King Country News | August 6, 2026

Bypass call – again

By Roy Pilott

Waitomo mayor John Robertson doubts the road through the Awakino Gorge will ever be resilient.

It’s why he continues to push for an alternative route.

The key link between Taranaki and the greater Waikato will be closed for four days later this month to allow the New Zealand Transport Agency to install three new culverts.

It’s the next step by NZTA to restore twolane access following multiple slips and damage caused by severe weather in April.

The work is expensive and will impact on businesses – but it’s another sticking plaster.

Bad weather in particular – and more

recently the Taumarunui earthquake on July 25 – dislodge tonnes of material which blocks the highway through the gorge.

The number of recent closures is reaching double figures.

“Slips that have closed this road have been coming down for decades,” Robertson told The News.

New Plymouth mayor Max Brough says closures are becoming routine.

Ia Ara Aotearoa Transporting New Zealand backs using Taumatamaire Road as an emergency diversion route.

Chief executive Dom Kalasih says they are not seeking an alternative to the gorge – but a route which could be used under specific condition.

That might mean, for example, using the

road as a one way road which is open from the north and south on alternate hours.

The Government has allocated an additional $50 million to try to make the gorge road more resilient and Robertson says NZTA is working on options to see how this might best be spent.

“I look forward to seeing their proposals. I worry that $50 million will not resolve the issues.”

He wants some invested on a bypass.

Taumatamaire Road is that potential bypass – but it would require considerable investment to upgrade it to a level where it could be used by heavy vehicles.

Robertson has raised his concerns with Transport Minister Chris Bishop.

“The challenge of what to do reminds me of the Manawatu Gorge. Valiant attempts were made over the years to fix it, but eventually the Crown decided to replace it by building the Manawatū Tararua Highway,” Robertson said.

“The Awakino Gorge is not of this scale. Nor is a replacement of a section of the state highway being suggested. A bypass would instead enable road users to continue to their destination when road closures occur.”

It’s estimated one in five of the 2500-4000 vehicles going through the gorge each day are carrying freight – well above te national average.

“Currently, when the Gorge is closed, trucks must go down to Whanganui and back up to New Plymouth incurring around an additional $1000 per trip,” Robertson said.

In addition, businesses in communities like Mōkau miss out on the passing traffic which makes their operations viable.

Robertson acknowledged the work carried out by NZTA especially in winter conditions – to try and stabilise the hills and cliffs in the gorge - “we all appreciate this work”.

On their medals

Athletes with strong links to Waipā and northern King Country picked up 11 of the 36 medals won by New Zealand at the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.

Ōtorohanga connected cyclist Nicole Murray (pictured) rode herself to exhaustion in sealing the bronze medal in the women’s C4-C5 individual pursuit.

With her record at major events Murray should be a household name in New Zealand.

She’s won 13 medals, including two gold, in world para track champs and three more in the equivalent road champs, and won a bronze medal in the 2024 Paris Paralympics. Cyclist Emma Foy and stoker Jessie Hodges (Ngāhinapōuri) won two gold and Cambridge’s Devon Briggs one of the 10 collected by New Zealand.

There were silvers for Bryony Botha, Ally Woolaston, Ellesse Andrews and Tori Moorby and bronze to Te Awamutu’s Hazel Ouwehand, Briggs, Andrews and Ōtorohanga’s Nicole Murray.

New Zealand finished sixth on the medal table with 10 gold, 14 silver and 12 bronze medals.

We counted 11 athletes at the games had links to the Good Local Media circulation area through family, or living and training in the area and eight spent time on the podium.

Remembering whaea Liane

By Dan Tasker

A belated Matariki celebration brought Pukenui School students, whānau and the wider community together in a celebration of connection and remembrance last week.

Matariki, which was publicly celebrated on July 10 this year, is a time to celebrate the Māori New Year and remember those who have passed away, celebrate whānau and look ahead to the future.

More than 150 people came down to the school for an afternoon of community fun centred around Matariki, which included games, food and kapa haka performances.

The event has become a community favourite in recent times after it replaced the school gala six years ago, and principal Dorothy Carr highlighted it as an important connection point for the school community.

“I tried to make it more of an authentic context of why we celebrate Matariki, rather than just having a school gala,” Carr said.

“It’s just to connect to Te Ao Māori and having the whānau in the school and wider community,” she said.

This year’s original July 1 date was postponed to term three following the passing of former school whaea Liane Begman-Green, who worked at the school for seven years before leaving at the end of term one.

Matariki festival, it made it more meaningful because next year we’ll remember at Matariki somebody that’s given something back to us,” Carr said.

As part of their learning through term two and three, students studied different areas related to Matariki, Carr said.

relationships, acknowledging those who have gone before,” she said.

Pukenui’s Matariki celebrations have been scaled back since the days of the school gala, as a way of keeping things simple and promoting community connection.

“We used to have school galas and galas are fun, but they’re huge and you need a really big team to run one,” Carr said.

“We leave it to the teachers and how they want to connect things to Matariki. You could do a big thing around space and astrology or Māori myths and legends,” Carr said.

“It’s quite nice because it’s authentically fun; it’s not all flash,” she said.

Carr said Matariki became a fitting way for the wider school community to remember whaea Liane and all she had done at Pukenui School.

“When whaea Liane passed away at the end of last term and we had to postpone our

“We’ve done a lot of stuff on relationships, because with our kids, a lot of it’s around building positive relationships – what’s your connection to your whānau, respectful

Funds raised from the event will be used to support Education Outside The Classroom (EOTC) experiences for students, Carr said.

Two youths from the King Country allegedly stole a vehicle and committed a burglary in the Cambridge area.

The pair were apprehended after being involved in a vehicle crash. They had only recently been granted bail in relation to other offences. Police opposed bail, and both youths have since been remanded in custody. Further dishonesty-related incidents remain under investigation and may be linked to the pair.

Police executed a search warrant at an Ōtorohanga address following the recovery of a stolen van from the property two weeks ago. During the search, officers located a homemade firearm, ammunition, drugs, and drug-related utensils. A 43-year-old occupant has been charged in relation to the items discovered.

Staff also located and arrested a 26-yearold man in Ōtorohanga who was actively

breaching his release conditions. The man attempted to flee from police but was quickly apprehended.

In Te Kuiti, Police arrested a 37-yearold man who was wanted for breaching a Protection Order. Bail was opposed, and he has been remanded in custody.

Police attended a crash on State Highway 3 where a vehicle left the roadway, went through a fence, and came to rest in a paddock. Prior to the crash, there were reports of the vehicle being driven on the wrong side of the road. Police are awaiting the results of blood analysis.

Officers also attended a sudden death at a workplace in Te Kuiti, where a 58-yearold man passed away. The matter has been referred to the Coroner. Our thoughts and condolences are with the man’s family, friends, and colleagues during this difficult time.

Search and Rescue volunteers and police were deployed to assist in the search for a missing man in Benneydale. Thankfully, he was located the following day by a member of the public who had joined the search efforts.

A special thank you goes to the local Women’s Refuge and other community support agencies that dedicated their time across Ōtorohanga, Te Kuiti, and the Mōkau area as part of Dry July-focused initiatives. These campaigns aimed to encourage conversations among friends and family about safer drinking practices and ways to reduce alcohol-related harm within our communities.

As always, thank you for your continued support. Please continue to report suspicious vehicles, people, or behaviour when you see it.

Briefs…

Ka pai

Piopio’s Village Bakery is the home of a gold medal winning pie. Tour Khin’s creamy paua and cheese pie won the gourmet meat section of the Bakels Supreme Pie Awards announced this week.

Final fling

Tahāroa Steelers will feature in two Waikato rugby league finals this weekend at Huntly’s Davies Park. The Senior A final features the Steelers against the Hauraki Tigers on Saturday and the following day the Steelers take on Taniwharau in the women’s premier final.

In the ring

Te Awamutu boxer Floyd Masson will face Hamilton’s David Nyika in Auckland on Saturday. The Queensland based pair will square up for a mandatory shot at the vacant IBF cruiserweight title.

Powerful tips

Heartland Services will host free Home Energy workshops in Te Kūiti later this month to help residents better understand their power bills and reduce household energy costs. The one-hour sessions on August 18 and 19 presented by The Lines Company will discuss keeping homes warmer, reducing heat loss, ventilation, hot water lighting savings, appliance running costs and choosing the best power plan.

Seven stand

Seven candidates are chasing three seats on the Waitomo Energy Services Customer Trust. They are Shane Carr, Cathy Prendergast, Andy Connors, Maria Ralph, Shelley Mitchell and sitting trustee Yvette Ronaldson. Sitting trustees Janette Osborne and chair William Oliver are not seeking reelection. The online and postal vote will include a poll to determine the future of the shares now held by the Trust.

Making Tatsumo tempting

By Dan Tasker

The search for the next group of youngsters to undertake a trip of a lifetime to Waitomo’s sister city Tatsuno in Japan next year is underway.

More than 100 people packed into a room at Centennial Park School in Te Kūiti on Monday evening to hear about the ins and outs of the next Tatsuno trip proposed for June next year.

Waitomo Sister City committee chairperson Janette Osborne said the information evening was all about helping local children and their parents understand the commitment, expectations and rewards that came with the trip.

“It is a big undertaking for the students and for their families. It is also, without question, one of the finest opportunities this district can offer a young person,” Osborne said.

Members of the Waitomo Sister City committee, who organise the trip every second year, spoke to Year 6 and 7 students about what they can expect during the visit and the opportunities it provides to experience Japanese culture.

Applicants will fund their trip expenses of usually around $3000, be comfortable being away from home and open to new experiences.

To apply, students were invited to write a onepage hand-written letter outlining why they should be selected, provide two school progress reports and a character reference from one of their teachers by August 31.

A shortlist of candidates will be chosen from the group of applicants, who will go through an interview process on September 21 to determine the successful individuals.

A number of people who had gone on the trip in

the past spoke to the group, including one of last year’s students Reid Koroheke, who spoke of his experiences.

“During our trip, we also had the opportunity to travel on Japan’s famous bullet train. It was an incredible experience to travel at such high speeds, while enjoying the beautiful scenery along the way,” Reid said.

“Later in the trip, we spent our final two nights in Tokyo, where we visited the iconic Shibuya Crossing and enjoyed some souvenir shopping.”

The long-standing relationship between Waitomo and Tatsuno traces its origins to an unlikely friendship formed after World War II

between Tatsuno’s Professor Kinase and Waitomo’s squadron leader Les Munro.

Despite having served on opposite sides during the war, the pair discovered their communities shared a number of similarities, including Tatsuno’s famous fireflies and Waitomo’s glow worms.

Those connections eventually led to the sister city agreement being signed at the Te Kūiti Pā on March 30, 1995, establishing a partnership aimed at promoting friendship, goodwill and cultural understanding between the two communities.

The relationship reached another milestone last year when Waitomo and Tatsuno celebrated the 30th anniversary of the sister city friendship.

Familiar face takes city post

Hamilton city’s new area police commander knows a thing or two about the King Country.

Waikato District Police have welcomed two new leaders into their roles to oversee the city and serious crime and investigations across the district.

Inspector Scott Miller and Detective Inspector Kevin McNaughton were welcomed at Kirikiriroa Marae in Hamilton late last month.

Father of two Scott Miller, the new Hamilton City Area Commander, was raised in Hamilton and comes from a service minded family –his father Rex headed the CIB in Hamilton before reaching the retirement age of 55 in 1999.

He joined the police in 1991 and was posted to Te Kuiti where he learnt about community and rural policing.

The pair were joined at the marae

by family and colleagues including Assistant Commissioner Jeanette Park and District Commander Superintendent Scott Gemmell.

McNaughton is the district’s new Crime Manager and recently joined Waikato District from a workgroup in the National Criminal Investigations Group. In his 28 years of policing, he has worked in Counties Manukau, Waitematā and Canterbury districts.

He will oversee Waikato District’s serious and criminal investigations.

Miller succeeds Inspector Andrea McBeth as Hamilton City Area Commander.

In his 36 years in the force he has built experience across workgroups including response, investigations, prevention and youth aid, along with working in tactical teams as both a dog handler and member of the Armed Offenders Squad.

After being promoted to senior

sergeant he went on to supervise road policing, city prevention and response and acted as area commander for periods. Most recently he held the role of Community and Youth Inspector

overseeing

a

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AGE OF REASON

An adult conversation

By Richard Steele

The Prime Minister is in trouble, again, for telling business leaders to act like adults.

I think he has a point. Are people in life generally, or in business specifically, rightly blaming the government for their financial woes, or are we suffering from a deeper malaise?

I’m not sure, but let me share three examples with you, of business opportunities going begging, and see what you reckon.

I can’t be specific exactly, though I’m sure you will get the drift.

I have a house project on the go. I need a tradesman. My cost guess, maybe $20,000, but I’ve asked two firms for an estimate, and have heard nothing back. Maybe they are too busy.

A second project needs a quote and a ballpark figure from basic research in a field completely unknown to me is somewhere in the $75,000 to $100,000 range. I’ll have to get funding for it.

Same story. No replies to my offer of work. Not “I’m too busy at the moment, call me later”. Nothing.

The third example is even more bizarre, as it involves me spending between $200,000 and $300,000 dollars for an item I use often, and is an important part of our business.

So being the prudent person I think I am, I’ve asked three specialists who manufacture this product, and you’ve guessed it - no replies.

There is no trouble with the money, our credit record is good, and always has been. I’ve given each company a good lead in period, there was no rush when I started out on these missions, still no interest.

So what’s going on here?

Is the Prime Minister right?

Are businesspeople complaining about a bit of something that has come about as a consequence of their own lack of effort? Have we had it so good for so long that rather than look at ourselves to see what’s wrong, it’s become an automatic response to blame someone else?

I happen to agree that the so called cost of living crisis is hurting a lot of families, and that the continual increases in price of everything is very hard to keep abreast of. But I see this other side as well , where people can’t be bothered to help themselves, and I shake my head and wonder.

There’s another issue as well that bothers that prudent side of me, and that’s election promises.

This election is too close to call, but any party that offers anything we can’t as a country afford will not go close to getting my vote.

So that’s my message in a nutshell. The world is in economic turmoil, not the country. We all have to take responsibility for what we can control.

Briefs…

Powered up

A new electric vehicle presented last week will help the Tūrangi Foodbank team continue delivering support to families across the wider Tūrangi area, thanks to a partnership between The Lines Company and Genesis.

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An Oscar for Daniel

By Dan Tasker

The excitement is building for Te Kūiti scout Daniel Lindsay as he prepares to perform in the 10th Waikato Gang Show at the end of the month.

Gang shows are theatre productions performed by members of the scouts and guides movements.

The Waikato Gang Show first began with scouts and guides performing the show ‘Doors’ in 2008 and shows have been held every second year bar one.

This year’s show, ‘Here we go again!’, is a collection of each of the nine previous productions to celebrate the 10th edition, woven together by director Seattle Tupuhi, producer Ross Murphy and chairman Ken Wedgwood, as a tribute to the growing Waikato Gang Show legacy.

Lindsay, 12, attends the Te Kūiti scout group and will perform in this year’s milestone gang show. It’s his gang show after featuring in the 2024 production ‘The Wizard of Odd’.

The Rangitoto School student will play a boy scout named ‘Oscar’ in the cast of 76 at Riverlea Theatre in Hamilton at the end of the month.

“My character Oscar starts off as a scouting boy and is scared of scarecrow, lion, tin man, Dorothy and Toto, because they melted the witch. He really doesn’t want to be melted,” Lindsay said.

Rehearsals have been underway every Sunday since the end of May, and the cast move are about to move

to dress rehearsals.

“The last show was more based off one storyline for the Wizard of Odd. This one is more exhausting because you’ve got heaps of different scenes from all the different shows,” Lindsay said.

Part of Lindsay’s effort in the show is going towards his ‘Chief Scout’s’ award, which includes

components of adventure skills, core activities, community projects and reflection.

He began at the Te Awamutu cubs four years after his Mum Jessica, who was a guide as a girl, took him along. He graduated to the scouts two years later and now goes to a weekly scout group in Te Kūiti his Mum helped get up and running.

Three days to go

By Mary Anne Gill

If there is one thing fast-tracked local government reform process has shown, it is that nobody likes being told to reorganise in three months.

With just three days until the Government’s August 9 deadline for Head Start proposals, positions are becoming clear across the Waikato.

For months Hamilton appeared to assume the conversation would revolve around the metropolitan growth area encompassing Hamilton, Waikato and Waipā.

The city’s argument has been consistent. Housing, transport, employment and infrastructure already operate across a single urban system and governance should catch up.

The problem for Hamilton is that other councils have not necessarily bought into that vision.

Ōtorohanga and Waitomo developed a joint Head Start proposal. The two councils approved a proposal for a “King Country future” on Tuesday.

“This isn’t a decision to merge councils,” Ōtorohanga mayor Rodney Dow said. “It’s a decision to submit a proposal that we believe deserves serious consideration. If the Government accepts it, there will be more detailed work, more community engagement and more opportunities for people to have their say before any final decisions are made.”

Waitomo District Mayor John Robertson said the communities

already live, work, learn and play across district boundaries.

“We share a strong King Country identity, and this proposal reflects that while also recognising the importance of protecting local representation and local decisionmaking.”

Waikato, Waipā and South Waikato appear to have built momentum around a wider catchment-based model.

South Waikato councillors have voted to pursue a western Waikato unitary option, based around the Waikato River catchment that could include Hamilton, Waikato, Waipā, South Waikato, Taupō, Waitomo and Ōtorohanga.

Taupō District Council voted not to submit a Head Start proposal. Councillors cited concerns about the rushed process, uncertainty around the backstop arrangements and analysis suggesting the district could be financially worse off under amalgamation.

Matamata-Piako and Hauraki have considered an eastern Waikato unitary authority while ThamesCoromandel has identified a proposal involving itself, Hauraki and Matamata-Piako as its preferred model.

On Monday Waikato Regional Council reaffirming its support for a single unitary authority. Hamilton still has population, economic weight and political influence. But while the city has spent months analysing options, neighbouring councils appear to have moved more quickly to establish preferred directions.

A weaver of dreams

Tama Blackburn sees himself as a weaver, bringing together strands of passion and care for the Pureora Forest Park and surrounding areas, to produce

something everyone is proud of. Blackburn, 41, is the Conservation Department’s Project Co-Lead for Pureora, a relatively new role in the Maniapoto team.

He is focused on developing a long-term vision and plan for the forest.

“The attraction of this role was the enormity and complexity of it,” Blackburn says. “It’s not just the Pureora Forest Park, it’s the surrounding areas too.”

He is in close contact with staff from Horizons Regional Council, Waikato Regional Council and Waikato River Authority, Te Awa Tupua, and representatives from Te Nehenehenui, Raukawa, Te Kōtahitanga o Ngāti Tūwharetoa, and Ngāti Hāua.

He is also working alongside project co-lead Kiri Diamond (Tuwharetoa), and Doc treaty

partners who connect to Pureora.

“The aspiration for the project is for our treaty partners and communities to lead how we manage and protect Pureora to bring it all together.”

Tama says it’s been a steep learning curve as he develops knowledge and understanding of what people and organisations see for the future of Pureora.

“When people ask me, ‘what is your job?’, I sum it up as ‘I am the weaver of your dreams.

The role marks his second stint with DOC. He previously worked as a ranger in the Taranaki team, assigned to the Taranaki Maunga Project.

With his Te Nehenehenui affiliations, the position represents a homecoming. His broader whakapapa encompasses Ngāti Maniapoto, Kinohaku, Uekaha, and Pākeha.

Pole position

Funding for Ōtorohanga trio

Sport Waikato supported the distribution of $40,915 through the Tū Manawa Active Aotearoa Fund into three Ōtorohanga organisations in the year to the end of June.

A Sport Waikato Impact Snapshot report submitted to the latest Ōtorohanga District Council meeting highlighted what changed in the town during the year, through community investment, partnerships and collaborative action across play, active recreation and sport.

Sport Waikato helped increase access to quality play, active recreation and sport opportunities across the Ōtorohanga District.

Funding was targeted towards

children and youth who face barriers to participation.

The $40,915 Tū Manawa funding was allocated to Ōtorohanga Riding for the Disabled and Youthtown’s holiday programme and its water confidence and safety project at Ōtorohanga College.

Sport Waikato supported the distribution of a further $110,077 to organisations delivering programmes across multiple Waikato districts, including Ōtorohanga.

That included support for swimming, martial arts, rugby and league in Ōtorohanga.

“Over the past twelve months, we have continued to work alongside

councils, schools, iwi, regional organisations and community partners to strengthen local capability, improve alignment, and support sustainable participation opportunities across the Waikato,” Sport Waikato general manager regional leadership Steve Dalgety said.

“A key focus has been helping partners navigate change while maintaining momentum towards shared outcomes. At a regional level, Sport Waikato has assumed a stronger leadership role in secondary school sport following a strategic review with the Waikato Secondary Schools Sports Association.

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He said the transition provided greater alignment across education, sport and community sectors, while ensuring secondary school voices continued to inform decision-making through an ongoing advisory structure.

“Our commitment to evidenceinformed planning continues to grow through initiatives such as the Moving Waikato Community Survey, Moving Waikato Youth Survey, Voice of Tamariki and Active Xchange movement data,” he said.

“These insights are helping councils and community partners make more informed decisions about investment, planning and delivery.”

Steve Dalgety

District-specific profiles would further strengthen local decisionmaking over the next year by providing a deeper understanding of participation patterns, community needs and emerging opportunities across each district.

Shears win for Wales

By Dan Tasker

The New Zealand shearing team featuring Te Kūiti’s Jack Fagan fell just short of levelling the four-test series against Wales at the Corwen Shears.

Fagan partnering Eketahuna’s Hemi Braddick lost the fourth and final Welsh test in northern Wales by 0.9 points on July 25 to concede the series 3-1.

After losing the opening two tests at Epynt (July 15) and Cothi (July 19), Fagan and Braddick beat Wales by 2.5 points at the Royal Welsh Show in Llanelwedd to keep their hopes of a series comeback alive.

But it wasn’t to be as Welshmen Gwion Lloyd Evans and Gethin Lewis held on in Corwen.

New Zealand manager and Ōtorohanga farmer Digger Balme said the result reflected the strength of Welsh shearing, helped by the Kiwi boys getting used to shearing different sheep.

The five-week tour of the United Kingdom and France got off to a strong start at Lochearnhead in Scotland, where Fagan finished runner-up in the Scottish Blackface Shearing Championship open final.

Fagan and Clay Harris went on to fall short for New Zealand in an unofficial test against Scotland.

Fagan was joined by NZ debutant Braddick for the first of four Welsh tests starting at the Epynt Shears in mid Wales, where the pair were beaten by 6.5 points by Evans and Lewis.

The black singlets bounced back to beat England by 2.25 points in a one-off test at the Great Yorkshire Show in Harrogate, but were beaten again in the Welsh series in second test at Cothi.

The Kiwis kept hopes of a drawn series alive with a 2.5-point win at the Royal Welsh Show.

The competition aside, the Royal Welsh

Te Kuiti 72 Queen Street

Show was one of the highlights of the “trip of a lifetime” for Balme.

For sale by Tender

For sale by Tender

“People need to put the Royal Welsh Show on their bucket list. It’s just unbelievable the atmosphere there and the number of people they get watching the shearing, just huge. There’s probably, I don’t know, 5000 people crammed in trying to watch the shearing” Balme said.

For sale by Tender

To be sold by Tender closing 1pm, Wednesday 2 September 2026 (will not be sold prior) at Bayleys Te Awamutu, 2 Alexandra Street Te Awamutu.

To be sold by Tender closing 1pm, Wednesday 2 September 2026 (will not be sold prior) at Bayleys Te Awamutu, 2 Alexandra Street Te Awamutu.

To be sold by Tender closing 1pm, Wednesday 2 September 2026 (will not be sold prior) at Bayleys Te Awamutu, 2 Alexandra Street Te Awamutu.

By order of the High Court of New Zealand, this property is being sold under the provisions of the Local Government (rating) Act 2002.

Reeling in the Welsh to draw the series proved a step to far for the New Zealanders, losing the fourth test by 0.9 points.

By order of the High Court of New Zealand, this property is being sold under the provisions of the Local Government (rating) Act 2002.

Please note: this property will be sold in as is condition. No vendor warranties. No viewings or open homes.

The Welsh are pencilled in for a return series in February and March, including a likely test match at annual New Zealand Shearing Championships in Te Kūiti.

By order of the High Court of New Zealand, this property is being sold under the provisions of the Local Government (rating) Act 2002. Please note: this property will be sold in as is condition. No vendor warranties. No viewings or open homes.

Please note: this property will be sold in as is condition. No vendor warranties. No viewings or open homes. bayleys.co.nz/5840004

bayleys.co.nz/5840004

bayleys.co.nz/5840004

Tender (will not be sold prior)

Closing 1pm, Wed 2 Sep 2026 2 Alexandra Street, Te Awamutu Antonia Jongmans 027 656 1506 antonia.jongmans@bayleys.co.nz

SUCCESS REALTY LIMITED, BAYLEYS,LICENSED REAA 2008

SUCCESS REALTY LIMITED, BAYLEYS,LICENSED REAA 2008

Property Of The Week

Location, Presentation, Character & Convenience

This charming weatherboard home offers the perfect combination of location, character, and convenience, so add it to your watchlist-and arrange a viewing today, as we don’t expect this property to remain on the market for long.

Let’s start with the heart of the home-the kitchen. Functional and well-positioned, with the generous dining area, creating the perfect space for family meals and entertaining. French doors open onto a sunny deck, making alfresco dining in the private rear yard effortless.

The inviting lounge is full of character, featuring built-in shelving, high-stud panelled ceilings, and the timeless charm synonymous with a 1930s bungalow. These character features continue throughout the home, adding warmth and personality. Offering flexibility to suit your

lifestyle, the home comprises two generous double bedrooms plus an office, or you can easily utilise the office as a third bedroom if required.

The location is hard to beat and perfectly positioned just around the corner from Otorohanga South Primary School, this home also enjoys an easy walk to the supermarket and town centre. The fenced rear yard provides plenty of space for children and pets to play in privacy, with a single garage completing the package.

Whether you’re stepping onto the property ladder, looking to downsize, or searching for a charming home on a flat, family-friendly section in a peaceful part of town, this property deserves your attention. Contact us today to arrange a private viewing, or we look forward to seeing you at one of our upcoming open homes.

ADDRESS 52 Orahiri Terrace, Ōtorohanga

LAND SIZE 712sqm (more or less)

HOUSE SIZE 100 sqm (more or less)

HOUSE 3 bedrooms, 1 living rooms, 1 bathrooms, 1 garage

PRICE Deadline Closes 26 August, 1pm (Unless Sold Prior)

WEBSITE monarchsouthwest.co.nz

WEB ID OH22868

VIEW Open Home: Sun 9 Aug, 12.45 - 1.15pm

Harty M 027 294 6215

kjharty@harcourts.co.nz

Lennox M 027 559 4468

52 Orahiri Terrace

17A Orahiri Terrace

Ōtorohanga 11 Karaka Road

Kūiti 22 Ailsa Street

sections (sizes are approximate)

3 Rothery Place, Otorohanga, 685sqm, power,

Otorohanga, 686sqm,

9 Sunset Close, Otorohanga, 750sqm in Westridge

1, 627 Waitomo Valley Road, Otorohanga, 8105sqm

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)

10 Te Kumi Street, Te Kuiti, 843sqm, industrial zoned, highway frontage. Ph Sam or Buzz Deadline Sale

2 Jennings Street, Te Kuiti, 979sqm, cenral location. Ph Sam or Buzz By Negotiation

167B Tate Road, Te Kuiti, 9697sqm, formed metal driveway, minimal covenants. Ph Sam or Buzz $325,000

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

2 Kuku Street, Piopio, 1097sqm, local and rural views, backs onto farmland, no covenants. Ph Lorraine $79,000 214 Okapu Place, Aotea Harbour, 700sqm, borders farmland, ocean views, covenants apply. Julie $290,000

0 Raglan Road, Kawhia, 2648sqm lifestyle section, no covenants, completely off grid. Ph Julie $290,000

Te Nehenehenui

2026 Election of Trustees

Notice of Withdrawal of Candidate

Keith Ikin has recently confirmed his withdrawal as a candidate for the 2026 Ngā Kura Rere election.

As the voter packs for this election have been printed and released for distribution, the timing of this withdrawal does not allow a reprint opportunity within required timelines. Te Nehenehenui Trustee electors who choose to vote by postal ballot should therefore note this withdrawal and not include the withdrawn candidate in their voting selections.

Any votes cast by postal vote for Keith Ikin will not be counted in the Ngā Kura Rere election. Votes cast for remaining candidates will be valid and counted. The nominees who remain as candidates for election are listed on the Te Nehenehenui website: tenehenehenui.iwi.nz/elections

Piopio and districts Museum Trust

AGM

Thursday, August 13, 2026

at the Piopio Senior Citizens Rooms, at 7pm piopiodmt@gmail.com

Come along and support this great local Museum!

TE RONGOROA FOREST &

FARM TRUST

NOTICE OF ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

Notice is hereby given to the beneficial owners that the Annual General Meeting of Te Rongoroa Forest & Farm Trust will be held on Saturday, 5th September 2026.

Venue: Waimiha (Te Ihingārangi) Marae, Waimiha

The candidate withdrawal has been applied to the online voting site. Anthony Morton Returning Officer - Te Nehenehenui PO Box 3138, Christchurch 0800 666 028, vote@electionz.com

DECISION TO CLOSE ROADS

NZ SILVER FERN RALLY 2026

In accordance with the Tenth Schedule of the Local Government Act 1974, notice is hereby given that Ōtorohanga District Council, for the purpose of allowing the NZ Silver Fern Rally 2006, has made the decision to close the following roads to ordinary vehicular tra c for the period indicated hereunder: Ōtorohanga District – Saturday 28th November 2026

Aotearoa Road, at its intersection with Kahorekau Road and Wairehi Road between 8.30am and 1.00pm

Ranginui Road, 200m from its intersection with Waipapa Road, past McLean Road and 200m from its intersection with Scott Road SH30 between 9.20am and 1.50pm

Ngapeke Road / Tahia-Bush Road at the Waitomo DC Boundary between 12.10pm and 4.40pm. Tauraroa Valley Road, 600m from its intersection with Maihiihi Road, left into Hoddle Road. Hoddle Road at its intersection with Maihiihi Road between 1.05pm and 5.35pm

There will not be any detour in place. Access for emergency vehicles will be allowed in the event of an emergency.

Authorised public notification of the approved road closure before the event, as required by the Local Government Act 1974.

Pōwhiri: 10.30am

AGM starts: 11.45am

Registration: Opens at 11:00am and closes at 11:45am.

Agenda

Karakia / Mihi

1. Proxy Voting

2. Apologies

3. Previous Minutes

4. Chairperson’s Report 5. Forestry Report 6. Strategic Plan & Statement of Investment Objectives (S.I.P.O.) 7. Financial Report & Approval of Audited Accounts

8. Appointment of Auditor 9. Trustee Election Results

10. Māori Land Court Update

Karakia Whakamutunga / Kai o te rānui

For catering purposes, please RSVP by Monday, 24th August 2026

Contact Aotahi Ltd – Trust Administrators

Email: heartlands@aotahi.com | Phone: 07 214 1080 to receive a proxy form or AGM pack via email.

TRUSTEE ELECTION (1 vacancy)

Voting papers will be posted to all Shareholders (or delegated representative) who have a postal address on file. Contact the Administrators if you do not receive one by 10th August 2026.

• Votes will be accepted by post, scanned to email, or hand-delivered to the Administrators by 5pm, Friday 4th September 2026.

• Votes will also be accepted in person, at the AGM until 12pm, Saturday 5th September 2026. In-person does not apply to those who attend the AGM via Zoom.

• Proxy forms cannot be used for election purposes; they may only be used for resolutions.

Terms and Conditions – Good Local Media Ltd

Invoicing and Payments

Effective from April 1, 2026, a $5.00 plus GST administration fee will be added to all Good Local Media Ltd invoices. For advertisers on a regular schedule, invoices will be sent at the end of the month and payment is due by the 20th of the following month, otherwise payment is required by end of day Tuesday in advance of publishing. Accounts in arrears +60 days may be subject to a $95 + GST late payment fee per month. Advertiser is responsible for all debt collection fees

Rate Card

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 difference 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

Advertising Deadlines

We

Cambridge News, King Country News and Te Awamutu News: Advertising booking deadline is one week prior to publication day. 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 off 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.

Limitation of Liability

Good Local Media Limited (including its employees, officers, or agents) shall

Ador Shoes

Harvest Church Ōtorohanga

Sunday Service @ 10.30am 5 Tuhoro Street, Ōtorohanga

Ph 07 873 8890

DECISION TO CLOSE ROADS

HAMILTON CAR CLUB

ANNUAL RALLY SPRINT 2026

In accordance with the Tenth Schedule of the Local Government Act 1974, notice is hereby given that Ōtorohanga District Council, for the purpose of allowing the Hamilton Car Club Annual Rally Sprint 2026, has made the decision to close the following roads to ordinary vehicular tra c for the period indicated hereunder:

Ōtorohanga District – Sunday 6th September 2026

Hoddle Road – from intersection with Maihiihi Road to intersection with Tauraroa Valley Road, from 9.00 am to 5.00 pm.

Tauraroa Valley Road – from intersection with Hoddle Road to intersection with Maihiihi Road, from 9.00 am to 5.00 pm

There will not be any detour in place. Access for emergency vehicles will be allowed in the event of an emergency.

Authorised public notification of the approved road closure before the event, as required by the Local Government Act 1974.

Notice of Candidate Names

Nominations closed at 12 noon on Friday 31 July 2026 for Waitomo Energy Services Customer Trust. An election is being held for three positions on the Trust on Thursday 24 September 2026. Those nominated are:

CARR, Shane PRENDERGAST, Cathy CONNORS, Andy RALPH, Maria MASSEY, Leanne RONALDSON, Yvette MITCHELL, Shelley

As there are more candidates than there are vacancies to be filled, an election will be held between the listed candidates on Thursday 24 September 2026, under the First Past the Post electoral system by postal and online voting.

ISSUE OF VOTING DOCUMENTS

Voting documents will be posted to electors of Waitomo Energy Services Customer Trust from Monday 24 August 2026.

RETURN OF VOTING DOCUMENTS

Voting documents can be returned by post or online between Monday 24 August 2026 and 12 noon, Thursday 24 September 2026.

REPLACEMENT VOTES

Replacement votes will be available for those electors who request one because either they have not received their original voting pack in the mail by Monday 31 August 2026, or they have damaged or lost a voting document previously issued to them. Replacement votes can be requested by phoning the Returning Office on 0800 922 822 or emailing info@electionservices.co.nz.

OWNERS’ REVIEW POLL

A poll will take place concurrently with the 2026 election. This poll will determine whether Beneficiaries prefer shares to continue to be held by the Trust, transferred to Beneficiaries or transferred to Local Authorities. All enquiries please phone 0800 922 822

at Te Kūiti, 31 July 2026

Mob 027 493 0117 Email harvest.pc@xtra.co.nz ALL WELCOME.

Pastors Peter & Carole Coventry (An Assemblies of God Church)

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

Sunday morning service 10am

Alpha Dinners

6.30pm Fridays

Starting 7 August 2026

Free catered dinner followed by Alpha video and discussion

Please RSVP stbrides@xtra.co.nz or 021 654 029 Ph 07 873 7006

NORTHCOTT, Frederick

“Wayne” – Died very peacefully on Thursday, 30th July 2026, surrounded by family and friends, aged 77 years. Dearly loved husband of Rosemary. Dearly loved Dad of Rob, Tony and David, stepdad to Raymond, Abraham and Tamara and loved by all his grandchildren. A service for Wayne has been held.

BOWRING, Robyn Elwyn –

Aged 87 years passed away peacefully on Friday, July 31, 2026 at Beattie Home with her daughters by her side. Loved wife of the late Harry. Loving mother and mother-in-law of Shona and Kieran, Ross and Sharon and Joanne. Loved nan to Lee and Caleb, Kristin and Paul and Scott and Verena. Great nan to Macie, McKenna, Finn and Freya. A memorial service for Robyn will be held at The Fat Owl, 12 Ruru Street, Piopio on Saturday August 8 at 1pm. Special thanks to Hillview and Beattie Home for all the care mum has received over the last few years. All communications to Bowring Family c/- PO Box 241, Te Kuiti 3941. VJ Williams & Sons, Funeral Directors Association of NZ

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

Classifieds

Jobs, terrific bargains, useful services, legal notices and announcements – these are some of the great things you’ll find in your newspaper’s classified ad section.

Connect to your neighbours in a proven reliable way.

When buyers and sellers need to connect…

IMBER, David Maxwell – Peacefully at Te Kūiti Hospital on Tuesday, July 28, 2026 surrounded by his loving family. Treasured partner of Laurel for more than 40 wonderful years. Devoted father and fatherin-law of Briar and Chase, and Elyse. Cherished poppa of Charlie and Max, a special grandfather figure to Gregoire and Sophie and a much-loved uncle. Dave will be deeply missed by his family, friends and all who had the privilege of knowing him. In accordance with Dave’s wishes a private cremation has been held. Messages to the Imber family may be sent c/- PO Box 241, Te Kuiti. VJ Williams & Sons Funeral Directors.

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.

KNOW YOUR PROFESSIONAL

THE MOST EXPENSIVE DOCUMENT FARMERS DON’T READ

One of the most common mistakes I see farmers make is assuming that a “standard” rural lease will automatically re ect what they have agreed. Standard lease documents are a great starting point, but no two farming operations are the same, and a standard form will rarely capture every commercial arrangement.

Before signing, take the time to read

every clause and ask yourself: “Does this actually re ect what we agreed?” Issues such as fertiliser, water, maintenance, stocking, improvements, renewals and compliance obligations can all become expensive points of dispute if they are not clearly recorded.

If you are not comfortable reviewing the document yourself, engage a lawyer who

genuinely understands farming. Have the farming conversation rst – explain how you expect the arrangement to work in practice – and then let your lawyer tailor the lease accordingly.

A few hundred dollars spent getting a lease right at the start is almost always far cheaper than dealing with a dispute later.

DENTAL DISEASE IN YOUR PET

Up to 80% of dogs and 70% of cats have some form of dental disease by the age of 2. Just like in humans, plaque can form on your pet’s teeth. If this plaque is not dealt with it will turn into tartar which can lead to gingivitis or in ammation of the gums. Without treatment, gingivitis can then turn into a more severe periodontal disease, damaging the gums and potentially causing irreversible damage to the bone supporting

the teeth. Not only does this cause bad breath and a ect the oral comfort of your pet but if chronically infected teeth are left untreated it can also lead to infection spreading to other organs such as the liver, kidney and heart via the bloodstream. Dental disease starts to become more of an issue as our pets age, with clinical signs generally arising around the age of 5. But don’t panic, there are several options available

to help slow down the progression of dental disease. With specially formulated dental diets, enzymatic pastes & regular brushing, dental chews or treats and annual checks you can be pro-active. Dental disease is a real disease and poses real health risks to your pet. Give us a call and make an appointment to have your pet’s teeth and oral health assessed by our vet or nurse team.

WHY DELAYING TREATMENT FOR SMALL CAVITIES LEADS TO BIGGER PROBLEMS

Postponing treatment for an early cavity is a common mistake. While early enamel decay can sometimes stop progressing or improve with good oral hygiene, uoride, and dietary changes, advanced tooth decay does not heal on its own and typically continues to progress.

The outer enamel layer of the tooth provides a strong barrier against bacteria. Once decay penetrates this layer and reaches the

underlying dentin, it generally progresses more rapidly because dentin is softer, and allows bacteria to spread toward the inner part of the tooth, weakening the tooth over time.

A small cavity that could have been treated with a simple lling may eventually require more complex procedures, such as a root canal, crown, or even tooth extraction. Early enamel decay is often symptom-free.

By the time a tooth becomes sensitive to cold, sweets, or biting pressure, the decay has frequently progressed into dentin and may be approaching the pulp, where the tooth’s nerves and blood vessels are located. Early detection helps preserve healthy tooth structure and often allows for simpler treatment. If you suspect you have a cavity, see your dentist to help preserve your natural teeth and maintain a healthy smile.

TRAVEL IN THE AGE OF TECHNOLOGY

Technology is changing the way we travel. It’s no longer just about having a passport and airline ticket—many airlines and countries now require travellers to use digital tools before they even arrive at the airport.

Take Ryanair, for example. The airline now requires passengers to check in using its app and present a digital boarding pass. Printed

boarding passes are no longer accepted on most ights, making a smartphone essential for travel with the airline.

It’s not just airlines either. Countries such as Singapore, Thailand, Malaysia, Japan and Indonesia now require travellers to complete digital arrival cards or health declarations before they arrive. These forms are mandatory and separate from any visa

requirements. For some travellers this is second nature, but for others it can feel overwhelming. That’s where a travel agent can help. We keep up with these constantly changing requirements, guide you through the technology, and make sure everything is completed before you leave—helping your holiday get o to a smooth, stress-free start.

WHY ADVERTISE IN YOUR LOCAL NEWSPAPER

Print advertising cuts through digital fatigue by o ering tangible, undivided attention. Physical ads in local newspapers build higher brand trust, are free from ad blockers, and command deeper engagement. When combined with digital marketing, they can signi cantly increase overall response rates.

Key Advantages

• Higher Trust and Credibility: Audiences often view print media as more authentic. Placing ads in respected local newspapers or industry-speci c publications adds instant

legitimacy to your business.

• Zero Digital Distractions: Unlike web banners or emails that are easily skipped or sent to spam folders, physical ads cannot be blocked. Readers often view print media when they are singularly focused, leading to better information retention.

• Tangible Connection: Holding a physical item (like a newspaper) triggers a psychological and sensory response that creates a deeper, longer-lasting impression.

• Longer Shelf Life: A newspaper often sits

on a co ee table or in a waiting room for weeks or months, giving your advertisement repeated exposure over time.

• Targeted Reach: Specialist newspaper features in local community newspapers allow you to reach highly speci c, prequali ed, and engaged local audiences without wasting ad spend on irrelevant demographics.

For all advertising enquires contact Janine Davy 027 287 0005 | janine@goodlocal.nz