King Country News | July 9, 2026

A legend mourned

By Dan Tasker

Baven Brown scored one final try at Rugby Park last Thursday, as hundreds gathered in Te Kūiti to celebrate the life of one of the Waitete club’s most popular figures.

More than 400 people filled Waitete Rugby Football Club to remember Brown’s life, following the 51-year-old’s death on Tuesday last week.

Arriving at Rugby Park, where he scored so many tries over his 306 premier games since debuting for Waitete in 1995, his family took him on one last trip down the field before heading to the club rooms.

Brown, also fondly known as B, B Brown and Glamour, was remembered as the life of the party, characterised by his trademark ‘bling’ jewellery and signature V haircut, ankle socks and a boombox always nearby.

His unique style could be seen in his rugby through a flamboyant skill-set influenced by his touch background, leading to the behind-the-back and no-look passes he became famous for.

The fullback also played 79 games for the King Country Rams between 1999 and 2007 and scored 13 first-class tries, and was also well-known for playing touch, basketball, social soccer, twilight netball and squash.

King Country Rugby Union (KCRU) chairman Jason Church, who played rugby with Brown and worked alongside him at Universal Beef Packers for many years, spoke of his popularity and the fun he brought to the team.

“Everybody would wait to see what van B. Brown would get into. You’d have about 15 guys squashed into this van with his big boombox and the poor sober driver in the other van driving home with all the gear bags. It was good fun and we never got in much trouble,” Church said.

“Wolfy made a comment about B’s gap

in his front teeth and B turned around and went bang and knocked his tooth out –

‘Who’s got the gap now bro?’. There was a bit of laughing and then you’d end up in town and the tooth’s pushed back in. An hour or two later, everyone’s hugging it out

and best mates again on Tuesday,” he said.

But aside from the music and laughs, Brown became known for his loyalty and commitment to the people he cared for, particularly his family and rugby club.

“Today we’ve lost a good mate, but you

his family have lost so much more. Thank you for sharing your husband, Dad and koko with us, we’re all better for knowing him,” Church said.

KCRU president Paul Mitchell, who played with and coached Brown, said the character he showed was something young people should aspire to.

“We used to go out to the Maōri blocks out at Benneydale and do the crutching, and that fulla was always first there. He wasn’t first there by five minutes, he was probably near half an hour earlier. He was never at the front, but he was always out the back doing the hard yards and directing traffic and having a lot of fun with his music,” Mitchell said.

“If today’s generation ever wanted to look at something, they should look at this fulla and what he did and his commitment and his loyalty. He had great skills – why did he have great skills? Because he was fit. Why was he fit ? He did extra work, not only at training, but he did it behind the scenes and the other sports he played too,” he said.

Brown’s first Waitete premier coach John Lang said “there was nothing better than watching him running down the sidelines scoring tries”, and the news of his passing had shocked a lot of people.

“Baven’s going to heaven and there’s a guy up there called Pinetree (Sir Colin Meads) and he’s waiting at the gates with a jersey for him. Pinetree will say, ‘You’re in my team boy’,” Lang said.

Brown was buried beside his Dad Rob at the Mirumiru urupa at Marokopa last Friday.

He is survived by his devoted wife Milly, his children Kevin, Keisha and Baven Jnr and their partners Paygan, Zede and Staci, and his grandchildren Labryon, KhaleesiLeigh, Amaiiah-Lee, Eva, Gianna, SatiivahHayze and Harley-Rose.

It all adds up for Rachael

By Dan Tasker

Accountant Rachael Coleman has been awarded a scholarship recognising her academic excellence and passion for investing.

areas

• Effective coverage – up to 10 ha per hour

• Reduced chemical use & minimal drift

The third-year University of Waikato Bachelor of Business student received the Craigs Investment Partners Women in Business Scholarship in June. The programme is designed to encourage more women into careers in business and financial services.

The $7500 scholarship covers about a year’s tuition fees and includes 12 months of mentoring from Craigs Investment Partners

leaders, including Central North Island general manager Yvonne Davie, who will share wisdom from her career in wealth management and financial services.

Coleman, who is completing her degree while working as an accountant at Ōtorohanga accountancy firm Bailey Ingham, said the scholarship complemented her accounting studies with a wider focus on finance and investment.

“It gives me a broader business knowledge on investing, which helps me in a personal way, but also in a professional way,” Coleman said.

academic performance, strong understanding of financial markets and macroeconomic trends, and her commitment to encouraging more women into business and finance careers.

For now, Coleman plans to continue building her accounting career, while making the most of the opportunities the scholarship provides.

Arapuni story tops stats

St John Health Shuttle

Providing transport to medical and health related appointments. Call our local office to find out more: 0800 846 9992 or email wakaora@stjohn.org.nz

Hato Hone St John’s purpose:

“Getting to meet people – women in the industry – is a huge opportunity. What you’re learning at university is one thing, but it can be quite different in practice, so it’s good to learn from people who are actually doing it and have lots of experience,” she said.

The 21-year-old former Ōtorohanga College student said her interest in investing began while she was still at high school, where she became curious about the money system.

“I started learning about it and tried to invest, even little bits of birthday money. I didn’t have a job back then, but I’ve always been quite good at saving and putting things off a little bit for the future,” Coleman said.

“It’s mostly been my own interest, but I have family members that have invested and I’ve read books. I’ve always been interested in learning how money works. You make some mistakes along the way, but it’s all learning.”

The scholarship selection panel said Coleman stood out for her outstanding

On the beat with Constable Chris Aspin

Cordons and etiquette

King Country police have continued to manage a steady flow of incidents this past week, with staff responding to matters ranging from critical events to ongoing investigations.

Early in the week, police went to an address in Te Kūiti following a sudden death. Due to reports a firearm had been discharged, officers established a cordon while specialist units approached and cleared the property.

A firearm was recovered at the scene, and no one else is being sought in relation to the incident. Our condolences go out to the friends and family of the man who passed away.

Staff are often required to respond to several critical situations across the district. In these moments, cordons are often

Closure of the Arapuni dam road was the best-read story on the King Country News website and topped the Good Local Media group of websites last month. It accounted for 44 per cent of all visits to kingcountrynews.co.nz suggesting our readers are regular users of the road across to the South Waikato and beyond.

Te Kūiti Aunties Laundromat owners Donna Missen and Dave Crone and the 100,000 Fieldays smart bands they washed came in second while news a King Country council came a step closer following comments from Local Government minister Simon Watts was third.

Rounding out the top five was a feature story on Arapuni Dam’s hidden past and Ōtorohanga’s plan to take on Harrods again. Website visits were up 111 per cent on the previous month and the best since its relaunch last year.

The website’s home page and e-Editions continue to rank as the most visited with Thursday the busiest day.

essential to protect the public and preserve the integrity of active scenes.

While most people understand the importance of keeping clear, it is disappointing when a small number choose to cross into restricted areas, sometimes even bringing children with them out of curiosity. These scenes can shift rapidly, and officers need to keep their focus on the individuals or locations where risk is present. Respecting cordons helps police maintain safety and manage incidents effectively.

Police are investigating a recent spate of burglaries with some aggravating factors affecting businesses in both Te Kūiti and Ōtorohanga. Officers encourage everyone to remain vigilant, report suspicious behaviour promptly.

During routine patrols, a 32 year old male

was summoned to court after being found driving while suspended.

In a separate matter over the weekend, police responded to an industrial burglary in Te Kūiti during daylight hours. Officers located and arrested a 54 year old female who was already on bail for other active charges. She was transported to Hamilton custody and now faces two additional burglary charges. Police are opposing bail.

With colder weather settling in, police remind motorists to take extra care on shaded stretches of road where icy patches can form unexpectedly. Staying alert and adjusting speed to conditions can prevent serious accidents.

As always, thank you for your ongoing support. Look out for one another.

Biz brekkie

Legendary Te Kūiti is reviving its members-only business breakfast, starting at he Wool Press cafe next Thursday.

Textile conservator Dr Rangi Te Kanawa will be the guest speaker and will focus on celebrating the breadth of knowledge and talent in Te Kūiti.

Funding round

Applications for the Sport New Zealand’s Rural Travel Fund for the Ōtorohanga district have opened. The fund helps cover the cost of petrol and van hires to help youth from rural communities participate in sport, games and physical activities that contribute to their physical and mental health.

On the road

The Hamilton Car Club’s annual rally sprint is set to return to the Ōtorohanga district in September.

Ōtorohanga District Council has given public notice of its intention to close Hoddle Road and Tauraroa Valley Road on September 6 from 9am to allow the rally sprint to take place.

Driving safety

Youth service provider

Number Twelve is running a subsidised defensive driving course in Ōtorohanga later this month, offering young drivers the chance to improve their driving skills. The course, which normally costs $250, is being offered for $20. Driver must have obtained their restricted licence to be eligible.

On the trail

Planning is underway for a repeat of this year’s Waipā Creative Trail. Co-organiser, ceramic artist Alex Wilkinson told The News the call for a repeat was coming from participants and visitors. She said a conservative estimate of visitor numbers this year was around 700.

Club award

Incoming president Bill Reymer was presented with the Harcourt Rawlings Memorial award for outstanding contribution at the Ōtorohanga Vintage Machinery Club prizegiving last Friday.

Confusion at Paewira

By Roy Pilott

The company behind plans to build a waste to energy plant in Waipā is on a New Zealand Gazette list to be removed from the Companies Register.

It says Global Contracting Solutions will cease to exist as a legal entity next Wednesday if no objections are received. Then, it would not be permitted to trade, enter into contacts or hold asserts.

But a spokesperson for the company says that’s not the case – and the announcement, listed online by the New Zealand Gazette was a Companies Office

broadcast to many New Zealand companies related to the timing of submitting annual returns.

“GCS therefore intends to continue with progressing with Paewira,” project director Adam Fletcher said.

The plant would take rubbish from all over the central North Island to burn.

The News has sought a response from the New Zealand Gazette, which is the Government newspaper and journal of constitutional record.

Global Contracting Solution’s bid to construct a plant in Te Awamutu’s Racecourse Road stalled

last August when the Environmental Protection Authority revealed costs had not been paid.

This week EPA General Manager of Climate, Land and Oceans Garth Bloomfield told The News “we are aware of the Gazette notice and are currently considering our options”.

GCS began planning for a waste to energy plant eight years ago, found a site in Te Awamutu then unveiled its Paewira project.

Te Awamutu residents protested, and a lobby group - Don’t Burn Waipā – argued against both the site and the science of the plan.

The lobby group, aligned with the Zero Waste Network, advanced data to underscore their concerns about the impact the plant would have.

On the other side, Global Contracting Solution’s Craig Tuhoro spoke passionately when painting a completely different picture, pointing to similar and highly successful operations in Europe.

When the resource consent applications went to the Waipā district and Waikato regional councils, they were

called in to an independent board of inquiry by environment minister Penny Simmonds.

The application attracted more than 2000 submissions, and a board of inquiry, chaired by Environment Court Judge Bryan Dwyer, sat for three weeks in Hamilton in June and July last year.

But when it appeared to be on the cusp of announcing a decision in mid-August, the authority announced the process had stalled.

Adam Fletcher said at the time the doubling of resource consent application costs had led to the suspension of the resource consent application.

It is also understood processing costs of more than $100,000 were owed to the district and regional councils.

Garth Bloomfield told The News the board of inquiry was separate from the EPA and had not made a final decision on the application when the suspension decision was made and “this remains the case”.

In January The News reported Environmental

Protection Authority chief executive Allan Freeth had told Waipā District Council chief executive Steph O’Sullivan the company was attempting to raise capital to pay costs.

Global Contracting Solution posted an online video with Tuhoro saying he was struggling to understand why it was a political issue and “why we have so much activism around it”.

Taranaki King Country MP Barbara Kuriger told The News the process had been a frustrating one.

The community basically has had to sit and wait until it got to this point, stifling growth and causing anxiety,” she said.

“I’m not against waste to energy but the site proposed was not a good option in this case.”

Waipā Mayor Mike Pettit told The News the company still had until July 15 to object to removal, “so it’s too early to say what this means for the resource consent application, but we’ll be following this closely”.

“Waipā District Council’s position on the plant hasn’t changed. We remain strongly opposed to it being built on Racecourse Road in Te Awamutu, and we’ll keep advocating for the community regardless of what happens with this process.”

Cats, cats and more cats

By Roy Pilott

Not that your nostrils would tell you, but in the Tamahere Community Centre there are dozens and dozens of cats and almost all of them are dozing in cages or performing on judges’ tables while people jostle for position to see them.

Welcome to the 75th Hamilton Cat Club Show, which attracted more than 1500 visitors on Sunday.

It was another day at the office for cat club president Megan King who reported the event involved 11 judges – 10 of them from overseas.

“Overall, the day was a huge success. We had 174 exhibits

with exhibitors coming from as far south as Christchurch, and from Dargaville in the north,” she reported.

To the uninitiated, though, it was a step into the unknown.

Te Awamutu judge Sue Ford was happy to explain some of it. And for the record she noted that while a blind person might not have known there were cats in the room at this time of the morning, it’s not beyond the realms of possibility he or she would at the end of the day.

Ford – a Pirongia resident for three decades after a move from Hamilton where her last full time work was in Fraser High’s teen parenting unit – is a relief teacher these days at Te Awamutu College.

Husband Rob is a maths teacher. She is also in demand as a judge; it’s a role that had taken her around the world. She has bred Burmese cats for 40 years, and judged for 20.

Looking at the rows of cages with content cats and kittens relaxing, she points out it takes some training.

“Cats do need training – shows can be stressful. Most start young,” she says.

So they arrive and go to sleep –but many of them clearly enjoy the experience and when it comes to judging some will even dance on the table.

And, Sue points out, the placement of cages must also be considered. Simple rule: don’t

put one stud cat next to another. A bite from an agitated cat – she’s only had one of note – is not pleasant and can be expensive.

Rachel Ladd checks out the photo of her with Mr Bigglesworth and spots the flash has turned his eyes the wrong colour. A retake sans flash and Mr Bigglesworth is restored to young blue eyes.

Rachel, from Matangi, explains Mr B is a Balinese, a long haired Siamese variant. It’s been known to see Siamese getting a bad rap (think old Disney cartoons), but Rachel insists they are extremely smoochy.

She explains that there is a bit of synergy between breeding and her job as a midwife.

Details in the photos are very important when it comes to cats and breeders.

“Did you spot the issue with Bob?” Sheree Russell asks me after posing with Emerald Double Grand Premier Bobcat. Bob is listed as a long-haired companion (pedigree with a fault) cat. At the

slightest prompting at the suggestion there is a tale to be told it turns out there is.

“His tail should be a long longer,” she explains.

But what cat lover could not be taken by Bob?

And the major winners were:

Supreme Longhair PedigreeMagicbox Mimi Cola, a black exotic kitten. Owners, Jan and Ian Gray, Te Awamutu.

Supreme Shorthair Pedigree and Supreme Overall - Kirov Kazual Sinner, a Blue Russian kitten. Owner, Jo Miller, Darfield.

Supreme Domestic - Coco Chanel Divalicious, a brown Tortie tabby and white. Owners, Michelle and Megan Harland, Tauranga.

Supreme Companion – EmDGPr Bob Cat, a Seal bicolour. Owners, S Russell and K McOmish, Ōtorohanga.

Public choice - GCh Coastalcatz Legend of Koa, a black and brown mackerel Tabby Toyger. Owner, Sara Nelson, Katikati.

Farewelling King Country Energy: A Legacy Beyond Electricity

For many people, electricity is something we rarely think about until the lights go out. Yet behind every flick of a switch lies a story of people, places and communities working together to harness the power of the region's rivers and waterways.

That story took on a new chapter in 1992, when electricity industry reforms brought together the King Country Electric Power Board and the generation assets of the Taumarunui Borough Council to create King Country Energy (KCE) – a company owned by the community, for the community.

Over the next 34 years, KCE evolved alongside New Zealand's changing electricity industry. It operated generation assets, power lines and a retail electricity business, complete with a local call centre in Taumarunui, before adapting to successive rounds of industry reform to become a renewable electricity generator.

KCE’s shareholding was predominantly the local community with the King Country Trust holding a significant stake in the company over the years, supporting its growth.

"KCE never stood still," says General Manager Chris Fincham. "Every major change in the electricity sector challenged us to evolve, but one thing never changed; our commitment to the communities we served."

As the business evolved, so too did its contribution to the region. KCE supported local initiatives such as Books in Homes, Taumarunui Community Van, KiwiCan, Sports Awards, Foodbank, Trees of Light and the Heartland Fund, while continuing to invest in renewable generation and the long-term care of its hydro schemes.The company also recognised that it was only ever a custodian of the generation assets entrusted to it. Working alongside iwi, community groups, environmental organisations and local partners, KCE sought to protect the rivers and waterways that underpin its hydro schemes, understanding that these assets would one day be passed on to future generations.

"We've always believed our role extended beyond generating electricity," says Fincham. Over time, changes in regulation, competition and shareholding reshaped the business. Through a series of ownership changes, KCE ultimately became part of Contact Energy, bringing to a close its chapter as an independent company.

While the KCE name may disappear, its legacy will remain in the renewable electricity generated by its hydro stations, the communities it supported, the partnerships it built, and the people who helped shape its story.

“

Our communities supported us for 34 years, and that support gave us the opportunity to invest back into local initiatives, build lasting relationships and care for the environment around our hydro schemes. That's something we're incredibly proud of.

"The business may be changing, but the contribution made by our staff, customers, shareholders, iwi, community organisations and partners over the past 34 years will always be part of KCE's legacy," says Fincham.

“There are so many people in our community that have worked for KCE over the years, and everyone has made a valuable contribution in their own way. You should all be proud of what was achieved at that time.”

For everyone who has supported King Country Energy over the past 34 years, thank you.

It has been our privilege to serve this community.

CELEBRATING THE MĀORI NEW YEAR

Matariki is the time to plan planting + fishing using the Māori calendar (Maramataka)

1. Whiro The moon enters a new phase. An unfavourable day for planting food and for fishing. A good night for taking eel.

2. Tirea A reasonably good night for crayfishing, eeling, and planting food. A good day for collecting shellfish.

3. Hoata A very good day for eeling, crayfishing, planting kumara, and sowing seed crops.

4. Ōue A good day for establishing tuber beds, planting food, and fishing.

5. Ōkoro Another good day for planting food. Fish are restless.

6. Tamatea-kai-ariki A day for planting food. West winds prevail that only rain will quell.

7. Tamatea-ā-ngana Eels are voracious feeders this night. A good day for planting food and fishing, but beware fog and foaming sea.

8. Tamatea-ā ī ō Eel, fish, and kumara are abundant but small. A productive day for collecting shellfish. Fishermen, beware!

9. Tamatea-whakapau A favourable day for planting food from morning to midday. Not very good for fishing.

10. Ariro A disagreeable day, one for marking time.

11. Huna Do not plant food. Not a good day for fishing. Eel and crayfish are wary.

12. Māwharu A most favourable day for planting food. Kumara are large, but rot quickly. A good day for fishing; a good night for trapping crayfish and eel.

13. Ōhua A very good day for planting food.

14. Atua whakahaehae Not a good day for planting food or for fishing.

15. Ōturu A good day for bobbing eel. A good day for fishing and for planting food from midday to sundown.

16. Rākaunui A very good day. Crops are bountiful. A good day for fishing, but not eeling.

17. Rākaumatohi A very good day for fishing, but not eeling. Seed plants grow vigorously.

18. Takirau The moon is hazy. Food is bountiful, but small in size.

19. Ōike Not a good day for fishing or for planting food.

20. Korekore te whiwhia An unproductive night on the shore; winds sweep the seas.

21. Korekore te rawea Not a fruitful night. Food is scarce, but await the turn of the tide.

22. Korekore piri ki Tangaroa A good day from midday to sundown. A productive period for taking eel, trapped or otherwise. Most foods are plentiful.

23. Tangaroa-ā-mua A good day for planting food, for fishing and eeling.

24. Tangaroa-ā-roto Productive days for fishing and for planting food.

25. Tangaroa-whakapau A good day for fishing and the cultivation of seed beds.

26. Tangaroa-ā-kiokio A very good day for taking eel, for fishing, and for setting crayfish and eel baskets.

27. Ōtāne A good day for fishing, eeling, and crayfishing. A reasonably good day for planting food.

28. Ōrongonui A very productive day for planting food, fishing and eeling.

29. Mauri Not a productive day. Food is scarce. Fish are restless and turn tail.

30. Mutuwhenua Unproductive day and night. The moon has diminished and the world is now in total darkness.

More election hopefuls talk

By Dan Tasker

New Zealand First and ACT have named their candidates to contest the Taranaki-King Country seat at the general election on November 7.

Bridalwear retailer Lee Smith becomes the NZ First candidate to stand in the Taranaki-King Country electorate since Peter Haines in 1999, while clinical pharmacist Ivana Jovicic joins the ACT Party ranks for the 2026 campaign.

The spawling seat which seat extends north the skirt Ngāruawāhia and south almost to Stratford is a National strong hold. Barbara Kuriger has held it since 2014.

National and Labour candidates were confirmed in April – Kuriger will seek another term, Labour will put Tauwhare ecologist David Pattimore in her way.

Smith, 52, is no stranger to politics, having stood for the New Conservatives in 2020 and had intended to run for Democracy NZ in 2023, but inhouse issues led her and four other candidates to pull pin.

Her interest in the political realm stemmed from her view the Labour-Greens government that came to power in 2017 was steering decisions away from democracy.

“I was just really concerned seeing a lot of the democratic processes being eroded quite quickly and just rushed decision-making,” Smith said.

The mother of six is involved with rural advocacy group Groundswell while the Labour-led coalition was in power.

“I put my hand up without even knowing what I was in for. My phone number went public with Groundswell, and it just never stopped ringing. People were so motivated to get on board and to help do anything they could, because

a lot of people were feeling the pain of the Government.

“A lot of them felt like they couldn’t actually speak out against it, because I think (Prime Minister Jacinda) Ardern did a really good job of making people feel like they were unkind if they spoke out,” she said.

Smith started a skincare business in Ōtorohanga in 2005 after moving from Taranaki where she had been share-milking. She believes her experience in the local farming and business sector has her well-placed to advocate for local people under the NZ First banner.

Jovicic, 42, was born in Croatia and mostly lived in Serbia before her family moved to Auckland in late1996, seeking a better life following the Yugoslav wars of the 1990s. She moved to Dunedin in 2000 to study pharmacy at the University of Otago, beginning an extensive medical career as a clinical pharmacist at Waikato Hospital for almost 20 years.

Jovicic recently attended ACT’s annual party rally, where she met leader David Seymour and minister Andrew Hoggard, and the party’s candidates and campaign team.

The Jiu Jitsu blue belt and mother of two is hoping to make a difference for the Taranaki-King Country community as her election campaign planning ramps up.

“We didn’t have an ACT candidate for the area previously, so I thought maybe I can be the voice for change for people in our area,” Jovicic said.

“I am a pretty private person, so for me, it really is the passion of making our communities better – that’s really it,” she said.

Much of Jovicic’s motivation for political change comes from her early life in

Yugoslavia, seeing how socialism and racial division can destroy societies.

“Coming from a country where I’ve seen people that used to live together all of a sudden argue and divide, I really want to see a NZ that’s united and doesn’t discriminate against each other,” Jovicic said.

“We did have a lot of benefits of the social structure initially, but then it also was slowly crumbling apart and suddenly you had an education system that wasn’t really delivering, you had a healthcare system that was free, but you couldn’t get any appointments, and the quality wasn’t there,” she said.

Cutting red tape and advocating for better health, education and family outcomes were high on Jovicic’s list, as she prepared to hit the campaign trail in the coming months.

A trio getting their lines right

Three home grown talents have started a journey to become line mechanics.

Mary-Frances Maaka, Lachlan Lyford and Kain Tapara join a long-running trainee programme run by The Lines Company that helps build skills for the company and the wider electricity distribution sector.

“We have some specialised roles at TLC and sometimes we need to recruit from outside the area – that is the reality,” chief executive Mike Fox said. “But where we can, we want to grow our own local people who know the area, understand our communities and have strong local connections.

“Our trainee programme has been running for many years and remains one of the most important ways we build capability and capacity for the future. The sector needs more skilled people, and this programme helps develop the next generation of line mechanics right here in our own communities.”

Kain is from Ōtorohanga and has a

background in building and residential home renovations.

“It is a good career path. I like the thought of helping people, being part of the community and fixing things when they break – keeping the lights on,” he said.

Lachlan is from Piopio and worked at Rorisons before applying for the role.

“I was looking for a lifetime career not just a job. I am looking forward to meeting new people, working with new people, learning a new job and getting to grips with a new career.”

Both Kain and Lachlan had showed previous interest in similar roles advertised.

Mary-Frances is also from Ōtorohanga and before joining TLC worked at the Waitomo Glowworm Caves, building her public speaking skills through taking tours.

Her pathway into the industry began after a career conversation with a teacher, which led to her attending Girls with Hi-Vis, a hands-on careers event sponsored by TLC in

Te Kūiti last year.

“It was eye-opening to see that women are already thriving in this industry,” she said.

“Anyone can do this – girl, boy, small, tall, it doesn’t matter. I would say to other young women, go for it. There is no harm in trying, and if you are not successful the first time, you can always reapply.”

Fox said Mary-Frances’ story shows the importance of events like Girls with Hi-Vis.

“Being a line mechanic is a great job, but it is also a challenging one. We need people who are willing to learn, work hard, be part of a team and take pride in serving their community.”

Ōtewā champions

“I don’t think I can describe it – it’s just too good,” said Laura Connoly. Isaac Wilson said all the hard work was stressful at times, but it paid off.

The team, who won the regional final in Te Teko in March, came out on top against primary school teams from across the country in a competition testing practical skills, teamwork and agricultural knowledge.

A year 10 duo from Putāruru College and Rotorua’s John Paul College were crowned the 2026 FMG Junior Young Farmer of the Year .

The Young Farmer of the Year contest is in its 58th year. The senior title went to OtagoSouthland farmer Tom Slee.

Shop Local, Win Big!

Win a $4000 winter escape!

HE WHAKAWHITIWHITINGA WHAKAARO

Happy New Year

By Tom Roa, Tikanga Advisor, Waikato University

Thanks to his scholarship and mastery of both western science and mātauranga Māori, Professor Rangi Mātāmua led a renaissance in Te Ao Māori and a new awareness in the Western world of the star cluster that it knows as the Pleiades.

Our Waikato-Maniapoto-Tainui ancestors recognised that there are hundreds of stars visible to the naked eye in the cluster and focussed on seven – Matariki, Waitī, Waitā, Ururangi, Waipunārangi, Tupuānuku and Tupuārangi.

Matanuku’s Tuhoe ancestors spoke and wrote of another two, Pohutukawa and Hiwaiterangi,

According to ancestral narratives the brightest star in the centre of the cluster, Matariki, married Rehua (Antares) and is the mother of the other six (eight) stars of the cluster.

The first appearance before sunrise of Matariki in the north-eastern sky, in the Tangaroa phase of the lunar month, marks the beginning of the Māori year – this year on July 10 - and is celebrated with our Matariki Māori New Year holiday thanks to the professor’s scholarly research and his publicising of that research far and wide.

Other iwi, primarily those on the West Coast of the North Island, mark their New Year with the rise of Puanga, (Rigel) who appears just before Matariki.

This is the fifth year of the holiday celebration.

Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei will host the national event at Takaparawhau in Auckland Tāmaki-makau-rau.

Karanga, karakia,and kōrero will start the ‘hautapu’ celebrations and subsequent festivities. Other iwi, hapū, whānau, will celebrate the Māori New Year in their own way over the next few days.

Professor Matamua’s introduction of the ‘hautapu’ concept piqued my curiosity.

Following a conversation with him I contacted various of my elders and peers of the Waikato-King Country and reflected with them on the ‘hautapu’ with a view to suggesting we might follow the professor’s example in reviving the practice.

Unsurprisingly most of my elders (and I!) knew little to nothing of the hautapu –merely that it was an ancient practice that they/we never witnessed.

At one wānanga the suggestion was that Matariki rose while tribal Whare Wānanga were in session in the wintertime.

So those ceremonies would have been conducted by tohunga, and not observed by the ‘ordinary’ people. Hence they were ‘tapu’.

Following that advice, I suggested we might introduce a Māori New Year celebration that would not be ‘tapu’, that we might call a ‘hau-tū’. ‘Hautū’ can be interpreted as ‘to lead’.

So this celebration without any accompanying heavy ‘tapu’ would lead out the New Year, acknowledging all that has passed with the old year, looking forward to a ‘happy new year’! Mānawatia a Matariki!

AGE OF REASON

Tax – it’s all too much

By Richard Steele

I don’t mind paying tax, but don’t tell my accountant that, as I always protest that I pay too much.

It’s an opinion she has no time for. She thinks white headed old coots have to pay their way in the world, and I always lose the argument. But then she is my daughter as well, so I was always bound to lose the argument, wasn’t I?

Then I see in the pre-election year posturing. The Greens and Labour are keen for me to not only pay more tax, but also a lot more. Like a lot of people, we worked fairly hard for what we have, and there are few regrets about that, I’m sorry my bones are a bit worn out, but you can’t turn back the clock and have regrets, so I won’t do that.

Like a lot of old workers though, I am not that happy for my tax dollars to be propping up inefficient government departments, were there is no accountability. Also, I’m not that excited about the thousands of beneficiaries between 17 and 60 who chose not to work.

I see how hard shearers work, and those shearers who choose to do well spend their money wisely. They succeed in a tough business, and pay 30 per cent of their hard earned dough to prop up others who can’t get out of bed in the morning. There are hard-working people in all industries in the same boat. They have skin in the game, do alright for themselves, but are penalised by paying too much tax in a system which doesn’t recognise their efforts.

Funnily enough, I’m not that opposed to a fair capital gains tax, but not for the same reasons. Naturally, I would exempt any such tax from the family home, bach, and maybe a second investment property. But I do wonder

about people with dozens of homes and for that matter, dozens of farms. When is enough enough? How many millions do you actually need to retire on?

I really believe that people in local and central government get too far removed from the reality of where the money actually comes from and how hard it is in the real world to get ahead and keep heads above the water.

Some people are too divorced from the realities of the business world to be objective about how much more the overburdened tax and ratepayer can come up with.

So then, my issue becomes, not so much about how much tax I have to pay , to keep myself out of prison, but how well is the tax I pay spent. I’m sure a lot of readers will have sympathy for that point of view, I don’t believe in whining about it either, but if all our politicians, spent a little less time spending our hard earned money, and a little more time on the accountability of how it is spent, we would all be a lot happier.

Letters to the Editor

• Letters should not exceed 200 words

• They should be opinion based on facts or current events

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

• No noms-de-plume

• Letters will be published with names

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

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

• The editor’s decision on publication is final.

SURVEY CLOSES 9 AUGUST 2026 Paper copies are available at Council office and both libraries engage.otodc.govt.nz

Social interaction

Social interaction is one of the most important - and sometimes overlookedelements of wellbeing in a retirement home. As people age, changes in mobility, health, loss of work roles, and the passing of peers can all reduce opportunities for meaningful connection. For many older adults, a retirement home becomes their primary social environment, so the quality and variety of interactions available there can significantly impact physical health, emotional wellbeing, cognitive function, and overall life satisfaction.

Yet it’s not as simple as it sounds. The Waikato – and this includes Waipā - has a plethora of retirement villages to choose from, so it pays to take the time to make sure you align your needs (including potential ones) with those that are on offer. Research shows that social engagement is linked to better mental health, lower rates of depression and anxiety, and even improved immune and cardiovascular function. Regular conversation, shared activities, and close friendships help maintain a sense of purpose and identity. Being part of a community supports resilience during life transitions and can reduce feelings of

loneliness and isolation - issues that are surprisingly common among older adults. In a retirement home setting, especially one with residents of varied backgrounds and interests, social interaction offers opportunities for learning, laughter, and mutual support.

When choosing a retirement home, it’s important to look beyond clinical care and accommodation to assess how well the environment supports social life.

Look for dining rooms, lounges, libraries, and gardens that are comfortable, welcoming, and designed for people to gather naturally. Spaces that are too clinical or sterile discourage lingering; warm, homely environments invite spontaneous conversations and shared experiences. Rely on how a place makes you feel when you walk into it, it’s usually a good gauge.

A good retirement home offers a variety of organised activities that cater to different interests and abilities. Examples include arts and crafts, music sessions, movie nights, book clubs, gentle exercise classes, discussion groups, cultural celebrations, gardening clubs and outings to local Waipā attractions. Variety matters: not everyone

WHEN YOU NEED A LAWYER

WE’RE HERE TO HELP YOU

Retirement Village Law

Residential, Commercial & Rural Property

Rural Law & Farm Succession

Employment Law

Dispute Resolution

Relationship Property

Wills, Trusts, Estates & Enduring Powers of Attorney

enjoys the same things, and options help people discover new interests. Gardens, patios, walking paths and courtyards provide safe, pleasant spaces for residents to meet, stroll, or simply sit together. Fresh air and nature are powerful mood boosters and give residents another setting for socialising beyond indoor common rooms.

Spaces that accommodate family and friends - such as guest lounges, cafés or private visiting rooms are important; they encourage regular visits and participation in social events. Being able to include whānau

and friends strengthens residents’ sense of connection to life outside the home. Retirement homes need to honour residents’ cultural backgrounds, languages and spiritual practices help people stay connected to their identity and each other. In Waipā, this might include Māori cultural activities, prayer or meditation spaces, or celebration of community events. Engaged, respectful staff who understand the importance of social wellbeing can help residents feel included, encourage participation, and gently connect quieter residents with others.

Maintain independence through exercise

As we get older, keeping our bodies flexible and active becomes increasingly important for maintaining independence in our home, reducing the risk of injury, and supporting overall wellbeing.

While aging naturally brings changes to muscles, joints, and balance, regular, gentle activity can make a significant difference to how people feel and move each day.

One of the simplest and most effective ways to stay flexible is by stretching.

Gentle daily stretches help maintain joint range of motion, ease stiffness, and improve circulation. Stretching does not need to be complicated - simple movements such as shoulder rolls, neck stretches, and calf stretches can be done at home, even while seated. The key is to move slowly, avoid bouncing, and stop if there is any pain.

Walking remains one of the best all-round activities for aging bodies. It is low impact, free, and can be adapted to suit different fitness levels.

Regular walking helps strengthen leg muscles, support heart health, and improve balance. Whether it is a short stroll around the block, a walk with friends, or a gentle beach or park walk, consistency matters more than speed or distance.

Strength training is another important part of healthy aging.

Maintaining muscle mass helps support joints, improves posture, and makes everyday tasks such as carrying groceries or getting out of a chair easier.

Light hand weights, resistance bands, or body-weight exercises can all be effective.

Exercises such as seated leg lifts, wall pushups, and gentle squats can be done safely

at home or in group classes designed for seniors.

Activities that focus on balance and coordination are especially valuable, as falls are a major concern for older adults. Tai chi and yoga are popular choices, offering slow, controlled movements that improve balance, flexibility, and breathing. Chair yoga is a great option for those with limited mobility, allowing people to gain the benefits without needing to get down onto the floor.

Water-based exercise is another excellent option for aging bodies.

Swimming or aqua-fitness classes reduce pressure on joints while still providing resistance for muscle strengthening. This makes water activities ideal for people with arthritis, joint pain, or recovering from injury.

Equally important is listening to the body. Rest days, proper warm-ups, and cool-downs help prevent injury. Staying hydrated and wearing supportive footwear also play a role in keeping movement safe and enjoyable.

Social connection is a big one here –these group classes, walking groups, or community exercise programmes provide both physical activity and a chance to stay connected with others. It supports not only physical health but also mental and emotional wellbeing.

By staying active in ways that suit individual abilities and interests, aging bodies can remain flexible, strong, and healthy.

Regular movement, no matter how gentle, helps people continue doing the things they enjoy and supports a better quality of life as they age.

A New Home for Disability and Aged Care

Te Whare Manaaki o Tamahere is now open in Tamahere, Hamilton, o ering a purpose-built home for young people living with disabilities as well as aged care residents.

For families seeking the right care for a loved one, this is an important step forward for our community. Te Whare Manaaki o ers a thoughtfully designed environment where both older people and younger people living with disabilities can feel supported and genuinely cared for. It also marks an important milestone as the sixth home of Sound Care Group.

This new chapter responds to a genuine need within the community, with growing demand for more dedicated disability support. Te Whare Manaaki has been developed to provide an inclusive space built around individual needs, with a commitment to care that families can trust, grounded in dignity and understanding.

Our team has been carefully selected for their skills and compassion, ensuring each resident receives the right level of care in a thoughtful and respectful way.

Set in a quiet and spacious environment, each room includes a private ensuite, a small pantry, and direct

We welcome you to experience our Culture of Care

outdoor access. Wide, open areas create a calm and welcoming atmosphere, while shared spaces and secure gardens provide places to relax and spend time with friends and whānau.

Founded by Owner and Director Carly Mangulabnan, a nurse by profession, Sound Care Group has grown from one home into a trusted and well-established network across New Zealand, including Taranaki, Dunedin, the Bay of Plenty, and Waikato.

Te Whare Manaaki is more than just a place to receive care; it is a place where people are supported to achieve a meaningful and fulfilling quality of life.

Visit us and see what makes our home special.

54ClearwayRise,Rukuhia, �������� manager.twmt@soundcare.co.nz ���������� soundcare.co.nz

Taupō’s derby final

By Dan Tasker

It will be an all-Taupō King Country club final on Saturday after Taupō Marist and Taupō Sports came out on top in their respective semi-finals.

Marist swept aside Waitete 38-5 at Owen Delany Park, and the Ron Bryers Trophy regular season winners made their third final on the trot in clinical fashion.

They will face cross-town rivals Taupō Sports in the Meads Shield final. Taupō did a demolition job on Taumarunui Districts 55-24 at the Taumarunui Domain to book their first final since winning the King Country title in 2023.

It was almost mission impossible for Waitete up against an unbeaten Marist, made even more difficult after a week saying farewell to legendary club man Baven Brown, who died on June 30.

The blue bellies fronted up to Taupō with a starter’s chance and determined to put on a performance worthy of their mate, but Marist was just too good.

Centre Josevata Malimoce got the home team in front with an early try, but Waitete struck back smartly through lock Sam Wilson to make it 7-5 to Marist late in the first

quarter.

But that’s as good as it got for the visitors, with Marist kicking on to score another five tries including another to Malimoce and a double to lock Reeve Satherley to book their spot in the final.

Districts started their semi-final with a hiss and a roar as a first-minute try to flanker Tautoko Mahu caught Taupō Sports on the hop.

The yellow-and-blacks had the better of the first quarter to lead 10-7, but from then on Taupō Sports turned the screws with constant pressure to run away with things in a onesided match.

It looked as though Taupō Sports would miss the playoffs earlier in the year, but with key personnel

coming into the side, the black-and-whites have been the big movers in the second round.

The team is essentially the replica of last year’s titlewinning Tongariro United side. After United folded in round one, most of those players transferred to Taupō Sports for the second round, including Rams players Carey Cornelius, Sisa Vosaki, Kane Tamou, Cam Robinson Kieron Rollinson and Viliame Nacama.

Across town at Cherry Grove, the Taumarunui Eels finished their season on a high with a tense 18-17 win the first division (fifth v sixth) final, mirroring last year’s extra-time first division final between the same sides when Piopio the victors.

127 Tate Road, Te Kūiti

An iconic lifestyle property offering scale, character, and elevated rural living unlike anything else on the market. Set across 1.6567ha (approx), this distinctive castle style residence unfolds over three levels and showcases exceptional craftsmanship throughout, with exposed timber features, striking trusses, and handcrafted doors creating warmth and timeless appeal. Designed for families and entertainers, the home offers five bedrooms, three bathrooms, multiple living spaces, and exceptional flexibility. At the heart of the home is a designer kitchen flowing effortlessly into two generous lounge areas with French doors opening to a louvred pergola and

swimming pool, all positioned to take in the sweeping farmland views.

The master suite is a private retreat featuring two large double wardrobes, picturesque rural views, and an ensuite complete with spa bath. A mezzanine floor, currently utilised as a gym with adjoining office and new joinery, offers additional versatility while the bedroom located on the third floor with a patio, provides another space to relax and enjoy the outlook. A large rumpus room or third lounge adds further functionality, and for fitness enthusiasts, the treadmill, rowing machine, and weight equipment are included in the sale.

Outside continues to impress with a large two-bay implement shed, attached single carport, a converted spa room, generous gardens and expansive lawn areas. For Sale $890,000

View Sunday 12 July, 11.00 - 11.30am rwotorohanga.co.nz/OTO30417

Baggott 027 855 8472

Otorohanga,

power, water, fibre, wastewater at boundary. Ph Buzz/Sam $220,000 9 Sunset Close, Otorohanga, 750sqm in Westridge subdivision. Ph Lorraine $175,000 149A Old Te Kuiti Road, Lot 1, 5517sqm, easy covenants. Phone Lorraine Offers over $250,000 Lot 1, 627 Waitomo Valley Road, Otorohanga, 8105sqm rural lifestyle section. Phone Julie $298,000 Lots 90-108 Harpers Avenue, 486sqm to 962sqm, Westridge II subdivision. Phone John From $220,000ea 576C Mangawhero Road, Otorohanga, 1ha, fenced, sensible covenants. Ph Noldy Offers over $385,000 Te Kūiti sections (sizes are approximate)

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

Ōtorohanga 17A Orahiri Terrace

By now most deciduous trees have now dropped their leaves, covering lawns, garden beds, and gutters in shades of gold, copper, and brown. While it can feel like a never-ending clean-up at this time of year, autumn leaves are actually one of the best free resources your garden can get. Instead of sending them off to your rubbish dump, fallen leaves can be recycled back into the garden in several useful ways. One of the easiest methods is making leaf mould. Simply collect leaves into a wool sack, old feed sack, or even large black rubbish bags with a few holes poked in them. Leave them tucked away in a quiet corner for a few months and nature will slowly break them down into a dark, crumbly material full of goodness. Leaf mould is fantastic for improving soil structure, helping hold moisture through summer, and adding organic matter back into tired soils.

Leaves can also be used immediately as mulch around trees, shrubs, and garden beds. A layer spread over the soil helps protect plant roots through winter, suppress weeds, and reduce soil erosion during heavy rain. Over time worms and beneficial microbes will pull the leaves down into the soil, naturally feeding your garden as they decompose.

If your lawn is buried in leaves, try mowing over them rather than raking every last one away. Chopped-up leaves break down much faster and can be added straight into compost bins or used as mulch around the garden.

At this time of year, I honestly couldn’t live without my Stihl blower. When the leaves are falling constantly, it makes cleaning up pathways, lawns, and driveways so much faster and easier. A quick blow into piles

before mulching or collecting saves a huge amount of time, especially after windy days.

Not all leaves break down at the same speed. Softer deciduous leaves tend to rot down quickly, while thicker or waxy leaves can take longer. Mixing them together usually works best. Autumn is really nature’s reminder that nothing goes to waste. Those piles of fallen leaves may look messy now, but with a little patience they can become one of the most valuable things you add back into your garden.

Road

to attract strong interest, particularly from buyers seeking a premium home, land, and excellent shedding. Spanning approximately 295sqm, including the expansive portico, the home enjoys an elevated

views and an

shortage of

that captures stunning

backdrop. There is

and recreational equipment, with the recent addition of a large, fully enclosed three-bay shed complete with a concrete floor and power. Set on 16.1 hectares (approximately 40 acres) of mixedcontour land, the property offers an attractive blend of productive pasture and pockets of native bush. Divided into five paddocks, the land is of a scale that can still provide a useful supplementary income while remaining manageable for lifestyle owners. Combining a high-quality modern home, excellent infrastructure and stunning rural surroundings, this is a lifestyle property that offers the complete package.

EXPERTS

We’re Hiring

Join our team and support the mahi of our Trust.

We are seeking a reliable and well organised Administrator to support the GM, Board Executive, Database Officer and Hapū Trustees. This role is central to keeping our operations running smoothly by providing high quality administrative, secretarial, and support services.

Part time. 30 hours a week. Otorohanga based. Please send your CV and a short cover letter to CJ admin@ruht.co.nz

Applications closed Friday 24 July 2026.

Electrical Apprentice

Build a future that powers the future

Looking for more than just a job?

Become a qualified electrician with Kiwitown Electrical and build a career that’s in demand, well paid, and hands-on.

As technology continues to evolve with AI, electrification and renewable energy, skilled electricians are becoming more valuable than ever. Homes, businesses and farms will always need qualified people to install, maintain and troubleshoot the systems that keep New Zealand running.

Based in Ōtorohanga, Kiwitown Electrical works across domestic, commercial and rural projects throughout the Waikato. We also install and maintain solar power systems, giving you experience in one of the fastest-growing areas of the electrical industry.

What you’ll be doing

Working alongside experienced electricians, you’ll gain practical skills in: Residential wiring and renovations

• Commercial installations and maintenance

• Rural electrical work

• Solar power system installations

• Fault finding and repairs

• Lighting, switchboards and power installations

• Safe work practices and industry standards

What we offer

• Earn while you learn. You’ll be employed and paid while gaining real-world experience and completing your apprenticeship.

• Experience across domestic, commercial, rural and solar electrical work.

• Mentoring from experienced electricians invested in your success.

• A supportive team that values growth, quality and professionalism.

• High-quality tools, equipment and PPE.

• Long-term career opportunities in an industry that’s continuing to grow and evolve.

We’re looking for someone with a great attitude, a willingness to learn, and a strong work ethic. If you’re reliable, enjoy solving problems and want to build a career you can be proud of, we’d love to hear from you.

Apply now

Email your CV and a short introduction telling us why you’d like to become an electrician to admin@kiwitownelectrical.co.nz.

Questions? Call us on 07 873 7895. Applications will be reviewed as they are received, so don’t wait.

team.

We’re building a team of professionals who care about quality workmanship, customer experience, personal growth, accountability, and helping each other succeed.

For more than 15 years, we’ve built a reputation for delivering quality electrical solutions throughout the Waikato while creating a workplace where people enjoy coming to work and are recognised for the value they bring. As our business continues to grow, you’ll be supported by a dedicated Operations Manager whose role is to ensure jobs are planned properly, communication is clear, and the team has everything they need to succeed.

What’s In It For You?

• Top rates paid for the right person

• $35-$45 per hour depending on experience

• $2,000 sign-on bonus

• Company vehicle

• Latest iPhone and company phone plan

• Quality uniforms, boots and wet weather gear supplied

• Paid birthday leave

• Regular team BBQs, social events and staff activities

• Ongoing training and professional development

• Opportunities to grow within a growing business

• Variety of work across residential, commercial, rural and solar projects

No two weeks look the same. One day you could be wiring a new home, the next troubleshooting a commercial installation, upgrading a dairy shed, installing a solar system, or delivering a large commercial project.

What We’re Looking For

• Registered Electrician with a current New Zealand practising licence

• Proven ability to work independently and manage jobs from start to finish

• Excellent workmanship and attention to detail

• Strong communication skills with customers and teammates

• Full, clean driver’s licence

• Experience in residential, commercial and rural electrical work preferred

• Solar experience is a bonus, but not essential

Most importantly, we’re looking for someone who takes pride in their work, owns their responsibilities, backs their teammates, and genuinely wants to be part of a high-performing team.

We’re not looking for someone who wants to do the bare minimum. We’re looking for someone who cares about doing quality work, continuously improving, and delivering great outcomes for customers.

Why Kiwitown Electrical?

Because good people deserve:

• Respect

• Clear communication

• Strong leadership and support

• Opportunities to grow and develop

• Quality tools, equipment and systems

• Recognition for hard work

• A workplace where people enjoy turning up each day

If you’re looking for a company that values quality workmanship, backs its people, and offers genuine opportunities to grow, we’d love to hear from you.

Applications close 15 July 2026 – apply in writing to nicki@eight73consulting.co.nz

Pou Taiao / Environmental Officer –Waitomo/Otorohanga

30‑hour week • 2‑year fixed term

Strengthen kaitiakitanga and support tikanga‑led environmental protection across our rohe. RUHT is seeking a Pou Taiao to lead taiao projects, provide culturally grounded environmental advice, and work closely with hapū, iwi, DOC, councils, and our lease holder.

You’ll bring environmental expertise particularly in water and karst, scientific monitoring experience, strong tikanga/Mātauranga Māori grounding, and experience working with iwi/hapū.

Meaningful mahi. Hapū‑driven outcomes. Kaupapa‑based team.

Send CVs to manager@ruht.co.nz

Request the full Job Description at manager@ruht.co.nz

Applications close 31 July 2026

level of approximately 220%. Rate card: Rates are based 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 actually publish.

Invoicing and Payments: 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. Cancellation deadline is one week prior to publication. By confirming and placing advertising in Good Local Media Ltd publications you are agreeing to our terms and conditions of trade. Limitation of Liability: Good Local Media Limited (including its employees, contractors, officers, or agents) shall not be liable for a failure or breach arising from anything beyond their reasonable control e.g. an act of God, fire, earthquake, strike, explosion, or electrical supply failure, unavoidable accident or machine breakdown; and shall not be liable in tort, contract, or otherwise for loss of any kind (whether indirect loss, loss of profits, or consequential loss) to the Advertiser or any other person.

87th Annual General Meeting Inc

Date: Sunday 19 July 2026

The

Time: 11.00am

Venue: Otorohanga Club, 107 Maniapoto St,Otorohanga

All financial members are invited to attend. The AGM Agenda, Performance Report and other AGM documents are now available on our website. View online at: www.otoclub.co.nz Printed copies are also available from the Club Office, on request.

Please bring your current membership card or Clubs NZ App membership card for entry to the AGM.

Notice of Election and Poll

The Waitomo Energy Services Customer Trust (the Trust) is an energy trust and holds 100% of the shares in The Lines Company Limited (“TLC”) on behalf of its beneficiaries, who are customers of TLC within the district of the former Waitomo Electric Power Board. The Trust is governed by six trustees, three of whose terms expire on 1 October 2026. The Trust now invites nominations to fill those vacancies.

NOMINATIONS

Nominations for the trustee positions are invited from electors within the Waitomo Energy Services Customer Trust district. To be eligible, candidates must be:

• enrolled on the parliamentary roll; and

• a New Zealand citizen; and

• able to hold office subject to Section 96 of the Trusts Act 2019; and resident in the Trust District; and nominated and seconded by two beneficiaries who are also enrolled on the parliamentary electoral roll.

Nomination forms are available from Thursday 9 July 2026, and must be submitted on an official nomination paper available by:

• downloading from www.wesct.org.nz/elections; or

• emailing the returning office on info@electionservices.co.nz; or

• phoning the returning office 0800 922 822 in time to have it posted.

Completed nominations must be received by the returning officer or an electoral official no later than noon on Friday 31 July 2026

ELECTORAL ROLL

The electoral roll to be used for this election closes on Friday 31 July 2026.

Those eligible to vote at this election are all beneficiaries of the Trust being all customers of The Lines Company who reside within the Waitomo Energy Services Customer Trust district (all of the Waitomo District Council area, and parts of the Ōtorohanga District Council and Taupō District Council areas).

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.

29th Annual Farmers Party

We wish to thank the following sponsors that supported the Farmers Party held at the Otorohanga Club on the 24th of June.

ANZ Bank

Apperleys Timber and Landscape

Supplies

ASB Bank

Bank Of New Zealand

Bulk Lines

Corson Maize

Coull Builders Ltd

Easy Autos and Accessories Ltd

Edmonds Judd

Eight73 Consulting Ltd

Farm Source Otorohanga

Farmers Mutual Group

Gallie Miles

Giltrap Agrizone

Go Hard

Gray Construction

Hall & Wilson Ltd

Halter NZ

Harcourts - Blue Ribbon Realty

Heartland Bank

Independent Cattle Brokers

John Clark Contracting Ltd

John Millar

JWI Group

KC Drone Agri

KD Electrical Services Ltd

Land more Agri

Latitude Homes

McKenzie Drainage & Earthworks

Metal Build Ltd

Mudford Contracting Ltd

Need Him Contracting Ltd

OTL Group Ltd

Otorohanga Appliance Plus

Otorohanga Club Inc.

Otorohanga Collision & Repairs Ltd

Otorohanga Dental Surgery

Otorohanga District Council

Otorohanga Health & Fitness

Otorohanga ITM

Otorohanga Riding for the Disabled Otorohanga RSA

Otorohanga Toy Library

Otorohanga Tyre Service Ltd

Pat Prescott Ltd

Paul Wolvers Contracting Ltd

PaySauce

PGF Transport

Power Farming Te Awamutu

Pumpn Ltd

Qubik

R & L Drainage Ltd

Rabobank

Ray White - Rosetown Realty

Richard Smith and Associates

Roy Johnson Rural

Tetley-Jones Agriculture Ltd

Tim Young Earthworks

Todd Ormsby Builders Ltd

VE Veterinary Services Ltd

Vetora

Vinerra Livestock Group Limited

VJ Williams & Sons

Waikato Tractors Ltd

Waitomo Liquid Waster Disposal

WASS Equipment

Western Livestock Ltd

World Travellers King Country

Thank you for your Support

Notification of Mass and/or Speed Limits on Bridges

Attention is drawn to the applicable

1A or Part 3 of Schedule 1B of the Land Transport (Offences and Penalties)

1999, which apply to infringements of these limits.

Ben Smit, Chief Executive Waitomo District Council

VEHICLE FOR SALE. 2003

Mazda Bounty Ute, Cab plus, 269,000kms, very tidy, manual diesel, WOF, Rego and Mileage up to date.

$12,000 ono. Ph 021 969 851

LIVESTOCK WANTED

GOATS WANTED

Will buy or muster feral goats

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

AGM

of Piopio Light Horse Club to be held at the Piopio Domain Saturday 25th July 2026 at 11am All Welcome

Friday 10th July

Matariki Buffet $35 Adult Entertainment from 7.30pm

Committee Voting Closes 17th July 6pm 59th AGM Sunday 19th July 11am start

GREYPOWER OP SHOP

– raffle results. Grocery raffle #15 Nadine, Quilt #22 Lyn Pitcorn, $100.00 #16

C Hodson. Thank you for supporting us.

Saturday 25th July, 7pm Magician Comedian Jared Fell (Restricted R18)

Notice to the financial members of the Waitomo Club INC.   59th AGM

ATTENTION WHANAU

TOKOPIKO MARAE (AWAROA A2J2 TRUST)

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

To be held Sunday 16th August 2026, 10am Venue: Kawhia Community Hall 141 Jervois Street, Kāwhia

For all enquiries

Juanita Morgan Info.tokopiko@gmail.com

OTEWA MARAE SGM 2026

Saturday 1 August 2026 – 11am

At Ko te Hokingamai ki te Nehenehenui (Otewa Marae), 995 Otewa Rd, Otorohanga

AGENDA

1. Karakia me nga mihimihi

2. Minute taker

3. Apologies

4. Proxies

5. Charter amendments discussion

6. Call for nominations (via profiles and from the floor)

7. Election of new trustees

8. Karakia whakamutunga

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

THOM, Brett Mathew –

On Monday, June 29, 2026 at home in Te Kūiti. Dearly loved son of the late Doug and Margaret. Loved brother and brother-in-law of John and Tania, Greg and Maree. Adored uncle to Maree, Kelly, Hayden, Christopher and Michael. A memorial service for Brett to be held at VJ Williams & Sons Chapel, 33 King Street West, Te Kūiti on Thursday July 9 at 1pm. All communications to Thom Family c/- PO Box 241, Te Kuiti 3941. VJ Williams & Sons, Funeral Directors Association of NZ

Grey Power King Country Members’ Meeting

Monday, July 27th @ 2pm

Te Kuiti Lyceum Club

4 Hinerangi Street, Te Kuiti

Guest Speaker - Violence Free Maniapoto

Please bring a plate to share, and coin for raffles and books for sale

Please renew your membership, especially if you are a Grey Power Electricity user. Email greypowerkingcountry@gmail.com, 02108878356.

Bocock ’s Calf Rearing

Pete 027 433 1440 Mark 0274746917

Prompt pick up and payment Ph Gavin 027 877 7512 or 07 877 7512 TE KŪITI KŌHANGA REO AGM 2026

Sunday 19th July 2026 10am Registration, 11am Start. Agenda, Audited Financials, Remit (1) are available from the club.

Committee voting ends Friday 17th July at 6pm.  Voting papers available during bar opening hours.

ESTATE OF LEONARD JAMES DAWSON

Notice to Creditors and Other Claimants

In the Estate of Leonard James Dawson, retired farmer, of 239 Moerangi Road, Oparau, who died at Oparau on 6 November 2022

Notice is given, pursuant to section 79 of the Trusts Act 2019, to any persons or creditors who believe they have a claim against the Estate for any outstanding debt or interest

Notice is required to be sent in writing along with proof of the claim or interest to C/- Evolution Lawyers, PO Box 56225, Dominion Road, Auckland 1446 or by email to thomas@evolutionlawyers.nz, on behalf of the administrator/ trustee of the Estate.

Such notice is required on or before 14 August 2026, after which the administrator/trustee will proceed to distribute the Estate among those creditors and persons entitled, having regard only to the claims and interests of which they will have had notice

The Estate will not be liable for any claims at the time of administration or

of which notice

given.

Date: Wednesday 22/July/2026

Where: Te Kūiti Kōhanga Reo, 24A Lawrence Street Time: 3:30pm. Zoom: will be available to whānau who are unable to attend.

AGENDA:

• Karakia

• Apologies

• Previous Minutes

• Trustee Chairman Report

• Chairman Report

• Financial/Annual Audit report

• Appointment of an Auditor

• Elections of Chairman, Treasurer & Secretary

• Karakia Whakamutunga

• Whānau hui to be held after AGM NAU MAI, HAERE MAI

9. Lunch

Pleasebringaplatefora sharedlunch!

The SGM will be overseen by an independent Māori Land Court Facilitator, Cameron Hockly. For enquiries, email: cameron@hockly.co.nz

Proxy forms, Charter amendments, Profiles available via the Marae Facebook page.

Harvest Church Ōtorohanga

Sunday Service @ 10.30am 5 Tuhoro Street, Ōtorohanga Ph 07 873 8890 Mob 027 493 0117 Email harvest.pc@xtra.co.nz ALL WELCOME. Pastors Peter & Carole Coventry (An Assemblies of 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

Rowena Bradley 07 878 8694 021 703 008

King Country Christians meet every Sunday in the Piopio

Senior Citizens Hall, Weka Street, Piopio, at 10.30am Phone Judy 021135946 Everyone is welcome! 0211359346

Guiding you with care

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

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

Jim Wright Nissan Ōtorohanga

Keeping their customers safely and reliably on the road is what drives the sta at Jim Wright Nissan in Ōtorohanga.

Manager Merv Carr and his dedicated team pride themselves on o ering friendly and knowledgeable service backed by genuine community values. Whether you are looking for a brand new Nissan, a quality used vehicle, or reliable servicing, you will find everything you need right here in the King Country. From WOFs, tyres, wheel alignments and parts and accessories, to servicing all makes and models, Jim Wright Nissan delivers comprehensive care with a personal touch. Nissan’s reputation for reliability is matched only by the dealership’s commitment to customer satisfaction which includes New

Zealand’s only 10 year, 300,000 km warranty on new vehicles. Alongside their wide range of Nissan vehicles, they also have access to Omoda and Jaecoo, two of the world’s fastest growing automotive brands.

As proud supporters of local schools, sports clubs and neighbourhood groups, Jim Wright Nissan is more than a dealership - it’s a trusted part of the community.

Jim Wright Nissan in Ōtorohanga provides practical advice, vehicles you can trust and support from a friendly and dedicated team. It is a place that gives their customers the sort of exceptional service they can count on.