Cambridge News | March 19, 2026

Datsuns drive back

By Jesse Wood

They were Trinket in the mid-1990s at Cambridge High School – but the world got to know them in the early 2000s as The Datsuns.

And a new generation of music fans - 30,000 of them - had the chance to hear them at the Claudelands Arena on Saturday at the Homegrown Festival which featured New Zealand performers.

Trio Dolf de Borst, Christian Livingstone and Phil Somervell are original band members, the drummer today is Scandinavian Adam Lindmark and they are spread across the globe.

Homegrown – whose chief executive is Cambridge’s Andrew Tuck – was the third leg of The Datsuns’ first New Zealand tour since 2018.

The Hamilton event followed shows at Gisborne and Mt Maunganui.

Tokyo-based guitarist Livingstone said the band had been touring Europe but until now “we just haven’t managed to get back down here”.

“Phil still lives in New Zealand, Dolf and Adam live in Sweden and I live in Japan - we’re spread quite far and thin.

“It’s always fun to come back and play in New Zealand. Whenever we get back here - we haven’t been back in quite some time - it’s always nice to get to come back and not only get to play, which I enjoy doing, but I get to see all my friends and family at the same time.”

When the hard rock band formed in 1995 at Cambridge High as Trinket, de Borst was the vocalist and bass guitarist, Matt Osment was on drums and Somervell on guitar.

Livingstone joined in 1997 as their

second guitarist and the following year they became The Datsuns. Another Cambridge High graduate, Ben Cole, would replace Osment on drums.

Members used the band’s name as their last name on stage.

They won the 1998 Battle of the Bands and performed in Hamilton that year, supporting Swedish band the Hellacopters.

In 2002 the first of their seven albums was number one in New Zealand and in the top 20 in the United Kingdom – their next stop.

“When you start a band, you’re just thinking about playing music and enjoying yourself, you’re not thinking you’re going to get to do this for a career and travel the world or anything like that,” Livingstone said.

“I never really thought about anything like that back then. You know, what am I going to be doing 30 years in the future? But it’s great.”

The tour was originally designed to celebrate and highlight their new album – the last was five years agobut it hasn’t come to fruition yet.

“This was supposed to be a tour for a new record but we haven’t quite finished that because we’re terrible at sticking to a deadline. Hopefully, we’ll have that record out later in the year.”

After Homegrown, The Datsuns played a show in Lyttelton on Wednesday, followed by another one tonight before heading to Wellington and Auckland.

“We’re going to be touring Europe later in the year. That’s where we spend most of our time,” Livingstone said.

“Beyond that, it depends on what happens with the album release when we finally manage to get that out.”

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Legacy project fundraiser

By Viv Posselt

An open day at Kids in Need Waikato’s Cambridge base on Sunday is intended to be not only another family-fun event, but also the public launch of the charity’s Legacy Project campaign.

The campaign powered up late last year. It is aimed at securing Kids in Need Waikato’s future by raising an initial $1 million to facilitate the purchase of the Fencourt Rd property it rents from the charity’s founders Graeme and Linda Roil, then another $1 million for its long-term development.

Just five months in, they have raised just over $170,000 and hopes are high that with various fund-raising events planned, including a gala later this year, they will be on their way to future-proofing the charity.

Kids in Need Waikato began in 2014 when the Roils began fostering children in need. They soon started turning community donations into care-packs for children up to the age of 18, and their caregivers, quickly developing into a major enterprise that has grown like topsy across their family property

The Kids in Need Charitable Trust was established in 2018, and it is that body that is leading the Legacy Project as the Roils prepare to step back. The plan is

Car thieves active

Over the past week, Cambridge has had 19 reported incidents of car crime.

Te Awamutu has also experienced car crime, with eight incidents reported. This serves as a reminder not to leave valuables, especially wallets, in your vehicle, and to consider investing in an alarm, immobiliser, or steering lock. While a determined offender may still attempt to enter your car, the more deterrents in place, the less attractive your vehicle becomes as a target.

This increase reflects a rise in youths interfering with and stealing from vehicles and in some cases taking the vehicles themselves. We’re grateful to members of the public who have shared CCTV footage (and other information) as these recordings often provide the strongest evidence allowing us to identify offenders quickly.

Combined with our own resources, we now have solid leads on those responsible, both locally and from outside the area. We are steadily working to hold them accountable.

Earlier this week, a youth was arrested after running from a vehicle into which he had gained entry. He was found with items taken from the car still in his possession and has been referred to Youth Aid. Our investigations continue as we work to identify others involved.

Young people engage in this type of offending for a range of reasons including peer pressure, the desire for approval and social media attention. Disengagement from school or training and simply having too much unstructured time without positive outlets such as team sports may also play a part. At this age, peer influence is particularly strong, so knowing where your teen is and with whom they are spending time is important.

In other matters this week, Counties Manukau Police arrested a man following a family harm incident in Leamington last weekend. He now faces two related charges in court. Additionally, a woman was arrested for shoplifting and was found in possession of an offensive weapon and drugs; she faces multiple charges.

Finally, we continue to receive reports of scam texts claiming to be from police about overdue fines.

Remember, New Zealand police will never contact you by text about fines. If you are ever uncertain about the validity of a text or email, err on the side of caution. Contact the organisation directly by alternative means and confirm any communication sent to you.

It is a good idea not to click on hyperlinks sent in a text or email unless you are 100 per cent sure of their authenticity.

the charity by buying the property from the Roils, thereby enabling an expansion of services and unlocking access to grants and funding possibilities not available to renters.

The charity has grown to support more than 560 caregivers and 1300 children in the Waikato each year, and an average 168 carepacks go out monthly.

Sunday’s Open Day at the property will enable people to look behind the scenes, meet the team, see the facilities and what they do, and enjoy a family day out at the same time.

The Open Day will showcase various ways in which people can get behind the Legacy Project. These will include painting rocks, buying into one of five park benches or purchasing bricks.

Minister talks

Health Minister Simeon Brown will give a public talk tonight to the Cambridge Prostate Cancer Support Group at Cambridge Primary School. A representative of Waikato Urology will join the minister in speaking to what the coalition government is doing to tackle the rising incidence of prostate cancer in New Zealand. At current levels, one man in eight will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2026. Support group co-ordinator Ron Greenwood said information for men and their families will be available during the evening.

Marathon date

A Cambridge Community House fundraiser, the Marathon Row, returns to town later this month. The event is the house’s biggest fundraiser and last year’s 20 rowing ergs, two ski ergs, two stationary bikes and around 150 participants at a single venue raised around $6000 from local businesses.

Appeal lodged

A $2.5 million damages claim against Waipā District Council for negligence has been dismissed by the High Court but it is now subject to appeal, the council’s Risk and Assurance committee heard on Monday. A second negligence claim for an unquantified amount in relation to the way council exercised its building control functions on a district dwelling is still before the court.

Information sought

Waipā staff have processed 1083 Local Government and Official Information Act requests in the seven months since the start of the current financial year on July 1.

Five stars

Cambridge boutique hotel The Clements has been awarded a Qualmark Gold sustainable tourism business award and a five star rating on its first evaluation. The boutique hotel opened in August 2025

Home programme success

A housing programme that has helped Waipā families into their first homes is nearing capacity and just one home remains available.

Cambridge based Bridge Housing Charitable Trust says following strong demand for its leasehold affordable housing programme the initiative is now nearly fully subscribed - 34 families are in homes across Waipā. The programme enables eligible first-home buyers to purchase a two-bedroom home for just over $300,000 – significantly below

typical market prices — by separating the cost of the home from the land through a long-term leasehold structure.

Bridge Housing, an initiative started by the Brian Perry Charitable Trust, opened in Peake Road, Cambridge in Decemebr 2023 with $4 million pumped into it by the trust.

Bridge Housing General Manager Jen Palmer says the model has been a game changer for families who thought home ownership was out of reach.

“Many of the families

in this programme never imagined they could own a home in today’s market,” Palmer says.

“By removing the upfront land cost, we’ve been able to create a pathway where hardworking local families can secure a stable home and start building equity for the future.”

The programme has also delivered results in Queenstown, where housing affordability challenges are among the most severe in the country.

“We’ve seen first-hand how transformational this

can be,” Palmer says. “It’s not just about housing. It’s about stability for children, connection to community, and the confidence that comes from having a place to call your own.”

The initiative was supported through the previous Government’s Progressive Home Ownership programme, which provided funding to not-for-profit housing developers to develop affordable pathways into ownership.

However, Palmer says the funding programme has

not been renewed, and as a result opportunities like this are limited.

She says the strong response demonstrates the scale of demand for alternative pathways into home ownership.

“There are many families doing everything right – working hard, saving where they can – but the traditional housing market simply isn’t accessible to them. This programme shows that with the right support and structure, home ownership can still be within reach.”

Museum next stop for church

By Chris Gardner

Roger Dean’s 1:24 model of St Andrew’s Church in Cambridge will soon have a new home.

The model, which has had several homes in the nine years since it was completed in 2017, will take pride of place in C&R Construction’s museum in Hautapu.

Dean moved the model to his garage last year after a revamp at Metlifecare St Andrew’s Moxon Centre where it sat in a glass case. He then sought help from Cambridge Community Board to

find a new home for it.

Board member Chris Minneé

shoulder tapped C&R Construction project manager Nick Ross to see if he could help.

“I arranged to take Roger to the museum and show him where it would be shown, and at the same

time to meet Mike,” Minneé said.

“This has taken place and Roger is very happy with the model going to the museum.

“Currently the upstairs portion of the museum is being developed, and once the allocated space is cleared, we will locate the model to its spot.

This is still a project to complete.”

Originally from Gillingham in Dorset in the UK, Dean spent 14 years working on the model using 680 photographs as a reference.

“I think it will be a good place for it,” Dean said. “I am happy with where it is going to go.”

Concerns raised

Cambridge residents are expected to voice their views on a proposal to develop 98.6 hectares of land on the southeastern side of Leamington. The land is bordered by the greenbelt to the west, rural-zoned land to the east, the Waikato River to the north and Maungatautari Road to the south. Most is used for equine and grazing purposes.

Cambridge Community Board this week encouraged residents to continue engaging with it about how a development of this scale can be supported within the current infrastructure.

Body identified

Police have confirmed the remains of a person found off State Highway 3 between Te Awamutu and Ōtorohanga earlier this month were those of Colin Heath, a 47-year-old last seen in Te Kūiti in 2022. The death has been referred to the coroner and police say Heath’s family have asked for privacy.

Water deal

Waikato District Council has signed the transfer agreement that establishes a publicly owned water company formed with Hamilton City Council and in partnership with Waikato-Tainui, to deliver water and wastewater services to more than 220,000 residents across the councils. The entity will be known as Iawai.

New bridge will be better

By Chris Gardner

A new bridge spanning Mangati Stream will be designed to withstand a second one in 250-year severe weather event.

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New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) Waka Kotahi plans to open a temporary one-lane prefabricated Acrow steel bridge on State Highway 39 south of Pirongia tomorrow, (Friday).

It is a stopgap measure while the old bridge – a victim of last month’s storms - is replaced with something taller and stronger than what went before.

NZTA area manager Andy Oakley hoped construction of the new permanent bridge might begin before the end of winter.

Gibbons

“It’s hard to know how long it will be before we have the design in place,” he said. “The amount of water we had was significant and the new design will need to cater for that.”

The installation of the temporary bridge had cost NZTA’s emergency response fund $1.6 million to date.

It’s five weeks since a Valentine’s Day flood cascaded down the maunga, took out the bridge, and diverted income out of the township.

Tomorrow, the first of about 4200 vehicles should be able to cross the bridge after five weeks of intensive work on the site.

Work has been ongoing seven days a week to get the new bridge in. “All the resources that has been reasonable to thrown

at it has been thrown at it,” Oakley said.

This week Fulton Hogan construction divisional manager Gordon Inglis said workers were completing the approaches to the new bridge.

Meanwhile several tracks in Pirongia Forest Park have reopened in the wake of

February storm significantly damaged the network across the maunga. Damage included slips and downed trees.

Floodwaters destroyed some bridges and steps.

Conservation Department Waikato Operations Manager Niwha Jones says staff have completed initial

assessments on all tracks across the park, and several have now reopened.

“The popular Nikau Walk and Loop has reopened –however, visitors should be aware there are contractors working on repairs and there may be pedestrian management in place to ensure visitor safety while machinery is used,” Niwha said.

The Pahautea Hut and campsite has reopened for booking – but visitor access is now from Waite Rd and only via Ruapane and Tirohanga tracks.

Visitors naturing in that part of the forest park should return via the Tirohanga and Ruapane tracks to Waite Rd.

DOC will plan for repairs to Tahuanui Track.

“The Mangakara Nature Walk will remain closed for some time, due to the destruction of two bridges. We will need to plan and budget for replacements.”

The Bell Track and Mahaukura Track were significantly damaged by slips and will require further assessment before any decisions are made.

The Hihikiwi Track remains unavailable due to the closures of surrounding public roads.

A Fresh Reason to Smile in Cambridge

There’s something about Cambridge that makes people want to stay. Maybe it’s the friendly wave of a neighbour, the rhythm of small-town life, or the sense of belonging that comes from knowing your community cares.

For Registered Dental Hygienist Tricia Enriquez-Gault, proud member of the new Alpers Dental Cambridge team, that feeling is exactly what turned a working OE nearly twenty years ago into a decision to make New Zealand home.

Now, as a wife, mother of three teenage boys, and passionate dental professional, Tricia is helping introduce a new chapter in local healthcare: a modern, family-focused dental practice designed around comfort, trust, and longterm wellbeing. Alpers Dental Cambridge has opened its doors at 1902 Cambridge Road with a simple promise — to care for your family just as they would their own. The practice brings a fresh approach to dentistry — one centred on people, not just procedures. “We wanted to create a welcoming space where patients feel comfortable from the moment they walk in,” says Tricia. “Dentistry isn’t only about fixing teeth — it’s about supporting overall health and helping you maintain a smile that lasts a lifetime.” With a full range of services for the whole family, including preventative dentistry, hygiene, restorative treatments, cosmetic dentistry, prosthesis, and orthodontic options such as Invisalign and fixed braces for both children and adults. The team also has a strong interest in airwayfocused orthodontics, supporting healthy breathing and jaw development in growing children, reflecting an approach that looks beyond straight teeth to overall health. Behind this vision is a team of experienced practice partners. Co-owner Dr Nic Anderson brings a mission-driven

approach to orthodontics, shaped by his own experience as a patient, with a focus on achieving healthy, straight teeth while protecting and enhancing the airway rather than compromising it. Nic’s goal is simple but powerful: to help children and adults enjoy confidently aligned smiles and become functional nose breathers, supporting better sleep, energy, and lifelong wellbeing. Alongside him, wife Jacqui helps shape the family-owned ethos of Alpers Dental, ensuring the practice culture stays grounded in genuine care, clear communication, and community values.

Joining them in Cambridge is Dr Bernard McGraw, a California-trained dentist with more than two decades of experience in comprehensive family care, from crowns and bridges to veneers, root canals, implants, and clear retainer orthodontics. After years leading practices in the United States, Bernard and his family have chosen New Zealand as home, bringing with them a broad skill set and a calm, personable style that fits naturally with Cambridge’s community spirit.

Together, this team believes dentistry should be about more than fixing problems when they arise. It’s about prevention, education, and helping patients maintain healthy smiles for life in an environment where they feel heard, not rushed. To learn more or book an appointment, visit www.alpersdentalcambridge.co.nz or call the friendly team on 07 222 3498.

With Alpers Dental Cambridge now open at 1902 Cambridge Road, there’s never been a better time to start smiling.

Hunting in our back yard

It’s a great time to go bush, but being prepared ahead of the roar can avert tragedy, as Jon Rawlinson discovered.

Dom Fortis can often be seen stalking in the Pureora Forest.

Although he’ll avoid being seen as much as possible by wildlife, visibility among hunters is vital.

“Wear bright colours and clearly identify targets,” he says. “During the roar, there are more people out there with less experience than usual, so the noise you hear could be from another hunter.”

The mating season for deer, the roar runs from late March until April depending on species. Stags make low, guttural sounds while calling out for a mate.

An NZ Deerstalkers Association (Te Awamutu) member, Ōtorohanga based Fortis tends to hunt practically in his own backyard, the Pureora Forest.

Some aim for trophies but his primary intention is to make a meal of it.

“It’s nice to get antlers, for example, if only for a competition, but I’m mostly a meat hunter,” he says. “There are lots of ways to cook venison and if I can fill up some freezers for family and friends, that’s a good deal.”

The Department of Conservation’s Pureora Hunting Competition which runs to April 26 provides added incentives to bag a stag.

Running for more than 30 years, the contest is focused on red deer but it also includes categories for other species.

This year, junior hunters will win prizes for mustelids (ferrets, stoats and weasels) as well as goats and rats. The competition helps keep the populations of these pest species in check.

“Shooting for sport is a form of pest control,” Fortis says.

“There are areas in Pureora Forest that are heavily populated with deer and other pests, so hunters are actually doing the forest a favour.”

He knows about the importance of pest control in protecting native wildlife. This former head bird and reptile keeper at Ōtorohanga Kiwi House now looks after parks and reserves for Ōtorohanga District Council.

Although he’s been hunting for much longer, Fortis is a relatively new member of the NZ Deerstalkers Association – he joined both to learn and teach.

“I’ve only been a member for a couple of years, mostly to further my own knowledge and share my knowledge with new hunters. It’s an organisation that could always do with more support.”

His dad was a hunter, but he credits a friend’s father with

showing him the ropes.

“Mostly, it was a mate’s father, a wild bushman type who taught us both how to hunt. I still hunt with his son (who’s my best mate) quite often.”

Dom’s son, Grayson is also honing his hunting skills with help from his dad.

Whenever firearms are involved, knowledge can make the difference between life and death, and survival skills are vital when out in the bush.

“Going into the roar, firearm safety is essential, fitness is important and novice hunters should always be with someone with experience,” Dom Fortis says. “That’s where the NZDA comes into its own – sometimes, you can join groups through them and they have some special hunts.”

In addition, membership unlocks discounts for all sorts of equipment.

Aside from acquiring trophies, prizes and a feast for the family, the roar presents the perfect opportunity to simply enjoy our great outdoors, he says.

“The bush is such an interesting place because it’s full of all sorts of wildlife and Pureora Forest is one of the best places to be for that – it’s home to some pretty rare native species.”

Autumn fest gets the blues

By Viv Posselt

The Darcy Perry Blues Band is set to be one of the entertainment highlights for Autumn Festival revellers at Sunday’s Main Street Carnival.

It’s some time since the band has played this festival, making their hour-long appearance particularly special as 2026 marks the 20th anniversary of their album Heavy Rain. The original was released in July 2006, consisting of 12 original tracks highlighting the band’s penchant for electric blues, the crowd-pleasing musical genre that went on to win them positive reviews.

Their appearance at last year’s Whangaparaoa Blues Festival also drew high praise.

Darcy Perry entered the New Zealand blues scene in the early 1990s. He released his debut album Blues 4 Dad a decade later, dedicated to his father Ross Perry who had died of cancer in 2002, and on the back of good album reviews he formed the band.

The band went on to perform widely,

appearing in gigs, festivals and on television and earning a few awards along the way.

Speaking to The News last week, Perry said they have all pretty much done their own thing for the past few years. “It’s a rare thing for us to all get together like this.”

Perry’s ‘own thing’ includes working in Cambridge, living in Tamahere and looking to buy a house here. He’s

enjoyed being actively involved in raising his kids… and there is an unexpected nod to his dad.

“I’ve been teaching technology at Cambridge High School for the past year… dad was also a technology teacher,” he said.

“I’m from a family of teachers, but it’s not something I thought I would ever do. I’m really enjoying it.”

He finds the creativity of it, the ‘making things work’ side of technology, a good fit for him.

He is also an ardent supporter of the school’s jazz band – who are set to play just before Perry’s band during the street carnival – and has recently lent his dad’s trumpet to them. “I just don’t have the time to play it.”

The band will play at the Victoria Street stage from 11.45am.

Rocky horror delights await

By Viv Posselt

Rocky Horror aficionados are building a head of steam for next weekend’s Cambridge screening of the cult classic.

The March 28 screening organised by committee member Karen Johnson at Tivoli Theatre is being run as part of this year’s Cambridge Autumn Festival.

Fans are expected to book out all three cinemas showing the movie, with many likely to vie for a 10-ticket movie pass donated by Tivoli Cinema for the best dressed costume of the night, and prizes in a Rocky Horror cake competition.

The Autumn Festival inclusion of Richard O’Brien’s musical parody of both science fiction and B-grade horror movies was decided on to dovetail with the movie’s 50th anniversary which is being celebrated around the world.

Johnson said the original movie ‘took the world by storm, and 50 years on it still draws a spirited crowd’.

She’s anticipating a crowd that ‘shivers with anticipation’.

THE DENTURE MAN

Top achievers celebrated

By Steph Bell-Jenkins

Hanwen Xu was in year 10 at Cambridge High School in 2025 when he took NCEA Level 3 calculus – a course designed for year 13 students.

He placed in the top three per cent of students nationwide and winning a New Zealand Scholarship award.

“I guess I’m just interested in

maths,” he said. “I taught myself maths Level 1 and 2 in middle school.”

Xu, who moved to the Waikato from China three years ago with his parents, is taking a mathematics course through the University of Canterbury alongside his NCEA subjects.

He aims to study “something computer related at university”, and plans to enrol in a computer

science paper at the University of Waikato later this year.

The 15-year-old was one of dozens of students recognised at Cambridge High School earlier this month at an assembly celebrating last year’s top scholars and 2026 school leaders.

Principal Greg Thorton said students had won 13 scholarships in 2025 across a range of subjects – an improvement on the previous

Waste Minimisation Community Fund

It could be an idea that: Do you have an idea or community project that means less rubbish will go to landfill?

Waipā District Council has $50,000 to allocate from the Ministry for the Environment's waste levy. redesigns a product or system reduces rubbish for your school or marae replaces single-use items with reusables turns waste into a new resource educates the community about waste minimisation.

year.

Most of those came from year 13 students – Hannah Goodwin (English), Emily McIntyre (French), Paola Velasco-Bazaldua (Spanish), Harriet Drake and Bronwyn ReesJones (biology), Cameron Diprose (music), Emily Drake (classics) and Kimiora Wynyard (Te Ao Haka).

Two students in year 12 last year also achieved the feat.

Hunter Davis won scholarships in calculus, physics and music, and received a Summa Cum Laude award for achieving excellence endorsements in NCEA Level 1, 2 and 3.

Thornton said he could only recall one other student – 2023 dux Anna Jago – claiming that honour.

“It’s quite unusual for a year 12 student to have three excellence endorsements,” he said.

Now in year 13, Davis is taking Maths 199 at the University of Auckland, a course designed for students in their last year of high school.

“It’s quite cool because they show some different areas of maths like cryptography and graph modelling,” he said.

A talented guitar player, Davis is also a member of the Cambridge High School Jazz Band and Big Band, the National Youth Big Band, and the Aotearoa Jazz Combo.

“I definitely want to study maths and music after school at university – maybe a Bachelor of Science majoring in maths and a

Bachelor of Music majoring in jazz performance,” the 17-year-old said.

“I think I’d really enjoy something in the research area of university.”

He said winning the scholarships had taken “a lot of hard work”.

Max Frith, 17, won a New Zealand Scholarship award in chemistry.

“I was hoping for it because I’d devoted quite a bit of time to chemistry and it’s one of my strongest subjects,” he said.

“It’s by far one of the most significant things I’ve achieved at school. To say I’m proud is selling it short.”

Cambridge High School students who achieved the highest number of excellence credits in 2025 were Flynn Jenkins, Siddarth Manuvimal, Sophia Manipol, Anna Crouchman and Vivien Pettit.

NCEA excellence endorsements went to 28 Level 1 students and 13 Level 2 students.

Twenty-two students received Cum Laude awards for two excellence endorsements –Georgia Bertrand, Erin Bouwer, Jake Brugh, Anna Crouchman, Marinell Ferreira, Max Frith, Ethan Harvey, Myleigh Johnson, Aden Joseph, Laqueisha Lim, Laila MacDonald, Liam McGregor, Carter Milne, Isabella Penwarden, Ayla Petch, Vivien Pettit, Isla Read, Sophie Risi, Erin Silcock, Blake Williams, Georgia Wynne and Asalie Yiu.

Pop in to talk through your ideas or get some help with the application form.

Wednesday, April 8 10am–12pm

Waipā District Council Cambridge office, 23 Wilson Street 1–3pm

Waipā District Council Te Awamutu office, 101 Bank Street

You can also book a phone or Zoom meeting with our Waste Minimisation team by calling 0800 924 723 or emailing wastefund@waipadc.govt.nz

Thursday, March 19, 2026

Reconnecting, rebuilding, recovering: Waipā’s road ahead

It ’s hard to believe it ’s already been a month since that storm tore through areas of our district Like many of you, I still think back to those first few days the slips on the hillsides, roads, culverts, bridges cut away, and the sense of uncertainty that hung over everything A lot has happened since then, and while we’ve made real progress, recovery is something we’ll be working through together for some time yet, along with many impacted in the rural sector

One of the turning points has been the announcement of the temporary bridge on State Highway 39 When the Mangati Bridge was destroyed, it cut more than a route it cut a daily connection that so many people in and around Pirongia rely on Hearing that a 40‐metre temporary steel bridge will be in place by mid‐March has been a real lift for the community Crews have already cleared debris and built up the approaches, and once the bridge components arrive, it should go up in just a few days It won’t solve everything, but it ’s a big step toward getting people and businesses moving again

During a recent visit to Pirongia, I stopped in at the local Four Square and had a good conversation with the duty manager about those early days and the challenges ahead Hearing this firsthand really reinforced how deeply the event affected people on the ground

Water has also been a major pressure point Damage at the Te Tahi Water Treatment Plant left Pirongia vulnerable, and while the new backup connection at Frontier Road has stabilised supply, we still need to assess what is needed long‐term to strengthen our wider network

Our outdoor spaces have taken a hit too Pirongia Forest, Sainsbury Road Reserve and Kakepuku Mountain Track remain closed due to unsafe ground conditions, slips and debris Drone flyovers and geotechnical assessments are underway, and while reopening these well‐loved places will take time, it remains a clear priority

Support for those doing it toughest continues to grow The Mayoral Relief Fund has received an additional $100,000 from central government and $13,000 from local trusts and organisations, helping more people access the support they need

What stays with me most is how people across Waipā have shown up for one another Staff, contractors, volunteers, local businesses and neighbours have all played a part in helping the district back onto its feet Recovery isn’t quick, and there’s still plenty to do, but we’re moving forward together

Mayor Mike Pettit

Your Elected Members

Waipā

Mayoral Relief Fund open to support storm-affected residents

The Waipā Mayoral Relief Fund has been established to support people, families and organisations affected by the severe weather and flooding that impacted parts of the district in February

The fund has been set up to provide financial assistance to individuals, whānau, small businesses, community organisations, volunteer groups and marae experiencing hardship as a result of the event

In addition to the $100,000 start up funding from Waipā District Council and the matching support from Government, there has been over $13,000 donated to the fund with almost $45,000 already allocated to help those in need

The fund is intended to provide short-term support where people have urgent needs that may not be covered by insurance or other forms of assistance In many cases, it can help with immediate recovery costs such as essential household items, clean-up costs, or other urgent expenses linked to the storm event

Who can apply

Applications are open to:

Individuals and families affected by the severe weather event

Small businesses experiencing hardship as a result of the event

Community organisations, volunteer groups and marae supporting recovery efforts

How to apply

People who have been impacted and require assistance can apply by completing the Mayoral Relief Fund application form available on our website

Because funds are limited, applications will be assessed against the fund’s criteria and support will be prioritised for those experiencing the greatest need

For more information about eligibility or to apply, visit waipadc govt nz/relief-fund or contact us on 0800 924 723

Awards for Karāpiro Perfect package for St John

Hamilton and its surrounding communities have a newly donated emergency ambulance at the ready, donated by Karāpirobased Whitehall Fruitpackers.

The kiwifruit production and post-harvest operation was the site for the new ambulance’s recent handover. It was attended by Hato Hone St John dignitaries and emergency ambulance staff, local iwi representatives and the Whitehall Fruitpackers team.

The company’s co-founders, Mark and Robyn Gardiner, handed the keys over to Steve Evans, Grand Cross of the Order of St John.

The Gardiners said they were extending their charitable activities, with a focus on benefitting human

wellbeing through their support of local organisations. They said supporting the work of St John was a ‘great fit with our charitable side’ and said they were proud to have contributed to the delivery of the new ambulance.

The new Generation 4 vehicle is the newest model, with improved safety and driving capabilities. It is fitted with equipment that includes a power-load electric stretcher and stair carry chair, making it easier and safer for frontline personnel to move patients in and out of the ambulance.

“Our workload in the Waikato has been rising every year,” St John area operations manager for Hamilton Adrian Gavin said. We’ve seen a 15 per cent increase

Open Day

in callouts since 2020, so donations of this size are much appreciated by our crews, and important to ensuring they have modern equipment to carry out their work and provide our patients with the best care,” he said.

“Hamilton is also one of our busiest response areas in the country, which highlights just how valuable this new ambulance is.”

The event was opened by St John donor relationship specialist and Order of St John, Gunner Lovich, and the dedication of the vehicle was led by Rev Stephen Black, youth pastor Aaron Hodgson, and Māori teacher Luke Goodwin.

The new ambulance will replace an older vehicle and will be stationed at Hamilton.

Pupils from Karāpiro School were winners in a competition run by the Aggregate and Quarry Association which represents most of the nation’s 1000-plus quarries.

The Rock our Future 2025 competition asked students to demonstrate the lifecycle of a quarry. A visit to Winstone Aggregates’ Whitehall Quarry helped in putting together their entries.

Two sets of pupils from Year 6 at Karāpiro School won awards.

Levi Hughes, Eli Johnson and Aria MacCallaugh presented a movie and Ronya Epp and Alice Daly a video and model. Each of the Karāpiro students received a $100 prezzy card and the school $2000 for the two winning entries.

Schools in Waiuku and Queenstown also won prizes.

Aggregate and Quarry Association chief Wayne Scott, who judged the competition, visited the school to award prizes.

He said the quarry industry was delighted to see continued interest in the competition which has now been running for eight years.

“Children get the opportunity to visit a local quarry and learn about the importance of aggregates to their community and the excellent environmental work we do to mitigate our impacts and return the site to the community for other uses,” he said

The Rock our Future 2026 competition will be launched in Term Two.

Tuesday 24th March 10am-2pm

Join us for a Village Talk at 11am, explore the nature reserve, learn about options for future care, and chat with residents to hear first-hand about the lifestyle you can look forward to.

Old friends in a new village

By Mary Anne Gill

The first clue was familiar, so familiar that recognition was instant.

When Pauline Chamberlain (née Roberts), 86, moved into Summerset Cambridge last week – soon to be joined by husband Ken - she spotted a face she hadn’t seen in more than 70 years.

Russell Wiseman, 85, who moved to Summerset with his late wife Margaret nearly three years ago, was that familiar face.

Russell and Pauline were once schoolmates at Goodwood Primary School, the country school at Fencourt north of Cambridge.

After decades apart, they recognised each other straight away.

Their story unfolded the same week Summerset officially opened the new village centre at Summerset Cambridge - an event the operator says marks a milestone for the growing Waikato community and its long-

term investment in the region.

At the heart of the village, the new threelevel, 10,000-square-metre building brings care, lifestyle and community spaces together under one roof, including 60 serviced apartments, 36 care suites and 20 memory care suites.

It’s also built for everyday connection.

Residents now have shared spaces including a café, bar, lounges, library, pool, spa, gym, movie theatre, conservatory and an outdoor kitchen with pizza oven.

For Lucy Lloyd-Barker, the village manager, the opening is as much about moments like coffee catchups as it is about bricks and mortar.

“Our residents have been extremely excited to see their new building take shape,” she said.

“They’re really looking forward to using their new pool, library and having coffee dates at the café.”

The village’s first resident, Ann Claridge, cut a cake to celebrate and chief executive Scott Scoullar and Lloyd-Barker unveiled the plaque.

Summerset describes the centre as a significant $85 million investment in community, care and local employment, and says construction supported hundreds of contractors and trades while the village grows a local workforce across care, hospitality and village services.

Scoullar said a village centre is more than just a building.

“It’s the social and community heart of the village. At Cambridge, it represents years of planning, construction and collaboration, and our ongoing commitment to investing in communities where people can truly feel at home,” he said.

In an interview with The News, Scoullar spoke about the way village life can change the rhythm of retirement, especially for people who have been “rattling around” in large family homes.

As residents find activities and neighbours close by, many tell him they “should have

come… five to 10 years earlier.”

The Cambridge centre also reflects newer building approaches. Summerset used crosslaminated timber and lightweight systems designed for long-term performance and efficiency.

Scoullar described the structure in plain terms: remove the outer layer and “pretty much everything… is wood with hardly any steel in this building.”

Summerset Cambridge opened in 2023 and is planned to have 260 independent homes alongside serviced apartments and a range of care options as the village completes its staged build.

And for residents like Pauline and Russell, the newest spaces - library corners, café tables and lounge chairs aren’t just facilities. They’re where decades can collapse into a single hello, and shared memories of their headmistress, Mrs Duckering, and teacher Claire Wallis, who lived on Hamilton Road.

The journey of sand

By Janine Krippner

We love our beaches. Some of us love our sandy seaside, while others prefer our rockier beaches, covered in pebbles or stones.

Each one of these grains or rocks has an individual history, shaped by its geologic origin and moving water. The composition of an individual beach results from how energetic the waves are at that location, and where the sand or rocks come from. Some are carried from far inland by rivers, others erode along the coastline itself.

Sand primarily results from shells, rock, or coral breaking down into smaller pieces.

The rocks are made up of minerals, some too small to see without a microscope and others larger, like within a granite. Some rocks are a mixture of both, like many volcanic rocks.

Over thousands, or even millions of years, those rocks break down from a mixture of physical and chemical weathering processes. Tougher, more stable minerals like quartz and feldspar can survive this process, while softer minerals are broken down and removed from the mixture.

A high proportion of quartz and feldspars can result in our white beaches. One way we get these minerals on a beach is from the erosion of granite, which begins as a large magma reservoir that cooled slowly below the surface, then is eventually uplifted and the other rock around it is worn away. What a journey.

The presence of iron oxide in these minerals can lead to our golden sandy beaches, and tropical regions can have much more shelly material. When white sand grains are smaller they can reflect more light, so, a fine-grained sandy beach can appear whiter.

Our west coast black sand beaches are a bit special, in my biased volcanologist opinion. The titanomagnetite minerals, a mix of titanium and iron, come from volcanic rocks down in the Taranaki region. We can also see these black sand beaches in other volcanic regions, like Hawai’i, the Canary Islands, and Iceland. There are even rare green sand beaches, where olivine minerals erode out from basalt lavas.

Globally, beaches are changing along with the climate. Stronger storms and a higher sea level can carry the sand away. Humans can also make a huge difference. Building rapidly in some areas can make the ground itself subside, making sea level change much more impactful.

We even have some beaches where we import sand so that we can enjoy it. This happens at Oriental Parade in Wellington, where around 1900 cubic metres of sand is trucked in annually.

Building structures like seawalls or groynes can change the energy dynamics of a coastline, resulting in significant erosion. There are plenty of cases where these are meant to save a beach from erosion and end up making it far worse. It is important to understand the environmental systems before we make changes.

All of this together, the source of the sand, the journey it took, wave action, and our own human interference shape our beaches. The sand composition of each one is like an individual fingerprint.

A fleeting moment in time that we get to enjoy and protect.

When: Sat 21 March, 10am-2pm at Resthaven Village Centre

An olive-like life…

By Murray Smith, Bridges Church

In recent weeks a gardening challenge has been on my mind. It began when I was kindly being gifted a lovely olive tree that had been growing in a terra-cotta pot.

Placed on lawn at the fringes of a pretty garden, this potted tree over years had grown to the point of splitting its container and bursting out of it. The tree’s roots eagerly advanced without confinement, infiltrating surrounding soil, slowly thrusting aside broken pieces of pottery. Strong roots well and truly established the olive tree. However, being crowded amidst other plantings, thriving there was limited.

Accordingly, I embarked on researching necessary steps for successfully transplanting and re-establishing a mature olive tree. Although known for being hardy, there’s no guarantee that a casual approach will ensure a good result.

Pre-watering led to digging around the perimeter, severing several large roots while carefully ensuring a healthy root ball remained - then pruning back foliage, ready for a digger to ‘scoop’ the tree from where it had made its home. It’s now re-located and I’m trying to carefully attend to “Oliver’s” welfare and looking beyond the crinkly-brown foliage - evidence I was pre-warned about, of the tree ‘sulking’ a bit while it ‘acclimatises.’

Meanwhile I wait… and pray.

Olive trees are remarkable, having enhanced the lives of the ancients (oil, fruit, wood) over centuries and there’s rich symbolism attached to them. I’ve enjoyed seeing olives growing throughout Europe, the Middle East and a special place called the ‘Mount of Olives’ in East Jerusalem.

Here lies the Garden of Gethsemane, famous for being where Jesus was betrayed by Judas,

leading to His arrest and subsequent crucifixion on a Roman cross. As Easter, the time of the Passover, approaches, these events come into keen focus. In this spot there are numerous very old olive trees. They are known for their gnarled, twisted trunks and studies date many at around 1000 years old. Despite their age they continue to produce fruit. Claims that some exceed twice that age may have substance, as tests suggest they are descendants of much older root systems.

It’s interesting that in various ways the Bible likens olive trees to people - actually in too many ways to mention in this space. Metaphorically, olive trees flourishing is equated with promises and blessing upon the earth from heaven. In Psalm 52:8, King David declared, “I am like a green olive tree in the house of God; I trust in the steadfast love of God forever.” The olive tree, with its lifegiving roots and evergreen leaves, is a symbol of endurance, peace, covenant blessing, and fruitfulness.

The following graphic Biblical quote describes how not everyone chooses an ‘olivelike’ life…“Anyone putting their trust in human resources, drifting away from God, ends up without His help - like a stunted shrub in the desert, without hope for the future; living in a barren wilderness, good times pass them by. But people trusting and putting their confidence and hope in the Lord, are blessed like a tree planted along a riverbank, with well-watered roots —trees not bothered by heat or months of drought with leaves staying green, they go on producing good fruit.” (Jeremiah 17:5-8) An ‘olive-like’ life..? That’s something we must choose.

A delightful one-hour concert experience taking you on a musical adventure!

When: Sat 28 March, 10am-11am at Cambridge Town Hall ENTRY: $10

A family and beginner-friendly day of tabletop role-playing games!

When: Sat 28 March, 10am-1pm and 2pm-5pm at St Andrew’s Church Hall ENTRY: $5 at the door

Sun 22 March, 10am-2pm downtown Cambridge

workshops, Carnival Day, and more. www.cambridgeautumnfestival.co.nz

Telling it strait

Ten days ago, the majority of this country’s residents had not heard about a narrow historical waterway known as the Straits of Hormuz. And why should they? How many Gulf states people know about the Cook Strait?

My education for the Arabic waterway was both hot and eyeopening just four months after my 17th birthday. I was a very new apprentice on an oil tanker arriving to load heavy, thick crude oil to satisfy the energyhungry refineries of north-west Europe.

While Iran is very much front and centre of the current daily news it would be pertinent to remember that serious amounts of that black gold were first discovered in 1908 in (then) Persia. The forerunner of the (later) Iran. The partly Australian geologist investor William Knox D’Arcy was the key initiator of this source of manufacturing wealth in the days when Persia was a kingdom. All that changed in 1951 under the direction of a driven political leader named Mohammad Mosaddegh It was further changed in 1979 when Islamic fundamentalism of the Shia variety took hold of this hugely

AGE OF REASON

By Peter Carr

historical land. Interestingly, the huge international BP Group was founded through the Iran explorations.

My daughter, traveling through Iran on a truck (true) in 1994, found the greater majority of the Iranian people to be peaceable, friendly and generous. Not crazy nor driven by Zionist v Islamic ideals harking back to biblical foundations. And those who believe that Mr Trump is on a newage campaign should read up about American Baptist and Zionist beliefs on the Iran area going back many years.

That this narrow waterway between Oman and Iran is the bottleneck that oversees 20 per cent of the world’s crude oil pass by is a tragedy in itself. But it also witnesses the transit of huge amounts of ship-carried gas from, mainly, Qatar. And, thanks to appalling oversight by a recent government, New Zealand is becoming gas hungry.

Back to the Straits, bounded on both sides by stark, dry headlands where summer temperatures well exceed 40 degrees. Due to shallow water draft constraints, the deeply laden southbound tankers have to stick to the

Experienced professionals. Local specialists. Quality advice.

Cambridge | 07 827 5147

Hamilton | 07 848 1222 www.lewislawyers.co.nz

Experienced professionals. Local specialists. Quality advice.

Experienced professionals. Local specialists. Quality advice.

Cambridge | 07 827 5147

Cambridge | 07 827 5147

Hamilton | 07 848 1222 www.lewislawyers.co.nz

Hamilton | 07 848 1222 www.lewislawyers.co.nz

centre of the 30km wide passage. It is a natural pinch point for fundamentally driven trigger-happy believers to run amok. Interestingly, the greater users of the majority of that oil are the industrial and hugely populated India, China and Japan. It’s the perfect ‚gotcha’ situation.

Looking ahead - and generally bereft of Mr Darcy and his ilk - there will naturally be a huge move to find harder-to-extract oil at a higher cost elsewhere in the world. The move towards electric and hybrid cars is a partial solution however the marked downturn in pure electric cars is alarming. Just this week Honda announced the withdrawal of three new proposed electric cars in favour of pure hybrids.

The world is changing with or without Mr T, who is having trouble explaining to even his own people, starved for health benefits, why it is necessary to spend US $1billon a day pounding away at the birthplace of crude oil.

Gary Tricker, NZ, Literary Cats, Aquatint etching, signed, numbered 27/50, dated 04

Jules Duffart, French, 1924- French Town View, Oil on Board, Signed

“Deserted”, Sick French Soldier on his starving horse in a desert landscape after Bonaparte’s desertion of his army in Egypt in 1799. Small oil on board, 19th C, Conservation framing.

CAMBRIDGE HEAT PUMP SPECIALISTS

CAMBRIDGE HEAT PUMP SPECIALISTS

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

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This Sunday 22 March 10am-2pm

Victoria Street, Empire Street, Victoria Square & Town Hall

Get ready for the colour, fun, and excitement of our iconic Carnival Day and Autumn Art Market. With over 200 performers and 60 art stalls, there’s something happening around every corner.

Live Music

We’re thrilled to have the brilliant Darcy Perry Blues Band headlining the Victoria Square Stage as they celebrate the 20th anniversary of their album “Heavy Rain”. Plus, there’s jazz, easy listening music, and performances by talented dance groups.

For the kids, there’s face painting, sugar art, giant bubbles, and head to the Empire Street Kids Zone to join characters Moana, Spiderman, Anna and Elsa for fun, games and crafts.

If art is your happy place, browse and admire the beautiful art, jewellery, pottery, carving, and see the woodturners in action. Then head to the Town Hall for the Art Exhibition + Sale and visit the Exhibition of Photos and Quilts in the St Andrew’s Church Hall.

Kids Zone Art Market Art Market

Come and enjoy this amazing community day!

Live Music

Cambridge Autumn Festival

TE AWA LIFECARE

MAIN STREET CARNIVAL

10AM  2PM

SUNDAY 22ND MARCH

VICTORIA SQUARE

10am Floating on Air - giant bubbles

10.20am Cambridge High School Big Band 11am Cambridge High School Jazz Band

11.15am Floating on Air - giant bubbles

11.45am Darcy Perry Blues Band

1pm Alby Collier - guitar & vocals

1.30pm Te Ropu Kapa Haka o Kemureti

DAYDREAM CAFÉ

10.15am Ignite Arts Academy Music Students

11am Zoë Clarke - violin

12noon Cherie Holden - singer 1pm Z.O.H.D.I.A.C.K - duo

FRAN’S CAFÉ

10.45am Alby Collier - guitar & vocals

11.45am Jessica Kent-McDonald - guitar & vocals

1.30pm T & M Showstopper - duo

10am Ignite - Dance

10.30am Riverside Ukes

11.30am KS School of Dance

12noon A rmation - band

12.45pm Strive Performing Arts

1.15pm Cambridge Brass Band

ROUGE COURTYARD

10am Mosaic Choir

11.15am Jazz Guitar Jase

12.45pm St Peter’s School Music Students BNZ

EMPIRE ST KIDS ZONE

10am Crafts and games with Spiderman & Moana

12noon Crafts and games with Anna & Elsa

PLUS ROVING STREET

PERFORMERS, SUGAR ART, FACE PAINTING, AND GIANT BUBBLES!

A line in the river

New Zealand Outdoor Instructors’ Association Bush Leader and senior writer Chris Gardner shares how the mutual support method saved the day on the Waitawheta Tramway track.

The tramping group wobbled across the Waitawheta River like a line of nervous tightrope walkers.

They hopped, skipped, and leapt from rock to rock, arms stretched wide as they tried to keep their boots dry and themselves out of the water.

Almost everyone had a moment teetering on the brink of a splash. One tramper even managed the crossing while carrying a small child tucked “safely” under their arms.

Bridges were out after being washed away by Cyclone Gabrielle, but the Department of Conservation had opened the Waitawheta Tramway track with the warning some river crossings were necessary.

Boulder hopping is not recommended as boulders can slippery or unstable and a fall can have serous consequences.

Our group – scout Kaiarahi and youth completing a three-day adventurous journey for the Chief Scout’s Rimu Award – watched others cross and learned from their mistakes.

“You know what to do,” I said as our scouts checked the river was safe to cross before discussing their plan to use the mutual support method and executing a textbook crossing.

They had watched the New Zealand Mountain Safety Council’s Get Outdoors series, read the Bushcraft Manual, and practiced the skill many times on dry land.

The Bushcraft Manual suggests lining the party up with a strong people at the upstream end of the line, the strongest, most experienced person next to them for extra support, another strong person at the downstream end and the rest of the group in between.

The group undoes backpack chest straps,

in case a stumble makes a quick release of the pack necessary, and loosening shoulder straps.

Then the group checks backpack hip belts are done up.

Arms are inserted between each neighbour’s backpack and the back, and group members grasp either their neighbour’s hip belt or pack strap down low on the side furthest from them. They move into the river as a single unit, on shuffling step at a time.

There is, of course, much more to it than this.

River crossing should never be attempted without prior training and plenty of practice.

Drowning was once known as the national death because more people died from drowning than any other cause.

Some might have considered our scouts approach as overkill, given the slow flow of the river and its shallow depth, but the mutual support method reduced the risk of an autumn soaking at the very least.

Providing transport to medical and health related appointments between Cambridge, Hamilton and return. 0800 846 9992

Bookings are required by 3.00pm the working day prior to appointment. Donations appreciated.

Across 1. Spice used in Middle Eastern cuisine (5) 4. Strongly dislike (6) 8. Missile (7)

9. Remote in manner (5) 10. Fitness exercise (3,2) 11. Bright red (7) 12. Quantity (6) 14. Pang

Last week

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Spacious (5)

Conflagration (7)

Amiss (6)

Coherent (5)

Across: 1. Bacon, 4. Almost, 7. Orb, 8. Caviar, 9. Anyway, 10. Goodnaturedly, 14. Rigid, 15. Quota, 18. Hit the jackpot, 23. Advice, 24. Groggy, 25. Sue, 26. Exodus, 27. Token. Down: 1. Bravo, 2. Child, 3. Normal, 4. Abacus, 5. Maybe, 6. Shawl, 10. Girth, 11. Ought, 12. Droop, 13. Yeast, 16. Recess, 17. Gadget, 19. Index, 20. Triad, 21. Kiosk, 22. Organ.

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BANANA ROLL

BANG TOFU

BAOZI

BRAISED PORK

CHA SIU BAO

CHAR SIU

CHOW MEIN

COCONUT BAR CONGEE

DIM SUM EGG TART

FRIED EEL

GRASS JELLY

HOT POT

JIAOZI

LAMIAN

MAHUA

MANTOU

MAPO TOFU

MOONCAKE

NAI LAO

NOODLE SOUP

PEKING DUCK

POPIAH

RICE PUDDING

SACHIMA

SHAOBING SHUIZHU

SONG GAO

SOY EGG

TANGYUAN

TARO PUREE

TEA EGG

TONG SUI

WONTON

YANPI

YOUTIAO

ZONGZI

•

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Using tech safely

Technology is an integral part of everyday life in New Zealand, from online banking and contactless payments to booking medical appointments and staying in touch with family.

For many older people who lived in a world where none of this was even thought of, this rapid change often feels overwhelming.

How many of us have heard another, joking “I’ll just ask my 10-year-old grandson to do it!”?

With the right support, patience, and safety advice, however, technology can become a helpful tool rather than a source of stress.

Online banking remains one of the biggest concerns for older generations, especially with the closure of so many branches in smaller towns.

While it can save time and reduce the need for travel, it also introduces worries about scams and mistakes – something that exponentially, is increasing and much more sophisticated than even the techaware of us realise.

A good starting point is to sit down together with someone you trust and go through the basics slowly. This includes logging in, checking balances, paying bills, and logging out securely. Writing simple step-bystep notes can be useful, especially for people who prefer something they can refer back to later.

Safety is absolutely key. Older users need to understand the necessity to create strong, unique passwords and never share them with anyone, most especially people claiming to be from the bank.

Banks in New Zealand will never ask for passwords or one-time codes over the phone or by email. Understanding common scams - such as fake emails, text messages, or phone calls - can make a huge difference. If something feels urgent, threatening, or “too good to be true,” it is best to stop and

check with a trusted family member or the bank directly.

And these days, banks and similar institutions are asking for two-factor authentication, meaning you can have a digital password, but to be absolutely sure it’s you, may also need a code that will come through on your cellphone to verify who you are.

Everyday digital payments, such as using EFTPOS, PayWave, or mobile wallets, can also feel intimidating at first. Practising in a calm environment helps build confidence. Many people find it reassuring to start with small amounts and learn how to check receipts and bank statements to confirm transactions are correct. For those involved in helping the navigation of the tech world, patience and encouragement matter just as much as technical instruction. It is important to avoid rushing or taking over, which can leave people feeling powerless and not wanting to ask for help – which in turn leaves them at a serious financial disadvantage.

Instead, letting older learners do the steps themselves - while offering gentle guidance - helps build independence.

Community support can also play a role. Libraries, senior centres, and banks often run free digital literacy sessions designed specifically for older adults. These provide a safe, friendly space to ask questions without embarrassment.

With understanding, clear explanations, and a strong focus on safety, today’s technology can help older generations stay independent, connected, and confident in a digital world.

Legal Experts in Elder Law

An elder law solicitor can advise on all aspects of future planning and undertake a full review of your affairs to ensure you receive the right entitlements and care, and that your estate is managed according to your wishes. The team at Lewis Lawyers covers an extensive range of

Legal Experts in Elder Law

An elder law solicitor can advise on all aspects of future planning and undertake a full review of your

The team at Lewis Lawyers covers an

including occupation right agreements, succession planning, wills, enduring powers of attorney, PPPR applications (property manager and welfare guardian), capacity issues, residential loans and subsidies, asset protection and elder abuse.

including occupation right agreements, succession planning, wills, enduring powers of attorney, PPPR applications (property manager and welfare guardian), capacity

Driving and cognitive test issues

In New Zealand, drivers must meet medical fitness standards to hold a licence, and for older drivers this can include cognitive screening by your family doctor.

While intended to improve road safety, recent rule changes have meant failing a cognitive test can have significant personal and social consequences, particularly for drivers over 65 – especially as there is currently no ability to apply for an appeal to Waka Kotahi NZTA.

One of the key issues is that cognitive tests are screening tools, not definitive assessments of driving ability.

Factors such as anxiety, fatigue, hearing or vision problems, language background, or unfamiliarity with testing environments can affect results. A single poor performance may not accurately reflect a person’s day-to-day functioning or realworld driving competence.

And this can have quite an impact when the doctor taking you for this test is not the one who knows you and your history, something that happens much more frequently in today’s times than it ever has before.

Losing a licence can have serious impacts. For many older Kiwis - especially those in rural or provincial areas - driving is essential for independence, social connection, medical appointments, and

mental wellbeing. Sudden licence loss can contribute to isolation, depression, and reduced quality of life.

There are also concerns about consistency and subjectivity. Different GPs may use different tools or thresholds, leading to uneven outcomes. Some patients report limited explanation or lack of clarity about appeal options.

However, there are some possible alternative suggestions to think about, than relying solely on brief cognitive tests.

These alternatives include:

• On-road driving assessments conducted by qualified occupational therapists

• Conditional or restricted licences, such as daylight-only or local-area driving

• Regular review periods, allowing time for reassessment rather than immediate licence cancellation

• Multidisciplinary input, combining medical, functional, and driving evaluations

A more graduated, individualised approach can balance safety with fairness. As New Zealand’s population ages, refining how fitness-to-drive decisions are made will be essentialprotecting public safety while respecting dignity, independence, and the realities of ageing.

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Hearing Aid Technology

Hearing aid technology has advanced dramatically in recent years, providing us with more effective, comfortable, and connected ways to manage hearing loss.

Far beyond simple sound amplification, modern hearing aids now include intelligent features, seamless connectivity, and personalised sound processing that make daily listening easier and more natural for users.

One of the most significant developments is the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into hearing aids. Unlike older digital models that simply amplified all sounds, AI hearing aids can automatically distinguish between speech and background noise and adjust settings in real time to enhance clarity and comfort. These systems use deep neural networks—similar to those found in smartphone speech processing—to prioritise conversations and reduce unwanted noise, especially in challenging listening environments like cafés or social gatherings.

Leading brands available through New Zealand audiologists have embraced AIdriven sound processing.

For example, ReSound’s Vivia™ 9 uses advanced AI to prioritise the speech that matters most and can connect to compatible public audio systems using Auracast™ and Bluetooth LE Audio for clearer hearing in busy spaces.

Other models, such as Oticon’s Intent series, feature 4D user-intent sensors that adapt sound based on head and body movement, conversation activity, and the surrounding environment, offering a tailored sound experience for each user.

Rechargeability is another innovation

transforming user experience. Modern hearing aids now often come with long-lasting rechargeable batteries, eliminating the need for frequent battery changes and offering a full day of use with a single charge. This not only simplifies daily routines but also makes devices more environmentally friendly and convenient.

Connectivity has also seen major progress. Bluetooth compatibility allows wearers to stream phone calls, music, and TV audio directly to their hearing aids - a feature many users find enhances both communication and entertainment.

Dedicated smartphone apps now let users fine-tune settings and save personalised listening profiles, which can adapt automatically to familiar environments like home or work. These technical advancements are more than just incremental upgrades; they represent a shift toward devices that work intuitively with the wearer’s lifestyle. By combining intelligent sound processing, app-based control, rechargeable batteries, and seamless connectivity, today’s hearing aids help users stay engaged, active, and connected to family and community - a crucial benefit as hearing loss becomes more common with age.

For New Zealanders living with hearing challenges, these innovations offer not only clearer sound but also greater confidence, independence, and quality of life.

EXPERIENCE AND EMPATHY DISTINGUISH NEWLY OPENED GIBSON FUNERALS

A flawless reputation is what families seek when the time comes to find the right funeral home. Jono Gibson, managing director of Cambridge’s newest funeral business, Gibson Funerals, has it in spades.

Jono’s integrity, compassion, and professionalism have won him the local community’s trust and support over the seven years he has worked in the funeral industry here in Cambridge.

Following the sale of Legacy Funerals, Jono found himself in a position to take the next step in his career and open his own, family-owned funeral home. The opening of Gibson Funerals this month, something he is doing with wife Ashleigh’s unwavering support, sees the fruition of that long-held dream.

“Owning my own business has been an ambition of mine for some time. When we first came to Cambridge, I remember saying that I saw myself having my own funeral home within 10 years … we’re doing it in seven,” he said. “This opportunity has come my way and I’m ready to make it work.”

Jono brings more than a decade of experience to Gibson Funerals. His start in the industry was in Auckland, in 2013, where he worked in two of the city’s most respected funeral homes and dealt

with a wide clientele in terms of religions and cultures. He went on to gain his national diploma in funeral directing in 2019 which saw him become a qualified, registered funeral director, then honed his management skills.

Alongside growing his professional experience, Jono and Ashleigh were also growing their family. They purchased a house in Cambridge, had two children –Monty and Goldie – and together with their much-loved labradoodle Charlie, have embedded themselves as pillars in the local community.

Ashleigh is Head of Dance and Head of Year 9 at St Peter’s School. As a certified celebrant, Ashleigh is looking forward to utilising these skills to support Jono in the business in addition to her fulltime role at the school.

Jono is a valued member of both the Cambridge Rotary Club and Cambridge business chamber. He has built strong relationships with local businesses and organisations and wants to bring his vision of being ‘Cambridge’s leading

funeral home’ to fruition.

A family seeking the services of a funeral home is grieving, uncertain, o en burdened with decisions they have never faced before.

Jono’s mindful approach is one that o ers sincerity and compassion. He patiently and empathetically leads people through the practical steps involved, approaching each funeral in a bespoke way that honours each life authentically and brings comfort to those le behind.

The new Gibson Funerals building o ers an inviting and calming space, where families can gather, reflect and honour their loved one with comfort and ease. Working alongside Jono in the business is funeral director Jacqui Ralph, who brings her years of experience as a qualified funeral director, and her experience in Natural Body Care, an alternative to embalming.

“Now is the right time for Gibson Funerals,” Jono says. “Our town is growing, and I look forward to continuing to serve the Cambridge community.

Gibson Funerals’ focus on honouring individual stories and creating bespoke services that reflect each person’s uniqueness is apparent in its well-considered logo.

Running under the image of a single fingerprint, the slogan reads: ‘Gibson Funerals – A Lasting Impression’. The icon itself features an imperfect, hand-drawn spiral inspired by the koru, enclosed within the lines of a fingerprint. The raw, uneven strokes reflect the nature of life—everchanging, layered, and full of movement. The koru, drawn from the unfurling silver fern frond, is a powerful Māori symbol of new beginnings, growth, and peace.

The fingerprint reinforces the deeply personal nature of every farewell. Just as no two fingerprints are the same, each life and story is unique. It honours the individual imprint each person leaves behind.

“That image signifies for us the uniqueness of each person we cross paths with, and the lasting qualities of a fingerprint.” – Jono and Ashleigh Gibson.

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THE ART OF living well

At Te Awa Lifecare, we believe life should continue to be lived fully, warmly and well.

Set amongst beautiful open spaces on the edge of Cambridge, Te Awa Lifecare o ers a unique lifestyle where independence, companionship and peace of mind come together. From architecturally designed villas and serviced cottages to our 24-hour care centre and specialised dementia homestead, every stage of living is thoughtfully supported.

However, Te Awa Lifecare is more than just beautiful homes and quality care - it’s a vibrant community within a community. Residents enjoy shared experiences, new friendships, activities, events and the simple pleasure of knowing neighbours and sta who genuinely care. Here, life continues to unfold with comfort, connection and security - all within a welcoming environment that celebrates wellbeing, independence and belonging.

At Te Awa Lifecare, it’s not just about where you live. It’s about how you live. Te Awa Lifecare — living the life you deserve.

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For enquiries about living at Te Awa Lifecare, contact Nikki at any time on 027 417 5617, or email nikki@teawalifecare.nz

New disabled older people’s group

Older people often face overlapping challenges related to age, accessibility, health and participation in community life – and for some, being disabled can feel like an insurmountable issue at times.

However, help is available – it’s just knowing where to turn.

The relatively recently formed Disabled Older People’s Group (DOPG) is one of the voices that has emerged nationally to represent the interests and rights of people who live at this intersection of ageing and disability.

This group brings attention to the lived experience of older disabled people - people who identify as disabled not simply because of their health conditions, but because of the barriers they face in everyday life and society.

DOPG advocates for a social model of disability, which focuses on removing environmental and attitudinal barriers that prevent full participation, rather than viewing impairment alone as the problem. Their work complements that of organisations like Grey Power, which represents older people’s interests broadly, and disability rights groups such as Disabled Persons Assembly NZ (DPA), which works for inclusion and equity across all age groups.

The group raises awareness about issues uniquely affecting disabled older people - including access to appropriate health care, suitable housing, transportation, and social inclusion. They often publish articles and submissions to both local and central government to contribute to

public dialogue and policy thinking. DOPGs insights help ensure older disabled voices are considered in broader disability policy discussions and initiatives. While they may not be a formal Disabled People’s Organisation (DPO) coalition member, their perspective aligns with the work of groups like DPA that advocate system-wide change.

By engaging with government consultations and publications, DOPG helps shape policies that affect access to services, supports, and the built environment.

This continues through articles and public commentary, helping the wider public and service providers better understand the needs and rights of disabled older people.

Working alongside other advocacy organisations and networks strengthens collective impact. For example, broader disability networks like the DPO Coalition bring disabled-led voices into national conversations about rights and services. In a society with an ageing population, the Disabled Older People’s Group plays a critical role in ensuring that older disabled Kiwis are not overlooked - championing dignity, independence, inclusion, and respect throughout later life. For those who want more information, contact ahawker011@gmail.com.

Choosing a rest home with hospital facilities in Waipa

For many whānau, it’s about ensuring dignity, safety, comfort and the right level of care now and into the future. Before you start looking, arrange a formal needs assessment through your local Needs Assessment Service Coordination (NASC) service, often with the help of your GP. This assessment determines whether the person requires rest-home level support or hospitallevel care, which includes more complex nursing, medication management and clinical oversight. Knowing this ensures you look at facilities that match your current and potential future needs. Every rest home and hospital in New Zealand must be certified and audited by the Te Whatu Ora (Ministry of Health). These audit reports assess care quality, staffing, safety, clinical records and overall management. Reviewing these reports gives you an independent picture of how well a facility performs and highlights any concerns that have been noted.

Understand all costs: basic governmentsubsidised fees, potential premium room charges, (even ones with an ensuite) and any extras like specialist outings or therapies. Carefully read the admission agreement before signing - it explains responsibilities, any potential or required additional costs and residents’ rights. Choosing a facility close to whānau and friends can make regular visits easier, which supports the resident’s emotional wellbeing and keeps them connected to community.

Make sure you take your time, ask plenty of questions, review official information and trust your observations. A wellchosen facility will not only meet medical needs but support quality of life in every way.

Nothing replaces seeing a potential resthome in person. Arrange visits to your shortlist of facilities, ideally at different times of day. Look at how staff interact with residents, observe mealtimes and activities, and pay attention to the atmosphere - does it feel welcoming and respectful? Ask to speak with managers and care staff to understand staff-to-resident ratios, registered nurse coverage and how care plans are personalised. Check the physical environment: accessibility features (ramps, handrails, non-slip flooring), cleanliness, room sizes and options (private or shared, ensuite or not), and outdoor spaces. Hospital care units may have more clinical equipment and design features tailored to residents with high dependency needs. Good facilities will offer social, cultural and recreational activities that keep residents engaged and connected. Ask about their programmes, involvement of family, and support for individual hobbies or interests. Emotional and mental wellbeing is known to be as important as physical health.

Owners change at longstanding funeral home

A change in ownership at a local business brings the ‘Cambridge’ back to a funeral home that had its roots here 80 years ago and is opening doors to more flexible farewells.

On December 1, Legacy Funerals Cambridge reverted back to Cambridge Funeral Home under the new ownership of Carla and Phil Turner.

The couple, who live in the area and have educated their children here, have a deep sense of returning the business to its community roots after it operated for several years under the Legacy banner.

The Turners have been active professionals in the industry for 10 years, beginning their journey with Melrose Funeral Home in Tauranga, named for Carla’s mum Gayle Melrose with whom they started the business.

From there, they spread across the region, adding Simply Funerals, Simplicity Funeral Home, Simply Cremations, Waihi Funeral Home and Te Rapa Crematorium to their portfolio, along with Simply Trust, which worked with families to prepay or pre-arrange their wishes. Next, they launched Simply Estate, which takes care of all the matters arising after a death, including the packing up of houses and belongings, and the cleaning and selling of a home of a deceased person whose family are not around to tackle those jobs.

Together with many of their own family – including their seven children who are part of their family support system – they work in the business to provide a streamlined professional and compassionate service to people of all cultures and religions.

“This is not a job for me … it’s a real passion,” Carla explains. “I think it’s important to distinguish between family-owned and the big operators who are more profit-

driven. We are family-driven and we’re not strangers to Cambridge. It’s exciting to be opening here.”

Carla had a varied career before moving into the funeral industry. Those years of experience across numerous fields have forged in her a unique ability to understand people from all walks of life.

She’s sassy and smart, someone who recognises the importance of empowering families to have control and choice over how they farewell their loved ones.

“It’s more than just a business because of that. After all, you can get married half a dozen times, but you pass on just once. It is important to make sure that farewell is exactly as it should be for that person.”

Cambridge Funeral Home will remain at the same place, nestled at the base of the hill at 2 Albert Street in Carter’s Flat. Also staying on is funeral director Ian Calvert, who has been there for several years, and his wife Raewyn, who will continue as a funeral celebrant. Joining them will be Carla’s daughter Lyric, who does their marketing and IT, and another daughter Kaylan, who is an embalmer. Carla’s mum Gayle will be in several times a week, as will Carla herself.

Ensuring families have choices – and finding ways to personalise each service to suit the deceased and their family – is crucial to Carla and her team. They see every journey of loss as deeply individual.

“Families often don’t realise that they don’t have to rush into decisions. They can take their time … we can keep their loved one for as long as it takes,” she says. “It’s vital

to get it right, and if they don’t know what they want, we can guide them through those options.”

The choices they offer are adaptable and right up to date. They have even been involved in taking families through farewelling those who have died through an assisted death.

There is so much more to funerals today than a simple choice of burial or cremation. Carla encourages families not to be afraid of having early conversations with family members about what options might be open to them, or perhaps even coming in for a visit to get some advice.

Greater flexibility is the today’s norm, and the Turners can offer cremations at their Te Rapa Crematorium that respectfully fit with whatever cultural requirements may be required.

They are also introducing a water-cremation option that offers an environmentally-sustainable alternative to traditional cremation. Also known as Green Cremation, the process uses a mixture of water and alkaline solution to break a body down quickly in a special chamber. “It does in about four hours what happens beneath the ground over a much longer period.”

Those seeking more traditional types of burials or services can advance any ideas on personal touches. Gayle has done funerals where the casket has been driven from the service on a tractor, and there is a golf-cart alternative for someone who had a penchant for the game.

“It simply a case of talking to us about what you want as a family,” Carla says.

Taking care of your pets when you can’t

For many Kiwis, pets are an integral part of the family. They provide companionship and comfort, particularly for those in the winter of their lives.

Yet when facing major life changes - such as moving into an aged care facility or planning for what happens after your death - pet care can often be inadvertently overlooked.

Making arrangements in advance ensures your animals continue to receive love, stability, and proper care. If you are considering a move into an aged care facility, it’s important to know that most facilities do not accommodate pets. Begin by identifying trusted friends or family members who may be willing to take your pet. Have open conversations early, so expectations are clear. It’s also wise to write down key information about your pet: feeding routines, veterinary details, medications, behavioural quirks, and likes or dislikes. This makes the transition easier and reduces stress for both your pet and their new caregiver.

Some people choose to arrange temporary foster care while longerterm plans are finalised. Reputable animal welfare organisations or breed-specific rescue groups in New Zealand may be able to help, particularly if planning is done well in advance.

Pets are considered property under New Zealand law, which means, unlike some other countries, they cannot

inherit money directly.

However, you can include clear instructions in your will about who should care for your pet and leave funds to help cover ongoing costs such as food, vet care, and grooming. It’s important to confirm beforehand that your chosen caregiver agrees to take on this responsibility. Naming a backup option is also recommended in case circumstances change.

Some people also create a pet care memorandum - a separate document that outlines day-to-day care instructions.

While not legally binding, it provides valuable guidance.

Budgeting for your pet’s future care is essential. Veterinary costs, especially for older animals, can be significant.

Setting aside funds or arranging a specific bequest helps ensure your pet’s needs are met without burdening others.

Making these plans may feel emotional, but it is an act of kindness and responsibility. Knowing your pet will be cared for allows you to focus on your own wellbeing and ensures your companion remains safe, settled, and loved - no matter what changes life brings.

If you need legal advice, consult your lawyer and make sure to update your plans when circumstances change.

Planning ahead brings peace of mind

Your retirement years are for enjoying life — but they’re also a good time to make sure your wishes are known. A personalised funeral lets your loved ones celebrate your life, your way. At Grinter’s Funeral Home, we o er pre-planning options that ease the burden when the time comes.

Call us today or request our Pre-Arrangement

It’s Time to Experience Premium Independent Retirement Living

Family owned and operated, Te Awamutu’s High eld Country Estate was established in 2012 and is set in beautifully landscaped grounds.

Due to unprecedented demand for quality independent living, we are proud to release a limited number of brand-new two- and three-bedroom villas , thoughtfully designed for comfort, sun, and e ortless living.

Construction of Stage One of our newest villas at High eld Country Estate is moving ahead swiftly, with a scheduled completion date of 1st October 2026.

With Stage One now under construction and Stage Two planning already underway, this is an exciting opportunity to secure your place in one of the region’s most sought-after retirement communities.

“The reality is that people living here enjoy it so much, they tell their friends, and we want to be able to o er the same lifestyle to more people,” explains High eld General Manager, Sheryl Thomas.

Our Residents Enjoy the Benefits of:

•A family focused and dedicated Management Team

•Friendly, welcoming and supportive sta

• A comprehensive programme of weekly social outings, events and activities

•A safe and secure living environment

•Beautifully landscaped well-established and maintained grounds

•A vibrant community atmosphere and sense of belonging

•A focus on health, tness and well-being

•Maintenance free, lifestyle living

“One of the best decisions we made was to move into High eld, where we know, and our family knows, that we live in a safe, happy, and friendly environment where people look out for one another. We love living here and if you are lucky enough to get the opportunity to purchase a villa, please come and join us and enjoy our retirement.” – Dave & Shona Hollinshead

To learn more about the bene ts of independent lifestyle living at High eld and to organise a personalised tour of our facilities contact General Manager Sheryl Thomas – 07 871 2020 manager@high eldcountryestate.co.nz | 397 Swarbrick Drive, Te Awamutu www.high eldcountryestate.co.nz

e Lifestyle You Want, the Peace of Mind You Deserve

Bupa St Kilda Retirement Village

Wednesday 1 April 10am - 12pm

Looking for dinner inspiration?

Cooking for one, or two, doesn’t need to mean compromising flavour or nutrition. Beloved New Zealand cook and author Allyson Gofton will be at Bupa St Kilda to share advice on how to create nutritious, tasty, fuss-free meals perfectly portioned for smaller households.

Please RSVP to this free event by 27 March at bupa.co.nz/events or call Nicola on 022 036 7982.

Bupa St Kilda Retirement Village | 91 Alan Livingston Drive, Cambridge

Tauwhare 43 Scotsman Valley Road

Cambridge 13 Ada Close

Luxury riverside, central living!

Live in the heart of Cambridge with a back drop of river views and where a flat white and hydrotherapy is only a short walk from your front door. Exclusive gated enclave, and a 400sqm (more or less) freehold section leaves more room for weekend fun. Built in 2021, 259sqm (more or less) over two levels with lift access between the floors. Ground floor guest bedrooms, and large bathroom kept distinct from the spacious upstairs master suite with walnut walk in wardrobe, and heated tiled ensuite. Open plan living with Miele, Falmec and Electrolux kitchen appliances, scullery, built in bar, and tiled balcony overlooking the river. Double glazed, with double internal access garage, large mud room, and timed lawn irrigation. A stylish, and easy care next chapter awaits you! bayleys.co.nz/2351054

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• 64sqm (more or less) shed and two paddocks on 1 hectare (more or less)

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- Generously sized 915m² (more or less) section.

- Brand-new kitchen and stylish new bathroom.

- The conservatory adds an extra layer of charm.

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Executive Living - Hall St, Cambridge

36A Hall Street, Cambridge

- Master bedroom is huge with ensuite & walk-through robe.

- Light-filled living areas - french doors flow to a private deck.

- Garage with two light filled rooms at the back & workshop/ hobby room space to the side (bench with sink) AND a bathroom.

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- Beautifully designed townhouse, complete with a private courtyard.

- Floor-to-ceiling windows bathe the interior in natural light.

- Upstairs, includes an office nook & 3 generous double bedrooms.

Open Homes Saturday 11 - 11.30am & Sunday 2 - 2.30pm

Income & Opportunity, Ultimate St Kilda

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- Set on approximately 6.0 hectares (14.8 acres)

- Architecturally designed Hinuera 4 bedroom home.

- Separate 2 bedroom dwelling - extended family or extra income.

- large high-stud shed with three roller doors - equestrian facilities. View By Appointment

14 Alba Place, Cambridge

- New kitchen, dining, and large second living area flow effortlessly, spilling out to a north-facing, private back garden.

- Log fire and clever heat transfer system keep winter nights cozy. Open Homes Saturday 1 - 1.30pm & Sunday 12.00 - 12.30pm

Effortless Family Living

18A Saffron Street, Cambridge

- Freshly updated with new carpet, drapes, blinds & tiled living areas.

- Outdoor living, with a sun-soaked deck extending from the living areas and adjustable louvres providing year-round usability.

- Set on a generous 927sqm (more or less) of flat, family-friendly land.

Open Homes Saturday & Sunday 1.00 - 1.30pm

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

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

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

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

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

Farmers weather every storm

Stronger sheep and dairy prices, community support and improving market outlooks are helping restore confidence in

farming communities, reports senior writer Mary Anne Gill.

Improving farmgate prices and the prospect of new export opportunities through a proposed New Zealand-India Free Trade Agreement are giving Waipā farmers renewed confidence after several difficult years, Agriculture minister Todd McClay says.

Speaking to Good Local Media during a recent briefing with Waikato business and farming leaders, McClay said better sheep and dairy returns, combined with access to growing overseas markets, were beginning to lift confidence across rural communities.

“For the first time in a long time, farmers are starting to see the numbers stack up again,” he said. “They’re paying down debt, investing back into their farms, and thinking about increasing production.”

That improving outlook, however, has come as parts of the district deal with the aftermath of recent flooding, particularly around Te Awamutu and neighbouring areas of Ōtorohanga. While not all farms were affected, McClay acknowledged the weather had delivered another challenge for those already under pressure.

“I absolutely feel for farmers dealing with yet another extreme weather event,” he said, describing farming as one of the most resilient - but also most isolatedprofessions in the country.

“Farming can be very lonely, even though rural communities are incredibly strong. When it’s wet, when you’re worried about your animals, and you’re dealing with damage day after day, you can feel very alone.”

For many Waipā farmers, the flooding has come on top of several already difficult years marked by low commodity prices, rising compliance costs and uncertainty about land use.

rural communities themselves.

McClay said the government’s focus on resilience goes beyond farm balance sheets to the wellbeing of farming families and

In last year’s Budget, $4 million was set aside specifically to support community‑led resilience initiatives - programmes designed by farmers, for farmers.

“This isn’t about business resilience a lot of that already happens,” he said.

“It’s about the resilience of individuals, families and communities.”

Initiatives range from organised activities like “surfing for farmers” to informal gatherings such as “blokes on gateposts”, encouraging farmers to connect, step away from the farm and talk openly.

“If you live in town, you can pop out and see your mates or go for a meal. That’s not always easy in rural New Zealand,” McClay said.

“When rural communities are strong, the people in them do well - and when rural New Zealand does

Continued on page 34

Planning the Next Chapter: Navigating Retirement with Confidence

Waipa is evolving into a desirable retirement destination, known for its tree-lined streets, vibrant town centre, and close-knit community. With new retirement villages emerging, it’s becoming one of New Zealand’s most sought-after hubs for retirees.

Retirement marks a significant milestone, bringing excitement and new questions. Common concerns include whether to downsize, the suitability of retirement villages, and ensuring legal documents like Wills are current. Consulting a lawyer specialising in elder law can facilitate this transition, helping you create a clear plan, update your Will, establish Enduring Powers of Attorney, and navigate the legal aspects of retirement village living.

Your Will

Many New Zealanders find their Wills outdated or nonexistent. Life changes—such as family dynamics, asset shifts, and the arrival of grandchildren—necessitate updates. A lawyer can ensure your Will accurately reflects your current wishes, protecting your loved ones and preventing future confusion

Enduring Powers of Attorney

Enduring Powers of Attorney are crucial, allowing trusted individuals to make decisions regarding your property or personal care if you’re unable to do so. Without these arrangements, families may face stressful and costly court applications. Setting them up in advance provides certainty and peace of mind.

Understanding Retirement Village Living

Waipa has seen significant growth in retirement village developments. Unlike traditional home purchases, moving into a retirement village involves complex legal arrangements, typically through an Occupation Right Agreement (ORA). Seeking legal advice before committing is essential to fully understand your rights and obligations.

Creating Certainty for the Future

Retirement planning isn’t about anticipating the worst; it’s about preparation. It involves protecting your assets, ensuring trusted individuals can step in if needed, and clearly documenting your wishes. With legal guidance, these matters can be proactively addressed, making retirement more about opportunity than uncertainty.

With the right planning, retirement can be a confident new beginning. It’s a time to enjoy grandchildren, travel, volunteer, or embrace a slower pace of life—all with the reassurance that your affairs are in order and your family is protected.

Retirement is your next chapter; with careful preparation and sound legal advice, it can be a truly rewarding experience

Rachael Beattie

Te

Fresh thinking needed

“The bus stop could be the next hotspot of innovation.”

Public transport in our region is quietly proving its value.

Bus services connecting fast growing towns such as Cambridge and Te Awamutu are seeing increasing patronage.

When reliable services exist, people will use them - and that tells us there is real potential to build something much bigger.

But success brings responsibility. If we want more frequent buses, better connections, and a network that genuinely serves our communities, the system must be used.

Public transport cannot thrive on good intentions alone. Patronage drives investment, and communities need to step up and make the network part of everyday travel.

Employers can play a key role. Around the world, businesses are including public transport in staff wellbeing and sustainability initiatives.

Locally, offering Bee Cards as part of employee packages can encourage

staff to try buses for commuting.

By Liz Stolwyk, Regional Councillor

Equally important is feedback: if routes don’t match work hours or commuter needs, councils need to know so improvements can be made.

Elected members also need to think beyond today’s transport models.

Driverless vehicles, hydrogen powered buses, and smarter digital systems are no longer distant ideas they are already shaping the future. Innovation is essential if our communities are to remain connected and congestion free.

Growth across the Waikato region continues at pace.

Hamilton is the economic engine, but surrounding towns such as Cambridge, Te Awamutu, Ōtorohanga, Te Kūiti and Waitomo are vital to supporting that growth. Commuting, freight movement, and local travel are putting pressure on both state highways and local roads.

These pressures cannot be solved by widening one road or building another intersection.

The answer lies in an integrated

network buses, trains, walking and cycling infrastructure, all supported by technology.

The Future Proof partnership has been crucial in planning for long-term regional growth.

But strategy alone is not enough. The focus must now shift to delivery turning plans into action that people can see and use.

The Te Huia train also sits within this conversation.

With a one year extension, there is time to assess its future, but patronage has declined and subsidies remain high.

If people want the service to continue, they must use it.

To keep our communities connected, competitive, and free from congestion, councils, businesses, and residents must think differently, embrace innovation, and turn planning into action.

Farmers weather every storm

Continued on page 33

well, all of New Zealand does well.”

McClay said rebuilding trust with farmers has also meant reducing unnecessary regulatory costs.

He pointed to reforms removing rules that “added cost but didn’t deliver environmental outcomes”, and changes to stop large-scale full-farm conversions to forestry.

“That law was backdated, and it’s working,” he said.

“Forward orders for pine seedlings have virtually disappeared. What we’re seeing now is legacy planting from years ago, not new conversions.”

While recovery from flooding is immediate and physical, McClay said long-term resilience depends on confidence there will be markets for what farmers produce. That is where improved prices and access to new export markets become critical.

“Our job as a government is to reduce costs and open up markets,” he said.

He said the proposed India–

New Zealand Free Trade Agreement could help.

“Lower tariffs mean better prices and that means better returns at the farmgate,” McClay said.

McClay acknowledged the

recent floods had been “exceptional” and said agencies were continuing to work through issues around waterways, forestry slash and catchment-based rules to reduce future risk.

But he remained optimistic.

“Farmers are resilient they always have been,” he said.

“If we get the rules and the markets right, rural New Zealand will continue to lead this country forward.”

Heart health for Fieldays

When getting to the doctor is easier said than done, a Waikato heart team is using Fieldays to put rural health front and centre, reports Mary Anne Gill.

Health care is something that fits in when it can in rural communities.

Stock needs moving, weather waits for no one, and a “quick trip” to town can chew up half a day. That reality is exactly why the Waikato Cardiothoracic (Heart & Lung Surgery) team is heading back to Fieldays for the third year running. The Waikato Hospital team will again be part of

the Fieldays Health Hub, taking heart health checks out of the clinic and straight to where rural people already are. The Waikato cardiothoracic service covers a vast population across the Te Manawa Taki region, stretching from the Coromandel through to Gisborne and across to Taranaki.

A significant portion of those people live and work

in rural communities, where access to regular healthcare can be challenging due to distance, time pressures and workforce shortages, says clinical nurse specialist Kelsey Abercrombie.

“Fieldays provides a unique opportunity to bring heart health screening directly to the community in a relaxed and accessible setting,” she says.

“Last year we screened

We specialise in general engineering & farm machinery repairs, offering expert welding and maintenance alongside specialised fabrication, milling, turning, & custom jobs.

thousands of attendees and were able to encourage GP follow‑up where needed, helping raise awareness about the importance of knowing your pulse and recognising early warning signs. We also use our stall to chat with school-age children about health careers.”

Across the event, the team offers simple heart rhythm checks, practical advice, and conversations about heart health without an appointment, referral, or waiting room. The value of that approach was clear last year when more than 1500 heart rhythm screenings were carried out on people of all ages.

Among those checks, several individuals were identified with previously undiagnosed atrial fibrillation and other abnormal heart rhythms. Because the cardiothoracic team was on site, urgent follow-up could be arranged directly, either through the person’s GP or by organising specialist referrals.

Those numbers represent real people who might

otherwise have carried on unaware of a serious condition, increasing their risk of stroke or heart failure. That success has set an ambitious goal for 2026: screening 5000 people over the four days of Fieldays.

Atrial fibrillation is one of the most common heart rhythm conditions, affecting nearly one in four people over the age of 40. Many people have no symptoms, which is why it is often described as a “silent” condition. Left undetected, it significantly increases the risk of stroke and other complications, yet early detection can make a real difference.

Sometimes all it takes is a simple pulse or rhythm check to raise the first red flag.

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That simplicity is what makes Fieldays such a powerful setting. A few minutes at the Health Hub can prompt potentially life‑saving follow‑up.

The Fieldays stall is staffed entirely by volunteers from across the cardiac service, including nurses, surgeons, perfusionists, and electrophysiology specialists from the cardiac catheterisation lab.

“Beyond the screenings, the team values the conversations just as much, answering questions about heart health, prevention, and lifestyle,” says Abercrombie.

Fieldays is about more than numbers. It is about connection, trust, and practicality and delivering healthcare locally.

Farming excellence celebrated

Two sets of awards this month celebrated excellence across the sector and recognised farmers at different stages of their careers. Mary Anne Gill wraps up the awards.

Cambridge dairy assistant manager Levi Wesford has been named the 2026 Waikato dairy trainee of the year, highlighting a strong Waipā showing at this year’s Waikato Dairy Industry Awards.

The 20‑year‑old milks 220 cows on a 100‑hectare property near Cambridge and was recognised for his focus on efficiency, use of technology and commitment to developing his skills within the dairy industry.

165‑hectare property in Pukeatua, where she milks 465 cows.

Third place in the dairy trainee category went to Renee Teers, 23, a farm assistant on Acacia Farms’

Wesford, who did not come from a farming background, said the awards had played a key role in building confidence and industry connections.

“The awards are a great opportunity to network with rural professionals and leading farmers,” he said.

“I want to set myself up with the skills to run my own business and eventually my own farm.”

Waipā success at the dairy awards was complemented by a standout result for neighbouring Ōtorohanga, with Annie Gill named Waikato dairy manager of the year.

The 24‑year‑old manages a 56‑hectare dairy farm near Ōtorohanga and took out the prestigious title at the annual awards dinner held in Cambridge. Judges praised her strong leadership, technical capability and clearly defined pathway toward future progression.

Judges also highlighted Gill’s strong financial literacy, structured career planning and passion for stock work

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and breeding.

“I’ve always had a shared passion for pedigree cows with my Dad, and I’m lucky enough to live that passion every day,” Gill said.

“I love genetics, breeding and seeing our stock do well for other people.”

Gill has set her sights on becoming a sharemilker within the next two years, with plans to build equity through the sale of Holsteins.

Third place in the dairy manager category went to George Eaddy, who works for Kevin and Cherie van der Poel on their 95‑hectare farm at Ōhaupō, milking 390 cows.

The Waikato Dairy Industry Awards saw Glenn and Georgie van Heuven of Matamata named Waikato share farmers of the year, alongside the presentation of multiple merit awards across management, sustainability and innovation categories. Excellence across the sector was also recognised at the Waikato Regional Ballance Farm Environment Awards, held in Hamilton.

Noel and Lorraine Fox of Ōtorohanga were recognised with both the Livestock Farm Award and the Sustainability and Stewardship Award, acknowledging their environmental leadership and on‑farm practices.

Luke Campion of Hopehill

Farm, Cambridge, won the Risk Management Award, while North Waikato sheep and beef farmers Jon and Fiona Sherlock were named overall winners, recognised for their strong combination of profitability, innovation and environmental stewardship.

Waikato Dairy Industry Awards – Share Farmer: Winner – Georgie & Glenn van Heuven (Matamata); runner-up – Deependra Parajuli (Waitoa); third –Emma Walton & Jared Van Tiel (Puketaha).

Dairy Manager: Winner –Annie Gill (Ōtorohanga); runner-up – Danielle Brown (Morrinsville); third – George Eaddy (Ōhaupō). Dairy Trainee: Winner –Levi Wesford (Cambridge); runner-up – Abigail McLean (Morrinsville); third – Renee Teers (Pukeatua).

Waikato Ballance Farm Environment Awards: Jon and Fiona Sherlock (Otorohaea), Noel and Lorraine Fox (Ōtorohanga), Willy and Keely Muir (Waiuku), Luke Campion (Cambridge).

Volunteering call

Cambridge retiree Peter Fisher is one of the many volunteers helping power Fieldays by contributing his time and experience to New Zealand’s largest agricultural event.

He and other volunteers continue a 58 year tradition built on community support.

A former seed industry specialist, Fisher has volunteered at Fieldays for the past seven years. He first signed up in 2018 during the event’s 50th anniversary, working in the New Zealand International Business Centre, and now supports the mobility parking area at Mystery Creek during the fourday event.

“I had always enjoyed coming to Fieldays during my working life and wondered what it would be like to volunteer,” says Fisher.

“I had good knowledge in the seed industry and an interest in agriculture, and I felt I could add value.”

Volunteering has been as much about people as it has been about agriculture.

“I enjoyed meeting people from across the world, all coming to Fieldays at the bottom of the world to do business,” he says.

“Volunteering is a good social thing to do, enabling you to give back to the community. You make lifelong friends.”

Last year, 151 volunteers contributed their time to Fieldays, and the New Zealand National Fieldays Society is now seeking new volunteers to join returning team members for this year’s event, to be held in June.

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3/39 Maungakawa Road $1,550,000 12:30-1:00PM

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11 Rose Leigh Drive PBN 1:00-1:30PM 12A Alpers Ridge BEO $995,000 1:00-1:30PM

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27 Stafford Street

SALE Saturday 21st March 8am - 3pm. 339 Hautapu Road, Cambridge. CASH ONLY. Power, hand and vintage tools. Tandem trailer, boat and more.

You left us, so suddenly, just a year ago, to ride the highways and byways of heaven. No farewell words were spoken, no time to say goodbye, you were gone before we knew it, and only God knows why. We miss you, and love you forever. Mum, Dad, Joanna, Brendon and Andrew

COUNSELLOR

Kainga Aroha Community House in Te Awamutu is seeking an experienced Counsellor for 8 hours per week with possible flexible hours. Start around the end of April 2026 with some training beforehand. Contact office@ka.org.nz for further information of the role and application closing date.

If you have the ‘write stuff’… report for action

Good Local Media has vacancies in its reporting team – and one position is at the King Country News.

Good Local Media is an independently owned community newspaper business with a passion for serving its readers and advertisers. The publications it produces are the King Country News, King Country Farmer, Te Awamutu News, Cambridge News, Waikato Business News, and Bay of Plenty Business News.

We are looking for a community minded writer who wants to share stories. The role will suit an experienced journalist who will be based in the northern King Country – but we would also like to hear from exceptional candidates who are new to the industry and can learn quickly. For someone willing to learn, full on the job training will be provided by experienced journalists working within the business.

Our next reporter will be a keen follower of news who takes an interest in community affairs – from school events to local body politics.

This is a role which requires initiative, communication and planning skills. The successful candidate will be a self-starter capable of producing a wide range of fresh stories

Applicants for this position must have New Zealand residency or a valid New Zealand work visa. You will need a reliable vehicle and a clean driver’s licence.

Ifyouthinkyouhave“thewritestuff”wewanttohearfrom you.

Application close date: Monday March 30, 2026. If this sounds like the role for you, please email your C.V. and letter of application to Roy Pilott, Good Local Media Ltd on editor@goodlocal.nz

WILLOUGHBY, Donald Edward (Don) – Don passed away peacefully on Friday 13 March 2026 after a short illness. Loved husband of Rae for 63 years. A loving father of Kim and Glenn. Adored Popsy of Nick, Connagh, Shay, Pietta. A memorial service to celebrate Don’s life will be held at Raleigh Street Christian Centre, 24 Raleigh Street, Cambridge on Saturday 21 March at 2pm. The family have requested in lieu of flowers for people to please make a donation to Cambridge Tree Trust in Don’s memory. Kiwibank 389005-0635102-01. Dad has run his last race, and we are so lucky that he ran it on his terms and crossed the line calmly, pain free and with grace. We hope the snapper bite and you rest well Popsy.

BUNN, Shirley May –Passed away suddenly in Waikato Hospital on the 12th of March 2026. Aged 86 years. Dear wife to the late Reginald. Loved mother and mother-in-law to Glenys & Peter, Trevor, the late Sandra and Michael, Rhonda and Ben. Much loved grandmother to six grandchildren and two great grandchildren. At Shirley's request a private farewell has been held. Messages to the “Bunn” Family can be sent c/- 3 Hallys Lane, Cambridge 3434 or in Shirley’s online tribute book at www.grinters. co.nz

GUSSEY, Thea Margarete – Passed away peacefully on 11 March 2026, aged 79. Loved mother to Maria, Georgina and Lance, grandmother to Chloe, Dannii, Siena, Josh, Sam, Riley, Antonia, Boston and Ayla and friend to many.

Back gardening with her late husband Ron, she’s forever in our hearts. A celebration of Thea's life will be held at her home, 146 French Pass Road, Cambridge tomorrow, Friday 20 March at 1:00pm.