Cambridge News | May 28, 2026

Long to tower over us

“Whilst we live in straightened times, some things are worth saving for posterity.”

Those words, provided by Peter Fulton, summed up the Cambridge Water Tower Group’s response to a Waipā District Council decision last week to save rather than demolish a piece of the town’s history.

The group formed after it became evident the tower was on borrowed time.

Waipā mayor Mike Pettit said when council consulted with the community in 2024 the estimated strengthening cost for the tower was $6 million – “a figure that made removal the more realistic option”.

“Since then, our staff and engineers have worked hard to find a viable solution for restoration, and that work has paid off,” he said

following the announcement of a summer restoration.

The council will look for outside funding to help pay for the project.

At the time of the $6 million refurbishment estimate, the cost of knocking down the tower was put at $810,000.

The future of the tower has been in doubt because of its vulnerability in the event of an earthquake and a 2014 assessment which found it met just 25 per cent – subsequently reduced to 20 per cent - of building standards.

The decision to launch the $2.5 million restoration has its detractors, and they formed a queue last week on social media.

By Monday the council announcement has promoted more than 250 responses to its website.

The critics variously argued the council was overlooking the fact that residents had supported a demolition plan, that money should be put towards a third bridge or to pay off debt, it was a vanity project, an eyesore – and the project should be privately funded.

Between sarcastic comments was one suggestion for a rate revolt against the council - “if we all refuse to pay rates they’d think again”.

The Te Awamutu Residents and Ratepayers Association reported “another behind closed doors decision excluding the people”.

But opposition to the work was countered by residents who suggested those new to the area would struggle to see the tower’s heritage value and the tower and the cross by the Te Koo Utu gates

were “part of our DNA”.

The 24 metres high and 21-metre circular structure was built in 1902 with handmade bricks and is a registered Category Two heritage building.

Heritage New Zealand has called it a rare example of a brick water tower and an impressive landmark.

The tower will be restored and earthquake-strengthened next summer. The council’s Finance and Corporate Committee directed staff to seek external funding to help offset the expected costs.

The committee approved progressing a contract with Hamilton-based engineering specialists Surfprep Limited to carry out detailed design and strengthening works. It is planned to retain the existing water tank.

Pettit said it had been a difficult decision as there were strong views on both sides.

The outcome reflected “a pragmatic path forward”.

“The cost has come down significantly, and when you weigh that against the heritage value and the complexity and potential cost of obtaining a demolition consent, strengthening is clearly the right call.”

The project will involve an internal reinforced concrete shell bonded to the inside face of the brick wall, mechanical anchors and micro-pile foundations and an exterior maintenance programme. It will be the first significant maintenance for the tower, one of only two of its kind left in the country.

maryanne@goodlocal.nz

House teams pull together

By Viv Posselt

The 10th anniversary Marathon Row fundraiser for Cambridge Community House (CCH) brought in a record $11,675, almost doubling the $6000 raised last year.

Delighted CCH manager Daniel Harrison – who has been in the job since early March, just weeks before the Marathon Row was held – said the 2026 goal was to top the one million plus metres achieved last year.

“We more than doubled that in Cambridge alone, with another 50 plus rowers on 21 ergs in Newcastle, Australia, adding another 900km to total over three million for the day,” he said. “The growth reflects both the increasing community involvement and the strong leadership behind the event.”

This was the first year the event had been run at local gyms – Strength Nation Gym, and F45 Training Cambridge. Strength Nation’s Cam Woods and Sharn O’Neill, who were involved in 2025, said the fundraiser aligned with their commitment to community causes, and F45’s Paul Cooke – on board for the first time this year – said it had been a “brilliant” event for all concerned.

The fundraising event is the brainchild of Cambridge Rowing Club member, head coach at RowPT, and Juice Plus partner, Ger Sheehan.

A point of difference this year was that there was simultaneous rowing across multiple locations – including other sites around New Zealand and remotely via Zoom throughout New Zealand and offshore.

Community support came from several sources, including students and alumni from both Cambridge High and St Peter’s Cambridge schools, elite rowers from clubs in Hamilton and Cambridge, police and fire crew members, the Kenpo Karate team, and children inspired by their parents.

Also lending support was Wel Networks’ Dan Coffey, Cambridge community man Kevin Burgess (MNZM), and St Peter’s School Cambridge Alumni Association chair David Wybourne who was persuaded to enter the fundraiser by Ger Sheehan. Both Dan and David succeeded in rowing the marathon on an erg in under three hours.

Daniel Harrison said the money raised will support CCH’s frontline services, including the provision of counselling and emotional

Arborists and arbour risks

This week I’d like to begin with a word of caution. Although doortodoor sales are far less common these days, police continue to receive reports of concerning behaviour from travelling tradespeople, most often arborists.

Last week we were notified of a man who approached two elderly residents demanding payment for tree pruning work neither had requested nor authorised. When they refused, his behaviour became more threatening. Such transient operators are often unqualified, uninsured, and difficult to hold accountable. It is best to avoid them. Reputable arborists do not solicit for work in this manner. They provide formal quotes, schedule work in advance, and make payment terms clear without requiring any payment upfront. If you are approached by a travelling arborist, you are under no obligation to entertain their offer, and if their behaviour becomes intimidating or you feel unsafe, please call 111.

Secondly, I also want to remind drivers about safely making way for emergency vehicles. While recently responding under lights and sirens along Victoria Street, I encountered a range of reactions from those ahead. Many drivers correctly pulled to the left, but some moved right, creating unnecessary confusion, while others appeared unaware of my patrol car being

behind them at all. Whether it’s police, fire, or ambulance, the rule is the same. Always move promptly to the left so the emergency vehicle can pass safely on your right. Maintaining awareness of the vehicles around you whenever travelling on the road helps ensure everyone can respond safely to the actions of others and changing conditions.

Finally, last Friday afternoon Cambridge staff responded to a report of a recidivist shoplifter at Woolworths. The male offender from Hamilton was quickly located and arrested. He was found to also be wanted for six further thefts across the Waikato and to have been breaching court release conditions. He therefore faced a total of seven charges in court and has been remanded in custody.

In Te Awamutu, a female was arrested following a family harm incident last weekend and has appeared in court on associated charges. A young person was also arrested after failing to stop for police and engaging in dangerous driving. He will be appearing in youth court.

In the last week both Cambridge and Te Awamutu had one driver each who was found driving with excess breath alcohol. Both face associated charges in court.

support, financial mentoring and practical assistance when life becomes overwhelming.

“The need for support continues to grow,” he said. “With Cambridge’s growing populations and ongoing economic pressures, demand for these services is increasing. Every donation helps ensure this support remains available to anyone in Cambridge who needs it.”

Vilagrad's gold

Vilagrad Wines’ 2025 Pinot Gris has been awarded a Gold Medal at the International Wine & Spirit Competition in London. The event is regarded as one of the world’s most respected wine competitions and attracts more than 12,000 entries from over 90 countries.

“This is the Olympics of wine competitions,” said Jacob Nooyen, winemaker and grape grower at Vilagrad Winery in Ngahinapouri.

“To be recognised at this level places our Pinot Gris among the very best in the world.”

“I’m absolutely buzzing,” Nooyen added. “The news is still sinking in. Receiving this award is one of the greatest accolades you can achieve as a winemaker.”

Vilagrad Winery has earned more than 120 awards over the years, including a Silver Medal for its Pinot Gris at the same event in 2022 — a year in which no gold medals were awarded in the category.

Briefs…

Castles resigns

Waikato Thoroughbred Racing chief executive

Andrew ‘Butch’ Castles will retire from his role for health reasons after a six-year tenure with the club. His last day will be June 30. He played an instrumental role in the successful merger of Waikato, Cambridge and Waipā racing clubs to form Waikato Thoroughbred Racing, helping create a unified organisation positioned to future-proof the region’s racing infrastructure, assets and long-term viability. He also helped drive the Waikato Greenfield development project, further strengthening the club’s long-term future.

Rural meetings

The Cambridge Community Board will host this year’s Cambridge rural tour starting on June 22. “We will be getting the mayor and deputy mayor and key staff in front of farmers and ratepayers with two on farm meetings, one in Roto-oRangi and one on the north side of town,” board member Andrew Myers told The News. Issue for discussions will include rates, council amalgamation, and support for the rural community.

Movie debut

Cambridge produced and directed film The Tavern - which features scenic highlights from around the town including the Raceway and the former Masonic Hotel – has been picked up by the TVNZ free to air platform from next week.

Director and resident Matt Hicks donated several of the beer cans shown in the movie to Cambridge Museum this week.

Tag time

Waikato District Council is switching from plastic to metal dog tags to reduce costs and cut plastic waste. Regulatory Services Manager, Customer Services, Rochelle Deane said the new tags are designed to last the lifetime of the dog.

Councils and thinking big

By Roy Pilott

A Waikato super council, for want of a better description, will inevitably be one of the options put to the Government by its August 9 deadline – but it doesn’t have to be the only one.

Waipā district councillors have decided a single Waikato unitary authority is their preferred option for further exploration. The Waikato Regional Council has taken the same view.

Ōtorohanga and Waitomo councillors held talks last week and were on the same page in terms of those districts joining forces –illustrated by a photo of the two sets of councillors and mayors John Robertson and Rodney Dow shoulder to shoulder.

But the Government’s drive for change is geared to thinking big as it maintains pressure on local bodies to improve efficiencies and cap rates.

The government is anticipating proposals which see multiple councils teaming up. That’s already been achieved in Waikato where two water entities

have been established.

So Waikato boundaries could cut across the region, encompass it completely – or remain open in the south where there has been a call for the inclusion of Taumarunui in any model involving northern King Country councils.

Resource Management Act Reform minister Chris Bishop and Local Government minister Simon Watts told all councils on May 5 about head starts and back stops.

‘Head Start’ is a voluntary approach where two or more councils submit an amalgamation proposal to central government. ‘Back Stop’ is a process for those councils that don’t submit a proposal where central government will determine how amalgamation will occur.

The August 9 deadline left councils at least partially snookered in terms of public consultation – it is inevitable that many of those conversations will be held after recommendations are made.

Labour leader Chris Hipkins says he is open to local government

consolidation and streamlining but is not convinced by top-down government approaches. That said, he was at the forefront of the merger of the country’s 16 polytechs to form Te Pūkenga in 2019, a programme subsequently unravelled by the National led government.

The Waikato Mayoral Forum, led by Hamilton’s Tim Macindoe, is not scheduled to meet the district’s iwi forum before the August deadline, but it is anticipated an earlier meeting will be proposed.

The issue has not sparked wide public debate, but it’s inevitable there will be cries of foul from rural communities if they feel they are being sucked into an Auckland style super city model.

That point is not lost on Macindoe who says the forum must look at how any plan put to the government protects the “local voice”.

He was in Ōtorohanga where the mayoral forum was hosted this week for further discussions and acknowledges a lot of work has still to be done

Waipā’s Mike Pettit said

councils across the country were facing significant change and Waipā wanted to help shape the future of local government in the Waikato rather than wait for decisions to be imposed –the ‘back stop’.

“We know change is coming, and we want to lead the conversation — not have a model imposed on us,” he said.

His council would continue to test unitary the option against alternatives and assess the impacts.

Pettit said the timeframe was tight and the issues were complex but Waipā entered the discussions from a position of strength as a high-performing, highgrowth district.

“A single unitary authority could provide more coordinated planning, infrastructure delivery and investment across the Waikato region, by bringing regional and district functions together into one organisation,” he said.

“Decisions affecting communities need to continue to be made close to those communities. Whatever the model, representation for Waipā communities must be maintained.”

Auckland has operated as a super council for 16 years. Eight regional and district council voted to hold hands in 2010

The pilot who helps kiwi fly

By Michelle Lachmann

Former pilot Mike Panther is still flying high - as a volunteer on the ground, protecting Kiwi at Sanctuary Mountain Maungatautari.

Panther, 70, a former pilot and instructor, is among the 200 volunteers who help keep the sanctuary on Tari Road in Waipa operating.

Chief executive Helen Hughes told The News the help of volunteers was crucial to the Sanctuary’s operations.

The sanctuary “simply wouldn’t operate without them”.

Panther started volunteering with predator trapping and

feeding birds at the sanctuary in 2024, after moving to Cambridge from Auckland where he retired from a 50-year career in aviation.

He said his love of planes was matched with his love of helping protect a bird as iconic as the kiwi, and other native birds including the takahe and hihi.

“I very quickly moved from never having seen a kiwi in the wild to being trained in the art of safe handling and capture of the birds.”

He volunteered on average about 25 hours a month, keeping fit by walking about 50km around the sanctuary. Helping with the translocation of kiwi and the annual kiwi muster had

been highlights.

“I was initially worried as to whether my physical ability would keep pace, but even though a day on the main mountain is like five hours as a pilot, it’s an invigorating experience,” Panther said.

The volunteering was immensely rewarding, especially when he saw the pressure paid staff were under to keep the sanctuary successfully operating.

Hughes said the sanctuary’s volunteers were from all walks of life and as young as 16 years old, up to 80 years.

They were a crucial part of the team, bringing a diverse skillset with them, she said.

‘Scapegoats’ by design

By Michelle Lachmann

Dave Wilkinson says truckies are a scapegoat for poor traffic planning.

The Cambridge truckie and businessman known as Wilky told The News he sympathised with residents frustrated by heavy truck traffic and noise at the Cook St and Shakespeare St roundabout.

However, he said truck drivers are also dealing with traffic design problems outside their control, while simply doing their jobs and supporting their households.

Wilkinson, a truck driver for 50 years and owner of Challenge Service Station in Cambridge, said he was fed up with council staff making decisions “while sitting at a desk” rather than listening to people with practical local knowledge.

“I think they are just impractical,” he said.

Wilkinson said trucks had long been part of life in Cambridge and Waipā. They were in more in demand than ever, with increased freight from housing, supermarkets, logging, dairy and roading.

He said the Cook St and Shakespeare St roundabout sat on a direct route between Taranaki and Tauranga, and traffic was increasing because of growth at the Port of Tauranga, demand from Taranaki industries and logging from Kāwhia and Taumarunui.

He acknowledged some truck drivers used the route instead of State Highway 3 because it was quicker, saving time and money.

The obvious solution was to remove the black-and-yellow raised prongs and widen the turning radius so heavy vehicles could get through without excessive noise, Wilkinson said.

He warned council staff about truck noise, turning and visibility issues when the roundabout was being designed in 2023 and took then deputy mayor Liz Stolwyk and a Waipā District Council engineer for a ride in a Kenworth truck to prove his point, but believed his concerns were ignored, he said.

He raised the concerns again with Waipā district councillors last month, following dozens of public complaints about increased heavy truck traffic and noise in Cambridge.

A 111-signature petition from Cambridge residents was presented to the council’s Service Delivery Committee last month asking for night limits, road maintenance, speed reduction and ongoing engagement. It was signed by residents of Cambridge Road, Pope Terrace, Cook Street and Shakespeare Street. Seven residents of Golf Road, Te Awamutu also signed the petition.

Waipā District Council transportation manager Bryan Hudson said feedback from the

New Patient Offer

trucking sector was received at the time the roundabout was redesigned.

He said the main concerns related to the position of the raised pedestrian crossing and whether pedestrians might be in a driver’s blind spot.

In practice, Hudson said, that

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had not been an issue. The crossing was operating safely, there had been no near misses, and a police crash data review showed no crashes linked to the changes. No formal noise or vibration monitoring had been carried out at the roundabout before or after it was built, he said.

But council staff and an independent safety auditor had observed a 22-metre truck and trailer combination navigate the roundabout without mounting the speed humps when following the intended line.

Wilkinson said that did not reflect reality.

He retired in December 2025, but until then, drove a 20-metre articulated truck through Cambridge. It was not always practical or possible to navigate the roundabout without excess noise, he said.

“In reality, humans can’t drive like a computer does,” he said.

Signs advising pedestrians to give way to traffic were no longer there, having been damaged or removed.

A list of transport options to improve traffic management in the district is due to be presented to the council’s Strategic Planning and Policy Committee next week. The work is part of Cambridge Connections, a council project looking at heavy vehicles travelling through and across town, Cambridge’s river crossings and the impact of rapid growth on the transport network.

Wilkinson hoped the Southern Links transport project – between Hamilton south and Waikato Expressway at Tamahere - would reduce heavy truck traffic through Cambridge by giving trucks a more direct route.

John Bertrand Collectables

Are Buying in Cambridge and Waikato Next Week

Once again, the gold and collectables buyers from Wellington company John Bertrand Collectables are visiting Cambridge and Waikato next week. Mr Tony Grant from the company says, “If you are downsizing or wanting to dispose of things because they no longer serve any purpose to you or your family bring them in”. “Next week will be a great opportunity to have any items you want to sell assessed by our buyers” said Mr Grant. Particularly wanted are Gold and Silver (in any of its forms) and Collectables such as Coins, Banknotes, War Medals, Old Wind-up Watches and other interesting Small Collectables.

“We are keen buyers, especially of the items in the list below” said Mr Grant. “Nothing is too small for our consideration. We are just as happy buying 1 item as we are buying 1,000 items” he said. The buyers will be in Cambridge and Waikato next week. (see details below). As Tony Grant points out “If you are in doubt about any items you may wish to sell, bring them along for an instant appraisal.”

Gold & Silver At Very High Prices

Over the last couple of years, we have seen a sharp increase in the price of precious metals. The gold price in New Zealand is still at historically high levels. So, gather up all your unwanted items and make an appointment to see the buyers. Tony Grant says “We can buy gold items in all forms, including Jewellery (Rings, Chains, Brooches etc.), Coins (Sovereigns and the like), Alluvial (River Gold), virtually anything, even Gold Teeth! We also need all Sterling Silver including Cups, Tea Services, Cutlery and Old Coins” he said.

Interesting Small Collectables Wanted

The buyers from John Bertrand (Collectables) Ltd, visiting Cambridge and Waikato next week, are happy to look at any interesting items, for example vintage pocket and wristwatches such as Rolex, Men’s Omega, Breitling and gold watches etc. Also wanted, pre 1950’s picture postcards, Maori and Pacific artefacts, old fountain pens and other small antique or historical items.

“If you have something unusual which you would like to sell, please bring it into one of our venues, we would like the chance to at least have a look at it” said Tony Grant, buyer for the Company. “We will consider anything which may be of interest to a collector” he said.

Some Big Dollars in Early Banknotes

Early New Zealand Banknotes dated before 1932 are currently fetching big money! This is according to Mr Tony Grant, author of the John Bertrand New Zealand Coin & Banknote Catalogue. Mr Grant is in Cambridge and Waikato next week on a buying trip for John Bertrand (Collectables) Ltd and would be very keen to see any of these issues. “We will pay at least $300 for any undamaged Ten Shilling or One Pound banknote

from a New Zealand trading bank dated 1932 or before.

Denominations of five pounds and higher would be worth from $700. “Any banknote dated prior to 1900 would be worth at least $1000” said Mr Grant. Also purchased are any Reserve Bank of New Zealand pre-decimal issues, especially 50 Pound notes. All overseas banknotes are also wanted, especially early Pacific Island issues.

Collectors Need War Medals

Currently, throughout NZ and the world there is a big demand by collectors for war medals. These cover all wars right through from the New Zealand Land Wars and the Boer War, to the First and Second World Wars and the later Korea and Vietnam conflicts. New Zealand Servicemen and Women first served overseas in the Boer War in South Africa around 1900 and the war medals awarded for this service are needed by the buyers, as are any other Medals from early New Zealand and the New Zealand Wars. General service medals from both the First and Second World Wars will also be purchased, but as can be imagined these were awarded in fairly large numbers. “If a group of medals has any special award for bravery such as the Military Medal, Military or Flying Cross or other medals for Distinguished Conduct or Meritorious Service, these can add great value to a group” stated Mr Tony Grant, buyer for John Bertrand (Collectables) Ltd. “Many families have old medals, some dating back to early Imperial days, that they are not sure what to do with. These are better off in the hands of collectors who will look after them. We will be happy to look at any war medals whatsoever, just bring them in to venues” he said.

Old Coins Can Toss Up a Rarity

Do you have a bunch of old coins sitting around in your drawers and cupboards? You just never know what rarities may be lurking there. The advice from Tony Grant from John Bertrand (Collectables) Limited is to “bring them in and let us have a look”. “No need to sort anything out just bring them in ‘as is’ and please don’t clean them! We can go through coin accumulations and collections fairly quickly” he said. The buyers are particularly keen to purchase pre-1946 New Zealand Silver Coins and World Silver Coins. “In any event we will buy All Coins,” said Mr Grant.

Looking for tales of a doctor

By Jesse Wood

When late Te Awamutu doctor

Lindsay Rogers returned to New Zealand 80 years ago, he brought with him clay tablets containing some of the oldest written records.

Now Cuneiform Australia New Zealand (Canz) is working to translate and understand the Sumerian clay tablets – dating back more than 5000 years.

Cuneiform is the earliest known writing system and was developed by the Sumerians, in what today is Iraq, around 3200BC.

The Canz project aims to translate and publish every cuneiform text held in Australian and New Zealand collections.

Researchers hope to publish a book next year detailing the collection Rogers donated to the Otago Museum. It is one of the most significant of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere.

At the same time Wellingtonbased Dan Armstrong, originally from near Taumarunui but who

grew up in Te Awamutu, is piecing together Rogers’ story for a biography to be part of the book.

The longtime Te Awamutu community advocate learned Rogers’ story in the late 2010s and wants to hear more about him from Waipā residents.

Lindsay Rogers OBE is part of Te Awamutu’s walk of fame, and his name goes hand in hand with Te Awamutu College and the Rogers Charitable Trust.

Born in Dunedin in 1902, Rogers practiced medicine in the 1930s in and around Te Awamutu.

“At the time rural doctors travelled around their areas on bad roads and having to adapt to sorts of needs and issues,” Dan Armstrong said.

“In WWII, he was a surgeon in Northern Africa and did clandestine work in Yugoslavia and Asia.”

Rogers served with the British Royal Army Medical Corps and volunteered for special duty with the British Special Operations Executive. He was deployed to Yugoslavia to work with the Partisan forces led by

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dictator Josip Tito.

Rogers’ many experiences at war prompted him to write the memoir Guerilla Surgeon, first published in 1957 and republished as recently as 2024.

“Post-war saw a stint in Iraq teaching medicine and acquiring many antiquities,” Armstrong said.

A friend of Otago Museum director Harry Skinner, Rogers acquired many items, including the clay tablets, for the museum’s collections while in Iraq.

Rogers returned to Te Awamutu after 1950, started a family and farmed on Cambridge Road.

Longtime Waipā resident Doug Semmens and his twin brother Steve were born on Rogers’ Cambridge Rd farm on September 2, 1958, and their father George milked cows for Rogers.

The doctor drowned in New Caledonia in 1962 and after the death of his wife Isobel in 1989, the dairy farm was bequeathed to Te Awamutu College.

Rogers Charitable Trust was

formed in 1995 and the dairy farm sold in 2023. The proceeds from the sale are now managed by trustees.

Each year, interest generated from the fund is donated to Te Awamutu College for projects including school buildings and facilities, furniture, vehicles, student prizes, scholarships and uniform subsidies.

Dan Armstrong says he is keen

to hear from anyone who has any stories about Rogers, a “larger than life character” to share - suggesting there will still be a few locals who knew him in the 1950s and 1960s.

“I’ve spoken with some people already and I’m keen to hear more.” * Can you help? Email editor@ goodlocal.nz and put the words Lindsay Rogers in the subject line.

Taking a stand

By Murray Smith, Bridges Church

I’ve long admired the paintings of 20th century artist and illustrator, Norman Rockwell.

His prolific artworks chronicle American life spanning two world Wars, the Korean War and the Vietnam War. Rockwell’s characterful, whimsical, almost photoreal paintings famously capture ordinary uncomplicated people doing ordinary things in life from a bygone era when life was simpler. He also captured provocative and jarring images inspired by racial divides and protest movements.

One records an event which Rockwell attended in his own town. Rockwell depicted a man standing up in a hall at a public meeting. This man was a hardworking farmer. Towards the end of the public gathering, he arose as a lone dissident to oppose a decision everyone else was in favour of.

Wearing a worn plaid shirt and suede jacket, he appears out of place among his more formally dressed neighbours, notably older men in suits. The painting is called Freedom of Speech and its purpose is clear - that everyone, regardless of social standing is entitled to free speech. The townspeople gave him ear, listening with respect, demonstrating a perfect example of democracy and free expression.

Studying the farmer’s earnest, open face as he pitches his point of view, I feel admiration for his courage to stand alone against other strong ‘pre-determined’ voices. The painting is celebrated for representing civil discourse and the right to voice an opinion in a respectful setting, even when in the minority.

In our generation with the erosion of social values and etiquette, it takes courage

to go against the stream. Getting mocked and cancelled can be a deterrent to many good people ‘standing up.’ And so they don’t. We’re all poorer for that. The 18th century Irish statesman and philosopher Edmund Burke is credited with stating, “The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing”.

It takes courage to stand up. But stand we must. Benign silence can be taken as indifference - and worse, assent. It’s said, “Those who stand for nothing will likely fall for anything…” and history confirms societies (our own included), being swept up in evil currents simply because too few ‘stood up’.

Maybe you once stood up to take a stand and were burned for ‘being counted’? Perhaps you determined you would never do that again. Or perhaps in hindsight you wish you had been stronger, more emphatic perhaps in making your point of view known? Where will you draw the line? At what point will you stand and find your voice to call ‘enough’ on an ethical issue whatever it be?

Here’s a rhetorical question from the Bible. “If the foundations be destroyed, what can the righteous do?” (Psalm 11:3) In violent times of crisis when core moral, legal, or societal structures crumble, when kindness, decency, justice and truth seem lost, we should not give up – rather, stand up. This begins on the inside of each one of us - the determination to be change agents - for goodness sake

Pressure under water

By Janine Krippner

Submarine eruptions – eruptions that occur below our oceans – are fascinating.

Volcanology has been learning a lot more about them in the past decade or so, but there is still so much we don’t know. This is an exciting area of research.

We do observe eruptions as they approach the surface and begin ejecting wet plumes of volcanic ash and steam, known as Surtseyan eruptions. However, very few eruptions in deeper water have been directly witnessed or recorded.

As of 2025, only 209 submarine eruptions have been directly observed in some way and another 136 have been detected remotely. That is a tiny fraction of what we have seen on land, and we cannot collect the same amount of data to understand them. This also means that when a submarine eruption is observed, it is incredibly valuable.

About 71 per cent of our gorgeous planet is covered by oceans, and volcanic landforms are abundant. There are many thousands of volcanic cones scattered across our seafloor. The majority of activity is “effusive”, meaning lava flows erupt from and spread outward from a vent.

“Explosive” activity does occur, but it is different to explosive volcanism on land. In the ocean, eruptions occur under pressure because of the enormous weight of water. On land, the rapid expansion of gas drives explosive eruptions, blowing apart or fragmenting rock into volcanic ash.

Because of the increasing pressure as you add more water above a volcano, when the water is deeper, how the volcano erupts changes.

People out at sea sometimes see signs

THE DENTURE MAN

of volcanic activity that include floating pumice, the smell of sulphur, or muddylooking water. Seismic networks can detect shaking that is involved in eruptions on the sea floor. Sometimes, scientific research expeditions have been lucky enough to come across recent volcanic activity when cameras or submersibles are sent down below. Sadly, one sign of activity is the death of the incredible creatures that live on the seafloor and thrive around hot volcanic vents.

While most submarine eruptions occur without us having any idea, they can still pose a hazard. Critical submarine infrastructure, including internet cables, cross volcanic regions and can be damaged. We saw this happen with the 2022 Hunga Tonga–Hunga Ha’apai eruption. Much of society relies on internet cables, and most of that travels below oceans.

When growing volcanic cones reach the ocean surface, eruptions can become highly explosive. If this occurs near populations, steam-rich pyroclastic flows can travel across the water and impact communities. If an eruption releases large volumes of gas bubbles into the water column, it can lower the density of the surrounding water. If an unlucky boat travels over that spot, it can sink. We also rely on global shipping and marine transport, and we do not have a global monitoring and warning network like we do for volcanic ash and aviation. Submarine eruptions are scientifically fascinating, and it is also critical to understand them from a hazards and impacts perspective.

Honour for Judith

AGE OF REASON

Showing off

By Peter Carr

As I look out of my window this lovely Sunday morning I marvel at the myriad colours before me. Many of them from golden and red to brown leaves now settled on the ground had been windblown from their lofty tree perches.

There are some who abhor this time of the year as they have to sweep their drives lest the leaves slide under their garage doors and navigate around mounds of leaves that start to clog the rainwater gutter drains.

Need we remind those folk that Cambridge is the Town of Trees and Champions, well renowned and respected for both those titular facets? Is it just too hard for about four weeks of the year to lean on the broom or drag the rake to affect a tidier façade to your property?

we ensuring that those pleasure-seeking visitors are suitably and fully aware of what lies beyond the boundaries of Victoria Street?

Festival spot

Megan Goldsman’s short film Bodies of Water has been selected for next month’s Baaria Film Festival in Bagheria, Sicily.

The film had its premiere in Te Awamutu at the Misty Flicks Film Festival last November and was awarded Best Screenplay.

“The Regent’s Theatre was where I saw my first ever movie. So it feels really special to have had my own film play there,” Goldsman, who grew up in Cambridge, said.

The story, written by Goldsman, and directed by Shelley Waddams, follows the meeting between as estranged mother and daughter- and highlights the intricacies of maternal relationships.

A rugby milestone

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A wee bit of energy and public spirit goes a long way.

Which brings me to visitors to our lovely town. Some of them, would you believe, come to see the trees. That they possibly cause a shortness of car parking from time to time is to be expected. That the retailers and food providers need those people from out-oftown is clear evidence that the population of Cambridge alone does not fill the tills sufficiently for them to remain in business.

Which brings me to welcoming those visitors. And, importantly, how we explain the delights of not only CBD-centred attractions but the wider net that is centred upon Cambridge. Lake Karapiro, Maungatautari, Mystery Creek, Velodrome, Sculpture Park, Lake Te Koo Utu – the list goes on. How are

Well, a visibly situated and seven days a week attractive visitor centre would be a starter. There have been a number of iterations of such an information centre for many years initially financed to a greater extent by the Waipa District Council. Whether councils should be tipping ratepayer funds into the tourism pot would prompt be a lengthy discussion. It appears that in Cambridge those days are past. Latterly the excellent and well-positioned facility (with paid staff) at the Town Hall gave way to an almost invisible single desk with reduced services at the velodrome. That too has, sadly, closed.

Take a look at the attractively uniformed ‘Can I Help You’ people at Auckland airport. All volunteers. All retired who are proud to enjoy ‘selling’ the attractions of their city. Is it possible that such a being could be created here at a high-visible spot, seven days a week with suitably interested and intelligent retirees? Who would coordinate such a venture? Is it worth investigating further? Would the retailers chip in to help the initial funding? Is there a key sponsor who would step forward?

So I am flying a kite. I make no apology. This is your town as well as mine and I am proud to be here and want it to prosper. The point is, do you?

Kihikihi, the second oldest rugby club in the Waikato, will celebrate its 140th anniversary from June 5-7.

“For our family, it’s not really a club. It’s home,” former Black Fern and Chiefs Manawa assistant coach Carla Hohepa told The News.

“We grew up watching our parents, our aunties and uncles play. It’s a place that we represent as part of our family.

The club was formed as a meeting at the Star Hotel on April 24, 1886.

Carla and younger sister Chyna represent their beloved club any chance they get.

Carla has represented Otago, Waikato, Chiefs Manawa, Black Ferns Sevens and the Black Ferns. Chyna is still turning out for the Manawa and Waikato and has also been a previous Black Ferns Sevens rep. Their parents Selwyn and Debbie have donned the Waikato kit too.

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Grounded in community: Shane Walsh’s commitment to Te Awamutu

Born and raised in Te Awamutu, Shane Walsh has always felt a strong connection to the community he now represents around the Council table

After leaving town in his early 20s to build a successful corporate career, Shane returned home wanting to give back to the community that helped shape him

Before being elected as a Te Awamutu and Kihikihi Ward Councillor and appointed to the Community Board, he was heavily involved in local organisations, serving as Chief Executive of the Te Awamutu Business Chamber, Chair of the Waipā Community Facilities Trust, and Chair of Destination Te Awamutu

Those roles gave him regular interaction with Council and insight into the issues people were most concerned about

A lot of people felt Council was becoming disconnected from ratepayers, particularly around costs,” Shane said “I wanted to help better align Council with the concerns of the community and ensure we’re delivering outcomes in the most affordable way possible ”

Shane’s Masters in Business Management and Administration, and strong business background, has helped him navigate the strong governance and financial side to the role

He has been impressed by the shared commitment among councillors to make a positive difference

“There’s a genuine desire around the table to improve things for the district We re a mixed group with different opinions, but that actually makes for a stronger and more diverse team ”

While Shane knows meaningful change in local government takes time, he is focused on creating momentum

“There’s no expectation that you can suddenly fix everything

Waipā's water services on track for July transfer overnight,” he said “But you can get the wheels moving in the right direction

He believes most ratepayers understand the financial pressures councils are facing

“There will always be external challenges that come up, things like fuel costs or economic pressures - so you focus on what you can control and keep making steady progress ”

Passionate about helping Te Awamutu thrive, Shane is particularly interested in projects that make the town more vibrant while also benefiting the wider Waipā district

One initiative he supports is the proposed Pirongia to Te Awamutu cycleway

“It ’s a project that delivers on multiple levels,” he said “It supports tourism, recreation, wellbeing and the local economy, while also creating stronger community connections ”

Outside Council, Shane has two sons, a daughter, and three grandchildren He enjoys hosting friends and family, walking his dog, and taking part in a men’s book club

What he values most about Waipā is its strong sense of community

“The cafes, local stores, the library, the pools - those shared spaces are what make Te Awamutu special,” he said “They add real value to people s lives and create a sense of connection ”

Looking ahead, Shane is focused on strengthening the relationship between Council and the community

“I want people to feel heard and know Council is listening,” he said If we can continue building that trust and making practical progress, then we’re heading in the right direction ”

Waipā District Council is on track to transfer its water and wastewater services to Waikato Waters Limited on July 1

Waikato Waters is a council-controlled organisation owned by six Waikato councils, including Waipā Bringing water services together across the region means better long-term planning, stronger investment, and more resilient infrastructure for communities like ours

For Waipā residents, day-to-day services will stay the same - water will keep running, and billing and customer contact remain with Council for now Stormwater is staying with Waipā District Council for 2026/27 Behind the scenes, Waikato Waters will take over management of drinking water and wastewater pipes, treatment plants and long-term planning

A total of 48 Waipā staff will transfer to Waikato Waters as part of the change, taking their local knowledge with them

More information is available at letstalk waipadc govt nz/waikato-waterslimited

King’s Birthday – what you need to know!

Recycling collections will continue as usual on King's Birthday, Monday, June 1

Our two libraries and Council offices in Te Awamutu and Cambridge along with our Te Whare Taonga o Te Awamutu Museum will be closed for the day

Crete: a soldier’s account

By Viv Posselt

Fifty-five minutes on a recently discovered family tape led Te Awamutu man Richard Cato on an emotional journey of his father’s experiences in World War Two, including in the 1941 Battle of Crete.

It also added much to last Saturday’s memorial service at the Te Awamutu RSA, held to commemorate the 85th anniversary of that operation, often described as one of the most dramatic battles of the Second World War.

The well-attended event

drew RSA leaders and members from around the North Island, among them RNZRSA district president Jon Broadley, Te Awamutu and Districts RSA president Daniel van der Hulst, Cambridge RSA president Graham Johns, and Hamilton RSA president Bruce Gillespie.

The event shifted to Te Awamutu RSA following the closure of Tauranga RSA, which has held annual commemorations of the Battle of Crete for some years.

Richard gave a presentation that included playing part of the taped messages recorded

by his father Sergeant Colin Cato. He also showed images of the area, some taken decades ago and others taken by Richard and his family when they visited Crete last year. They found they matched the geographical descriptions in his father’s tape.

Sgt Cato headed No. 3 Platoon of the 27th Machine Gun Battalion of the first echelon of the Second New Zealand Expeditionary Force. He fought in North Africa, then Greece and Crete.

The Battle of Crete began on the morning of May 20, 1941, when thousands of elite German paratroopers descended from the sky in what was said to be the first mainly airborne invasion in military history. For 12 days Greek and Commonwealth troops – the latter including New Zealanders, British and Australians – tried to repel the assault. Any attack had been predicted to come from the sea, and it was close to the beach that Colin was stationed.

Richard said the cost of the battle was massive.

“More than 1700 British, Commonwealth and Greek soldiers were killed, and 15,000 captured. There were 670 New Zealanders among

the dead, and 2180 Kiwi prisoners of war – that is in addition to the 1800 captured after the campaign ended in Greece,” he said. “More than 6000 Germans were killed or wounded and the German Airforce lost more than 350 aircraft.”

Among the Kiwis evacuated was Charles Upham and Alfred Hulme, both of whom won the Victoria Cross for their actions on Crete.

Once back in New Zealand, Colin was among 25 men who were selected to train troops at Trentham for an anticipated Japanese invasion. He later returned to farming in the Te Kuiti area, from where he originally enlisted.

Three years before he died in 1976, Colin recorded his wartime memories. When Richard acquired the old tapes his father had made, he found one of them hadn’t been restored because it began with music. Once it was processed, he found it contained his father’s accounts of his time in Greece and Crete.

In it, Colin said … “the sky behind me became black with planes coming from all directions … then the planes opened and the sky was full of parachutes. There were men dropping everywhere”.

Officiating Saturday’s

service was Cambridge’s Jim Goddin. He said, “as the years pass it has become more important that we gather like this to remember those who served”.

Down from Auckland for the event was Brian How, president of the 28 NZ (Māori) Battalion Auckland Association, and Papakura resident Kei Mitchell, who at 94 is believed to be among

the last surviving widows connected to the 28th Māori Battalion.

Among those who attended was Taranaki-King Country MP Barbara Kuriger. She told The News she visited Crete with several other politicians several years ago, and was struck by accounts from older villagers who remembered the invasion and remain grateful to the Kiwi soldiers.

Waipā premier sides win

By Jesse Wood

The Waipā sides in Waikato Club Rugby continued their strong seasons last weekend. Unbeaten teams still are Leamington in division 1A and Pirongia in division 1B. Pirongia division 1A and 1B teams had a bye week as they prepare for their King’s Birthday weekend 150th anniversary celebrations.

Hautapu, second in the premier men’s competition beat Fraser tech 65-12 in Hamilton. Player of the day Dylan Eti scored two tries. Konelio Burgess, Nathan Stephens and Rui Farrant were the other scorers. Fullback Patrick Hedley added two conversions.

Te Awamutu Sports beat Morrinsville Sports 29-14 at Albert Park. Front-rower Albert Nadan was among the try scorers in the four tries to two victory.

Hamilton Marist, 45-13 winners over Matamata remain top of the premier A table –but Hautapu, three points behind, have a game in hand.

First-placed premier B side Hautapu B won 43-26 against Tech B. Impressive winger Josh Brunger helped himself to three tries. Ihaka Harper-Dent, hooker Rory Blyth and Maraekaiti Nepia also crossed the line. Halfback Callum Beckett slotted five conversions and a penalty.

Te Awamutu Sports premier development won 45-26 against Morrinsville B. Sports right winger Alexander Creak scored a hat-trick, while Ben Mylchreest, Keiton MacDonald, Dylan Jeffries and first five-eighth George Poolman also crossed. Poolman added five conversions.

Te Awamutu College alumnus Brad Magon was one of Morrinsville B’s scorers.

The women’s premiership clash between Mel-tap (Melville-Hautapu combined) and Ōtorohanga saw the home side win 26-5 at Collins Road. It was a four tries to one victory

and Mel-tap fullback Keira Russell scored 11 of her team’s points.

Division 1A table toppers Leamington won 28-19 against Southern United in Tokoroa. Number 12 Jackson Neels crossed for two tries in South Waikato and Hirini Murfitt grabbed Leamington’s third. A penalty try and three Robert Day penalties rounded out the scoring for the visitors.

As they celebrated Liam Palaone’s 100th match, Ōhaupō were pipped 28-24 by Hinuera at Ōhaupō Memorial Park. The explosive Lance Elrick, Scott Thomas, Italia Tualaulelei and Queyst Michael-Tapu all got tries. Pivot Dean Fullerton added two conversions. In division 1B, Ōhaupō B won 22-12 against Hinuera B with help from a Ben Parrott double. Prop Stephen Rogers scored the third Ōhaupō B try. First five Dane Murphy added two conversions and a penalty off the tee. Leamington B lost 39-21 to Southern United B. Matthew Bullock was one of the three Leamington B try scorers, while Chevy Blue scored 21 points for Southern United B. In the women’s championship, Kihikihi won 54-17 against Pirongia at Kihikihi Domain. Valentine Tevita registered four tries for the home team, while Charlize Waters got a double. Rinoa Day slotted seven conversions. Fullback Sarah Moorhouse, openside flanker Georgia Packer and midfielder Emma Foss scored tries for the Pirongia women, while Amanda Laing kicked a two-pointer. In the under-21 division, Te Awamutu Sports took on fellow Waipā colts side Leamington at Albert Park. The home team won 39-32. Pirongia lost 36-24 to Thames Valley United in Paeroa. Sam Denize, halfback Connor Hill and Blake Buchanan were among the Pirongia colts’ scorers.

In the presidents grade, Pirongia Mountain Men beat Te Awamutu Marist Bushpigs 24-10 at Castleton Park.

AES – Where excellence and customer care is the norm

When it comes to getting your vehicle, truck, forklift or even your side-by-side serviced or repaired in Cambridge, you need look no further than Automotive Engineering Services (AES) Ltd.

The established company not only delivers quality diagnostics and repairs on a range of vehicles, but they also place a high value on providing exceptional customer service.

For the small team at AES – owner and head technician Stuart (Stu) Taylor, mechanical technician Bailey Haden, and o ce manager Jen Perkinson – client safety and satisfaction is at the forefront of the operation.

They will go above and beyond to make your experience with them the best it can possibly be. If needed, they will drive you to and from your home while your vehicle is being repaired or serviced, and they will talk you through your options to make sure the work they do is a ordable for you, with no hidden surprises in workshop.

With winter now set in, and a noticeable tightening in the economy, they are mindful of striking the right balance between safety and cost-e ectiveness. They urge customers to adhere to a good servicing schedule to avoid incurring additional costs down the line. Vehicles work less e ciently when you delay servicing, which means you end up using more oil and fuel, and are at risk of costly breakdowns. Keeping up to date with your vehicle’s tyres is equally important,

particularly if you are travelling on frosty roads.

Stu took over ownership of AES at the beginning of last year. He knew the 30-year-old business intimately, having worked there for over 15 years with previous owner Phillip Dove. It was a natural career progression for him, and he has been masterful in guiding a seamless transition. Customer feedback has been fantastic.

In addition, Stu has introduced a couple of service add-ons. He has brought in a full tyre service option for clients, with state-of-the-art equipment available to meet every requirement, and has designed, built and put into service a large purpose-built trailer, which means they can now add towing to what’s on o er at AES.

Those elements add to an already impressive list of services. AES covers all standard mechanical diagnostic and repair work, o ers excellent workmanship, and does light engineering work when needed on a wide range of vehicles, trucks and trailers. They also manage the complete WOF and COF process for you, taking your vehicle through a pre-check overview, driving it to and from its o cial check, and doing whatever repairs are necessary. AES is at the forefront of innovative, quality automotive service in Cambridge, where trust is key, and excellence isn’t an option – it’s the standard.

They can be found at 17 Carters Crescent (down the hill) and operate from 7.30am to 5pm weekdays.

Spotlight on Cambridge

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JOE’S GARAGE

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

Across 1. School subject (5)

4. Irritable (colloq) (6)

7. Vehicle (3)

8. Meeting plan (6)

9. Perfect world (6)

10. Securities market (5,8)

14. Terrible (5) 15. Quilt (5)

Last week

(5) 22. Apportion (5)

Across: 1. Trivia, 5. Stress, 8. Din, 9. Banana, 10. Ordeal, 11. Bite, 13. Intended, 14. Syrup, 15. Pagan, 19. Remember, 21. Thaw, 22. Parade, 23. Tedium, 25. Spa, 26. Status, 27. Low-key. Down: 2. Readily, 3. Via, 4. Adagio, 5. Snooty, 6. Redundant, 7. Scale, 12. Exuberant, 16. As a rule, 17. Obsess, 18. Brutal, 20. Exalt, 24. Dew.

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RATING INFORMATION DATABASE

Pursuant to Section28 of the Local Government (Rating) Act 2002 public notice is hereby given that the Rating Information Database is available for inspection on the Council website www.waipadc.govt.

nz and at the Offices of the Waipa District Council.

101 Bank Street 23 Wilson Street

Te Awamutu 3800 Cambridge 3434

Between hours of 9.00am and 5.00pm Monday to Friday.

The Rating Information Database records all information required for setting and assessing rates.

Steph O’Sullivan Chief Executive

WHITFIELD, Cheryl Robyn

– Cheryl passed away peacefully on Sunday 24th of May 2026, surrounded by her family, aged 76 years. Cherished wife of Denis and adored mother and motherin-law of Daniel and Rianda, Victoria and Steven, and Anna and Daniel. Loved Granny of Peyton, Zara, Maeve, Stanley, Wyatt, Hannelie and Marius. A celebration of Cheryl’s life is to be held at the Raleigh Street Christian Centre, 24 Raleigh Street, Leamington Cambridge, on Saturday 30th of May 2026 at 11:00am. Communications to the Whitfield family C/Cambridge Funerals, PO Box 844, Cambridge 3450.

WHITE, Ngaire Jean –

Passed away on Saturday, 23rd May 2026, aged 86 years. Adored wife of the late Percy. Cherished mother and mother-inlaw of George & Vicki, and Anne & Grant. Devoted Nana and Great Nana to all her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Ngaire filled our lives with warmth, and kindness. A memorial celebration of Ngaire’s life will be held at Cambridge Town Hall Victorian Room, Victoria Street, Cambridge, on Saturday, 30th May 2026 at 11.00am. Messages to the White Family may be sent c/- 3 Hallys Lane, Cambridge 3434, or left in Ngaire’s online tribute book at Grinter’s Funeral Home: www.grinters.co.nz

Schedule 10, Local Government Act 1974.

Waipā District Council will close the following road(s) at the following period(s) to ordinary vehicular traffic for Fieldays 2026:

Dates: Wednesday, 10 June to Saturday, 13 June 2026 Road Closures (5:45am to 11:00am and 1:00pm to 8:00pm):

• Mystery Creek Road – from Mystery Creek Events Centre Gate

2 to Mellow Road

• Mystery Creek Road – from Mellow Road to McEldownie Road

• McEldownie Road – from Kaipaki Road to Mystery Creek Road

• Mellow Road – full length Road Closure (5:45am to 11:00am only):

• Raynes Road (eastbound lane only) - from Sharpe Road to Airport Road (SH21)

There will be no detours in place during the temporary road closure. Access for emergency vehicles will be permitted in the event of an emergency.

Steph O’Sullivan Chief Executive NOTICE

TAYLOR MADE 22a Taylor Street, Cambridge

Speaker: Waipa Mayor Mike Pettit

GIRVAN, Charlotte Elizabeth – Formally of Clydevale, Kuriwao and Mosgiel. Charlotte passed away peacefully on Saturday 23 May 2026. Dearly loved wife of the late Allan Robert. Adored daughter of the late Arthur and Francis KEE. Respected and loved mother and mother-in-law of Carol and Bob Sinclair, Deborah and Stephen GRAY. Special Grandma of Jason McNAB; Luke, Matthew and Nicole SINCLAIR; Emma, Jack and Hayley GRAY. Loved sister of Barbara, Margaret, Corletta (deceased), John and James (deceased). In accordance with Charlotte’s wishes, a private cremation has taken place. Communication to Charlotte’s family C/- Gibson Funerals, PO Box 501, Cambridge 3450.

STANTON, Paul Adair –Passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family, on Wednesday, 20th May 2026, aged 84 years. Beloved son of the late Norman and Vera Stanton. Cherished partner of Venetia. Loved father and father-in-law of Glenn and Tamsyn, Mathew and Heidi. Much loved Poppa of Adair and granddad of Emily and Vincent. Dearly loved brother of Ingrid and brother-in-law of the late Richard. Loved brother of Elizabeth and uncle to Ian. A memorial service to celebrate Paul’s life has been held. Messages to the Stanton family may be sent c/- 3 Hallys Lane, Cambridge 3434, or left in Paul’s online tribute book at www.grinters.co.nz

SWEETMAN, Noel James – Peacefully at home on Thursday 21 May 2026, with his partner by his side after a courageous battle with illness, aged 77 years. Adored partner of Chin. Loved and respected father of Marie and the late Mark. Cherished grandfather of the late Brittany. Noel will be deeply missed by his siblings, friends and the classical music community. A celebration of Noel’s life was held at Te Miro Settlers Hall on Wednesday 27 May. Communications to Noel’s family C/- Gibson Funerals, PO Box 501, Cambridge 3450.

KELLIHER, John Garry –

Passed away in China on Monday 11 May 2026. Much loved and loving partner of Karen for 34 years. Adored Dad of Dillon and Emma. Loved youngest brother and brother-in-law of Phil and Carolyn, and the late Wayne, and son-in-law of Selwyn and Judy Mexted. A celebration of John’s life will be held in the Victorian Room at Cambridge Town Hall, Victoria Street, Cambridge on Friday 29 May at 2:00pm.

LECKIE, Rachael Margaret – 15 September 1966 – 13 May 2026. Passed away, surrounded by love at Waikato Hospital, following a tragic cycling accident at Mount Maunganui on 27 April 2026. Devoted wife and soulmate of John Bryant. Dearly loved daughter of Eleanor and the late Jim Leckie. Much loved sister and sister-in-law of Duncan; Sandra and Grant Millar; and Belinda Leckie and Mark Peters. Loved daughter-inlaw of the late Les and Joan Bryant, and sister-in-law of Paul Bryant and Sandra Schluter. Adored Aunty Rachael of Nicholas and Michael Leckie; Gemma and Jordan Sheed; Anna and Scott Fitzgerald; and Craig and Sophie Millar. Cherished and idolised by her greatnephews and niece, Lewis, Walter, Albert and Penny Sheed; Henry, Wilfred and Morris Fitzgerald; and Finn Millar. A private celebration of life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family invites donations to the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service would be appreciated, in grateful thanks for the exceptional care Rachael received. Please follow the link on Rachael’s tribute page. Messages to John and the Leckie family may be sent c/- 3 Hallys Lane, Cambridge 3434, or left in Rachael’s online tribute book at www. grinters.co.nz.