s existing cycling and walking trails strategy, upgrade it and plan for the future.

“With the Northland Te Tai Tokerau region growing at 2.5% each year, investing in rural infrastructure, including walking and cycling trails, is crucial for our region’s social, economic, environmental and cultural development,” says Ms Bennett.

“It is important that action is now taken to implement outcomes from the 2018 report which are still relevant. No more reports are required; we just need to make it happen.”

Developing, promoting and linking these assets will help Northland and

Kaipara share in a cycling and walking tourism industry estimated to be above the $1 billion mark by 2022.

As part of engaging the community, Ms Bennett aims to facilitate hui in each local council area in late March and early April. Interested participants can register by contacting Amanda Bennett at northlandregionaltrails@gmail.com. ¢

SHOP LOCAL – SUPPORT LOCAL

p Nurses Virginia Wati and Amy Melville are cofacilitating the Ngā Taonga Tuku Iho Hapū Wānanga to help offer tradition and refreshed knowledge to pregnant mothers

p Amanda Bennett has been picked for a top role in advocating cycling and walking amenities across the north

Preserving historic hospital

u by Andy Bryenton

The trust looking after the Te Kōpuru historic hospital site is raising funds with the sale of art, antiques and homewares, with proceeds helping toward its upkeep.

The trust has maintained the old hospital for many years. It uses the space afforded by the Edwardian-era buildings to help those with nowhere else to stay and keeps up to date with council rates, bills and maintenance to avoid the site being lost to deterioration.

The hospital was situated in Te Kōpuru rather than Dargaville or Mangawhare due to the population of the riverside towns at the time. In 1899, when the Hobson County Council met to discuss a hospital for western Kaipara, Dargaville was smaller in size than its neighbours to the south but growing. Joseph Dargaville and his fellow prominent citizen Alfred Harding both promised land for a medical facility.

However, it was eventually the timber workers’ union that decided the matter. They were well represented among the shipwrights, carpenters and sawmillers of Te Kōpuru, which at the time boasted some 3,000 citizens. William Wordsworth, a local landowner, agreed to sell the

•

present hospital grounds to the county clerk for £120, a large sum at the time. However, Mr Wordsworth was of a generous nature, and upon payment he donated the entire sum to the hospital.

Building was swift, with timber and skilled workers aplenty, and the hospital opened on November 23, 1903. It would become a famous teaching hospital and known for its maternity ward, where many local people were born.

To help preserve the hospital, the governing trust has organised a sale of art, glassware, antiquities and other items, spanning five large rooms and halls in the central building of the hospital. The grandson of Mr William Wordsworth, the man who donated a small fortune to see the hospital built, shared a little of the hospital’s history.

On Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, locals can take an opportunity to visit this historic place, browse among a surprising and varied collection of items to find a treasure and help keep a Te Kōpuru landmark alive. ¢

Business and Home IT Support

Home Support including:

forward approach

p Wes Wordsworth, grandson of hospital benefactor William Wordsworth, is pleased to acknowledge the trust in their efforts

Andy Bryenton

The recommendations of a panel of commissioners have been made public, and last week, the Kaipara District Council gave the green light for the residential development at Moonlight Heights, Dargaville, to go ahead.

The panel was made up of independent commissioners Dr Lee Beattie and Melean Absolum, alongside Kaipara deputy mayor Jonathan Larsen.

“The hearing panel considered the request, the submissions received, and the report prepared by officers for the hearing. The hearing panel also considered legal submissions and the evidence presented during the hearing and the applicant’s closing legal submissions,” said KDC’s Michael Day.

The panel made some recom mendations to slightly alter plans for the development of the hilltop site, which lies at the end of Awakino Road, beyond the Dargaville Hospital precinct. In earlier times it was used as an airfield. The Moonlight Heights proposal would see the land transformed into residential housing.

A northern access road connection to the subdivision’s main loop road was recommended, increasing the access points to Moonlight Heights from Awakino Road from two to three. A ‘green amenity street’ throughway is also recommended, bisecting the loop road and allowing easier access for road-borne service vehicles. Also discussed were a shared path connection to Kauri Court, footpath upgrades along Awakino Road and the provision of a pedestrian crossing.

The next stage following this is public notification, with a 30-day window of opportunity for members of the public to lodge appeals with the environment court. Moonlight Heights is one of two major proposed residential subdivisions for Dargaville, which has recently seen residential land valuations rise by

p The

the northwestern

of Awakino Road more than 70 per cent on the back of strong demand. ¢

proposed Moonlight Heights development at

Tough decision sees rally postponed

u by Andy Bryenton

Dargaville’s biggest-ever sporting event has been postponed this week after a hard but necessary decision was made by organisers following devastating circumstances which unfolded in Paparoa.

The Arcadia Road Rally Sprint event in late February saw the tragic passing of young rally driver Brooklyn Horan and his respected codriver Tyson Jemmett. The loss resonated through the tight-knit rally racing community.

In a sport where officials and race organisational staff have a close relationship with drivers and co-drivers, this has been a profoundly sad occurrence, says Ventia Rally of Dargaville Tunatahi chair Marty Rosetenburg.

“We want to show respect for the families to our friends, the drivers and all those involved,” he says. “Therefore, the difficult decision was made to postpone the event from March 9 to allow an appropriate time of grieving and remembrance.”

As a

Those involved with planning and strategising this large event have been very understanding, says Mr Rosestenburg. It’s now his task to reschedule, fitting in with the wider Northland rally championship calendar to deliver a day of racing at

Dargaville’s

a slightly later date. At present, this seems certain to be in late autumn, considering public holidays, other race meetings and the availability of teams and supporting staff.

MotorSport New Zealand offered support to all those involved with the Arcadia Road incident.

“The whole motorsport community will be understandably shocked and upset by

this terrible tragedy,” said MSNZ president Wayne Christie.

Further information on the new dates for the Ventia Rally of Dargaville Tunatahi will be forthcoming as organisers seek to reset the event.

“We need to take a step back, do the right thing for our colleagues, friends and families, and we will return to make this a memorable rally,” says Mr Roestenburg. ¢

A

ENQUIRE TODAY WITH OUR PROFESSIONAL TEAM TO ARRANGE A VIEWING!

p

gesture of respect,

forthcoming major rally event has been postponed following the tragic passing of two promising young rally competitors in Paparoa last week

Finding a collective solution

u by Amy Fifita

A joint four-year research project between New Zealand and Ireland has begun with the goal of understanding more about methane emissions from pasture-based farming.

“We aim to determine the effect stage of lactation and pasture species, management and seasonal growth have

on base methane emissions, and how these factors influence cows’ response to methane-reducing technologies,” said DairyNZ principal scientist Jane Kay.

DairyNZ, the University College Cork, the Agriculture and Food Development Authority and the Irish Cattle Breeding Federation are involved in the investigation. The programme team is made up of people from students, researchers, database technology experts and professors.

The research is expected to also ensure the balance of emissions and mitigation techniques are accurately calculated for both countries.

Principal scientist Kay said finding solutions to help farmers reduce emissions while maintaining on-farm profit remains a research priority.

Current calculation techniques used to account for emissions in NZ have been in question for some time. More accurate methane sums will give a better understanding of emissions targets or costs in NZ and Ireland.

“The joint programme strengthens our connection with Ireland and enables NZ to leverage current and future research.

“This wider programme sees our worldleading scientists working with NZ farmers, research organisations and commercial companies to develop workable and scalable mitigation solutions. Those can be widely adopted on-farm to reduce emissions in a sustainable and viable way.”

There is hope that the findings will keep New Zealand competitive in the dairy market by reducing emissions even more.

“This is an attractive delivery mechanism for NZ, as it’s cost-effective and occurs well before product processing, such as milk harvesting.”

It also benefits DairyNZ’s wider research scheme. The company has Lye and Scott farms in the Waikato region and supports various other research projects like the Northland Agricultural Research Farm.

“We’re excited about our continued work alongside farmers and other sector

p DairyNZ principal scientist Jane Kay says the partnership will benefit DairyNZ’s wider research projects Photo: DairyNZ and research organisations to develop mitigation solutions for our unique pasture-based farm systems and to get ahead of the environmental challenges farmers face.” ¢

u by Andy Bryenton

The relationship between primary producers and the supermarket and

sectors has come under scrutiny in early 2024, with change on the agenda.

One area in which the relationship between farmers and big business has been under the spotlight is the case of supermarkets, which will be subject to a new code of conduct set out by the government during the next six months.

“They’ve got to operate in good faith, which is a very broad, overarching term, but ensuring that supply agreements are in writing,” said Grocery Commissioner Pierre van Heerden.

“There aren’t any unilateral variations from the supermarkets. They can’t force suppliers to use certain transport or other services. They can’t force suppliers to pay for their own business costs, like transporting goods between stores, merchandising and other things. Prices are higher than they should be, and competition will enable them to come down.”

The new grocery code of good conduct for supermarkets requires them to act in good faith with suppliers and pay them

on time to have plain English supply contracts. It bans retrospective contract changes. Breaches of the code will result in fines up to $3 million or three per cent of turnover, whichever is the greater.

However, when Horticulture New Zealand hosted a workshop with fruit and veggie growers in January, they heard that many primary producers work through an intermediary, meaning they are not protected by the new code. Those big and organised enough to deal directly with the duopoly will feel the benefits of this rule change in the next six months.

The other major business under scrutiny by rural advocates right now is banking. A Federated Farmers survey indicates farmers are feeling excessive pressure from their banks, and satisfaction with their banks is at a record low.

“The banks seem to be charging far higher interest rates for farm lending than for home loans, which is raising eyebrows in farming households across the country,” says Federated Farmers commerce spokesperson Richard McIntyre.

“Farmers are already under huge financial and mental pressure with high costs, falling commodity prices and extreme weather events. As if that wasn’t bad enough, now they also feel like they’re getting a raw deal from their bank.

“This is exactly why Federated Farmers has been calling on the government to support an independent inquiry into rural banking, so farmers can have confidence the banking systems are operating in a fair and proper way,” McIntyre said. ¢

p A new code of conduct will regulate how supermarkets interact with those supplying their goods

A dog’s tail … Good munny afta bad, Boss sez

“Well Dog, ya gotta wunder just wear the polytishins in Willington think they live. I reckin once they get electid, they suddenly reckin it’s a free pass to munny and special rules jus’ for them. Blimmin’ Wonderland, that’s wear.”

Boss an’ me were on a quick run ’round the proppity after he an’ his gerlfren’

“Nah, Deah,” sed Sharlene, an’ read sum more. “The apartment was uncomfortable, had small, poor-quality bathrooms and was badly laid out. The standard fell well short of the status of the prime minister and of comparable residences in other countries.

Sharlene got home froma trip to tha Feel Daze. An’ wen Boss was happy with tha way I look after things, we headed back down ter smoko with Boss drivin’ the new Big Blue Quod wot he bought atta Feel Daze special. It lookt ter me like the old red quod we got last year, but boss said sumthin’ about a tax-deductible thing. Anyway, at cuppatees time it startid rainin’ a bit, so we had smoko atta homested an’ he stardid on again ter

Sharlee about pollytishins and munny. “Deah,” he sed. “That pry minister Lucksin was bein’ paid a grand a week to live in his own blimmin’ flat in Wonder — sorry Willington, wen he’s bin on and on about alla munny the las’ guvmint was chuckin’ around and wasting, and he reckins he’s gonna save heeps of munny wile he’s in charge. Well, woop-de-do Deah, wotch this space. He only said no to getting huge munny for nuthing on his own flat wen he got caught eh?”

“Aha, so wile he’s more wurried about the last guvmint’s spendup, he wants a house like tha White House maybe?” seda Boss.

But Sharlene went on say: “The residence lacked soundproofing and had limited natural light.” But Boss was lookin’ over her atta papa wen he choked on his cuppatees.

Sharlene agreed, an’ then sed Boss shood wurry about even more stuff. She hada papa froma kattil stop atta rode gate and read in her skoolteecher voice: “They have raised red flags about Premier House and its condition and suitability as a home for the prime minister from 30-year-old fittings and furnishings to a lack of insulation and windows that were not adequately sealed and so let draughts in.”

“Oh deah,” seda Boss. “Drafty eh? Ole fashined too. Goodniss, I could get Jonno the handiman here ona farm, ta sort that in a jiffy.”

“Lookit there, Deah. They reckin that work ona pry minista’s place will cost $30 million. They shud jus’ bowl the place and build a new one. Spendin’ 30 millyin dollas ona old house. They could build a new one for a helluva lot less munny. Betta still, leave the pry minista in his own place. If he wonts to have a party for sum visitor like the Aussie leader, he could hava knees-up atta hotel in town eh?”

Sharlene said she reckined Boss hita nail ona head. I didn’t quite unnerstan’ about a nail ina head but she gave me a whole leff-over scone off the cupptees tray.

So I didn’t try. Anyway, I’m happy with me oil drum kennel and me fadge ter sleep on. Only cost boss haff a mutton to a mate.

Cheers readas — Billy ¢

March

Inner Peace for Complete Beginners — 5 week meditation course, starts Wednesday, 6 March, Kaipara Community Centre, $50 (or what you can afford) To book contact Maureen 021 0231 8008, www.bringbalance.co.nz.

Sea Week 2024 — FREE, 10th March, 2pm–5pm at Baylys Beach entrance. Sand sculpture competition, treasure hunt, games, beach safety & ocean awareness information and more, sausage sizzle and mussel fritters. Come down and enjoy fun in the sun at Baylys Beach.

Dargaville Tennis Club Mixed Doubles Tournament 10th March. Join us in Dargaville for our second Mixed Doubles One Day Tournament. Great prizes! Entry fee $20 per player. Entries to Peter Bond 027 408 5371 or petebond84@homail.com by 4th 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.

TIDE CHART

PUZZLE TIME

63 Cosmetic lacquer (4,6)

66 Obstinately determined (6)

67 Ban (6)

69 Restore to former position (9)

72 Body cloth (6)

73 Break up and vanish (9)

75 Not thorough or detailed (7)

77 Printing fluid (3)

80 Unpleasantly vivid (5)

81 Don’t tell anyone about it (4,2,5,5)

82 Mournful poem (5)

83 Fled (6)

84 Reflected deeply on (8)

85 Wins over (5)

DOWN

2 Rainproof cover (9)

3 Stomach lesion (5)

5 Dolts (4)

6 Cruel and barbaric (7)

7 Questioned closely, aggressively (12)

8 Rise (5)

9 Any cell (anag)(7)

10 Winner’s ribbon (4)

51

55

56 Meal break (9)

58 Articulates (4)

59 Muck (3)

60 Lose footing (4)

61 Prescribed allocations (6)

62 Cereal crop (3)

11 Balance (4,2)

12 Metal joiner (5)

13 Likes better (7)

14 Wrinkle by crushing (7)

16 Concealing ruse (11)

22 Agreement (6)

23 Blow up (7)

24 Death investigator (7)

25 Gracefully slender (6)

27 Illness (7)

28 Short sleep (6)

30 Stitched (4)

32 Backless seat (5)

34 Water vapour (5)

36 Pause for relaxation (4)

38 Big bird (3)

42 Expenses (5)

43 Staggering (7)

44 Small whirlpool (4)

45 Occurs (anag)(6)

46 Pilot’s badge (5)

48 Somnambulist (11)

49 Settle (7)

50 Whichever (3)

51 Train stop (7)

52 With red or flushed complexion (6)

53 Continuity break (12)

54 Dilute (4)

57 Cities (anag)(6)

64 Cheerfully careless (4-5)

65 Gaily (7)

66 Splits up (7)

68 Briefly shut the eyes (7)

70 Trespass (7)

71 Paper size (6)

72 Clay target shooting sport (5)

74 Farm animal (5)

76 Hurled (5)

78 Check and correct (4)

79 Doing nothing (4)

Sudoku

Fill

ACROSS: 1 Coach, 4 Take a second look, 14 Suave, 15 Stops, 16 Harbouring, 17 Crest, 19 End, 20 Handgun, 21 Traveller, 22 Felled, 25 Put on show, 27 Saturn, 28 Notion, 33 Balloonist, 35 Tea, 36 Assign, 37 Beer, 39 Rib, 41 Biscuit, 42 Tablet, 43 Consulted, 44 Upset, 45 Bad dream, 50 Up, 51 Tabulate, 55 Scrim, 58 Blackmail, 59 Biased, 60 Allowed, 61 War, 63 Ergo, 64 Sermon, 65 Apt, 66 Skateboard, 68 Caddie, 69 Rescue, 71 Out of date, 76 Seller, 77 Stopwatch, 79 Ostrich, 81 Tot, 84 Nests, 85 Arithmetic, 86 Goods, 87 Egypt, 88 By hook or by crook, 89 Stack.

DOWN: 2 Outlaw, 3 Cupid, 5 Afar, 6 Embargo, 7 Scurvy, 8 Chill, 9 Neglect, 10 Lack, 11 Obeyed, 12 Dazed, 13 Deadpan, 14 Stilton, 18 Automobile, 23 Astir, 24 Trisect, 26 Unlaced, 27 Start-up, 29 Inertia, 30 Marina, 31 Still, 32 Agenda, 34 Team, 36 Abyss, 38 Ridge, 40 Guru, 45 Bible, 46 Dragged, 47 Rake, 48 Abates, 49 Crown, 50 Umbrage, 52 Balderdash, 53 Lookout, 54 Theory, 55 Slimmed, 56 Paste, 57 Sees, 62 Canon, 67 Violent, 68 Clutter, 70 Catwalk, 72 Unclear, 73 Measly, 74 Cathay, 75 Acidic, 76 Stays, 78 Prior, 80 Roost, 82 Oslo, 83 Silo. 5x5

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

368

Jumbo crossword

FOR SALE

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

CARPET, VINYL and hard flooring. Full supply and installation service. Mobile showroom. Free measure and quote. Phone Christine — Kaipara Flooring Co 021 515 415.

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.

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

FENCING

FENCING QUOTES. Dargaville & Surrounds. Call Andrew on 027 455 7750.

FENCING, ALL types of fencing, pool, stockyards, post & rail, boundary plus … Call Jeff 027 476 5458, $9+gst.

FOR RENT

2 BEDROOM Cottage available for rent in approx. 3–4 weeks. $325 per week. Located a couple of minutes out of town. Would suit keen gardener. Strictly no dogs. Written Applications with at least 2 references to Wharau Topu C, PO Box 102, Dargaville 0340.

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

GRAZING

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

FEMALE

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.

SEPTIC TANK SERVICES

SATURDAY

Dargaville In Milk Empty Dairy Sale

Friday 8th March 2024

11.00am start

Offering 80 Frsn, Frsn X, Jsy & Jsy X Cows

Empty In Milk Mixed Age Cows

All figures available on sale day

All cows transferable if required

Please bring your herd & participant codes to Sale for transfers

For Further Information please contact PGW Livestock Agents

Steve Harsant 027 497 9892

Chris Fife 027 495 1552

MAGIC PROPERTY Services, effluent & septic tank cleaning. Servicing the Kaipara. Phone Chris 027 480 0110 or Mary 027

TRADES & SERVICES

FOR ALL your residential window & door glass & hardware. Catdoors, window catches & stays, sliding door wheels etc. All types of glass upgrades & repairs. Phone Glens Glass & Joinery Services for a free quote & honest service on 021 0234 7086.

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

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

LIVESTOCK

WANTED TO BUY

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

WORK WANTED

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

PUMP & WELDING repairs, Dargaville & Surrounds. Phone Nick 021 111 6593.

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

Toenail &

439

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.

CHESS CLUB, Dargaville. Wednesdays 6.30pm at the Catholic Church Hall. Phone Stephen 09 439 8819.

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

EMPLOYMENT CLINIC at Citizens Advice Bureau. Are you experiencing problems at work and considering taking action? For free, confidential advice from an experienced employment advocate call 09 439 6100 or email dargaville@cab.org.nz to make an appointment.

Next clinic Friday 15 March.

TE PUNA O Te Reo O Tākiwira Te Kōhanga Reo — AGM 12th March 2024, 5:30pm @ Kōhanga Reo. 38–40 Finlayson Park Avenue, Dargaville.

Te Kopuru Community Trust Inc

Coronation hall

OTAMATEA COMMUNITY SERVICES

FREE: counselling, parenting, social work, budgeting, senior support. 09 431 9080. reception@otamateacs.org.nz

153-155

Hurndall St, Maungaturoto

Te Kopuru AGM Tuesday 26 March at 6.30pm

Seeking nominations for Secretary and Committee members. All Welcome. Nominations to tkcoronationhall1911@ gmail.com

AGM AGM

14th March 2024

Thursday 7pm

at OLD BOYS

Nominations please email Demelza dobrfasc@gmail.com

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

PUBLIC NOTICES

Mangawhai Community Park Council is seeking feedback on a new Master Plan for Mangawhai Community Park.

The Master Plan will direct how the park will be managed and developed going forward, including identifying a future layout and what activities would be appropriate there. The draft Master Plan can be read on Council’s website https://www.kaipara.govt. nz/council/consultation-and-public-notices/ have-your-say or can be obtained from any Council office.

Submissions, feedback, objections or comments can be made:

• via Council’s website

• e-mailed to rmp@kaipara.govt.nz

• posted to Kaipara District Council, Private Bag 1001, Dargaville 0340 or

• delivered to any Council office.

Following the submission period a hearing will be held for those who indicate they would like to speak to their submission. All submissions must be received by close of business Monday 06 May 2024.

Kaipara District Council

Public notice

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

respect of the premises situated at 81 Victoria Street, Dargaville known as Empire Liquor Centre Wines & Spirits

The general nature of the business conducted under the licence is bottle store

The days on which and the hours during which alcohol is intended to be sold under the licence are: Monday to Sunday 9am to 10pm.

The application may be inspected during ordinary office hours at the Kaipara District Licensing Committee at 32 Hokianga Road, Dargaville or The Hub, 6 Molesworth Drive, Mangawhai.

Any person who is entitled to object and who wishes to object to the issue of the licence may, not later than 25 working days after the first publication of this public notice, file a 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 first publication of this notice.

DEATH NOTICES

BOURGEOIS, Dianne Madge

Passed away peacefully on 23rd Feb 2024 at Dargaville Hospital, in her 85th year.

Dearly loved wife to Graeme. Much loved Mum & motherin-law to Craig and Cheere, Blair & Julie, Stacey & Kelly. Treasured Grandma to Dylan and Rachel. Nana to Reagan, Seth, Toby & Grandma to Barbara and Great

PUBLIC NOTICES

Public notice

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

Hira Estates Limited of Ruawai, has made application to the Kaipara District Licensing Committee for the issue of an off-licence in respect of the premises situated at 19 Freyberg Road, Ruawai 0530 known as Ruawai Wines and Spirits

The general nature of the business under the licence is bottle store

The days on which and the hours during which alcohol is intended to be sold under the licence are: Monday to Sunday 11am to 7pm.

The application may be inspected during ordinary office hours at the Kaipara District Licensing Committee at 32 Hokianga Road, Dargaville or The Hub, 6 Molesworth Drive, Mangawhai.

Any person who is entitled to object and who wishes to object to the issue of the licence may, not later than 25 working days after the first publication of this public notice, file a 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 27 February 2024.

Public notice

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

Sim Hospitality Ltd of Dargaville, has made application to the Kaipara District Licensing Committee for the issue of an on-license in respect of the premises situated at 70 Victoria Street, Dargaville known as The Northern Wairoa Hotel

The general nature of the business conducted under the licence is Hotel

The days on which and the hours during which alcohol is intended to be sold under the licence are: Monday to Sunday 11am to 1am the following day.

The application may be inspected during ordinary office hours at the Kaipara District Licensing Committee at 32 Hokianga Road, Dargaville or The Hub, 6 Molesworth Drive, Mangawhai.

Any person who is entitled to object and who wishes to object to the issue of the licence may, not later than 25 working days after the first publication of this public notice, file a 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 27 February 2024.

New leadership roles for educators

u by Andy Bryenton

Dargaville High School has welcomed two new senior members to its faculty this academic year, with the appointment of a new deputy principal and associate assistant principal.

Marley Mckay comes to DHS from a background in education and top-level sports coaching. His experience in teaching has been augmented by a tenure coaching competitive rugby with the Auckland Rugby Union, and he says there’s a lot of crossover between the two disciplines.

“I like to build a culture which people want to be part of,” says Mr Mckay. “I think we have an exciting opportunity as the only high school in Dargaville to engage with our wider community and to bring about positive social change.”

Mr Mckay starts his new role at the same time as one of two assistant principals at DHS. Amber Curry has returned to the school after teaching there 11 years ago. The specialist English teacher has served a further two years at DHS recently and now takes up one of the top jobs among the faculty.

farmers’ wellbeing

u by Amy Fifita

The Rural Support Trust is hosting the Time Out Tour with Matt Chisholm at the Arapohue Hall, 3338 Mititai Road, on Thursday, March 14 from 6pm–10pm.

“Rural Support Trust is aligning with Matt Chisholm. He is our TOT ambassador and will have an open discussion about his mental health journey. We have also invited three local farmers who will be on a panellist discussion,” said RST ag facilitator Krista Franklin.

“My husband and neighbours went to a TOT event soon after the cyclone last year. It was a welcomed opportunity to get off-farm and comforting knowing we weren’t alone because farming can be difficult at times.

“We will continue to give our students as many opportunities as we can,” says Ms Curry.

She emphasised the DHS leadership’s desire to work closely with students’

families. Both she and Mr Mckay say they would like to see school and family as one and the same to provide exceptional support for learners.

“Feel free to come and talk,” said the deputy and assistant principals, inviting the parents of their students to visit and become more engaged with what goes on at school. ¢

“Matt’s openness allowed a safe space for fellow farmers to openly share their personal experiences — it was emotional and powerful.”

People can ask the Kaipara panellists questions throughout the evening. Dairy and sheep farmer Shaun MacDonald, kūmara grower, Horticulture New Zealand director and accountant Kathryn de Bruin and Northern Wairoa Vegetable Grower Association president and farmer Doug Nilsson are the panellists.

“They will deep dive into different experiences they’ve had on-farm postcyclone and any insights and tips for anyone needing support.”

The trust encourages farmers to host their work teams on the tour. It costs $10 individually and $15 for a double ticket, which includes a buffet dinner. For more information, visit events.humanitix. com/rural-support-trust-s-time-out-tourarapohue-2024.

“We envision it to be a good night offfarm to get people socialising with their rural community. We are thankful to all our sponsors who are pivotal to this event.” ¢

p Educators Marley McKay and Amber Curry are stepping up to leadership roles with Dargaville High School for the 2024 academic year

p The Rural Support Trust team at the Northland Field Days — Angela Greenhaugh, Krista Franklin, David Roughan and Roger Barley

Matakohe 205 Tinopai Road

Hidden gem on the Kaipara harbour

Currently farmed as a finishing block and been in the family for the past 30 years this north-facing beef farm contains 158 42 hectares and Maramarie is now going to the market This very picturesque property is located only 4km from Matakohe, has water frontage and is elevated with exceptional views overlooking the Kaipara Harbour Hidden amongst the established trees is a beautifully preserved century-Old Kauri Villa with four bedrooms plus office, complete with inviting sun rooms and spacious verandah The contour offers a good mixture of some flat to easy with the areas of better pasture separated by rolling and medium-steep hill country, this block offers the potential for a variety of stock and cropping policies Infrastructure includes eight bay implement shed, four bay shed with lean to and good set of cattle yards bayleys co nz/1060391

NEW LISTING

Paparoa 1228A Bull Road

158 4261 ha Auction

Catherine Stewart 027 356 5031

catherine stewart@bayleys co nz

Mike Williams 021 204 9125 mike williams@bayleys co nz

372 7621 ha

Bayleys Dargaville are thrilled to introduce Nellwyn Lulich as associate to award-winning local agent Lisa Pocklington.

Nellwyn Lulich’s love affair with real estate began when she purchased her first home before she was 20 After a diverse international career, she returned home to Dargaville in 2015 Customer-focussed, detail-oriented, and hands-on, Nellwyn’s priority is to help Team Pocklington’s clients achieve their real estate goals “Being a part of our client ’s real estate experience is extremely rewarding and fulfilling. It ’s a privilege to be a part of that process”.

For dedicated local real estate experts who intrinsically understand the Dargaville market, contact Team Pocklington today.

Lisa Pocklington

021 121 8419 | lisa.pocklington@bayleys co.nz

Nellwyn Lulich

029 127 4729 | nellwyn.lulich@bayleys.co.nz