Kaipara Lifestyler, May 30th 2023

Bike

A warm welcome to Kaipara

Mutual agreement to save cinema

u by Andy Bryenton

A solution has been found that will allow Dargaville’s Anzac Theatre cinema to reopen in July.

The cinema will be able to open its doors again in time for the school holidays. That is due to an agreement to see the town’s old Municipal Chambers partially repurposed from an art gallery to a ticketing and concessions space.

The cinema was compelled to close last month after the building and air quality

around the entrance and ticket office became unsafe. This part of the cinema was situated in the now-defunct annexe to the Dargaville War Memorial Town Hall, set for demolition.

Kaipara District Council, Muddy Waters Gallery and the Dargaville Community Cinema Charitable Trust have been

working constructively together on a solution that would enable the cinema to operate until the annexe area is demolished.

Jason Marris, Kaipara District Council’s chief executive, said that this collaboration recognises the importance of the cinema to the community. continued on page 3 …

glad that you have all decided to make

New

Zealand,

and specifically Kaipara, your home.” The mayor, joined by councillors Ash Nayyar and Mike Howard, relayed a message from

Governor-General

Dame Cindy Kiro to the new citizens. They became some of the first to pledge their oath to King Charles III as sovereign of the Commonwealth and monarch of New Zealand.

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p Dargaville Lions helped welcome in the reign of King Charles III with a right royal high tea at the Lighthouse Function Centre last week. Music, dancing and a fully catered high tea in the old English style were on offer as the new monarch’s coronation was commemorated. Pictured are pianist Nolene Osbaldiston, vocalist Jone Yelcich, event organiser Margaret Tier, accordionist Kevin Friedrich and ballroom dancers Karen and Ken Inder.

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game for people of all ages.”

Road Safety Week success

u by Paul Campbell

Those who lost their lives on Northland roads have been paid respect in Northland Road Safety Week with first responders to accidents, Fire and Emergency New Zealand, Police, St John, Northern Rescue Helicopter and volunteers saluted for their services.

Mutual agreement to save cinema

The event was marked by several events across the region and in Kaipara while it ended with more than 100 people traversing the Hātea Loop around Whangārei’s Hātea River, which Northland Road Safety Trust’s Ashley Johnson said made the week the most successful yet, “in recognition of our local road safety heroes. The walk was also held to pay respect to the 38 people killed on Northland roads in 2022.”

Johnston says she was overwhelmed with the turnout for the walk with students and Bike Northland turning up to ride the loop.

“This is only the second year we have done the walk, and I was so humbled to see so many people turn out in support of our road safety heroes and share their stories.”

Northland Transportation Alliance’s Nicole Cauty addressed the event to pay tribute to the lives needlessly lost on Northland roads in 2022 and also in 2023. “We need to acknowledge those who have passed but also be aware of the trauma friends, and whānau are left to deal with, not to mention the lifelong suffering many road crash survivors must live with,” says Cauty.

The Road Safety Week recognises the government’s Road to Zero: Strategy 2020–2030, which seeks to end statistics that show on average, one person is killed every day and another is injured every hour in road crashes nationwide. Both Johnston and Cauty believe everyone can play a part in making roads safer by adopting safer driving habits and looking out for each other. ¢

“There has been a lot of work going on in the background to make this happen, and it’s fantastic that we have all found a way to get the cinema up and running again,” said Mr Marris.

The cinema will take over the space that is currently occupied by the Muddy Waters Gallery on the lower floor of the Municipal Chambers building. The council is working with the gallery to find an alternative location.

“We’re grateful to the Muddy Waters Gallery for being so accommodating and offering to vacate their space for the cinema ticket office,” says Mr Marris.

This arrangement doesn’t impact the Dargaville Arts Association, which will continue to occupy the upper floor of the building, where it hosts art class programmes, community art groups, workshops and outreach events.

The council will also provide temporary toilets to the rear of the building in time for the July 1 opening. To further facilitate the cinema’s

operation, this agreement will make the cinema space and facilities available to the Anzac Theatre’s governing body rent-free.

“We recognise that the cinema adds to the community’s social and cultural needs. It plays an important role in our district and beyond, and we are pleased to continue supporting it.”

The groups will continue working on a more permanent solution that will be implemented after the annexe is demolished.

Muddy Waters Gallery stakeholders met last Sunday to discuss future plans, and the artists took the closure of their current premises in their stride. Good will for the cinema, and the vision of a more central, potentially more visible space for local art prevailed. Arts association leader John Pickworth says that a series of pop-up locations will house local art exhibitions, including the 2023 Kaipara Art Awards, in the period before a new, permanent gallery is established. ¢

p Supporters of the Road Safety Week memorial walk

p Dargaville Arts Association leaders Allan Mortensen and John Pickworth are pleased to have been part of a constructive solution which will see the Anzac Theatre’s cinema reopen

… continued from front page

Storm attrition and a silver lining

u by Andy Bryenton

Only a single tara iti — fairy tern chick survived the 2023 breeding season in the wild, but new knowledge on hatching the rare birds in captivity has been gained.

The Department of Conservation reports only three of the tiny seabird chicks made it out of the nest this year, but a further two were killed during Cyclone Gabrielle. The fairy tern is the rarest seabird in New Zealand, and due to its nesting habits, it has minimal protection from extreme weather events.

However, there’s good news, too, for the threatened species. Eight chicks were hatched in captivity in Auckland Zoo’s specialist facility, with seven surviving to adulthood. These birds were released on an island in the Kaipara Harbour, reclaiming a piece of habitat for the tara iti.

“There were big lessons learned in the captive-rearing trials which we undertake in partnership with Auckland Zoo. While there is still more work to do, positive progress is being made,” said DOC Tara iti senior ranger Alex Wilson.

“Many of the eggs intentionally collected for the captive-rearing trials this season likely would have been lost during the storms and extreme weather events, highlighting the future potential of intensive management like captive-rearing.

“Although this season has been challenging, we are encouraged by the

Public’s say on fees and charges

u by Andy Bryenton

Kaipara District Council elected members faced the public’s scrutiny of their proposed fees and charges regime last week after consulting with their constituents for a month on the cost of council services.

progress we have made in predator control, habitat creation, nest management and captive-rearing and release. These efforts will be critical in the ongoing conservation of the tara iti,” said Alex.

With fewer than 40 birds, the tara iti is listed as nationally critical and has teetered on the brink of extinction since the 1970s. These new techniques may secure a brighter future. ¢

This feedback, and a desire by many respondents to speak in person to the council, meant that a special meeting was convened on May 25 to listen to concerns and suggestions.

These will be taken into account before the revised costs of things like dog registration, rubbish disposal, building consents and other council services are set.

Responses were mixed in the public survey, with the majority of respondents questioning the council’s adoption of a 7.2 per cent CPI (inflation) rating.

“My feedback is that I actually accept the proposed increases. They are a necessary response to inflation and would not make any sense at all to either decrease or stop the proposed increase,” said Richard Godman of Kaiwaka. “As

a ratepayer, I would rather stay up with inflationary trends.”

Previous council candidate and Te Kōpuru resident Mark Ancrum was one of those opposed to fees rises, taking a hard line against the proposals.

“All of the fees and charges require reducing, as with rates. Unless council can provide actual mathematical rationale as to an increase in the cost of a fee or charge, then I would suggest that fee of charge is reduced,” he stated in his submission.

“The council does not even provide adequate services on current rates, fees and charges, so what is going to change if you put the prices up?”

The council will weigh up all responses before finalising fees and charges for this year’s annual plan. ¢

p Councillors will consider public feedback on a rise in fees and charges, after online submissions and a special hearing last week

p Valuable lessons have been learned in the fight to save Kaipara’s fairy tern population, and despite losses to storms, a new colony has been established in the Kaipara Harbour

Culture, sports and friendship on tour

u by Andy Bryenton

The under-18 Poutō Warriors Netball team is working toward a major international tournament in Fiji, but while there, they will do more than compete on the courts.

Road trip fights breast cancer

u by Andy Bryenton

BreastScreen Aotearoa’s mobile unit is visiting Dargaville, providing a free mammogram service to help with the early detection of breast cancer.

“According to the research and statistics, there are simply far too many women who succumb to this kind of cancer each year,” says Te Ha Oranga spokesperson Fi Richards.

Te Ha Oranga, the healthcare service provider is promoting the BreastScreen bus on its Kaipara visit.

The team, support staff and coaches will head to Lautoka, Fiji, on December 6 to join an international tournament. However, this sporting event has a mission beyond clocking up points and awarding trophies.

“It’s all about bringing youth and families together by blending cultures, communities and counties through netball,” says team spokesperson Rosanne Low.

“That means that this tour is not just about netball. It’s also a cultural experience. We will sponsor a local Fijian team at the tournament, we’ll be learning about Fiji and its people, and we’ll also be able to donate sports equipment to local teams there.”

The young athletes will be ambassadors as they visit the villages and towns of their

hosts, explore the island, go snorkelling and attend cultural performances. Amongst all these learning opportunities will come four days of intense oncourt action against teams from many nations.

To get there, the netballers will be raising funds all year, through hāngī, car washes, raffles, a housie night and a big midwinter Christmas feast and quiz on July 8. The coaches and players thank those who have already helped them reach their goal and ask the public to please support them in their fundraising efforts.

Donations of good used netball equipment are being collected to donate to young Fijian teams. If you have anything to send with the Poutō Warriors, drop it off at Grant’s Gas and Plumbing; all shipping and postage is prepaid. ¢

“We’re doing this for our community, encouraging our wāhine to look after their health and to be there for their families. Regular mammograms save lives by detecting the development of cancer early, well before it can be felt. Early detection means a better chance of beating breast cancer.”

To increase the rate of uptake, this visit, running from June 6–30, will focus on women in the 45 to 69-year-old age bracket. They are statistically the most likely to experience breast cancer symptoms. Another focus, according to Fi, is the under-representation of Māori and Pasifika women in terms of the uptake of free mammograms —

something she and her colleagues want to turn around.

You can book an appointment with the BreastScreen Aotearoa mobile unit by calling 0800 270 200 or visit the brightly painted‘bus when it is emplaced near the intersection of Normanby and Gladstone Streets in Dargaville. More information on the mission to reduce breast cancer’s harmful impact on Kiwi women, families and society is available from nsu.govt. nz, timetoscreen.nz/breast-screening and breastcancerfoundation.org.nz, all of which carry valuable resources. ¢

p Organisers are calling it a life-changing experience; a whole team of young local netballers is set to visit Fiji this summer

p A mammogram is the first line of defence, which can identify breast cancer early for more effective treatment, say medical experts

Learning through experience

u by Amy Fifita

Dargaville High School NCEA English students recently went to Auckland to watch the stage performance Witi’s Wāhine at Auckland’s ASB Waterfront Theatre.

“It was an amazing opportunity for them to see a live theatre performance. The play was based on Witi Ihimaera’s characters,” English teacher Rachel Leao said.

“Witi Ihimaera is a famous New Zealand author, and the students come across his stories in all levels of English at school.”

Forty-two year 11–13 students went to witness the stage show created by the late playwright Nancy Brunning. The story focusses on four characters from Ihimaera’s writing.

“The students loved it, and there was also lots of laughter. One student said she felt all kinds of emotions while watching the play — heartache, excitement, fear and joy.

“It’s good for them to see something different and show them other opportunities that they may not have thought of as possibilities for themselves. It was also important for the drama students to see real actors performing and doing what they are being taught to do.”

School skips for a cause

u by Amy Fifita

Selwyn Park School is getting involved in the Jumping June fundraiser and is seeking sponsors to raise money for The Heart Foundation.

“We got involved in the event to help get the students active and because they love sports,” says whaea Tui Hutchinson.

“It is an amazing cause to awhi (embrace). I have lost close family and friends to heart failure, and my dad has a pacemaker. The initiative is a win-win — tamariki get fit through skipping and prizes for money made, and the foundation makes money.”

After the performance, students were given an opportunity to ask the main actors questions, including one of the student’s aunties who starred in the play.

“The student’s aunty is from Mōtatau, a little community near Kawakawa and talked about being from a tiny little community. She explained that if you have a passion, then you can do something amazing and don’t think you can’t because you’re from a small town. That was really good for our students to hear.”

“It was a great day out and an opportunity to see an awesome play by New Zealand people and acted by New Zealanders.” ¢

The cause is incentivised, with students who raise more than $10 receiving a prize for their efforts, and bigger rewards for those who make more money.

Selwyn Park School welcomes parents and whānau to be there and get involved on the day. The school is already beyond halfway through its $1,500 target.

“Being a small school, a decile one and all the recent rising of costs I didn’t want to set an unachievable sponsorship target. However, we launched the fundraiser on May 15 and have already raised $944.”

On June 15, 150 tamariki will take to the schoolyard with skipping ropes

and continue raising money. The skipping ropes were gifted to the school by the New Zealand Heart Foundation.

“It is quite overwhelming, and we have an amazing whānau at Selwyn Park School that always supports charities. It is the first time the school has done the Jumping June fundraisers, and I encourage people to sponsor the children if they can.”

For more information or to sign your child up for the event, go to jumpingjune. co.nz or contact info@jumpingjune. co.nz. ¢

p Dargaville High School students had the chance to see a live performance of Witi’s Wāhine, a play written by Nancy Brunning based on New Zealand author Witi Ihimaera’s characters

p Selwyn Park School students Elias Murray practising jumping with Isla Herman and Tequila Miru holding the rope at the recent Pink Shirt Day

Historic show issues invitation

u by Amy Fifita

For the past 142 years, the Northern Wairoa A&P Show at Arapohue has showcased country challenges and skills.

Former president Richard Alspach is standing down this year after a long record of service to the show and his community.

Under his tenure and that of a strong committee, Richard says that the show has not just endured but thrived, despite Covid-19 and unseasonal storms.

New president Andy Bryenton was selected by the show committee this year to invite more groups, clubs, teams and organisations to embrace one of the longest-running events in New Zealand as their own. Bryenton, a local Dargaville writer, was asked to bring some fresh ideas to augment the show’s traditional attractions.

“I have the greatest respect for the committee and those people who have worked, some for decades, on making the show what it is today,” says Mr Bryenton. “I’m reassured that favourites, such as the shearing, equestrian, livestock and Young Farmer competition, are in good hands with committee members who are experts in those fields. I aim to encourage community groups to participate, too, helping them gain new members, reach out to the community, and show everyone the kind of fun they have and the good work they do.”

Bike tracks shape up

u by Andy Bryenton

The Kauri Coast now has a fully operational mountain bike park, with fifteen trails formed and open to the public on the Babylon Coast Road site.

“There are lots to experience, and because the land is sandstone based, there’s excellent drainage. You can enjoy the trails all year round without mud,” says Sadie Cogan. She is one of the team from Kaipara Cycling who helped to make the bike park a reality.

It’s been a lot of hard work, with teams of volunteers heading out with their bikes and pruning who you gonna call tools to prepare the way for a professional trail-making crew and a small excavator bought by the team. Each trail is close to one kilometre long, and many different skill levels are catered to, from grade two to grade four.

Kaipara Cycling began this project with community support from various sources. Some businesses, families and individuals have donated time, money and expertise. Large grants, like a recent one from the Lotteries Commission, have helped immensely.

If you are part of a community group, sports team, school, cultural group or club, the A&P show wants to hear from you. Ideas to showcase what you do and reach out to the community are warmly welcomed. Drop a line to arapohue@hotmail.com or message them on Facebook.

“We’re up and running now, and we’re even taking shuttles out to the park by arrangement,” says Sadie. “There’s a lot of very good, positive feedback coming in from people who have given it a go, and of course, many people who come back over and over again. There’s even the possibility of a shuttle van back to the top of the hill.”

The finished park may take several more years to come to fruition, but with the 15-trail milestone now reached, those behind the ambitious plan to boost local tourism and outdoor activity feel confident.

“We’d like to thank everyone who has taken part and invite the community to come and give it a go,” Sadie said. ¢

p Northern Wairoa A&P Show president Andy Bryenton wants to invite more local groups to take part in the 142-year-old event

p Young mountain bikers gather to enjoy the 15 multi-grade trails now open at Dargaville’s Babylon Coast Road bike park

Council on the road

u by Andy Bryenton

The mayor, elected members and senior staff of the Kaipara District Council took to the road last week to inspect areas of future development and growth.

The road trip set off from Matakohe and Ruawai and specifically targeted the western portion of the Kaipara District, where councillors were keen to look at areas cited for growth and development. How to facilitate that development and make it more economical and timely is at the core of many councillor’s mission in office, as stated in their election platforms.

“It’s good to have a discussion in less formal surroundings and to have local councillors imparting their local knowledge to senior staff here, too,” said KDC chief executive Jason Marris.

Elected members also appreciated viewing the district’s assets from ground level. For example, the Raupo Drainage Scheme that so successfully withstood the unprecedented onslaught of rain and flooding during Cyclone Gabrielle.

“We have discussed a lot of issues on the bus coming through this morning, and it’s very different from being around

Rice grass spread alert

u by Paul Campbell

The fight against Manchurian wild rice grass is being stepped up with fears that the invasive pest plant could have been spread during recent flooding in Kaipara on the banks of the Wairoa River and its tributaries and adjacent farmland.

Northland Regional Councillor Geoff Crawford, who chairs the Biosecurity Working Party, says beyond this core area there are scattered infestations on pasture and cropping land, roadsides, and in and around creeks and farm drains. “Small infestations also occur near Whangārei, Kerikeri, Mangawhai and Mangakahia areas.”

Due to the scale of the infestation, total eradication is not possible with current technologies. However, the goal is to progressively contain Manchurian wild rice to prevent its spread and reduce its distribution.

the meeting table,” said Councillor Ash Nayyar.

“This has been an opportunity for bonding with fellow councillors and really getting into the nitty-gritty of the district’s potential.”

Infrastructure, housing, business, transport, natural disaster resilience and future growth were all topics on the agenda as the representative team made stops at key areas, aiming to take in as much of the western Kaipara as possible by day’s end. ¢

“It is a Notifiable Organism, and is subject to a National Interest Pest Response programme administered by the Ministry for Primary Industries.”

The pest is a giant grass that grows up to four metres high. Native to Asia, it arrived unintentionally in ship’s ballast water near Dargaville more than 100 years ago.

It has harsh, dull-green leaves that are one to two centimetres wide and grow in fans. Councillor Crawford says during floods, it is prone to break off in chunks from the edges of drains and riverbanks and can be deposited elsewhere.

“Please monitor all areas where contract machinery has come on to site as they might have carried in root fragments of rice grass that can easily establish at a new site.” ¢

p A team of councillors, senior KDC staff and the mayor got aboard a chartered bus to visit areas of future development in the west of Kaipara, helping them to plan progress for the region

p Northland Regional Council staff member Curtis Harris with Manchurian rice grass at Tangowahine

Nominate champions for nature

u by Andy Bryenton

Applications are open for the fifth annual Northland Regional Council Whakamānawa ā Taiao — Environmental Awards, which recognise outstanding efforts in environmental protection.

Northland Regional Council

chair Tui Shortland says the awards commend the people and organisations making a difference for Northland’s environment. Those whose commitment and contributions are helping the natural world should be nominated to get some well-deserved recognition, with entries open now.

“Our region has been through a lot over the past few months, and our community continues to show how strong and resilient it is by persevering with mahi and projects across Te Tai Tokerau despite these challenges,” she says. “The work they are doing is so important, and we believe in recognising, celebrating and sharing that.”

Last year saw memorable wins for groups spearheading environmental action in the community, those working to protect native species, people remediating waterways and, locally, the staff and students of Tangiteroria School for their role in environmental education.

“It’s been a focus for many years,” said principal Megan McCollum. “The students themselves came up with the

Farmers attack RMA plan

u by Paul Campbell

“An absolute nightmare for farmers” is contained in planned reforms of the Resource Management Act, according to Federated Farmers, which has announced it will join a wider protest roadshow planned by the Taxpayers’ Union across the country.

“We all want to see reform of the RMA, but it needs to be done right to address the issues of cost and complexity that farmers face every time they want to do something productive with their land,” says Federated Farmers RMA reform spokesperson Mark Hooper.

“The current legislation just ties farmers up in red tape, slows us down, and heaps on unnecessary costs, but the government’s proposed reforms will only make that worse. It’s an absolute nightmare for farmers.”

school slogan and vision ‘growing great kids’, and this led naturally to the concept of the green and growing environment around us.”

People can nominate themselves or others in up to two of the categories — entries close Sunday, June 18. Category winners will receive a prize package containing $1,000, a handcrafted trophy designed by a local artist, and a professional project promotional video and photography package. Nominate your local environmental leaders by visiting awards.nrc.govt.nz.

Federated Farmers will join nine of 30 planned stops, including Kaipara, by the Taxpayers’ Union, which opposes Environment Minister David Parker’s proposal to replace the RMA and local councils with co-governed Central Planning Committees.

“Federated Farmers strongly oppose the current reforms because they will shift land-use planning away from democratically elected councils towards Regional Planning Committees, which will be at arm’s length from their local community,” Hooper said.

“We also have real concerns that the reforms will introduce new, vague and

undefined concepts that will create huge uncertainty for landowners and likely lead to time and money wasted with legal challenges through the courts.

“The government shouldn’t be looking to rush this critical piece of legislation through before the election. They need to slow down and take their time. The current reforms are fatally flawed, and they need to go back to the drawing board.” ¢

p Tangiteroria School was a big winner in last year’s NRC Environmental Awards — now is the time for similar groups to be nominated for 2023

p Mark Hooper, Federated Farmers RMA reform spokesperson

Moo-ving Day

Contacts around the Kaipara District

u by Andy Bryenton

If you’re new to Kaipara, welcome! June 1 is traditionally a time to greet new neighbours, and we’ve put together a list of some important locals you might need to contact in an emergency to help you out.

Of course, if you’re in serious trouble medically, if you notice a fire out of control, if you witness a motor accident or a crime in progress, please call 111. There are

ambulance stations, firehouses and police stations in all of the major towns of Kaipara. Still, this emergency hotline number is the one to call when life and property are in jeopardy. For crimes that have already been committed, such as discovering evidence of a burglary, please call 105.

As a maritime district, many Kaipara citizens enjoy boating and fishing. Due to having two harbours and beaches on two coasts, the district is served by two Coastguard patrols, one based in Tinopai and the other serving the Bream Bay area. When out on the water, the Coastguard channel for North Kaipara is 61 or 66. On the east coast, tune in to channel 05 to contact the shore and channel 18 to reach a Coastguard vessel. Anywhere on the water, you can call for urgent aid on channel 16.

Coastguard sailors will assist with a breakdown on the sea, but how about on the road? If you’re stuck and need a tow anywhere in Kaipara, you can call Ross Recovery, a 24-hour service, on 09 439 4779. Those with AA roadside rescue can

also call 0800 500 444, anytime between 8am and 6pm.

In a medical emergency, there are three major medical centres in Kaipara to turn to. Once again, if the situation is critical, please call 111 for St John ambulance assistance. Dargaville has its own hospital, situated at 77 Awakino

Road and is open for emergencies round the clock. You can call the hospital on 09 439 3330. Conveniently next door is the Dargaville Medical Centre, where General Practitioner services are available. Come to them for all non-urgent medical advice if you are in West Kaipara; you’ll find them at 09 439 8079.

p Those in peril on the sea can rely on the Coastguard to rush to the rescue — Kaipara’s two harbours are under its watchful eye

Moo-ving Day

In Maungatūroto, the medical centre and GPs are situated at 138 Hurndall Street, right on the corner of the main shopping precinct. You can call them on 09 431 8576. Finally, east coast medical care is available from a similar facility in Mangawhai, at 4 Fagan Place. Their phone contact is 09 431 4128.

Of course, not every emergency is lifethreatening; some require advice from professionals in matters of law, finance, mental health, support and counselling. A wealth of services covering all manner of pro-social aims are accessible via not-forprofit and volunteer groups in Kaipara’s major towns.

Chief amongst them is the Citizens Advice Bureau in Dargaville, on 09 439 6100; its offices are in the civic buildings on Hokianga Road. Around the corner, several other social services and support groups, such as those advocating for youth, family and seniors, are found at the Whānau Focus Centre on Victoria Street. Call them on 09 439 7009. In Maungatūroto, you’ll find help via Otamatea Community Services on 09 431 9080, while Mangawhai’s Te Whai Trust also offers support for families and for the elderly; it has offices at 73 Moir Street and can be reached on 09 431 3459.

For help with tough financial times, call the Ministry of Social Development in Dargaville on 0800 559 009. They

can help you find employment and access financial aid in times of need. Older citizens who may receive a pension will find similar help via the MSD’s senior services department on 0800 552 002.

To get in touch with Kaipara’s local leadership, there are a few numbers to keep on speed dial.

The Kaipara District Council is the one to talk to about noise control, wandering livestock, stray dogs and infrastructure like water and sewers. You can talk to them on 0800 727 059. The Northland Regional Council has a more environmental focus and should be called if you are concerned about the condition of waterways, shorelines and beaches. Call them on 0800 002 004. Also taking care of the environment is the Department of Conservation; for wildlife emergencies, you can reach them via 0800 362 468.

p Dargaville and Rauwai firefighters enjoy friendly competition in sports and games, but work closely as mates when emergencies threaten to ask how best to dispose of different kinds of waste, including advice on hazardous materials.

Dargaville’s transfer station is run by Kaipara Refuse, and is situated at the very end of Awakino Road. You can call

them on 09 439 0425. Hakaru ReSort takes care of disposals and recycling on the East coast. They are situated halfway between Kaiwaka and Mangawhai on the main highway, and can be reached on 09 438 0802. ¢

Kaipara and Northland’s member of parliament is Willow-Jean Prime, of the Labour Party. Her office can be contacted for matters of governmental interest on 0800 957 7463.

Finally, another local amenity that will be of use is the local waste disposal and recycling service.

There are two waste transfer and recycling stations in Kaipara. Call them

Moo-ving Day

A handshake with community

u by Amy Fifita

We’ve all heard the common phrase to ‘shop local’ contested by people rationalising that it is cheaper to shop elsewhere, so why is it worth it to fuel the domestic economy?

For that reason, shopping locally helps fund local businesses and owners, which gives rise to your community flourishing. There are various shops and services in the Kaipara, from agriculture to art.

If you are new to the area, it is an excellent opportunity to get out there, meet with local store people and get a feel for the place. You can also pick their knowledge on worthwhile history, places to visit and attractions to see.

Local shops have a more homely atmosphere than big chain retailers. It also promotes accountability. If you know where your goods and services are from, then, should something go wrong, assistance is just a phone call away.

You create new connections with people. The more you interact with them, the more you get to know each other’s likes and dislikes or get the opportunity to tell each other brief stories about the happenings of your day. Many people enjoy having a natter about something that piqued their interest or an amusing anecdote.

Trust can be built through the professional relationship you have as a

customer. Often, more time and care is put in by the neighbourhood shops, which adds a personal touch to the experience. Not only do they serve the community, but they employ residents in the area. Increasing local businesses’ profits allows them to expand their team.

There is also more convenience for shoppers. Having a service or product a short drive or walk away is easier than shopping online or travelling to another area and fueling the economy there. The store people will likely have better knowledge of what is in the store and where items are from.

p Dargaville town centre has various local businesses that make their mark on the community less packaging, which adds to your waste contribution.

By shopping locally, you, as a consumer, have a smaller carbon footprint. Nowadays, people are more in tune with their effects on the environment. The store workers can give you reliable feedback on what items are sustainably sourced.

It also requires less transportation because the goods are already there and convenient for you to buy. It requires

It is like a handshake with the community, and by supporting each other, everyone plays their part and offers what they can to make the town a better place. You’ll often find a variety of expertise and creations authentic to them.

Research suggests that local businesses support each other more than widespread corporations. Buying locally sourced items enables the business to support other companies in their vicinity, strengthening the economy even further. ¢

Moo-ving Day Submitting to change

u by Amy Fifita

Beef + Lamb New Zealand has made a recent submission to the government outlining topics for consideration for the United Nations Climate Change Conference, Conference of the Parties (COP28).

“New Zealand pastoral agricultural systems already provide a model for others to follow as our red meat has a greenhouse gas footprint that is among the lowest in the world. It enhances biodiversity and has some of the highest animal welfare in the world,” Beef + Lamb New Zealand chief executive Sam McIvor said.

The submission highlights topics of interest, such as the concern surrounding the GWP100 calculation of the effects of emissions. It suggests finding a more accurate determiner for global warming effects using the modern models of Global Warming Potential (GWP) and Combined Global Temperature Potential (CGTP). Both metrics take into account the cumulative effects of shortlived greenhouse gases.

“We know that the GWP100 metric overstates the warming impact of methane when emissions are stable or falling, and therefore is unfit for the

purpose of comparing long-lived and short-lived emissions.”

The document also suggests considering looking at net zero warming as opposed to net zero emissions. It also commends the government for going for an international leadership role.

“We support the New Zealand Government taking a leadership position on agricultural climate change and

suggest that a good place to start would be an international coalition that recognises the short-lived nature of biogenic methane and manages it appropriately.

“While climate change policy that directly influences sheep and beef farmers is made at a domestic level, it is largely influenced by what is agreed internationally. Although we have concerns about domestic issues such as afforestation and what appropriate targets for methane should be, this consultation focusses on issues being negotiated at an international level.”

B+LNZ would like to see the government take a transparent approach in showing what challenges New Zealand is facing while still demonstrating ways how to address emissions.

“As the voice of New Zealand sheep and beef farmers, we need to ensure policy development does not unfairly disadvantage our sector.” ¢

p World leaders and government officials will gather at the Dubai Expo Centre in the United Arabs Emirates for COP28 to further discuss how to meet their emissions targets

A dog’s tail …

Polyticks is a sandpit, Boss reckins

“Well Dog, it is a blimmin’ worry, we gonna hava ’lection, and what have we got fer starters? It’s like kids squablin’ ina sand pit I reckin.”

Gidday readas, that was Boss soundin’ off as we headed downa farm race ter cuppatees at smoko, so I reckined that his gerlfren’ Sharlene was gonna here sum more. True, wen we got out of sum more rein ina kitchen, Boss startid again.

“Yer no Deah, this country is such a mess them pollys out chasin’ votes havint got all that much ter offer, ’cept a lotta name callin’. Like I said, they like kids squablin’ over toys.”

Sharlene hada papa as usual an’ she agreed in her skoolteecher voice.

”Labour will keep the superannuation age at 65 and maintain the winter energy payment, while National seeks to change or scrap them.”

Boss giva snort. “They got no munny ter offer anythin’ that’ll excite us voters. An’ that Robertson bloke just name callin’ I reckin. Us voters got plenty of things ter worry us. Petril costs goin’ up, food costs still too high an’ they won’t get any betta with this blimmin’ weather we havin’, we

lucky ter be ona farm wear we kin kill a hogget an’ grow sum veggie tucker. But let’s hope they give us a tax break for a ’lection presint eh?”

Then Sharlene red sum more. “Grant Robertson fires shots at opposition leaders calling Mr Luxon ‘Captain Cliche’ and compares the the opposition to a ‘rubbish Marvel comic’, and ACT’s David Seymour a ‘reverse Robin Hood’.”

“Yep, seda Boss again. “I reckin that’s all they got to say for theirselves. An’ lookit that big ’lection spendup by the guvmint on climate change, fer NZ Steel to cut down burnin’ coal. Wen ya reckin that China, ’Merica, an’ India an’ Russia between ’em do around 20,000 million tonnes of greenhouse gases, and little old us does 78 million, that $140 million be better spint ona slip repair or a bridge fixup. Peeple who reckin it’s gonna help our climate gotta know that wot comes out ina rest ofa werld affects the climite fer us hear.”

“Agree Deah,” said Sharlene. “An’ they say that munny will cut our emissions by one percint. Well guess wot? That steel lot got overseas owners, so we just givin’ then a free cash blimmin’ top up, eh? Yer right. They shudda fixed a bridge somwear or a road slip.”

Boss givea sigh then. “Ya gotta wunder though wen it gonna end.”

We was home ina rein again, readas, an’ I no wot tha Boss ment. Tha big wet has caused big wurries ona farm as well as everwear. But Sharlene was still readin’ an’ I perked me ears up.

“We all know this is going to be a tight election,” she sed. “And it says here, too, that Chris Hipkins is the most down-to-earth, sausage roll-eating, Cokezero drinking prime minister we’ve ever had.”

Wots ina name eh readas? But sausage rolls? Now that mite get my vote, if I had one.

Counting the cost in rural New Zealand

u by Andy Bryenton

Following budget announcements aimed to curb the excesses of the cost of living crisis, Federated Farmers’ leadership has highlighted an exacerbating factor that’s crept up behind the scenes; the cost of farming crisis.

Feds Northland president Colin Hannah notes that the cost of farming and the cost of basic foodstuffs are linked in a fundamental way. He’s in agreement with new interim national president Wayne Langford, who has coined the ‘cost of farming crisis’ phrase to cover a multitude of rising necessities in agriculture.

In the past year, farmers have seen fertiliser costs hiked by 28 per cent, fuel costs have risen 33 per cent, and interest rates, perhaps the biggest of these bills, rise by 45 per cent. The Federated Farmers leaders also point out other rising costs necessary to work the land; things such as electricity, staff wages, and council rate increases.

“As a farmer, all of your costs are heading up, but the price we are receiving for our produce is heading in the opposite direction. Farmers are getting squeezed in the middle and are struggling to turn a profit,” says Mr Langford.

The Feds presidents say that while farmers were not seeking budgetary relief during mid-May’s announcement from

the Minister of Finance, they had hoped for a reduction of onerous and costly regulatory pressures.

“We made it clear last week when we released our budget wish list that farmers aren’t looking for a handout and are happy to stand on our own two feet,” Wayne Langford says.

“Still, the other side of that coin was a request that the government stop weighing us down with impractical, unpragmatic and unfair regulations that are heaping on costs and tying us up in red tape. We’re still waiting for them to deliver on that second request but hope we will see some movement soon because farmers can’t afford to wait.”

While Federated Farmers approach this cost of farming issue from the perspective of their membership, the cost of producing meat, fruit and vegetables inevitably ends up being carried by the end consumer. Food prices rose by more than 12 per cent during the past year, the biggest increase in the past three decades, according to Infometrics.

“Government spending is now $61 billion higher than it was six years ago, and the budget estimates spending will double from the period 2017 to 2027. What farmers really want to see from the government is reduced red tape,” Mr Langford said. ¢

p Wayne Langford is acting president of Federated Farmers; his response to the government’s 2023 budget highlights a cost of farming crisis in rural New Zealand

Thunder in the dirt

u by Andy Bryenton

The world’s most powerful motorsport doesn’t take place on tarmac or involve sleek racing cars with millionaire drivers.

With its origins in the good-natured boasting and rivalry of wagoneers and ploughmen in the early days of farming in the US, the sport of tractor-pulling has a big following worldwide. It also boasts some of the biggest figures when it comes to horsepower.

Originally, it was literal horse-power which drove the sport. The strongest teams got more than just a celebratory beer or two. Each victory was wellwatched by local farmers, and winning was the best form of advertising. As motorised tractors began to take over in the 1920s, many traditional horse-drawn plough teams took on the new machines in contests between animal muscle and internal combustion. While the writing was on the wall for the horses, eventually, they paved the way for contests between tractors.

Horse pulling is still a big drawcard at many US A&P shows. Still, its offspring,

the tractor pull, has advanced to levels almost absurd in their power and noise. The very first competitions used normal tractors and the same rules employed for horses; records state that the first time mechanised tractors went head-to-head was in Vaughnsville, Ohio, in 1929.

The National Tractor Pullers Association was founded in 1969, as tractors got increasingly powerful, and a set of rules covering the entire US was needed. The

organisation supported mainly stock tractors and had the motto ‘pull on Sunday, plough on Monday’. Then, in the mid-1970s, something happened that changed the sport forever.

Back in 1963, hot rod maverick Ed ‘Big Daddy’ Roth had crafted a car called the Mysterion with two Oldsmobile big-block V8s. Inspired by this feat of engineering, the Bosse Brothers from Ohio created a high-power ‘crossbox’ gear train which could pump the torque from more than one tractor engine out through the back wheels. Carl and Paul deployed a twinmill tractor and smashed the competition. Then Bruce Hutcherson upped the ante with a triple-V8 tractor called Makin’ Bacon. Tim Engler put the capstone on this mad brilliance with his Mission Impossible machine, mounted with no less than seven alcohol-powered big blocks.

Things only got more brutal in the race for power. Tractor builders took the motors from Russian military helicopters, navy torpedo boats, the giant V-12s from vintage warplanes, and more. One tractor packed the engine from an M103 battle tank. Another used a 54-litre, 18-cylinder bomber engine. Rules were reframed

to prevent literal rocket and jet tractors from being fielded.

Today, there are multiple classes of tractor, from vintage and stock machines to absolute monsters with multiple turbochargers and methanol fuel. In New Zealand, most tractor pulls use the kind of machines farmers use, though watching the mad spectacle of the US championships is an eardrum-shattering thrill ride. ¢

p The 1970s and 1980s saw tractor pull machines become absolute monsters; some with multiple 1,000 horsepower engines working at once

Moo-ving Day

Water off a duck’s back

u by Andy Bryenton

With the 110th anniversary of New Zealand’s most well-known hunting and outdoor shirt nearly upon us, it’s time to celebrate the Swanndri, which narrowly avoided being named after a duck. of waterfowl. The answer? Company founder William Broome thought that Duckdri sounded silly. He picked the more elegant and equally rainproof swan as his mascot; the rest is history.

The company that makes the distinctive chequered bush wear say it still receives questions about why its product isn’t named for that most famously waterproof

At least, it has been since 1913, 11 decades ago. Just before Christmas that year, Mr Broome trademarked his invention, which he’d developed after talking to many hunters in the Taranaki farmlands he called home. Hunters in those days made do with woollen bush vests, using the properties of greasy lanolin to keep off the rain. This method had come down from the ancestral woolly jumpers favoured by Scots and Irish fishers and herders in days gone by.

This method produced a big, thick, warm garment, but New Zealand weather tends to change between all the seasons on one hunting trip. Something easy to pack and stow when the going got hot, which was light enough to wear while

still providing a full range of movement for shooters and anglers, and could still keep off squalls and downpours; that was William Broome’s aim.

He put his skills as a tailor to the test, utilising a secret waterproofing recipe he is rumoured to have brought with him when he emigrated to Taranaki from England. The original garment he produced was a short-sleeved shirt of

the kind hunters could wear with trousers and suspenders, keeping their arms free.

The very first batches were sold as ‘one size fits all’, not due to any kind of shipping and handling shenanigans, but because the process used to make the Swanndri waterproof was also known to make it shrink in uneven ways. Some ended up bigger than others, so Mr Broome tried to keep all of his products roughly the same size.

It’s fair to say that, size issues aside, the Swanndri was a hit. In 1927 another Kiwi tailor, John McKendric, added a hood, long sleeves and a lace-up front, completing the template we know today. He bought the rights to the Swanndri name in 1964, by which time the hardy bush shirts were an unofficial uniform for outdoors adventurers all over the nation.

Here’s a salute to the ‘swanny’, for long service to farmers, hunters, hikers and adventure seekers across New Zealand. ¢

p Hunters 110 years ago had to repurpose working clothes for duty in the bush, until a clever tailor invested the Swanndri

Moo-ving Day

Raising a glass

u by Amy Fifita

This year, World Milk Day celebrates the dairy industry’s step towards becoming

World Milk Day was started in 2001 by the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations and celebrates the nutritional dairy product recognising the global dairy industry. It coincides with Gypsy Day on June 1.

This year, the day is showcasing the reduction of the industry’s environmental footprint. Dairy farmers across New Zealand and the world continue to address ways to become more sustainable while still producing dairy products for consumers.

In New Zealand, companies like DairyNZ and Fonterra work with farmers and provide options to aid in decreasing the industry’s environmental impact. There are various studies on how to make farms more sustainable for future generations.

Dairy farmers in New Zealand have been addressing the industry’s impact on the environment in various ways, by riparian planting and soil health practices. The health benefits and the people who work towards production are celebrated. Milk is a vital part of life for many worldwide. It is not only farmers who contribute toward raising awareness. Various professionals such as chefs, doctors and nutritionists take the day as

an opportunity to share information about the product’s health benefits.

The day also recognises the significance of milk as a staple product worldwide. It is a source of various nutrients such as calcium, zinc, magnesium, potassium and other vitamins. It also includes high-quality protein. The liquid is a useful ingredient in cheese, yoghurt sauces and other dairy creations.

It plays a massive role in the global economy and is one of New Zealand’s top exports. In October last year, the country produced 15,630 metric tonnes of milk, a dip from usually producing more than 20,000 metric tonnes.

The international celebration started with 40 countries and has expanded to about 100 nations joining the world to salute the dairy industry. Every country commemorates it in their own way from quizzes and poems to social media campaigns.

For more information or celebration ideas, go to worldmilkday.org and join the various people and companies from around the world celebrating the product and the people. ¢

in

midst

global warming issues.

p June 1 is World Milk Day, a celebration of the product and people that help make the creamy substance possible; this year, there is a focus on how the industry has become more sustainable

Don’t believe in ‘Snow White’ stories

u by Jane Gray

Beware the ‘poisoned apples’ of promises that aren’t affordable or ever going to come true.

Cost of living — Why is it so complicated to take GST off fresh food? Australia has done it.

Health — What has changed since the new entity was set up, at huge expense? It hasn’t stopped strikes or given staff better conditions. Serious wait times are still a major problem, and the types of treatments that are available are still not readily accessible.

Education — For parents of two-year-olds, the Budget brought great news. Starting in the new year, there will be 20 hours of free early childhood care, but what resourcing has been put in place for the facilities to cope with the influx of children? So, will it really make a difference?

Youth offending — Nothing seems to be working to stop this, and I’m not sure that sending youth to a military-type establishment is the answer either. It takes a village to raise a child so where is the village? How do we get that village to work? Our police force is dealing

with repeat offenders regularly; how demoralising it must be for them to see nothing changing.

Infrastructure — What a joke! Our roads, water, power and connectivity are horrendous. If you saw a house in the same state, in all likelihood, it would be condemned. Instead of inspecting

and regulating potable water sources, which have served rural households for decades without ill effect, perhaps the central government should do a better job of supporting local governments to build resilient infrastructure fit for growth and progress.

Business — Whether it be a main street shop or a farm, what is being proposed to support them? It’s certainly not tax relief. Instead, costs just go up and guess what happens? Those costs are passed onto the consumer. If we want better wages paid to staff (and we all do), then give tax breaks to small and medium-sized New Zealandowned businesses. That would allow businesses to improve wages without passing on the cost to the consumer. Admittedly, there may be some that would possibly not pass on these benefits, so perhaps some sort of reporting via the Inland Revenue Department and the PAYE system could monitor this.

The Resource Management Act — The most restrictive document for growth; who is going to jump in boots and all and take it on? Lots of promises over the years, but all that seems to happen is it just gets more cumbersome.

Global Warming is real — Believe it or not, no one can deny there is certainly a problem with our oceans, and yes, the weather seems to have become more intense. Who is going to deal with the forestry industry and slash in relation to this? Why isn’t the industry tidying up its own mess, and who is going to address the fact that beaches close because of sewage running into them?

Emissions are a problem worldwide, but the main focus in New Zealand seems to be farming. What about the industries that operate with coal that is imported from other high-emission countries?

We have two main parties that promise the earth and deliver a spade and minor parties with lots of good ideas but are then restricted by the major parties because it’s not their idea. If only the promises given could be delivered on — because actions speak much louder than words. You wouldn’t stay with a partner who never followed through, so why tolerate governments who do the same? ¢

DARGAVILLE 7 Tui Crescent

Home, Ready and Waiting

On an elevated, quiet, cul-de sac sits this three bedroom, two bathroom home with spacious open plan living and dining area and a modern kitchen. The home is fully insulated plus a heat pump. The property is a fully fenced on a 677sqm flat section with tidy and well-maintained gardens with a large garden shed and single garage. Great location.

3 2 1 $639,000

Cindy Younger

M 027 278 2309

E cindy.younger@pggwrightson.co.nz

Keegan Dalbeth

M 027 250 7575

E keegan.dalbeth@pggwrightson.co.nz

pggwre.co.nz/DAG37903

Why choose us?

DARGAVILLE

Tidy Lifestyle With Views

Very tidy family home, four bedrooms two bathrooms, separate family room, separate laundry area, open plan living that leads to a large, decked area, perfect for entertaining with spectacular views. Internal access to a large double garage with workshop and storage area, post and rail fencing, great plantings and sheltered areas, large lawn for the kids or maybe to run some sheep or whatever you desire.

A low maintenance home / lifestyle property with a great location being just out of the Dargaville township, give us a call today to book a viewing time.

pggwre.co.nz/DAG37937

PGG WRIGHTSON REAL ESTATE LTD, LICENSED UNDER THE REAA 2008 RURAL | LIFESTYLE | RESIDENTIAL

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Looking for a career in Real Estate? We are looking for agents to join our teams in Dargaville, Whangarei, Waipapa and Wellsford.

We are New Zealand's only national non-franchised Real Estate Company, which means no franchise fees (more in your pocket).

M 027 281 0654 E jduder@pggwrightson.co.nz

WHAT’S ON?

Markets

Kaihu Hall Market — 3rd Saturday each month

10am–noon. Phone Robin 09 439 4878.

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

Paparoa Artisan Market — 4th Sunday monthly

12–4pm. Paparoa Memorial Hall.

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

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.

Arapohue Tennis Club — Starts Monday 24th October

6.15pm onwards at A&P Showgrounds. Contact Raewyn 09 439 2152 or Sue 09 439 2154.

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

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

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

Badminton — Wednesday evenings 7pm–9pm at the Dargaville High School Gym. Phone 021 439 157.

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

Dargaville Aero Club — Learn to fly, free of tuition charges, Gyrocopter, Texan, Stork. Contact Peter 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 Contract Bridge Club — Tuesdays 12.45pm and Thursdays 6.45pm at the Kiosk, Memorial Park, Logan St, Dargaville. dargavillebridge@gmail.com or phone Peter 09 439 2437 or 022 405 6439.

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

Dargaville Friendship Club — meets 2nd Tuesday of the month at 10am at the NW Boating Club. For info phone Brian 09 439 5959.

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

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

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

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

Dargaville Museum — Open every day except Christmas Day and Anzac morning 9–4 until Labour Day then 9–5 until Easter. Volunteers, visitor hosts and members welcome. Phone 09 439 7555.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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

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

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

Narcotics Anonymous — Tuesdays 1pm–2pm. 1/12 Kapia Street, Dargaville.

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

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

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

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

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

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. Contact Secretary/Treasurer Betty Bruce 09 439 4344. Ruawai Gardening Club — Meetings or other activities held on 3rd Thursday of every month, Feb to Nov at the Ruawai Bowling Club, 10am start. New members welcome. Phone Merele 09 439 2335. Stepping Out Leisure Marching Team — Tuesday 4pm–5pm at the Dargaville Town Hall. Contact Sharon 027 439 5634 or 09 439 5634 for more details. Vaccine Passport required.

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

Strength & Conditioning — Baylys Beach Community Centre, Mondays and Fridays. Small class groups. 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.

Wednesday Crafts — Every Wednesday 10am. Morning tea and lunch will be served. Variety of crafts. The Kiosk at Memorial Park. All welcome. $8per session Contact Judy 027 316 3940.

TIDE CHART

PUZZLE TIME

ACROSS 1 Oneness (5)

4 By any means whatsoever (2,4,2,2,5) 14 Stop or slow the progress of (5) 15 Nervous (5)

Sudoku

ACROSS: 1 Icing, 4 Bite one’s tongue, 11 Focus, 14 Realm, 15 Accomplices, 16 Fruitful, 19 Opinion, 20 Avoid, 21 Twentieth, 24 Dramatist, 26 Street, 27 Bounce, 31 Chant, 32 Academia, 34 Struck dumb, 38 Zealous, 39 Blazer, 40 Stormy, 41 Fair, 42 Statute, 45 Dying words, 50 Laziest, 54 Rope, 55 Fiasco, 56 Rattle, 57 Pasture, 60 Piano stool, 61 Irritate, 62 Inlet, 65 Endure, 66 Banish, 67 Goes to bed, 72 Vibration, 73 Mania, 74 Varnish, 79 Impounds, 80 Charismatic, 81 Doubt, 82 Egret, 83 Take to the hills, 84 Terry.

DOWN: 2 Creepy, 3 Nylon, 5 Itch, 6 Evolves, 7 Napkin, 8 Suit, 9 Ovenware, 10 Earwig, 11

Flintlocks, 12 Cafe, 13 Salvage, 17 Roomy, 18 Infectious, 22 Stuck, 23 Insulate, 25 Ringlet, 26 Sparrow, 28 Threat, 29 Amazon, 30 Pummel, 33 Delay, 35 Burnt, 36 Punt, 37 User, 42 Scrap, 43 Applauds, 44 Evicts, 45 Disloyalty, 46 Iron, 47 Garnish, 48 Outcry, 49 Delft, 51 Ajar, 52 Intense, 53 Screen, 58 Tourniquet, 59 Stash, 63 Ricochet, 64 Coral, 65 Enquire, 68 Origami, 69 Credit, 70 Hassle, 71 Isobar, 75 Noose, 76 Spar, 77 Brat, 78 Vial.

Fill the grid so that every column, every row and every 3x3 box contains the digits 1 to 9. All

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

FOR SALE

12MM UTILITY Cladding 2,440 x 1,200 $89. 2,745 x 1,200 $99. Scooters Plywood 09 438 6565.

6,800 LITRE Stainless Steel Vat for sale $1,500 ono. Phone Chris 021 646 050.

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

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

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

FENCING

FENCING, ALL types of fencing, pool, stockyards, post & rail, boundary plus… call Jeff 027 476 5458, $8.70 +GST.

FOR RENT

BOARD AVAILABLE in nice home. Central to Maungaturoto schools and shops. Female only. Phone 09 431 8837.

GARAGE SALE

GARAGE SALE 9 Pheonix Place. Not before 8am. Saturday 3rd June.

PHONE 09 439 6933

SEPTIC TANK SERVICES

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

TRADE & SERVICES

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

WINDOW & Door Repairs & Glazing, Insect Screens, Security and more — call me today. Phone 027 275 0918 or 09 439 6458. Kevin Sowter or visit my website: windowanddoors.co.nz — Window & Door Services Ltd.

Dargaville Bobcat Services

• Stump & Tree Removal

• Driveway Prep & Regrading

• Post Hole Borer

SITUATIONS

BEREAVEMENTS

Joseph Charles Hemi Ranginui

13th May, the day our world stopped

Dargaville Hunting & Fishing is hiring!

We are looking for a retail shop assistant. The hours will be flexible to suit a wider audience approximately 9am-3pm Tuesday to Friday & 8.30am-2pm Saturday, although this can be discussed with a successful applicant. The jobs main focus will be in and taking care of our clothing department, although other shop duties will be required; eg: customer service, data entry, pricing and general shop duties. The applicant must have excellent communication skills & be able to converse with all ages of customers, you must be reliable, honest and trustworthy but most of all have a high level of motivation, and enjoy everything outdoors and fit in with existing staff. If you think this could be you, send your C.V to jason.campbell@huntingandfishing.co.nz

• Calf Shed & Stockyard Cleaning

• Tip Truck Available

• Trencher

Phone or Txt Paul 09 439 5073 | 027 271 2022

GRAZING

GRAZING WANTED for 30-50 R1 in Dargaville area. Phone 022 376 5164.

PUREBRED SIMMENTAL Bulls for sale. Phone 09 439 6080 or 027 686 9620.

NURSERIES & PLANTS

GREVILLEA BRONZE Rambler, ground cover all ready. Now only $10 each. GOT2GO PLANTS, 55 West Coast Road, Te Kopuru, 09 439 5556.

POMEGRANATE PLANTS x50 only $4 each. Griselinia hedging $4 and $8 each. Pittosporum $1.50 to $10.

Bottlebrush Corokia, Photinia all ready now for planting. Got2Go Plants. Open 10am to 4pm Tuesday to Monday this week . 09 439 5556. Sorry no eftpos. Internet banking available. 55 West Coast Road, Te Kopuru.

PET SUPPLIES

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.

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.

PUBLIC NOTICES

ACOUSTIC MUSIC Blackboard Concert — First Thursday of the month — 7–9.30pm, next is 1st June 2023, Kaipara Community Centre, Hokianga Road, Dargaville. $2 entry, $2 raffle. Performers and audience welcome. Phone Allan 09 439 6933 or 021 439 697. An enjoyable night to be part of, sit back and be entertained by some great local talent.

ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS both Dargaville AA Meetings are held at the church, 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. DARGAVILLE HEALING rooms 7pm Tuesdays. No charge & no appointment necessary. Lion of Judah Building, River Road. All Welcome. Check us out on Facebook. INLAND REVENUE are holding a tax clinic for IR3 filers only on 15 June 2023 at Citizens Advice Bureau, Dargaville. For more information and to book an appointment, please contact Citizens Advice Bureau on 09 439 6100.

A year of struggle and despair ended for Joseph

Our Whanau want to thank our friends, extended family, neighbours at number 99, and our incredible community for easing us through the week that followed, and for giving your time, Koha, energy, food, materials, flowers, music, photos, and more, toward the preparations for Joe’s amazing send off. We could not have stayed standing without you.

God please bless our Joseph and help him now to find; The Peace that he deserves

From the anguish left behind.

May all of those who love him and those whose life he touched remember Joseph’s lovely face and his smile that meant so much.

God please bless our Joseph, it’s now his turn to rest. For while he was upon this earth, He gave his very best.