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CAMBRIDGE NEWS | 1

THURSDAY DECEMBER 18, 2025

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DECEMBER 18, 2025

2025 Person of the Year

The case for Jocelyn Cambridge organisations have benefitted from Jocelyn Cooney’s support for more than four decades. Today she is recognised as Cambridge News’ person of the year. By Viv Posselt

Jocelyn Cooney could be forgiven for signalling a touch of ‘ho hum’ on hearing she is Cambridge News’ Person of the Year for 2025, but instead of shrugging us off as just another award, she was tickled pink. Those who know her would expect nothing less. In whatever citation written for her, it is Jocelyn’s humility and her readiness to go above and beyond for her community, that make her a stand-out in Cambridge. “I’m really more of a background type of person,” she smiled, “it’s not for me being front and central to everything.” Aside from her distinguished career in the legal industry, where she is known for her professionalism and modesty, Jocelyn is widely acknowledged for her community service. That was at the heart of her Queen’s Service Medal awarded in 2018 and contributed to her winning in 2011 the Cambridge Community Board’s Community Service Award. Also in 2018, she was presented with a Recognition of Contribution to Education The Cambridge News Person of the Year, Jocelyn Cooney QSM. Photo: Ruth Gilmour award

by the New Zealand School Trustees Association, acknowledging her contribution to education and the community for serving on the Nelson-based Salisbury School board of trustees. Years before that, in 2007, she was presented with a plaque from the then Governor General Anand Satyanand in recognition of her service as a Coroner. Jocelyn has also held numerous trustee roles. She was a foundation member of the Cambridge Health and Community Charitable Trust, which oversees what is now Taylor Made Community Space. She still enjoys her 14-plus years’ involvement with the Cambridge Autumn Festival Trust, has assisted the Waipā Community Trust and the Linda Jones Riding for the Disabled Foundation (which fundraises so that the Riding for the Disabled crew don’t have to), has played a pivotal role on school boards, is involved with the Creative Fibre, the Cambridge Society for Arts, and Cambridge Grey Power, which gave her life membership in 2018. She was also a longstanding member and patron of the now-dissolved Cambridge Lyceum. She also serves as honorary solicitor for several of those groups, as well as the Parents Centre, and Cambridge Rotary. More recently, she took over the chairmanship of the Cambridge Safer Community Charitable Trust, something she has been involved with for years. She is also involved with Rotary’s Urban Miners and the Souter Trust. Looking forward, she is keen to help advance the Cambridge Public Art Trust, founded by Carey Church earlier this year

to support the installation of artwork in Cambridge public areas. Factor in a career in which she made herself available to clients whenever they needed her, building her reputation for empathy and excellence, she has certainly mastered good time management. Community has coursed through Jocelyn’s veins for decades. After completing her schooling at Cambridge High School, she went to Auckland University to do law. Not long after being admitted at the High Court in Auckland in early 1975, she founded the Mt Roskill Citizens Advice Bureau, giving them four years of pro-bono work before heading south with husband David Cooney, with whom she won a Waipā District Council Heritage Award in 2013. The couple ended up here in 1982 after spending time in Auckland and Rotorua. Jocelyn did a locum with the late David Jecks and soon took on his role as Coroner for 11 years. “That was a very interesting side of the job, but could also be quite confronting,” she said. After a few years on her own as a sole practitioner, she joined another law firm, then started her own practice, Cooney Law, in 2005. It’s where she has remained until stepping back from full-time work this year. Her ability to get close to people, earn their trust and deal with each case compassionately has earned her an unmatched reputation here. She will keep doing her community work, but right now, it’s time to enjoy the grandchildren a little more and get her lovely garden ready for an April family wedding.

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THURSDAY DECEMBER 18, 2025

It’s Archie on parade When the Cambridge and Districts Pipe Band was supported by members of the Te Awamutu and Districts and Te Kūiti pipers at the Cambridge Christmas parade, it was a first for young Archie Anselmi. The 12 year old was in the second ranks having learnt and memorised all the parade tunes over the past months. Archie’s mum Michelle is from Scotland and the family dad Kent, his older sister Caitlin and Archie spent eight months in Britain mostly in Scotland where Archie attended school. While there Archie was introduced to learning the practice chanter on the pipes, but he had only just started learning what the notes were before the family returned home. He wanted to continue learning so in 2024 the family contacted the retired ex-Pipe Major of the Cambridge and Districts Pipe Band, Bryan Mitchell about private lessons. “The result, unknown to his school mates, is that Archie has been busy learning how to play since March 2024 and has progressed by dedicated effort to the stage he is now a capable piper,” Mitchell told The News. “His final preparation for the parade was the weekly marching practices within the ranks of the pipe band on the athletics grounds in Vogel Street, done during the month of November.” Archie’s secret is now out of the bag. “His friends will now know that apart from hunting, fishing and farming, Archie has a very keen interest in his Scottish heritage and playing the bagpipes. He is learning to master one of the more difficult musical instruments and the Christmas Parade was a real milestone in his progress. He has impressed family, tutor and pipe band members with his effort and progress.”

Archie Anselmi began learning the practice chanter while in Scotland.

Archie was not only first time participant in the band – another was Peet van Dijk, a tattooist in Empire Street. “People would be amazed that a Dutchman would want to learn to play the bagpipes,” Mitchell said. Our world is full of surprises and the band is very happy to have developing pipers and drummers.” The Cambridge and Te Awamutu pipe bands team up regularly and tutoring is available for anyone within the region associated with both towns. “Both bands are very interested in having more youngsters join Archie within the ranks either playing the bagpipes or drums,” Mitchell said. “Also, adult learners or people wanting to rekindle their expertise, or just to be supporters, are most welcome to make contact.”

Letters… House history

My Parents, Barry and Glenis Keoghan were part of the trio who started Achievement House. I have always had an outside interest in the success of the business. When Stan retired and Neil Fynn was his successor as manager, my thoughts were we are so lucky to find such a great replacement. Neil bought a wealth of knowledge from the industry. Neil invited me to join the board. In my time on the board, Neil made vast improvements to the building and working conditions. Neil also did fundraising and replaced the two old, worn out vehicles with brand new vehicles. When Margaret retired from the office after 30-plus years of great service, Shelby was employed to take the reins. Shelby brought a passion into the house for the job and the people that was fantastic. When Covid came along, all businesses suffered. I had to resign from the committee to put my efforts into my own company. In the time I have known Neil and Shelby, I have had nothing but respect for them both in the way they operate and the passion they have for Achievement house and the workers. I’m unsure what direction Achievement House is heading in now from the latest new reports (The News, December 11) , but the original focus was to give employment to people in need and a sense of being part of the community. Keith Keoghan Leamington

Looks like Christmas…

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Readers’ contributions of articles and letters are welcome. Publication of contributions are entirely at the discretion of editorial staff and may be edited. Contributions will only be considered for publication when accompanied by the author’s full name, residential address, and telephone number. Opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the publishers. The Cambridge News is published by Good Local Media Ltd and is the most widely distributed newspaper in Cambridge and rural surrounds.

One Cambridge family enjoyed a joint Christmas/birthday celebration last week in a lounge-room filled with festive paraphernalia collected by family matriarch, Mary Jo Doherty. The Irish native, who followed her Kiwi husband Graeme Friedrich back to this country years ago, admits to being a bit of a Christmas nut, and has collected material for her festive décor for about a decade. Last week, friends and family gathered for a bit of pre-Christmas knees-up for Graeme’s birthday. Pictured are, from left, Graeme Friedrich with Grey Bagshaw on his knee, Jade Stamp with baby Mars Bagshaw, Braxton Stamp, Archer Bagshaw, Alia Fleet, Lennon Bagshaw, (with Santa hat), Mary Jo Doherty, and Bob Peters (standing). Photo: Viv Posselt

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CAMBRIDGE NEWS | 3

THURSDAY DECEMBER 18, 2025

Briefs… Prices rise

Waipā median house prices rose to $850,000 last month from 85 sales. That is up on the $817,500 in October when there were 83 sales, Real Estate Institute figures released this week show.

Scrub fire

Fire trucks and water tankers from Cambridge, Tīrau and Matamata were used last week to bring a shelterbelt fire under control on a property behind State Highway One between Karāpiro service station and Fergusson Gully Road.

Family forum

Achievement House’s board will hold a family forum in February to provide an opportunity to air questions and concerns about programme changes. Interim board chair Jeff Small says the employment programme run at Achievement House will continue with innovation and improvements. Meanwhile a march against the changes, was scheduled to take place in Cambridge today (Thursday) and include family, friends, workers and members of the public.

Finance chief

Waikato District Council’s new chief financial officer is Paul Conder, a chartered accountant with financial management experience across local and central government organisations, and education, health and energy sectors. He has been acting chief financial officer at the Waikato District Council for the last three months.

Tuia call

Applications have opened for the annual Tuia Leadership programme which offers Māori youth an opportunity to work with Waipā’s mayor, Mike Pettit, receive mentoring and share views on issues which impact on youth.

Councils to the rescue? By Chris Gardner

Rescue boats and jet skis operated by Waikato councils could serve the region’s waterways. Fire and Emergency New Zealand (Fenz) chief executive Kerry Gregory suggested Waikato councils apply for a maritime transport operator certificate after his organisation banned firefighters from operating rescue boats and jet skis in the Waikato region. The ban was implemented in May after Maritime New Zealand wrote to Fenz pointing out it was operating outside of the law. Fenz did not have a national maritime transport operator certificate and maritime safety management system, although individual fire stations believed they were compliant. Waipā mayor Mike Pettit, who joined Hamilton mayor Tim Macindoe and Waikato mayor Aksel Bech in writing

to Fenz objecting to the ban, was concerned the region’s waterways were being left unsupported during the busy summer period. He said he backed senior Cambridge Fire Station officer Richie Gerrand who has been working for some time on purchasing a couple of rescue jet skis for Cambridge. “We have no equipment to use in a river rescue,” Gerrand said. “If I fell in that river I would need a rescue now, not recovery in 45 minutes.” It takes 45 minutes for police to send a boat from Hamilton to Cambridge. “We are all about saving lives. I have got backing in Cambridge to do it.” Gerrand also has the backing of Waipā deputy mayor Jo Davies-Colley. Bech is frustrated that his district has rescue vessels that firefighters are unable to use, and wants Fenz to reinstate the service while councils discuss the

Cambridge Fire Station officer Richie Gerrand has been working on purchasing a couple of rescue jet skis for Cambridge for a while. Photo: Chris Gardner

proposal that they take on responsibility. He knew of one rescue that took much longer than needed as a helicopter was called because firefighters

were not allowed to launch their boat. Bech said a council operated rescue service was out of the scope of local government, but he would

keep looking for a solution. Maritime NZ has provided advice to brigades about entering their watercraft into a safety management system.

Sports fame coming our way Senior writer Mary Anne Gill was in Dunedin and took the chance to visit the Sports Hall of Fame for a preview of what Cambridge can expect next year. It was one of the busiest weekends in Dunedin – Otago University graduations at the Town Hall and thousands of visitors from around New Zealand in town. Knowing the Sports Hall of Fame is moving from Dunedin Railway Station to the Velodrome in Cambridge, we popped in for a look – but the doors were shut. We should have checked the attraction’s hours - 10am to 3pm but graduation ceremonies and the social activities around them kept us occupied. We arrived 30 minutes too late. A lost opportunity for us, but one you suspect the people behind its move to the Waikato are unlikely to miss. After 26 years in Dunedin, the hall

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is embarking on a bold new chapter. It will move to the Waikato next year and transform from a traditional museum into a modern, interactive arena. The vision is clear: this won’t just be a place to look at trophies behind glass. The new Hall of Fame will be a living, breathing celebration of sport a space where legends are honoured, today’s champions are celebrated, and tomorrow’s athletes inspired. Visitors will encounter immersive storytelling, cutting-edge technology, and hands-on experiences. Construction begins soon and is expected to be complete by the end of 2026. The Velodrome’s existing footprint will be reimagined to house the hall, while curators and designers work closely with community

Behind closed doors lies New Zealand’s sporting history.

Photo: Mary Anne Gill

partners to preserve the integrity of memorabilia. Transition manager Tony Smith, who brings 25 years of leadership in the cycling industry, is steering the project. “This is about honouring the legacy while creating something fresh and

Continued on page 8

exciting,” he said. “We want every visitor - whether they’re a lifelong sports fan or a curious child - to walk away inspired.” The new Hall of Fame will be woven into the Velodrome’s concourse and wall space with large-

4 | CAMBRIDGE NEWS

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CAMBRIDGE NEWS | 5

THURSDAY DECEMBER 18, 2025

Racing hub site revealed By Mary Anne Gill

Waikato Thoroughbred Racing has secured a conditional deal to buy 150 hectares south of Hamilton, marking the first major step toward relocating and modernising the region’s thoroughbred racing operations. Chief executive Andrew Castles told The News the deal follows a year-long search for prime Waikato land—describing it as a once-in-acentury opportunity to reshape the industry. The “super club”, formed in 2023 through the merger of Waikato Racing, Cambridge Jockey and Waipā Racing clubs, has chosen a dairy farm site bordering the Waikato Expressway to the north and the Te Awa River Ride to the south, with Pencarrow and Duncan roads on either side. “If you asked me where the optimum site would be for a 100 year build to secure the future of thoroughbred racing in the Waikato, I doubt you could find a better site,” said Castles. The club’s due diligence included aerial surveys, environmental assessments and infrastructure analysis - Castles even flew over the property by helicopter. The current landowners will continue dairy operations until contractual dates are met, beginning with the 2027 dairy season. Environmental studies are underway and, led by BCD Group,

Racing club chair Bruce Harvey, left, and chief executive Andrew Castles have planned the purchase for months. Photo: Mary Anne Gill

will cover water supply, wildlife, roading and electricity demand. One of the key drivers behind the move is growing pressure on the Cambridge training centre, where housing intensification and traffic congestion are making daily training more difficult. To fund the new site, the club would sell its existing land in Hamilton, Te Awamutu and Cambridge. The proposed development would replace Te Rapa’s ageing infrastructure. Plans include flexible event spaces, equine rehabilitation and veterinary facilities, and capacity for up to 1500 horses. The scale of the site also allows for

future projects such as a national sales centre. “Gone are the days of the grandiose grandstand. It will be a modern, multipurpose facility that can double as an event centre,” said Castles. The location near Hamilton Airport is seen as a strategic advantage. It is expected the airport will expand international services over the next decade. “I believe it will be a proper international airport,” Castles said. It would make it ideal for international buyers and horse movement between countries. Board chair Bruce Harvey said

the economic benefits outweigh the loss of dairy land, citing job creation, construction activity and regional growth. The shift from bovine to equine agriculture would bring greater employment and economic activity, he said. “It would outweigh 150 hectares of dairy land.” Engagement is now underway with neighbours, iwi and Waikato District Council, where the land is situated. Politicians, including Racing Minister Winston Peters, have all been in the loop. An open day is planned for late next month.

Waikato mayor Aksel Bech said he appreciated the way Waikato Thoroughbred was engaging with locals about a project that would add vibrancy and economic activity to the region. “The scale of the proposal makes it a nationally significant project with massive opportunities for a modern racing and entertainment offering close to the Expressway, Southern Links and our international airport,” he said. “Tamahere along with our southern neighbours around Cambridge are the heart of the New Zealand thoroughbred community and a natural home for this new facility.” The project remains firmly thoroughbred-focused. Castles emphasised the mandate given by members to pursue long-term industry sustainability. Cambridge is already the largest training centre in Australasia, while Matamata ranks among the top five and together they support thousands of horses, Te Awamutu’s future still uncertain amid stalled plans for a waste-to-energy plant. Both Castles and Harvey credited the 2023 merger for enabling the project. “We wouldn’t be having this discussion if you had three separate clubs,” said Castles. “We have to acknowledge the foresight that past club members had,” said Harvey.

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THURSDAY DECEMBER 18, 2025

Christmas Messages Jeff Parker Pastor, Elim Church Christmas is a time of wonder. You see it on the faces of children as they get excited about the day coming. It was there at the Cambridge Christmas parade last weekend amongst the joy and laughter. As we get older and life becomes filled with responsibilities and bills to pay the wonder can be lost and we can just hope for a good break, a bit of fun and enough money to make it all happen. But truth be told, the wonder of Christmas is not about decorations, presents and holidays, as good as those things are. It goes a lot deeper, to the original story of Christmas…God loved the world so much that He sent Jesus to be born into the most humble of circumstances, to bring hope to mankind. One of His names was Immanuel, which means ‘God with us’. His birth, life, death and resurrection are pivotal events in human history, but also, are relevant today to you and I. Why? It’s in the name ‘God with us’. The wonder is that God still wants to be ‘with us’ and He still brings hope and peace to all who call on Him. Can I encourage you this Christmas, whether there are many presents or few, to reflect on His presence with you? Whether you are surrounded by people or alone, you need not ever be completely alone because when you open your heart to God He will be ‘with you’. That’s the wonder of Christmas.

Rev. Mohu Lolohea Trinity St. Paul’s Union Parish of Cambridge The Christmas opposite the town hall in Cambridge is a real tree. There is no need to cut a tree somewhere else and bring it over. Real trees are natural, renewable, recyclable products that provide endless benefits to the environment. While growing, trees help keep the air clean and they provide wildlife habitat. And when the holiday season is over, they can be easily recycled into products like mulch that continue to benefit nature. A real Christmas tree connects to the “First Christmas” through its deep symbolism as an evergreen representing eternal life in Christ, echoing ancient customs of evergreens symbolising life in winter. Benefits include fleshly experience (smell/mood), boosting mental health, and supporting local farms, while being a biodegradable, renewable resource that absorbs CO2 and provides habitat—a natural cycle contrasting artificial trees. Choosing a real tree links you to centuries of tradition and nature, embodying the hope and life of the original Christmas story, while also offering tangible environmental and well-being benefits for your family today. “From our homes to yours, we wish you a very Merry Christmas and a happy holiday season! May your days be merry and bright.”

Patsy Way Associate Pastor Cambridge Baptist Church As we count down towards Christmas, on the second Sunday of Advent, the Bethlehem candle of peace was lit in our church, a Bible passage was read (Micah 5:2) and a reflection was shared. Here’s what was said about the Bethlehem Advent candle of peace. ‘The Bethlehem candle invites us into the quiet, unassuming town of Bethlehem – a small town (smaller than Cambridge), often overlooked. Yet God chose this humble setting as the place where the Prince of Peace would be born. Jesus’ birth reminds us that the peace we pray for and seek, doesn’t always arrive with fanfare. Sometimes it slips into our lives quietly, and in unexpected yet profound ways, much like the newborn wrapped in cloth and laying in a manger. True peace is not the absence of conflict or hardship. It is the presence of Christ in the midst of them. Bethlehem shows us that God draws near to the humble, the anxious, the weary and the broken. His peace meets us where we are and transforms our hearts from within. When our lives are filled with anxiety, division, and unrest, the Bethlehem candle calls us to make room for Christ’s peace that passes understanding and challenges us to actively work toward becoming peacemakers – the people of God who reflect His gentle healing presence in our homes, workplaces, schools, and communities. Jesus, Prince of Peace, bring your peace to our homes, our hearts and community, we pray.’

Douglas Kemsley Bridges Church Leadership Team Many reject the idea of a grand narrative – a single story that explains the sweep of human history. However, a grand narrative does exist, and Christmas offers a wonderfully hope-filled opportunity to connect with it. Here are some grand narrative glimpses. Around 2700 years ago the Prophet Micah wrote “… as for you Bethlehem Ephrathah, too little to be among the clans of Judah, from you One will go forth from Me to be ruler in Israel. His goings are from the days of eternity.” This is a prophecy of the coming Messiah. (Micah 5:1-5) 700 years later, the angel Gabriel appears to Mary, not in Judah, but in the Galilee town of Nazareth. He informs her that she will conceive a son by the Holy Spirit, and His name will be Jesus. Among things promised, Gabriel declares “He will be great and His Kingdom will have no end.” (Luke 1:26 – 38) This is the grand narrative intersecting with an ordinary life. Mary says yes and her pregnancy progresses in Nazareth. The grand narrative also progresses; Caesar Augustus issues a decree, that a census be taken, and everyone must register in their hometown. Joseph, betrothed to Mary, sets out with her to his hometown of Bethlehem, and in this way the prophecy of Micah is fulfilled. In Cambridge this Christmas we can connect our ordinary lives to the grand narrative which is still being played out. This is hope for all, if we will accept it.

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CAMBRIDGE NEWS | 7

THURSDAY DECEMBER 18, 2025

Tūī sculpture takes flight Lava domes

ON SHAKY GROUND

By Janine Krippner

Lava domes are fascinating things. In short, they are when a volcano builds a small, unstable, dangerous mountain, that will likely collapse at some point (or many). When lava reaches the surface at a near-solid or solid state, with much of the gases released as it rose through the crust, it can build vertically at the surface and form a large rocky mound, or a dome. When a lava dome is growing, we call this an effusive eruption. These are more evolved magmas than the runnier (lower-viscosity) lava flows we see in videos out of Iceland or Hawaii, but like the majority of those eruptions, they are not explosive. Explosive means that the magma or lava is being blasted apart by violently expanding gases to form volcanic ash and rock chunks. This can form an ash plume or pyroclastic flow. Lava domes can grow from pushing more lava up from the inside, or lava accumulating on the outside. Both scenarios mean that near-solid to solid rock is squeezing through the dome. There will be shaking associated with this, and volcanic gases moving through the system that may cause alteration. This all makes for an unstable situation. To add to it, the lava dome could form on a steep surface, or grow to overtop a crater. They can also reach hundreds of metres in height. After the major eruption of Mount St Helens on May 18, 1980, the eruption period didn’t actually end there. A dome grew within the new crater, reaching around 300m above the crater floor. For reference,

Iwi representatives, Te Awa Lifecare staff, and community members gather to celebrate the installation of The Rise. From left are Mat Shorter, Nikki Belfield, Ricky Winikerei, Mandy Hudson, Sarah Ulmer, Diane Johnstone, June Reynolds, Barbara Edgecombe, Sheryl and Ron Johns, Terry and Meryl Stretton, Marty Dunn, Margaret Goldsmith, Anne Phipps, Anna maria Van Rijen and Laurie Goldsmith. Photo: Mary Anne Gill

By Mary Anne Gill

Mandy Hudson spoke of the collaboration between Te Awa Lifecare and local iwi at the unveiling of a five‑metre‑wingspan tūī sculpture on the Te Awa River Ride this week. The artwork, created by Wānaka artist Nicolas Lupacchino, is the sixth installation in the Cambridge precinct of the Te Awa River Ride Art Trail - a growing outdoor gallery designed to connect people with art, nature, and community. The sculpture, titled The Rise, sits within newly developed wetlands on Te Awa Lifecare’s property, co-owned by Hudson who acknowledged the land’s origins as Ngāti Hauā and Ngāti Korokī Kahukura. “I always feel quite emotional at times like this because I’d really like to recognise (them),” she told a gathering of Te Awa Lifecare residents, iwi and River Ride trail manager Sarah Ulmer this week. “We think it’s a beautiful piece of land. We’re honoured to be asked to be part of this and to

help acknowledge the history of the land and people coming together in community.” The other art on the trail is a mural on the Gaslight Theatre wall and sculptures Wag the dog, Mama Pūkeko, Kowhai Dreaming and tuna kuwharuwharu. Harry Wilson, speaking for both iwi, opened the event with a blessing and shared memories of growing up along the river. He also explained the significance of the pūtātara (conch), played by Ricky Winikerei during the ceremony. The Art Trail, launched last year, was envisioned by Te Awa River Ride Charitable Trust chair Simon Perry and trustee Marlene Julian as a way to enhance the user experience along the 65‑kilometre cycle trail. The Cambridge precinct - stretching from the Gaslight Theatre to the Velodrome - is the first to be developed. Ulmer said the installation of The Rise brings the first precinct close to completion – there will be seven in all. The last will go between the Velodrome and the trail.

the Sky Tower in Auckland is 328 m. If you were to watch a lava dome grow it might not look like anything much was happening. You might see a few rockfalls that kick up dust, and if you were there at night you would see the glow of hot rock. Occasionally you might see a small ash plume. But something else can happen. With all this instability, huge chunks can collapse. When this happens, a blockand-ash flow forms, which is a type of pyroclastic flow with a high portion of solid rock bits with many easily exceeding the size of a car. Additionally, the breaking down of hot rock as it hurtles down the slope releases hot volcanic gases. These flows can destroy everything in their path and bury the landscape in metres of rock, reaching kilometres from the volcano. The deposits I studied for my PhD at Shiveluch volcano in Kamchatka, Russia, reached 19km from the dome. This process can also trigger an explosive eruption, releasing an ash plume high into the atmosphere. This is an example of how a volcanic eruption might not always look like one. While it may appear peaceful, the situation can turn violent in an instant. It’s yet another reason why I have a very healthy respect for volcanoes, and why keeping a good distance can be the best option.

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Values drop across Waipa

By Chris Gardner

The total rateable value for Waipā district has dropped 5.2 per cent to $34.21 billion. Quotable Value New Zealand Upper North Island general manager Joe Holmes told Waipā District Council’s Finance and Corporate Committee the revalutation of 25,644 properties had been conducted across the district on August 1. More than half the properties, 16,622, were residential. Their value fell 7.2 per cent to an average $893,000. Te Awamutu values decreased by 8.8 per cent, Ōhaupō 7.2 per

cent, Cambridge 6.2 per cent, Leamington 6.6 per cent, and Pirongia 1.3 per cent. Holmes said there was a modest supply of vacant land on the outskirts of Cambridge and Te Awamutu, contributing to a general easing in demand. Combined with challenging economic conditions, rising construction costs, and the fluctuating Official Cash Rate, the market had remained subdued and cautious. Lifestyle properties have experienced a sharper decline, falling an average of 13 per cent across the district, including drops of 10.4 per cent in Te

Awamutu and 11.3 per cent in Cambridge. Farm values were a mixed picture. Pastoral property values across the district rose an average 2.9 per cent and dairy farms dropped an average of 3.7 per cent. Holmes said interest was starting to increase for land conversion to kiwifruit or equine properties, although purchasers were paying very little to no premiums over existing dairy use. Holmes said 80 per cent of farms are sold to neighbours looking to expand their operations

Commercial property values were largely unchanged, recording an average increase of 0.5 per cent. Industrial values have rose on average 11.6 per cent. “Strong demand persists for large, good-quality, high-stud industrial buildings in Hautapu and the Rukuhia Hamilton Airport precincts,” Holmes said. Council acting chief financial officer James Graham said the figures followed national trends after a period of very fast growth up to the 2021 peak. Neighbouring Ōtorohanga district recorded an average 8.8 per cent decrease in values.

THURSDAY DECEMBER 18, 2025

Sports fame coming our way Continued from page 3

format screens broadcasting stories, gala highlights, and educational content. There will also be a high-energy infield zone and education programmes. The New Zealand Sports Hall of Fame was established in 1990 as part of New Zealand’s 150th anniversary when 75 athletes were inducted into the then Wellington-based hall. Among them were Waikato jockey Linda Jones, softballer Kevin Herlihy and King Country rugby legend Colin Meads. Added later from Cambridge were rower Rob Waddell, cyclist Sarah Ulmer and equestrian Mark Todd. Today there are 160 members. The NZ Sports Hall of Fame Board will remain independent and continue to select honoured members.

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THURSDAY DECEMBER 18, 2025

Advocacy highlighted

By Mary Anne Gill

The Cambridge Business Chamber has reported it ended the year 440 members strong, firmly positioned to champion local business into the future. Both chief executive Kelly Bouzaid and acting chair David Natzke delivered reports to the annual meeting last week highlighting a year of growth, advocacy, and consolidation. It underscored the chamber’s role as a respected voice for the community, they said. Advocacy remained central, with calls for Tīrau Road on/off ramps, mitigation of quarry traffic, submissions to Waipā’s Long‑Term Plan, and representation on safety, homelessness, and CBD vitality.” The chamber also engaged on environmental concerns around increased truck movements. Record engagement came through the chamber’s events’ calendar, led by the business awards and initiatives such as the Women’s Business Network, Digital Capability series, Leaders Lunch, HIP events, and Cambridge Young Professionals. Preparations are underway for LinkedIn Local Cambridge and a business bootcamp series for small enterprises. “Our job is to ensure the programme is relevant to ensure engagement. The calendar has never been stronger, providing touchpoints for learning,

collaboration, and inspiration.” July marked a milestone as the chamber became the official destination marketing organisation for Cambridge. “We are focused on making digital gold by refreshing cambridge.co.nz with improved functionality and focus on events to stand Cambridge tall for visitor numbers and unlock economic contribution,” she said. “Events and networking continue to be our signature service, with nearly 90 percent of members citing them as top value.” Following chair Tannee Wilson’s resignation in May, governance processes were strengthened with new position descriptions, an updated skills matrix, and induction procedures. “The reality is that the chamber is in good hands,” Natzke said. “Rotating leadership is healthy, and the Cambridge Business Chamber certainly punches well above its weight.” He praised Bouzaid and Membership and Events manager Aroha Croft for their dedication. Next year’s direction will focus on stronger advocacy on infrastructure and policy, innovative events, digital transformation, and financial resilience. “For the Cambridge Business Chamber, it is always about what we can do for our members,” said Aroha Croft, left, and Kelly Bouzaid at the Cambridge Business Natzke. Chamber annual meeting. Photo: Mary Anne Gill

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MP ties knot in the house By Mary Anne Gill

Local Taupō MP Louise Upston married partner Hamish Craig on Saturday - at their Karāpiro home. The couple, who have been together for a decade, surprised friends who came to their house at 6pm by telling them they had married earlier in the afternoon with only extended family present. “It was a very relaxing day with friends and family. We could not have asked for a better Cambridge day,” Upston told The News. Among those to comment on the announcement on social media were Prime Minister Christopher Luxon who said “Wooohoooo!”, fellow MPs, local politicians and party stalwarts. Upston’s dress was from Knuefferman in Auckland but the rest of the day belonged to local suppliers. The cake was from Layers by Ella Kitchen, hair by Ross & Co, nails by Royal Nail, flowers by Ivy Florist and catering by Gourmet Delicious. The celebrants were family friends Hamilton mayor Tim Macindoe and Lisa Mitchell. Upston – maiden name McGill – is the youngest of four children and has three children herself, Hamish, Mac and Jessica. The marriage is her second.

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10 | CAMBRIDGE NEWS

THURSDAY DECEMBER 18, 2025

Comedy ‘roll’ for Barton By Viv Posselt

He’s known more for

his prowess at wheelchair basketball than acting, but Cambridge’s Maioro

Barton’s appearance in the new television comedy series, Educators, has him

buzzing. Barton appears in episode two of series four of the TVNZ comedy series, which hit the airways earlier this month. He plays the role of a school basketball coach who has an in-game tussle with the opposition coach and then does two media sessions. The series also stars Taika Waititi. “It’s pretty funny… I’ve absolutely no experience in acting and it was all improvised on the spot,” Barton told The News. His debut TV appearance was a year in the making. He had been approached by South Pacific Pictures in November 2024 inviting him to audition and was then asked to record himself acting out some of the

scenes. “I asked my work colleague Kate Martin Booker for help with my auditions, because she has some acting experience,” he said. After several days plus a zoom call with the director, Barton heard he had landed the role – with the caveat that he needed to keep the moustache he had grown for Movember. “I had been about to shave it off when they asked me to keep it.” Barton and his mum went up to Auckland for filming, something he said incorporated a long day of filming. The experience hasn’t left Barton with ideas of a movie career, but he did enjoy his brief foray under the spotlight.

Water warning

Cambridge’s Maioro Barton, left, with the comedy series director Jesse Griffin, who was in the 1993 movie Heavenly Creatures with Kate Winslet.

Water restrictions are being announced in Waipā. Water use has spiked – particularly in Cambridge and Kihikihi - during a long hot and relatively dry spell At Water Alert Level One, the use of sprinklers is restricted to between 6am and 8am and 6pm and 8pm. As this edition went to press there was more chance than not of rain Meanwhile the district council met yesterday to adopt its annual report and confirm meeting dates for the year. Former mayor Susan O’Regan and former councillor Lou Brown were also expected to attend for farewells.

Briefs…

Person of the Year

Our sister paper the Te Awamutu News has named Citizens’ Advice Bureau manager Jessica Brown as its 2025 person of the year. Brown celebrates 14 years in the role next month.

Butter plant

Open Country Dairy opened a new $50 million butter factory at its Wahāroa site last week. The plant represents a major boost for the Waikato dairy industry and local economy. The plant will produce 20,000 tonnes of premium unsalted butter each year.

Springs warning

New Zealand Transport Agency say some people accessing one of Waikato’s hidden gems – the Blue Springs and Te Waihou Walkway near Putāruru – are parking on the state highway when there is allocated parking available which South Waikato District Council has recently upgraded.

Cyber report

Waipā District Council’s risk and assurance committee will receive a cyber security report every six months. Senior business resilience and risk advisor Genny Wilson promised the new report at the last committee meeting.

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THURSDAY DECEMBER 18, 2025

Thursday, December 18, 2025 A quick safety note for the holidays With Christmas and summer holidays coming up, it’s a good time for all of us to remember: our homes - and our community - are safer when we stay alert. CommSafe and Neighbourhood Support highlight some basic steps we can all take: Lock your doors and windows - even if you’re just stepping out for a short time. Keep valuables out of sight. That includes gifts under the tree or items visible through windows - and not sharing posts online of your shiny new presents. If you’re away or on holiday: consider asking a friend or neighbour to help out - collect your mail, turn lights on/off, maybe park a car in your driveway so the place doesn’t look empty. Lock sheds, garages, and make sure garden tools or equipment aren’t left outside - burglars often look for easy entry or quick grab items. Delay your social media posts - consider sharing your adventures when you’re back home again, rather than tipping off the wrong person that you’re away. And perhaps most importantly: look out for each other. A friendly wave, checking in on a neighbour’s place especially if someone’s away - goes a long way to keeping Waipā safe.

A message from the Mayor: Celebrating Waipā this Christmas When I ran for Mayor, I focused on three things: getting results, building relationships, and being realistic about what’s achievable. People want to see things get done. That’s the approach I’ll stick to as we work together to make Waipā even better - celebrating wins, facing challenges headIt’s been a huge year for me personally - officially taking on the role of Mayor just over six weeks ago on, and being honest along the way. has been exciting, inspiring and humbling. Even in that short time, it’s really reinforced for me the But for now, it’s time to enjoy the festive season. I energy, the dedication, and heart that make Waipā hope you get the chance to slow down, share a such a great place to live. It makes me proud to few laughs, and enjoy the simple things that make this time of year so special. My family and I will be represent Waipā, and I am grateful for the trust the community has placed in me. doing the same - enjoying Christmas lunch around the table with a traditional glazed ham and then spending plenty of time outdoors, Family has been front and centre for me this year, especially with my daughter’s wedding last month. getting out on the water and catching up with the people who matter most. That milestone reminded me how important it is to stay connected - not just with family but with friends and neighbours too. From all of us, have a safe, joyful and relaxing festive season. I’m looking forward to catching up with you in 2026 and as we continue building Those connections are what make our Waipā - our Home of Champions. communities strong, and why Waipā feels like home for so many of us. Mike Pettit Kia ora koutou, and Merry Christmas! As the year winds down, I wanted to grab a moment to say thanks to everyone in our wonderful Waipā community.

Holiday hours reminder The Council offices and libraries in Te Awamutu and Cambridge will be closed from 5pm Friday, December 19, and will reopen 9am Monday, January 5, 2026. Please note, Te Whare Taonga o Te Awamutu Museum will also be closed during this period. If your enquiry is urgent, please contact our after-hours team on 0800 924 723. During the break, we are unable to respond to reports submitted via the Antenno app. Please call us if you need anything urgently.

Waipā moves to early water restrictions

Alternatively, visit our website waipadc.govt.nz for a range of self-service options (pay your bill, check your recycling day, and more).

Waipā District has moved to level one water restrictions earlier than anticipated. This comes after a sweltering start to summer, which has pushed daily water use across the district up to around 35 million litres – around 40 percent more than the usual average daily use for this time of year.

Please note if your recycling collection falls on Christmas Day or New Year’s Day, your wheelie bin will be picked up the following day.

Under level one, sprinklers should only be used between 6-8am and 6-8pm, while handheld hoses can still be used at any time. The level one restrictions will stay in place over the holiday period and will be reviewed in the New Year.

From all of us, to all of you, have a safe and merry festive season.

For more information about alert levels and water-saving tips, visit smartwater.org.nz

Your Elected Members

Mike Pettit Mayor

Jo Davies-Colley

Deputy Mayor

0800 WAPADC (924 723)

Get in touch: waipadc.govt.nz/our-council/our-team/mayor-and-councillors

Roger Gordon

waipadc.govt.nz

Aidhean Camson

Pip Kempthorne

/WaipaDistrictCouncil

Clare St Pierre

Les Bennett

Shane Walsh

Dean Taylor

Marcus Gower

Mike Montgomerie

Dale-Maree Morgan

12 | CAMBRIDGE NEWS

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Joe’s Garage, at 107 Swayne Rd – “halfway between the high school and the motorway,” is part of a nation-wide franchise. From cooked breakfast, a good range of burgers, fish and chips, pizza, and steak meals, to a wide variety in the cabinet of sweet and savoury, hot and cold foods, Joe’s Garage open seven days a week, will have something to suit.

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CAMBRIDGE NEWS | 13

THURSDAY DECEMBER 18, 2025

Licence to thrill Protest turned to custard By Chris Gardner

Cambridge Primary School celebrated the end of the school year with a James Bond themed awards night. Bond fan and former principal Mike Pettit was invited back to present the dux award to Heath Camson. The 10-year-old won reading, maths, and science cups. Pettit, who left the school after 17 years in October after being elected mayor, spun an elaborate story about receiving mayoress chains for his wife and acting principal Nic Pettit from gadget master Q in Te Awamutu at the awards ceremony. “It was great,” said Nic Pettit. The mayor loves all Bond movies, but is particularly fond of the first Bond movie Dr. No released in 1962 starring Sean Connery. Pettit’s transformation of the school was celebrated last week as he was presented with a bar leaner by immediate past presiding board member Kate Paine. “He’s grown the school from around 200 pupils to 400. He’s a peoples man, and he puts real trust in people to grow their leadership,” Nic said. “The teams of people

who have come through the school have made it what it is,” Mike said. “We have done some great things physically.” Staff rolled up their sleeves to make physical

alterations to the buildings to accommodate growth in Pettit’s time as principal. “The whole family have put a lot into it,” he said. Eight members of his family had ties to the school.

Take Back Power protestors daubed the Crown Jewels in apple pie and custard.

By Chris Gardner

Heath Camson, 10, received the Cambridge Primary School Dux Award from Waipā mayor and former principal Mike Pettit. Photo: Laurenţiu Heath

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Protestors who daubed the case containing the Imperial State Crown in apple crumble and custard in the Tower of London felt the long arm of the law when senior constable Mark Strongman apprehended them. Cambridge based Constable Strongman, who has previous experience as a police negotiator, was visiting the Tower of London with his family when he heard a commotion and saw something had been thrown at the display case. Constable Strongman, who was visiting Europe on leave, is due to return to his role as a member of the Police Commercial Vehicle Safety Team based in Te Awamutu. He has served in the police for nearly 30 years. “I walked up to the two female suspects and introduced myself, informing them that I was arresting them for criminal behaviour and advised them of their rights,” Senior Constable Strongman said. “I took an oath to the Crown so I figured my

arrests procedures would stick. “One was in possession of a backpack so I was concerned about what could be in there so quickly removed that and waited with the females until the Metropolitan Police officers arrived. “As you can imagine, the whole place shuts down when the Crown Jewels are at risk, some very thick steel doors slammed closed. “My wife Carmen and my brother and sister-in-law were ahead of me and had no idea what was happening. “I just dropped straight back into work mode and felt I represented New Zealand Police well and in line with our values.” The Metropolitan Police has already thanked Constable Strongman for a job well done as it acknowledged his timely intervention and use of his police skills in detaining the suspects. His actions ensured there was no further damage to the Crown Jewels, and the Tower of London could remain open to the public. A group calling itself Take Back Power have claimed responsibility for the attack.

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THURSDAY DECEMBER 18, 2025

TALKING ECONOMICS

Next year will be better The year is nearly over and in terms of New Zealand’s economic performance in 2025 and most people will say thank heavens for that. A number of things that happened during the year were expected to lead to economic growth picking up. First, the Reserve Bank lowered its Official Cash Rate six times and it finished the year at 2.25 per cent, its lowest level since May, 2022. Second, export prices for some of our most important exports, such as dairy products and meat, were high. Third, tourism numbers increased, especially from Australia, helped by a sharp fall in the New ZealandAustralia exchange rate. Fourth, despite the government’s rhetoric, the level of government expenditure did not fall. Despite these strong tail winds, the economy appeared to stay flat for most of the year. One reason for this is that there are long lags in some of these policy areas. Some of the impact of the Reserve Bank’s cash rate reductions early in 2025 had still not worked

through to mortgage rates by December because of the impact is only felt when a mortgage is renewed. Also, the devaluation against the Australian dollar only occurred in the latter part of the year. Then there is data lag. When I was writing this column on Sunday the latest gross domestic product data we had was for the June quarter. That data for that quarter was terrible – a fall of 0.9 per cent for the quarter. This was a bigger fall than most had expected and it had a significant negative impact on confidence. The data for the September quarter will come out on Thursday – the day this paper is published. Most commenators are expecting the figure will be a good one and will show that the recovery that we have been expecting for some time has actually been underway for several months. The Department of Statistics also revises the past data each time they put out new data. It is possible that they will revise the June quarter data

By Peter Nicholl

up a bit meaning the quarter wasn’t as bad as we were first told. I was a policymaker in the Reserve Bank and in the Central Bank of Bosnia for over 30 Years. Data issues always loomed large. You never know for sure where the economy will go in the future. You do the best forecasts you can – but they are still forecasts. You can’t be sure where the economy is today as it takes several months for some of the key data to become available. The fact that most economic data gets revised also means that you can’t be sure you know where the economy has been in the recent past. The positive tail winds I listed at the beginning are still blowing. The economy should therefore perform better in 2026 than it has in 2025. When the September quarter data comes it is likely to show the recovery has already started. That’s my cheerful thought for Christmas.

Councillor offers cultural safety advice

By Chris Gardner

Waipā District Council staff have sought cultural safety advice from Māori Ward councillor Dale-Maree Morgan. Morgan asked council people and capability operations manager Clark Collins for an update on cultural safety before sharing she had been approached by a staff member for guidance on who to talk to after finding bones. Collins said it was not a subject he could discuss in depth, but he was happy to support and help drive cultural safety. Morgan said one team member was unaware who to talk to in the event of cultural finds, such as bones. “It concerned me that that person had to come all the way to me to ask for some advice. And that shows me that maybe we’re not putting down to all of our levels the new appointments, and how we might need to just strengthen in that cultural safety part.” Morgan said she had dealt with a

couple of instances that “are just not on the radar”. “It’s about making sure that the manner of how our worker was looked after in that space, as well as how we dealt with it. So, I had to go out and find that support myself. And because the two people that we have appointed were already deep in a lot of other work that was happening at the time as well.” Acting deputy chief executive and strategy group manager Kirsty Downey said there was a process in place relating to discovery protocols. “I think it would be good for me to follow up with you outside of this meeting just to understand the situation and get more information, so that we can ensure that there is the appropriate induction provided through our people managers and through our People and Capability team. Downey said the council had a new Head of People and Capability joining the organisation in January 2026.

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CAMBRIDGE NEWS | 15

THURSDAY DECEMBER 18, 2025

ADVERTORIAL

Choosing a funeral home: What to ask before you decide When the time comes to plan a funeral, whether it’s yours or a loved one’s, the choices you make matter.

Not every funeral provider can offer this assurance. Asking about association membership is one of the most important steps to take.

A funeral is more than just a service; it’s a reflection of a life lived and the family’s way of saying goodbye. In moments like these, you deserve care, dignity, and compassion, along with a funeral home that you can trust to support you, because you and your family deserve nothing less. Here are three important questions to consider before deciding who will provide funeral services.

In times of grief, you need more than a service. You need support. At Grinter’s, we believe every family deserves personalised care. Whatever you need, we’ll do our very best to make it happen, and nothing is ever a problem. We take the time to listen, guide, and create a farewell that truly reflects your loved one’s life and values. Our commitment is simple: your family comes first, always.

Do they follow recognised ethical standards? Funeral care is deeply personal, and families deserve the highest level of competence and integrity. Grinter’s Funeral Home is proud to be a member of the Funeral Directors Association of New Zealand. This means we follow strict ethical principles designed to protect families and ensure professionalism in every aspect of our service. Membership to the Funeral Directors Association of New Zealand is more than a logo – it’s a commitment. It means: • Clear, honest pricing • Respectful and dignified care for your loved one • Accountability to a recognised national standard.

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16 | CAMBRIDGE NEWS

THURSDAY DECEMBER 18, 2025

Eight decades, still on a roll

By Jesse Wood

December 2 marked 80 years since Central Bowling Club Cambridge started and the following week it hosted its 15th annual Sistaz tournament. The club’s upcoming Christmas tournament will be the lowkey, official celebration with a cutting of an 80th birthday cake. Board member and past president Alison Winter said it was important to recognise the milestone after Covid stopped their 75th jubilee. She has been involved for 18 years but remembers the club in the 1960s. “It’s been great to see our club stay strong and celebrate 80 years, because my father – Tom Turnbull

Board member and past president Alison Winter.

– was a past president, life member and patron. I’ve followed along. I’m the only bowler in the family. “It’s an achievement to see how it is today. We’ve got a very good board and many volunteers that keep the club going. “Our membership is strong. We’ve got about 154 members this year, but we have a lot of social members who just like to come, socialise with us and watch the bowls.” The club started in 1945 and the women’s club joined three years later followed by their first official building opening in 1950. Dawn Brittin is in her mid-90s and lives in front of the club. “Dawn was a bowler here for years. She’s been doing the gardens for quite a few years but had to give it up the last four years to doing the ones on the bank,” Alison said. “She was also the cleaner at one stage. She’s a lovely person and done a lot for the club over the years.” Dawn joined the club in 1983 and her father Horace “Hori” Campin was a foundation member. “I believe the idea of a bowling club originated over games of cards on Fridays at

the National Hotel,” Dawn said. “I can remember as a young girl walking past this long, long section covered in big clumps of blackberries and down the back, people dumped rubbish, so what a challenge! “From our farm at Roto-oRangi I can remember Dad coming in for working bees with a small group of men on tractors and trucks for months. The topsoil came from a neighbour’s farm at Roto-o-Rangi. “When it opened in 1945 the clubrooms consisted of not more than a tin shed but each year with raffles etc, things got bigger and better. “In later years when extensions were required, Dad donated some of a section so the clubrooms could become the lovely building we enjoy today.” The club has had many changes and triumphs in those eight decades from getting artificial greens in 1999, claiming (and still holding) three Guinness World Records and producing several New Zealand representatives. The history is all on the clubroom walls and displayed in folders for all to browse. Each year the club

The ladies on the green in 1948.

holds several two-day tournaments. They’ve just had the New Zealand Blind tourney as well as the Sistaz. Close friends Glenys Carter and Gaylene Geary started the Sistaz with 11 teams involved. This year there were 32 from across the North Island – Auckland, Taradale, Thames Valley, Whakatāne and many others. Alison said the

tournament is always successful and has become a big event on the ladies’ calendar. “Some teams are very serious. Others are here for fun, to catch up with old friends and make new friends,” Alison said. “It’s a chance to get away from home and have a break.” Overall, the club is in good health from men’s

to women’s, twilight and everything in between. Alison hopes it will continue for another 80 years – at least. “We’re very lucky to be in the middle of town. Very central to everything,” Alison said. “It’s a lot of work to keep it going. But the volunteers behind the scenes, that don’t always get recognised, are the secret to our success.”

Board member and past president Alison Winter.

Amanda Doyle Associate

Emma Cooney Special Counsel

Jenny Nemaia Legal Asst.

Michelle Way Legal Exec.

68 Queen Street, Cambridge 07 827 3212 www.nwm.co.nz lawyers@nwm.co.nz

CAMBRIDGE NEWS | 17

THURSDAY DECEMBER 18, 2025

Gibbes gets down to business

By Jesse Wood

Jono Gibbes’ first preseason in charge of the Chiefs rugby franchise is underway. The former player and assistant coach – and Te Awamutu Sports player has transitioned smoothly into his new role as head coach after the departure of Clayton McMillan. Pre-season training started last week. “I think it’s a real privilege to have this responsibility. I had some great memories in my time as a player here a long, long time ago,” Gibbes said, “Having the privilege of being able to be in this environment for the last two years, see what it’s been built upon, see what

Merry Christmas

they really hang their hat on here, and what matters and what’s important - I really feel I’m in a place that I belong in. Gibbes has been in the job for a while now but the planning stages are over and it’s action time. “I’ve been pretty busy in the off-season with the transition, taking over, understanding the whole organisation. “Making those new relationships on both sides of the building, understanding the responsibility that goes along with the position of head coach,” Gibbes said. “Then obviously strategy, analysis, philosophy sort of things, organisation, there’s a lot that goes on. “But it gets to a point

weeks really count.” All Blacks back Emoni Narawa is on his return from injury – a great early addition to the squad’s early training. “Jono has been great. He’s no stranger to being in the Chiefs environment. He’s been an assistant coach for the last couple of years,” Narawa said. “He’s quite old school with his ways. Something I admire about him is he’s always wanting to learn from the players. “Jono’s definitely going to bring a lot of experience. We’re looking forward to the new challenge and working with him. “He knows how we want to play, and I guess the next three weeks of pre-season, it’s just about building

Seasons Greetings

and happy New Year from the team at Five Stags New Years Eve open for dining till 9pm. Closed 25 & 26 Dec and 1 & 2 Jan.

where it’s all theory and really now the excitement and the energy in the building is because we’re actually doing things. “It’s stimulating, there’s good energy around the place and we’re hungry to work.” After the first few days of pre-season training he’s found it “energising”. “I’ve found the first few days really energising. I get my energy from the people around me,” Gibbes said. “There’s been a lot of theory, planning and discussions. But now we’re in together and we’re working. “For me, I can feed off that energy of the staff here, the assistant coaches, and we’re just hungry to get into it and try and make these three

You’ve been a big part of our year wishing you warm holiday cheer! Closed 22 December Open 5 January

Merry Christmas CCambridge

the foundation. That’s our fitness, work in the gym and our skills on the grass. “The Chiefs’ way of playing is always different, and a bit of flair. The DNA is always there.” Gibbes said after a few years with the franchise, he recognises what makes the Chiefs so consistent. “[You can recognise] what’s made it really strong and what it’s built on. You respect that and you protect that. There’s a lot of things in the system of preparation,” Gibbes said. “There’s a lot of things that make up the Chiefs’ DNA that you want to protect, keep in place and keep building on. “But then obviously where I put my lens on things, is slightly different

to Clayton’s. But that’s not unusual. “We always have to keep finding a way to evolve and take our game to another level.”

HOLIDAY HOURS 2025-2026 We would like to wish all our valued customers a very Merry Christmas and Best Wishes for 2026

Thank you to all our patients throughout 2025 Merry Christmas to all and have a Happy New Year!

From the girls at

Footloose

Wishing you a safe and joyous holiday season from the CRE team! OFFICE HOLIDAY HOURS: CLOSED 12 NOON 22 DEC 2025 - OPEN 05 JAN 2026

We will be closed December 25 26 and January 1 2

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Te Awamutu’s Jono Gibbes is the new Chiefs head coach. Photo: Jesse Wood

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MERRY CHRISTMAS FROM THE FLORIDA CREW

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L AW Y E R S

Our final business day for 2025 will be Tuesday 23 December. Our offices will open from Monday 5 January 2026 with skeleton staff. Full staff return Monday 12 January 2026.

The team at Lewis Lawyers wish you a Merry Christmas and a happy and safe New Year. Experienced professionals. Local specialists. Quality advice.

Closed for the stats otherwise open for you Landscape supplies bring your greenwaste too

8278494

Cambridge | 07 827 5147 Hamilton | 07 848 1222 www.lewislawyers.co.nz

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Seasons Greetings HOLIDAY HOURS 2025-2026

18 | CAMBRIDGE NEWS

THURSDAY DECEMBER 18, 2025

HOLIDAY WHEELIE BIN COLLECTION

Thursday 25/12 Friday 26/12

Friday 26/12 Saturday 27/12

Thursday 01/01 Friday 02/01

Friday 02/01 Saturday 03/01

If your wheelie bin collection falls on Christmas or New Years Day we will catch it up the following day. Merry Christmas from everyone at Cambridge Hire Bins 07 827 3375 • www.cambins.co.nz

Phone 827 8442. Open Mon-Thurs 9.00am-6.00pm 60 Duke Street, Cambridge (parking at rear)

We will be closing on Friday 19th December 2025 @ 5pm and reopening on Monday 12th January 2026 @ 8am. We would like to wish you all a Very Merry Christmas and a Happy and Prosperous New Year for 2026!

- Julie & Paul

MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A HAPPY NEW YEAR FROM THE TEAM AT EDMONDS JUDD

Our clinic will be closed for the Christmas break from 23rd December 2025 and will reopen on Monday 5th January 2026.

Wishing all our patients a Merry Christmas and all the best for the New Year

CambridgeTiles would like to take this opportunity to thank all our clients for their continued support throughout 2025.

bridge Physiotherapy Cam & Acupuncture Clinic

Our Ōtorohanga and Cambridge offices will close at 4:30pm on Friday, 19 December. Our Te Awamutu office will close at 12:00pm on Monday, 23 December. Te Awamutu will reopen with partial staffing from Wednesday, 7 January between 9:00am and 3:00pm. Normal office hours and full staffing for all offices

will resume from Wednesday, 14 January. See you in the New Year!

TE AWAMUTU ŌTOROHANGA CAMBRIDGE 486 Alexandra St 142 Maniapoto St 79 Victoria St 07 872 0236 | THE LAWYERS@EDMONDSJUDD.CO.NZ WWW.EDMONDSJUDD.CO.NZ

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Ph: 07 872 0923

Mega Centre, 670 Cambridge Rd, Te Awamutu Monday to Friday: 8am to 8pm Saturday and Sunday: 9am to 3pm Public Holidays: 9am to 3pm

HOLIDAY HOURS • Monday 22nd Dec

8am-6pm

• Monday 29th Dec

• Tuesday 23rd Dec

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• Tuesday 30th Dec

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• Wednesday 24th Dec

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• Wednesday 31st January

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• Thursday 25th Dec

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• Thursday 1st January

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• Friday 26th Dec

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• Friday 2nd January

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CAMBRIDGE NEWS | 19

THURSDAY DECEMBER 18, 2025

Andrew Giltrap and the team would like to thank all our customers for their support in 2025 and wish everyone a prosperous 2026!

V VICTORIA STATION

Closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Year’s Day 1st & 2nd January 2026

UK FOODS & CONFECTIONARY

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The Accounted4 Team wishes all our clients and business contacts a very Merry Christmas and a Safe, Prosperous andbusiness Happy New Year! The Accounted4 all our clients and contacts aa very The Teamwishes wishes clients business contacts very TheAccounted4 Accounted4 Team Team wishes allall ourour clients andand business contacts very aMerry Merry Christmas anda Safe, a in Safe, Prosperous and Happy New Year! Thank you for Merry your business and support 2023 and we and lookHappy forward to working with you all in 2024. Christmas and Prosperous New Year! Our office will be closed from 3pm Friday 22 December, re-opening 8.30am Monday 15 January. Thank and support in and we look forward to working 2024. business and year and you for with you you all in 2026. Thank you for your your business business andsupport supportthis in 2023 2023 andwe welook lookforward forward to to working working with all in 2024. Our offi ce will be closed from 3pm Friday 22 December, re-opening 8.30am Monday 15 January. Our office will bebe closed from 4pm, Tuesday January. Our office will closed from 3pm Friday 23 22December, December,re-opening re-opening 8.30am 8.30amWednesday Monday 1514January.

Accounted4 Business Manager, Christine Stevenson (centre), and Client Payroll and Tax Cambridge Christmas Committee Administration Manager,Cheer Carolyn Lawrence members, Amy Watkins, far left, Annette (right), recently visited the Cambridge Cambridge Christmas Cheer Committee Christmas Cheer Toy Room where they Willis, Marie Payne, left front, and were Julie members, AmybyWatkins, far left, given a tour Amy Watkins (left)Annette from Epps, far right, were presented with a Willis, Marie Payne, left and Julie Willis, Marie Payne, left front, front, and Julie Community House. $1000Cambridge donation by Accounted4 Director

Epps, far right, were presented with Epps, far right, were presented with a a Accounted4 is proud toBusiness continue supporting Geoff Hurst and Manager $1000 donation by Accounted4 Director $1000 donation by Accounted4 Director local Cambridge families in needdonation by donating Christine Stevenson. The is Geoff Hurst and Business Manager $1500 to this initiative in lieu of client gifts. in lieu of client gifts and goes towards Christine Stevenson. The donation is food welfare for gifts needy families in the in lieu goes in lieu of of client client gifts and and goes towards towards Cambridge community at Christmas time. food food welfare welfare for for needy needy families families in in the the Cambridge community at Christmas time.

www.accounted4.co.nz www.accounted4.co.nz www.accounted4.co.nz

20 | CAMBRIDGE NEWS

THURSDAY DECEMBER 18, 2025

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24 | CAMBRIDGE NEWS

Blue Sep

At Herbert Morton we are Next Publication Date Thursday 22 January dedicated to providing timely Booking Deadline: and Monday 12 Januarytailored accurate solutions to suit your individual needs. Copy Setting: Wednesday 14 January Finished Artwork: Friday 16 January Proudly Supporting

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We are closed from mid-day Friday 19th December & will re-open Monday 5th January. 07 827 7188

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Cnr Oliver & Queen Street, Cambridge Phone: 823 0553 www.mitre10mega.co.nz

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The team at Shelley Tweedy &

Proud to would be like to thank Associates our clients for their support and supporting business during 2025. We wishSeptember you Blue Proud toallbea Merry Christmas Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from the team at S & A Auto Services Closed 19 December – 5 January 11 Matos Segedin Drive, Leamington, Cambridge 07-823 2266 admin@sanda.nz

and a safe New Year

supporting Our office will close for the Christmas break on Monday 22nd Blue September December and will open

Monday 12th January 2026. office@shelleytweedy.co.nz 07 827 6102 3/47 Wilson St, Cambridge 3434 office@shelleytweedy.co.nz www.shelleytweedy.co.nz 07 827 6102

3/47 Wilson St, Cambridge 3434 www.shelleytweedy.co.nz

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CAMBRIDGE NEWS | 21

THURSDAY DECEMBER 18, 2025

Cambridge Tree Trust

Advertorial

Holiday timetable

www.treetrust.org.nz

Five-finger Manuka? (Neopanax/ Kanuka? Pseudopanax They both get called Tea Tree so is there a arboreum) difference between these

two very common New Zealand native trees? The answer is yes. The Latin name for Manuka is Leptospermum scoparium, and for Kanuka, Kunzea ericoides. But they don’t grow in the wild with Latin labels attached, so how to tell the difference? Growing in boggy ground it will be Manuka because Kanuka does not like wet feet, but both will tolerate dry sites. Eventually Kanuka will grow taller than Manuka by several metres but who can wait that long to identify a plant. Some people say they can tell the difference by the feel of the leaves, Manuka being more prickly than Kanuka, but I think that this depends partly on the age of the spray that you draw through your hand. So far not very helpful, but Christmas is the very best time of year to actually see the difference, when both are covered in white

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flowers. The flowers of Manuka are single (photo on the left), while those of Kanuka are smaller and occur in little clusters (photo on the right). Looking closer you can also see that the stamens of the Kanuka flower are much more prominent than those of the Manuka. So yes they are different, but at Christmas they have one thing in common; a branch of either one will make a very nice miniature Christmas tree decorated with little red paper bells and stars, Scandinavian style. It won’t last as long as a pine tree so be prepared to replace it after a few days. Happy Christmas!

THURS 25 DEC - SUN 4 JAN 2026

Check the holiday timetables at busit.co.nz/holidays

Cambridge Tree Trust would like to thank Mitre 10 for their support for these

monthly articles which are intended to raise interest and awareness of trees in Cambridge.

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Cambridge Cambridge 51 Grosvenor Street 4

Set upon an impressive 1,012sqm freehold section, this four-bedroom home embodies space, light, and effortless sophistication. From the moment you step inside, the sense of quality is undeniable. The designer kitchen forms the heart of the home - sleek, functional, and fitted with premium Bosch appliances. Its refined palette and clean lines set the tone for the rest of the residence, flowing seamlessly into expansive open-plan living spaces bathed in natural light.

Leamington 8 De La Mare Drive

2 4 4 2 Step inside to discover four spacious bedrooms, including a master suite with walk-in robe and ensuite, and enjoy the flexibility of two separate living areas ideal for growing families or entertaining guests. Year round comfort is assured with ducted heating, while the stunning covered outdoor area with fireplace invites long evenings under the stars with friends and family.

For Sale $1,369,000 View by appointment or scheduled open home times www.kdre.co.nz/CB6767

Rebekah Bloodworth M 022 361 9879 Cassie Emmett M 027 215 9334

For Sale Price By Negotiation View by appointment or scheduled open home times www.kdre.co.nz/CB6697

Nicola Fitchett M 027 228 0825 Gary Stokes M 021 351 112

Tauwhare 624 Scotsman Valley Road

4 2 8172sqm 2 Step inside to generous open-plan living, where fullheight glazing floods the home with natural light and frames private green views. The sleek kitchen anchors the space, flowing easily to dining and lounge zones all designed for connection, comfort and ease. A separate second lounge provides that essential extra living space for family life.

Cambridge 2 Alan Livingston Drive 4

Set on a sunny north-facing corner section in the sought-after St Kilda community, 2 Alan Livingston Drive captures modern sophistication but also relaxed family living. Built in 2017, this contemporary home is designed for those who value both comfort and style, offering four spacious bedrooms, three beautifully appointed bathrooms (including two luxurious en-suites), and three versatile living areas ideal for family gatherings or quiet retreats.

For Sale $1,400,000 View by appointment or scheduled open home times www.kdre.co.nz/CB6782

Gary Stokes M 021 351 112 Nicola Fitchett M 027 228 0825

For Sale Price By Negotiation View by appointment or scheduled open home times www.kdre.co.nz/CB6756

Cassie Emmett M 027 215 9334 Rebekah Bloodworth M 022 361 9879

year-round beside the warmth of a striking outdoor gas fire-

07 827 8815

57 Duke Street, Cambridge

kdre.co.nz

place. Here, evenings@harcourtskdre linger a little longer, laughter carries into Harcourts Kevin Deane Real Estate

Licensed REAA 2008

22 | CAMBRIDGE NEWS

THURSDAY DECEMBER 18, 2025

Merry Christmas Cambridge WISHING YOU A SAFE AND FESTIVE HOLIDAY SEASON!

Our Residential, Lifestyle & Rural Team

Graham Ban

Paulette Bell

M: 027 448 7658 E: GRAHAM@CAMREAL.CO.NZ

M: 021 245 6888 M: 021 0226 6622 E: PAULETTE@CAMREAL.CO.NZ E: AMY@CAMREAL.CO.NZ

RESIDENTIAL & LIFESTYLE

Amy de Clifford

RESIDENTIAL & LIFESTYLE

Lisa Dudfield

RESIDENTIAL & LIFESTYLE

Kane Jacobson

Trevor Morris

M: 021 272 2755 E: LISA@CAMREAL.CO.NZ

M: 027 389 0301 E: KANE@CAMREAL.CO.NZ

M: 027 205 3246 E: TREVOR@CAMREAL.CO.NZ

Eilish Russell

Kevin Russell

Rachael Seavill

M: 027 300 0002 E: EILISH@CAMREAL.CO.NZ

M: 021 227 5482 E: KEV@CAMREAL.CO.NZ

M: 027 722 4235 M: 027 247 1900 E: RACHAEL@CAMREAL.CO.NZ E: LENIE@CAMREAL.CO.NZ

RESIDENTIAL & LIFESTYLE

Lenie Senekal

RESIDENTIAL & LIFESTYLE

David Soar

Debbie Towers

Matt Seavill

RURAL & LIFESTYLE

M: 027 689 8696 E: DEBBIE@CAMREAL.CO.NZ

M: 027 444 3347 E: MATT@CAMREAL.CO.NZ

M: 027 284 9755 E: DAVID@CAMREAL.CO.NZ

RESIDENTIAL & LIFESTYLE

Supporting our Community The commitment Cambridge Real Estate has to the community runs deep. As a company, we support many community organisations, events and projects throughout the year. Below are the main groups and organisations we support in an effort to ensure our vibrant community thrives.

ROWING

CAMBRIDGE NEWS | 23

THURSDAY DECEMBER 18, 2025

47 Alpha Street, Cambridge | 07 823 1945 | sales@cambridgerealestate.co.nz

Residential Listings* PRICED

PRICED CONT.

8B Maclean Street (Section)

$499,000

Contact Graham

49 Cowley Drive

$1,335,000

Contact Rachael

46C Queen Street

$585,000

Contact Rachael

19 Honiss Place

$1,435,000

Contact Graham

58B Bryce Street

$659,000

Contact Eilish, Kevin or Amy

32 Hugo Shaw Drive

$1,490,000

Contact Paulette or Kane

29 Stafford Street

$699,000

Contact Eilish, Amy or Kevin

71 Swayne Road

NOW $1,699,000

Contact Paulette or Kane

125 Burns Street

$759,000

Contact Debbie or Trevor

5 Cooper Crescent

$1,950,000

Contact Eilish, Amy or Kevin

14 One Haruru Street

$785,000

Contact Paulette or Kane

BY NEGOTIATION

12A Oneone Street

OFFERS OVER $850,000

Contact Paulette or Kane

12B Oneone Street (Section)

PBN

Contact Paulette or Kane

20 Oneone Street

TURNKEY $850,000

Contact Paulette or Kane

4 Sargeson Place NEW

PBN

Contact Paulette or Kane

SOLD

4 Buckland Place

Marketed by Eilish, Amy & Kevin

11 Manuka Place

PBN

Contact Paulette or Kane

4 Frances Hunt Lane

$869,000

Contact Paulette or Kane

277 Shakespeare Street

PBN

Contact Graham

9A Keats Terrace NEW

$935,000

Contact Lenie

16 Marlowe Drive

PBN

Contact Eilish, Amy or Kevin

2/102 Swayne Road

$939,000

Contact Paulette or Kane

107 Thornton Road

PBN

Contact Paulette or Kane

33 Alpers Ridge

$960,000

Contact Eilish, Amy or Kevin

317 Shakespeare Street

PBN

Contact Eilish, Amy or Kevin

47 Campbell Street

$980,000

Contact Lenie

27 Terry Came Drive

PBN

Contact Graham

1 Longfellow Street

$985,000

Contact Rachael

205/86 Alpha Street

PBN

Contact Paulette or Kane

8 Oaklands Drive

$999,000

Contact Graham

1C Fairburn Place NEW

PBN

Contact Graham

4 Libby Crescent

NOW $1,049,000

Contact Eilish, Amy or Kevin

5A Vogel Street

PBN

6 Upper Kingsley Street

NOW $1,049,000

Contact Debbie or Trevor

46 Bowen Street

18 Tulip Drive

$1,099,000

Contact Eilish, Amy or Kevin

25/102 Swayne Road

PBN

Contact Eilish, Amy or Kevin

64A Princes Street

$1,300,000

Contact Eilish, Amy or Kevin

26 Thornton Road

PBN

Contact Eilish, Amy or Kevin

19 Honiss Place

$1,435,000

Contact Graham

36A Hall Street

PBN

Contact Eilish, Amy or Kevin

14 Alba Place

$1,167,000

Contact Eilish, Amy or Kevin

1 Soma Place

PBN

Contact Lenie

134 Williams Street

$1,180,000

Contact Eilish, Amy or Kevin

33A Isobel Hodgson Drive

NOW PBN

Contact Graham

2 Keri Rua Road

NOW $1,195,000

Contact Eilish, Amy or Kevin

8 Madison Street

NOW PBN

Contact Rachael

3B Te Rerenga Terrace

$1,239,000

Contact Lenie

74 Hugo Shaw Drive

PBN

Contact Graham

10 Kaaka Street

$1,269,000

Contact Paulette or Kane

2 Moemoea Place

PBN

Contact Eilish, Amy or Kevin

Contact Debbie or Trevor

SOLD

Marketed by Debbie & Trevor

TOTAL NUMBER OF RESIDENTIAL PROPERTIES UNDER CONTRACT (AS OF 16/12/2025) = 9 *Property & pricing details are correct as of 16/12/2025

Lifestyle & Rural Listings* PRICED

PRICED CONT.

1091 Arapuni Road

5712m²

$320,000

Contact David

62 Hicks Road

415 Brunskill Road

7145m²

$449,000

Contact David

93A Woodside Road

1A Sanders Street

430m²

$525,000

Contact David

629 Tauwhare Road

5000m²

$1,895,000

Contact David

351 Scotsman Valley Road

6602m²

$645,000

Contact David

445 Luck at Last Road

2.5ha (approx.)

$2,190,000

Contact David

Lot 2, 174 Harbutt Road

3.16ha (approx.)

$680,000

Contact Matt

146 French Pass Road

6.6ha (approx.)

$2,950,000

Contact David

7 Riverside Lane

5129m²

$790,000

Contact David

BY NEGOTIATION

624 Maungatautari Road

3678m²

$825,000

Contact Matt

438 Matangi Road

PBN

Contact Matt

70 Rangatira Road

995m²

$1,130,000

Contact David

31A Riverside Lane

Marketed by David

SOLD

1/88 Maungakawa Road

5000m²

$1,699,000

SOLD

1.95ha (approx.)

Contact Matt Marketed by David

SOLD

Sold Off-Market by David

124 Rangatira Road

801m²

PBN

Contact Matt

3/39 Maungakawa Road NEW

4362m²

$1,630,000

Contact David

224 Fencourt Road

4220m²

NOW PBN

Contact Paulette or Kane

347 Racecourse Road

3345m²

$1,635,000

Contact Matt

640 Maungatautari Road

8431m²

PBN

Contact Matt

298 Kaipaki Road

3560m²

$1,645,000

Contact David

TOTAL NUMBER OF LIFESTYLE & RURAL PROPERTIES UNDER CONTRACT (AS OF 16/12/2025) = 3 *Property & pricing details are correct as of 16/12/2025

Cambridge Real Estate Office Christmas Closure Wishing you a safe and joyous holiday season from the CRE team! Closed 12 Noon Monday 22 December 2025 — Open Monday 05 January 2026 Our agents will be available via mobile during this time

24 | CAMBRIDGE NEWS

THURSDAY DECEMBER 18, 2025

What makes Bayleys Altogether Better? It’s the energy we bring to everything we do. Every property has its own energy, from the warmth that makes a house feel like home, to the legacy of a family farm, the rhythm of a retail precinct or the potential of a brand-new development. At Bayleys, we’re relentless about bringing out that energy in every property we sell, lease or manage, and bring our own unique energy to every detail, every conversation, every interaction. Of course, success takes more than energy. It also calls for an unwavering commitment to service from the first handshake until the deal is done. As a result, more people take notice, the right people show up, and more value is achieved. Talk to the team at Bayleys Cambridge today.

07 823 1540 | bayleys.co.nz/cambridge Lakewood Unit 1, Block C, 36 Lake Street SUCCESS REALTY LTD, BAYLEYS, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008

Residential / Commercial / Rural / Property Services

bayleys.co.nz

THURSDAY DECEMBER 18, 2025

32 | CAMBRIDGE NEWS

CAMBRIDGE NEWS | 25

EXPERTS AIR CONDITIONING

AIR CONDITIONING

Heat Pump Specialists • Sales, service and installation

Air Conditioning Group Waikato are your specialists for Heating, Cooling and Ventilation for Homes, Rentals, Businesses and Commercial Buildings.

SERVICE REPAIR MAINTENANCE of all makes and models

• Serving Cambridge, Otorohanga, Te Awamutu and surrounding areas

PHONE: 0508 224 7687 MOBILE: 027 514 1521

Call today: 0800 772 887 Web: www.pratts.co.nz

www.aircongroupwaikato.co.nz

ARBORISTS

All aspects of tree work, private jobs and large commercial contracts. Digger with grapple / chippers, stump grinding, mulch sales.

QUALIFIED • FULLY INSURED 027 514 0341 or contact form on website

info@wilsontrees.co.nz www.wilsontrees.co.nz CAR RENTALS

 Hedge Trimming  Clear driveways for emergency services  Tree felling • Free quotations and  Reductions/pruning home appraisals  Tree removal • Sales, service and  Wood chipping installation  Stump grinding • Serving Cambridge, FullyOtorohanga, qualified and insured with  Storm damage Te Awamutu over 10 years experience and surrounding areas  Tidy for pre-sale/rental Call us 0277214184 properties For a free no obligation quote  Firewood and772 Mulch887 sales Call today: 0800 find us on Facebook Search for us on Google Web:www.pratts.co.nz Wood splitting

Heat Pump Specialists

• Free quotations and home appraisals

CAMBRIDGE AND SURROUNDING AREAS

ARBORISTS AIR CONDITIONING

BUILDERS BUILDERS

BUILDERS

New Homes | Renovations & Alterations Bungalows & Villas | Landscape Building Free Quotes & Consultations M. 027 278 8833

E. k.g.builder@xtra.co.nz

CUSTOM FURNITURE

High end builds, renovations, decks, everyday maintenance New Homes | Renovations & Alterations Bungalows & Villas | Landscape Building licensed LBP Free Quotes & Consultations

Ryan 021 245 8068

M. 027 278 8833 A/H. 07 827 7362 E. k.g.builder@xtra.co.nz

EXTERIORDRAINAGE CLEANING SERVICE

Cambridge Owned & Operated Explore the Waikato with Cambridge Rental Cars

Available for hire:

 Cars  12 seater mini bus  Jumbo removal van

Custom Made Sofas Recover Upholstery Specialists Indoor & Outdoor Squabs

39 Empire Street M: 021 894633 P: 07 827 5002

HOUSE WASHING - ROOF TREATMENTS GUTTERS - MOSS REMOVAL 100’SContact OF SATISFIED CLIENTS Tony Ph: www.ewash.co.nz 027 302 1662 Email: tony@breakingground.co.nz Phone Mark for a FREE Quote www.breakingground.co.nz

www.cambridgecarrentals.co.nz

827 7386 | 027 432 2412

EXTERIOR CLEANING SERVICES

GARDENING GARDENING

Laser'

Cambridge Owned & Operated

Cambridge Garden Maintenance

Laser Electrical Cambridge

HOUSE WASHING - ROOF TREATMENTS GUTTERS - MOSS REMOVAL 100’S OF SATISFIED CLIENTS www.ewash.co.nz

ELECTRICIAN

"Totally Dependable'

Your complete electrical professionals

Ph: 027 482 7851

Phone Mark for a FREE Quote 827 7386 | 027 432 2412 KINDERGARTENS

Landscaping  Planting  Hedges trimmed  Trees trimmed New lawns  Weed control  Pruning  General cleanup Rubbish removed  House washed  Water blasting Gutter cleared  Building  Painting Irrigation systems  Free quotes

NO JOB TOO SMALL One offs, Weekly, Fortnightly or Monthly Phone Carl 022 100 8265 www.cambridgegardenmaintenance.co.nz

LPG PAINTING

PAINTING

FLOW FX DECORATING

WHERE COLOUR FINDS IT FLOW Interior & Exterior Specialists | 5 Year Workmanship Warranty Renovations & New Builds | Residential & Commercial FREE Quotes

022 544 6538

info@flowfxdecorating.co.nz

Regular LPG Regular LPG Deliveries J.EDeliveries BRADLEY Cambridge and

Painter & Decorator Cambridge and Cambridge and surrounding areas areas surrounding areas 7surrounding Day Cylinder Fill 77 Day Cylinder Day Cylinder Fill – All Sizes Fill – All All Sizes Sizes – DON’T –SWAP – REFILL – ––Local DON’T SWAP –– REFILL DON’T REFILL andSWAP Loyal since 1888 –– JIM BRADLEY 027 254 2318

INTERIOR EXTERIOR PAINTING ROOF PAINTING

88 88 Duke Duke St, St, Cambridge Cambridge Ph Ph 827 827 7456 7456

26 | CAMBRIDGE NEWS

THURSDAY DECEMBER 18, 2025

EXPERTS PAINTING

Painting & Decorating Services Interior & exterior brush & roller work Wallpapering, house washing Local, reliable, professional Over 30 years experience 0211519730 jonbedford87@gmail.com

CHURCH NOTICES May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. ROMANS 15:13

Christmas SERVICES dec 21 from 9:30 am Family Christmas Service

dec 25 from 9:00 am Christmas Day Service

NO SERVICE ON THE 28TH OF DEC! 28 Duke Street, Cambridge 07 827 3833 | www.bridgeschurch.co.nz

PAINTING

• Exterior house restoration specialist • Roof restoration • Water blasting • Airless spraying technician • Gib stopping/Level5 Skim Coating

Glenn Tarplett • FREE QUOTES mbl: 027 489 1299 • topshelfplasterpaint@gmail.com TOPSHELFPLASTERPAINT.COM

Plumbing Gasfitting Drainlaying Central Heating P: 07 823 7263

www.cominsplumbing.co.nz PLUMBING

Need a plumber?

BRINGINGGOD’S GOD’SHIDDEN HIDDEN BRINGING TREASUREINTO INTOTHE THELIGHT LIGHT TREASURE

Haere mai / Welcome Come to our Come along along church service Come along Cambridge Kids 9:30 am Sunday to and our Christmas Day service 9.30am Sunday& crèche ’s 9:30am Church with Children 58 Queen Street Ph 07 827 6490 6490

Cambridge Seventh-Day Adven�st Church

Cr. Shakespeare & Browning Streets Bible Study Each Saturday: 9.30am – 10.45am

Worship Service: 11.00am

Like us on Facebook: h�ps://www.facebook.com/cambridge.sda.9 email: cambridge.sda.nz@gmail.com Phone: 021 277 1909

HOUSEHOLD ITEMS, tools, camping gear and toys. Saturday 20 December. 63A Kings Street, Cambridge. 7.30am to 2pm

SERVICES

CCITY

LOCAL

WIDE D

ROOF CLEANING SPECIALISTS 100’S OF SATISFIED CLIENTS

SITUATIONS VACANT NANNY WANTED Professional couple seek part time nanny for three children. Call or text Maria 022 6970 577

SERVICES

• ROOF TREATMENTS • MOSS & LICHEN REMOVAL • PRE-PAINT ROOF CLEANING • TILE ROOFS • COLOURSTEEL ROOFS • DECRAMASTIC TILE ROOFS

GARAGE CARPET • Supply & Install • Best Rate’s • Top Workmanship • Free Quote

Luke’s

Call

• Free Quotes • Local & Reliable Service • All Types of Windows • Windows inside and out • Sills & Frames • Competitive Prices • One-time or consistent visits

THE GARAGE CARPET GUYS PUBLIC NOTICES

FIRST PUBLICATION 2026 ADVERTISING DEADLINES FIRST PUBLICATION DATE

Window Cleaning Services What We Offer

027 448 5240

022 318 3298 INSTANT CASH $$$$$ Up to $5000

Thursday, 8 January, 2026

RUN OF PAPER ADVERTISING Booking & Copy Deadline

Hope Channel – Freeview Ch 27, Sky 204

Noon Friday, 12 December, 2025

We oﬀer detailed study of the Bible and inspiring worship experiences.

4pm Tuesday, 16 December, 2025

All Welcome.

• Bathroom Renovations • Gas Hot Water • Repairs, Service, Installation

Your local heating specialist

WANTED TO BUY. Any ute, van, 4WD, truck or car. Any condition doesn’t have to be going. Cash paid. Ph/txt Kevin 027 299 6165

827 7386

cambapchurch cambapchurch www.cambridgebaptist.co.nz www.cambridgebaptist.co.nz

PLUMBING

0800 PRATTS

GARAGE SALES

PHONE MARK GORDON

Master plaster/painter

107A HAUTAPU ROAD, CAMBRIDGE

WANTED TO BUY

Finished Artwork

CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING Booking, Copy Setting & Payment Deadline 5pm Monday, 15 December, 2025

Office closed from 5pm December 16 2025 Reopens 9.30am January 5 2026

WE BUY ANY JUNK VEHICLES CONDITIONS APPLY

CARS, TRUCKS, SUVs, TRACTORS, FORKLIFTS

7 DAYS FREE PICK-UP Phone Tiger or Ray 0800 668 833 027 433 3338 or 07 823 6500

CHURCH NOTICES

A division of Pratts

AVAILABLE FROM: 10 Albert Street, Cambridge 07 827 5400 | cambridge@pratts.co.nz | www.pratts.co.nz

Other Showroom Locations: 6 Main North Road, Otorohanga | 100 Roche St, Te Awamutu

WINDOW TINTING

Car and Home tinting

56 King Street West, Te Kuiti

Waikato Call: 0800 TINT A CAR 027 802 9937 Email: waikato@tintacar.co.nz

Join us this Sunday at Raleigh St. Christian centre, Christmas Eve Service 24 Dec 7-8pm and then no services until 04 Jan 2026, 9.30am.

For live stream: www.rscc.co.nz

GOT A NEWS TIP? email editor@goodlocal.nz

Corner of Queen and Bryce Street

“A Spiritual WHAT CHILD Deep in our iPod” IS THIS? hearts. Sunday service at 10am will be lead by Rev. Alistair McBride. Sunday Service Service at Sunday at10am 10am will be led will be led by by Rev. Mohu Lolohea. Rev. Mohu Lolohea www.cambridgeunion.nz

CAMBRIDGE NEWS | 27

THURSDAY DECEMBER 18, 2025

PUBLIC NOTICES

We wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and safe holiday season We are closed from 2pm, 24th December for statutory days and weekends only. Open 29th, 30th, 31st December 9am-2pm. Normal hours resume Monday 5th January 2026 from 9am-4.30pm. Justice of the Peace service last day is Monday 22nd. December and starts again Monday 5th January 2026.

NOTICE OF INTENTION TO CONSIDER TEMPORARY ROAD CLOSURES Waipā District Council will consider an application to close the following roads to ordinary vehicular traffic on Sunday, 22 March 2026 from 12pm to 8:30pm, to enable organisers to hold the Cambridge Cycling Festival: • Alpha Street – between Bryce Street and Victoria Street • Dick Street – between Queen Street and Duke Street • Duke Street – between Hallys Lane and Commerce Street • Victoria and Alpha Street exits from Hally’s Lane • Victoria Street – between Queen Street and Commerce Street • Lake Street – between Kirkwood Street and Victoria Street • Alpha Street – between Victoria Street and Empire Street The application will be considered under the Tenth Schedule of the Local Government Act 1974.

DEATH NOTICES

STAMP, Douglas John – Peacefully on Saturday, 13 December 2025, surrounded by his family, aged 74 years. Loved son of Peggy and Gordon (both deceased). Treasured husband of Brenda. Adored father of Jason and Suzie, Ange and Tony, Laura and Andy, and Donna and Kelly. Grandfather of nine and great-grandfather of two. Messages to the ‘Stamp Family’ can be sent c/- Grinter’s Funeral Home, 3 Hallys Lane, Cambridge 3434 or in Doug’s online tribute book at www.grinters. co.nz. A funeral service for Doug will take place at St Peter’s Catholic Church, 24 Anzac Street, Cambridge on Friday, 19 December at 1.30 pm, followed by private cremation.

COLES, Miriam Ellen (née Park) – Passed away peacefully on Tuesday, 9 December 2025, 90 years young. Dearly loved wife of the late Derek Coles. Much loved daughter of William and Elsie Park (both deceased), and cherished eldest sister of Desmond, Ethne, and Ron, (all deceased). Treasured aunty of the late Russell, Cherie, and Bronny. Deeply loved and adored sister, sister-in-law, aunty, greataunty, and great-greataunty to the extended Park family. Deeply loved and adored sister-in-law, aunty, great-aunty, and greatgreat-aunty to the Coles family. A faithful servant of the Lord; a generous giver with the kindest heart. A friend and mother to all. Home at last with the Lord her Saviour, worshipping at his feet. Forever cherished in our hearts and memories — until we meet again. The service for Miriam has been held. Online donations to www.biblesociety.org.nz or www.stjohn.org.nz would be appreciated. Messages to the Park and Coles Family can be sent c/- Grinter’s Funeral Home, 3 Hallys Lane, Cambridge 3434 or in Miriam’s online tribute book at www.grinters.co.nz

CAMBRIDGE OPEN HOMES CAMBRIDGE REAL ESTATE Sunday 21 December 47 Campbell Street $980,000 9A Keats Terrace $935,000 39 Burns Street $819,000

11.30-12.00pm 12.15-12.45pm 12.15-12.45pm

FUNERAL SERVICES

LJ HOOKER Saturday 20 December 8 Conrad Place

$719,000 10.30-11.00am Contact listing agent prior-visiting as Open Homes times can change.

Emergency Services will have complete right of way at all times during closure.

Carla Turner Owner/Managing Director

Any objections to the proposal must be lodged with Waipā District Council, in writing to events@waipadc.govt.nz, before 4.00pm on Friday, 23 January 2026. Please include the nature of the objection and the grounds for it. See the Privacy Statement on the Council’s website for further information. For more information, please contact Waipā District Council on 0800 924 723.

Steph O’Sullivan CHIEF EXECUTIVE

NOTIFICATION OF DECISION ON PLAN CHANGE 33 TO THE WAIPĀ DISTRICT PLAN – HAUTAPU AREA 7 Public notification pursuant to clause 10(4) of the First Schedule of the Resource Management Act 1991.

2 Albert Street, Cambridge 07 827 7649 www.cambridgefunerals.co.nz

SELL

YOUR HOUSE

In accordance with clause 10(4)(b) of the First Schedule of the Resource Management Act 1991, Waipā District Council gives notice that a decision on Plan Change 33 to the Waipā District Plan - Hautapu Area 7 has been made and is now available.

ASK YOUR LOCAL REAL ESTATE AGENT ABOUT ADVERTISING YOUR PROPERTY IN THE CAMBRIDGE NEWS!

The decision incorporates three Parts being:

Reaching 36,180 local readers evey week.

• Part A - Decision Report • Part B - Decisions on Submissions and Further Submissions by Topic • Part C - Tracked Changes of Amendments to Operative Waipā District Plan

Jordan Goss - Funeral Director

Guiding you with care in your time of need

07 827 6037

3 Hallys Lane, Cambridge www.grinters.co.nz

The full copy of the Council’s decision on Plan Change 33 can be viewed at Waipā District Council Offices and Public Libraries in Te Awamutu and Cambridge, or on the Waipā District Council website at the following link: www.waipadc.govt.nz/planchange33. Any person who has made a submission on Plan Change 33 may appeal decisions on their submission to the Environment Court. Appeals to the Environment Court must be in the prescribed form and lodged with the Environment Court within 30 working days of the date of this public notice, that is by 5pm on Monday 23 February 2026. Under clause 10(5) of the First Schedule to the Resource Management Act 1991 the Waipā District Plan is deemed to have been amended in accordance with the decisions made on Plan Change 33 and in accordance with Section 86B of the Resource Management Act 1991 they have legal effect from the date of this notice. Steph O’Sullivan CHIEF EXECUTIVE For and on behalf of the Waipā District Council

Looking for the right candidate for the job?

ADVERTISE YOUR VACANCY WITH US!

Call Janine on 027 287 0005 or email janine@goodlocal.nz “Local jobs for local people”

O’BRIEN, Nancy Katherine (nee Ryan) – Passed away peacefully at her home in Cambridge, surrounded by her family, on 12th December 2025, aged 97 years. Beloved wife of the late Michael Joseph. Much loved mother of Chris, Claire, John, Katherine, Gerard, Anthony and Anne-Marie. Cherished Nana to her many grandchildren and great grandchildren. Messages to the ‘O’Brien Family’ can be sent c/- Grinter’s Funeral Home, 3 Hallys Lane, Cambridge 3434 or in Nancy’s online tribute book at www.grinters.co.nz. Nancy’s Requiem Mass will be celebrated at St Peter’s Catholic Church, 24 Anzac Street, Cambridge, TODAY, Thursday, 18th December, at 11.00 am, followed by burial at Leamington Cemetery.

Family Notices • Engagements • Weddings • Births • Anniversaries • Bereavements • In Memoriam etc

Call Janine 027 287 0005 e: janine@goodlocal.nz

28 | CAMBRIDGE NEWS

THURSDAY DECEMBER 18, 2025

Bupa St Kilda Retirement Village

$20,000 cashback PLUS free weekly fees for 12 months!* Serviced Apartments Our one and two bedroom serviced apartments offer the freedom of independent living with FREE weekly housekeeping and linen laundry, plus lunch and a light dinner for five days each week (for single occupancy).

Enquiries from $455,000^ Villas Our one and two bedroom villas are warm, light and spacious, and feature a modern kitchen, double glazed windows, heat pump, emergency alarm system, patio and garage.

Enquiries from $605,000^ Contact Megan on 07 280 0798 or visit bupa.co.nz/stkilda for more information. Bupa St Kilda Retirement Village | 91 Alan Livingston Drive, Cambridge *Bupa’s standard application terms and conditions apply. The offer is available to all new prospective residents entering an application for an ORA for a villa or serviced apartment at Bupa St Kilda Retirement Village. Serviced Apartment: No service fees for Serviced Apartment is based single occupancy only. Additional service fees apply for seven day meal service packages and for double occupancy. Promotional period ends 30 January 2026 and full settlement must occur on or before 31 March 2026. Villa: Promotional period ends 31 March 2026 and full settlement must occur on or before 30 June 2026. For full terms and conditions visit bupa.co.nz/promotions. ^Price is for a licence to occupy under an Occupation Right Agreement.