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King Country News | 1

JUNE 11, 2026

Harrod they go again!

By Dan Tasker

Ōtorohanga Historical Society president Maggie Hughes (left), Ōtorohanga Museum director Liz Cowan (middle) and museum creative co-ordinator Natalie Ngāpō get ready for the ‘Harrodsville’ exhibition starting at the museum today. Photo: Dan Tasker

10, 1986 and was reported on by rock music journalist Dylan Taite, making Ōtorohanga world-famous for sticking it to the big boys. “Nobody really knows about it yet, but we’ve got the original two-minute TV news segment that was broadcast in 1986, which kind of set the whole thing viral,” Cowan said. The exhibition also includes a letter written by Henry Harrod’s sister thanking Ōtorohanga

it was fun’. I thought maybe we should do an exhibition and I put it to the committee who thought absolutely and it’s grown from there,” Cowan said. “It was mid-winter, economic times were tough and it just gave everyone a real buzz, so we thought we’d have a go recreating it,” she said. The exhibition features video footage of the original TV One story which broke on June

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for their efforts to help her brother, an original Harrods banner and t-shirts from the campaign, newspaper extracts from across the world and a curious crop of rhubarb. At the time, car salesman Ian Hardy was presented with a bouquet of rhubarb after he sold a Toyota Cressida for $42,000 to a Wellington man wanting to buy something from Harrods.

MONTHS No Interest and

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It’s a blast from the past today at Ōtorohanga Museum today as the town remembers when it became Harrodsville 40 years ago. The year was 1986 and world leading luxury department store Harrods was threatening legal action against several small New Zealand businesses trading under the same name, including the Harrods restaurant run by Henry Harrod in Palmerston North. The story hit national news, where it caught the eye of Ōtorohanga businessman Barry Marx, who was so annoyed with Harrods picking on the little guys, he decided to take action. Marx went to the Ōtorohanga Business Association, led by Rocky Climo, and signed up 73 businesses to temporarily change their names to Harrods and hang Harrods banners across their shop fronts, while the Ōtorohanga District Council renamed itself the Harrodsville District Council. Ōtorohanga Museum director Liz Cowan was a young rural mum at the time and she remembers it as a cause the whole town got behind. “I remember going into town and seeing the sign on Fisher Fabrics’ window, which said, ‘When you’re next in the UK, visit our London branch’, and I thought that was hilarious,” Cowan said. “It basically gave everyone, rural and town, one hell of a lift because it was so cheeky and so original. Harrods ultimately backed down,” she said. Earlier this year, Cowan came across some Harrodsville memorabilia and remembered 2026 was the 40th anniversary, so she and creative co-ordinator Natalie Ngāpō put the idea of a museum exhibition to the committee and the rest is history. “I came across some bits that said Harrodsville and I thought, ‘Hang on a minute’, and then I did my maths – 1986, 2026 – and I thought, ‘Oh, that’s 40 years and gee,

King Country News THURSDAY JUNE 11, 2026

Magpie Mike’s trash walk By Dan Tasker

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Area Committee volunteers needed We are looking for dedicated volunteers to join Hato Hone St John Area committee to help drive local initiatives and create a lasting impression. This is a unique opportunity to contribute your skills and ideas to strengthen the committee, supporting community health, wellbeing, and volunteer engagement.

For more information: Email recruitment@stjohn.org.nz or call 0800 STJOHN (0800) 785 646)

CONTACTS

News/Editorial Roy Pilott 027 450 0115 Mary Anne Gill 021 705 213 Viv Posselt 027 233 7686 Dan Tasker 021 544 615

editor@goodlocal.nz maryanne@goodlocal.nz viv@goodlocal.nz

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Readers’ contributions of articles and letters are welcome. Publication of contributions are entirely at the discretion of editorial staff and may be edited. Contributions will only be considered for publication when accompanied by the author’s full name, residential address, and telephone number. Opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the publishers. The King Country News is published by Good Local Media Ltd and is distributed to the wider northern King Country area

Whether it’s picking up road rubbish, raising money for mental health or improving local wildlife, Mike Cosgrove is the epitome of a community volunteer. The 68-year-old former auto-electrician was recently awarded the ‘Legend Trophy’, a monthly award bestowed by community group Legendary Te Kūiti on someone making a difference in the community Cosgrove instantly made his mark on Te Kūiti when he and his wife Jackie moved to the area around nine and a half years ago, after he was surprised by the amount of rubbish there was on the roadside. It was around the time the Sir Colin Meads statue was unveiled, when a lot of dignitaries and visitors were about to arrive in town. “I remember thinking, ‘All these people are going to be coming to town, I need to get rid of this rubbish before they get here’,” Cosgrove said. And so for the next nine or so years, that’s what he’s done – a monthly rubbish walk around roads picking up what he estimates to be a total of two to three tonnes of waste. “There were times through Covid I’d do it with Margaret Johnston out at Puketutu; I’d start from the Te Kūiti end and we’d meet in the middle and then turn around and do the other side of the road,” Cosgrove said. “It’s been interesting to watch things change over time. There used to be a heap of smoking packets, now it’s turned into those vaping machines. Through Covid, there were lots of masks people had obviously thrown away that I picked up,” he said. He’s come across some interesting items on his rubbish runs, including a couple $50

On the beat

notes and “different bits and bobs that have literally fallen off the back of a truck”, to the point his wife now calls him a magpie for “bringing home anything shiny”. One of Cosgrove’s other passions is fitness, having ran marathons and scaled mountains in all seven continents, but a serious motorcycle accident in 2013 put the adventuring on hold. Cosgrove underwent 13 surgeries to his mangled right leg over the course of a twoyear rehabilitation period to get to the point where he could walk again, albeit with a slightly shorter leg. He began planning challenges to get himself active again, culminating with his 1200km journey through the Nullarbor Plain from Ceduna in South Australia to Norseman in Western Australia in 2023. “We headed over there in May when it was a bit cooler. I’d usually start my walking at about 3.30am to beat the heat later in the day, it was pretty cold in the morning so I’d wear my puffer jacket, but it would get up to around 30 degrees at times,” Cosgrove said. With support from Jackie who travelled alongside in their campervan, Cosgrove completed the challenge in 25 days, averaging almost 50km of walking every day on shoes with the names of loved ones who had committed suicide etched on the sides. As a way of helping people struggling with mental health, Cosgrove raised $11,000 for Gumboot Friday, a New Zealand charity that provides free counselling services for young people. Cosgrove has also spent many volunteer hours on his love of the outdoors by getting involved in local projects like Project Manu at the Mangaokewa Reserve or preserving whio in Pureora.

Community champion Mike Cosgrove (right) recently received Legendary Te Kūiti’s ‘Legend Trophy’. He is pictured with his wife Jackie. Photo: Supplied

Soon after moving to Te Kūiti, Cosgrove learned about Project Manu, which aims to protect and improve the biodiversity of the Mangaokewa Reserve, from his neighbours and project volunteers Keith and Elly Buswell, “I just love the outdoors and have enjoyed getting involved at Mangaokewa and Pureora; we do a lot of track work and trapping and it’s great to see all the wildlife flourishing out there,” Cosgrove said.

with Constable Chris Aspin

Beware those scammers We are continuing to receive reports of overseas scam calls. These scammers often pose as bank fraud staff and attempt to convince victims to install software on their devices, giving them remote access. They may then pressure people into providing personal information or logging into their online banking. If something feels off, hang up immediately. Do not click on links or download unfamiliar applications. If concerned, disconnect your internet or power down your device. If you believe you may have been targeted, contact your bank directly using the verified New Zealand number. Police attended a crash on Oparure Road where a driver failed to negotiate a bend and

struck a bush line. No injuries were reported, however, the 22-year-old male driver returned a breath alcohol level well over the legal limit. Their licence was suspended, and they were summons to Court. During enquiries at a Te Kuiti address, staff recovered a stolen ute taken from out of area, investigations are ongoing. In a separate Te Kuiti matter, police are making enquiries to locate a 29-year-old man following a reported breach of a protection order incident. Police responded to a crash on Waitomo Caves Road after a vehicle went through a farm fence. Police are awaiting blood test results to determine if the driver was under the influence. On Pukerimu Road, a vehicle rolled

leaving the driver injured and requiring transport to Waikato Hospital. Staff also attended a crash on Ngahape Road, believed to have been caused by wet conditions combined with an earlier oil spill. Police responded to a report of a stolen ute being advertised for sale in Te Kuiti. The vehicle was recovered and returned to the owner. The alleged offender, who had an active warrant, was later arrested in Te Awamutu by King Country staff and has been charged with unlawfully taking a motor vehicle and obtaining by deception. As always, please report suspicious activity and take extra care on the roads, especially with changing weather conditions.

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THURSDAY JUNE 11, 2026

Briefs… King’s honour

Ōtorohanga raised Warwick Wilshier was named a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit in the King’s Honours announced last week. Now based in Whakatane, Wilshier has been a logging truck operator for more than 40 years. The 65-year-old was honoured for his service to the industry and transforming safety standards. Wilshier was a founding member of the New Zealand Log Transport Safety Council formed in 1996 and chaired it for more than a quarter of a century. He was named Rotorua’s business person of the year in 2024.

Deed review

Te Nehenehenui is in the midst of a five-year review of its trust deed and holding meetings in a dozen venues this month. The “road show” began at Te Kūiti Pa on June 2 and after stops in Piopio, Māniati, Taumarunui, Kāwhia, Ōtorohanga and Hamilton is now on the road to Auckland, Wellington, Rotorua, the top of the South Island and Christchurch

Fieldays open

Federated Farmers have timed the launch of a fivepoint plan of what is says should be the major focus of the next government to coincide with the opening of Fieldays this week at Mystery Creek.

Digital saint

The relic of Carlo Acutis, described as a saint for the digital age, is travelling through the Hamilton Catholic Diocese, which includes Cambridge, Te Awamutu and King Country, this month. Monsignor Anthony Figueiredo will take Acutis’ pericardium, the membrane that surrounds the heart, on the tour. Acutis, an English-born Italian teenager and computer programmer, died of leukaemia in 2006 at age 15 and became the church’s first millennial saint when he was canonised last year.

King Country News | 3

Merger momentum builds By Mary Anne Gill

A King Country council appeared to move a step closer this week after comments from Local Government minister Simon Watts. Ōtorohanga mayor Rodney Dow and Waitomo mayor John Robertson were among those at a mayoral forum which met Watts after a ceremony in Cambridge marking the handover of water services to Waikato Waters. Dow and Robertson back a merger between their two councils and confirmed to The News they had yet to hear from southern neighbour Ruapehu about whether it wants to be part of a wider, more traditional King Country council, a connection both mayors have previously pointed to in support of closer alignment. Taumarunui, and to a lesser extent Ohakune and Raetihi, have long-standing ties to Te Rohe Pōtae, the King Country, alongside Te Kūiti and Ōtorohanga. From July 1, Ōtorohanga and Waitomo districts will see their drinking water and wastewater services shift into Waikato Waters, which

will eventually serve more than 170,000 people across the wider Waikato region. The other councils are Waipā, Hauraki, South Waikato and MatamataPiako. Ruapehu is not part of Waikato Waters and is instead progressing a joint water services arrangement with Whanganui District Council. Watts said the way Waikato councils had worked together to establish Waikato Waters showed how collaboration could help shape future local government structures. “They’re using the experience from what they’ve done in water to guide them on that process, more efficiency, greater simplification,” he said. “The intent and the objective is to simplify local government … it’s for the local communities here in the Waikato to work out what is the model that works best.” Watts left the ceremony at the Cambridge Wastewater Treatment Plant to attend the Waikato Mayoral Forum, which includes Hamilton and Waikato district councils and Waikato Regional Council, where discussions

On top of Waikato water, from left South Waikato mayor Gary Petley, Waikato Waters board members Jon Lamonte, Jaydene Kana and chair Elena Trout, Waitomo, Waipā, Hauraki and Ōtorohanga mayors John Robertson, Mike Pettit, Toby Adams and Rodney Dow. Photo: Mary Anne Gill

included what reform might look like across the region. Dow and Robertson were talking with Waipā mayor Mike Pettit during the water ceremony, underlining the conversations already under way between councils about future structures. South Waikato mayor Gary Petley was also asked by The News about progress on his council’s position and whether discussions were under way with Rotorua and Taupō councils. He said councillors would be workshopping those options in the coming days.

The reform conversation comes as Waikato Waters prepares to shift from establishment into operations after more than two years of planning. Hauraki mayor Toby Adams, speaking on behalf of the shareholder councils, said they had common challenges. They included ageing infrastructure, rising costs and increasing regulatory requirements, all of which have put pressure on smaller councils. The new Waikato Waters model is expected to

allow for more efficient investment, improve financial sustainability and ease pressure on ratepayers over time. For residents in Ōtorohanga and Waitomo, changes in the first year are expected to be minimal, and councils will continue to handle billing and customer contact. Behind the scenes, however, work is under way to understand the condition and performance of assets across the six councils to guide future investment decisions.

More calls for vape restrictions By Roy Pilott

Politicians can expect more pressure from health and iwi organisations as calls to tackle the growth of vaping increase in volume. New Zealand health organisations are backing a World Health Organisation push to remove flavours from nicotine products, saying sweet, fruity, confectionerystyle flavours are undermining efforts to protect young people from addiction and disease. Kia Manawanui Trust - The Heart of Aotearoa and the Asthma and Respiratory Foundation NZ have welcomed the call, which comes amid growing concern about the

impact vaping can have on both respiratory and cardiovascular health. The News reported last week that Te Tiratū Iwi Māori Partnership Board – which takes in Waikato, Hauraki, Maniapoto, Raukawa and Ngāti Haua - want commercial vape sales banned. This week the board told the news it supported stronger national and international action to reduce the appeal and availability of flavoured nicotine products. “Vaping is not a neutral consumer product. It is a highly engineered nicotine delivery system that has been normalised through marketing strategies that deliberately increase appeal to young people. This includes the use of bright packaging,

lifestyle branding, and a wide range of sweet and confectionery-style flavours,” the partnership board said. “Removing or significantly restricting flavours is a logical and evidence-based step in reducing that appeal particularly for rangatahi Māori. Our position is that vaping products should not be designed, marketed, or sold in ways that attract young people.” The World Health Organisation says flavours such as bubble gum, cotton candy and menthol help drive nicotine addiction among young people by masking the harshness of tobacco and nicotine products and making them more appealing to experiment with. Belgium, Denmark and Lithuania

have restricted flavoured nicotine products. Asthma and Respiratory Foundation chief Letitia Harding said flavours had become one of the industry's most effective tools for attracting young people to products that carry health risks. "These products are being marketed as fun, colourful and harmless, but that's not what the evidence tells us.” She said research has found some flavouring used in e-cigarettes can damage blood vessel cells and disrupt normal heart rhythms. Other studies have linked vaping to airway inflammation, respiratory symptoms and reduced lung function

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King Country News THURSDAY JUNE 11, 2026 A DVE R TO R I A L

Pragmatic, Compassionate Budget Delivers Lifeline for Taranaki and King Country By Barbara Kuriger MP for Taranaki/King Country This year’s Budget stands out as one of the most memorable during my time in Parliament. Here’s why I think so. To me, the 2026 Budget from Finance Minister Nicola Willis is a unique mix of two qualities that don’t often go together: pragmatism and compassion. For example, there’s a major increase in infrastructure investment, especially for roads and rail, along with a focus on fuel resilience and supply. That’s the practical side. On the other hand, it’s clear the Budget recognises New Zealanders are facing tough times. We’re dealing with heavy debt, global uncertainty, unstable trading markets, and rising fuel prices that affect nearly every part of society. Even with these challenges, the Government has managed to fund a $5.5 billion boost for frontline health services, $470 million to upgrade schools and add 272 new classrooms, and another $50 million for frontline police. That’s the compassionate side. Some have called this a back-to-basics Budget, and I agree that’s what we need right now. We need a Budget and a Government that focus on the most urgent needs and offer practical solutions. It’s also worth noting that this Budget is set to return to a $2.6 billion operating surplus by the 2028/29 financial year, which is a year ahead of schedule. That’s the big picture. But there’s also a local

example that shows how this Budget focuses on real needs and pays attention to detail: Awakino Gorge. Someone joked to me recently that it’s less about driving through the gorge and more about when we can actually get through. Since July 2021, the stretch between Mount Messenger and the SH4 junction has closed 14 times due to weather. Earlier this year, it was shut for over a month after severe storms. This road is crucial for King Country and Taranaki, and every closure can cost the local economy millions. The Government understands this, which is why $50 million has been set aside to make the road through the gorge stronger against bad weather, focusing on the most at-risk parts. To me, this is what good government means: managing the country’s finances while staying connected to what local communities really need. For people in Taranaki and King Country, the money for Awakino Gorge isn’t just a number on a page. It’s a lifeline for families, farmers, and businesses who depend on that road every day. When the road is open, trucks can run, milk gets to the factory, kids get to school, and emergency services can reach those who need help. And that is the heart of this Budget: help for those who need it most. That’s why I believe this is the exact Budget we most need right now.

Barbara Kuriger MP for Taranaki-King Country

Award for TLC man

Muhammad Ali’s research work will benefit Lines Company customers.

By Dan Tasker

Muhammad Ali has been awarded the Asset Management Research Scholarship, a competitive Australasian award recognising excellence in asset management research. The Lines Company (TLC) network analyst – who has been with the company since 2023 - was announced as the 2026 Asset Management Council research scholar at the Ampeak26 conference in Perth recently. His 12-month research project, ‘Asset Criticality Modelling in Electricity Distribution Networks’, will examine how electricity network assets are assessed for criticality, helping identify where failures would have the greatest impact and supporting better prioritisation of investment and operational resources. Ali said the research would be incorporated into TLC’s asset management practices and help improve long-term network planning. “It will help us pinpoint where a failure would cause the biggest impact, so we can focus our spending and day-to-day effort on the areas that will reduce risk the most and deliver the greatest benefit for customers,” Ali said. The scholarship, worth almost $11,000, provides funding for practical, workplacebased research that advances asset management practices, while delivering benefits to both the recipient’s organisation and the wider community.

TLC general manager network Gerhard Buitendach said the award recognised Ali’s dedication and would deliver tangible benefits for customers. “We’re very proud of Ali’s achievement. He invested significant time preparing a strong application and progressed through multiple interviews as part of the selection process,” Buitendach said. “Having extra dollars to further our research means TLC customers realise benefits in terms of reliability and service,” he said. Buitendach said the research aligned closely with the company’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its network and improve decision-making around asset management. “This scholarship directly supports the work we are doing through TLC’s development and delivery plan, particularly our focus on improving our criticality approach as part of delivering sustained improvements to the network,” Buitendach said. “Strengthening our modelling helps us make more transparent, evidence-based decisions about where the network is most vulnerable, what matters most for public safety and reliability, and how we prioritise improvements over time so that we deliver what is best for customers,” he said. The research is expected to contribute to improvements in network reliability, public safety and customer outcomes, while advancing industry knowledge in electricity distribution asset management.

Backing Rural and Provincial New Zealand Inglewood Office 80 Rata St, PO Box 124, Inglewood 06 756 6032 • Kuriger.Inglewood@parliament.govt.nz Te Awamutu Office 196 Alexandra Street, Te Awamutu 07 870 1005 • Kuriger.Teawamutu@parliament.govt.nz King Country Virtual Office 021 815 017 Kuriger.Kingcountry@parliament.govt.nz

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King Country News | 5

THURSDAY JUNE 11, 2026

Arapuni dam road to close By Mary Anne Gill

Drivers who regularly travel between South Waikato, Waipā and the King Country via the Arapuni Dam will take a detour for up to three years. Mercury will shut the road across the dam during construction work to strengthen part of the structure and manage seepage. The project is expected to begin soon and last 24 to 36 months. A temporary detour along Powerhouse Road will include a single-lane section controlled by traffic lights, which is likely to slow traffic at times – and it won’t cater for larger freight vehicles. The crossing is a key link between Cambridge, Te Awamutu, King Country and South Waikato towns, and widely used by commuters, school buses and freight operators. Programme manager Tom Newson said based on the modelling, the detour is expected to add up to 10 minutes to journeys. The detour is designed to keep local connections open. It will be suitable for cars, light vehicles, motorcycles, school buses and some shorter rigid trucks, but larger freight vehicles will be turned away. That includes logging trucks, tankers and longer truck and trailer units, whose drivers will be required to take alternative routes. “The standards are not sufficient to accommodate them,” Newson said. Drivers of heavy vehicles coming from the south who would usually use the Arapuni road will be encouraged to continue on State Highway 3 and turn off onto Airport Road (State Highway 21) then head through Tamahere to the Waikato Expressway. “The reason we’re maintaining the detour is really to service this

Mercury programme manager Tom Newson, who has overall responsibility for the project points to a graphic showing the work underway.

community, the schools, the farming community and make sure they can get around,” Newson said. Hydro stakeholder manager Larnie Chrystall said she had been communicating with freight operators for a couple of years. “So far I’ve contacted probably 54 out of the 80 odd companies that use this road and not one of them has said’ I didn’t know about it’.” The response from the sector had been better than expected, she said. “They’ve been very engaged in the project,” she said. “They all understand what this means, they know what we’re doing, they know why we’re doing it.” Chrystall said some operators had even offered suggestions to help. “Every now and then I get one of them ringing up saying, have you thought about putting in cameras,” she said. The work at Arapuni Dam is part of a long-term

effort to maintain one of the Waikato River’s key hydro assets. The dam is almost 100 years old and remains a significant part of the hydro system. Engineers have identified the need to install a new underground cut-off wall to reduce water seepage. Work will focus on the left abutment of the dam. Nearby generation will

continue as normal during construction. “It’s a bit of short-term pain for a few, but the idea is we put it back right and it serves us well into the future,” Newson said. Mercury plans to ramp up communication closer to the closure, with signs and messages to help road users prepare. • See: Inside Arapuni’s hidden past, page 12-13.

… so does the gorge Geotechnical checks revealed the potential for further slips in the Awakino Gorge this week, prompting its closure on Tuesday evening. Routine inspections identified fresh movement at the site of the significant slip which just recently kept the gorge closed for an extended period. Geotechnical specialists were scheduled to be on site yesterday (Wednesday) carrying out a detailed assessment, including inspecting the slip area. An NZTA statement said the decision has been made for the safety of all road users and crews working in the area. “NZTA does not make these decisions lightly - we’d prefer if we could keep the road open and maintain important access, however the safety of all road users is paramount… we will be working to safely reopen the road as quickly as possible.”

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King Country News THURSDAY JUNE 11, 2026

ŌTO R O H AN GA D I STR I CT

RUBBISH AND RECYCLING

CoLLecTIOns UpdATe Some changes are coming to kerbside rubbish and recycling collections in Ōtorohanga District from 1 July. These are part of improving how we collect, sort and recycle waste across the district.

New rubbish bag colour

Extra recycling crate

WHAt yOU nEEd TO know: RUBBISH COLLECTION

RECYCLING COLLECTION

• Red rubbish bags: The rubbish bag colour for the Ōtorohanga District Council rubbish collections will be changing from yellow to red from 1 July. This is because we have a new contractor, Evolve Ventures. When the bags are available to buy from local shops, we’ll let you know on our Facebook page and website www.otodc.govt.nz.

• Extra recycling crate: Evolve Ventures will deliver an extra recycling crate from mid-June to help with your recycling. The new blue crate is for glass. You’ll continue to use your green crate for paper, cardboard, tins, cans and plastics #1, #2 and #5.

• Ōtorohanga collection days: There will be new collection days for some in Ōtorohanga, depending on location (Wednesday or Thursday). See your collection day on the map below. The map is also on our website at: www.otodc.govt.nz/otorohanga-kerbsidecollections-map

ŌTOROHANGA COLLECTION DAYS

wEDnESday Te K

THE 8 FOR yOUr crATES

Scan the QR code to learn more about what can and can’t be recycled.

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• Recycling tips: You’ll receive a flyer the same day your new recycling crate is delivered with helpful tips to ensure your recycling can be collected. We also have helpful videos on our website at www.otodc.govt.nz/recycle-right

wa St

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thursday

KĀWHIA AND AOTEA’S COLLECTION DAY

This will remain on Monday, except for public holidays when it will be on Wednesday. The Kāwhia Waste Transfer Station will be open on public holiday Mondays.

FROM

1 JULY

Collection day changes for some

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS What do I do if I have yellow rubbish bags left over after 1 July (when the Ōtorohanga District Council rubbish bags change to red)? • Yellow rubbish bags will be collected in the Ōtorohanga District under the council contract with Enviro NZ up to Wednesday 24 June for Ōtorohanga, and up to Monday 29 June for Kāwhia and Aotea. After that, red rubbish bags will be collected from the next scheduled collection day. • For anyone who has yellow bags left after 1 July, please contact Enviro NZ via their website at www.environz.co.nz or call them on 0800 240 120. • Yellow rubbish bags can continue to be dropped off at the Ōtorohanga and Kāwhia Waste Transfer Stations until 18 July. (See opening hours on our website). What is happening with the Waste Transfer Stations?

RURAL RECYCLING DROP-OFFS:

• Council’s new rubbish and recycling contractor Evolve takes over managing the Ōtorohanga and Kāwhia Waste Transfer Stations from 1 July 2026.

• Upgrades: In June and July, Ōtorohanga District will be completing some upgrades at our Rural Recycling Drop-offs at Arohena, Korakonui, Maihiihi and Ngutunui.

• The Ōtorohanga Transfer Station will be closed on 29 and 30 June to enable the handover from current operator Enviro NZ to Evolve. Reopening 1 July.

• During this time, the sites will have periods of time where they are unavailable. We will keep communities informed of the work.

• The Kāwhia Waste Transfer Station handover happens on 30 June. Reopening 1 July.

• Our Kāwhia and Ōtorohanga Waste Transfer Stations are available to take recycling for anyone who usually uses the rural sites (no cost).

• The closures are to enable Enviro NZ to safely remove their equipment from the site.

If you have any questions, please phone 0800 734 000 or email info@otodc.govt.nz For updates, go to www.otodc.govt.nz/rubbish-and-recycling-collections-updates

THURSDAY JUNE 11, 2026

Kalani stars in pageant By Dan Tasker

Ōtorohanga’s Kalani Henry capped off a memorable evening to place third runnerup at the Miss New Zealand coronation night at Takapuna’s Bruce Mason Centre on Saturday. The 20-year-old beauty therapist made it through the main round of 10 contestants to the top five, which eventually saw Auckland’s Chloe Robinson crowned Miss NZ for 2026. At the final ceremony, Henry was named ‘Miss Elite NZ’ as the third runner-up and will represent New Zealand at the Miss Elite international beauty pageant in Egypt in September. She was also awarded the ‘Miss People’s Choice’ sash, which was voted for online by the public. “I was so nervous but also really excited. By that point, I had already completed the hardest parts of the competition, and it was finally time for the announcement; it felt like time was moving so slowly,” Henry said. “We also had to stand there poised with a smile on our faces, while all of the emotions

were running through our minds. It was definitely a nervewracking moment. “I was very emotional. Hearing my family cheering and knowing they were so proud of me meant everything. In that moment, I thought about all the hard work that had gone into my journey, and it felt a little surreal that I was standing there in the top five,” she said. Qualifying for the next round alongside Robinson, Allison Sauz, Mackenzie Stewart and Gemma Kirk, Henry was asked how she would promote the ‘beauty with a purpose’ aspect of Miss NZ to a potential sponsor. “Miss NZ can help communities by spreading awareness through charities, such as my advocacy, antibullying and mental health awareness. Through spreading awareness through schools and bringing communities together, we can make a bigger impact and a real positive difference in our society,” Henry said. Henry said the pageant process and the coronation night had taught her “so much” about life. “It pushed me outside of

my comfort zone, helped me become more confident and gave me a platform to speak about things that matter to me. The friendships, opportunities and lessons I’ve gained are things I’ll carry with me long after the crown.” The coronation night featured national costume, swimsuit, talent and evening gown categories. “Winning People’s Choice meant so much because it came directly from the support of the people around me and those who believed in my journey. Knowing that people took the time to vote and support me made me feel incredibly grateful and humbled,” Henry said. Henry’s pride in where she was from was on show, particularly in the national costume section, where she wore a black and green dress adorned with lights to signifying the Waitomo glow worm caves, and was cloaked in a korowai. Her tourism video, which contestants produced to promote where they were from, was played on the night and also featured the caves.

King Country News | 7

Kalani Henry, backstage with her brother Kahlin (left) and Mason at the coronation night in Auckland on Saturday.

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King Country News THURSDAY JUNE 11, 2026

ON SHAKY GROUND

The El Hierro eruption By Janine Krippner

As I am gearing up for my yearly work trip to the Canary Islands, the 2011–2012 submarine eruption off the island of El Hierro is on my mind. The Canary Islands are a group of volcanic islands offshore northwest Africa, and part of Spain. Across millions of years, the islands have undergone numerous eruption cycles and partial collapse events. Eruptions below the ocean can be impactful, and this includes the unrest period. Unrest is the activity before the eruption itself. This includes seismic activity, the earthquakes that occur as magma, hydrothermal fluids, and gases, move through the brittle crustal rock, breaking the rock as it goes and possibly activating nearby faults. This unrest can profoundly disrupt communities, even when the eruption ends up occurring below the ocean. This was the case leading to the El Hierro eruption. For the communities living through this unrest, the uncertainty is its own kind of crisis. There is no way of knowing where the new vent will open, as is the case for our own Auckland Volcanic Field. We also cannot know exactly when, though that becomes clearer closer to the start of the eruption. The other unknowns are how big the eruption will be, then how long it will last. Although estimates can be made for those too with the right monitoring and information. Unrest was first detected in July 2011. The volcanic crisis had begun. The seismicity was largely below the island, caused by the intrusion and accumulation of magma that was centred around 10-15 km below the surface. This resulted in around 27cm of uplift. As volcanologists, we are tasked with

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understanding the range of scenarios and helping decision makers, responders, and communities to prepare for activity with that uncertainty. This is a tough job with high stakes, and with real impacts for the people who live there. We can all imagine that not knowing if a volcano were to erupt below your home or business for weeks on end would leave scars. In September the seismicity showed magma migrating southwards. Magma doesn’t just travel straight upwards in settings like this. Seismicity was also accompanied by ground deformation, the slight movement of the surface from the magma accumulating below. When the main vent opened on October 10, located 1.8 km off the southern coast at 900m below sea level, the damage had been done. These are complex and difficult situations for everyone involved, especially when there hasn’t been an eruption in recent memory. Volcanoes are complicated, and so are people and society. It takes scientists and communities working together to help reduce the impacts of these events. The social sciences are critical to effectively doing so. The eruption ended on March 5, 2012, and volcanologists go on to spend years working on the data to learn more about how these eruptions progress. There is always a lot to learn about the volcanic system, but also the human side of these events and how we can better support our communities next time. And there will always be a next time.

King Country News | 9

THURSDAY JUNE 11, 2026

AGE OF REASON

Rethinking nuclear

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By Richard Steele

We have to go back to the horse, fossil fuels are wrecking too much of the environment, the emissions are out of hand, and the result is climate change and complete worldwide devastation. If you believe everything you are told. I bring up the horse thing because obscurely, Chris Penk, our Minister of Defence, has suggested we revisit our nuclear free stance. He got thoroughly rubbished for doing so and I’m not quite sure why. Because while most of us agree with our position on nuclear weapons, I’m not sure why we are so opposed to nuclear power. Obviously, I’m no expert, but for all my faults, I’m pragmatic, and I see that if driving the world with fossil fuels is so bad for us, and I’m sure it is, why are we not looking at all the alternatives, rationally? That there have been some major disasters with nuclear power plants, is well known, and getting rid of the nuclear waste is a yet to be solved issue. These are good reasons for caution, but I’m not sure what’s wrong with nuclear powered ships, submarines, or trains for that matter. I wouldn’t trust our electricity suppliers as far as I could kick them, they are paying themselves a fortune, to provide us with power, from assets our tax dollars paid for. And there is no public sympathy for new hydroelectric generation, or for any on shore coal mining, to power thermal generation either. Solar is a great bet, a positive way

forward in the green world we wish to live in but will solar be enough? A highly respected and erudite Waimiha farmer I know once suggested to a group of us that the best opposition to the large power companies is actually us. The consumers, coming up with our own alternatives. Obviously, it’s easier for landowners to achieve than city people, but even people in towns and cities can be more efficient and use less of a commodity that is only going to get more expensive. So why not remain nuclear weapon free, a stance we are all proud of, but have a rational debate about nuclear power? I’m not a zealot, if there are reasons why we shouldn’t go down this path, I’d love to hear them. All I’ve heard so far, is that we mustn’t, we know rational beyond the political emotion. The horse thing is actually stupid... not only would we need too many, but you can never catch them when you need them, and they would need more grass than the whole dairy industry. But we should be looking for alternatives, so that’s my point. I think hydro power is great in the right place; I think solar power is the way forward in many situations. Maintaining the generating capacity we have now is a no brainer, for the future though, I think we need more that these alternatives can provide. That’s where to me a rational debate about nuclear power becomes necessary.

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King Country News THURSDAY JUNE 11, 2026

Gardening F O R B LO O M I N G BEAUTIES AND P L A N T S T H AT THRIVE

Shining a light on saving By Dan Tasker

Katrina Christison

Tidy Gardens

Dahlias - food for thought

Dahlias are one of those plants that really earn their keep in the garden. Through late summer and into autumn they just keep pumping out flowers—big, bold blooms that last well both outside and in a vase. At the moment you’ll notice they’re are slowing down as they die down for Winter. There are still a few flowers hanging on, but we’re definitely heading toward the end of their season. But here’s something not everyone realises—dahlias aren’t just about the flowers. Dahlias grow from tubers (a bit like potatoes), and those tubers are actually edible. Before they became a garden favourite, they were grown as a food crop in parts of Central America. You can eat them raw or cooked, and the flavour can sit somewhere between a crisp apple, a carrot and a mild potato—slightly sweet with a bit of crunch, depending on the variety. You can slice them into salads, roast

More than 400 people turned out to mark a bright move for Te Kūiti last week as it aims to become the first town in New Zealand to be fully lit by LED lights. The ‘Lights On’ event was part of Genesis Energy’s wider ‘The Great Lightbulb Switch’ campaign which kicked off at The Great New Zealand Muster event in April, designed to demonstrate the savings a town could make by switching to LED bulbs. The weather was miserable, but people lined up for free lightbulbs, a hot dog and chips, before enjoying a show at the town’s shearing statue to mark the occasion. Waitomo mayor John Robertson thanked everyone for coming out and Genesis Energy for choosing Te Kuiti for the pilot programme, before Genesis Energy general manager retail James Ryan explained the project’s mission. “A lot of people who came into the office today asked me, ‘Why is Genesis doing this?’. Genesis is on a mission; Genesis’ mission is to lower the cost of energy for New Zealand. Genesis as a company is doing some big things, is spending billions of dollars building new renewable power stations and trying to convert Huntly (Power Station) to biomass, but that’s not enough,” Ryan said. “We can’t do it just by doing big things,

we need to do it by lots of little actions as well. Someone in Te Kuiti changing a light bulb might sound like a small action, but when you multiply it by thousands, you achieve what we’ve achieved today which is converting an entire town. “Next we’re trying to work out how can we take what we’ve done here today by bringing people together and take it to the whole country,” he said. More than 10,000 free Ecobulb LED lightbulbs have been given away to Te Kūiti households since the project launched in April. Genesis Energy guessed it could collectively save the town more than $400,000 a year in electricity costs. Genesis Energy chief revenue officer Stephen England-Hall said Te Kūiti is showing what’s possible when a community comes together around a practical idea. “LED bulbs use up to 90 percent less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs. Removing old bulbs is the equivalent of taking a small city off the grid and puts money back in the pockets of households already facing rising costs going into winter,” England-Hall said. Genesis Energy will track energy use across Te Kūiti over winter, measuring household savings, kilowatt hours reduced and carbon emissions avoided.

them, or throw them into a stir-fry. They also contain inulin, a natural fibre that’s good for gut health. While dahlia tubers are not poisonous and are considered safe for people to eat, they haven’t been widely bred for flavour like traditional food crops. That means the difference is in taste, not safety. Some varieties are mild and pleasant, even slightly sweet, while others can be quite bitter or bland. Like anything new, it’s a good idea to try a small amount first and see how you go. Because they’re high in inulin, some people can find they don’t sit that well if you have too much straight off the bat. As your plants start to die back, it’s a great time to lift and divide your tubers— an easy way to get more plants for free and keep the garden full next season. It’s a nice reminder that sometimes the plants we grow just for looks can have a practical side too—something a little bit different to appreciate as the seasons change.

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Te Kūiti celebrated a drive to become New Zealand’s first fully LED lit town with a light show at the shearing statue last Thursday. Photo: Supplied

King Country News | 11

THURSDAY JUNE 11, 2026

Under-13s put on a show But just when it looked like Ōtorohanga had packed it in, they came storming back after the break with tries to number eight Israel Wynyard and hooker Reuben Eynon to keep the score line reasonably close. Both teams played similar expansive styles and had a willingness to do the tough stuff up the middle, but the difference was Waitete had a couple more key game-breakers to call on. Other stand-out performers were Flynn Kearins-Te Whare and Bentley Jones for Waitete, and Steven Jackson and Millie Wanden for Ōtorohanga. This Saturday is the last round of the eight-team U13 regular season, with two North King Country teams hosting games – Ōtorohanga (2) v

By Dan Tasker

An unbeaten Waitete U13 faced their toughest challenge of the season on Saturday to defeat Ōtorohanga 41-26 in Te Kuiti. The junior blues have high hopes of defending the Jim Gibb Shield after winning last year’s King Country U13 competition, but Saturday’s topof-the-table duel will have a few in Te Kuiti peering north over the fence as Ōtorohanga made a good fist of it. After initially competing well, Ōtorohanga lost touch with Waitete as their big ball-carriers centre Demyriuz Pu Tamainu TaitokoDewes, number eight Cyrus Turner and prop Isaiah Vili ran amok to give the home team a 36-7 lead at halftime.

Tongariro (5) and Piopio (4) v Taupo Sports Vikings (3) – while Waitete will have a week off after their opposition Taupo Marist defaulted. In senior women’s rugby, Waitete have booked themselves a home quarter-final against Hinuera on Saturday, after finishing second behind Taupiri-Te Kauwhata in the Waikato Championship regular season. Meanwhile, things are getting a little bit prickly in King Country premier men’s club rugby, as the scrap to make the playoffs goes up a gear with three weeks of the regular season left. Taumarunui Districts will have the opportunity to solidify their top two credentials against Taupo Sports this Saturday, after knocking over

bottom-placed Waitomo 67-0 at a sodden Waitomo Domain last week. After weeks of beautiful autumn weather, the heavens opened last week to leave the water-logged domain in a muddy mess as Districts dispatched Waitomo in bog-like conditions. Districts welcomed former Te Kuiti High School and Chiefs Under 20 first five-eighth Hone Mathieson into the driver’s seat after a couple of years plying his trade in Taranaki club rugby for New Plymouth Old Boys and Coastal, and his influence was instantly felt. Waitomo, as they have almost religiously done for the last two seasons, kept fronting up under pressure, with captain Phil Lord, loose forward Brooklyn Pye and lock

Kenneth Perawiti the best for the green-and-blacks. The JR shield goes back on the line between Waitete and Piopio this Saturday, in a game that will carry some pressure for Waitete following their 53-3 loss to Taupo Sports last week. The derby against Piopio is even more important for the blue bellies if they are to hold on to fourth spot, with games against competition leaders Taupo Marist (home) and fifth-placed Taumarunui Eels (away) to finish the regular season in the coming weeks. King Country premier men’s club rugby standings: Taupo Marist 47, Taumarunui Districts 39, Taupo Sports 34, Waitete 31, Taumarunui Eels 29, Piopio 17, Waitomo 5.

One to savour “Did he save it again?” That became a commonly heard phrase both on and off the park when Ōtorohanga goalkeeper Aaron Smith produced a wonder show in Hamilton on Saturday. The hosts, league leaders Claudelands Wallies, won the Waikato first division soccer clash 3-2. And but for a series of extraordinary saves from Smith the margin would have been greater. Only home striker Micheal

Cosgrave could find a way passed him – he bagged all three goals for the hosts. Nathan Scott and substitute Noah Brownlie responded with excellent strikes in each half. Three Claudelands and one Cambridge team are running away with league, leaving Ōtorohanga, Huntly, Northern United, Melville, Unicol and Te Awamutu to battle it out for fifth. Ōtorohanga hosts Cambridge on Saturday.

PICK UP LOCATIONS You can pick up a free King Country News from any of the following locations or view online our e-edition at www.kingcountrynews.nz

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Aaron Smith made a series of spectacular saves but could do nothing about Claudelands’ opener.

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Last week Across: 1. Het up, 4. Scrimp, 8. Garland, 9. Siren, 10. Limit, 11. Titanic, 12. Sudden, 14. Pierce, 17. Revenge, 19. Jaunt, 21. Noted, 22. Perturb, 23. Defend, 24. Delve. Down: 1. Highly strung, 2. Thrum, 3. Prattle, 4. Sedate, 5. Resit, 6. Mariner, 7. Unacceptable, 13. Devotee, 15. Injured, 16. Heaped, 18. Nudge, 20. Usual.

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King Country News | 13

THURSDAY JUNE 11, 2026

with Jan Bilton

Going gluten-free

Being gluten-intolerant was once an almost unheard-of health complication. But over the years, navigating the world without gluten has become an extreme sport for millions. Enjoy Caesar Salad? Just watch out for that rogue, glutenfilled crouton because you might end up with those classic Coeliac symptoms of bloating, stomach pains, fatigue and headaches. Studies show that about 10 per cent of the population are wheat and gluten sensitive, but four out of five don’t know it. Coeliac disease is a medical condition. People with the disease have a permanent intestinal intolerance to gluten found in wheat, barley, rye and, in some cases, oats. Hundreds of everyday foods contain gluten, including breads, biscuits, pies, pastries, pasta, sausages bound with breadcrumbs, and sauces and soups thickened with wheat flour. So it’s scan every grocery ingredient list like a detective for that evil gluten! Most breakfast cereals should also be avoided. Drinks to dodge include lemon and barley water, as well as brewed drinks made with barley such as beer and stout. Luckily, gone are the days of cardboard-like bread. We’re living in an age of almond flour and tapioca magic. Manufacturers have quickly adjusted and improved their gluten-free ranges, and these products are more easily identified. Gf Prune & Chocolate Brownie This recipe makes one large, rich cake. It may be cut into quarters, wrapped in film and frozen in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Great served warm or at room temperature with plain yoghurt, whipped cream and berries. Prunes:1 cup pitted prunes 1 cup boiling water 1/2 teaspoon baking soda Cake: spray oil 150g dark chocolate, chopped 1/2 cup dark cocoa powder 1 cup low-fat plain yoghurt 3/4 cup GF flour 70g ground almonds

GF Prune & Chocolate Brownie

Gluten-Free Orange Macaroons

1/4 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon vanilla essence 5 medium eggs, separated 3/4 cup white sugar Place the prunes in a saucepan with the water and bring to the boil. Simmer for 3-4 minutes, until the prunes are soft. Stir in the baking soda. Cool a little. Purée until smooth. Then cool completely. Preheat the oven to 170°C. Line the base of a round 25cm springform baking pan with baking paper. Spray the base and sides with oil. Place the chocolate in a large microwave-proof bowl. Microwave on high in 30-second bursts, until almost melted. Stir until smooth. Add the purée, cocoa powder, yoghurt, GF flour, almonds, salt, vanilla and egg yolks. Mix well. Whip the egg whites in a bowl until fluffy. Gradually add the sugar, beating until stiff peaks form. Fold into the chocolate mixture until just combined. Pour into the prepared cake pan. Bake for 40-50 minutes, or until a thin skewer inserted in the centre comes out clean. Cool for 10 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Preheat the oven to 140°C. Lightly grease an oven tray and line with baking paper. Beat the egg whites to a stiff foam. Gradually beat in the sugar until shiny and thick. Fold in the coconut and orange rind. Take tablespoons of the mixture and place on the prepared tray. Bake for about 25 minutes or until lightly golden. Cool on a wire rack. Makes about 26.

Gluten-Free Orange Macaroons 2 egg whites 3/4 cup caster sugar 2 cups desiccated coconut 1 tablespoon finely grated orange rind

Sriracha Stuffed Eggs A healthy gluten-free finger food. Crisp-fried shallots are available in the international aisle of most supermarkets. Sriracha is a spicy chilli sauce often used in Asian dishes. 6 large eggs, hard-boiled 4 tablespoons mayonnaise 1 1/2 teaspoons sriracha or to taste freshly ground salt and pepper to taste Topping: 1 teaspoon whole cumin seeds 1-2 tablespoons fried shallots 12 sprigs coriander 12 thin slices red chilli Slice the eggs in half lengthwise. Carefully scoop out the yolks into a small bowl. Add the mayonnaise and mash with a fork until smooth. Add the sriracha and seasonings and mix well. Spoon or pipe the mixture into the white shells. Carefully sprinkle the cumin seeds over the filling. Top with the shallots, coriander and chilli. Makes 12.

NEW NEW LISTING LISTING

SELL

YOUR HOUSE

ASK YOUR LOCAL REAL ESTATE AGENT ABOUT ADVERTISING YOUR PROPERTY IN THE KING COUNTRY NEWS! Reaching 21,600 local readers evey week.

Te William Street Te Kuiti Kuiti 11 11 William Street An An opportunity opportunity to to flip, flip, invest invest or reside or reside

To be sold by Tender closing 1pm, Wednesday 20th To be be sold sold by by Tender closing closing 1pm, 1pm, Wednesday Wednesday 20th 20th To May 2026 (willTender not be sold prior) at Bayleys Hamilton, May 2026 (will be May 2026Street, (will not not be sold sold prior) prior) at at Bayleys Bayleys Hamilton, Hamilton, 96 Ulster Whitiora. 96 96 Ulster Ulster Street, Street, Whitiora. Whitiora. A 100sqm brick dwelling, accompanied by a double A 100sqm brick dwelling, accompanied by a A 100sqm dwelling, accompanied by a a double double garage andbrick separate outdoor room, set on garage and and separate separate outdoor outdoor room, room, set set on on a a garage generous sized flat section 1232sqm (more or less) generous sized sized flat flat section section 1232sqm 1232sqm (more (more or or less) less) generous No vendor warranties. Buyers are advised to conduct No vendor vendor warranties. warranties. Buyers Buyers are are advised advised to to conduct conduct No their own due diligence. their own own due due diligence. diligence. their

bayleys.co.nz/2315876 bayleys.co.nz/2315876

1,232 1,232 sqm sqm sqm

2 2

Tender (will not be sold prior) Tender (will be prior) Tender (will not not be sold sold prior)2026 Closing 1pm, Wed 3 Jun Closing 1pm, 1pm, Wed Wed 3 3 Jun Jun 2026 2026 Closing View by appointment View by appointment View by appointment Antonia Jongmans 027 656 1506 Antonia Jongmans Jongmans 027 027 656 656 1506 1506 Antonia antonia.jongmans@bayleys.co.nz antonia.jongmans@bayleys.co.nz antonia.jongmans@bayleys.co.nz SUCCESS REALTY LIMITED, BAYLEYS, LICENSED REAA 2008 SUCCESS REALTY REALTY LIMITED, LIMITED, BAYLEYS, BAYLEYS, LICENSED LICENSED REAA REAA 2008 2008 SUCCESS

14 |

King Country News THURSDAY JUNE 11, 2026

Mary Tapu

Te Kuiti 40 Eketone Street

Contemporary comfort and space to grow

Spacious 220m2 home offering peace, privacy, and modern comfort across two levels. A sheltered recessed entrance welcomes you inside, where a light-filled foyer leads to the main living area above. The open-plan kitchen and dining space features modern appliances, generous storage, and a large island, flowing through to a spacious lounge with expansive windows framing views of the surrounding hills and countryside. Upstairs also includes five generous bedrooms and a contemporary family bathroom, with soft neutral tones enhancing the natural light throughout. Downstairs offers a laundry, additional rooms and separate toilet.

For Sale Buyers $625,000+ View By appointment Web pb.co.nz/TEU227921

Te Kuiti 7 Fabia Factory Lane

Spacious section, timeless appeal

Modern home - live in or rent out!

Positioned on a generous 1012m2 flat section, this charming 1910s home offers space, character, and comfortable modern living. With a 100m2 floor area, it features three bedrooms, a well-appointed bathroom, and a light-filled living area enhanced by high ceilings and tasteful updates.

Built in 2020, this modern three-bedroom, two-bathroom home offers the perfect combination of comfort, convenience, and lowmaintenance living on Fabia Factory Lane. Whether you're searching for a family home or a smart investment opportunity, this property is well worth your attention.

Mary Tapu M 027 474 9869

For Sale Buyers $410,000+ View By appointment Web pb.co.nz/TEU226913

Mary Tapu M 027 474 9869

Te Kuiti 16 View Road

Te Kuiti 4 George Street

Te Kuiti 13 Butler Street

Piopio 9 Kuku Street

Mary Tapu M 027 474 9869

For Sale Buyers $550,000+ View By appointment Web pb.co.nz/TEU227263 2

Te Kuiti 30 Awakino Road Price Reduced

Three bedroom, weatherboard home

Snap up Butler Street value

Kuku Street charm with rural views

At home on Awakino

This charming three bedroom weatherboard, house is nestled among native trees, providing a serene backdrop to your daily life. The property offers excellent potential for expansion or additional income, with extra outbuildings that could be converted into a self-contained unit or a hobby room.

Set on a 654m2 sloping freehold section, this 100m2, 1960 home offers comfortable living with plenty of potential to add value. The combined kitchen, dining and lounge area creates a warm central hub along with an attached deck - an ideal spot for enjoying your morning coffee or hosting friends. Three bedrooms and a single bathroom keep things practical.

Welcome to 9 Kuku Street - a 120m2, three-bedroom brick home built in 1963, offering timeless appeal and a tranquil setting. Set on an expansive 820m2 flat section, this well-maintained property combines classic features with practical living in a quiet cul-de-sac. Elevated and north-facing, the home enjoys an abundance of natural light and sunshine throughout the day.

Discover comfort, space and convenience at 30 Awakino Road, Te Kuiti. Set on a 1,234m2 sloping freehold section, this well-loved 240m2 home, built in 1966. Step inside to a functional and inviting layout where the kitchen, dining and living areas are all combined, creating a warm, family-friendly hub for daily life.

For Sale $420,000 View By appointment Web pb.co.nz/TEU198065 3

Mary Tapu M 027 474 9869

For Sale $420,000 View By appointment Web pb.co.nz/TEU209571 3

Mary Tapu M 027 474 9869

For Sale $339,000 View By appointment Web pb.co.nz/TEU205085 3

Mary Tapu M 027 474 9869

For Sale $575,000 View By appointment Web pb.co.nz/TEU217411 4

Benneydale 14 Ellis Road

Piopio 4 Kuku Street

Te Kuiti 4 Carroll Street

Te Kuiti 14A Tawa Street

Easy living on Ellis

Space, sun and serenity

Carroll Street classic

Tucked away and convenient

Set on a 809m2 flat, freehold section, this character-filled 1940s home offers comfort, practicality, and the convenience of being close to the local school and shops. Step inside the 85m2 residence and discover three bedrooms, a warm and welcoming open-plan layout combining the kitchen, dining, and lounge area - perfect for modern living.

Set on a generous 959m2 freehold section, this home offers comfort, space and lovely rural views in the heart of Piopio. Featuring three bedrooms and one bathroom, this property is ideal for families, firsthome buyers or investors. The light-filled combined lounge and dining area enjoys large windows that capture the sun and peaceful outlook.

Welcome to this delightful opportunity nestled on a spacious 911m2, flat section with street frontage - ideal for families, investors, or those looking for future potential. This 84m2 home, built in 1947, offers classic charm and functional living. Inside, you'll find two bedrooms, a cozy living area, and a well-equipped kitchen - making it the perfect canvas for modern updates.

Positioned neatly off the street, 14A Tawa Street offers a practical and private living option in a convenient Te Kuiti location. This easycare property is ideal for first-home buyers, downsizers, or investors looking for a smart addition to their portfolio. The home enjoys a functional layout with good natural light and a low-maintenance section, making day-to-day living simple.

For Sale $380,000 View By appointment Web pb.co.nz/TEU207390 3

Mary Tapu M 027 474 9869

For Sale Buyers $349,000+ View By appointment Web pb.co.nz/TEU228139 3

Mary Tapu M 027 474 9869

For Sale $320,000 View By appointment Web pb.co.nz/TEU200137 2

Mary Tapu M 027 474 9869

For Sale $365,000 View By appointment Web pb.co.nz/TEU223931 3

Mary Tapu M 027 474 9869

Proud to be here 131 Rora Street, Te Kuiti, 3910 07 878 8266 tekuiti@pb.co.nz Property Brokers Ltd Licensed REAA 2008 Property Brokers Ltd Licensed REAA 2008 Q029452

Property Brokers Ltd Licensed REAA 2008 |

Proud to be here

King Country News | 15

THURSDAY JUNE 11, 2026

New Listing

Final Notice

Open Home

DEADLINE SALE

FOR SALE

This three bedroom home offers good bones and potential for renovation. Phone Sam or Buzz.

Exceptional property offering the complete package with luxury and income potential. Ph Buzz or Sam.

Beautifully renovated and immaculately presented, this stylish three bedroom home offers modern comfort and relaxed living. Phone Buzz or Sam.

This three bedroom character home offers convenience and charm for buyers with an eye for potential. Phone Lorraine.

41 Mountain View Road, Ōtorohanga

3 & 5 Tonga Street, Te Kūiti

3 Kawana Street, Piopio

56 Hinewai Street, Ōtorohanga

Deadline Sale Closes 23 June 2026 at 1.00pm at Ray White Otorohanga, unless sold prior

Deadline Sale Closes 16 June 2026 at 1.00pm at Ray White Te Kuiti, unless sold prior

For Sale $499,000

For Sale $495,000

View Sunday 14 June, 10.00 - 10.30am rwotorohanga.co.nz/OTO30400

View Sunday 14 June, 11.15 - 11.45am rwtekuiti.co.nz/TEK30360

View Saturday 13 June, 10.00 - 10.30am rwtekuiti.co.nz/TEK30359

View Sunday 14 June, 11.45am - 12.15pm rwotorohanga.co.nz/OTO30374

FOR SALE

Tucked away privately behind other dwellings, this spacious two bedroom unit with a flat section, also offers access to amenities. Phone Lorraine.

Tucked away up a right of way, on a 994sqm (approx) flat section, this home features three bedrooms and a double garage. Phone Sam or Buzz.

This lifestyle property features open plan spaces that flow seamlessly to a sun soaked patio. Phone Sam or Buzz.

Rosetown Realty Ltd Licensed REAA2008

Open Home

53 Hinewai Street, Ōtorohanga

28 Te Kawa Street, Ōtorohanga

65 Hinewai Street, Ōtorohanga

21A Blucks Road, Ōtorohanga

For Sale $399,000 REDUCED

For Sale $530,000

Three bedrooms, a spacious living area, expansive backyard, separate single bay garage and an additional double garage and carport. A short walk to the local domain and netball courts. Phone Sam or John.

View Sunday 14 June, 11.00 - 11.30am rwotorohanga.co.nz/OTO30364

rwotorohanga.co.nz/OTO30387

rwotorohanga.co.nz/OTO30395

rwotorohanga.co.nz/OTO30394

FOR SALE

This elevated and cosy, three bedroom, two bathroom home is the perfect country escape. Fully insulated and has outstanding views of the valley. Ph Lorraine.

A beautifully preserved 1900's villa featuring native timber ceiling and floors, sash windows and bullnose verandah. On Maori lease land. Phone Lorraine.

2.8ha (approx) lifestyle block with mountain views, a three bay implement shed and adjoining cattle yards are in place. Town water, sewage and power at the boundary with minimal limitations. Ph John or Sam.

Rosetown Realty Ltd Licensed REAA2008

593 Waitomo Valley Road, Ōtorohanga

For Sale By Negotiation

Rosetown Realty Ltd Licensed REAA2008

5 Ranfurly Street, Ōtorohanga

Rosetown Realty Ltd Licensed REAA2008

For Sale $799,000

Rosetown Realty Ltd Licensed REAA2008

7 Maniapoto Street, Ōtorohanga

95 Mountain View Road, Ōtorohanga

For Sale $795,000

For Sale $195,000 REDUCED

With strong exposure, excellent accessibility, and versatile commercial space, this is a solid opportunity for investors seeking a central township asset. Phone John or Sam. For Sale $395,000 + GST (if any)

For Sale $434,000 + GST (if any)

rwotorohanga.co.nz/OTO30370

rwotorohanga.co.nz/OTO30286

rwotorohanga.co.nz/OTO30391

rwotorohanga.co.nz/OTO30328

FOR SALE

An executive five bedroom residence including a separate double garage complex, an enormous 1000sqm (approx) shed and approx 12.43 hectares of land. Phone Buzz or Sam.

This versatile home offers generous space across two levels with five bedrooms, two bathrooms, double garage, separate workshop. Ph Buzz or Sam.

A well maintained three bedroom home. A fantastic opportunity for downsizers or investors. Phone Buzz or Sam.

in a semi-rural locality sits this executive, three bedroom plus office, brick home with expansive rural vistas, only minutes from Te Kuiti CBD. Phone Buzz.

Rosetown Realty Ltd Licensed REAA2008

1500 State Highway 3, Te Kuiti

Rosetown Realty Ltd Licensed REAA2008

51 Ward Street, Te Kūiti

Rosetown Realty Ltd Licensed REAA2008

9 Ngatai Street, Te Kūiti

35a Rangitoto Road, Te Kūiti

For Sale $579,000 REDUCED

For Sale $369,000 REDUCED

For Sale $835,000

rwtekuiti.co.nz/TEK30357

rwtekuiti.co.nz/TEK30346

rwtekuiti.co.nz/TEK30343

rwtekuiti.co.nz/TEK30284

FOR SALE

A private location with park like grounds and a boat ramp directly into the tidal river. With a two bedroom home and a self-contained sleepout, this 1.55ha approx property allows many options. Ph Julie.

Maori Lease Land. Terrific views over the harbour and boat ramp, elevated, two bedrooms plus sleepout, sunroom, open plan living. Phone Julie.

Maori Lease Land. Great views over the Harbour and beyond. Three bedrooms, decking on upper level, single internal access garage. Phone Julie.

For Sale $2,100,000 Rosetown Realty Ltd Licensed REAA2008

4398 Kawhia Road, SH31, Oparau

For Sale $980,000 REDUCED rwotorohanga.co.nz/OTO30267 Rosetown Realty Ltd Licensed REAA2008

Ray White

Rosetown Realty Ltd Licensed REAA2008

153 Kawhia Street, Kawhia

Rosetown Realty Ltd Licensed REAA2008

114 Short Street, Kawhia

5 Kowhainui Rise, Taharoa

For Sale $315,000

For Sale $255,000

On an elevated section, this cute little one bedroom home, along with a free-standing cabin (second bedroom) is set amongst native bush and comes fully furnished, including a kayak Phone Julie.

rwotorohanga.co.nz/OTO30397

rwotorohanga.co.nz/OTO30396

rwotorohanga.co.nz/OTO30376

Rosetown Realty Ltd Licensed REAA2008

For Sale By Negotiation

Rosetown Realty Ltd Licensed REAA2008

John Rothery AREINZ Otorohanga 027 561 0530

Julie Burgess Otorohanga 021 184 1382

Lorraine Fox Otorohanga 027 664 4087

Sam Baggott Otorohanga 027 855 8472

Buzz Linn Te Kuiti 027 496 0053

Noldy Rust Rural/Lifestyle 027 255 3047

Ōtorohanga 07 873 7606 Te Kūiti 07 444 7003 Rosetown Realty Ltd Licensed REAA2008

We bring the whole team

16 |

JUNE 11, 2026 King Country News THURSDAY Sun, 3.45-4.15pm

Monarch Southwest Real Estate Limited Licensed Agent REAA 2008 Sat, 11.00-11.30am

Sat, 10.15-10.45am

LIFESTYLE Te Awamutu Lot 1 Pekanui Road

Ōtorohanga 29 Domain Drive

1.68Ha

For Sale $420,000 View monarchsouthwest.co.nz/OH22852 Kerry Harty & Karen Lennox M 027 294 6215 M 027 559 4468

For Sale $405,000 View monarchsouthwest.co.nz/OH22848 Kerry Harty & Karen Lennox M 027 294 6215 M 027 559 4468

For Sale $495,000 View monarchsouthwest.co.nz/OH22838 Kerry Harty & Karen Lennox M 027 294 6215 M 027 559 4468

Ōtorohanga 11 Main North Road

Ōtorohanga 331 Ouruwhero Road

Ōtorohanga 94 Haerehuka Street

Ōtorohanga 3C William Street

1.478Ha

Ōtorohanga 38A Kakamutu Road

Ōtorohanga 3A William Street

For Sale $640,000 View monarchsouthwest.co.nz/OH22495 Kerry Harty & Karen Lennox M 027 294 6215 M 027 559 4468

For Sale By Negotiation View monarchsouthwest.co.nz/OH22843 Kerry Harty & Karen Lennox M 027 294 6215 M 027 559 4468

For Sale By Negotiation View monarchsouthwest.co.nz/OH22836 Kerry Harty & Karen Lennox M 027 294 6215 M 027 559 4468

For Sale By Negotiation View monarchsouthwest.co.nz/OH22842 Kerry Harty & Karen Lennox M 027 294 6215 M 027 559 4468

Ōtorohanga 5 Fare Vue Lane

Te Kūiti 7 Butler Street

Te Kūiti 17 Esplanade

Te Kūiti 32 Hill Street

3+1

For Sale By Negotiation View monarchsouthwest.co.nz/TA24284 Lindie Howe M 0274 795 773

For Sale $579,000 View monarchsouthwest.co.nz/OH22828 Kerry Harty & Karen Lennox M 027 294 6215 M 027 559 4468

For Sale $295,000 View monarchsouthwest.co.nz/KC6596 Craig McKellar M 0274 572 450

For Sale $405,000 View monarchsouthwest.co.nz/OH22729 Kerry Harty & Karen Lennox M 027 294 6215 M 027 559 4468

For Sale $499,000 View monarchsouthwest.co.nz/TA24274 Lindie Howe M 0274 795 773

Sun, 11.00-11.30am

Te Kūiti 6 George Street

Te Kūiti 16A Edward Street

Benneydale 6 Gannon Street

COASTAL Kawhia Lots 1/2/3/4 Brown Road

5.61Ha / 5.43Ha / 16.19Ha / 17.97Ha

For Sale $315,000 View monarchsouthwest.co.nz/KC6594 Craig McKellar M 0274 572 450

For Sale $539,000 View monarchsouthwest.co.nz/OH22839 Kerry Harty & Karen Lennox M 027 294 6215 M 027 559 4468

For Sale Tender closes Fri 19 June, 1pm (USP) View monarchsouthwest.co.nz/TA24328 Sue Spurdle & Bruce Spurdle M 027 476 8445 M 027 474 4430

For Sale $250,000-$399,000 View monarchsouthwest.co.nz/OH22788-OH22793 Kerry Harty & Karen Lennox M 027 294 6215 M 027 559 4468

LIFESTYLE Oparau 4439 SHWY 31 Kawhia Road

COASTAL Kawhia 418 Hoturoa Street

COASTAL Kawhia 533 Hoturoa Street

COASTAL Kinohaku 103 Brown Road

For Sale $795,000 View monarchsouthwest.co.nz/OH22837 Kerry Harty & Karen Lennox M 027 294 6215 M 027 559 4468

For Sale $620,000 View monarchsouthwest.co.nz/OH22827 Kerry Harty & Karen Lennox M 027 294 6215 M 027 559 4468

For Sale $695,000 View monarchsouthwest.co.nz/OH22834 Kerry Harty & Karen Lennox M 027 294 6215 M 027 559 4468

For Sale Offers over $630,000 View monarchsouthwest.co.nz/OH22832 Kerry Harty & Karen Lennox M 027 294 6215 M 027 559 4468

King Country News | 17

THURSDAY JUNE 11, 2026

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• Tree removals • Pruning & maintenance • Hedge trimming • Stump grinding & more • Site clearance Call Matthew Trott today for a free quote

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027 770 7277

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022 544 6538

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Chivone Prak • 021 211 1176

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7 DAYS FREE PICK-UP Phone Tiger or Ray 0800 668 833 027 433 3338 or 07 823 6500

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18 |

King Country News THURSDAY JUNE 11, 2026

From varroa to Norroa

CARS FOR SALE

2016 Holden Cruze Wagon Small practical, safe wagon in good condition. Perfect first car or workhorse. 1.8L petrol engine, 6-speed automatic, 8.2L/100km. Summit white, alloy wheels, cargo barrier in the boot. Has new WOF, 12-month Rego, and 4 new tyres. Travelled 176,000 km, mostly on open roads, ex-fleet car. Selling as is. $6,000 ono. Phone 027 287 0005

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The varroa mite attaches itself to bees.

By Roy Pilott

A new “gene silencing” product which prevents the varroa bee mite reproducing is likely to become part of New Zealand’s pest arsenal. But it will have to get Environmental Protection Authority and Ministry of Primary Industry blessing first, and that could take a couple of years. Waikato is the second highest honey producing region in New Zealand. University of Victoria professor Phil Lester told The News this week the biopesticide marketed as Norroa in the US is the holy grail of pest control because it only targets the pest. “We all have a can of fly spray and that kills anything – but this is as specific as anything we can imagine,” he said. It was lauded in the US as the first RNA-based treatment for Varroa mites. RNA – Ribonucleic acid – is an acid present in all living cells acts and translates genetic instructions stored in DNA into the proteins that build and operate bodies. Using Norroa, synthetic RNA is delivered in a sugar water pouch which bees consume and deliver as food to larvae within the hive. Varroa mites are exposed when they feed on larvae within the cells. Gene silencing approach works in Norroa’s case by interfering with

Photo: Phil Lester

egg production. The Varroa mite itself survives, but the mite does not reproduce successfully. Tests in two hives – one in the South Island and another near Palmerston North - produced encouraging results – and in an unexpected turn up, bees treated with Norroa lived longer and made more foraging trips. But it will not herald sudden death for the mite. “In our field studies across New Zealand we found that Norroa can keep mite numbers low over time. However, it works best as a preventative or maintenance tool, rather than as a rapid knock‑down treatment when mite popula-tions are already very high,” Lester said. The bee mite – first detected in south Auckland April 2000 - has wreaked havoc in the country’s hives, destroying more than 64,000 colonies last year – and resulting in a 13.6 per cent loss rate in the central North Island. The mite attaches itself to bees and feeds on them. It weakens them and kills colonies. Lead researcher Lester said three PhD students at the university over the last decade had worked on understanding how RNA works to switch of genes. “Gene silencing has only been known about for 25 years – it’s a

normal thing.” The scientist looked at how gene silencing could be applied to pests such as Argentinian ants and wasps – and assisted with research work for US company GreenLight Biosciences which launched Norroa. Asked if the “holy grail” solution could work on a broader range of pests Lester said it would be excellent to have a gene silencing approach as a highly targeted pest control tool for mammals. “…but there is substantial work still required. Mammals have many enzymes and protective barriers that make it very difficult for double stranded RNA to enter cells. In fact, you consume large amounts of RNA every day in a normal diet, and these same barriers mean it has no effect. Lester was also approached for comment by Australian media this week. Varroa mites were discovered there in 2022 in New South Wales, and they have spread to neighbouring states. It triggered an unsuccessful multi-agency plant biosecurity response, at $132 million, the biggest seen in Australia. An estimated 30,000 hives destroyed were during the first year, and wild honeybee populations are expected to be all but wiped out – as has happened in New Zealand.

Bus change review starts By Mary Anne Gill

Complaints about regional bus services in Waipā and the King Country have triggered a review, focusing on safety concerns and inconsistent stopping practices. Last week The News reported passengers were being left confused and inconvenienced after some stops were dropped without clear communication. Regional councillor Liz Stolwyk said she would look into concerns raised by users of services linking Cambridge, Kihikihi-Te Awamutu and the King Country. In Ōhaupō, one stop was removed, resulting in at least one passenger travelling an extra 22

kilometres to complete their journey. The issue has been acknowledged by Waikato Regional Council’s director of regional transport connections Phil King, who said recent changes were sparked by safety concerns raised by drivers. “Drivers advised that they were sometimes placed in difficult positions, including experiencing abuse when they declined to stop at locations, they assessed as unsafe,” King said. He said there had also been inconsistency in how drivers applie d hail and ride practices, and some stopped in places others considered unsafe. To address this, drivers were told to use only stops programmed into their

ticketing machines, which are assessed as safe. The move backfired. “When this approach was implemented, it resulted in a higher number of complaints than anticipated,” King said. It quickly became clear buses had been stopping at far more informal locations than were officially recognised, particularly on routes between Te Awamutu and Hamilton. Within days, drivers reverted to previous practices while the council reviewed the situation. Staff have also contacted affected passengers to gather information about commonly used stopping points. King said the Te Awamutu

route presents additional challenges because much of it runs along a state highway where stopping requires higher safety standards. Work is now underway to assess informal stops and formalise those deemed safe. In the meantime, the council is looking at funding opportunities to improve infrastructure such as signs and designated stops. “This would reduce reliance on hail to ride and provide safer, more visible and accessible stopping locations for passengers,” King said. “We acknowledge that the recent experience has been frustrating for some passengers and that communication could have been clearer.”

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Section 101, Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act 2012

PUBLIC NOTICE

Of an application for On Licence Yellowstone Holdings Limited, a private company having its registered office at 385 Papakura-Clevedon Road, RD2, Papakura, has made application to the Waitomo District Licensing Committee for the renewal of an on-licence in respect of the premises situated at 579 Fullerton Road, Waitomo and known as Roselands Resort. The general nature of the business conducted under the licence is a restaurant including conference and function centre and farm stay accommodation. The days and hours during which alcohol is sold under the licence are: For the restaurant, function rooms and adjacent outdoor dining area: Sunday to Wednesday, from 10am to 11pm; and Thursday to Saturday, from 10am to 12midnight. For the remainder of the premises including the gardens: Monday to Sunday, from 10am to 9pm The application may be inspected during ordinary office hours at the office of the District Licensing Committee at Waitomo District Council, Queen Street, Te Kuiti. Any person who is entitled to object and who wishes to object to the issue of the licence may, not later than 25 working days after the date of the first publication of this notice, file a notice in writing of the objection with the Secretary of the District Licensing Committee at Waitomo District Council, PO Box 404, Te Kuiti 3941. No objection to the renewal of a licence may be made in relation to a matter other than a matter specified in section 131 of the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act 2012. This is the first publication of this notice. Filed on behalf of the applicant by Harkness Henry Lawyers, Private Bag 3077, Hamilton 3240.

ESSENTIAL SERVICES DIRECTORY EMERGENCIES Police, Fire, Ambulance.....................................................................Dial 111 Non emergency police......................................................................Dial 105

POLICE Te Kūiti........................................................................................07 878 1450 Ōtorohanga................................................................................07 873 7399 Piopio..........................................................................................07 877 0490 Benneydale.................................................................................07 878 1370

MEDICAL ROSTER Ōtorohanga................................................................................07 873 8399 Te Kūiti........................................................................................07 878 7878 For all urgent out of hours call...................................................07 878 7878 Unichem Te Kūiti Pharmacy Sat 9.30am - 12.30pm....................07 878 8011 Unichem Ōtorohanga Pharmacy Sat 9am - 12.30pm.................07 873 7294

COMMUNITY SERVICES Citizens Advice Bureau -Ōtorohanga, Te Kūiti and Taumarunui (free legal advice)...................................................................0800 367 222/07 878 7636 Community Mental Health Service.............................................07 878 8767 Emergencies..............................................................................0800 505 050 Counselling Services North King Country Mon - Fri, 9am - 3pm...................................................................07 873 7676 Waitomo Women’s Refuge Helpline.................07 878 5081 or 0800 733 843 Te Kūiti Hospital..........................................................................07 878 7333 Cancer Society supportive care nurse......................................0800 227 744 Te Kūiti Community House .........................................................07 878 5272 NKC Family Support Mon - Fri, 9am - 3pm...................................07 873 6502 Noise Control (Waitomo District Council)...................................07 878 0800 Noise Control (Ōtorohanga District Council)..............................07 878 4000 Ōtorohanga District Council (24 hrs)..........................................07 873 4000 Waitomo District Council (24hrs)............................................0800 932 4357 Victim Support Services.................................027 281 1499 or 0800 842 846

King Country News | 19

THURSDAY JUNE 11, 2026

PUBLIC NOTICES

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Got reject or surplus milk? Call us today on 027 871 5075. We collect within 1.5 hours drive from Te Awamutu.

OTEWA MARAE AGM 2026 Saturday 20 June 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. Minutes of previous AGM 6.Chairperson’s Report 7.Financial Reports 8. Kohanga Reo Report 9. SGM Notification 1 Aug’2026 10. Lunch 11. Charter Review 12. Karakia whakamutunga Please bring a plate for a shared lunch! The AGM will be overseen by an independent Māori Land Court Facilitator, Mr Cameron Hockly. For proxy forms and enquiries E: cameron@hockly.co.nz Financial Reports & Minutes via the Marae Facebook page

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Kawhia R2C1B Trust

Friday 12th June

Saturday 20th June 9.30am (registration) 10am start Venue: Norton Hall, 4 Crawford Street, Nawton, Hamilton Agenda • Karakia / Mihi Timatanga • Chairmans report • Financial Report – 2025 Financial Report • Previous Minutes – Recording for minutes lost, no minutes can be supplied. • Trust Order - Variation of the trust order, amendments made from SGM held September 2024 Elections – One position is available due to a resignation. • General Business • Karakia Whakamutunga

Nau Mai Haere Mai

ATTENTION WHANAU TURITEA MARAE (TUROTO C2B2B4B1)

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

To be held Sunday 5th July 2026, 10am Venue: Hardy Training Centre 170 Hungerford Cres, Hamilton For all enquiries Juanita Morgan

juanita@turiteamarae.co.nz

A/c N & L Neal – Farm Sold 31 Top 18mnth Simm x Strs

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Piopio contact: 07 877 8097 Mokau contact: 06 752 9123

St David's Presbyterian Church Ranfurly St, Ōtorohanga Session clerk Ph Dawn 07 873 8735 Room bookings Ph Claire 027 276 6624

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News | 1

JUNE 4, 2026

We say… Money well spent

The 2026 budget will be remembered as one which, times of financial in was bold enough challenges, to recognise in roading it is better to solve the problem, not the symptoms. That’s why a $350 million in December bypass will replace the arduous climb over Mount Messenger, south of the 36km Awakino Gorge Te Ara o Te 6km, two laneAta will be a road between Ahitītī and Uruti and the project will NZTA oﬃcials inject the thick end of $100 $50 million and seven central North announcement. million Island mayors Taranaki economy. into the – including By Roy Pilott John Robertson In terms of driving time (Waitomo), Rodney Dow it will save handful of (Ōtorohanga) bypass route Mayors and minutes – but a and Mike Pettit politicians value is far Road – was – the Taumatamaire its (Waipā) met celebrated have greater in New Plymouth needed when that it can be the was closed On the Waikato than that. the gorge last week after a $50 million announcement of ‘fixed’.” because of the The $50 million war chest for the gorge, signifi side of bad weather. That road is Awakino Gorge the (Taranaki-King now a winding cant work announcement budget has been completed dilemma. unsealed route Waitomo mayor David Macleod Country) and – but Robertson from heaven. was literally pennies to give motorist a has driven John Robertson (New Plymouth) told The News clear it recently with were among The agenda out - avoiding road in and New Plymouth those to celebrate his reassured that he was further for a meeting announcement. the narrow counterpart after of the the tunnel. the day Brough and Max mayors of used for capitalthe money would be is They underlined Stratford, South Taranaki, works to resolve investing in. convinced it is worth To not resolved gorge issues how critical New Plymouth, it was to have issues with Waitomo, Ōtorohanga, a 14km long “New Zealand State Highway they arrive. – not fix them when between Taranaki and Waipā Transport Agency Ruapehu 3 prone to slipsgorge which is is to do some was called and Waikato “That was No one was to encourage NZTA , “to important open. closed more and is being how to invest options analysis on invest there was some to hear - for and more often Kuriger, who more delighted than the $50 million, because closures in the gorge would be inconsistent come back with me, that concern, including and to like we are with the newscontacted Robertson experiencing with the reasoning I expect this us with this analysis… be used on the money might delivered her as Nicola Willis all” Robertsonare not acceptable at maintenance, two projects. behind those million on to include spending $50 budget. towards the the She told The repair work like put The budget said. resilience, and gorge to improve its In a golden on the gorge being done joy when the News she danced for looking at changed that announcement businesses triangle, route - Taumatamaire announcement a bypass dollars,” he now - many millions are made. options for to “let’s look at the was of said. announcement celebrating the is the option in my investing in Last week view,” he said only Her electorate of confirmed the gorge”. The meeting funding to week. this Robertson’s The News highlighted extend the and she is familiartakes in the gorge Brett Gliddon was with NZTA chief view that a four lane Waikato “The Awakino with every viable and staff, and and turn in expressway called by Brough Gorge has twist south to Piarere. it was slipping for it. been in the wake 100 years. “Anyone who another gorge I am not sure Taranaki is of regularly closure. through the also an National MPs economic Awakino Gorgeuses SH3 powerhouse Barbara Kuriger how important looks north. and this route is knows for local province canEnsuring that continued on get to market page 2 efficiently is a no brainer.

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Services – Sunday 10am

380 Cattle Comprising of: 5 M/A Sire Bulls 30 MT Beef Cows 50 R2yr Exotic x Strs 50 R2yr Dairy Beef x Strs 70 R2yr Beef x Hfrs 50 R2yr Dairy Beef x Hfrs 50 R1yr Simm x & Exotic x Strs 30 R1yr Beef x Strs 6 1yr Autborn Hfrs 40 R1yr Exotic x Hfrs

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2008 Q024572

FRIDAY, 26th June 2026 at Maniapoto House 51 – 53 Taupiri Street, TE KUITI 10am to 1pm Agenda 1. Welcome 2. Chairperson report 3. Chief Executive Officer / Financial report 4. Maniapoto Training Agency report 5. Maniapoto Community Services report 6. Election of Officers 7. Acceptance of new Trustee nominations 8. Appoint Solicitors, Auditors and Accountants 9. Marae Administration Grants 10. General Business 11. Poroporoaki 12. Karakia Whakamutunga

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King Country News THURSDAY JUNE 11, 2026

EXPERTS AUTOMOTIVE DIRECTORY

Prescott Toyota: Service all sorted

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Fairfax Media makes every effort to create advertisements to meet your specific needs. Please note in some instances we may be unable to supply additional proofs due to complexity of the request or dead © This advertisement has been created as a service of Fairfax Media. It cannot be reproduced without permission. If you wish to use this material elsewhere, please contact your advertising consultant. Cha

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