King Country News | April 23, 2026

King Country

Giving blood, giving life

By Dan Tasker

Te Kūiti woman Maree Tregoweth knows all too well the life-saving benefits of giving blood.

The year was 1999 and Tregoweth, her husband Shane and their first child were living in the United Kingdom and about to welcome their second into the world.

During her second pregnancy, Tregoweth found out she had Rhesus disease, a serious condition where antibodies in a pregnant woman’s Rh-negative blood destroy a foetus’ Rh-positive red blood cells, causing anaemia and jaundice in the foetus.

Rhesus disease is usually preventable following a woman’s first pregnancy, when the mother receives an anti-D injection, but this was not the case for Tregoweth.

“When you have your first baby, they can be quite jaundiced, but they give you this antidote after your first baby. For some reason with me, blood

had passed over the placenta, so the antidote didn’t work,” Tregoweth said.

“So, with baby number two, he was very jaundiced and had to have this blood transfusion, where they take 10ml out and they put 10ml in to try and get the bilirubin count down, because the liver was not mature enough to flush it out. Without it, he was at risk of death, brain damage or long-term health issues.”

Bilirubin is a yellowish-orange pigment formed naturally in the body and in this case, it indicated a high level of red cell destruction in the blood.

Tregoweth was on-site to give blood on Tuesday when the New Zealand Blood Service came for their threemonthly visit to the Les Munro Centre in Te Kūiti, where 41 other residents also donated their blood.

Seeing the impact giving blood can have on someone’s life made Tregoweth want to give blood, but she initially wasn’t able to because she lived in the UK when mad cow disease

was present.

It has only been since the NZ Blood Service recommended lifting the mad cow disease criteria in February 2024 that people in Tregoweth’s position have been able to give blood.

After hearing of the low blood donor numbers locally at a recent visit to give blood, Tregoweth wanted to tell her story to motivate others to give blood.

“When I went last time, I was sitting in the last group and I was just yacking away to the fella and I said, ‘How many people, have you had through?’, and he said, ‘Oh, maybe 40?’. I said, ‘40 - is that all?’,” Tregoweth said.

“Te Kūiti’s numbers are low, Ōtorohanga’s numbers are low, and I see Hamilton’s numbers are low, so goodness knows what’s happeningpeople aren’t giving blood.”

“I would say every person would have had some instances where either a friend or a family member has had to have receive blood. So it’s very important, isn’t it?,” she said.

Going bananas about pyjamas

They managed almost 1500 pairs in 2025 – now Maru Energy Trust wants to collect

The trust has launched 2026 Kahumoe Kaupapa – PJ Project, where the community is invited to donate pyjamas and help contribute to a warm, comfortable night’s sleep for whānau across The Lines Company (TLC) network region.

The project delivered 1424 pairs of brand-new winter pyjamas through trusted community organisations across the King Country, Central Plateau and Ruapehu in 2025.

The total has grown year on year from 497

pairs in 2022 to more than 900 in 2023 and just over 1000 in 2024.

Maru is a not-for-profit trust established in 2018 by The Lines Company. It works alongside communities to put in place practical initiatives to help homes become warmer, drier, healthier and ultimately use less energy. Supporters include The Lines Company, Waitomo Energy Services Customer Trust, King Country Trust, Ōtorohanga Charitable Trust, Ruapehu District Council and Ōtorohanga District Council.

“The need for practical support continues

to rise, with growing numbers of people reaching out for help through community service organisations,” Maru Team Leader Renee Parkes said.

“Many households struggle; even the basics like new winter sleepwear can be out of reach.”

Each year organisations have helped ensure pyjamas reach those who need them most.

Lucretia Goodwin of Taumarunui

Community Kokiri Trust says having a warm pair of pyjamas during the colder months helps to keep whānau warm at

night, supports better sleep and contributes to overall hauora.

“With the current state of our societyfuel increases and increased living costs, unemployment, high rents, poor state of housing, homelessness and the need for emergency housing, it is a struggle for whānau to even put kai on the table,” said Goodwin.

Parkes says when a child goes to bed warm, it can change the whole night—and often the next day too.

Winter PJs range from $12 to $40 depending on size.

Bureaucracy battles

In February 2025, headlines declared that bureaucracy was strangling New Zealand’s growth.

Our Prime Minister called for a public sector that would say “yes” more often.

By Rodney Dow, Mayor, Ōtorohanga District

and deeply embedded, particularly at the local level.

From my experience in local government, more than a year later, that ambition remains largely unfulfilled. Bureaucracy is alive, well,

existed and that I could stay. No explanation, no apology, just quiet retreat, as though wasting time and undermining trust was of no consequence.

The following week, another committee attempted to organise a meeting through endless emails that achieved nothing.

I never set out to become a politician. I’m a truck driver by trade and a director of a family business, who somehow ended up being elected mayor. If that proves anything. It’s that ordinary people can step up when they care about their community. My partner jokes that local politics is my version of a midlife crisis.

Roy

•

Ton up

Cambridge’s Luke Jacobson celebrated his 100th outing in a Chiefs jersey in the 22-17 win at Rugby Park over the Hurricanes last Saturday.

In

the pink

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Waikato residents are being invited to gather with friends, family and colleagues in May to host or attend a Pink Ribbon Breakfast to raise funds for Breast Cancer Foundation. Pink Ribbon Breakfast, the Foundation’s largest annual fundraiser, encourages people to connect over a shared meal.

Road closed

State Highway 3 between Mōkau and Piopio remain closed on Monday following significant slips. Crews removed almost 50 truckloads of material from the closure following heavy rain. The New Zealand Transport Agency expected the road to remain closed “for a number of days”. State Highway 43, the Forgotten World Highway between Whangamōmona and Taumarunui was also closed.

Auditing is an example of the bureaucracy machine that has lost touch with its purpose. Auditing councils’ plans is a check on systems and process; this costs around $240,000.

One of the findings from our most recent audit report was a process that a perceived excessive amount may have been spent on accommodation. As a ratepayer spending $240,000 to inform me someone has stayed in a flash hotel seems out of touch with the real world.

Recently, I was told I would be removed from a regional council committee I had served on for over five years due to an alleged financial conflict of interest. Despite repeated requests, no one could clearly explain what the conflict was. Instead, I received links to websites and forwarded emails from Wellinton, plenty of process, but no substance.

I reviewed the declared interests of other committee members and found that, if applied consistently, the same logic would have removed many more people.

Then, on the morning of a meeting, I was informed that the “conflict” no longer

After narrowing it down to two possible times, the decision was made to cancel the meeting entirely because not everyone could attend. Instead, a report would be circulated. Efficient on paper, perhaps, but it avoids discussion, accountability, and decision making.

When process overtakes accountability, public frustration grows. Election results last year across the country show voters are tired and demanding change.

Earlier this year, our district endured a one in 250-year weather event. Recovery is ongoing but it revealed what truly works. Council staff went above and beyond their normal duties.

That dedication deserves systems that support action, not smother it.

Local government is full of capable people. What it does not need is layers of unnecessary bureaucracy. Clearer processes, decisive leadership, and a relentless focus on outcomes over paperwork are long overdue.

The call to action is simple: outcomes should be the focus, we must strip back red tape, and central government must trust communities to act. Saying “yes” is no longer a slogan, it’s a responsibility.

Another week has passed for Te Kūiti police, with a steady workload and a number of incidents keeping staff busy across the King Country.

With school holidays coming to an end, we remind motorists to take extra care on our roads and to slow down around school zones as children return to their daily routines.

Police attended a minor vehicle crash in Waitomo, where a driver lost control and the vehicle came to rest in a roadside ditch. It is believed the crash was caused by mud or debris left on the road by a tractor. Fortunately, no serious injuries were reported.

Staff were called to a high impact, head on collision in Te Kawa. It was extremely fortunate that those involved did not suffer any life threatening or serious injuries. Enquiries indicate an unlicensed driver was believed to be at fault.

Police are investigating a burglary at the Te Kuiti Dog Pound, where an offender caused damage to the site before removing a dog from a kennel. Police assisted Animal Control in executing a search warrant at an address in Hamilton, where the dog was successfully recovered. A suspect has been identified, and police are looking to lay charges in the coming days.

In Te Kuiti, police arrested a 40 year old male for breaching his conditions.

Police also followed up with a 41 year old male, in Ōtorohanga, who has been summoned to appear in Court. The matter relates to an incident several weeks ago where the male was found unlawfully inside an enclosed yard.

In sadder news, Police attended a sudden death at a rural address north of Ōtorohanga. The matter has been referred to the coroner, and initial indications suggest

Covid 19 and asthma may have been contributing factors. Our thoughts are with the family and friends of the woman who passed away.

Police and fire service were called to a reported vehicle crash near the Awakino Gorge, where initial information suggested people were trapped. A rescue helicopter was deployed and assisted emergency services in attempting to locate the vehicle. Following further enquiries, it was established that no crash had occurred. It’s believed the out of area caller became confused and panicked after seeing road closure signs and mistakenly reported an incident.

As always, we encourage the community to continue reporting antisocial driving, suspicious behaviour, and crime. Please also look out for one another as weather conditions continue to change.

Anzac dates

There will be plenty of opportunities to attend Anzac services across Waitomo and Ōtorohanga districts on Saturday. Dawn services at Te Kūiti Pā and Ōtorohanga (opposite the council offices) will start from 6am, followed by civic memorial services and parades. Te Kūiti’s memorial service at the Les Munro Centre will begin at 7.30am followed by wreath laying at the cenotaph, while Ōtorohanga’s service will be held at the village green from 10am. Other memorial services will be held across both districts throughout the morning, including Piopio (11am at the village green), Awakino (11am at the memorial hall) and Kāwhia at the All Saints Anglican Church from 1pm.

Refuge call

Waitomo-Waipā Women’s Refuge is inviting women to tell their refuge stories at a function on May 7 in Te Kūiti. The group is welcoming those who have engaged with refuge to a session named Herstory to share their experiences.

Sudden death

Police say a sudden death at a rural address north of Ōtorohanga has been referred to the coroner, and initial indications suggest Covid 19 and asthma may have been contributing factors.

Century celebration

The Lines Company is celebrating 100 years of electricity in the King Country with a reunion in Te Kuiti on April 30. Past and present staff, community members and partners will celebrate at a reunion hosted at the Les Munro Centre.

Volunteers sought Nominations have opened for the Volunteering Waikato awards. The awards celebrate the contributions of volunteers throughout the greater Waikato from preserving history to providing services and leadership.

Whistle blowers take a stand

By Dan Tasker

King Country Rugby referees raised the bat of 100 years of service to local rugby in style in Te Kūiti last weekend.

A group of around 30 past and present local rugby referees gathered in Te Kūiti to celebrate the milestone through kai, connection and of course watching a game of footy –but this time, from the stands.

The main event was a dinner hosted at the Panorama Motel, the function room kitted with memorabilia, photos and local referee uniforms from across the generations.

The evening included a guest panel of international and Taranaki referee Paul Williams, New Zealand Rugby game development manager - referees Matt Peters and former King Country referee Pat Coogan.

Williams shared stories and gave insights into what it’s like to be a high-performance referee and the pressures that come with the job.

“The game of rugby has obviously given me loads, but then going into refereeing, it’s probably taught me triple, particularly how to manage myself and pressure situations and to be able to manage 30 burly blokes on the field,” Williams said.

Peters gave guests an appreciation of the referee landscape from a NZ Rugby perspective, while Coogan, who began refereeing in King Country in the 1970s, told stories from the old days.

The former Ōwhango whistle-

blower said he remembered the days when Taumarunui boasted 22 referees and recalled refereeing 18 games of sevens in one day.

“These guys told me if I can get started, they would go and find some others to help ref these games. They came back after I had done 17 games

and I had one to go and I said, ‘I’ve done 17, like hell am I letting you ref the 18th’,” Coogan said.

Earlier in the day, the referees had the luxury of sitting in the stands to watch Williams officiate the club rugby match between Waitete and Taupō Sports at Te Kūiti’s Rugby Park.

The group gathered for a drink and some old referee stories at Waitete Rugby Football Club on Friday night, while Saturday’s festivities included some golf at the Piopio-Aria Golf Club followed by lunch at Waitete RFC.

Author goes back to school

Kura across the rohe of Te Nehenehenui will receive copies of two nationally recognised education resources in by author, educator and lawyer Roimata Smail.

Her books Understanding Te Tiriti and Understanding Hauora will be gifted to 32 schools ranging from kōhanga reo to secondary school level.

Smail, who affiliates to Ngāti Maniapoto and Tainui, says the kaupapa represents a deeply

personal full-circle moment.

“My whānau are from Te Korapatu Pā, just behind the railway tracks in Te Kūiti. We’ve always gone back there, and in recent years even more. To bring these books back to the kura of our rohe feels like a full circle moment.”

The initiative was to be launched after this edition went to press, on Wednesday at Matawhaiora in Te Kūiti.

Te Nehenehenui has financially supported the

coordinated distribution of the books, ensuring every school has access to the resources.

In 2025, Smail was flying home from working in the United Nations in Geneva when she learned she had been named a recipient of a Kawenata Award, recognising her contributions and achievements within Te Nehenehenui iwi.

The books are designed as accessible, practical handbooks that can be

read in a single sitting, offering foundational knowledge about the Treaty of Waitangi, colonisation, and contemporary issues in health and wellbeing.

Smail says the resource is also intended to support teachers, particularly those who may not have had the opportunity to learn this material themselves.

Both Smail’s grandmother Tewamoana Te Kanawa and her mother, Jeanette Smail, were teachers.

ON SHAKY GROUND

Give them a break…

By Richard Steele

Here we go. We are doing it again. Journalists are bagging the Prime Minister in the same way as they bagged Jacinda Ardern.

Both of them have been found wanting by political commentators who I don’t think have any ideas themselves, other than to keep rubbishing whoever is in power.

I have no allegiance to National or Labour, and I would not doubt for a second that they have made some mistakes. But who in this crazy world hasn’t?

Labour under Ardern faced up to the worldwide epidemic of Covid 19 as well as anybody, as well as any leader in the world. I’m sure they borrowed too much money to get through the pandemic, and I’m also sure that they dished that money out sometimes unwisely to people who didn’t need it.

But they also got us through the pandemic, with minimal loss of life. What’s important here - saving lives or saving a few bucks through an experience we had never had before?

And then there’s now. Again, unprecedented times at least outside two world wars, and I think our leaders are doing okay - at least as well as any other leaders in a world of turmoil.

We can’t overnight turn our moribund oil industry around, when two thirds of the population won’t let us drill for it. Closing the Marsden Point oil refinery was a decision made by its petrol company owners, not by the government.

We are a beautiful, but small, nation at the bottom of the world, in the best place in the world to be.

When you compare our performance, to

just about any country you wish to compare us with, we are not doing too badly.

Yet time and time again our journalists are calling for Luxon to be replaced.

With whom? Labour from my readings have no new policy, other than a capital gains tax, and taxing the rich more regardless.

The Greens want to save the planet but still fly all around it all the time to meetings about saving it.

The Māori party want us to nip back 200 years to fix all outstanding grievances, almost all justified, until you realise misdeeds of the past, actually aren’t our fault.

Winston Peters and Nicola Willas telling the Americans how their wars are wrecking our economy is exactly the right thing to do. Trying to negotiate with other like-minded democracies about a more intelligent way forward, is exactly what I would want our leaders to be doing.

But our leaders have to spend all their time answering inane questions, about who should succeed the PM.

Get a grip folks, have some faith, and the only poll that counts is the one on election day.

I’ve got no great faith in Mr Luxon or in Ms Ardern, National or Labour, but we elected them to do a job that became more difficult as the job progressed. From where I sit, they did or are doing as well as any elected officials in the world.

My preparedness

By Janine Krippner

I’ve been living in Wellington for about five months now and I said I’d give updates on how I am preparing myself for potential earthquakes and other hazards. Am I following my own advice?

I carefully considered where I would rent, thinking about my local hazards. I chose a newer apartment building on flat land, but I am in the orange tsunami zone. Wellington Region Emergency Management define this as “the area we may evacuate for a large earthquake in the Pacific, such as near South America, causing a tsunami wave of up to five metres at the Wellington coastline.” I know my nearest high point.

As I have been settling in, I’ve been mindful of where I put things. I don’t want heavy objects above me where it could hurt if knocked over, like no heavy frames or sword collections above the bed. I don’t have a sword collection, but I have seen photos of this set up. I do not recommend it.

I’ve collected food I can store that I would actually like when it’s on special. This includes foods that won’t need cooking in case of loss of power, such as canned beans and fish, nuts, and dried fruit. Canned food is a cheap option, I know many people are financially struggling. I do have a camping gas stove with extra gas cannisters. Emotional support treats are also important. Yes, I just officially recommended buying chocolate.

I have plenty of cat food with kitty needs in mind.

I bought a battery-operated radio, spare batteries, and a solar power pack for device charging. I know to not store items you infrequently use with the batteries inside

them - thanks Dad!

Medications are especially important for me, and I have extra paracetamol and ibuprofen in case anyone around me needs it.

I have a go bag with water, first aid kit, flashlight (I also have a couple of these around the house), a lighter, utility tool, blanket, gloves, facemasks, and other things that I usually keep in my car.

Having experienced sleeping in the wilderness for volcanology fieldwork, I know that body or face wipes and hand sanitizer are very handy for bathing without water.

I have plenty of toilet paper and kitty litter, keeping the basics stocked up. I grab an extra pack when they are on special.

Having some cash for any power cuts out means we can still purchase items.

I have also spoken with my family up in Te Awamutu about what I would do, knowing communication may be limited for a while. If disaster strikes here, stress would impact them too.

None of this is driven by stress or anxiety, I feel calm and practical. Taking small steps as we go add up and can make all the difference in the world.

Check out guides online for more detailed lists of what to prepare. Living in a geologically active country where we experience earthquakes, landslides, and extreme weather events, there is plenty we can do for ourselves should our time come for a large event. We are not powerless, and whatever happens, we are in this together.

Become a trainee line mechanic, learn from the best, while working outdoors and in your community.

Enjoying the power

The energy sector is proving to be one of the most rewarding and futurefocused places to build a career — particularly for young people 2who want to earn well, stay local and make a real difference in their communities.

That’s the message from Jordan Hughes, Southern Area Manager at The Lines Company (TLC), whose own journey shows what’s possible with the right attitude and support.

After starting straight out of school as a trainee line mechanic, Jordan has progressed from the tools to leading TLC’s southern network within a decade.

“I didn’t know what I wanted to do when I was finishing school,” he said. “I came into TLC with no prior study — just a good attitude and a willingness to learn. Everything else, you learn on the job.”

With energy infrastructure underpinning every home, business and community, the work is varied, meaningful and essential.

“At first, the appeal was having a secure, local job and not needing to leave home,” Jordan says.

“Now, it’s about the impact — what we do affects every part of the community. Everyone needs power.”

He credits TLC’s team culture and mentoring.

“There are no silly questions here,” says Jordan. “The culture is about letting people have a go, backing them and helping them grow. That’s what makes the difference.”

Applications are open for Trainee Line Mechanic positions for the northern network area, based in and around Te Kūiti. Jordan’s message to young people considering their future is simple: “this could be you.”

“If you’re willing to learn, muck in and give opportunities a crack, this industry can take you a long way,” Jordan says.

Bridge gets a facelift

Abseilers have been working on the isolated Bridge to Nowhere near the Whanganui River.

The near-90 year old bridge has been given a facelift.

“It’s remote, a relic of past settlements, standing alone in otherwise dense bush – and the Bridge to Nowhere has become somewhere to see,” Department of Conservation Project Lead Michael Christie said.

The bridge was built for

veterans settling after WWI in the Mangapurua Valley. But six years on, in 1942 the land had been abandoned.

Today tourists come - most by boat and bike – to look at what remains.

DOC has a regular maintenance schedule to keep the bridge in good condition. Moisture to seeps into concrete and causes rust in the supporting rebar.

“Structurally, the bridge is still

very sound, so we’re really doing this work to ensure it remains that way for many years to come,” site foreman Vincent Smith said.

“The main challenge for us hasn’t been the remoteness but managing the visitors who have been coming through the active worksite. They’ve been really interested in our work though, which is neat - it’s something a bit different for visitors.”

The bridge is now fully open.

NO COPY DELIVERED?

FOR BLOOMING BEAUTIES AND PLANTS THAT THRIVE

Katrina Christison Tidy Gardens

Bulb Planting Time

Planning for Spring Colour

Now is the perfect time to start thinking about planting bulbs for spring. The days are still warm, but as autumn settles in, it’s the ideal moment to get bulbs into the ground so they can establish over winter and reward you with colour when spring arrives.

Bulbs are one of the easiest ways to create impact in the garden. With very little effort now, you can enjoy months of flowers later. Tulips, daffodils, hyacinths, freesias, ranunculus and anemones all reward a little bit of planning with beautiful seasonal displays.

Start With Good Preparation

Bulbs perform best in well-drained soil. Before planting, loosen the soil and mix in some compost or organic matter. This improves drainage and gives the bulbs the nutrients they need to establish strong roots through autumn and winter.

A simple rule for planting depth is about two to three times the height of the bulb. Larger bulbs like daffodils and tulips go deeper, while smaller bulbs such as freesias and anemones sit a little closer to the surface. If you’re planting in the garden, try to group bulbs in clusters or drifts rather than straight lines. Nature rarely plants in rows, and planting this way creates a much more natural look when they flower.

Layering Bulbs in Pots

One of the best tricks for long-lasting colour is layering bulbs in pots, sometimes called a “bulb lasagne.” It sounds fancy, but it’s actually very simple.

The idea is to plant bulbs in layers so they flower one after another instead of all at once.

Start with a good-sized pot that has drainage holes.

Fill the bottom with quality potting mix. Plant the largest bulbs first (such as tulips or daffodils).

Cover with more mix and add the next layer of medium bulbs (like hyacinths or ranunculus).

Add another layer of mix and plant smaller

bulbs near the top (such as freesias, anemones, or grape hyacinths).

Finish with a final layer of potting mix and water well.

As spring arrives, the top layer will flower first, followed by the layers beneath it, giving you weeks of colour from a single pot.

Think About Placement Bulbs look fantastic in containers near entryways, on decks, or around outdoor seating areas where you can enjoy the flowers up close. In garden beds, they work beautifully planted under deciduous trees, along pathways, or tucked between perennials that will grow up later in the season.

So if you’ve been thinking about adding some spring colour to your garden, early March is the perfect time to start. Grab a few bulbs, a pot or two, and get planting. Your future self will thank you when the garden bursts into life.

Farewell great champion

By Viv Posselt

Among the many laudatory tributes heard at Alan Livington’s farewell on Monday, the poignant voices of his grandchildren spoke to what was most important.

“He was the coolest person in my life,” said one, “he’d take me to the bakery after sport, even if I didn’t win.”

A small girl said her grandpa would play with her whenever she wanted, except when the rugby was on, and another directed a quiet voice to the casket, remembering his grandfather’s help with pet lambs. “I won four trophies because of it... it will be different now because you are not there to help.”

Each of those nine grandchildren spoke into the mic, some supported by a parent and brave enough just to say, ‘I love you’ as they said their goodbyes.

They, and Alan and Janet Livingston’s three children – Anna, Megan and Andrew – gave voice to the more private Alan Livingston, the man less familiar to most of the 600 plus people who gathered at Mighty River Domain’s Don Rowlands Centre on Monday morning. His casket was welcomed with a pōwhiri by Ngāti Korokī Kahakura and Ngāti Haua.

His funeral was attended by many regional and national individuals, including former PM Helen Clark, Taupō MP Louise Upston, mayors and former mayors including Mike Pettit, Jim Mylchreest, Paula Southgate, Tim Macindoe, Mahé Drysdale and Adrienne Wilcock, former and regional councillors including past chair Bob Simcock, and former speaker of the House, Margaret Wilson.

and where he captained both the 1st VX rugby and the 1st 11 cricket teams. From there it was on to do an agri/comm degree from Lincoln University, growing his passion for sport at the same time. His ingenuity showed early when as students, he and his flatmates raised a pig to pay for a semester’s groceries.

While in Christchurch, Alan met nursing student Janet. They married a few years later, and last year celebrated their 50th wedding

His children commented on the example gifted by their parents, the ‘rhythm’ of everyday life, Alan’s love of the land, his calm demeanour and resolute practicality, their constant support at their sports games and other events. They learned that a firm handshake with eyes locked was important, that community mattered as much as firm principles, that dinners could be left to get cold while he attended to someone’s needs on the

Family was everything to Alan, and both he and Janet worked tirelessly to fit community into their life. His achievements are widely documented, and from the time he first entered local government his wise counsel and grit was

Many of Waipa’s landmark projects - the Waikato Expressway, the velodrome, Mighty River Domain and the Don Rowlands Centre – are said to have got across the line only through Alan’s tenaciousness.

Rahui Papa, who described Alan as “a bloody good guy’, said he was masterful in bringing people together.

Tributes came from members of the family, the co-chair of the Ngāti Korokī Kahuhura Trust, Rahui Papa, Sport Waikato chief executive Matthew Cooper, Brian Perry Charitable Trust chair Simon Perry, former WDC chief executive Garry Dyet, Louise Upston, and regional councillor Liz Stolwyk. Messages were read out from some who couldn’t attend, including Olympian Rob Waddell and Hamilton West MP Tama Potaka. Alan died unexpectedly at his much-loved Te Pahū home on April 12. It was there he had spent most of his life after his parents moved from Gisborne, where he was born, to the Waikato when he was just one. After attending Te Pahū School, Alan went to Waitaki Boys’ High in Oamaru where he continued to excel

He said the next Kiwi chick set for release from Maungatautari to Wellington’s Zealandia, set for later this month, would be named Big Al in honour of Alan’s love for the environment.

Simon Perry said Alan had brought the region much success via his projects, including the 65km cycle trail he himself enjoyed. He had seen two of three big projects come to fruition – Mighty River Domain and the velodrome; he missed out on the third, the New Zealand Sports Hall of Fame, due for completion next year.

“Alan’s story is not written in words… it is built into the places he leaves behind. Waipā Home of Champions was inspired by Alan’s vision,” he said.

“For many of us, Waipā’s greatest champion of all was Alan.”

BUY 3 FOR

JR Shield goes on the line

By Dan Tasker

The JR Shield goes up for grabs as Waitete and Piopio jockey for a seat in the top four at the Rukuhia Domain on Saturday.

It’s always a spicy encounter when the two North King Country rivals face-off and Saturday’s King Country premier club round five match has all the hallmarks of another doosie.

The JR Shield is a beautifully carved shield played for between the two clubs to honour the memory of shearer James Ritchie following his untimely death in 2018.

Waitete carried the JR Shield through 2025 after coming out on top in both clashes against Piopio, although the green-and-golds almost pinched the return match in a 31-29 classic in Te Kūiti.

For the winner, the match presents an opportunity set-up camp in the top four and stay connected to the competition’s unbeaten leaders Taumarunui Districts and Taupō Marist – lose, and risk being swallowed by the peloton of Eels and Taupō Sports.

In other round five action, Waitomo welcome Taupō Marist to the Waitomo Domain, while Taupō Sports take on Districts at Taupō’s

Owen Delany Park.

Coming off the bye in round three, Waitete showed their topfour credentials to see off a gallant Taupō Sports 31-24 in Te Kūiti last weekend, but not before a bit of a scare from the fast-finishing visitors.

The blue bellies galloped out to a 24-5 lead by the 65-minute mark, thanks to tries from Raiden van Herpen, Baven Brown Jnr and Kees Muller plus a penalty to Callum Hedley.

But after struggling to convert opportunities into points for the guts of the game, Taupō Sports finally made the pressure pay with two quick tries to Kaharoa Takuira-Mita and Shaquille Waara to trail 24-17 with seven minutes to play.

Looking for the knock-out blow, Taupō Sports had a tiring Waitete on the ropes only to throw an intercept to Brown Jnr, who scampered 80 metres to seal victory for the home team.

An injury-time try to Taupō hooker Liam Rowlands ensured two bonus points for the visitors, but the Peter Kemp-coached side will know they need to tidy up their execution if they are to feature in the top four.

Punters were also treated to

the highest level of officiating as international referee Paul Williams oversaw proceedings as part of King Country Referees’ centenary celebrations.

In other round four results, an injury-marred Taupō Marist were

Tuikubulau double for blues

By Jesse Wood

The Ōtorohanga Sports men’s Waikato Club Rugby premier teams had a tough trip into Hamilton on Saturday.

In their first away game of 2026, the premier golds lost 22-7 to Fraser Tech at Mill Street Park.

Reserve forward Turuva Lumelume scored the sole try for the visitors, while pivot Manaaki Rewi-Wetini add the conversion.

Norman Wise – son of former Ōtorohanga, Waikato, King Country and Fiji forward Anthony – scored one of Fraser Tech’s three tries.

In the earlier clash, the Ōtorohanga premier development blues side lost

53-21 to Fraser Tech B. Waikato hooker Manaaki Boyle-Tiatia – son of former Manu Samoa hooker Ace – scored one of Tech B’s tries.

Centre Josaia Tuikubulau grabbed a double for the blues, while ever-present winger Isoa Dobui scored the third try.

Halfback Zach Coles converted all three.

The men’s teams will both have a tough challenge on Anzac weekend as they host Hamilton Marist at Island Reserve.

The third-placed women’s premiership side had a bye and prepare to take on second-placed Hamilton Old Boys Huskiez this weekend at Hamilton’s Willoughby Park.

lucky to hold on to the Hetet Shield against Eels, who lead late but ultimately fell short 27-19 in Taupō.

Josevata Malimoce (Taupō Marist) and Arwin Leatuafi (Eels) received red cards for fighting, and both are likely to face a two-

game stand-down or challenge the decision at a judicial hearing. Districts beat Waitomo 100-0 at the Taumarunui Domain, the bonus-point win catapulting them to outright top-of-the-table, while Piopio had the bye.

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Service focus was on gratitude

By Viv Posselt

Te Awamutu padre Rev Murray Olson chose gratitude as the theme for his sermon at last Sunday’s Anzac Day service at Pukeatua War Memorial Church.

He urged the congregation to remember the pain that continues to be inflicted on many countries through war and urged them to embrace gratitude, primarily for the geographic isolation that means New Zealanders can still enjoy the freedoms for which so many have fought and died.

The tiny rural church is one of just two in New Zealand built as a

memorial to service personnel lost in the world wars.

It is unusual in that it was ‘adopted’ years ago by members of the Hauraki Chapter of the Patriots Defence Force Motorcycle Club, all of them either past or present defence force members.

Twice a year, a number of them ride from around the central North Island to attend Anzac and Armistice services at the church, and in between, they raise funds to help with its upkeep.

Rev Olson spoke of a visit he and his wife made last year to Malta, during which they toured the tunnels in which many Maltese

sheltered during the lengthy assault by Germans and Italians during World War II.

“That small island became one of the most bombed places in the world,” he said. “Those forced to shelter in the tunnels suffered terrible health problems due to the unsanitary conditions, including an outbreak of typhoid. It was very

moving to visit those places. The Maltese islanders were awarded the George Cross in 1942 for their bravery.

“World War I soldiers suffered similarly in the trenches. Their stories tell us we should be grateful that our isolation from the frontline action in two world wars meant we did not have to suffer like that.”

Sunday’s service was attended by members of the Te Awamutu Community Cadet Unit, and Te Kuiti and Districts Pipe Band member Peter Anderson. Wreaths were laid at the cenotaph, among them a wreath from the Pukeatua community, laid by brothers James and Benjamin Anderson.

Heroic soldier remembered

By Viv Posselt

An unexpected window of sunshine doused Hautapu Cemetery on Sunday as a new headstone was unveiled for decorated WW1 soldier, Sergeant Adam Cunningham.

The unveiling, more than 80 years after his death, marked the culmination of efforts by the New Zealand Remembrance Army (NZRA) and Cambridge RSA to restore Cunningham’s name and story to public memory. Until Sunday, he lay in an unmarked grave.

The highly decorated soldier served with the First Battalion, New Zealand Rifle Brigade. His courage during WW1 is said to have helped turn the tide of the war on the battlefields of France and earned him both the Military Medal (MM) and the Distinguished Conduct Medal (DCM).

NZRA man, Cambridge’s Alan Sherris, said Cunningham was a man of extraordinary courage … “yet for decades his grave told nothing of who he was or what he gave. The headstone puts his name back where it belongs and ensures his service is never forgotten.”

Cunningham earned the MM at Heburterne, France,

on July 15, 1918. On the night before an assault, he volunteered to patrol alone to map German positions and report back with critical intelligence that shaped the next day’s attack. When his platoon was pinned down, Cunningham ordered covering fire, crawled forward under heavy fire and confronted the enemy machine-gun crew at bayonet point, forcing their surrender.

Later the same year, he received the DCM after leading a bold charge with just 12 men against a heavily occupied trench following an enemy counterattack.

Cunningham was born in Scotland on May 20, 1897, and came to New Zealand around 1909. He went on to fight in the battles of the Sommes, Messines and Passchendaele, and when injured, spent time recuperating in England.

Once the war was over, he returned to New Zealand and worked on the Karāpiro hydro-electric project. He was killed in a workplace accident on January 1, 1941, aged 53.

Alan Sherris said unmarked graves are common in New Zealand cemeteries, which is why the NZRA works to identify and commemorate veterans buried without recognition.

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ADDRESS 533 Hoturoa Street, Kawhia LAND SIZE 845 sqm (more or less)

HOUSE 3 bedrooms, 1 living room, 2 bathrooms, 2 garages

PRICE Deadline Closes Wed 6 May 1pm (unless sold prior)

WEBSITE monarchsouthwest.co.nz

WEB ID OH22834

VIEW Open Home Saturday 25 April, 2.45 - 3.15pm

Harty M 027 294 6215

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Sunday

with Jan Bilton

A hug in a bowl

Soup is probably as old as the history of cooking. Combining meats and vegetables in large pots with water, herbs and spices provided nourishing meals for all socio-economic groups and cultures. Soups evolved according to local ingredients and tastes.

Consommé, the thinnest of all soups, was apparently developed in France in the late 1700s. A French King was so enamoured with himself that he had his chefs develop a soup that would allow him to see his own reflection in the bowl. True or not, consommé is perhaps the best pre-dinner soup as it sharpens rather than dulls the appetite.

Classic options like pumpkin, chicken noodle and minestrone are comfort food. They rely on simple ingredients transformed by time and gentle heat.

Root vegetables such as parsnips, carrots and potatoes release natural sweetness, while dried peas, beans and lentils add body and protein. Spices and herbs add extra flavour, from thyme and bay leaves to cumin and ginger.

Texture matters too: silky purées soothe, while chunky combinations feel rustic and satisfying. A splash of acid or a drizzle of olive oil can brighten rich flavours, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs adds colour. Shared at the table, soups invite conversation and slow evenings.

Thai pumpkin & capsicum soup

1kg pumpkin, peeled, seeded, cut into 5cm chunks

2 tablespoons olive oil

freshly ground salt and pepper to taste

2 shallots, diced

2 red capsicums, seeded, torn into 3cm pieces

2 tablespoons Thai red curry paste

2 tablespoons grated palm or brown sugar

2 cups water

400ml can coconut cream

420g can canned white or black beans, drained

Garnish: grated lime rind

coriander sprigs lime wedges

Preheat the oven to 200°C. Place the prepared pumpkin in a large roasting pan and toss together with the oil. Season. Roast for 20 minutes.

Add the shallots and capsicums, then continue roasting for 15 minutes or until the veggies are soft.

Tip into a large saucepan. Stir in the curry paste and sugar until combined. Then add the water. Cover and simmer for 10 minutes. Purée with a stick blender or in a food processor until smooth. Return to the saucepan.

Slowly add the coconut cream, stirring well. Bring to a simmer. Add the beans to the soup and warm through. Or serve on the side to add after the soup is served.

Serve topped with grated lime rind and coriander. Serve lime wedges on the side to squeeze into the soup if preferred. Makes 8 cups.

Parsnip soup with air fryer croutons

Croutons: 3 toast thick slices white bread, crusts removed 1/4 cup olive oil

Soup: 1 tablespoon olive oil

700g parsnip, peeled and chopped

2 cloves garlic, crushed 1/2 teaspoon whole cumin seeds freshly ground black pepper to taste

4 cups vegetable stock

1/2 cup cream

To make the croutons, brush both sides of the bread slices with the oil. Cut into 2cm cubes.

Preheat the air fryer to 180°C. Add the cubes and cook for 4-5

minutes until golden, shaking them often. Cool and store in an airtight container.

To make the soup, heat the oil in a heavy-based saucepan on medium. Add the parsnips and fry for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add the garlic and cumin seeds and stir-fry for 1 minute. Season.

Pour in the stock, stir, and bring to a simmer. Cover and cook for 12-15 minutes or until the parsnip is tender. Purée until smooth. Reheat carefully.

Serve topped with the cream and croutons. Serves 4-6.

Quick Minestrone

Add extra fresh veggies if you wish, and/or a can of dried beans such as cannellini.

2 x 400g cans diced tomatoes and juice

4 cups good chicken stock

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 cup dried macaroni

400g can kidney beans, drained

2 cups frozen green beans

salt and black pepper to taste

2-3 cups finely sliced spinach

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Place the tomatoes and juice in a large saucepan and bring to the boil. Add the stock, oregano and macaroni. Simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the macaroni is cooked. Add the kidney beans and the green beans and cook until tender, about 5 minutes. Season well and add the spinach. Stir until wilted. Ladle into bowls and sprinkle with the Parmesan. Great served with crusty bread. Serves 4-6.

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Enquiries to: Bridget Boshier or David Bailey – Otorohanga

Kelly Bair – Te Awamutu 07 873 7325

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advertising

WHEELER, Mary Elizabeth

Betty, nee Thompson –Died peacefully with family by her side on Saturday April 18, 2026, aged 95 years. Soulmate and adored wife of the late Trevor Sidney Wheeler. Dearly loved mother of Warren, Malcolm, Colin and Lynda. Beloved grandma of 9 grandchildren and 5 great grandchildren. Betty touched the hearts of many and will be fondly remembered. Sincere and heartfelt thanks to all the staff at Beattie Home and Hospital. A private cremation has taken place and her funeral will be held at St Brides Anglican Church, Otorohanga on Sunday May 3 at 1:30pm. All welcome. All communications to Wheeler Family c/- PO Box 241, Te Kuiti 3941. VJ Williams & Sons, Funeral Directors Association of NZ

LEE, Mary Elizabeth –

01/05/1925–18/04/2026 passed away peacefully on Saturday April 18, 2026, aged 100 years. Dearly loved wife of the late Roy. Dearly loved mother of Graeme and Kirsty and Diane and Doug. She was a grandmother, great-grandmother, and great-great-grandmother. A service to celebrate Mary’s life has been held followed by a private cremation. Our family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the caring staff at Hillview Home for the kindness, compassion, and wonderful care they gave Mary in her final years. All communications to Lee Family c/- PO Box 241, Te Kuiti 3941. VJ Williams & Sons, Funeral Directors Association of NZ

MASTERS, Pauline Joan (nee Lawley) – Pauline passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, 15th April 2026, at Waikato Hospital. Aged 84 years. Dearly loved wife of Michael for 56 years. Much loved Mum of Russell, Ruth and Stuart. Mother in law of Donna, Richelle and Jillian. Grandma to Amber, Jorja, Moleigh, Courtney and Samantha. A celebration of Pauline’s life has been held. All communications c/Masters family, P O Box 137, Te Awamutu.

King Country Christians meet every Sunday in the Piopio Senior Citizens Hall, Weka Street, Piopio, at 10.30am

Phone Judy 021135946 Everyone is welcome! Phone Judy 0211359346 ŌTOROHANGA BAPTIST

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