Cambridge News | November 13, 2025

We have electric lift off

By Mary Anne Gill

Waipā’s trailblazing role in New Zealand’s aeronautical history entered a new chapter last week with the launch of the country’s first electric aircraft at Hamilton Airport.

Over the coming weeks, look to the skies as Air New Zealand’s Beta Alia CX300 conducts a series of demonstration flights around the district before moving to Wellington next month.

Its distinctive silhouette and the national carrier’s logo make it hard to miss, said Taupō MP and Tourism Minister Louise Upston at the launch event.

Also present were Waikato MP Tim van de Molen, Waipā mayor Mike Pettit, Hamilton city councillor Maria Huata, new Air New Zealand chief executive Nikhil Ravishankar, Hamilton Airport and Civil Aviation Authority chief executives Mark Morgan and Kane Patena and Beta Technologies’ head of global sales Simon Newitt.

The Beta Alia CX300 is a batteryelectric aircraft manufactured by Beta Technologies in Vermont, United States. It accommodates two crew members and offers 5.6 cubic metres of cargo space, with a flight range of up to 398 kilometres.

Notably, Beta Technologies debuted on the New York Stock Exchange just a day before the New Zealand launch.

The four-month demonstrator programme at Hamilton, Wellington and Blenheim airports will see Air New Zealand pilots, Andrew Mercer and James Owen, work alongside Beta’s flight

operations and engineering team to undertake flights in a range of conditions, flight manoeuvres and routes.

Thanks to its quiet, zero-emission propulsion and conventional takeoff and landing capabilities, the CX300 can easily be accommodated at existing airports. Flights of up to 200 kilometres will be conducted during the programme.

Waipā’s aviation legacy dates back to 1933, when flight training began at the Rukuhia Aerodrome - now Hamilton Airport. The region’s light aviation industry flourished as farmers embraced top-dressing aircraft to fertilise hard-to-reach land.

Pioneers like Ossie James, Max Clear, and Ewan Wilsonalongside the Waikato Aero Club and companies such as Pacific Aerospace - are synonymous with Waipā’s spirit of aviation innovation.

“We can make magic when we work and collaborate together,” said Upston.

She praised Air New Zealand’s agility and forward-thinking approach.

“Sometimes we underestimate what New Zealand can do. This is incredibly significant.”

Ravinshankar said 60 per cent of the country’s regional flights were less than 350 kilometres, making New Zealand the perfect laboratory for next generation airplanes.

Morgan said the airspace around Hamilton Airport was a great place to learn and understand the systems, infrastructure and logistics that would one day support next generation aircraft.

News/Editorial

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Roy Pilott editor@goodlocal.nz

maryanne@goodlocal.nz

viv@goodlocal.nz

chris@goodlocal.nz

janine@goodlocal.nz

David Mackenzie david@goodlocal.nz

admin@goodlocal.nz •

Liberation commemorated

By Viv Posselt

A gathering at the Le Quesnoy Sculpture in Cambridge last week commemorated the 107th anniversary of the 1918 liberation of the French town by Kiwi soldiers led by Cambridge’s second lieutenant Leslie Averill. It was held at the Thornton Rd/Victoria St sculpture designed by New Zealand sculptor Fred Graham, who died in May this year. At the November 2019 unveiling of the sculpture, Graham said its design had been based on France’s Eiffel Tower, with the splayed fronds of a silver fern clasped along one edge. A series of story boards displayed under the trees tells the story of the Le Quesnoy liberation. Cambridge RSA’s Paul Murphy said it was right that Cambridge residents remember the courage of those who scaled the walls of Le Quesnoy just a week before World War One ended. No civilian lives were lost in the action, but many Kiwi soldiers died and are buried in the town’s cemetery. Last week’s ceremony saw a wreath laid By Heather Wellington on behalf of the Cambridge-Le Quesnoy Friendship Association, and one by Lieutenant Commander Greg Liddy RNZN

the beat

(Naval Liaison Officer for Waikato) on behalf of the New Zealand Defence Forces. The event was attended by Waipā deputy mayor Jo Davies-Colley, with musical accompaniment by Cambridge Brass Band members Jack Redpath and bugler Doug Rose.

Cambridge and Districts Pipe Band

Keep your eyes on the road

Each week, I review the past seven days of reported incidents in Cambridge in preparation for writing this column.

As always, our team responded to a wide variety of calls. This week, we attended four assaults, two incidents of threatening behaviour, three mental health-related calls, two missing persons, five burglaries, three family harm incidents, we assisted Fire and Emergency New Zealand with a house fire and responded to one case involving an unaccompanied child.

What really stood out though this week, was the number of reported traffic crashes: 10 in just seven days.

These ranged from minor fender-benders and expressway nose-to-tails to more serious crashes involving vehicles going through fences, rolling or ending up in ditches. Distraction and speed are common factors. Mobile phone use continues to be a major issue. Taking your eyes and mind off the road for even a moment can have serious consequences.

With summer nearly here, roadworks are appearing across the district. Freshly completed works often leave loose shingle on the road for a few days, creating slippery conditions. Combine that with inattention or ignoring reduced speed limits, and it’s a recipe for crashes, smashed windscreens, and worse.

A crash doesn’t just affect those directly involved. It can cause traffic build-up,

leading to secondary nose-to-tail accidents.

This is made worse when holiday traffic levels come into play. If you’re driving past a crash scene, please don’t ‘rubberneck’ or video it. Such behaviour is not only unhelpful to attending emergency services, but it can also add to the stress for those involved and their families. Be a considerate driver, drive defensively, follow the road rules and be patient.

On another note, I’ve again been asked to remind everyone about scams, to which people continue to fall prey. In the past seven days, we received four reports where people fell victim to scams locally and across the wider Waikato this number was in excess of 30. These included cases of WhatsApp scams, including fake friend or kidnapping messages, phishing texts pretending to be from the New Zealand Police or banks, and financial (crypto investment) scams; each designed to trick people into handing over personal details and varying sums of money. Most scammers operate from offshore and are very cunning. They use deception to manipulate victim into voluntarily sending money to them or inadvertently providing banking details which enable unauthorised access to the victim’s accounts. Please stay vigilant. Educate yourself and spread the word to others. If you are targeted, don’t engage, and trust your gut. If something feels wrong, it probably is.

member, and ex Black Watch Pipes and Drums member Gerard Rooney played ‘Salute to Willie, the Royal Fendersmith’, the same piece played by Queen Elizabeth 11’s piper, Pipe Major Paul Burns, at her request, as her coffin was lowered into the royal vault at St George’s Chapel. The lament was composed by a Fife piper, former Scots Guards Pipe Major James Banks, in memory of his late brother Willie who died aged 49. Willie had worked at Windsor Castle as royal fendersmith, one who lights the fires and cleans and repairs the fenders for the castle’s 300 fireplaces. He died tragically in a swimming accident in the Thames in 1995.

Such was the relationship between the Queen and Willie, that she allowed his funeral to take place at St George’s Chapel.

Hill leads Cambridge’s Tony Hill has been appointed national president of the Royal New Zealand Returned and Services’ Association (RNZRSA). His appointment was made at last week’s 109th NZRSA National Council in Wellington. During the year prior, Hill was one of two national NZRSA vicepresidents.

In liquidation

Auckland liquidators

Steven Khov and Kieran Jones have been appointed for Tamahere-based Zane Beckett Construction and are appealing for any creditors to come forward before November 21 to make their claims. Beckett, who is a shareholder and director of several companies - including ZB Homes in Cambridge and Te Awamutu - told the liquidators the company had no assets and was unable to pay its debts as they fell due.

Projects funded

Waikato River Authority has awarded $5.7 million to 26 projects dedicated to protecting and restoring the health and well-being of the Waikato and Waipā Rivers and their catchments. The projects are wide-ranging from erosion control, riparian planting and geothermal ecosystem restoration to Waikato River education programmes for tamariki and a four-day waka journey.

Studs open

Several Waikato studs will open their gates to the public during the first National Thoroughbred Week running from next Thursday (November 20) for five days. A total of 70 venues in Australia and New Zealand will offer access to stables, breeding farms and aftercare facilities for people who have booked. The list includes Cambridge and Trelawney Studs.

Town’s new food basket

By Chris Gardner

A conversation about the costof-living crisis overheard in a supermarket led to the opening of a new community food bank in Cambridge.

A Te Manawa o Cambridge Trust team member overheard a fellow shopper struggling with price of food.

The idea of building Kete Kai underneath the tulip tree at Cambridge Primary School was born.

“We have noticed an increase in demand and families going without,” said trust spokesperson Amanda Alexander. “We cater to families in need for a multitude of reasons ranging from advocacy to furniture to sourcing kai and everything in between.”

Trust founder Raylene MartinReuben’s journey began three years ago when she began putting the jug on for those in need and having a listening ear.

“Times are tough for everyone out there and the purpose of the Kete Kai is to bring the community together, so no one feels alone,” Alexander said.

The community rallied around the construction of the Kete Kai, with time and materials donated by many. Food donors, including café and shops leave food that would otherwise go to waste which is free for anyone to take.

“We are hoping that people only take what they need and so far, it seems to be operating well,”

Alexander said.

“We have heard it is getting very good usage and support from town cafes, and the primary school is stocking it with fresh eggs and

veggies that they produce from school. “

Waipā mayor Mike Pettit, who was principal at the primary school when the community project started, opened the facility with a ribbon cutting last week before meeting Cambridge Chamber of Commerce chief executive Kelly Bouzaid to discuss the issue of people sleeping rough in the central business district.

Bouzaid called on the council to solve the rough sleeping problem last month. She wrote to strategy manager Kirsty Downey and regulatory services manager Wayne

Allan offering to have input on a policy.

While Bouzaid said she is yet to receive a reply from staff, the mayor got in immediate contact after telling The News that the community needed to own both the problem and the solution.

Bouzaid said she and Pettit has discussed establishing a multiagency taskforce to approach the issue across the entire district.

“It needs to a be a comprehensive approach,” Bouzaid said. “I would like to see a lot more haste from the council.”

Bouzaid said she was completely supportive of the trust’s work in opening Kete Kai.

“I think it’s wonderful. Kete Kai is for our residents that are struggling.”

Cambridge Corps of the Salvation Army community engagement team leader Julieanne Seath said families were finding it tough.

“People are struggling and we are giving out about 80 food parcels a month now,” she said.

“Sometimes the people sitting in posh seats in parliament should be swapping places with those people and seeing how difficult life is.”

Is Friday the new Wednesday?

By Chris Gardner

Friday could become the new Wednesday at Waipā District Council.

The council switched to holding committee and full council meetings from Tuesdays to Wednesdays in January.

The move came despite concern raised by Good Local Media editor

Roy Pilott.

The publishing company was concerned readers would have to wait eight days for the results of decisions to be published in the Cambridge News and Te Awamutu News.

“When the decision was made, the paper was not on my radar,” Mayor Mike Pettit said.

But the council’s swearing in, and

inaugural council meeting was held on the last Friday of October, and its next meeting is tomorrow.

Pettit said no permanent decision had been made on dates, although he was “pretty open” to a change.

“That will be a decision that will come up,” he said.

“Councillors will make a decision. I’ve done some asking and, in most cases, most councillors look pretty

flexible.

“That discussion will happen, and I’m sure there’ll be some good discussion around this, but it will be about making the best decisions for Waipa.

“I’m not going in there with a mandate of this or that. As long as it makes sense for good governance decisions. That’s the fundamental for me - that’s the bottom line.”

We do care, say councillors

By Chris Gardner

Newly-elected Waikato regional councillors have hit back at claims they do not care about the environment.

Councillors have faced criticism for seeking an economic impact report on a plan change.

“No farmer wants to be an ‘eco-terrorist’, that is simply counterproductive to their personal enterprise sustainability,” Keith Holmes, the immediate past president of Waikato Federated Farmers, said.

“Nor should any farmer be expected to work and farm at a loss or have their livelihoods taken off them by dumb laws without compensation. Please remember also the enormous amount of farmers’ personal income and time that has already gone into on farm environmental custodianship.”

Holmes pushed for the council to ask the Environment Court for time to commission the economic impact study before ruling on a water quality plan change. According to his calculations Plan Change One would cost the Waikato economy $5 billion.

Holmes was responding to a letter published in The Cambridge News in which Alice Hicks said she had read that four newly elected councillors did not believe farmers should be fencing waterways, mapping contaminant loss or reviewing good management practices to protect and clean up waterways, and to protect collective ground waters for future generations.

“Emotive, exaggerated messaging from Federated Farmers, once again pushes the ‘don’t make us responsible for any pollution’ messaging,” Hicks wrote.

Another letter from Gordon Walker to The King Country News was also critical and suggested councillors were narrow minded. Holmes said his role may have changed but the issues society faced remained the same.

“Kaitiaki and kaumatua or guardianship should always look to bigger picture and have a holistic view of what is best for us all,” Holmes said.

“The Plan Change One journey is still before the courts. The councillors are evolving to having a totally holistic overview to ensure that Waikato is prosperous, enabling, exciting and environmentally responsible. We also want to be able afford what our ratepayers demand – water treatment, roads, hospitals, houses, schools and ‘living affordability’. Simply put, our kaitiaki responsibility is to urgently generate the money in the Waikato region to pay for all these things.”

Another newly elected regional councillor, Liz Stolwyk acknowledged the “genuine frustration and disappointment” expressed by many who care deeply about the state of waterways.

But she noted the volume of plantings and land retired in 2024-25 alone showed that many farmers were stepping up — often quietly, without recognition — to make meaningful change.

Reymer, a King Country ward councillor and former economics spokesman for Waikato Federated Farmers, said Hicks’ comments that the four new candidates did not think farmers should be responsible for the good stewardship of the land could not be further from the truth.

“We all support best farm practice which make up the terms of supply to most of the

producer companies they supply,” Reymer said. “Things like fencing waters ways, nitrogen recording to set limits to restrict nitrogen loss through leaching or runoff are strictly monitored.”

He described farmers as natural environmentalists because their livelihood depended on intergenerational wellbeing of the land and waterways.

“As councillors on the Waikato Regional Council we have a responsibility to ensure they continue to do so but to also balance

the need for food security and the economic sustainability of the entire community,” he said.

“The worst polluted places of the world are where they get this balance wrong.

“We can be proud of how far we have come and our direction of travel.

“I have every confidence that this council will continue to strive for continued improvement on all key performance indicators around economic, people, water, and soil.”

SUNDAY 7 DEC, 2PM

Two lucky children will win a ride with Santa in the New World Cambridge Christmas Parade!

To enter drop completed colouring sheet into New World Cambridge by Tuesday 25th November 2025. Two lucky children aged between 3 and 13 will be selected from the entries. Judges decisions are final. Winners will be contacted by phone on the 27th November 2025.

Awards for everyday heroes

By Viv Posselt

Members of the Cambridge Volunteer Fire Brigade were described as ‘champions and everyday heroes’ by Taupō MP Louise Upston at their annual honours evening.

The event celebrated the efforts of firefighters and brigade supporters during a year fire chief Dennis Hunt said was projected to set new records.

He said the brigade continued to experience increased demand as Cambridge grows. A total of 416 callouts were recorded in the first 10 months of the year, an increase on the 345 made over the same period during the previous year. He said July was the busiest month, with 52 callouts made.

“This year is projected to set new records for our station.”

Hunt thanked the firefighters and their families, employers who readily allowed their staff to leave at the sound of the siren, and the various businesses, charitable organisations, groups and individuals who continue to support the brigade.

He commended firefighters for “volunteering hundreds of hours at monthly meetings, training nights, working bees, and at various community events,” and for being available to respond to callouts at any time of day or night.

Among the guests were Taupō MP Louise Upston, Waipā mayor Mike Pettit attending his first official mayoral function, Liz Stolwyk and Jo Davies-Colley, who were also newcomers to their respective roles –Stolwyk on the Waikato Regional Council and Davies-Colley as Waipā’s new deputy mayor.

Fire and Emergency NZ group manager

as were

from

and Chartwell brigades, whom

said had worked more closely with the Cambridge brigade over the past year.

Particular mention was given to a contingent of women from the former Lyceum Club, which closed in 2024 after 84 years. They were there as honoured guests after the club donated $165,000 to

the brigade. The money was part of funds raised through the sale of the club’s Dick St property and distributed to five Cambridge organisations.

Hunt said the windfall was the largest single donation the brigade has received. He also commended the Leamington Rugby Club for a fundraising venture that netted the brigade $31,000 from the sale of rugby jerseys.

Mike Pettit noted his 17 year-plus involvement with the brigade through his years at Cambridge Primary School and gave the assurance that the relationship would continue. He thanked the firefighters and brigade supporters, and said council was deeply appreciative of the work they do in the community.

Upston noted that the brigade’s work went far beyond just fighting fires… it encompassed community and education opportunities, and an increased number of medical events.

“I know that is one of the areas that is increasingly challenging, and is not one you signed up for,” she said.

She related an incident last year where she witnessed a fatal road accident first hand, called 111 and noticed how firefighters were first on the scene.

“I think about that and recognise your willingness to attend these incidences any time the siren goes off, not knowing what you will face. In my view you are champions for the community… everyday heroes. Thank you.” The United Fire Brigades Association honours presented were:

Two-year gold bars - chief fire officer Dennis Hunt (37 years), station officer Phil Johnston (31 years). Two-year silver bars - Andy Fairhall (19 years), Derek Holm (9 years), and Sam Kelleher and Michael Morton (both 7 years).

Five-year service medals - Bruce Bester and Hendricks Arts, and three-year certificates - Hendricks Arts, Hayden Goodwin, Ash Hammond, Caleb Hassman, Regan Phillips, Geoff Leslie and ex-member Levi Gerrand. His father Richie Gerrand received the award on his behalf.

WAIPĀ NETWORKS – POWERED BY PEOPLE, INVESTED IN YOU

Meet Tiaan, Waipā Networks Project Manager and proud Te Awamutu local. He is one of five project managers who plan and deliver electrical upgrade projects across our network.

Delivering projects across our network, Tiaan, Manga, Paul, Renier and Bhavish look after the lifecycles of several projects, from scoping, ordering equipment, scheduling outages, and keeping customers informed. They focus on getting work done safely and quickly, choosing solutions that make sense for everyone. The team’s been busy with a series of projects across the network, big and small, from Tamahere to Kāwhia.

The big projects, like our new 33kV substation in Cambridge or planning future network architecture for Te Awamutu, ensure our network keeps up with a fast-growing district, while continuing to provide a reliable and resilient electricity connection for everyone.

OWNED BY YOU, INVESTED FOR YOU

Waipā Networks is 100% customer owned. That means we don’t have external shareholders –our customers are our owners. Every decision we make and every dollar we invest is about creating value for our communities, not paying dividends offshore.

These projects are not just about increasing capacity by building bigger and better things. They are about ensuring that as the Waipā district grows, the benefits flow directly back to you – in fewer outages, quicker restoration, safer infrastructure, and future-ready technology.

Installing stronger poles and smart grid technology are long-term investments with immediate benefits for people’s well-being, while also enabling business growth across the region.

In Cambridge, we’ve been upgrading ageing infrastructure and enabling businesses to expand through a busy works plan that spans across the town from Watkins Road to Vogel Street, not forgetting our recent works on Alpha Street.

The works on Vogel Street include replacing overhead lines with underground cables to enable future development at the rest home, ensuring the community has access to the best facilities as Cambridge continues to grow.

In Te Awamutu, we’re currently upgrading the feeder that supplies Pirongia and Frontier Estate Subdivision on the edge of town. The physical works can be seen along Alexandra Street, but, like most of our projects, the areas

that are impacted and benefit from the works extend much further.

You might see work happening in one place, but an outage in another. Like a spider web, lines run in all different directions until they reach transformers and switching gear. It’s at that point where we can isolate the outage with the aim of switching fewer people off while we complete our work.

WORKING FOR OUR PEOPLE

As locals themselves, our other project managers continue to look at projects with the aim of maximising the benefits to ensure the power stays on now and in the future. Because at Waipā Networks, when we invest in reliability, we’re not just investing in poles, wires, cables and substations – we’re investing in you, our customer-owners.

Being customer-owned means there are no outside shareholders to satisfy. The value of these investments comes straight back to the people of Waipā through a stronger, more reliable network today, and a future-proofed system for tomorrow.

Council looks at roads reset

By Chris Gardner

Waipā District Council will decide next month which transport problems it wishes a reset Cambridge Connections project to resolve.

Before then Cambridge Connections executive director Katie Mayes will bring the new council up to speed at a workshop being held after tomorrow’s (Friday) council meeting.

Mayes told The News the council had sought public feedback on the reset project

thorough late September and October and there was strong support for a third bridge to balance access between Cambridge and Leamington.

“By the end of next year we will have identified an area where another bridge will go,” she said.

The project is being reset after public backlash to a proposed third Waikato River crossing signified by a blue blob in residential neighbourhoods.

“It will only be a general area. It might not be blue,

but it is still going to be a blob. The council is acutely aware that they want to give certainty to the community as quickly as they can.”

The council was looking to make a decision in two to three years. Mayes hoped that time could bring certainty to the town as soon as possible.

That is a sentiment shared by new mayor Mike Pettit, who said two years was too long for him… ‘it needs to be as quick as possible, but we’re also doing it correctly.”

Cambridge Business

Chamber chief executive Kelly Bouzaid said the chamber welcomed progress on Cambridge Connections.

“The current challenges are easy to identify. Congestion at peak times, limited parking, and the lack of alternative routes across the river are putting pressure on our network,” she said.

“Freight and service vehicles are sharing the same corridors as parents on school runs, cyclists, and visitors, creating inefficiencies and safety concerns.

Debate over flooding

By Chris Gardner

When it rains, Donna Liddington fears for her home, business and livestock.

Liddington has operated the Horse and Hound Shop from Cambridge Road, between Cambridge and Te Awamutu, for 20 years and has suffered regular flooding of the low-lying property for the last decade.

She and the Waipā District Council have differing views on the problem.

Liddington says rainwater runs off the road into an open council culvert choked with blackberries

and rubbish and a blockage behind her property causes it to overflow onto her property, On the last occasion, in last month’s heavy rain, the flood water lapped at the door of her home and business.

“It came over my gumboots and was one metre deep in places,” Liddington said.

The flood prompted her to move her cattle, horses and sheep to two paddocks on her property that did not flood. It took weeks for the flood water to recede. The water had damaged paddocks, impacting her ability to make silage, and also caused damage to fencing.

“My place is low lying, so all

water comes my way there is nowhere for it to go. Drains are meant to flow, and council need to supply somewhere for the water to flow to.”

Council water services manager Karl Pavlovich said he understood Liddington’s concerns about flooding and debris in the drain near her property. He said the council has looked into the issue “thoroughly over the past two years”, including a detailed investigation completed in September.

“The flooding on her property is linked to a private drainage network, which means it’s the property owner’s responsibility to

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“We support council’s approach to first ask what problems need solving, before leaping to solutions.”

The priorities were clear for the business community: improving access and traffic flow on and off State Highway 1; better connections between Hautapu, Leamington, and the CBD; balanced parking options for retailers and visitors; and futureproofed planning to accommodate Cambridge’s growth.

“Cambridge’s prosperity relies on people and goods being able to move safely and efficiently,” Bouzaid said.

maintain,” he said.

“Our investigations also found that water from the road flows away from the property, not towards it.

“Council crews will continue to clear rubbish from public

stormwater drains in the area as part of our regular maintenance programme. We encourage all property owners to keep private drains clear to help prevent blockages and localised flooding.”

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Trilogy launched

By Viv Posselt

The story of Le Quesnoy’s liberation via ladder and its connection to Cambridge makes for compelling reading, and a new book written by a New Plymouth chartered accountant and historical fiction fan Tania Roberts breathes new life into the courageous tale.

Roberts was in town for the November launch of ‘Letters of Hope’ at Cambridge Resthaven by the Cambridge-Le Quesnoy Friendship Association’s Heather Wellington.

‘Letters of Hope’ is the first in a trilogy set around the liberation of Le Quesnoy. It tells the tale of a then teenaged Dominique Favier who played hide and seek as a child in the tunnels beneath the town’s fortified walls. During the German occupation, she uses that knowledge to help injured soldiers, refugees and townspeople escape.

The second book, ‘Fields of Faith’, will deal with battlefields and field hospitals outside the walls, and the third in the trilogy, ‘Ladder of Liberty’ will tell the story of Le Quesnoy’s liberation.

Roberts said ‘Letters of Hope’ was her eighth novel written part-time over 15 years. Some of the characters were authentic to their time, others fictional.

“I love telling those stories… particularly where they involve Kiwis who have made a contribution during the wars,” she said.

“There are several non-fiction publications around the Le Quesnoy story, but nothing fictional that made this important piece of history come alive, particularly from a women’s perspective.”

Her 2024 visit to Le Quesnoy where she stayed in a grand old house built in the

1800s and conducted extensive research, set the scene for the trilogy. She wanted to tell the story of the desperation of life under German occupation through the eyes of young Dominique and other townspeople trapped inside the walls, forbidden as they were from communicating with outsiders.

Describing herself as a disciplined writer who takes to the keyboard from 8-9am daily, she said once she completed her research, it took six months to write the 82,000 words in this first book.

“I hope it will take readers through the streets and tunnels of Le Quesnoy … give them a sense of life at that terrible time. I want to bring this story alive to a larger audience.”

Arthur’s 50-year legacy

By Viv Posselt

The Cambridge Blind and Low Vision Support Group has celebrated 50 years spent providing support for those who struggle in a world set up for the fully sighted.

The gathering at the Sir Don Rowlands Centre brought together supporters and family members of the group’s founder, Cambridge dairy farmer Arthur Paton.

President Marilyn Kennedy told guests

the anniversary cake, donated by Paton’s granddaughter Judith Bennett, had been made by his great-granddaughter, Tauranga’s Stephanie Bennett.

Almost totally blind, Paton’s determination saw him succeed in living as normal a life as possible. He went to great lengths to help others in his position and in 1975 founded what was then the Cambridge Blind Welfare Society, now the Cambridge Blind and Low Vision Support Group.

Volunteering Canterbury’s Alison Marshall, MNZM, who worked with Blind and Low Vision New Zealand for decades, said Paton’s aim in starting the group had been to enable sight-impaired people to come together, share their experiences, and support one another.

The group has had several names since then, but from 2010 has been known as the Blind and Low Vision Support Group. At its heart is the work of volunteers.

“I had a relationship with them for 28 years and saw the spirit that makes this group so special. They continue to make a difference in people’s lives… I am sure Arthur would be proud to see how his vision has grown.”

Marshall commended the Cambridge group for running successfully ‘on the smell of an oily rag’, and thanked organisations who helped provide funding. “It is money very well spent, and its value is immeasurable.”

In an address delivered on her behalf, Taupō MP Louise Upston said the group had been a source of strength and support, connection and advocacy for half a century.

“As Minister for both disability issues and

the community and voluntary sector, I want to acknowledge the remarkable legacy of the Cambridge Blind and Low Vision Support Group – the longest-running blind and lowvision support group in New Zealand, I’m told,” she said.

“Our built environment is not welldesigned for blind or partially sighted people. Your volunteers have worked tirelessly to improve accessibility, inclusion and awareness. You’ve helped make Cambridge a more equitable place.”

Waipā District Council’s group manager customer and community services, Sally Sheedy, said 50 years was a significant milestone.

“Your contribution to supporting

individuals and families truly strengthens the fabric of our community. Be very proud of that,” she said. “From a council perspective, I would like to recognise the community advisors who attend your meetings. This is a way we can connect and understand your voice in the community.”

Natasha Mackie, general manager client services for Blind Low Vision NZ, acknowledged the founder’s family members and thanked the group for providing opportunity over the past 50 years for people to spend time with their peers.

“Your group has enriched the lives of many people, probably thousands, over the past 50 years. We really value the partnership we have with you.”

Gaining perspective

By Murray Smith, Bridges Church

It’s been remarkable that few if any mainstream media outlets seem to have awareness or care for reporting recent news filtering out of Cabo Delgardo region in northern Mozambique.

Violent attacks began in Cabo Delgado province in 2017 but as it’s progressively ebbed and flowed with escalating agitation over the last month or two, more than 6000 people have now died with thousands more being displaced. Sadly, it’s ongoing with little containment of the evil being perpetuated.

Cabo Delgado is the only area in the country with a majority Muslim population. The nation at large has seen a growing interest in Christianity with a significant portion claiming adherence to faith and it’s in this context that a radical Islamist terror group seeking to assert itself in the north, has particularly targeted Christian believers.

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The Islamic State Mozambique Province, which is reigning through fear and violence, recently boasted about destroying at least seven churches, committing acts of arson against Christians and village civilians, shooting and beheading more than two dozen people in the provinces of Cabo Delgado and Nampula. Many have been forced from homes and villages which have been burned to the ground, with survivors fleeing to seek shelter in refugee camps.

Violent recruiting atrocities among the poorest of the poor are traumatising the population as eye-witness accounts of many being shot and beheaded multiply.

If they will not comply and won’t radicalise, children and wives are being forced to watch these terrorists butcher and behead the men who refuse to follow them.

Brutal attacks by murderous assailants

hacking and dismembering helpless people have reached a point that in order to counter violence in local villages, Mozambique renewed an alliance with Rwanda in late August. In the Status of Force Agreement, Rwanda’s Defence Force agreed to send troops into Cabo Delgado as radical Islamic terrorism runs rampant.

Having stayed and worked on two separate occasions in this part of Mozambique with teams supporting the Iris Ministries base, I’ve been impacted forever by the beautiful Mozambican Christians and their perspective on life; but also on death as well, since for years through civil war, persecution and now Islamic insurgency, longevity is far from an expectation. Death and mourning are a sad part of life here but their joy-filled Christian faith and understanding of heaven, balms deep sorrow. Some years ago, while staying in Pemba, I received news that my dad had died unexpectedly back home in New Zealand. This hard and unexpected blow was exacerbated by the feeling of distance and isolation. I went out to sit on a rocky outcrop in the orphanage grounds overlooking the Indian Ocean where I wept silently in the moonlight. I felt a little hand slip under my arm and heard the voice of a small Mozambican boy asking, “Mister, why do you cry?”

I told him I’d received news of my father’s death. He put his head on my shoulder, paused then said softly, “I have no father… no mother.” Compassion surged for that little orphan boy seeking to comfort me with the comfort he’d drawn from God through his own story of grief. Encountering him changed my perspective forever.

E-waste by the tonne

A Halloween themed collection of e-waste has prevented two tonnes of it going to land fill.

The Urban Miners Waipā Digital Graveyard ‘Tech or Treat’ event diverted the same amount that the Cambridge-based not-for-profit group usually collects over three months.

Urban Miners Co-founder David Blewden said that it was great to see so many people throughout the day visiting the Digital Graveyard installation at Achievement House, Cambridge, and dropping off their unused and discarded electronic devices.

“We were hoping to fill up our collection truck once over the day, but our volunteers couldn’t keep up with the items being brought in, we ended up packing four truckloads full while the items just keep piling up around us.”

It’s reported that e-waste is the fastest growing waste stream in the country and 100,000 tonnes of discarded electronics goes to landfill annually.

The “graveyard” featured 36 tombstones made with recycled building materials to illustrate the impact of e-waste. Devices like walkmans, reel-to-reel machines and first-model cell phones sat under each tombstone.

More than 250 students from neighbouring Cambridge Primary School visited over the day.

Urban Miners Co-founder Mark Hanlon was surprised at what came through the gates over the six-hour event.

“In the four trucks of e-waste we collected, there were 601 small electronics such as phones, kitchen

appliances and laptops, 155 large items such as flat screen TVs, 26 printers, 4 CRT TVs, with the most outrageous thing we received being a treadmill” he added.

“This event has really highlighted what we’ve known all along – that we are only scratching the surface of what people have at home with our regular collections.”

The free drop off event was backed with a grant from Waipā District Council. Urban Miners holds monthly e-waste collections in Cambridge and Te Awamutu, where e-waste can be dropped off.

Most items are accepted for $5 to $10 and some are taken free.

As well as recycling broken items, Urban Miners refurbish anything that can be saved to sell at the monthly Cambridge Lions Market.

Literal shaky ground

By Janine Krippner

Last week in Wellington I was lying in bed getting ready to sleep when I thought I felt the rumblings of a large truck going by. It died down, then a stronger shake hit. The “truck” was the initial phase of a magnitude 4.9 earthquake that originated below the Cook Straight at 22km depth and 25 km northwest of Wellington.

This is the second largest I have felt. Many of you might have also been woken at 5:39am on January 4, 2023, by the magnitude 5.1 earthquake that originated about 5 km south of Te Aroha, at 7 km depth.

While last week’s shake was decent enough to get the adrenaline flowing but not intense enough to shake anything over where I was, it is a good reminder that we live in an active country and a great time to ponder what we would do in a larger event.

In New Zealand we don’t have the luxury of pretending that our country won’t be impacted by another devastating earthquake. We will. It is a matter of when and where, not if.

A few hours before last week’s shake, I attended a fascinating public lecture at Victoria University of Wellington by Professor Rebecca Bednarek on the system of providing insurance when disasters strike. There are so many moving parts that determine how we recover from a disaster, and large events impact the entire country economically. It takes a mix of personal responsibility, private corporations, and our government all doing what we need to. Insurance becoming unaffordable is a scary thought when how quickly and

smoothly we recover depends on a heck of a lot of money. There is so much beyond the natural event itself that determines how much of a disaster we experience. It only becomes a disaster if we cannot cope with the hazard.

The personal responsibility aspect of this is where we can shine as individuals and communities.

There is plenty that we can do, which I will continue to share through this column. For now, check out advice given online at getready.govt.nz and perhaps commit to one small step to begin with.

Have a chat with your household and/ or neighbours about what you would do, especially if you are separated if an earthquake hits.

Also go through the steps in your mind on what to do when an earthquake strikes. Remember: Drop, Cover and Hold on. If you are in bed like I was, you can cover your head with a pillow and wait.

Maybe don’t have a sword collection above your bed, and remember that standing in a doorway is outdated advice. If you experience a damaging earthquake, have shoes ready so you don’t step on glass or anything else that might make recovery more painful.

These smaller jolts are signs of how active our country is, and of the processes that have shaped our landscapes. We are not powerless to these enormous forces, there is plenty of research and learned experience that can help us to come out better off.

Cambridge to Piarere

AGE OF REASON

An unhealthy state

By Peter Carr

Not too many years ago the (then) New Zealand prime minister told his Australian counterpart at a CHOGM meeting in Melbourne that the westward drift across the Tasman of prospective Australian residents ‘would benefit the IQ of both countries’. The very tall Mr Fraser and the equally short Mr Muldoon then glared across the table at each other, with the latter stomping out of the meeting early to catch a plane home to Auckland. And since then, really honest political relations between the two countries have never reached the height to which both should attain. Plenty of platitudes but the big brother shadow falling onto the smaller country has never gone away.

At that time the general drift towards ‘the lucky country’ was generally populated by people who could not – or did not want to – accept Kiwi working conditions and pay. They took jobs where mainly manual labour would have been acceptable – especially in the highly paid mining industries. Muldoon had worked out how that could be expressed by his crude IQ comment.

Much is being said in the media by the now increasing drift in the same direction, but this time by well educated professionals. I recall the statements of two couples – all friends of mine – who tried to start up afresh – both in Brisbane as it happens – and found the general demeanour of ‘Aussies’ most unwelcoming.

Now before my phone rings or there is a grumpy letter to the editor (quelle horreur) let me state clearly that everyone is totally free to move in either direction.

What I cannot get clear in my mind is, with our health service on its knees, when a fully qualified NZ nurse left last week telling the media that she could not get a job on this side of the Tasman.

My nursing daughter further south - who coordinates the practical activities for ten operating theatres - is besieged by emails almost daily asking if she is free to do an extra shift.

Likewise, how is it that it takes three weeks for me to obtain an appointment with my personal GP – when a major political party is offering voting sweeteners by way of three ‘free’ GP visits per year?

This to further swamp the already severely over-worked medical centres and lengthen the waiting lists.

True mathematical and social brilliance! And a similar promise this past week –another party this time – guaranteed a large number of extra beds in hospitals. May one be impertinent to ask who will be staffing these new or enlarged wards?

On requesting, two weeks ago, an appointment with a medical centre nurse - who at least can undertake a simple triage - I was told that I could not be helped and was advised to join the coughing and heaving evening queue at one of the costly after-hours facilities in Cambridge and Te Awamutu.

Have we reached such a miserable nadir that we might have to look after ourselves? All the political babble that emanates from the Beehive is plain hot air only good for filling balloons.

Community information day

Drop in on Wednesday 19 November anytime between 2pm to 6pm at Cambridge Town Hall to get the latest information from the team at NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) on state highway projects between Cambridge and Piarere and nearby.

SH1 Cambridge to Piarere expressway

Find out what’s happening in planning for the Waikato Expressway extension between Cambridge and Piarere. This is a Road of National Significance (RoNS) project.

Regional and local projects

As well as the State Highway 1 Cambridge to Piarere expressway and State Highway 1/State Highway 29 roundabout, learn what’s happening with other state highway and local transport projects.

New Waipā citizens certified

By Jesse Wood

Mike Pettit kept his teaching skills sharpened as he welcomed 100 new New Zealand citizens last Friday at the Te Awamutu Presbyterian Centre.

New citizens came from Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, Czech Republic, England, Fiji, Germany, India, Italy, Kenya, Malawi, Netherlands, Northern Ireland, Philippines, Republic of Ireland, Republic of Korea, Saudi Arabia, Scotland, Singapore, South Africa, Sweden, USA, Wales, Zambia and Zimbabwe.

Many had lived in the Waipā district for several years and Pettit took note that he recognised some of them.

“You’re already part of our Waipā whānau or family and today marks the next step. It’s a proud moment for us all,” he said.

“Each of you makes our district a stronger and a more liveable place. It makes it more connected.

"You help make our towns,

schools, workplaces and neighbourhoods, better places to live - and for that, I thank you.”

The new mayor was enthusiastic to be part of his first citizenship ceremony.

“As someone who is new to the role of mayor, I know a little bit about starting something important. Feeling excitement and wanting to be the best that you can be,” Pettit said.

Groups of about 10 read their oaths and affirmations in unison as friends and family members watched on.

Originally from South Africa, Cambridge resident Lindsay Swanepoel and her family - husband Jean-Jacques and daughters Mila and Leah Swanepoel - were among those welcomed.

“We have been in New Zealand for six years and 5 days.

Waipā has become home, we have made friends that became family and feel part of our community,” Lindsay said

“Waipā is the best of both worlds, beautiful views and hills with the ocean just a short drive away.”

THE GROWTH IS HERE

It’s time to call Florida Gardencare For all pruning and hedges trimmed square

TUESDAY

10:02am, Domestic Flooding, Lucombe Pl

WEDNESDAY

9:47am, Single Car MVC, Maungatautari Rd

2:45pm, Building Alarm & Evacuation, Morrinsville Rd, Ham

6:14pm, Building Alarm & Evacuation, Cambridge Rd

8:47pm, Tree Fire, Maungakawa Reserve

11:39pm, Single Car MVC, Kaipaki Rd

THURSDAY

WEDNESDAY

9:01am, Cardiac Arrest, Ruge Crt

9:55am, Cardiac Arrest, Bryce Street

1:36pm, Building Alarm & Evacuation, Duncan Rd

FRIDAY

9:14am, Smoke in the Vicinity, Oaklea Ln

1:09pm, Building Alarm and evacuation, Ruakura Road

10:59am, Uncontrolled burn o , Tirau Rd

11:56pm, Building Alarm and evacuation, Hautapu Road

1:50pm, Single car MVC, Waikato Expressway

SATURDAY

2:58pm, Workshop re, Veda Ln, Te Awamutu

FRIDAY

3:51pm, Building Alarm & Evacuation, Bellevue Rd

9:07pm, House Fire, Princes St

SUNDAY

8:42am, Building Alarm and evacuation. Maungatautari Road

SUNDAY

12.39am, Smell of Burning, Cowley Dr 4:07pm, 2 Car MVC, Kaipaki Rd

MONDAY

3:53am, Medical assistance, Karapiro Road

7:36am, Cardiac Arrest, King St

8:34am, Building Alarm & Evacuation, Parakiwai Rd CAMBRIDGE

Beekeeper joins fight

By Chris Gardner

Mountain View Honey apiarist Lindy Bennett is building traps to catch bee eating yellow legged hornets.

Anger is mounting over the pace at which the Ministry for Primary Industries acted after two male hornets were found in Auckland six months ago.

The alarm bells were heard by the public only in the last two weeks after the first of a series of queens were found building nests.

The nests have all been discovered in Auckland but Bennett is worried for the thousands of bees she keeps in 50 hives across the Waikato and Bay of Plenty regions.

A single hornet can kill 50 bees in a day and in France the hornets devastated bee populations.

Bennett’s hives produced 1000 kilograms of honey last season.

“It’s disappointing to hear about the incursion, but we’re hopeful Biosecurity NZ can get on top of it quickly. We are following updates closely and ready

to support local monitoring efforts if needed,” Bennett said.

“The potential spread south is a real concern. Hornets could have a big impact on bees, and that would flow on to pollination and honey production.”

Bennett has hives near Mounts Kakepuku, Maunganui, Ruapehu and Pirongia as well as in Waitomo and is installing the traps near her hives.

She creates a grape juice, sugar, and water syrup which is poued into a bottle with a hole cut in the side.

Northland conservationist Brad Windust warns the country has only “one summer” to resolve the problem.

“When two male Asian hornets were discovered six months ago, it could only mean one thing: a queen hornet had made its way into the country, built a nest, and gone undercover last summer,” Windust said.

“As far as I’m aware MPI didn’t even bother to tell the public. That nest would have released hundreds of queens last autumn, each capable of dispersing up to 34 km.

Thousands of traps should go out in

a grid across the Auckland region and thousands more in the summer months to catch live worker hornets so that tiny tracking devices can be attached, allowing them to be tracked back to their nest and then can be destroyed, he said.

From darkness to clay

By Chris Gardner

Lee

Johnston

battled depression when his father died when he was only 15.

“I had my own things going on when I was a young fella,” said the Maungatautari potter who is now 61.

“When I lost my dad to cancer I went through a lot of depression. It’s a bit of an epidemic in New Zealand and we have got the highest suicide rates.”

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Cambridge | 07 827 5147

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

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New Zealand has one of the highest suicide rates in the OECD with 617 deaths in 2023-24. Males are more than twice as likely to die by suicide than females.

Johnston chose to open up with The News about his journey back from depression to mark Movember, the annual campaign to raise awareness of men’s health.

“Dad was a major part of my life, and I was my father’s son. He was only 51 and no one had answers for me. I had no support.”

Johnston came from a family who worked hard in the week, relaxed at the weekend, and did not talk about struggles. He said he lost himself in alcohol and fled to Australia where he nearly ended it all.

But something stopped him.

“I started to get my life back together and I found more answers than I expected,” he said. “I came out the other side.”

Returning to New Zealand, Johnston spent some time training to become a councillor and worked for a while in that field. He then spent 20 years in the film industry, involved in set dressing and props.

About five years ago Johnston and his partner turned their hands to throwing pottery and establish Memento Mori Ceramics in the foothills of Sanctuary Mountain Maungatautari.

When The Mandarin Tree Art Gallery director Claudia Aalderink asked Johnston to exhibit in the Boys Will Be Boys exhibition staged in November to support men’s health, he was all in.

Each piece in the exhibition tells its own story, contributing to a larger conversation about the need for better care, resources, and support for men’s health issues.

“This show is about more than art,” said Aalderink

“It’s about untangling what we’ve been taught to believe about masculinity, strength, vulnerability, and

identity.”

“I want this exhibition to hold space for real voices. The artist’s voice. Their voice is important. Their perspective matters. We hope to shift the narrative together.”

Koh Kazama in concert

Detailed (9)

Wagon (4)

(9)

Impudence (US) (4)

Across: 1. Able, 4. Urgent, 8. Malaria, 9. Molar, 10. Soya, 11. Scrounge, 13. Pragmatic, 17. Withdraw, 19. Pail, 21. Sushi, 22. Inflate, 23. Method, 24. Reek.

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6.

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CountryLife

NOVEMBER 2025

From farm to fame

Zealong Tea Estate is brewing more than just globally acclaimed teas on land that was once a dairy farm. Mary Anne Gill visits Gordonton in Waikato to uncover the innovation and international acclaim stirring beneath the land.

Gigi Crawford has another plan up her sleeve.

The Zealong Tea Estate chief executive is brimming with ideas and has built a team eager to bring her creative visions to life.

The latest is a tea-based cocktail she believes will be a hit with guests. During a team meeting, the Zealong staff brainstormed name ideas and came up with Waikato Sunrise.

“In Singapore, they have the Singapore Sling, so we wanted something that said Waikato,” says Crawford, referencing the general scenic beauty of the region at dawn and particularly the view over the Gordonton tea plantation.

It’s surreal to think our tea, grown right here in the mighty Waikato, is now enjoyed across the globe.

– Gigi Crawford

The estate has been recognised in a book called “150 Tea Houses You Need to Visit Before You Die.”

celebrate with Crawford, general manager Sen Kong and other Zealong staff.

From traditional Japanese tea houses to modern, trendy hot spots in global cities, each tea house has its own story, ambience, and unique tea experience.

The cocktail – created by Annalyn Walen - uses Zealong’s green heart tea, yuzu, elderflower and either vodka or gin.

While the team toasted their new creation, they had another reason to celebrate.

Zealong is the only commercial tea estate in New Zealand and produces organic, award-winning teas (green, black, and oolong).

Newly-elected Waikato mayor Aksel Bech, Hamilton and Waikato Tourism chief executive Nicola Greenwell and NZ Trade and Enterprise customer manager Lisa Marcroft were on hand to

It marked Waikato Sunrise’s debut along with one of Zealong’s Signature High Teas and tea tasting.

Bech told The News he had sampled just about every experience at the estate and was thrilled to give the cocktail a go.

“Zealong is not just a local success but it’s actually a national icon of quality, innovation and sustainability.

“It’s a world class brand producing premium teas that are now right across the world.

“It is so much more than about tea – it’s the manaakitanga

Continued page 20

Later Life Relationship Property and Succession Planning

Later-life planning is essential to making sure our wishes are respected and followed. This also applies to relationship property.

It is common for people to end and start new relationships later in life. When you enter a new relationship later in life, you also bring along your life’s work in terms of your property and legacy. Your property becomes available for potential division with your new partner, or their estate. Relationship property can be divided not only on separation, but also on death. A claim can be made either by or against an estate.

There are many good reasons to want to avoid your property being divided in this way. A common reason is a desire to provide for your children from a previous relationship, or to properly balance your legacy to children and step-children. Or it may be to simply avoid costly disputes and have more control over how your own estate is administered. When you are making plans for your future and succession, it is prudent to consider “contracting out” of the default rules for dividing relationship property at the end of a relationship. A “contracting out” agreement can work alongside your will and other estate planning, to help ensure your property is administered according to your wishes. It can help minimise risk of claims against you by your deceased partner’s estate. No matter your circumstances, contact Your Lawyers to help you design a succession plan that works best for you.

Jadin Hooper

From farm to fame

Continued from page 19

(hospitality, kindness, and support) that every visitor will feel when they come here, whether local or international.”

“It’s a unique experience that really envelopes the visitor with a really authentic connection to these very special Waikato soils.

“Excellence has grown right out of the soil here,” he says praising Zealong’s transformation from dairy farm to global tea icon.

“Yes we know we can put some cows out there and produce some milk, but what we’ve done here is so much more …. and that’s a real testament to Zealong in the spirit of showing what is possible.”

Crawford says inclusion in the book was special.

“We have always believed in our story and are honoured to have it shared in these pages,” says Crawford.

“It’s surreal to think that our tea, grown right here in the mighty Waikato, is now enjoyed and stocked on

shelves across the globe.

“To receive this kind of international recognition is a huge honour and a testament to the unwavering passion and commitment of everyone at Zealong,” she says.

“The dedicated team at Zealong consistently strives for and delivers perfection in every interaction with manuhiri (visitors), ensuring that every guest enjoys a fantastic and memorable experience,” says Greenwell.

Waikato has the ideal combination of abundant rainfall, sunshine, freedraining acidic soil and the right temperature for growing tea. The famous fog also plays its part in ensuring that the plants enjoy the good level of moisture they need to thrive.

Zealong produces an annual harvest of 20 tonnes from 1.2 million tea plants on 48 hectares of land. Tea pickers – some from Taiwan and others from around New Zealand – started work the day after the book celebration.

The estate was founded

in 1996 – there’s another set of ideas whizzing around in Crawford’s head, how to celebrate the 30th birthday. It was once a dairy farm – the original farmhouse is still on the estate as are the camellia bushes which thrive in the same conditions as tea plants.

Zealong founder Vincent Chen saw how well camellias did and decided to give tea a go initially importing 1500 tea cuttings from Taiwan. Only 130 survived New Zealand’s quarantine protocols.

Drinking tea is an integral part of many cultures, particularly in Asia.

New Zealanders rank eighth globally in tea consumption, averaging 1.19kg per person annually - well behind Turkey, where residents consume 3.16kg each, equivalent to 1300 cups a year.

The most popular varieties in New Zealand are English breakfast, black, green, Earl Grey and fruit infusions.

Horticulture rewards reaped

New Zealand’s growing horticultural sector is set to reap the rewards from the appointment of Horticultural Production and Postharvest Management Professor Andrew East.

During more than 15 years of leadership in postharvest horticulture at Te Kunenga

ki Pūrehuroa Massey University, East has gained international recognition for his expertise in postharvest horticulture: the science and technology systems that enable the successful global trade of fresh produce.

East is particularly well known for his relationship

with the kiwifruit industry, through Zespri, and assisting the sector with processes and technology when new cultivars are commercialised. His appointment has been made possible by a donation of $1.6 million by philanthropist Matthew Abel.

Briefs…

Improvement seen

New Zealand is making progress in the fight against anti-microbial resistance, with sales of veterinary and horticultural antibiotics falling for the seventh consecutive year, says New Zealand Food Safety’s (NZFS) deputy directorgeneral Vincent Arbuckle.

Levels set

Maximum residue levels for glyphosate in wheat, barley and oats have been set at a limit of 0.1mg/kg and a restrict use of glyphosate for these arable crops. Agricultural chemicals, like glyphosate, are critical for farmers and growers because they help manage outbreaks of pests and diseases, reduce the risks to plant and animal health.

Master plan

The New Zealand National Fieldays Society board will develop a new master plan to guide the future of Mystery Creek Events Centre.

Floods increase New research led by Earth Sciences New Zealand reveals that more than 750,000 New Zealanders live in locations exposed to flooding from one-in100-year rainfall flooding events and this number could increase to more than 900,000 with a further three degrees of warming due to climate change. The findings come from the culmination of a five-year research programme looking at flood risk across New Zealand.

Money secured

Waikato-based agri-tech start-up Aimer Farming has secured a $NZ750,000 capital investment from Cultivate Ventures to grow its team, speed up development of mobile, drone, and satellite solutions, and launch into international markets. Aimer Farming develops AI-powered tools to help farmers optimise pasture and livestock management.

Forest, farms and fresh starts

Government regulations are slowing the pine conversion trend in rural New Zealand, while dairy, kiwifruit, and lifestyle properties are seeing renewed interest from local buyers and urban escapees. Jon Rawlinson reports.

Recently introduced government regulations appear to be curbing largescale farm conversions to forestry, according to REINZ rural spokesperson Shane O’Brien.

“We’ve already noticed less demand for forestry land, mainly due to tighter government rules,” he says.

“It’s become a bit of a hot potato, and buyers are

being very cautious.”

Concerns have been mounting - especially in sheep and beef regionsthat too much productive farmland is being lost to pine.

While forestry has its benefits, pine plantations don’t contribute to local communities in the same way traditional farms do.

In response, the

government introduced new rules earlier this year.

“A lot of farmers have felt forestry was destroying communities and no one really likes forest next door because of animals, such as pigs, wandering out and causing damage, as well as an added fire risk and because weeds aren't being controlled.”

While pine may be losing favour, the outlook for dairy is optimistic.

“(Recent stats show) the dairy industry is clearly going well and existing operators are looking to take the opportunity from good milk payouts and lower interest rates to further develop their farms,” O’Brien says.

“As Waikato has a strong dairy infrastructure and base, a lot of the interest in buying dairy farms is predominantly local. So, mostly, it’s coming

from farmers who are growing their businesses.”

In the Bay of Plenty, kiwifruit remains the top pick among buyers.

“The REINZ statistics show that the biggest part of the rural real estate market in the Bay of Plenty is still horticulture,” O’Brien says.

“Compared to 12 months ago, there's more positivity in the horticultural sector. It's been tough going for avocado growers, and I don't think that's going to change quickly, but kiwifruit is still strong.”

As for lifestyle properties, Auckland’s tightening landuse policies appear to be fuelling demand further afield.

With the Supercity aiming to protect prime farmland while increasing housing supply, lifestyle blocks have become harder to find.

This appears to have fed added interest in lifestyle property in Waikato and the Bay of Plenty.

“Yes, there is more demand for lifestyle property in these areas,” O’Brien says.

“Waikato's far more accessible now due to the expressway. Post-Covid, more people are working from home and the idea of living in the country has become more attractive and practical.

“So, we're expecting the lifestyle market to remain pretty positive and active in these regions overall as well.”

Success for sisters and goats

By Jesse Wood

The Neilson-Smith sisters have had a busy few months proudly showing their goats in agricultural competitions across Waipā and the Waikato - and learning plenty about responsibility along the way.

Pāterangi School students Erika, 11, Anna, 8, and Paris, 5, have put in the hard yards to nurture and display their calf club pets.

Midnight, Star and Lilly respectively have become the centre of the sisters’ world since arriving on August 13.

“It’s the first time Paris has had a calf club goat, this will be Anna’s third goat and Erika has had a mixture of lambs and goats since she was 5,” mum Laura NeilsonSmith said.

“They share knowledge and talk with each other. They work together.”

Laura said the girls have had a

wonderful time playing racing goats in the paddock, tag and jumping on large rocks with their furry friends.

“I even discovered Erika sleeping in the sun with the goats one day,” Laura said.

“The girls made their bottles every morning and night and worked together to mix milk for the selffeeder that was used during the day.

“They also had to take turns at cleaning the self-feeder that all three goats used.

“Unfortunately we can’t keep the goats after every season.”

After school they would give their goats pellets and play with them in the paddock.

Older sister Michelle, 13, also got involved.

She set up a ring with a ramp, rounds of wood and planks to walk over.

After a successful Pāterangi School agricultural day, the trio entered the combined agricultural

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day in Kihikihi.

Anna and Star placed first in rearing and was reserve champion for leading.

Paris and Lilly were second in rearing, third in leading and sixth in most obvious pet.

Erika and Midnight grabbed second place in rearing and fourth for most obvious pet.

At the Waikato Show boys and girls agriculture day, hosted in Hamilton at Claudelands showgrounds, the accolades kept coming. Laura said it was great to have Te Awamutu’s Wilma van der Hulst as a judge.

The trio and their goats won group of three, also taking home placings in their respective sections.

Smarter ways to deliver

By Liz Stolwyk, Waipā-King Country regional councillor Landowners

across the Waikato have once again stepped up to protect and enhance our environment, partnering with Waikato Regional Council to complete 347 voluntary environmental projects in 2024/25.

Together, these efforts have retired 1140 hectares of unproductive land and resulted in nearly 570,000 trees planted across the region.

In Waipā/King Country alone, landowners planted more than 100,000 native trees and shrubs, protected 14,815 metres of streambank, and retired around 90 hectares of erosion-prone land.

These community-driven projects show that real progress can be made when councils and landowners work side by side.

Our focus as a council remains clear: finding smarter and more efficient ways to deliver meaningful environmental outcomes. We know the challenges are complex, but the success of these projects shows that practical, local action works.

Meanwhile Warren Maher has been unanimously elected as the new Waikato Regional Council chair. Warren brings three years of valuable experience from his previous term and a steady, pragmatic approach to decision-making.

We also extend our thanks to retiring councillor Stu Kneebone, who has completed an impressive 15 years of service. Stu’s knowledge and commitment to rural communities and environmental policy have left a lasting mark.

A new committee structure is being

established, there’s already lively debate around the number of committees! I’m optimistic that the experienced voices around the table will help shape a constructive start to this triennium.

Plan Change One continues its progress through the Environment Court and one of the first decisions council made was to request a two to three month extension of this decision to enable an economic impact analysis to take place.

I understand the anxiety among rural communities - it is very much the “hot potato” of the moment. Be assured, extensive discussions are underway to find a balanced path that protects our environment while sustaining a strong rural economy.

The other “hot potato” is our commitment to rates control and efficiency. Ratepayers can expect a strong focus on delivering better outcomes for every dollar spent.

Did you know that nearly 43 per cent of Waikato’s landscape is at high risk of soil erosion?

Our region’s steep slopes, high rainfall, and weathered geology make it especially vulnerable - and the challenge is even greater in our hill-country farming areas.

Targeted funding remains available, and we’re encouraging hill-country landowners in the Waipā/King Country to get in touch with the council. Whether it’s fencing off a stream, planting natives, or restoring a hillside, every project makes a difference.

A final congratulations to all elected members of the Waikato Region – I look forward to meeting and working with you all. To all ratepayers - my phone is always on and I’m always happy to meet.

Erosion funding

Funding remains available to support Waikato farmers in preventing hill country erosion, particularly in priority areas where land is highly susceptible due to steep slopes, high rainfall, and weathered geology.

In these farming regions, erosion risk increases when land lacks protective vegetation or is poorly managed. Climate change is expected to intensify these risks, especially on steep slopes - making it even more important to build resilience now and into the future.

Soil erosion can reduce farm productivity, damage infrastructure, and degrade water quality. High sediment levels affect river clarity, harm aquatic ecosystems, and diminish the cultural and recreational value of waterways.

Since the hill country erosion programme began, significant progress has been made in priority catchments.

Landowners have planted poplars and other trees to stabilise vulnerable slopes and reduce sediment runoff.

Some have retired steep,

low-productivity land or preserved bush remnants, allowing them to manage their better land more strategically.

Waikato Regional Council’s Waipā and West Coast Zone Manager, Paul Smith, says there’s much to celebratebut also more to do.

“We encourage anyone farming hill country within the Waipā and West Coast priority catchments to contact us about what projects might be beneficial, just give us a call to get the ball rolling.”

Leamington 79 Moore Street

Rivers edge - Tamahere luxury lifestyle

This is something truly special - an exceptional lifestyle property where luxury living meets the beauty of the Waikato River. Perfectly positioned just 10 minutes from Cambridge and 15 to Hamilton, this stunning 4.2ha Tamahere property sits proudly at the end of a private, tree-lined driveway. With easy access to the Tamahere Country Walkway and Te Awa River Ride across the road, and the revered St Peters School only minutes down the road, this is a secluded retreat in one of the Waikato's most desirable rural locations. At the heart of the property is a beautifully designed 400sqm (approx) family home, built with tilt-slab construction for timeless strength and style. The openplan kitchen, dining, and living areas flow seamlessly to a separate formal lounge and a spectacular glass-enclosed portico featuring an impressive open fireplace with an inbuilt pizza oven - the ultimate year-round entertaining space, complete with heated tiles. The master suite is a true retreat, with a luxurious ensuite fitted with a Bluetooth speaker, and a generous walk-in robe with more than enough shoe space to keep any lady happy.

Tender closes 4.00pm, Thu 20th Nov, 2025 (unless sold prior), 34 Victoria Street, Cambridge View Sun 16 Nov 11.00 - 12.00pm Web pb.co.nz/CBL209862

Chris Moore

M 027 288 0563

E chris.moore@pb.co.nz

Teresa Moore

M 027 288 0553

E teresa.moore@pb.co.nz

A Timeless Treasure in Cambridge East

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- Open-plan, modern kitchen, dining and family area with French doors opening to the private courtyard. Spacious separate lounge.

- 3 generous bedrooms (two with access to the wrap around deck). Open Homes Saturday & Sunday 11.00 - 11.30am

ensuite & a custom kitchen with Kwila benchtops & induction cooking. Add to that LED lighting, heat pump HRV, reclad garage with new concrete and interior/exterior repaint.

Homes Saturday 2 - 2.30pm & Sunday 3 - 3.30pm

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Closes 21/11/2025, 4pm

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Market Appraisal

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NICHOLLS, John Stanton

– Peacefully at his home on Sunday, 2 November 2025, aged 89 years. Beloved husband of the late Mavis. Loved dad of Jackie, Tony, and Andrew and Lucy. Loved grandad of Charlie and Freddie. Messages to the ‘Nicholls Family’ can be sent c/- Grinter’s Funeral Home, 3 Hallys Lane, Cambridge 3434 or in John’s online tribute book at www.grinters. co.nz. A private service has been held.

NICHOLLS, John – Died peacefully on 2nd November aged 89. Beloved uncle of Sarah, Steve, Max & Oscar. Will be sadly missed by

RIP

DAW, David John – Passed away on Sunday, 9th November 2025 at Bupa Eventhorpe Care Home, aged 65 years. Brother of William, Ian and Helen. Special thanks to the staff at Bupa Eventhorpe for their care of David in his final days, after his short time in their care. In accordance with David’s wishes, a private cremation has been held. Messages to the Daw family may be sent c/- 3 Hallys Lane, Cambridge 3434, or left in David’s online tribute book at www.grinters.co.nz

Moore Street). Each home features a spacious layout, modern finishes, and an internal access single car garage. Now renting for $675 - Perfect for families or professionals. Contact Brooke today - 027 700 9640 Manor Realty Property Management Ltd Brand New Homes on Fable Way, Leamington

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If not satisfied with the response, the complaint may be referred to the Media Council P O Box 10-879, The Terrace, Wellington 6143. Or use the online complaint form at www. mediacouncil.org.nz

GARAGE SALE Household furniture, housewares, garden & garage tools, paint and general items. 34 Ihimaera Terrace, Leamington. Saturday 15 November. 7am to 11am

Something for everyone. Saturday 15 November. 58 Redoubt Rd, Cambridge. Start 7am. Download the Cambridge News App to see more news and photos.

Please include copies of the article and all correspondence with the publication.

WAIPA DISTRICT COUNCIL MEETING NOTICES

Pursuant to Section 46 of the Local Government Official Information and Meetings Act 1987 notice is hereby given that:

The following meetings will take place in November 2025: Wednesday, Inaugural Te Awamutu and 12 November, 2025 Kihikihi Community Board Meeting 6.00pm Council Chambers 101 Bank Street TE AWAMUTU

Friday, Council Meeting 14 November, 2025

9.10am Council Chambers 101 Bank Street TE AWAMUTU

This meeting was unable to be notified earlier due to the election period. The details of this meeting including the subject matter and resolutions can be found on the council website under the Meetings and Agendas page.

All meeting information and electronic copies of Council agendas are available at waipadc.govt.nz/agendasandminutes

Steph

O’Sullivan Chief Executive

PLAN CHANGE 26 TO THE WAIPĀ DISTRICT PLAN

PUBLIC NOTIFICATION OF MINISTER’S DECISIONS ON REFERRED INDEPENDENT HEARING PANEL RECOMMENDATIONS PURSUANT TO CLAUSE 106 OF THE FIRST SCHEDULE OF THE RESOURCE MANAGEMENT ACT 1991

The Minister Responsible for RMA Reform has made his decisions on recommendations of the IHP for PC26 that were referred to him by Waipā District Council. These decisions were received by Waipā District Council on October 16, 2024. This notice acts as public notification of the Minister’s decision as required by Clause 106(1) of the First Schedule of the Resource Management Act.

Recommendations accepted by the Minister:

• Map the Infrastructure Constraint Qualifying Matter Overlay to cover the full extent of the Medium Density Residential Zone; and

• Amend Rule 2A.4.2.8 to read: On sites located within the Stormwater Qualifying Matter Overlay, the maximum site coverage must not exceed 40% of the net site area

Recommendations rejected by the Minister:

• Reinstate provisions specific to relocated buildings; and

• Remove new financial contribution provisions.

The Ministers reasons for rejecting these recommendations are:

• Proposed requirements for relocated buildings would add to the complexity and cost of relocating buildings and are not justified by any effects specifically arising from relocated buildings.

• The removal of the relocated building provisions is also better aligned with Policy 6(b) of the National Policy Statement on Urban Development.

• There is insufficient evidence to justify the scale of change sought by the Council through its alternative recommendation on financial contributions.

• The IHP’s financial contribution recommendation is supported by a robust body of evidence, which has been tested through a fulsome hearings process. Where to view the decisions

This public notice and the Minister’s decision can be viewed at the following:

• Online at Proposed Plan Change 26 – Residential Zone Intensification - Waipa District Council (waipadc.govt.nz)

• At Waipā District Council offices and libraries in Te Awamutu and Cambridge

Stephanie O’Sullivan Chief

Executive

For and on behalf of Waipā District Council

NOTICE OF AGM

1st December 2025

Monday, 7.30pm Held in the Clubrooms 5 MacLean St, Cambridge AGENDA 1. Apologies

Minutes of Previous AGM & any matters arising

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