Cambridge News | April 9, 2026

Safety call follows death

By Mary Anne Gill

The trainers of a racehorse hit by a truck on Peake Road and later euthanised at an equine hospital want urgent improvements to signage and road safety in one of Cambridge’s busiest training corridors.

Max Van Lierde was riding the three-year-old gelding home from morning track work and was at the intersection of Peake Rd and Nagar Lane when the incident happened shortly before 7am last week.

The horse, which raced as Catch’s The Worm and was known at the stables as Nathan, was struck by a concrete truck about 200m away from the southern end of Te Ara o Te Waharoa Bridge over Waikato Expressway.

Max managed to get off the horse in time and escaped injury.

Despite being walked back to the stables across the road and transported to an equine hospital within minutes, the decision was made to put the horse down during surgery.

Max and his wife Samantha train race and event horses from their Peake Road property, the last one before the bridge heading north.

Nathan’s death has highlighted long-standing safety issues on roads increasingly shared by heavy vehicles, cyclists, pedestrians and horses, she said.

Peake Road carries an 80km/h speed limit and has seen steadily increasing traffic volumes as the Hautapu industrial area has expanded.

The bridge opened in January

2015 and is used by pedestrians, cyclists and horses, while the road itself is a key route for freight and commuter traffic.

A warning sign advising motorists of horses, cyclists and pedestrians is in place, but to motorists travelling south from the bridge it is obscured by overgrown bushes and is difficult to see.

“People might not even realise they’re entering a training area,” said Samantha.

The accident happened during what should have been a routine

crossing. It was quite dark and daylight saving was still in place.

“We’re always careful, we slow down, we’re watching the traffic. Most drivers are really good - but some speed up when they see you.”

Nathan had one race start, finishing sixth at Pukekohe on March 13, and was scheduled to race again the day after the accident.

“He was a fit, healthy three-yearold with a future,” Samantha said.

Continued on page 2

Hamilton Model Railroad Exhibition

Saturday 11 and Sunday 12 April 10am to 4pm Te Awamutu Events Centre

Safety call follows death

“There was nothing out of the ordinary. He was good with traffic.”

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Her husband Max was returning from trackwork when Nathan became unsettled near the roadside. He dismounted when it became clear he couldn’t move the horse out of the way of the truck in time.

“He did everything he could,” she said.

The truck driver was “really upset” too.

The incident has prompted calls from the Cambridge Business Chamber for action. It has written to Waipā mayor Mike Pettit urging immediate safety improvements on Peake and Racecourse Roads.

In the letter, chief executive Kelly Bouzaid said the fatality, along with a reported nearmiss involving a rider, highlighted a corridor under increasing pressure and no longer fit for purpose without additional safety measures.

“Cambridge is widely recognised as the equine capital of New Zealand but the growth of the Hautapu industrial precinct has resulted in a marked increase in heavy vehicle and general traffic volumes.”

The chamber is seeking clarity from the council, as the road-controlling authority, on responsibilities for risk mitigation in shared-

On the beat

“This is not simply a transport issue,” Bouzaid said. “It is about protecting people, safeguarding a cornerstone industry, and ensuring infrastructure keeps pace with growth.”

The safety concerns come as plans are already under way to eventually move racing facilities away from Cambridge as the town continues to grow.

The Van Lierdes own their 10-hectare property and usually have between 10 and 15 horses in work, and around 40 on the farm. Like many trainers, they sometimes truck horses to the track when traffic is particularly heavy, but that is not always practical.

“There are horses crossing Peake Road and Racecourse Road every morning,” Samantha said.

Riders are vigilant, horses are educated for traffic, but they are fit racehorses.

“You can do everything right and still not be safe.”

Racing provided a brief lift over Easter when horses trained by the Van Lierdes performed well at the Whanganui Racing

Burns on Burns Street

I hope everyone managed to get a break over the Easter weekend.

Starting with a few recent good catches: Cambridge staff last week found and arrested a recidivist shoplifter who was wanted for four different thefts across Cambridge and Hamilton. She will now be appearing in court.

Te Awamutu staff attended a crash involving a single vehicle, where the driver had gone straight through an intersection, hit the curb and shrubbery. Breath test procedures were conducted and recorded a breath alcohol level of almost five times the legal limit. The driver will also be facing charges.

In another incident, a stolen car was detected driving into Te Awamutu and soon fled from police. After being stopped through the deployment of spikes, one youth was immediately arrested while a second fled. A successful track by a police dog handler resulted in both youths now facing associated charges.

Back in Cambridge last weekend, a report of a car doing a burnout on Burns Street quickly resulted in the vehicle being located outside a Leamington address. It was immediately impounded for 28 days. The driver will face a charge of sustained loss traction.

I regularly remind everyone to ring 111 if police attendance is required at the time (105 where reporting is delayed). What I would

like to mention now, is what comes next, especially when you are an independent witness to something.

Making that initial 111 call is great to ensure a unit is aware and can be dispatched to assist. How effectively we can address the situation, however, may depend on our ability to obtain ongoing and timely updates. If you call us and drive on, away from the scene of the incident, it often leaves us with unanswered questions as to where offenders may have gone, any developments or escalation in the situation or changes in location.

If you’re making the call about an unfolding incident or situation, I would encourage you to remain in the area observing from a safe position. This greatly assists the staff that are responding.

In some cases, an informant has moved on and we arrive to find no evidence of the people or incident described. That leaves us wondering whether people have simply left the area, been picked up by a vehicle or are still in the area but hiding from view.

In the case of driving offences, a vehicle’s onward route and progress becomes uncertain. If it is safe and possible to do so, staying online to 111 or calling back with updated information when things change will greatly assist us. Safer communities together.

Club’s Easter Monday meeting. Gitano finished second in race two, while Scarlett Spell recorded her first win in race three. It was pleasing for the owners and the team, but it did little to ease the loss, said Samantha.

The News visited the area on Tuesday and observed vehicles travelling at speed along Peake and Racecourse roads as horses crossed under the watchful eyes of riders.

For Samantha and Max Van Lierde, Nathan’s death is a line in the sand.

With plans already under way to eventually move training and racing out of Cambridge to Tamahere, they say safety improvements are needed now for those still working on the roads every day.

Basketball first

Former St Peters School, Cambridge student Charlisse Leger-Walker has become the first New Zealander to be part of a National College Athletic Association (NCAA) title winning team. She played a key role in the University of California’s 7951 win over South Carolina. Hamilton born Leger-Walker, 24, became the youngest Tall Fern when she debuted as a 16-year-old and her mother Leanne Walker and sister Krystal are also internationals.

Foot count up

The Autumn Festival’s Main Street Carnival on March 29 saw a 75 per cent uplift in foot traffic, according to Cambridge Chamber of Commerce’s Bellwether pedestrian snapshot. That brought an extra 4000 people into the CBD, a clear signal that when reasons are created for people to come together, to linger and experience Cambridge, it pays dividends, says the Chamber.

Slip sliding away

A middle-aged male pedestrian suffered a head injury when he slipped on wet pavers outside Alpino Restaurant in Cambridge last week. Bystanders said the footpath pavers around the CBD can be treacherous after rain. Waipā District Council has been asked for comment.

Owl Farm Day

St Peter’s School will host its annual Owl Farm Open Day on Saturday where the school’s working farm is opened to the public. The event attracted more than 800 people in 2025.

Dog Show

The Cambridge Kennel Association stages its annual pedigree show this weekend at the Karapiro Domain. Club secretary-treasurer Sue Chaytor is encouraging the public to attend “but please do not bring your family pet”.

Headstone at last for Adam

By Viv Posselt

Cambridge man Alan Sherris has spent much of the past few years cleaning up military headstones in Hautapu, Leamington and Pukerimu cemeteries.

As a Cambridge RSA member and Vietnam veteran, he is mindful of

the importance of each one and feels deeply that those buried beneath them deserve to have their graves marked and maintained, and their stories told.

With the approach of Anzac Day, a new headstone is to be unveiled at Hautapu Cemetery, marking the resting place of a highly

decorated New Zealand WW1 soldier Sergeant Adam Cunningham.

The public service and unveiling on April 19 will see the new headstone replace the empty patch of earth at the gravesite. Cunningham’s story will be told – that of his arrival in New Zealand, his military service overseas, his return and his settling here in Cambridge, until his death at age 53.

The NZ Remembrance Army’s social media page describes Cunningham as the forgotten hero of Cambridge.

It adds: “born with grit in his veins, he served in the First Battalion of the New Zealand Rifle Brigade during the Great War, where he proved himself a soldier of extraordinary bravery. Twice decorated for gallantry under fire, he was the kind of leader men would follow into hell itself”.

Sherris, who has worked extensively alongside the Cambridge RSA’s Remembrance Army, a group

focused on the cleaning and maintenance of veterans’ graves in all three cemeteries, said it was the stories behind each stone that mattered the most.

“We’ve done 63 in total,

and there are many more to do,” Sherris said. “It is some of the most satisfying work you could do. It is the human story behind each headstone that is so important.”

Look... there’s another VeeDub

Waipā was awash with Volkswagens over Easter as more than 150 of them came for the Cambridge nationals over four days.

The event, based at Karāpiro, celebrated decades of VW culture brought together a lineup of vehicles ranging from restored classics to modern performance.

Hosted by the Auckland and Waikato VW owners clubs, the show highlights included a show and shine display and a cruise to the Waikato to the classics museum in Railside Place, Hamilton. The event has run for more than 30 years.

Among the cars on display

The 1979 Volkswagen Golf GTI driven by Sir Stirling Moss and Denny Hulme is a historic New Zealand race car, imported by Sir Colin Giltrap for the Benson

Royal engagement sealed

By Joshua Smith

A year after being knighted, Brendan Lindsay, and his wife Lady Jo, will head to England to fulfil a royal engagement –watching their multiple Group One winner Joliestar compete at Royal Ascot.

Sir Brendan, who owns thoroughbred nursery Cambridge Stud alongside his wife, was recognised in last year’s King’s Birthday honours for his services to business and philanthropy.

Their familiar gold and black checked silks have been carried by the likes of Group One winners Probabeel, Kahma Lass, Pinarello and Joliestar.

The Lindsays purchased Joliestar out of Segenhoe Thoroughbreds’ 2022 Inglis Australian Easter Yearling Sale draft for a little over $1 million and she was entrusted to the care of Sydney trainer Chris Waller.

The now five-year-old mare has been a standout for the expat Kiwi, for whom she has won 10 of her 21 starts, including five at Group One level.

She earned her latest Group One scalp at Randwick on Saturday in the Gr.1 T J Smith Stakes (1200m), and her performance sealed her ticket to England to compete at Royal Ascot in June

The Northern Hemisphere raid has been on the cards for some time and Waller was pleased his mare put in a worthy performance to give her connections the confidence to press forward with their plan.

Fellow expat and Cambridge raised James McDonald has formed a formidable partnership with Waller, and was in the saddle on Saturday to guide Joliestar to another elite-level success in Cambridge Stud’s silks.

“She is flying, she has had the best prep of her life and that’s indicated with her form line,” McDonald said.

“She is just a wonderful sprinter and the horse herself has just been a marvel. It is just nice to ride a mare in form that is doing the job.

Time with Tim

“The connections are obviously Kiwis and it is always good to team up with them.”

Waller said Joliestar will now be freshened and will do the majority of her preparation in Australia before flying out to England where she will likely contest the Gr.1 Jubilee Stakes (1200m).

“She will have a bit of downtime now and we will work back from Ascot and do our normal jumpouts and trials,” Waller said. “She goes so well fresh, so she will represent us all well – Australia and New Zealand.”

- Loveracing News Desk

Honouring Margaret’s memory

By Mary Anne Gill

The life of Margaret Evelyn, who died after a pin oak tree uprooted and fell on her in Cambridge nearly four years ago, is set to be publicly acknowledged.

A plaque will be installed in Victoria Square at the base of the pin oak planted in her memory a year later.

Web stats

A News in Brief posting topped our Cambridge News website statistics last month and showed the benefit of having a news vehicle for readers in between print editions.

The posting included a call from police for help in identifying offenders to a serious assault in Mātangi.

Visits were up 12 per cent on February. The top page was e-Editions where we post full pdf versions of the newspaper for those who cannot wait for the printed version.

Coverage from the Waipā Fun Run, work starting on Waikato Expressway, an old story about James McDonald winning the Melbourne Cup in 2021 and Fieldays’ news about its new village centre rounded out the top five.

The top columnist for the month was Waikato Regional councillor Liz Stolwyk talking about how fresh thinking is needed around public transport issues.

Waipā District Council confirmed the plan after questions from The News about whether a marker was planned.

Youngest son Kristen Hapi said he was pleased his vivacious mother would be commemorated. She was 81 and returning to her home from a workout at the gym when a storm hit and she sheltered under the oak tree which was ironically the same age as her.

Despite efforts by emergency services at the scene and medical staff at Waikato Hospital, Margaret died two and a half hours later.

“We would have loved it if there was a small reminder on the new tree at some stage. There was talk of something being made from the tree at the time, but we’ve not heard back,” Hapi said.

The News raised the question with the council after a plaque was installed under a European lime planted on King Charles III’s coronation day on May 6.

In response, group manager Customer and Community Services Sally Sheedy said the council continued to work closely with Margaret’s family to ensure any recognition reflected their wishes.

“Following recent discussions, it has been agreed that a piece of wood from the tree will be provided to the family for their personal use, and another piece will be used to create a small

plaque to acknowledge ‘Margaret’s Tree’ on site,” she said.

“We understand this remains a sensitive matter for the family, and they have indicated they would prefer a simple, low-key approach. We will continue to support their wishes and keep them informed as plans progress.”

Wood from the original pin oak

had been stored by the council since the accident. There have been various plans discussed around either using it for a memorial seat or rebuilding the nearby heritage shed with it.

Sheedy told Hapi last week the wood had not kept well in storage. This was in part because of the type of tree and the wood itself, she said.

Parks’ staff have been asked to find a piece from the tree which could be provided to the family and a piece which could be made into a small plaque to recognise Margaret’s Tree. Hapi said he and his family were grateful and pleased Margaret’s life would be recognised.

Waikato Expressway works

NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi is undertaking significant asphalt works on the Cambridge section of the Waikato Expressway from March to late 2026.

Delays are expected, particularly at peak travel times. Motorists are advised to plan ahead, allow extra time for journeys, and take care when travelling through work sites.

Tamahere off-ramps remain open throughout the works

– September

Stage 3 – June-July Hautapu southbound on/off-ramps closed

Stage 1 – March-April

Stage 2 – April-May No on/off-ramps closed

closed

and procedures

ON SHAKY GROUND

Ancient tsunamis

By Janine Krippner

A lot of work goes into understanding ancient tsunamis and their impacts.

The Storegga Slide is a giant submarine landslide that occurred thousands of years ago below the sea, offshore from southern Norway.

This is one of the largest landslides we know of - 2400 to 3200 cubic kilometres flowed out to around 800km from where it began.

The resulting tsunami impacted areas that now include Norway, Greenland, Scotland, and England. It took a lot of investigation work to understand this.

Out in the field, once a tsunami deposit has been recognised and described similar deposits can be identified elsewhere. Lab work can then provide an age for when it formed. Identifying similar deposits of the same age builds a picture of what areas were hit.

For impacts, the tsunami run-up height is important; this is the height that the water reaches above sea level. If a tsunami hit today, we could walk up to the highest points on land and measure it as it varies along the coastline.

For ancient tsunamis this takes much more work.

One method is investigating tsunami deposits within old lake beds. Under normal conditions sediment settles down through water, forming a mud layer. This can be interrupted by large storms or a tsunami washing new material into the lake. Tsunamis can transport sand and gravel from the sea plus ripped-up clasts of land that the water crossed. Marine fossils can confirm the ocean source.

For the Storegga tsunami, researchers found deposits within lakes at increasing

heights above sea level, then at lakes above a certain height they weren’t there. This gives a range of runup heights between those lakes. Their age connects deposits across regions.

The Storegga Slide occurred during the end of the Last Glacial Maximum, when ice sheets covered large parts of Europe. This adds complexity.

Having so much water locked up as ice changes a few things. Sea level was not the same as it is now, so scientists must figure that out too. Part of understanding past sea level is finding evidence through the geologic record, building a global picture through time.

Another complexity is where the land was at this location, at that time. Thick ice is heavy and can push the land itself down. When those thick ice sheets melted, the land rebounded upwards to where it is now. The sea level was lower, and so was the land. The level of the tide at that time also matters. Many pieces of the puzzle must come together.

All this work led to run-up heights reaching 13 metres in Norway near the landslide, at least 20 metres in the Shetland Islands, around six in northeast Scotland, and around five in northeast England. A seemingly simple result required so much work.

Studies like this that help us understand what happened in the past show us what could happen in the future, and therefore, what actions we must take to protect ourselves. Figuring out geologic events across the ages contributes to building safer and more resilient communities.

The unseen dangers

By Murray Smith, Bridges Church

What you can’t see can’t hurt you…

This advertising headline for a water-tank cleaning service, caught my attention. It went on to state that such a wild statement has zero truth to it. It made the point that harmful unseen bacteria can lurk in water tanks. Of course multitudes of invisible things can hurt us.

That doesn’t hand us a life-sentence of living in fear under some kind of siege complex. It means there’s wisdom in being aware of facts.

Many elements not visible to us could be harmful and we’re well advised to be informed in taking appropriate precautions. A family I knew lost a child who dived into hot mineral pools many years ago. That tragedy resulted from a rare occurrence of amoebic meningitis - microscopic amoeba entering the brain of a fully immersed swimmer through the nasal passages, causing fatal brain tissue damage.

Micro-biology has identified a host of potentially harmful things we could never be aware of merely relying on eyesight. Similarly, we cannot see ‘radiation’ from X-rays with the naked eye - but there’s good reason that radiographers when doing X-rays or scans, slip behind a screen or protective barrier as a precaution against ongoing exposure causing damage to their health.

Another comparably illogical statement to “What you can’t see can’t hurt you”, is, “What you don’t know can’t hurt you”. What a person doesn’t know could kill them. Ignorance of inherent danger for example, in a faulty electrical fitting doesn’t prevent it being harmful.

What you don’t know can hurt you significantly, like a serious undiagnosed

medical issue such as a brain tumour.

Dangers that we are unaware of can be the most damaging and just being blissfully ignorant of them offers no basis for peace.

Confronting uncomfortable truth is better than remaining ignorant even though sometimes becoming informed, might initially be troubling…it’s still better than ignorance.

There’s many statements in the Bible about not remaining ignorant -particularly of spiritual truth. Complacent lack of understanding and knowledge, leads to deception and destruction.

There is a distinction between innocent ignorance and wilful ignorance, though neither end well. I believe many people today are passively ignorant of spiritual realities due to lack of exposure to truth or opportunity to hear about God’s love for them and His desire to ensure their eternal salvation. They are unaware of the spiritual battle warring for their soul.

The fact is, two very real spiritual ‘kingdoms’ exist and every individual stands in allegiance to one or the other. The unseen evil rule of darkness is intent on the contamination of humanity to the point of its destruction.

God’s provision for our free transference out of darkness to light includes forgiveness and wholeness - it’s by His redeeming gift of mercy and grace, nothing to do with any claim we mistakenly hold onto of being a “good person”.

We all fall short, but through faith in Jesus Christ we’re made ‘right’ and can discover peace and perspective in uncertain times.

The next move

By Peter Nicholl

The Reserve Bank will take its next Official Cash Rate decision the day before this column is published but after I wrote it.

This will be the second cash rate decision of the Reserve Bank since governor Anna Bremen took up office in November. The new governor could scarcely be facing a more challenging set of circumstances.

Some of her challenges come from the New Zealand Reserve Bank’s own past decisions. Throughout 2025, the bank reduced its cash rate substantially even though inflation was near, and at times slightly over, the top of its inflation target of 1-3 per cent. I found this surprising because one of the first things the current Government did in 2023 was to change the Reserve Bank’s mandate from a dual focus on growth and inflation to a sole mandate on inflation.

The Reserve Bank has ignored this mandate change.

Both their analysis and their cash rate decisions since 2023 only make sense if they were still operating with a dual mandate. They also moved their cash rate down much more than most of our trading partners. The result can be seen in our exchange rate.

The New Zealand dollar has depreciated significantly, especially against the Australian dollar. A depreciating exchange rate is good for exporters.

But it is bad for inflation and inflation is what the Reserve Bank is supposed to be focused on.

The Reserve Bank therefore put the new governor in a position where there was only one direction the cash rate could go – up. The only question was when the Reserve Bank would need to start raising the cash rate.

Earlier in the year, most commentators thought that wouldn’t need to be until the

last quarter of 2026 and possibly not until early 2027.

Then along came the Middle East shambles.

Energy prices rose substantially and are still at elevated levels. Central Bankers usually ‘look through’ the first-round effects of temporary shocks to prices. But this shock could be different and will make the interest rate decisions of the Reserve Bank and other Central Banks difficult.

First, is this energy price shock a temporary one? That depends on how long the war in the Middle East continues. Who knows? But it has already gone on longer than most people expected when it started.

Second, it is not just the prices of petrol and diesel that are rising. Rises in these prices quickly feed into the prices of just about everything else.

Faced with these huge uncertainties, there are two opposite types of risk the Reserve Bank faces. One is act now, but the Middle East crisis gets resolved quickly, energy prices return to previous levels and the rise in interest rates proves to be unnecessary.

The second is wait in the hope that energy prices will come back down and don’t get embedded into generalised inflation but the opposite happens. For New Zealand, I think the second risk is much the bigger one.

If I was on the Reserve Bank’s Monetary Policy Committee I would have voted to raise the cash rate by 25 basis points to make it clear that the Reserve Bank was determined to prevent higher inflation getting entrenched.

I doubt that’s what the Reserve Bank will have done. Their words will change, they will say the current situation is a very risky. But they won’t take action.

When foresight pays off

By Mary Anne Gill

There are moments when a council decision, debated and doubted at the time, suddenly looks very smart indeed. Waikato Regional Council’s move to electric buses is one of them.

As households and businesses brace themselves against volatile fuel prices, the sight of quiet, zero-emission buses gliding through Cambridge, Te Awamutu and Kihikihi feels less like an environmental gesture and more like practical common sense.

Credit where it is due.

Back in mid-2023, when the regional council confirmed the Cambridge (Route 20) and Te Awamutu (Route 24) services would transition from diesel to electric, the headlines focused on emissions and sustainability. But the decision was always about resilience as much as climate ambition. Two of the region’s busiest routes were identified early as suitable for electrification, supported by new depots, charging infrastructure and a more frequent timetable.

That planning began to pay off in April 2024, when Waikato’s first electric bus fleet officially took over Waipā services.

Six new electric buses replaced diesel vehicles, doubling weekday services and increasing weekend frequency, while covering some of the longest public transport distances in the country. Each bus typically travels between 350 and 500 kilometres a day, well beyond the national average, proof that electric buses are no longer just short-hop city toys.

What matters now, as fuel prices bite, is that these buses are not tethered to the rollercoaster of global oil markets.

They are charged overnight, off-peak, at dedicated depots in Leamington and Kihikihi,

and batteries take two to four hours to fully recharge. While diesel operators watch pump prices climb, Waikato’s electric fleet gets on with the job.

That did not happen by accident.

Waipā District Council deserves recognition for quietly doing the unglamorous but essential work of making land available for depots and charging infrastructure. Without those long-term leases and local co-operation, the electric transition simply would not have been possible. The council’s support enabled new charging facilities on Waipā land, ensuring buses could be reliably charged and ready each day.

Too often, district councils are remembered for the things they say no to. In this case, Waipā said yes, and the region is better for it.

The buses themselves represent a step change in passenger experience.

Electric buses are quieter, smoother and more comfortable than their diesel predecessors, with benefits for passengers and for people living and working along the routes.

Reduced noise, no exhaust fumes and a more civilised ride make public transport more attractive, reflected in rising patronage since service frequencies increased.

None of this is to pretend the decision was easy. Waikato Regional Council has been upfront about the challenges: charging infrastructure, route length, battery capacity and timetable co-ordination all required careful planning. Electric buses cannot simply be dropped into a diesel system and expected to work.

The councils got it right. Now let’s support their decision.

ANNUAL PJ DRIVE IS BACK FOR 2026!

Students benefit from an adventure

By Viv Posselt

Six students from Cambridge High School’s Te Haerenga homeroom tested their personal limits recently when they went on the Spirit of Adventure Inspiration voyage.

The six CHS participants – three boys and three girls –were accompanied by James Morris and Emily Wright, both teachers at the school’s Whare Tautoko department.

The CHS crew joined a group that numbered 35 in all.

The annual five-day Spirit of Adventure Inspiration voyage provides an opportunity for young New Zealanders aged 16 to 30 who live with a disability to take part in the adventure of a lifetime. Participation is arranged by schools or organisations who support young people with disabilities.

Cambridge High’s Whare Tautoko is a learning support space aimed at supporting diversity and difference among young people. It was the Cambridge Lions Club that approached Morris to

ask if the school wanted to send some of their Whare Tautoko students along this year.

Cambridge Lions first vice president Jackie Gunn said the Spirit of Adventure’s Inspiration voyage has been a New Zealand Lions project for a number of years, subsidising most of the costs involved.

“Our club picked up the remaining costs of the voyage,” she said. “We funded it through our Cambridge Lions Youth Project, which meant all the families were required to do was get the students to and from Auckland, where the voyage started and finished.”

The inspiration voyage is designed to focus on building confidence and life skills. Participants learn to communicate with new people, live with them in extremely close quarters, develop leadership skills, work in teams and learn to be resilient.

The voyage called on them to sail the ship (put up and pack down the sails), climb the mast, do on-board

cleaning duties, do night watches, check the rigging and more, all working as part of a team. There was also time for plenty of enjoyment.

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The CHS crew were said to have returned with a whole new skillset, great memories and newfound confidence in their own abilities.

Rie hits 101 at pace

By Viv Posselt

Te Awamutu’s Rie de Haan celebrated her 101st birthday on March 27 with a schedule that would leave many far younger people in her wake.

The Te Ata Rest Home resident spent her birthday morning playing housie, then enjoyed an afternoon of high tea and music with family and rest-home residents. The following day, the celebrations continued on the farm with family and friends.

Rie remains impressively active. She is often out and about using her walker and joining in games. From time to time, she still pops into local creative fibre group meetings.

Rie was born in Holland in 1925. After studying nursing then marrying Joe de Haan in 1947, the couple migrated to New Zealand where Rie’s brother Pieter had settled. Their farming life took them around the region, and after Joe’s death in 1992, Rie finally learned to drive at age 65. She carried on farming for several years.

At her centenary celebration last year, she told The News that the secret to a long life was quite simple … “hard work”.

Building leadership capability

Waikato teachers are among 200 educators nationwide selected for a programme designed to grow confident, capable principals and strengthen school leadership for the future. Mary Anne Gill finds out more.

For Sharleen Nathan, leading the Ministry of Education’s new Aspiring Principal Programme at Waikato University is both professional and deeply personal.

She knows the programme from the inside. More than a decade ago, Nathan was herself an aspiring principal, grappling with the same questions now facing this year’s cohort - am I ready, what does the role really involve, and what kind of leader do I want to be?

“That experience changed the way I saw myself as a leader,” she says.

“It gave me confidence and it made me think bigger.”

Now director at Waikato University’s Te Whai Toi Tangata: Institute of Professional Learning she is overseeing the national delivery of a programme designed to prepare the next generation of school principals for one of the most demanding leadership roles in the country.

Waikato is the right place to base the programme, she says, because of its long-standing reputation for innovation, strong research foundations and deep, trusted

relationships with schools across the country.

The university is known for combining academic rigour with practical impact, and for designing professional learning grounded in the real work of schools rather than theory removed from practice.

Just as important is her own credibility. Nathan brings more than 25 years’ experience across classrooms, senior school leadership, the Ministry of Education and governance roles. She has worked as a Student Achievement Practitioner and Waikato professional learning and development lead, supported schools through major NCEA changes, and understands how policy plays out on the ground.

“I’ve been an aspiring principal myself,” she says.

“I know what it feels like to test your readiness and start thinking bigger.”

The programme starts in term two following investment in Budget 2025 and has attracted strong national interest.

All 200 places were filled, with 15 teachers from Waikato. Participants were chosen through a Ministry-led application and interview process and require the backing of their home schools.

Deputy Secretary Education Workforce Anna Welanyk says the programme responds to the increasing complexity of the principal role.

“Principals need a wide range of skills, as well as the ability to connect with students, families and communities,” she says.

“This programme provides intensive learning and practice opportunities to help participants build confidence and capability before stepping into the role.”

The programme - funded at $12.8 million over seven years, with an initial three-year delivery period and formal review points built in - was awarded to Waikato University following a highly competitive procurement process.

Unlike traditional leadership courses, the programme is designed to sit alongside participants’ existing roles.

“This is not a full-time course,” says Nathan.

“Participants complete their leadership inquiry within the context of their own school, applying what they learn directly to their day today leadership practice.”

The curriculum aligns closely with the Beginner Principal Programme and is delivered through a mix of online modules, leadership inquiry and face-to-face learning.

Each aspiring principal is supported through three key relationships: their home principal, a mentor principal from another school, and a programme facilitator who leads regional communities of practice.

Mentoring is one of the programme’s defining features.

“Being supported by a current, practising principal gives participants access to lived experience and honest insight into the realities of the role. That kind of support is invaluable.”

The programme also offers a reality check. Research shows many principals leave the role within their first five years, often due to workload and burnout.

“This gives people a chance to explore the full scope of the job - governance, finance, property, people leadership - and decide if and when they are ready,” Nathan says.

For school boards, the programme provides reassurance that candidates who complete it have been exposed to the full breadth of principalship.

“Our responsibility is to make sure people don’t step into principalship under-prepared,” Nathan says. “This programme is about confidence, capability and support - not throwing people in at the deep end.”

Selection marks both recognition

of their leadership potential and the beginning of a nationally supported pathway toward leading schools where students, staff and communities can thrive.

Strong leadership, prepared early, is the foundation of sustainable performance - in schools as in business. It is succession planning at scale: identifying talent early, investing deliberately, and preparing leaders before the role requires it.

Whangamatā Area School Principal Alistair Luke has put his name forward as a mentor, having been a graduate of the Aspiring Principal Programme in 2015.

“The role of a mentor is really to help participants understand the realities in the first instance but also open up a network of support if they do go on to become a principal,” says Luke.

“That network was one of the most valuable things for me in those first few years, when I was facing a constant stream of challenges I’d never seen before.”

The step up to principalship can be more complex than many expect.

“It’s one of those jobs where the experiences you have in preparation, as a classroom teacher or even a senior leader, don’t necessarily prepare you for the realities of principalship, especially in areas like finance and HR which you often don’t encounter until you’re in the role.”

He believes programmes for aspiring principals can help

address this gap.

“A programme like this can play a real part in building that workforce desire back up again, while also helping people understand whether principalship is the right path for them before they step into the role.”

Briefs…

Chasing glory

Champion Aussie trotting mare Keayang Zahara is a key part of Australia’s record eight raiders chasing the two marquee races at Cambridge’s Night of Champions tomorrow (Friday) night. The $1 million main race has attracted 10 starters. Each slot is worth $60,000 and the winning horse will take home $420,000. One of the country’s most successful modern acts, Drax Project will be playing the Night of Champions after party.

Daylight Saving

Clocks went back on Sunday. Daylight saving officially starts again on Sunday, September 27 at 2am, when clocks move forward to 3am. New Zealand observes 27 weeks of daylight saving to maximise evening light.

Firefighters compete

More than 140 firefighters will converge on Havelock North this weekend to compete in the United Fire Brigades’ Association North Island Firefighter Challenge.

Lots of life in print Protest success

There is still plenty of life left in print media, Good Local Media editor Roy Pilott told a Linkedin Hamilton event at Ebbett’s showroom at The Base.

Pilott was invited with Phillip Quay and Himanshu Parmar to discuss the changing face of media with an audience of about 40 businesspeople. He said news, film and music had been challenged by technological advances.

“In 1988 video rentals were drawing more revenue than the box office and the future of the film industry was in doubt,” he said. “The emergence of the world wide web saw music being shared free and the same doubts were raised about the future of that industry.

“But digital media has ensured the future of both – we rent and buy the latest films online, and through subscriptions to the likes of Spotify we pay more for music than we ever did.”

He said the news media’s response to the challenges of the digital words was more problematic and still not resolved.

“When the UK media

put their stories up online, the publishers had the comfort of knowing the likes of the Sun and Mirror would still be snapped up by the morning commuters.

“But the New Zealand market was different – we had an extremely high subscription rate to newspapers, and the move by major media companies to make news available when and where readers wanted it impacted heavily on print sales.”

He said while he did not necessarily agree with providing news free without an immediate paywall and there had been subsequent closures of many mastheads, the fact both national media newspaper publishing companies were still leading the way in providing news in New Zealand justified those decisions.

He said Good Local Media – which publishes the Cambridge News, Te Awamutu News, King Country News, Bay of Plenty and Waikato business newspapers employed a different model to national publishers.

Almost all its journalists

– including a trio with a combined total of about 150 years in the industry - were employed on part time contracts. Good Local Media has an office in Victoria St Cambridge, but it is used predominantly by advertising and layout staff – journalists work from home. It’s newspapers – all free - are eagerly snapped up and contained news which had not yet appeared online.

He said the modelwhich relied on advertising as its sole source of funding – was working. But it faced challenges. More and more organisations were testing the water to get publicity by investing in social media and communications advisors – then expecting free publicity from their “local” paper – claiming they didn’t have an advertising budget.

It was vital communities which still had their own community papers and wanted to keep them supported them, he said. Pilott spent 20 years at the Waikato Times, including as acting editor before completing his daily news career with a five-year stint as editor of the Taranaki Daily News.

Lions Club of Cambridge Charitable Trust

The Lions Club of Cambridge Charitable Trust gives out Grants monthly to many organisations.

Lions Shed

Lions Shed

Opening hours 8.30am -12pm Thursday & Saturday kitchenware, Bric a brac Clothing, Hardware, Whiteware, Electrical appliances, Furniture, Gardening/outdoor equipment and much more at very reasonable prices. and visit us at 26 Vogel Street Cambridge or check our Facebook page for weekly specials.

Opening hours 8.30am -12pm Thursday & Saturday

The grants for March 2026 totalled $13,900

We sell kitchenware, Bric a brac Clothing, Hardware, Whiteware, Electrical appliances, Furniture, Gardening/outdoor equipment and much more at very reasonable prices.

Come and visit us at 26 Vogel Street Cambridge or check our Facebook page for weekly specials.

We accept donations of goods in clean working condition, pick up of items can be arranged by calling 027-693-7953

Every 2nd Sunday of the month. Cambridge Memorial Park (Rugby Grounds) Open from 8.30am - 1pm

Lions Trash & Treasure Market

Come along to enjoy the many market stalls selling a variety of goods. Food caravans and entertainment. For stall bookings contact: cambridge@lionsclubs.org.nz

Every 2nd Sunday of the month. Cambridge Memorial Park (Rugby Grounds) Open from 8.30am-1pm

Every 2nd Sunday of the month. Cambridge Memorial Park (Rugby Grounds) Open from 8.30am-1pm

They were given to a local school, local sporting individual, local Charity, Cambridge Golf Club, Heart Kids NZ, & Resthaven Charity Golf Day.

We accept donations of goods in clean working condition, pick up of items can be arranged by calling 027-693-7953

Pick up times Tues, Thurs & Sat between 8.00am -12pm

Applications for grants are open all year round on a monthly basis so if your club, organization or sporting individual has a project that we may be able to help with let us know.

Stalls priced at $20

All stall profits go back to the community through grants.

Come along to enjoy the many market stalls selling a variety of goods. Food caravans and entertainment. For stall bookings contact Cambridge@lionsclubs.org.nz Stalls priced from $20.00

Come along to enjoy the many market stalls selling a variety of goods. Food caravans and entertainment. For stall bookings contact Cambridge@lionsclubs.org.nz Stalls

RESTYLE WAIKATO DONATIONS

All clothing donations can be dropped o at the Cambridge Lions Shed during the following times: Thursday 2nd & 9th April 8.30am-12pm, Saturday 4th & 11th April and Tuesday 7th & 14th April 8.30am-12pm.

Pick up times Tues, Thurs & Sat between 8.00am -12pm

To apply, please email: cambridgegrants@lionsclubs.org.nz for an application form.

Lions Club Christmas Cakes

Please make sure clothing is in a clean & acceptable condition. Clothing exclusions are NO underwear, socks, swimwear, shoes.

Get excited for Christmas by enjoying our deliciously fruity Lions Clubs’ Christmas Cakes. Support your local Lions Club by purchasing

All donations will go towards Hospice Waikato fundraiser supported & co-organised by Cambridge High School Leos Club.

Lions Club - Grants

Club of Cambridge Charitable Trust gives out Grants monthly to organizations. They include most charities, local schools, local sporting individuals who are participating in sporting activities plus many deserving people. We also give Grants to individuals who need

in comfort.

Mokoroa name reinstated

The land where Tokanui Psychiatric Hospital sits near Te Māwhai will now be known as Mokoroa, acknowledging its original identity.

Toitū Te Whenua Land

Information New Zealand (LINZ) say physical works on site can now begin following a karakia led by descendants of the original landowners when the original name for the land was reinstated.

The demolition and remediation of the former hospital site is expected to take around three years to complete.

Tokanui Psychiatric Hospital operated from 1912 to 1998.

Contractors will begin by clearing hazardous materials including asbestos, chemicals, oils and other waste before moving into salvage works.

LINZ plans to have doors, windows and timber recovered for reuse, as well as concrete crushed for recycling. Once salvageable materials have been removed, buildings will be mechanically demolished to ground level.

Contractors will then remove building foundations and any contaminated soil.

Pre site testing identified contamination around buildings where materials

such as paint had deteriorated over time.

In addition to building removal, they will also remove underground pipes, footpaths and sections of roading across the site.

LINZ will upgrade a closed landfill on site that was used to dispose of

hospital waste during the facility’s operation.

This work includes removing and replacing the cap and diverting groundwater away from the landfill.

Work will also take place along the Wharekōrino Stream. Several culverts will be removed to improve water flow and fish passage. Additional sections of the stream will be daylit, bringing them back to the surface to flow naturally. This work will be supported by restoration planting along the stream margins.

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Born and bred for farming

By Jesse Wood

Waipā featured prominently at the FMG Young Farmer of the Year Waikato Bay of Plenty regional final at Te Teko Racecourse.

Te Awamutu College students featured on the junior podium, while Whitehall farmer Stephen Brunskill placed second in Young Farmer of the Year.

After placing second, Year 13 students

Kendra Grayling and Morgan Shannon (Te Awamutu College) will head to the national grand final in New Plymouth in July.

The top two junior qualifiers go through to nationals. The team of Cody Muller (Te Awamutu College) and Toby Whytock (St Paul’s) placed third.

AgriKids winners were from King Country’s Ōtewā School - the Ōtewā Gumboot gang of Jack Woodward, Isaac Wilson and Laura Connoly. They will also travel to Taranaki.

Hamilton Young Farmers member Stephen Brunskill turns 31 this month and this was his final competition.

“It’s bittersweet. It’s a cool thing to be involved with but it’s good to see the next cohort coming through. I’ve had my crack at it,” Brunskill said.

“I might get involved with the organising if there’s an opportunity to help.

“After competing for a few years, you get to know what might go well. It’s about the crowd watching – there’s got to be a mix of practical and theory.”

Te Aroha self-employed sheep and beef farmer Cam Clayton took top honours and will go to the national final.

“This was my fourth young farmer’s competition. It was cool to be on the podium. Cam did well to win it,” Brunskill said.

“It was pretty close on points which I’m happy and gutted about at the same time.”

“Hugh Jackson and Emma Poole from the Waikato have both won the NZ Young Farmer of the Year, so Waikato has put up some pretty good competition and Cam will continue that.

Brunskill is the fifth generation on the 460acre Brunskill Rd farm. Dry stock – running sheep, beef - and dairy graziers.

“I’ve always been out here. I can’t imagine really being anywhere else,” Brunskill said.

“Farming is what I always wanted to do. I remember being 5 years old and not wanting

to go to school. I wanted to be at home with Dad on the farm.

“My wife Hayley and I have been given a cool opportunity to continue the family farm.”

Brunskill joined young farmers while at the University of Waikato. The competitions have helped him on farm, while the events have been great for socialising and networking.

“When you’re on the farm you think, how would I do this in the competition? What’s the most efficient way?,” Brunskill said.

“After university, I was working for BNZ for seven years. Hayley and I were running the home block as well. That was a good mix of office and country life.

“I resigned from BNZ in May last year and I’ve been on the farm fulltime since then, because we got the opportunity to lease the block next door.”

He encourages others to follow the young farmers path, no matter their involvement in rural New Zealand.

“We’ve been on lots of farm tours through berry and mushroom farms. It’s just a good opportunity to get out, learn something new, meet people outside of your usual circle. Who knows, you might find your new passion,” Brunskill said.

“We’ve got guys and girls that are rural professionals or reps; You don’t have to be farming specifically. Just getting involved and having that extra social network is valuable and awesome to have.

“I’ve met a lot of my friend group from that club and looking at all the professionals we have in rural New Zealand today, most of them have a connection to young farmers.

“You never know when you’ll come across people again.”

NEW-GENERATION

Power plan checks urged

Waipā Networks is encouraging residents to plan ahead for winter – by checking whether or not their electricity plan is still right for them.

Last week, independent regulator the Electricity Authority Te Mana Hiko launched “Billy”, an electricity plan comparison and switching tool. Billy replaces the former Powerswitch website and helps users understand their electricity use, compare plans across different retailers, and switch to the option that works best for them.

“Electricity pricing and plans are set by retailers, not electricity distribution companies like us,” says Anna Watson, General Manager Customer and Community at Waipā Networks.

Waipā Networks is an electricity distribution business which owns and maintains the electricity network that delivers power to homes and businesses across the district.

“Our role is to deliver safe and reliable electricity across the district. What we can do is help people understand how the system works and where they can go to make informed decisions about their power use,” Watson said.

Power bills can vary depending on factors such as daily fixed charges, peak and off-peak rates and the times of day electricity is used most. A plan that works well in summer may not always be the best fit in winter, particularly as household routines change.

Billy does not promote any particular power company or receive commissions. It simply shows how different plans could work

for a household, based on the information people provide about their electricity use.

Waipā residents can review their power use using tools like Billy, or speak directly with their electricity retailer if they have questions about their current plan or want to explore other options.

“Supporting the uptake of tools like Billy, which help people understand their choices, manage their power use, and make cost savings where they can, is part of our role in supporting a resilient and informed Waipā community,” says Watson.

Coffee Catch Up and Clinic

Friday 1 May 2026

Coffee Catch Up 8am - 9am | Café 9, Leamington Clinic 3pm - 4pm Please call 07 827 5572 or email upston.cambridge@parliament.govt.nz for a clinic appointment

Smooth sailing at summer games

By Jesse Wood

Cambridge’s Keziah Clark and Hamilton-based Deshan Walallavita were among those to stand out for Special Olympics Te Awamutu at the 2025 National Summer Games late last year.

The 12-strong swimming team ventured to Christchurch, competing in the pool complex at the new Parakiore Recreation and Sport Centre.

“Everybody medalled. We had 22 medals and placings, but a lot of those placings had PBs. That’s like gold to us anyway,” head swimming coach Shelley Blair said.

“I make a big point of that because a lot of them worked jolly hard. It’s pretty daunting when you’ve got 1300 athletes, and it’s a 1-4 ratio, so you’ve got coaches and assistant coaches on top of that. There were 42 clubs and 11 sports at nine venues.

“We were up at 5.30am most mornings and shattered by the end of the day.”

Alongside Keziah and Deshan were Te Awamutu athletes Peter Crawford, Sarah Griffin, Sarah-Jane Hudson, David Smith, Matthew Smith, Caitlin Thomas, Robert van der Wee, Ella Yarndley, Cambridge’s Jarrod Gilbert and longtime former Ōtorohanga resident Jennifer Clark.

“Keziah Clark just blew us away. She was training two extra days during the week, plus Saturday and Sunday that we had going on as a club,” Shelley said.

“It showed incredibly in the water. She medalled and got PBs. She’s just a trooper. Keziah lived up to everything that we thought she would and beyond.

“We’re very fortunate to have very supportive families who were able to get the swimmers to do extra swim training.”

Deshan has been coached by Shelley since 2008.

He impressed at his fifth national games, claiming two golds, two silvers and PBs.

“He has an incredibly supportive family too. They take him to the pool and he does gym work,” Shelley said.

“It never ceases to amaze me how he can get into the water and be as fast as he is. He’s a sprinter.

“Deshan is a machine and he never stops. I couldn’t believe it.”

There were teething issues at the venue, seating problems and lack of air-conditioning, but overall the team had a great trip south.

Shelley said she was grateful to have the support of her husband Bruce and Cherie Thompson.

“That was Cherie’s first year with us and that included nationals. She couldn’t believe the calibre of the swimming.”

Nationals are held every four years, though the last was held in Hamilton three years ago following a Covid delay.

The 2029 event location is yet to be confirmed, but it’s likely to be in the North Island.

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By Jesse Wood

Sports take down Old Boys Melville opts out

Southland Stags stalwart Joe Walsh was welcomed to Te Awamutu Sports with a 26-15 debut win against Hamilton Old Boys on Good Friday.

The former Blues prop has made the move to Sports after Melville pulled the pin on their premier side for the season.

Tairoa Crean, Jonan Heke-Heays, Bronson van der Heyden and Rameriz Viane crossed the chalk at Albert Park. Leo Scott converted three of the tries.

Te Awamutu’s Daniel Tickelpenny led from the front in the green machine 10 jersey.

Fellow premier club Hautapu lost 33-26 to Hamilton Marist at Cambridge Memorial Park.

Fullback Dallas RataMakene grabbed two tries for Hautapu, Rui Farrant scored one and Nathan Stephens was the other scorer. New recruit Patrick Hedley kicked three conversions.

Former Te Awamutu midfielder Dre Liebenberg scored one of Marist’s five tries.

The Te Awamutu Sports and Hautapu premier development sides were at

new Melville-Hautapu

different ends of the scale.

Old Boys B dealt to Te Awamutu 67-0, while Hautapu B beat their Marist counterparts 28-17.

Fullback Dillon Martin converted all four of the Cambridge team’s tries.

Melville-Hautapu combined women, “Mel-Tap”, also got their premiership season underway

Mel-Tap claimed a 22-15 win against Ōtorohanga at Island Reserve. The visitors scored four tries to three. This weekend Mel-Tap face Putāruru.

In division 1A rugby, Ōhaupō and Pirongia both claimed wins at home29-27 against Frankton and 34-14 versus Suburbs respectively. Ōhaupō winger Caleb

Kennedy helped himself to a double, as did Pirongia outside back Daniel Belk.

The Ōhaupō division 1B team lost 26-19 to Frankton B while Pirongia B beat 2422 under the mountain.

Dane Murphy (Ōhaupō) and Pirongia B fullback Mitch Zeuren also registered two tries each.

Tokoroa-based Southern United will host the Ōhaupō

Hey ref –is that you?

“If you miss rugby, take up refereeing.”

It’s a great line, says Cambridge ref Mike Fredrickson. It was coined by Gareth Cogan when three members of the Cambridge Rugby Referees Association gathered in the ref’s room under the grandstand at Memorial Park this month.

Cogan, who enjoyed a senior playing career at Northcote and, in England, Nottingham, called time when his body had had enough – but he still longed to be involved in the game. The former hal ack picked up the whistle in 2018, two years shy of his 40th birthday. Like many of his colleagues he laments not doing it earlier.

And at a time when the association is down on numbers, he knows there is no shortage of potential refs among the ranks of retired players.

“Rugby was good to me and allowed me to do a lot – but after retiring I had no involvement and I missed it – I couldn’t remember a time when rugby wasn’t part of my life,” he said. A season into refereeing he found he didn’t miss not playing - and today he encourages other former players who miss the involvement in the game to give it a go.

Mike Fredrickson took a di erent path. His playing career ended at colts level in Stratford when he woke up in The Base Hospital in New Plymouth after taking a bad head knock. He returned as a referee. He loves the game – and sees every match as an opportunity to make 30 friends and see two teams walk o

the park having enjoyed their game.

John Gould’s refereeing days are largely behind him now but he continues to support the Cambridge association. He started re ng in the mid-1980s – he had watched his four boys “get above my level”. He had no aspirations other than to be the person with the whistle enabling gamesparticularly at school level - to go ahead. And that’s where there is a dire need on the horizon. Membership has dwindled to almost single numbers in terms of active referees, and next month when school rugby ramps up, the association will have to have more refs on deck to cover games.

“We provide everything you need – from gear to training. And I love the camaraderie – it’s what keep me here,” John says. Are you someone who could help the game you love by picking up the whistle to control a junior game – or someone who aspires to referee at a higher level?

No matter who you are, this might be referee’s time. For more information email cambridgerefs@gmail.com or call John Gould on 027 487 1279.

Cambridge Rugby Referees Association committee: Patron Rob Waugh, president David Chin, vice president Ivan Macintosh, treasurer Mike Maclarn. Other o cers - John Gould, Gareth Cogan, Brian Ley, Herbie Broughton, Robin Hapi.

Melville has become the second Waikato premier rugby club to withdraw from the senior competition in recent years.

But as Matamata, which opted out a couple of seasons ago has shown, there is a way back.

The year’s premier competition involves Hautapu, Te Awamutu, Morrinsville, Matamata, Ōtorohanga, University, Hamilton Marist, Hamilton Old Boys and Fraser Tech.

Collins Road based Melville – winners of the Haswell Catley trophy in 1979, 1981 and 2016, has suffered a declining playing strength since the end of last year and members were told last month “we only have a few loyal members left and even those players are getting hounded daily by other clubs”.

games this weekend, while Pirongia venture to Hamilton’s Swarbrick Park to face Frankton. Both Leamington sides had the bye week and host Putāruru next.

Hautapu, Pirongia, Leamington and Te Awamutu Sports will all feature when the colts competition gets underway this Saturday.

The club subsequently confirmed following a Waikato Rugby Union chair’s meeting that Melville would not field a Premier A team, but would remain in the Premier B. It would effectively finish 10th in the A division. The door remains open for Melville to return to the premier competition in 2027 either via a promotion relegation round or by filling the 10th spot should it be vacant.

Melville and Hautapu have also combined forces to field a Mel-Tap team in the Waikato women’s premier competition. That team came from behind to beat Ōtorohanga last weekend.

Keeping the stamps alive

By Jesse Wood

Longtime Waipā resident and philately enthusiast

Kevin Burgess believes stamp collections will have a place in society for many years to come.

There are still several societies enthusiasts can join including the Waikato Philatelic Society, the Royal Philatelic Society of New Zealand and the New Zealand Philatelic Federation.

“There’s a future because what do you do as a hobby? It can’t be always connected with your phone or computer. People want something tactile that they can actually collect,” Burgess said.

“There’s been crazes over the years, Pokémon and telephone cards have been very popular.

“Stamp collecting or philately might come again for a dedicated bunch of enthusiasts.

“You could start a young person off by spending $20get a stamp album and fill it with low value stamps.”

Kihikihi Bookshop and NZ Post Centre Young Yeo said they sell stamps on a much smaller scale these days.

“When we started 16 years ago, some businesses were buying bulk quantities, but now businesses are buying everything online,” Yeo said.

“Now there’s foot traffic only. But still, people are using a stamp, especially the elderly.

“There used to be people collecting special stamps but it’s been a long time since people have asked me.”

Burgess’ love of stamps was initiated and fuelled by his beloved grandmother, Mary Burgess.

“My grandmother used to give all the grandchildren Christmas gifts. When I was 10 or 11, I got a stamp album and that piqued my interest,” Burgess said.

“I’d go to the Hamilton Central Post Office and buy little packets of stamps or individual stamps that I could afford. It was fascinating going to the counter to get a brand-new stamp that no one had seen.

“I got hooked on it but when I got into my teen years there were other priorities. But I always had a passion for it.

“Right through until I went into business in my mid-20s, I thought maybe I’d get back into it.”

Burgess has combined his love of sport, history and WWI with philately to create his collection.

His love of the stamps has led him to write a social history of the post offices in the Cambridge area.

“Post offices were the centre point of most communities. Postmasters were considered the top strata along with the mayor and councillors,” Burgess said.

“The first post office in Cambridge was in 1864; the militia camped there at one of the redoubts. As Cambridge grew, they had to get the post closer because people would hardly get to town. They had little post offices, probably 17 or 18 around Cambridge – Pukerimu, Bruntwood, Karāpiro. Which is quite fascinating.

“It’s not just stamp collecting, it’s how small towns like Cambridge and Te Awamutu evolved. That’s what I’m fascinated in.”

Even in the business world as a pharmacist, Burgess got his staff to cut out stamps and postal markings off envelopes for him.

“One of the stamps I was fascinated with was the smiling boys from 1931, during the Depression, because my grandmother had talked about it,” Burgess said.

“There was a blue boy

and a red boy. During the Depression, few letters were written or stamps used as they couldn’t afford to buy stamps - there was only a small supply.

“She got me interested in stamps to help others. In New Zealand, there were about six health camps for children who were disadvantaged for health reasons including malnutrition and lack of physical development.

“They’d have a stamp for sale from the Post Office for, say, three pennies. Two pennies would be for postage and one penny would be for the health camps.

“They raised hundreds of thousands of pounds to keep those going.

“In my first business in the early ‘80s, I said I’m going to support buying health stamps, to boost my collection, but help people in need.

“I would buy whole sheets and put them away safely.”

For many years, Burgess broadened his collection before narrowing it down to certain types.

“I decided to just do really well with new issues. From the early 1980s, right up to 2015, I got first day covers, some plate blocks, about six types of stamps and some miniature sheets. That brought my collection up,” Burgess said.

“Then a friend of mine, who had written a book about the Gisborne postal area, said, ‘Kevin that’s great. That’s generalising but what’s your passion?’

“I said, I’m studying military history - piqued by the interest, my wife’s, [Jane’s] grandfather, who sent 50-60 letters to his wife from 1915 to 1919.

“I was fascinated by the stamps and troop ship stamps. That got me thinking, if I do want to specialise, it needs to be something that has meaning

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to me - military history, postal history, New Zealand Olympic stamps and rugby.”

He’s enjoyed spending the past 15 years searching the globe for the missing pieces of his collection.

His collection is made up of more than 30 albums of first day covers, 40 albums of stamps and boxes of others yet to find homes.

“I’ve had so much fun looking to add to my collection, that maybe one

day I’ll complete - maybe I’ll never complete it,” Burgess said.

“For me, there aren’t too many thrills that beat finding a unique cover or a unique stamp or something to complete your collection. Postal markings, as well, are quite valuable.

“I’m sure there are enough enthusiasts to carry on, because stamps still are being made.

“The postal [service]collecting stamps, history, the social history has been pretty big in my life. That’s why I’m a dedicated, and a bit narrow minded, stamp collector. It’s our history.”

“At my stage of life. A lot of people say to me, ‘I’ve got a stamp collection somewhere that I started when I was 12. Do you want it? My children don’t want it.’ I’ve taken them on board or given advice if they want to sell it.

“Trash ‘n’ Treasure”

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(6)

(8)

(6)

(6)

(4)

Across: 1. August, 4. Aspire, 9. Layer, 10. Evasive, 11. Recital, 13. Iris, 14. Intolerable, 17. Gust, 18. Annoyed, 21. Episode, 22. Taste, 24. Danger, 25. Cherub.

Down: 1. Allure, 2. Guy, 3. Strut, 5. Stamina, 6. Initially, 7. Even, 8. Wellbehaved, 12. Confusion, 15. Outcome, 16. Adverb, 19. Notch, 20. Feud, 23. Sir.

WEDDING

Memories of Lion tamer

By Jesse Wood

Former Ngāhinapōuri and Tamahere resident Ross McMillan remembers his late older brother Don fondly.

Not just the man who scored an 80 metre try against the touring 1977 British Lions, but a keen guitarist with a strong work ethic.

From Paeroa to London, Saudi Arabia and Africa, Donald George McMillan saw the world before his death on January 3, 2024, in Uganda, Africa aged 71.

Ross, father of St Peter’s alumna and New Zealand winter Olympian Chloe, ventured to Uganda to obtain Don’s ashes and death certificate.

“The whole thing was a bit messy, but we succeeded. Basil Morrison from Paeroa came with me. He’s the honorary consulate to Uganda for New Zealand - an absolute bizarre coincidence,” now Central Otago-based Ross said.

“I hadn’t known Basil when I lived in Paeroa, but he knew the old man and Don really well.”

Basil – Hauraki District Council’s inaugural mayor and a former president of Local Government New Zealand - helped Ross “cut through the red tape” in Uganda.

“I was really lucky I had him with me. He succeeded in getting Don’s death certificate within a couple of days and the ashes were already there for me to take home,” Ross said.

“Basil was good friends with a guy who picked us up from the airport and took us around. He had all the right contacts. Wherever we went, everyone did as he asked.”

Born in 1952, Don was the eldest of Norm and Vera McMillan’s three children.

Norm was at one stage Paeroa Borough Council deputy-mayor (1974-1988), a Thames Valley rugby player from 1947-1950 and coached the Thames Valley rugby side from 1960-1964 and 1968-1970.

Norm’s father Gordon was a referee with

one first-class game under his belt as well as Thames Valley union’s vice president and president in the 1930s.

Starting at Paeroa Central School, Don went on to board at Wesley College before studying accounting at the University of Otago.

Don’s goal was to represent Otago and he gave it a fair crack with the Southern Rugby Football Club alongside All Blacks Gary Seear and Laurie Mains.

But the blue and gold jersey opportunity never came.

“Don was passionate about rugby. He ended up moving back to Paeroa and worked with the old man at his accountancy company,” Ross said.

“He played for the local Paeroa West Club and consequently got into Thames Valley.”

Alongside fellow Thames Valley representative Brian Duggan, Don was in the 1977 Thames Valley-Counties combined side that lost 35-10 to the Lions.

Ross witnessed his brother scoring the longe range try with only Mike Gibson giving chase.

“It was pretty amazing. I went to the game in Pukekohe and because it was the Lions, it was just huge. It was more than likely a sellout,” Ross said. “There was no miracle that day but Don was the hero of Thames Valley.

“In the ’80s, there used to be a programme that you could ask for things that had been on TV to be shown again.

“My mother wrote a letter to them and asked if they could show Don’s try again. They organised a video of it for her and we’ve still got it.”

Don represented the Valley 28 times between 1976-1978, scoring 11 tries.

In 1978, he also played for the Colin Meads Invitational XV and in 1979 represented Gisborne-based Poverty Bay.

He scored for every representative team he played for in New Zealand.

Don then went to London to work in accountancy. He played for the London New

Zealand Rugby Club and was captain for a long time.

“A lot of Kiwis used to go to work in Saudi Arabia, you could earn a lot of money. Don did that for a couple of years,” Ross said.

“In doing that, he met his future wife. She was an airline hostess for British Airways. They were married and had a kid together. Then Don decided that he wanted to go back to Saudi to make more money and get ahead in life.

“Sadly, women were considered second-rate citizens in Saudi Arabia. Back then they had to stay in a commune. Women and children were not allowed out.

“Of course, it drove Carol and their son David nuts spending 24 hours a day in the commune. She had a guts full and went back to England. The marriage dissolved.”

Ross said he can’t remember the exact details, but suddenly Don was in Africa.

“That was the new place to go for expats - Aussies, Kiwis, South Africans and a lot of Europeans,” he said.

“He flitted between Uganda and Tanzania. He’d worked for TNT and DHL, among other

multi-national companies.

“I think he may have had a stint in Kenya; he was hard to keep track of at times. It was the lifestyle.

“Don’s life was a pretty hard case. He did do a lot. He was here, he was there, he was everywhere.

“He certainly lived a good life. He didn’t just sit around drinking beer all day.”

CAMBRIDGE OPEN HOMES

can change.

Tamahere 474 Bruntwood Road

The

Ngahinapouri 179 McGregor Road

This spacious residence features 4 well-appointed bedrooms, providing ample space for family and guests. With 2 bathrooms and 2 separate toilets, convenience is at your fingertips. The heart of the home boasts an open-plan dining area, seamlessly connecting to a separate lounge, perfect for entertaining or relaxing with loved ones.

Tamahere 8 September Grove

Positioned in sought-a er Tamahere, this 5,000m2 lifestyle property combines space, comfort, and beautifully established surroundings. Follow the stunning ROW to the electric gates, where a real sense of privacy and arrival begins. Beyond the entrance, the home reveals itself among mature gardens and manicured grounds, creating an inviting and serene setting. 4

Tauwhare 43 Scotsman Valley Road

The layout includes four bedrooms and two tiled bathrooms, including a private ensuite. A classic verandah invites you to relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings of the private backyard and delivers the ultimate retreat with an inground saltwater swimming pool - perfect for summer entertaining. Beyond the home, the property continues to impress with a large separate, fully insulated studio.

Brand new and ready

23a Alpers Ridge delivers modern comfort within a well-established setting. With a solid exterior that reflects its place in the neighbourhood, it’s what’s inside that truly sets this home apart. Step through the door and you’re welcomed into a completely refreshed interior, where everything has been thoughtfully updated, from the kitchen and appliances through to the flooring and finishes. Designed for easy, contemporary living, the home offers the feel of something new, without losing the strength and character of its original build. The kitchen is a real standout in this home. Featuring brand new Bosch appliances, sleek engineered stone benchtops, and striking floor-to-ceiling cabinetry, it combines style with everyday functionality. Contact Jessie Hodges to view or for more information. bayleys.co.nz/2351073

Affordable living starts here

Welcome to 11b Whitespire Way, part of the thoughtfully planned Peake Mews community. Developed by the Brian Perry Charitable Trust, this neighbourhood has been created to offer access to warm, modern homes in a setting that emphasises connection, security and affordability. This stylish two-bedroom townhouse is move-in ready. The lower level centres around easy living, featuring an open-plan kitchen, dining and lounge area that captures plenty of natural light. Sliding doors open to a private courtyard, giving you a sunny spot to relax without the upkeep of a large section. Bosch appliances, quality fixtures and a heat pump ensure comfort and convenience throughout. Upstairs, both bedrooms are generously sized with great storage, accompanied by a well-appointed bathroom. Get in contact with Jessie Hodges for more information. bayleys.co.nz/2351051

594 sqm 4

For Sale by Deadline Private Treaty (unless sold prior)

2pm, Tue 28 Apr 2026 Lakewood, Unit 1, Block C, 36 Lake Street, Cambridge View by appointment

Jessie Hodges 027 850 2040 jessie.hodges@bayleys.co.nz

2 1 1

Price by Negotiation View by appointment

Jessie Hodges 027 850 2040

jessie.hodges@bayleys.co.nz

Lock and Leave or Stay and Play

$1,330,000

4 Taylor Street, Cambridge

- Living & dining spaces flow seamlessly to a private covered portico.

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Four generous bedrooms, family bathroom with separate toilet; versatile space ideal as study, with wetback wood burner.

Freshly painted walls, brand new

Secure, Private - Hall St Elegance

71B Hall Street, Cambridge

- Behind electric gates on a generous 1167m² (more or less) section.

- Kitchen looks out over the backyard, that naturally connects with the dining & living areas, through sliding doors to the large deck. Open Home Sunday 2.00 - 2.30pm

Desirable Homestead Lane Living

1 Homestead Lane, Cambridge

- Well-designed kitchen complete with a scullery, positioned alongside the dining area and connecting through to a separate living space.

- Master suite-walk-in wardrobe, ensuite & sliding door access outside.

- Seamless indoor-outdoor flow - perfect setting for alfresco dining.

Open Home Sunday 12.15 - 12.45pm

- Quietly placed at the end of a peaceful and private right-of-way.

- A heat pump keeps things cosy year-round, while large sliding doors invite the sunshine in and lead you to a private, north-facing garden.

- Step inside to a welcoming separate lounge, offering a cosy retreat.

- Light-filled kitchen is an entertainer’s dream - complete with a spacious scullery and super handy second sink.

- Modern comforts- lawn irrigation, solar panels and ducted aircon.

and surrounding areas

EXPERTS

Tapping into funding

Waikato Waters, owned by Waipa, Ōtorohanga, Waitomo, Hauraki, Matamata Piako and South Waikato district councils has become the first of a potential 18 water councilcontrolled organisations to be granted access to the New Zealand Local Government Funding Agency.

Joining the funding agency gives Waikato Waters access to long-term borrowing. Its water services delivery plan anticipates the organisation will borrow more than $300 million by 2034.

The money will support an investment programme valued at around $800 million to renew, upgrade and expand water and wastewater infrastructure across the region.

Waikato Waters will begin operating under the Government’s Local Water Done Well policy on July 1.

Interim chief executive Neil Brennan said Waikato Waters was building something that would stand the test of time and support growth across the region.

“Access to LGFA funding is a significant step for us,” says Brennan. “It means we can invest in critical infrastructure in a financially responsible way, helping to keep costs down over the long term while still delivering the upgrades our

Last serve

communities need.”

Waikato Waters has also signed transfer agreements with Waipā, Waitomo and South Waikato district councils – the first councils to transfer their water and wastewater services to the new entity.

Transfer agreements will also be signed with Hauraki, Ōtorohanga and Matamata Piako councils.

From 1 July Waikato Waters will begin delivering water and wastewater services across the first three council areas. Councils will continue to collect water and wastewater charges on behalf of Waikato Waters for at least the next 12 months.

Customers will continue to pay their council and contact council customer service teams with any billing or service queries, while Waikato Waters crews deliver services in the field.

Waikato Waters’ head office will initially be based in Hamilton.

It will have around 50,000 customers and assets valued at approximately $1.4 billion, making it one of the largest water companies in the country.

Bones to pick

By Dan Tasker

Mōkau has put on another masterclass for bone carvers at the latest Firstgas Mōkau Bone carving Symposium over Easter weekend.

Around 60 novice to expert carvers from across the country filled the Mōkau Hall to learn, create and connect at the free symposium that has been an annual event since 2017.

Headlining the weekend were masterclasses in seven specialist areas: setting paua eyes into carvings, design process, 3D carvings, hand tool maintenance, carving as a spiritual language, lashing and electrical tools of the trade.

Symposium organiser Mike Brown said the masterclasses gave carvers at all levels the chance to improve and grow their skills and knowledge of the art.

“We’re seeing carvers who’ve been coming for a few years picking up these tips, really developing in

the quality of their carvings. This was one of the goals of this symposium was to bring people from beginner carvers and teach them the skills to make high quality work,” Brown said.

One of the great moments of the event was at the carver’s dinner on Sunday night, where eight novice carvers presented their carvings to the group.

“That’s where we celebrate the weekend, the unity of the people, the love of bone carving, just a really joyful time,” Mr Brown said.

“Each of (the beginner carvers) all made one or two beautiful carvings they were most proud of, and they presented those carvings to the symposium at the end to great applause.”

While a range of bone types are used in bone carving circles, most carvers brought cow bone and deer antlers to carve at the symposium due to how accessible they are.

While Māori cultural has strong ties to bone carving,

r Brown said part of the richness for carvers at the symposium was the variety of cultures and backgrounds.

“There’s sometimes an assumption that bone carving is a traditional Māori design, and it is for some people, but other people have a different background and they’ll be carving

something that might relate to their own culture,” he said.

“It could be northern European or Asian and some people are doing abstract contemporary designs. That’s all encouraged here, it’s the diversity in the room that makes it’s so interesting.”

BRINGING GOD’S HIDDEN TREASURE INTO THE LIGHT

Raewyn Calvert Celebrant

2 Albert Street, Cambridge 07 827 7649

www.cambridgefunerals.co.nz

AGISTMENT

DAIRY grazing available for R1 and R2 heifers. Call Aaron on 027 388 3881

am Sunday with Children

58 Queen Street Ph 07 827 6490

Haere mai - we welcome you to come along to our church service and Cambridge Kids programme 9.30am Sunday cambapchurch

EXCELLENT GRAZING AVAILABLE for 50-60 diary heifers. Pirongia area, Ph 027 6465234.

HEIFER GRAZING available Te Awamutu area. Phone 027 3185618

HEIFER/COW. Grazing Available. Te Kuiti area. Please phone or txt Alan 021 088 02383

Ballot Notice – Out of Zone Enrolments

Tamahere Model Country School – Terms 3 & 4, 2026

The Tamahere Model Country School Board has determined that a total of up to 12 new entrant places are likely to be available for Year 0-1 students for Terms 3 & 4 2026. This includes siblings of current students and those in priority 1-6 of our enrolment scheme. Final numbers depend on applications from within the home zone.

Applications close at noon on Thursday 30th April 2026 If required, a ballot will be held on Friday 1st May 2026, with results advised within three school days.

Families within the home zone intending to enrol are encouraged to contact the school as soon as possible.

To attend the Principal’s Tour on Wednesday 22nd April 2026 at 8:45am, or to request Out of Zone enrolment forms, please contact: reception@tamahere.school.nz | 07 856 9238 or go to our website, click on Our School and Our Zone to locate the downloadable Ballot Form.

ENROLMENT SCHEME

Because of our growing in-zone roll, Cambridge High School has an enrolment scheme. A limited number of out-of-zone places are available. If the number of applicants exceeds the places available, a ballot will be held.

Closing date for Out-of-Zone

Applications - Thursday 25 June

Ballot, if required - Friday 26 June Parents notified - Tuesday 30 June

Any enquiries: Tel: 07 827 5415

Email: enrolments@camhigh.school.nz www.camhigh.school.nz

LAWRENCE, Oliver (Ollie)

– Charles Edward Passed away suddenly on Tuesday, 31st March 2026. Aged 89 years. Adored husband to his wife of 62 years Hazel. Much loved father and father-in-law to Peter and Mark & Nicole. Cherished Poppa Riley, Axel, Chloe and Amelia. Following Oliver's wishes a private cremation has been held. Messages to the "Lawrence" family can be sent c/- 3 Hallys Lane, Cambridge 3434 or in Ollie's online tribute book at www. grinters.co.nz

REA, Barbara Joan (née Bassett) – Passed away peacefully at Metlifecare St Andrew’s on Thursday, 2nd April 2026, aged 91 years. Dearly loved wife of the late Doug. Much loved mother and mother-in-law of Andrew and Mandy, Ian and Nelly, and Catherine. Cherished grandmother of eight grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. Barbara was a treasured member of the Metlife St Andrew’s community, having made her home in the village since 2014, before moving into the care centre three years ago. A heartfelt thank you to the staff of Metlifecare St Andrew’s for the wonderful care and kindness shown to Barbara during her time in the village and in the care centre. In accordance with Barbara’s wishes, a private farewell has been held. Messages to the Rea family may be sent c/- 3 Hallys Lane, Cambridge 3434, or left in Barbara’s online tribute book at www. grinters.co.nz.

PUBLIC NOTICES

Got reject or surplus milk? Call us today on 027 871 5075

We collect within 1.5 hours drive from Te Awamutu.

DEVLYN, Dorothy Eileen

– Passed away peacefully at Radius Glaisdale on Wednesday, 1st April 2026, aged 90 years. Much loved mother and mother in-law of Russell, Rex & Julie, Clinton & Fay, Lance and Rhonda. Cherished Nana and GreatNana to all her grandchildren. A service to celebrate Dorothy’s life will be held at Cambridge Baptist Church, Queen Street, Cambridge, on Thursday, 9th April 2026 at 12.00 noon followed by burial at Hautapu Public Cemetery. Messages to the Devlyn family may be sent c/- 3 Hallys Lane, Cambridge 3434, or left in Dorothy’s online tribute book at www. grinters.co.nz.

HENDERSON, Ian Murray – Passed away peacefully at Waikato Hospital after a short illness on Thursday, 2nd April 2026, aged 76 years. Dearly loved father and father-in-law of Suzanne; Murray and Kim; Vicki and Philip; and the late Brett and Jacob. Much loved Grandad of Leigh, Maddison, Caleb, Harper and Aleeah, and great-grandad of two. Special thanks to the staff of Cambridge Oakdale for their wonderful care over the past few years, and to the staff of Ward A2, Waikato Hospital, for their compassion in his final days. Your care went above and beyond. A farewell for Ian has taken place. Messages to the Henderson family may be sent c/- 3 Hallys Lane, Cambridge 3434, or left in Ian’s online tribute book at www.grinters.co.nz.

KIRKBRIDE, Maureen Ellen nee Cowan – Passed away peacefully at Resthaven on Vogel on Monday 6 April 2026, aged 92 years. Loving wife of the late Selwyn. Loved mother and motherin-law of Michael and the late Jane, Maree and Harry Mourits, Bruce and Sharmion. Adored Grandma of Stacey, Adam, Madeline, Michelle, Hayden, Anthony, Claire, Brooke, Mitchell, Taryn, Louise; and their partners. Cherished greatgrandma of her eight greatgrandchildren. Requiem Mass will be celebrated at St Peter’s Catholic Church, 21 Anzac Street Cambridge tomorrow, Friday 10 April at 12:00 midday.