King Country News | April 16, 2026

Jack’s shear delight

By Dan Tasker

Jack Fagan delivered a fairytale finish, winning his first New Zealand Shears open title at his home event to mark a memorable 40th anniversary.

The Shearing Capital of the World had not seen a homegrown shearer win the open final since 2010, when Fagan’s father and one of Te Kūiti’s favourite sons Sir David Fagan won his 17th and final NZ Shears.

But in his first NZ Shears open final, this was to be ‘Jack the Ripper’s’ night – Te Kūiti’s night – seeing off a field featuring former champion Leon Samuels and defending champion Toa Henderson to book his spot on the NZ team on the tour to Europe kicking off in late June.

“I have literally dreamt about moments like this, and I’ve been 12 years chasing this show and it’s actually my first time ever in the final,” Fagan said after receiving the Alastair Simpson Memorial Trophy.

“To the people of Te Kūiti, thank you very much. You better batten down the hatches, not because of the storm that’s coming, but because we’re about to have one hell of a party.

“Digger Balme, we’re going to (Europe) brother, and Hemi (Braddick) – man I’m excited, it’s going to be pretty sweet.”

The 25-sheep final became a drag race between Fagan, hunting his first NZ Shears title in his first finals appearance, and Henderson, the 2025 champion looking to become the fourth shearer to defend his NZ Shears open title in 40 years.

Fagan led by a nose as he changed his handpiece heading into his twelfth sheep, momentarily giving up his advantage to Henderson until the Kaiwaka shearer switched blades two sheep later.

The pair nipped at each other’s heals for the duration, and it was Henderson who wrestled the time advantage his way as he

dispatched his last sheep to stop the clock at 18:57.25 minutes – almost three seconds clear of Fagan.

But it was Fagan who had the judges’ favour with superior board and penalty points to take the win (65.203), ahead of Roxburgh’s Samuels (66.631) and Masterton shearer David Gordon (67.234) for third.

Along with NZ team manager Digger Balme (Ōtorohanga), Fagan will don the black singlet on the European tour of the United Kingdom, France and Wales with Eketāhuna’s Hemi Braddick, who booked his plane ticket as the top New Zealand shearer in the NZ Shears Circuit final.

He was beaten to the buzzer by ‘The Flying Scotsman’ Gavin Mutch (55.550) for the national circuit title, but with Mutch having represented Scotland, the spot on the NZ team went to the next highest finishing Kiwi in the form of Braddick (55.778).

In the other events headlining finals night, Logan Kamura of Marton (58.860) was the clear winner in the open woolhandling final, winning his first New Zealand Shears woolhandling title ahead of Eketāhuna woolhandler Marika Braddick (65.000) and Te Kūiti’s Keryn Herbert (68.894).

Mataura’s Dre Roberts (46.300) snuck home to win the senior shearing final thanks to his better board and penalty points against the fast-finishing Golden Shears senior champion Taelor Tarrant (46.881) of Taumarunui, with Cody Waihape (Mataura) rounding out the top three (47.245).

In the Whanau Teams Event final, the Oamaru father-son pairing of Justin and Tye Meikle were victorious in a stacked field, ahead of Hastings’ Peter and Brook Chilcott in second and David and Jack Fagan (Te Kūiti) in third.

Museum’s tribute to shears

By Dan Tasker

The Te Kūiti Museum and Gallery celebrated the 40th edition of the New Zealand Shears with a special exhibition on Saturday.

Shearing memorabilia was to the fore, the exhibition displaying a shrine of everything that has made the NZ Shears great since its inception in Te Kūiti in 1985.

Te Kūiti and Districts Historical Charitable Trust committee member Russell Aldridge said the exhibit was a salute to the impact shearing has had on the local community.

“Ever since we started the museum in this building in 2006, we tried to cover nearly everything around the district with a big emphasis on stuff in the King Country. The shears has always been a major business in town here once a year, very well patronised,” Aldridge said.

“We’ve been lucky in the King Country to have had so many real top shearers. It started from when Snow Quinn was champion and Tom Brough, and then through to the McDonalds and Fagans.

“We’ve had a great run of really top shearers here and that’s why we’re so keen on presenting this.

“If people care to spend a bit of time and read what we’ve got here and take it all in, it’s quite educational. It gives people, young people especially, a bit of education into the shearing industry, which is good,” he said.

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A summary of how the shears got started through thousands of volunteer hours, listing the first open shearing finalists, former presidents, life members and committee service awards adorn the main part of the display.

Along with photos from previous events

including the first King Country Shears event in 1985, it outlines innovations to the event including the ‘Running of the Sheep’ and pays tribute to notable shearers and tips the hat to Te Kūiti, known as the ‘Shearing Capital of the World’ since 1994.

A framed sketch of Te Kūiti’s shearing statue, which was opened in 1994, is arguably one of

It was great to see a large turnout at the National Shearing Championships in Te Kuiti, with attendees enjoying the atmosphere and activities throughout the event.

During the running of the sheep, police assisted with a fouryear-old child who had wandered off from their family. Thankfully, officers located the child quickly, around the same time the family were reporting them missing. The child was safely reunited with their family without further issue.

Unfortunately, police also received reports of disorderly behaviour and a fight involving several young males on Rora Street during the event. Two 18-year-old males were arrested and removed from the area to prevent the situation escalating. One of the males was issued a pre-charge warning for possession of cannabis and fighting in a public place.

In Te Kuiti, a 23-year-old male was issued a summons for driving while disqualified after police observed him driving past the Te Kuiti Police Station. The vehicle he was driving was impounded.

Following a separate vehicle stop in Te Kuiti, another male was summonsed to court for driving while disqualified. A passenger in

the most interesting part of the exhibit, noting key drivers and insights relating to the statue project.

A shearing documentary plays on a small television alongside cuts of wool, old sacks, shearing slippers and multiple generations of shearing kit, including an old Stewart ballbearing sheep shearing machine.

the vehicle was arrested after being found to have an active warrant to arrest.

He was provided with a new court date, and the vehicle was impounded.

Police also followed up with a 23-year-old female, who was summonsed to court for driving while disqualified and a petrol drive off theft that had occurred out of district.

A 42-year-old male was arrested in Te Kuiti and charged with a family harm-related assault, along with several charges for breaching a protection order relating to incidents that occurred late last year.

In Ōtorohanga, Police arrested a 40-year-old male after he breached his electronic bail conditions by leaving his approved address without permission.

Police also located and arrested a 26-year-old male in Ōtorohanga who had recently been released from prison and returned to the area in breach of his release conditions. He has since been remanded back into custody.

As always, thank you to the community for your ongoing support. Please continue to report crime and any suspicious behaviour.

River Care expo.

King Country River Care will host a rural expo next Wednesday at the Les Munro Centre in Te Kūiti. The event will look at tools, technology and service to support farm operations.

LED leaders

Genesis Energy hopes to turn Te Kiti into the country’s first all-LED lit community.

Residents can swap their old bulbs for free LEDs throughout the month at the Waitomo District Council.

Genesis says replacing around 15 inefficient bulbs could save a household saving up to $300 a year.

Planning ahead

Chief Executive Mike Fox says The Lines Company’s just released 2026 asset management plan, outlining how it will continue to invest in its network, reflects a year of preparation and planning, focused on strengthening foundations. The plan prioritises long-term investment in the network and improving the condition of poles and lines.

Whales harassed

The conservation department wants to identify people who were in several boats allegedly harassing a pod of orca in Raglan’s Whāingaroa harbour last month. Waikato Operations Manager Niwha Jones says a witness contacted DOC after the March 23 incident. It is an offence to purposefully approach orca closer than 50 metres, or in a way that disturbs them.

Water woes

Waipā councillors held a behind closed doors workshop last week where they aired concerns about Waikato Waters – which Ōtorohanga and Waitomo is signed up to - and spiralling redundancy costs. The News understands the bill has exceeded the council’s budgeted costs for the company which begins operating under the Government’s Local Water Done Well policy on July 1.

New honour, old friends

By Roy Pilott

Chap was the pitcher for the Ōtorohanga Giants - Tom was the catcher.

That was the softball for Ōtorohanga College then the King Country senior team. Then there was the rugby they played together at Ōtorohanga College.

Near neighbours Chap and Tom left school and went different ways as sports became less of a passion and more of a past time.,

But on Saturday, decades on, the life-long friends were on the same ground again – Chap to acknowledge Tom - a man he said had “mana without ego, leadership without distance and aroha without conditions”.

Chap or Chappie – Arnold Anderson – was one of a host of speakers who stood to acknowledge Tom Roa, who had just returned from Wellington where Governor General Dame Cindy Kiro made him a Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit (CNZM).

The event, hosted by Ngāti Maniapoto was held at Tārewānga marae , adjacent to Ōtorohanga College and drew more than 200 people – including Dame Coral

Shaw, who returned home to Pirongia the previous day with her medal.

“He was Tom and I was Chip,” Anderson explained. “We were two boys who played sport, who walked to Ōtorohanga South then Ōtorohanga College… and we played rugby on this paddock.

“Today he still calls me Chip... not Arnold or Mr Anderson. Being here is a great honour.”

And, seconds after modest Tom Roa encouraged him to finish speaking, he told him: “you deserve every honour this country can give you”.

Roa, who was honoured for his work in keeping te reo Māori alive, also heard tributes from University of Waikato vice chancellor Neil Quigley, the chair of the Waikato mayoral forum and Hamilton Mayor Tim Macindoe, the chair of Waikato-Tainui’s executive arm, Te Arataura, Rahui Papa and, later over dinner, former Hamilton mayor Margaret Evans, Dame Coral Shaw, professor Sandy Morrison and a history of efforts made to keep te reo alive presented by Māori language advocate Cathy Dewes.

Rahui Papa said Tom Roa was an exemplar of fighting the good fight,

and his time as Waikato University, where he is a professor in the Faculty of Māori and Indigenous Studies, was “a marriage made in heaven”.

He recalled how two Otorohanga college students – Leah Bell and Waimarama Anderson – another member of the well-known Anderson family – spearheaded a 10,000 strong petition in 2015 challenging the government to set aside a day to remember the 19thcentury Land Wars. Their efforts

led to the establishment of Rā Maumahara – an annual national day of remembrance on October 28. There were 177 recipients in the New Year’s Honours. Coral Shaw was one of seven knights and dames named. She became a Dame Companions of the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to public service, the judiciary and the community. Tom Roa became a Companion of the order for services to Māori language and education.

Hipkins in town to ‘touch base’

Labour leader Chris Hipkins was in Ōtorohanga this week in the wake of one storm – to check how the community had responded to another one.

And he said that as climate change takes hold, the country is vulnerable to a cyclone season and must prepare infrastructure accordingly.

Where towns had one bridge in and out, questions had to be asked about how to build resilience.

On February 13 Ōtorohanga was hit by more than 150mm of rain in 12 hours - resulting in considerable flooding at Ōtorohanga Primary school.

The Mangati Bridge between Pirongia and Ōtorohanga was taken out by the storm and a temporary bridge subsequently installed.

Hipkins said he was in town to touch base, see what the needs were and advocate.

Photos of flooding did not tell the full story, he said – the repair work at the school required a big undertaking and it was important to note because some small communities felt forgotten in the aftermath of storm damage.

Hipkins’ programme also included a meeting with firefighters, police, Māori wardens and mayor Rodney Dow.

Oil Shock squeezes Kiwi farmers, but we adapt… again.

by Barbara Kuriger, MP for Taranaki-King Country

For New Zealand farmers, the Middle East oil crisis feels a long way from the woolshed or the milking shed — but its impacts are already turning up in monthly accounts. Higher fuel prices hit every part of the rural economy. From running tractors and irrigators, to trucking stock and carting feed, diesel and petrol are stitched into the cost of almost everything a farmer does. When the price of oil spikes, it doesn’t just show up at the pump. Freight costs rise, fertiliser and farm inputs become more expensive, and contractors have to pass on higher operating costs. For many farmers already squeezed by soft commodity prices and tighter bank lending, this adds yet another layer of pressure. It’s easy, in this environment, for frustration to turn into anxiety. But it’s worth keeping perspective. New Zealand farmers have weathered oil shocks, droughts, disease outbreaks, and market collapses before. Each time, the sector has adapted through efficiency gains, smarter use of technology, and working together at a community level.

There are practical steps farmers can take now: reviewing fuel contracts, coordinating freight with neighbours, cutting non-essential trips, and ensuring machinery runs efficiently. These won’t erase the impact of higher prices, but they can soften the blow and buy time.

Government has a role to play too, by providing targeted, temporary support that eases the immediate pressure on working families and rural communities without fuelling inflation or piling up unsustainable debt. Reckless, untargeted spending today risks even higher interest rates and input costs tomorrow. We can’t control conflict in the Middle East or the global oil market. What we can control is how we respond: staying calm, backing good policy, supporting one another, and trusting that, as we have many times before, New Zealand farming will see this thing through.

Alan: a life of service

Former Waipā mayor and Waikato Regional Council chair Alan Livingston has died aged 74, leaving a regional legacy and a very personal imprint on those who knew him, writes Mary Anne Gill.

Two months ago, Alan Livingston watched as his beloved Te Pahū community bore the brunt of February flooding.

He was concerned for people, for farms, for the road edges and waterways that never quite recover after a heavy event, and he did what he so often did - he helped.

Livingston supplied The News with photographs, not for attention, but because he understood that telling a community’s story matters, especially when that community is hurting. It was typical of Alan Livingston: practical, prepared and public-spirited to the core.

That same sense of duty - shaped earlier in Te Pahū and carried through a lifetime - sits at the heart of the tributes flowing following his sudden death.

Former prime minister Helen Clark, who grew up alongside Livingston in Te Pahū, said the news came as a shock. The Livingstons and Clarks all attended Te Pahū Primary School together in the 1950s and 1960s.

“Our parents were family friends and we knew them well. Alan’s family was public spirited and involved in the community as mine was. It was therefore no surprise to see Alan make a long contribution to local and regional government where he was always a diligent leader.”

Clark said Livingston’s commitment to Te Pahū never faded - even after he stepped away from public office.

She recalled Livingston visiting her father, George Clark, one last time in June last year.

“They talked about old times in Te Pahū. Dad loved the visit,” she said.

Clark said Livingston was in “fine form” when he gave a eulogy at her father’s funeral in December.

“Alan’s untimely death comes as a great shock. My heart goes out to his wife Janet and family at this very sad time.”

Alan Livingston, who had just turned 74 in January, was born in Gisborne and raised in Te Pahū.

He is survived by his wife Janet, their three children - Anna, Megan and Andrew - and nine grandchildren.

He served four terms as mayor of Waipā from 2001 to 2013 and later chaired the Waikwato Regional Council from 2016 to 2019.

In 2014 he was appointed an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to sport and the community.

Waipā mayor Mike Pettit said Livingston was a respected leader, friend and dedicated member of the community.

“Alan cared deeply about this community and worked tirelessly to make it a better place for current and future generations. He will be remembered not only for his achievements, but

for the relationships he built and the respect he earned. He was a true statesman,” said Pettit.

Former mayor Susan O’Regan said Livingston dedicated his life to Waipā - to its people, its land and its prosperity.

“His fingerprints are on so much of what makes this district and region what it is today. He was a devoted family man and a truly great person. He will be deeply missed by many.”

Former Waipā deputy mayor and current Waikato regional councillor Liz Stolwyk said her heart was heavy.

“Alan was a man of integrity and had a genuine commitment to people. His passing leaves a significant void.”

Livingston was a sheep and beef farmer on the northern slopes of Mt Pirongia for more than 30 years and a genuine environmentalist. He did not just talk about protection but put legal and practical structures around it. He and his family protected bush on their own property with two QEII covenants, and in 2023 he was appointed chair of the Queen Elizabeth II National Trust.

That environmental commitment sat alongside deep governance experience across the region, including river and catchment work. It was simply part of how he lived.

But Te Pahū remained his anchor and his support continued long after politics.

His book, Te Pahū, A History, launched in 2021 after years of painstaking research, gave the community something rare - a record of itself, compiled carefully while those stories could still be collected. The launch drew people connected to the district, including Helen Clark who described it as “a major legacy to Te Pahū.”

And that is perhaps the most fitting way to remember him: not only as a former mayor or regional council chair, but as someone who never stopped turning up for the place that raised him - with his time, his knowledge, his insistence on doing things properly, and his belief that communities thrive when people simply help.

Bus service move criticised

By Mary Anne Gill

A bus service relied on by King Country communities for travel to Hamilton is facing an uncertain future, despite growing passenger numbers and strong opposition from community leaders.

The Route 25 Taumarunui service, which travels from the south King Country and stops in Te Kūiti and Ōtorohanga before continuing to Hamilton and returning the same day, will come to an end in late June.

Health NZ, which has confirmed it will withdraw funding, is expected to move to a dedicated health shuttle.

Ruapehu mayor Weston Kirton has criticised the decision, calling it “simply madness” to axe a service that had become a vital transport lifeline for King Country towns.

He said the bus had grown far beyond its original purpose.

Spare seats had been opened up to the public, transforming it into a combined long-distance health shuttle and public transport service.

“This service has become much more than a health shuttle. It is a vital public transport link for Taumarunui and the communities of Te Kūiti, Ōtorohanga and Kihikihi,” Kirton said.

Route 25’s same-day return made it especially valuable, allowing residents to attend hospital appointments, shop, visit whānau and access services in Hamilton without the cost of overnight accommodation - something alternative commercial services do not offer, he said.

Latest Waikato Regional Council figures show passenger numbers on the Taumarunui service lifted last month to 277 users, up from 166 the previous month. The highest number was 325 last year.

Council transport committee chair Angela Strange said Health NZ and Waikato Regional Council had reviewed the model over the past two years and concluded it was no longer fit for purpose.

“The 40-seat bus is not well suited to people with health needs,” Strange said.

“At the same time, there were safety concerns and other challenges associated with combining public users with a health service.”

Strange said Health NZ had been clear through patient feedback and consultation with iwi and community representatives that a dedicated health shuttle was needed.

“To respond to the patient voice and ensure a safe, sustainable and fit-for-purpose service, Health NZ will move to a dedicated health shuttle model and end its contribution to the current joint service.”

The combined public and health service will end on June 26.

The change affects communities along the corridor, including Te Kūiti and Ōtorohanga, where alternatives are limited.

While a Te Kūiti Connector service already operates, patronage remains low and its ability to expand is restricted. Strange said because the trial service is funded through New Zealand Transport Agency low-cost, low-risk funding, any immediate enhancements during the 2024-27 funding period is limited.

Regional councillors will be monitoring both the Te Kūiti Connector and other under-performing routes as they try to balance transport needs against rising costs.

“Unfortunately, Waikato Regional Council is not in a position to run an alternative to the health shuttle,” Strange said. “There is no scope for immediate changes to existing services.”

Health NZ did not respond to a request for comment.

Heat goes on in more homes

A last-minute surge has resulted in nine more Ōtorohanga homes receiving free insulation in time for winter.

In February, concerns were raised that homes in and around the town were missing out on free insulation and heat pumps from Maru Energy Trust. Maru was established by The Lines Company in 2018 to help keep homes across its network warm and dry, keep people well and reduce power bills. It has insulated 1128 homes and installed 557 heat pumps.

In the last eight weeks, Maru team leader Renee Parkes said they had pushed hard to warm up local homes before winter. Maru engaged a community champion, Kim Ingham, and in late February, based itself in the Ōtorohanga Support House.

“It’s made a difference. In the previous financial year, only six Ōtorohanga homes were insulated. This year, we’ve tripled that to 18 that so we’re heading in the right direction.

“We’re pleased numbers are rising and really pleased funding from Ōtorohanga District Council has been used here, in this community,” Parkes said.

“But we know there are big numbers of people still living in cold, damp homes who might qualify for help. In the Ruapehu district for example, we insulated 63 homes last year… a lot more than here.”

Parkes acknowledged there were rental properties in town that did not qualify for free insulation. Under government rules, the trust can only work directly with homeowners.

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NEW NISSAN NAVARA

By Dan Tasker

After a century of whistleblowing, King Country’s rugby referees still haven’t run out of puff.

The association, flying under King Country Rugby Union’s banner, converge on Te Kūiti on Saturday to celebrate 100 years of officiating.

It all kicks off tomorrow night at Waitete Rugby Football Club, golf at Piopio on Saturday morning, then pre-game lunch ahead of the Waitete v Taupo Sports premier club game, topped off by a centenary dinner at Waitete in the evening.

Centenary organiser and referee Kieran Smith said the centenary celebration was “more than just a milestone on a calendar”, but a chance for referees to connect and honour the impact volunteer rugby referees have had on the community.

“It’s a chance to come together and acknowledge the volunteers, commitment and sense of community that have sustained King Country referees for 100 years, while encouraging the next generation to get involved,” Smith said.

“Most importantly, it honours those who have gone before us and reinforces why what we do continues to matter, today and into the future.”

In a rare coup, international

referee and centenary guest speaker Paul Williams will referee the Waitete v Taupo Sports game – something the former halfback is looking forward to.

“I’ve got no doubt it’ll be rollyour-sleeves-up physical rugby. I’m not expecting the helter-skelter kind of rugby I’ve seen in Super Rugby so far this season,” he said.

It’s a rare occasion for Williams to referee club footy these days, but when he gets the opportunity to connect with the community game he takes it.

“Unfortunately, the club games are not ticking over that quickly for me; I didn’t even get to referee one club game last season,” Williams said.

“When you go to the professional level, the scrutiny is much higher, the pressure’s a lot greater, so there’s a different sort of air about it. But when you referee at community level, you can definitely feel the love of the game all around you.

“It’s almost like therapy for me because you operate at a highperformance level for so long and you can experience a bit of burnout. But when you get that opportunity to be involved in club rugby, it’s massively energising and it reminds you about why you love the game,” he said.

His return to Te Kūiti brings back memories early in his professional career, when he officiated the Heartland Championship match

between King Country and Buller in 2014.

“I vividly remember following the teams into the tunnel, they ran onto the field and as I was coming out through the middle of the tunnel, I reached down to grab my whistle out of my pocket and realised, ‘Oh no, I don’t have my whistle’,” Williams said.

“The ground announcer happened to be standing around the tunnel and he heard me say I’d forgotten my whistle, so he communicates to everyone there, ‘Oh, the referee’s forgotten his whistle, he’s just heading back into grab it’.

“You could ask me about test

matches I’ve done that I’ll have no recollection of, but I remember stuff like that,” he said.

Following the game, Williams, the first New Zealander to referee an All Blacks test, will join New Zealand Rugby game development manager - referees Matt Peters and former King Country referee Pat Coogan on a guest panel at the centenary dinner.

“I enjoy having the opportunity to relive some of the stories I’ve been so fortunate to have through rugby. It really has been an amazing vehicle for me,” Williams said.

“I’ve certainly got plenty of scars on the back and I’ve learnt a lot of lessons along the way, so I’m

looking forward to sharing some of those.”

While Waitete host Taupo Sports, Taumarunui Districts will look to keep their unbeaten streak alive against the winless Waitomo in Taumarunui, while Taupō Marist have their second Hetet Shield defence of the year against Taumarunui Eels.

After three rounds, Marist and Districts sit unbeaten and atop of the ladder, Waitete and Eels round out the top four, Taupo Sports and Piopio have wins against Waitomo to show for their season, with Waitomo lingering at the bottom of the table.

AGE OF REASON

When big’s not better

By Richard Steele

After writing the other day, about the price of fuel being driven up by Donald Trump’s attack on Iran, and the subsequent price gouging by local businesses that followed, I thought I’d share a few ideas about how each of us can do better. Mainly because, we all need to do better.

Firstly, a disclaimer, as I’m not a hypocrite. I have a biggish car, a couple of v8 powered boats, and I live 60 plus kilometres, from the nearest shop.

That’s the negative side. I am carbon neutral, by virtue, of having a few hundred thousand trees, and being careful by nature, and that’s the positive side.

An official survey done between ourselves, and good friends who live in close to town, shows we do a lot less mileage than they do, as most of our trips are planned, and most of our trips serve multiple purposes. We don’t nip out because the bread has run out.

We are not slaves to self-sufficiency either, but it gives us great pleasure to eat our home grown food. I can’t think of anything better.

But that thought highlights one of the ways society has gone wrong with fuel use. We want to eat all the good food all the year round, rather than dining on what’s in season. When our tomato supply dries up we import them.

The Muldoon government bought in carless days to save fuel, and that went down like a lead balloon. But it was a good idea then, as it is now - except now we

should have carless days voluntarily.

Then there’s big vehicles, especially utes and 4x4 wagons used by people just because they are big, when they don’t serve any useful purpose. You know - the big black ute, the oversized wheels, the flared wheel arches, the heavy bull bars designed to intimidate, and of course the bloody snorkel, as if that motor will ever go off road, let alone need to breathe underwater. Big utes are for real tradespeople and rural folk, who actually have a use for them.

Last year NIWA bought five $152,000 utes with huge truck motors, to tow boats smaller than I tow with a 2.3 litre Nissan. The government could lead by example.

Car racing’s another one, actually racing anything just about. I’ve never seen the attraction of watching lines of cars go round and round a track, with every competitor waiting for the wheels to fall off one so they can move up a place.

Maybe I’m just too grumpy this morning, as I don’t see any benefit in flying around the moon either. Surely we have done enough damage to our own planet, without wanting to wreck the rest of the universe.

Then of course , there’s the small matter of starting the odd war or two. Talk about wasting fuel. We need to save the planet from ourselves, and I believe that every little action, no matter how small will ultimately make a difference.

WEDNESDAY

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After the storm

By Janine Krippner

As I write this, I am waiting with the rest of you to see how our North Island has fared through Cyclone Vaianu. We watched preparedness and response unfold in real time. Emergency declarations enabled faster action, evacuation calls were made ahead of the storm, and communities mobilised.

That we have days of warning like this is something many may take for granted. Over decades, science has progressed rapidly. The understanding of our atmosphere and how weather systems progress, plus technological advancements to collect better data, allow meteorologists to forecast a range of what might happen.

Scientists can analyse vast, complex, and evolving systems, and build a picture of what may happen thousands of kilometres away.

At home, we translate these forecasts into potential impacts. We work to understand where flooding may occur and where landslides are more likely, what infrastructure may be affected, and who are vulnerable and need assistance. Many moving parts come together to enable an effective response.

As an event approaches, uncertainty decreases and we can act with a clearer idea of what we are facing. Crucially, we do not wait for certainty to jump into action. That would be too late. Instead, we can prepare for the worst with a good old practical attitude and hope for the best.

If all goes well, strong preparation makes an event appear less severe than expected. If we are lucky, a storm may reduce in intensity, or a slight shift take it further

We would like to express our sincere gratitude to all of our clients, past and present & to the local community for your loyal support.

We would also like to thank our dedicated team of workers for their hard work and commitment.

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offshore. If we are lucky and well prepared, people can joke about ‘the great storm of 2026’ with pictures of plastic chairs tipped over rather than images of loss, devastation, and mourning.

Ideally, every event strengthens our ability to respond. We reflect on what worked, where we can improve, and where vulnerabilities and gaps remain. Natural events will always bring surprises, and there will always be more to learn.

What we see publicly is only a fraction of the work that happens behind the scenes to ensure we are as prepared and supported as possible, with the abilities and resources that we have. Communities and individuals – us – are part of this system; we are not powerless.

Preparedness at an individual level matters. Taking responsibility and acting on guidance helps us understand what readiness looks and feels like before the worst-case scenario does occur. Ideally, many of us have just strengthened our emergency supplies and are now better prepared for the future.

We will experience disasters with little or no warning in our future. When we do have advance notice, even if the outcome is less severe than it may have been, it is a valuable and significant opportunity to improve our preparedness before we desperately need it.

My deep gratitude and respect go to everyone who worked to prepare our communities for this event.

Balme leads a kiwi charge

By Dan Tasker

Digger Balme is back on the international stage — this time as New Zealand team manager.

The veteran Ōtorohanga shearer will manage Team NZ, which includes NZ Shears open shearing winner Jack Fagan (Te Kūiti) and NZ Circuit Shears final winner Hemi Braddick (Eketāhuna), on their annual excursion to the United Kingdom and France in late June to early August.

“It's a huge honour and I’ll just be trying to do my utmost to help the team and represent NZ with pride,” Balme said.

Shearing Sports NZ appointed Balme to the role following a nomination from the NZ Shears committee.

Committee president Sir David Fagan commended his appointment.

“He's still competing, but he's judging now too, and it's quite neat that he's been selected. I know he's got a suit and he's really looking forward to the trip. He'll be a very good manager,” Fagan said.

If Balme’s comments to the Te Kūiti and online audience Saturday’s closing night of the NZ Shearing Championships are anything to go by, the boys in the black singlets will be up for it.

“It’s going to be one hell of a trip. We’ve got a bloody awesome team, and if you guys in the UK are watching the livestream, look out because we’re coming for you,” Balme said.

In reality, Balme, 61, knows how hard it will be to get success on the northern tour, having travelled on the same tour with the NZ team as a shearer in 1990.

“It was my first trip to the UK. It was a bit of an eye-opener how passionate they are, especially the Welsh – how much noise they

bring and atmosphere to the shows. It's just unreal. Unless you've been there, you can't quite picture how loud they are and just how daunting it is to shear in front of 4000 screaming Welshmen,” Balme said

“The French are pretty passionate too - they're pretty noisy. I went to the world champs a couple of years ago in Edinburgh on a trip and I was doing a little bit of commentating over there and just the noise from the Welsh and the French was just incredible. All the other countries are pretty quiet, but those two countries just take it to another level.”

The NZ team will compete in seven official shows throughout the annual tour, including tests against Scotland, England, Wales and France across five weeks.

Things kick off in Scotland at the Lochearnhead Shears, followed by the Epynt Shears (Wales), Great Yorkshire Show (England), Cothi Shears (Wales), Royal Welsh Show (Wales), Corwen Lamb Shears (Wales) and the French Shearing Championship in Martel.

Balme sees his role as greasing the wheels to the get the best out of the team.

“I've been there before, so I know what it's like over there, which I think is a hell of an advantage,” Balme said.

“Just helping them out with the logistics with travel and accommodation, just helping find practice sheep for them. Although it's going to be pretty easy because Jack's been there numerous times, so he'll lead us. Hemi’s the new kid on the block, it’s his first trip. I'll be doing my utmost to help him with gear and any little things I can help him me with.

“We're not overconfident, we know how hard it is over there, but I'm pretty sure with this team, we can go pretty well,” he said.

2. Enmity (3,4)

3. Boiled or scrambled? (3)

4. Means of approach (6) 5. Otherwise (6) 6. Capitulate (9) 7. Prize (5) 12. Daily TV drama series (4,5) 16. Permit (7)

17. Carpenter (colloq) (6)

18. Of the mind (6)

20. Damp (5) 24. Decay (3)

KUCANISTERSNNLRPVD TPPDCTDIKSARCFCIOD ILAFAUAMNLTASTERCT XEEEUYPEPGNZISERHT LEMARLBSFFBUMCSGIO BSERVICESNCONTIJNW GREENELRWSOAAHREAE KBREAKSOIRDRKRIEVL TASTINGBSPOONEDKES

34 Awakino Road, Te Kūiti

A beautifully presented English-style four bedroom home featuring a spacious open plan kitchen and dining area, complemented by two separate lounges, providing flexibility for families. A true standout feature is the covered central courtyard, creating a private sanctuary and an inviting space to entertain or unwind. The master suite is a peaceful retreat, complete with its own ensuite and heat pump, while the remainder of the home is serviced by two additional heat pumps for year round comfort. A separate toilet adds everyday convenience, and practicality is further enhanced by a

double garage/workshop with an attic for storage and internal access.

Outside, the fully fenced rear section provides a secure space for children and pets. Additional features include a separate single garage complete with toilet and basin, a greenhouse, raised garden beds, and a sun soaked deck. A home of this calibre offers not only space and practicality, but also a sense of warmth, elegance, and lifestyle that is increasingly hard to find - this is a property that truly stands apart - arrange your private viewing today and experience all this home has to offer.

For Sale $649,000 View Saturday 18 April, 12.30 - 1.30pm rwtekuiti.co.nz/TEK30356 4 3 2 3

Sam Baggott 027 855 8472 sam.baggott@raywhite.com

power, water, wastewater at boundary. Ph

3 Rothery Place, Otorohanga, 685sqm, power, water, fibre, wastewater at

Ph Buzz/Sam $220,000 44 Thomson Ave, Otorohanga, 686sqm, power, water, fibre, wastewater at

9 Sunset Close, Otorohanga, 750sqm in Westridge subdivision. Ph Lorraine

Lot 1, 52 Old Te Kuiti Road, Otorohanga, 1876sqm, power, water at gate, no covenants. Ph John P $285,000

Lot 2, 0 Old Te Kuiti Road, Otorohanga, 2716sqm, power, water at gate, no covenants. Ph John P. $285,000 149A Old Te Kuiti Road, Lot 1, 5517sqm, easy covenants. Phone Lorraine Offers over $250,000

Lot 1, 627 Waitomo Valley Road, Otorohanga, 8105sqm rural lifestyle section. Phone Julie $298,000

Lots 90-108 Harpers Avenue, 486sqm to 962sqm, Westridge II subdivision. Phone John From $220,000ea

576C Mangawhero Road, Otorohanga, 1ha, fenced, sensible covenants. Ph Noldy Offers over $385,000

Te Kūiti sections (sizes are approximate)

35 Robin Azariah Place, Te Kuiti, 1084sqm, handy to schools and hospital. Phone Buzz $250,000 Other sections (sizes are approximate) 214 Okapu Place, Aotea Harbour, 700sqm, borders

Beyond

soy

sauce with Jan Bilton

Sambal oeleck, Vietnamese mint, hoisin sauce, sesame oil — just a few of the tantalising Asian flavours that are available from your supermarket, greengrocer or Asian food store. All add interest to everyday meals without busting the budget.

Vietnamese Mint — also called hot mint or laksa leaf— is not actually a member of the mint family. It grows easily in the garden and, if planted in a sunny, sheltered position, will keep producing its fragrant, long, pointy, red-stained leaves during winter. Add — in moderation — to fresh rice-paper spring rolls, soups (such as laksa), stir-fries, rice dishes, and vegetable and fruit salads.

Hoisin sauce is a reddish-brown, sweet, sticky sauce made from fermented soybeans, plums, garlic and spices. Chinese in origin, it is now often fused into Western recipes. Great with meats and fish, in stir-fries and rice and in dressings.

Makrut leaves (once commonly called kaffir lime leaves) look like two leaves joined and have a distinctive fragrance that enhances stocks, sauces and even desserts. They can be used whole or after discarding the central rib, very finely julienned.

Sambal oelek is a mixture of diced chillies, salt and vinegar. It is excellent in stir-fries or served as an accompaniment.

CHICKEN LAKSA

120g rice stick noodles

1 tablespoon canola oil

60g packet (3-4 tablespoons) Singapore laksa spice paste

1 1/2 cups chicken stock

400g can light coconut milk

300g skinned and boned chicken breast, thinly sliced

1 makrut (kaffir) lime leaf, julienned

1/2 cup each: loosely packed Vietnamese mint leaves, coriander leaves

Topping: 1 carrot, julienned and blanched

1 cup bean sprouts or snow pea sprouts

4 lime wedges

Vietnamese mint and coriander leaves to garnish Cook the noodles according to the instructions on the pack. Heat the oil in a saucepan and stir in the spice paste. Add the chicken stock and coconut milk and bring to the boil. Simmer for 5 minutes. Add the chicken and makrut lime leaf. Poach for 3-4 minutes. Add the Vietnamese mint and coriander.

Place the drained noodles in four deep serving bowls. Add the chicken mixture then the topping. Serves 4.

HOISIN LAMB CUTLETS

5 tablespoons hoisin sauce

2 tablespoons each: canola oil, lemon or orange juice

1-2 teaspoons sambal oeleck or similar

3 large cloves garlic, crushed

8 large lamb cutlets or chops

Whisk the hoisin sauce, oil, juice, sambal oelek and garlic in a bowl. Brush lightly over the cutlets. Stand for 30 minutes.

Preheat a grill or barbecue. Cook the lamb for about 4

minutes on each side for medium-rare, brushing with the remaining marinade after 6 minutes. Serves 4.

SESAME OYSTER BEEF

Although sesame oil is usually added to dishes at the end for flavour, here it makes a great rub for barbecue meat. Rump steak could also be grilled this way, but with a little less cooking.

Oyster sauce is a thick brown sauce made by simmering oysters in soy sauce and brine.

2 tablespoons sesame oil

2 x 3cm-thick sirloin steaks freshly ground black pepper to taste

2 tablespoons oyster sauce

Rub the sesame oil into the beef. Season with the black pepper.

Cook on the barbecue or under a very hot grill for about 3 minutes on each side for medium-rare. Cover and stand for 3-4 minutes.

Transfer to a chopping board and cut into 3cm slices crosswise. Arrange the meat on a platter and drizzle with the oyster sauce. Serves 4.

A/c: G Speedy & J Gallagher Family Trust

A/c: G Speedy & J Gallagher Family Trust

CAPITAL STOCK ANGUS COWS

CAPITAL STOCK ANGUS COWS 68 x VIC MA Angus Cows Bred by Tarangower and Blackridge sires, these Angus Cows will come forward due to a successful farm sale. They have been scanned in calf to Tarangower and Blackridge sires.

68 x VIC MA Angus Cows Bred by Tarangower and Blackridge sires, these Angus Cows will come forward due to a successful farm sale. They have been scanned in calf to Tarangower and Blackridge sires.

Angus

-

to

Angus Bull - 5/12/25 to 1/2/26 This Herd of strong Angus Cows will be drafted into their respective age groups on sale day.

Further enquiries to: NZFL Brett Wallbank 0274 881 299

Letters to the Editor

• Letters should not exceed 200 words

• They should be opinion based on facts or current events

• All letters to be emailed to editor@goodlocal.nz

• No noms-de-plume

• Letters will be published with names

• Please include full name, address and contact details for our records only

• Letters may be edited, abridged, or rejected at the editor’s discretion

• The editor’s decision on publication is final.

Join our team Property Officer

We are on the hunt for a proactive, customer focused Property Officer to join our team. This role is responsible for the day to day delivery and oversight of our diverse property portfolio, ensuring everything is well maintained and managed.

Key responsibilities include:

• Administer and support property maintenance contracts

• Coordinate repairs and maintenance, including liaising with contractors

• Support our elderly persons housing accommodation

• Undertake inspections of infrastructure and follow up on any identified issues

• Provide site cover at our Transfer Stations

To be successful, you will have previous experience working in a similar role, excellent communication skills, ability to form effective working relationships and a strong health and safety focus. Previous contract management experience would be advantageous.

Our people are fundamental to our success. We are a committed team and our values are the foundation of our organisational culture: teamwork, positivity, bold and brave, compassion, integrity and community minded.

To apply for this position please visit our recruitment website www.joinourteam.co.nz

Applications close 23 April 2026.

SITUATIONS VACANT

TIROA E & TE HAPE B TRUSTS

TIROA E TRUST – Tiroa Station

Tiroa Station is a 3,200-ha effective property situated near Benneydale, 35 minutes from Te Kuiti and part of the Tiroa Te Hape group of farms covering 7,500ha effective. The station winters 32,000 stock units made up of a high-performing breeding ewe flock and breeding cow herd.

SHEPHERD

The successful applicant will bring a team of 4–5 well-trained working dogs, along with a broad range of practical farming skills and proven experience finishing both lambs and cattle. You will demonstrate strong stockmanship, attention to detail, and clear written and verbal communication. The ability to take ownership of your role, maintain a positive “can-do” attitude, and follow farm Health & Safety requirements is essential, as is the ability to work both independently and as part of a team

We offer competitive remuneration, a supportive work environment, and quality housing.

Applicants must hold New Zealand residency or a valid NZ work visa and will be required to pass a pre-employment drug test.

For further information please contact: Wayne Fraser (07) 8784815, or email your CV to sharon@tiroatehape.maori.nz

Applications close: Monday 20th April 2026

TIROA E & TE HAPE B TRUSTS

TIROA E TRUST – Tiroa Station

Tiroa Station is a 3,200ha effective property situated near Benneydale, 35 minutes from Te Kuiti and part of the Tiroa Te Hape group of farms covering 7,300ha. The station winters 32,000 stock units made up of a high performing breeding ewe flock and breeding cow herd.

GENERAL HAND

This role involves approximately 60% fencing and 40% general farm duties, including stock and yard work, tractor operation (such as feeding out), and general farm maintenance.

The ideal candidate will be physically fit, capable, and able to work both independently and as part of a team. Strong communication skills are essential, along with a positive attitude, good energy, and a willingness to get stuck in. A solid understanding of health and safety requirements relevant to the role is also important.

Trainee Line Mechanic

Applications are now open for our 2026 Trainee Line Mechanic Programme.

•Looking for a new career with a great local employer?

• Keen to be paid while you gain a qualification?

• Eager to work for a people first, values driven team?

• Enjoy physical work and new challenges?

Then a career as a Distribution Line Mechanic with The Lines Company could be the job for you!

Join our close-knit team of skilled local professionals who will guide you through your learning journey. Learn from experts who take pride in their work every day and who are truly committed to our customers and our communities.

Take the first step in securing a long term career and apply today. Scan the code or check our website for more details: www.thelinescompany.co.nz/ about-us/work-for-us/

We offer competitive remuneration, a supportive and enjoyable work environment, and a tidy family home.

Applicants must have New Zealand residency or hold a valid NZ work visa. A clear pre-employment drug test will also be required.

For further information please contact Wayne Fraser (07) 878 4815, or email your CV to sharon@tiroatehape.maori.nz

Applications close: Monday 20th April 2026

Office Administrator | Pukenui School

Permanent, Term-Time Only (8:30 am – 3:30 pm)

Are you a multitasking “wizard” with a heart for community?

Pukenui School is looking for a vibrant

Office Administrator to be the welcoming face of our school.

Essentials:

• Front Desk: Welcoming whānau and supporting our 130–150 pupils.

• Systems: Managing HERO (Student Management), ENROL, and EdPay.

• Finance: Handling accounts and payroll with precision.

• Daily Life: Offering a smile (and the occasional plaster) to our tamariki.

Start Date: 4th May, 2026.

• Application Packs - Email: principal@pukenui.school.nz

• Closing Date: Monday, 27th April

Te Kuiti Saleyard

Yard Washdown Person

Te Kuiti Saleyard seeking a fit person to hose down yards after sales. 15-20hrs/wk. Must be reliable, experience dairy farming/ yard wash downs is an advantage. Please call Kelvin 021 969851

GRAZING WANTED

GRAZING wanted for up to x100 R2yr Jersey Bulls and x100 R1yr Jersey Bulls till October. Minimum lots of 50. Please call Bryce Young 027 496 7411

WANTED TO BUY

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

TO LET

HOUSE TO RENT –3-bedroom, 1 bathroom. Otorohanga township. No pets. $550 per week. Available now. Ph 0210 2928140 SITUATIONS VACANT

A/c G Speedy and J Gallagher Family Trust

446 Tikitiki Road, RD 1, Te Kuiti

Saturday April 18 2026, Start 11am th

MACHINERY: Honda 520 2025 (650kms) SxS, Rata rototiller, Harrows, Giltrap bale feeder, Tractor forks, Alloy Tandem axle trailer, Alloy dog box/tool box for flatdeck ute, Compressor, Soft hands, Docking yards, Fuel storage combo fuel tank. FARM: Trutest M600 scales & weigh bar, Gallagher NAIT scanner, galv weigh platform, Numerous E/fence reels & standards, Round paddock bale feeders, Grader blade, Husqvana ride on lawnmower FENCING: Post hole borer, 9 coils of wire, wire strainers, Trail blazer staple compressor, staple gun MEMORABILIA: Old cream cans, Wagon wheels, Wool press bar leaners, Old tools, coppers, Stencil OUTSIDE ENTRIES: Husqvana 340 chainsaw, 13 in fencing saw, Corohawk large size kennel and run, Mole plough, 2.5 tonne hydraulic tip trailer, 2 x solo knap sack sprayers, snig chain.

Plus numerous other items to many to list. (Venue will be signposted from Eight Mile Junction South of Te Kuiti)

Terms: Current NZFLL trading account or strictly cash otherwise.

Further Enquiries: Brett Wallbank 0274 881 299

ANZAC Day - Public Holiday

Monday

27 April 2026

Customer Services and Visitor Hub - Closed.

Our call centre operates 24/7. Please call 0800 932 4357 or email: info@waitomo.govt.nz

Waitomo District Library - Closed

Admin Office - Closed.

Waste Transfer Stations - All waste transfer stations will be closed for the public holiday.

Refuse Kerbside Collection - Kerbside collection will operate as normal.

Land Lease Opportunity - TE KUMI

Approx. 13.8ha, Hangatiki East Road.

Cropping or mixed use. Flat to rolling land, road access. Term negotiable. Immediate availability.

Seeking expressions of interest. Please include proposed lease rate. Contact: 0211827619 ngauriopunarukutrust@gmail.com

BAILEY INGHAM LTD

POSITION

We are now looking for people to join our Otorohanga and Te Awamutu offices. Duties will include:

• Preparation of financial accounts for farmers and businesses

• Preparation of GST and Income Tax Returns

• General business and taxation work

The successful applicant must have a keen interest in accounting, computer skills and clerical work, with attention to detail. Excellent people skills, integrity and professionalism are required.

While some past experience and farming knowledge would be preferred, training will be given to the successful applicant. Our firm is an Approved Training Organisation. We offer professional development opportunities through distance learning

While this is a full time position, we would consider applicants looking for reduced hours. The ability to meet deadlines is important.

We offer a friendly environment, with great family orientated offices. Please email with your C.V. to: Bailey Ingham Limited Chartered Accountants

Email: info@baileyingham.co.nz

Enquiries to: Bridget Boshier or David Bailey – Otorohanga

St Bride's Anglican Church Haerehuka St Ōtorohanga

Sunday morning service

10am

Ph 07 873 7006

St David's Presbyterian Church Ranfurly St, Ōtorohanga

Services – Sunday 10am

Session clerk

Ph Dawn 07 873 8735

Room bookings

Ph Claire 027 276 6624

Harvest Church Ōtorohanga

Sunday Service @ 10.30am 5 Tuhoro Street, Ōtorohanga

Ph 07 873 8890 Mob 027 493 0117

Email harvest.pc@xtra.co.nz ALL WELCOME. Pastors Peter & Carole Coventry (An Assemblies of

PIOPIO ARIA MŌKAU CO-OPERATING PARISH

All Saints Piopio, 22 Moa St Sunday 10am

St Peter’s by the Sea 25 Aria Tce, Mōkau 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th Sunday 2pm

Piopio contact: 07 877 8097

Mokau contact: 06 752 9123

10 Sheridan St, Te Kūiti An Assemblies of God church

10:30am Sunday

10:30am Sunday 10 Sheridan St, Te Kuiti Pastor Terry & Rowena Bradley 07 878 8694 021 703 008 An

O'CONNOR, Graeme Francis (Jock) – Passed away peacefully on 24 March 2026, aged 84 years. Dearly loved husband of the late Colleen. Much loved father to Pania and Brendan and daughter-in-law Andrea. Beloved Grandad of Gabriel, Andrei and Anabelle; Sienna, Mackayla and Tyson. Requiem Mass will be celebrated at St Bride's Church, 54 Haerehuka Street, Otorohanga on Friday 17 April at at 1pm.

McNEIL, Leslie James Wilson (Les) – Beloved husband of Anne, much loved father and father -inlaw, and treasured Poppa. Loved for 50 years together and deeply missed. Anne and family invite friends to attend the unveiling of Les's headstone at Otorohanga Cemetery on Saturday ,25th April at 2:00pm. Refreshments to follow at 32 Turongo Steet. Forever in our hearts.

COLLINS, Margaret Grace – Passed away peacefully on Sunday, April 12, 2026 in her 95th year. Dearly loved wife of the late Phil. Cherished mother of Marilyn, Chris and Philip. Nan to Brendan, Adelle, Kelly, Trina, Chloe and Ryan. Great nan to seven great grandchildren. A private cremation has taken place. In accordance with family wishes a private family service will be held at a later date. Many thanks to the staff of Beattie Home Otorohanga. All comunications to Collins family c/- PO Box 241, Te Kuiti 3941. VJ Williams & Sons, Funeral Directors Association of NZ

HARPUR, Shirley Anne –

On Saturday April 11, 2026 at home with her family by her side. Devoted wife of the late Peter. Dearly loved mother of Raewyn, Kevin, Nigel and their families. Cherished by all her family and friends. In accordance with Shirley’s wishes a private cremation has taken place. All communications to Harpur Family c/- PO Box 241, Te Kuiti 3941 VJ Williams & Sons, Funeral Directors Association of NZ

10 Sheridan St, Te Kuiti Pastor Terry & Rowena Bradley 07 878 8694 021 703 008

We welcome you to our 10.30am Sunday service. www.journeychurch.org.nz

King Country Christians meet every Sunday in the Piopio

An Assemblies of God Church

Senior Citizens Hall, Weka Street, Piopio, at 10.30am

Phone Judy 021135946

Everyone is welcome! Phone 0211359346

Guiding you with care

In life’s hardest moments, you don’t have to be alone. Our caring, experienced, and local team offers support, guidance, and a farewell that truly honours your loved one.

Available 24/7 – call us when you need us.

You can pick up a free King Country News from our Te Kūiti office or at any of the following locations:

amends (10)

1 Take place (5) 4 Matching siblings (9,5)

66 Dried seasoned sausage (6)

67 Calm (6)

Game fish (5) 14 Body organ (5)

69 Decorated (9)

72 Quick drawing (6)

73 Adaptable (9)

75 Got away (7)

77 Annoy (3)

80 Become one (5)

81 Speak bluntly and plainly (4,1,5,1,5)

82 Pixies (5)

83 Thawed (6)

84 Egg dish (8)

85 Wooden-soled shoes (5)

DOWN

2 Tired out (9)

3 Of the moon (5)

5 Not any (4)

6 Kettle-drums (7)

7 New Year song (4,4,4)

8 Heath shrub (5)

9 Group of admirers (3,4)

10 Tosses (4)

11 Alternative (6)

12 Thigh-bone (5)

13 Church tower and spire (7)

14 Art of Japanese flower arrangement (7)

16 Take revenge with a like punishment (3,3,2,3)

22 Submissive (6)

(4)

61 Prey (6)

62 Large water body (3)

63 Compensation,

23 Narrow connecting land (7)

24 Sore (7)

25 Forever (6)

27 Not precise (7)

28 Merchant (6)

30 Henpecks (4)

32 Coral reef (5)

34 Yellowish pigment (5)

36 Wide smile (4)

38 Finish (3)

42 Accumulate over time (5)

43 Poorly balanced or matched (7)

44 Neaten (4)

45 Remorseful (6)

46 Loot (5)

48 Submarine (5,3,3)

49 Titillated (7)

50 Label (3)

51 Surprise (7)

52 Cared for while ill (6)

53 Deadpan expression (8,4)

54 Mix with a spoon (4)

57 Fix (6)

64 Sailor of long experience (3,3,3)

65 Time’s up (anag) (7)

66 Wither (7)

68 Bullied into doing (7)

70 Recovery setback (7)

71 Writer (6)

72 Shirk a duty (5)

74 Volley of shots (5)

76 Horrify (5)

78 Remaining (4)

79 Check and correct (4)

68 Coerced, 70 Relapse, 71 Scribe, 72 Skive, 74 Salvo, 76 Appal, 78 Left, 79 Edit.

DOWN: 2 Exhausted, 3 Lunar, 5 None, 6 Timpani, 7 Auld Lang Syne, 8 Erica, 9 Fan club, 10 Lobs, 11 Option, 12 Femur, 13 Steeple, 14 Ikebana, 16 Eye for an eye, 22 Docile, 23 Isthmus, 24 Painful, 25 Always, 27 Inexact, 28 Trader, 30 Nags, 32 Atoll, 34 Ochre, 36 Grin, 38 End, 42 Amass, 43 Unequal, 44 Tidy, 45 Rueful, 46 Booty, 48 Under the sea, 49 Excited, 50 Tag, 51 Startle, 52 Nursed, 53 Straight face, 54 Stir, 57 Repair, 64 Old sea dog, 65 Impetus, 66 Shrivel,

INVOICING AND PAYMENTS

77 Irk, 80 Unite, 81 Call a spade a spade, 82 Elves, 83 Melted, 84 Omelette, 85 Clogs.

1 Jelly, 4 Initiate, 9 Falcon, 14 Inert, 15 Chance in a million, 17 Batik, 18 Use, 19 Quarrel, 20 Malleable, 21 Bomber, 24 Promotion, 25 Ambush, 26 Invite, 29 Admiration, 31 Sew, 32 Adhere, 33 Memo, 37 Serf, 39 Emergency, 40 Under oath, 41 Sales, 42 Adultery, 47 Brunette, 51 Shown, 55 Amendment, 56 Untutored, 58 Cage, 59 Tar, 60 Sour, 61 Quarry, 62 Sea, 63 Reparation, 66 Salami, 67 Placid, 69 Garnished, 72 Sketch, 73 Versatile, 75 Escaped,

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Rates are based on advertising space only and are over a 12-month period starting from the date the first ad publishes. Rate bracket e.g. 6 insertions, 12 insertions etc. chosen allows ad sizes to vary within the rate bracket. If the number of insertions chosen is not met then a bulk charge will be applied at the end/cancellation of your schedule based on correct rate reflective of the number of ads published e.g. if you have chosen the 12 insertion rate and only publish 6 insertions, the bulk charge will be the di erence in price between the 6 insertion rate and 12 insertion rate multiplied by the number of ads published. You pay the rate reflective of the number of ads you published.

Copy deadline for ad-make up is noon Friday prior to publication day. Booking and Copy deadlines for Waikato Business News and Bay of Plenty Business News is on request. Advertiser is responsible to advise us of any copy changes before proofing deadline –anything not signed o by this time, ad prints as per the last proof sent. Advertising supplied in completed form (finished artwork or camera ready), deadline is Tuesday 11am prior to publication day. Public holiday weeks, all deadlines move forward one working day. Cancellation deadline is one week prior to publication. If cancellations are received after the cancellation deadline, then full charge applies. All other publications and products see separate booking and deadline sheet. Advertising setting incurs a production fee of $50 + GST for up to two proofs, further changes will incur additional production fees. Advertising copy set by Good Local Media Ltd is the property of Good Local Media Ltd and for use in Good Local Media Ltd publications only. If used elsewhere charges will apply, pricing available on request. If supplied ready to print, copy is owned by the advertiser. Publication day is Thursday for urban deliveries and Friday morning for rural deliveries. Acceptance of advertising and free productions services is at the discretion of the publisher. Acceptance of advertising for publication and free productions services is at the discretion of the publisher.

high resolution PDFs as the ad file format exported using the compatibility setting: Acrobat 4 (PDF 1.3). Please do not use/include overprint. Ideally, 10pt is the standard point size; however, in some cases with bold fonts 9pt can be used, depending on background. Black text should be 100% black[k]. All artwork submitted needs a border. Specifications for photos and logos – CMYK, high resolution jpeg (minimum 200dpi) pdf attachments. If finished artwork ready to print (Camera Ready) provided does not meet our technical requirements, your advert will be technically fixed, a technical report will be provided, and a $50 + GST production fee will be incurred. No proof will be sent as no design changes will be made.

File formats: We will not accept PDFs created from Word, Excel, Publisher, PowerPoint, Photoshop, and Canva. However, we can copy your design and proof for your approval. Any artwork received in these formats must adhere to the copy setting deadline as they are not finished artwork or technically compatible to newspaper printing specifications.

LIMITATION OF LIABILITY

Good Local Media Limited (including its employees, o cers, or