King Country News | May 21, 2026

King Country

A solution to the gorge?

A long and winding road is being cited as the answer to the ongoing closures of the Awakino Gorge.

Waitomo mayor John Robertson reveals in The News today that he and New Plymouth mayor Max Brough negotiated the Taumatamaire Road between

Awakino and State Highway 3, a short distance from Mahoenui.

They plan to team up with other district mayors to put a case to Waka Kotahi – the New Zealand Transport Agency .

The Awakino Gorge is vulnerable to significant slips which take

weeks to clear. The impact on the Awakino business community is crippling, and the alternate route is through Taumarunui and onto the picturesque but challenging Forgotten Highway.

Taumatamaire is not fully sealed – its remoteness is highlighted by

the fact Google Maps hasn’t sent its camera along the road.

But the mayors will argue the value of turning it into a two-lane, sealed bypass road to take traffic when the gorge closes.

• See John Robertson’s column on Page 2.

From power to health

By Dan Tasker

A man raised in King Country and who recently chaired The Lines Company board has been appointed to lead Health New Zealand.

New Health NZ chair Mark Darrow was recruited for the role by Health Minister Simeon Brown on a three-year term beginning this month.

Darrow replaces outgoing chair Lester Levy and steps into the role at a pivotal time as the Government pushes for stronger financial discipline, improved frontline care, and more locally driven decisionmaking.

Despite a career spent at the highest levels of governance across electricity, banking, transport, aviation and health, Darrow still recognises his roots in small-town King Country as central to who he is.

“I grew up in Taumarunui, a small town of around 6000 people in the King Country. That upbringing has stayed with me, it keeps me grounded and shapes how I approach things,” Darrow said.

Darrow lived in Taumarunui for 18 years, he was schooled at St Patrick’s Catholic School and Taumarunui High School and

played in both the Taumarunui and Te Kūiti Operatic Societies’ theatre productions and local bands over the years.

Locals may also remember Darrow from a recent stint with electricity distributor The Lines Company, first as a director in 2015 before he became board chairman the following year until 2021.

Brown said Darrow’s expertise in finance, audit, risk and accountability made him well-suited to guide the organisation through its next phase.

“Mr Darrow is an experienced board chair and director with a strong track record across both the private and public sectors, including health,” Brown said.

“As we look ahead, the board will play a key role in supporting the transition to a nationally-planned, locally and regionally-delivered health system,” he said.

Since officially stepping into the role, Darrow has spent considerable time meeting with Health NZ executives, board members and key Government agencies to understand the strengths and challenges facing the organisation.

“My mandate is to help move us into a more normal governance

environment and create clarity about roles, responsibilities and expectations,” Darrow said.

Among his priorities are strengthening workforce support, improving financial sustainability and modernising technology systems across the health sector.

“The first is our people. We need to provide better support and strengthen how we manage and develop our workforce,” Darrow said.

“The second is financial sustainability. We need a clear plan to manage our resources well and reduce the deficit.

“The third is technology. We have work to do to improve our digital systems and tools,” he said.

Darrow also signalled strong support for devolving more decision-making to local communities and frontline services — a direction likely to resonate in rural areas such as King Country, where access to healthcare has long been a challenge.

“One area I am particularly interested in is how we balance investment between primary and secondary care,” Darrow said.

“We also have a real opportunity to move decision-making closer

Memories of Harrodsville

Ōtorohanga Museum is planning a 40th anniversary of a time when the town took on the might of Harrods in London.

to where care happens. Pushing decisions closer to the frontline enables more timely, locallyinformed choices,” he said.

The experienced director brings an extensive governance résumé to the role. He previously served on the board of Counties Manukau District Health Board and chaired organisations including the Civil Aviation Authority, TSB Bank, Armstrong’s and MTF Finance. He has also held governance roles with NZTA, Auckland Transport, AUT and Inland Revenue.

In an online post, the museum announces “in June 1986… Harrods were threatening a couple of small New Zealand businesses with the same or similar names with costly legal action, demanding that they change their business names”.

The London giant took exception to Henry Harrod putting his name on his Ōtorohanga restaurant.

Ōtorohanga businessman Barry Marx was annoyed enough to suggest that every business in Ōtorohanga changed their name temporarily to Harrods.

“The Ōtorohanga Business Association led by Rocky Climo swung into action. Large Harrods banners were hung over 73 businesses, the Ōtorohanga District Council gave its blessing (it became the Harrodsville District Council) and the whole town and rural community had a laugh,” the post continues.

Now the museum is looking for photos, souvenirs or film footage from the month when Ōtorohanga forced the Mohamed Al-Fayed owned giant to back down.

Time to talk bypass

John Robertson, Mayor of Waitomo

There is no transport link more important to us in the King Country than State Highway 3. The same applies to Taranaki. State Highway 3 is its lifeline to the north.

The most vulnerable stretch of this highway is between Piopio and Uruti. This stretch includes the Awakino Gorge and Mount Messenger. Somewhere between 2500 and 4000 vehicles pass through daily, and some 20 percent of these are truck movements.

Closures caused by slips and rockfall are frequent. The current closure is forecast to end this Saturday night, more than a month after massive slips in the gorge occurred.

The Crown is investing in this stretch of the Highway. Bridges fixed the Awakino Tunnel issue in 2021, a $50 million investment. At the southern end, the $600 million Mt. Messenger bypass is due to open in December.

This leaves the Awakino Gorge as a problem. This stretch of the country’s state highway network is far from resilient. It has had slips for 100 years, something that will continue for another 100 years.

A bypass that provides a reliable, alternative route during closures is needed.

At the end of this month the Mayor of New Plymouth and I are meeting the Chief Executive of NZTA to seek a solution. We will be supported by the other Taranaki,

CONTACTS

maryanne@goodlocal.nz

It has been another busy and productive week for King Country police, with staff responding to a wide range of incidents and making a number of arrests across the district.

During a vehicle stop between Te Kuiti and Ōtorohanga, police identified a driver who was unlicensed and had previously been forbidden from driving.

The vehicle was impounded without incident.

Following a family harm incident in Ōtorohanga, Police located and arrested a 41-year-old man for breaching a protection order.

He has been remanded in custody and is due to appear in court next month.

A 31-year-old man was located and arrested in Ōtorohanga after being wanted for multiple breaches of bail conditions, including curfew violations.

A 32-year-old man presented himself at Te Kuiti Police Station in relation to an incident

Ōtorohanga, Waipa and Ruapehu Mayors.

A bypass solution exists. The Crown could make Waitomo’s Taumatamaire Road into a twolane, sealed bypass road to take traffic when the Gorge closes.

Last week the Mayor of New Plymouth and I drove the road with experienced roading engineers. A bypass route is doable; it would make this important transport link from Piopio to Uruti far more resilient to weather events.

Using bypass routes to mitigate against State Highway closures is not unusual. Totoro Road was made into a bypass route when State Highway 3 collapsed between Mahoenui and Piopio in the 1990’s. It is used today when this section of Highway closes due to incidents.

Decisions like this rest with NZTA.

Our local, regional and national economies cannot function effectively with the recent disruptions. The costs from this current closure have been enormous, many millions of dollars.

The transport industry and those that rely on them have borne this cost. In Mokau, Awakino and Piopio local hospitality and retailers who depend on travellers have been hit severely.

A backup bypass route is urgently needed.

in Hamilton. He was arrested and charged with breaching his protection order.

In Te Kuiti, police followed up with a 39-year-old man who has since been charged in relation to a residential burglary that occurred earlier this year.

Police in Ōtorohanga arrested a 52-yearold man following an incident involving assault and a breach of a protection order.

Police attended a vehicle crash on Phillips Avenue in Ōtorohanga, where a driver travelling at speed failed to stay on the road, resulting in the vehicle rolling. Fortunately, no pedestrians or children were harmed, despite the crash occurring around school pick-up time.

Police also responded to another crash in Ōtorohanga where a female driver collided with another vehicle and continued driving. She was later located and transported to Te Kuiti Hospital. Blood test results for driver are pending.

In Te Kuiti, a 41-year-old woman has

Preparing for walk season

Construction of Oturere Hut on the Tongariro Northern Circuit is on schedule for the start of the Great Walk Season in October, but Mangatepopo Track remains closed following fires in late 2025.

The Tongariro Northern Circuit will operate over summer as an end-to-end tramp between Mangatepopo Road end and Whakapapa Village.

Ngāti Hikairo ki Tongariro and DOC designed the 28-bed hut, designed to improve the experience and safety of walkers on the northern circuit.

“There’s a really solid frame in place now and we’re starting to see the shape of what’s to come,” DOC Principal Ranger Jenny Hayward said.

The Tongariro Northern Circuit will resume its Great Walk status after a hiatus last season, but structures affected by fires late last year which hit the Mangatepopo Track won’t be repaired in time for safe use this summer.

been charged in relation to an historic “obtaining by deception” matter involving the attempted sale of a stolen vehicle earlier in the year.

With cooler weather setting in, we remind drivers to remain vigilant and take extra care on the roads.

This time of year, often sees an increase in crashes on our State Highways due to black ice, particularly on routes heading toward Piopio, Benneydale, and Kāwhia. To help prevent incidents on the road drivers should conduct regular checks on their vehicle, ensuring tyres have sufficient tread, windscreen wipers are working effectively, and windscreen and windows are clean to maintain good visibility in all conditions.

As always, we encourage the community to look out for one another, report suspicious or unlawful activity, and drive safely on our roads.

Briefs…

Trustees retire

Maru Energy Trust is farewelling two of its founding trustees.

Tūrangi’s Sandra and Denis Greenslade were appointed to the not-for-profit trust in 2018, when Maru was established by The Lines Company. Denis, who will not be replaced has opted to retire, while the King Country Energy Trust will appoint a replacement for Sandra Greenslade.

Sew good

Ōtorohanga District Council will host “Sip and Sew workshops in the council chambers and Kāwhia on Sunday. The workshop will show how to make clothes last longer. People are being encouraged to bring their own sewing projects and fabric items to repair, or learn how to make tote bags out of old overalls and feed bags.

Fight booked

Te Awamutu’s Floyd Masson and Hamilton’s David Nyika are poised to square off in Auckland in August, boxing writer Benjamin Watt has reported. The fight between the pair – who are both based in Queenslandwould be an eliminator for the IBF world cruiserweight title.

Something fishy

Native migratory fish have been detected nearly 300 km inland from the Whanganui River mouth. Research conducted in partnership by Ngāti Hāua Iwi Trust and the Department of Conservation, has involved surveying 16 sites through the catchment using methods including environmental DNA analysis. DOC Programme Lead Jane Taylor says finding migratory fish so far inland is a good sign for the awa.

Chemical call

Ōtorohanga and Kāwhia residents are being given an opportunity to get rid of old and unwanted household chemicals and electrical items. Ōtorohanga District Council is running free drop-off events on June 6 for individuals who make bookings. Paint, solvents, oils, household chemicals, pesticides, herbicides, fungicides and insecticides, computers, televisions and cables and whiteware no larger than microwaves will be accepted.

Erina shows the love

By Dan Tasker

Erina Wehi-Barton is as good as gold.

The Te Kūiti wahine recently featured on Seven Sharp’s ‘Good as Gold’ television segment, where people doing outstanding work in their community are nominated to receive $10,000 courtesy of ASB Bank.

Wehi-Barton was caught unawares when Seven Sharp turned up as the Aratika ki Maniapoto Waka Ama Club president was about to get her paddlers on the Awakino water for training.

“Somebody told me the funders were coming to take some photos, and they were going to bring a camera crew, so I thought, ‘Oh, yeah, that’s all good’,” Wehi-Barton said.

“While I was doing the mahi, they bowled into the circle where I was lining up our teams to get out on the water. At first, I was like, ‘You

need to just move out of the way for a little bit, I need to put my people on the water and then we’ll talk, but when he said, ‘Do you know who we are?’, I honestly didn’t know who they were because I don’t watch TV,” she said.

Seven Sharp reporter Michael Holland then introduced himself and revealed the real reason for his visit.

“I’m thinking this is the waka ama group you have worked so, so hard to get up and running. The waka ama group that shows the love you have for your community,” Holland said.

“We have a lovely segment called ASB Good as Gold, and Erina you are absolutely made for it, because it celebrates the good souls who are out there giving and giving and giving to better the lives of those around them.

“There wouldn’t be one person here, young or old, who hasn’t benefitted from your energy and

enthusiasm. So, let’s get to the good bit. Erina, I am thrilled to tell you, you are our latest ASB Good as Gold recipient,” he said.

Clearly impacted by the moment, Wehi-Barton said it was humbling to be recognised but emphasised her commitment to serving those around her and helping them have a better life.

“You don’t do things for recognition, you do things because you love doing it and you want everybody that’s around you to know that they’re loved, looked after them,” Wehi-Barton said.

“I’m really grateful for the people that are in my life, and I think together we do really good things –we move together, we eat together, we cry together and I think that’s the magic in the world and that’s some of the magic that’s missing.

“This mahi is not my mahi, it’s our mahi, and it’s a continuation of the mahi that my aunties, uncles and whanau have done before me.

“Some people don’t have a lot. You see some real struggle in our hapori, but these are my people and without them, there’s no me,” she said.

Wehi-Barton, who works in the environmental space as Go Eco’s pou taiao for Te Rohe Potae, has used some of her $10,000 prize money to purchase paddles to further resource the 80-member waka ama club.

But she is hoping to spend some of the money on herself, with a trip to Japan coming up at the end of the year.

“Some of our school leavers asked if I can go to Japan with them in November, but no other trips away for me, too much mahi to do, but I’m happy doing what I’m doing,” WehiBarton said.

Outside of waka ama, Wehi-Barton is known as her marae’s ‘Mrs FixIt’, she runs educational seminars, drives buses, repairs essential services, while studying toward a PhD in indigenous leadership.

Te Kūiti, you legend!

Do you think we can become the first town in NZ to fully switch to energy-efficient lightbulbs? We’re giving Te Kūiti households up to 15 x FREE LED lightbulbs*.

Waitomo

District Council

Until Thursday 4 June

Thursday 4 June From 5.30pm

Treatment on the doorstep

By Dan Tasker

Locals will now have access to cancer treatment closer to home via an infusion service launching at Te Kūiti Hospital last week.

The new service will provide simple chemotherapy infusions alongside other lower-risk infusion treatments, reducing the need for patients to travel to Waikato Hospital for care.

Initially operating one day a week, the clinic will be able to treat up to two patients per session while staff capability and local processes continue to develop.

Health Minister Simeon Brown said the move marked a major milestone for rural healthcare in the region.

“This is a significant step forward for Te Kūiti and surrounding rural communities, making it easier for patients to receive cancer treatment locally rather than travelling to Waikato Hospital in Hamilton,” Brown said.

“Cancer treatment can be physically and emotionally challenging. Reducing the need for long-distance travel means patients can spend more time at home, closer to their families and support networks, while still

receiving safe, quality care.”

Waitomo mayor John Robertson said the development would make a meaningful difference for local residents.

“I welcome this additional service for locals. It makes sense for Te Whatu Ora to increase access for cancer treatment at Te Kūiti Hospital. Great news for us locally,” he said.

The service will be delivered by a certified chemotherapy nurse. A second staff member is working toward certification. During the establishment phase, an experienced Waikato clinician will also provide on-site support to ensure patients receive highquality care.

Brown said the initiative formed part of the

Government’s wider push to improve access to cancer treatment across regional New Zealand.

“Around 13,000 additional cancer infusions are expected to be delivered nationwide in 2025/26 – a 12 percent increase on previous volumes,” Brown said.

“To support this, the Government is delivering 14 new infusion centres and

expanding a further 14 sites across the country,” he said.

Brown said Te Kūiti Hospital would continue building its infusion capability over time to meet local demand.

“For King Country families, this means more treatment delivered locally, in a familiar environment, and closer to the people who matter most throughout

Cafe Capers At Ōtorohanga College’s

The B-H1ve Café

By Jessica Buckley

Head of Technology and Hospitality teacher Gwen Buckley has been pursuing a student-operated, café-style environment for several years. This has now become a reality with the addition of a successful, energetic space in a converted classroom - an environment intended to cultivate hardworking, experienced students who are confident enough to find hospitality jobs wherever life takes them. This is achieved by taking students out of their comfort zone - having them cook all sorts of café delicacies, serve customers, operate EFTPOS machines and cash tills and use practiced barista skills to produce quality coffees and hot chocolate. These technical skills, such as steaming milk and producing quality-controlled espresso shots, provide the knowledge necessary to help them stand out in job opportunities and on a CV.

The B-H1ve Café is run twice a week during the thirty-minute interval. It is operated by students who work at allocated

their cancer journey,” he said.

The Government’s 2024 budget included a $210 million investment aimed at strengthening cancer treatment capacity nationwide, including facility upgrades, equipment purchases and workforce development following Pharmac’s medicines investment.

stations and prepare the baking in anticipation of these days. Although the window of time to sell baked goods and barista drinks is small, an astounding number of students come prepared for their two-dollar hot chocolate or sneaky snack to carry them through until lunchtime. While in service, The B-H1ve Café feels like a welcoming community gathering from a customer perspective, offering smiles and sweet treats. From a worker’s perspective, however, it is opportunity a er opportunity - covering every job from setup to customer communication and cleaning. Everyone gives everything a go, including new equipment like the real-fruit ice cream machine.

From the perspective of a student who has worked in The B-H1ve Café for quite some time, the experience has been tremendously helpful for gaining confidence in social situations and practicing skills that require technical knowhow. The B-H1ve Café is a unique learning environment

because it is practical and fast-paced. It offers visual and oral styles of learning, students learn by watching classmates and teachers perform tasks while being told the purpose. There are also many visual aids throughout The B-H1ve Café to help students understand the breakdown of steps for different coffees or job descriptions. Ultimately, The B-H1ve Café’s main learning style is kinesthetic. Weekly practice and repeated, structured learning are great tools for refining skills, as students know what is expected and feel comfortable taking initiative - every student’s needs and learning styles are accounted for when joining The B-H1ve Café.

The B-H1ve Café is rich with possibilities that I am sure will be useful to every student in their future. When upcoming public events occur at Ōtorohanga College, such as sports days, the public will be able to see the positive aspects of this wonderful The B-H1ve Café located in B1.

News Violins and white horses

The signposting patrol of the Auckland Automobile Association made a tour of the King County and in addition to ordinary maintenance work, direction and danger signposts were erected and roads inspected and sketched.

The patrol observed that the touring route from Awakino to Kawhia and Raglan passed through beautiful scenery and crossed five unbridged streams. In fine weather it promised to be quite a good trip for a motorist experienced in backcountry conditions.

When the wellknown Ōtorohanga author of ‘Where the White Man Treads’, William Baucke, died his effects went to the local auction mart for disposal. Among his personal belongings was an apparently plain and very old violin.

The violin was bought by a local solicitor for the sum of £3, and careful examination disclosed the name Antonio Stradivarius engraved on the

inside. The violin had been purchased in Bavaria 85 years previously by Mr Baucke’s father, who later left Bavaria as a Moravian missionary for the Chatham Islands where he lived the rest of his life. The violin had been in several Ōtorohanga homes, but no one suspected that the modest looking instrument had a possible commercial value of £2500.

The question of whether the Te Kūiti Hospital should be made available for minor surgical cases was discussed by the Waikato Hospital Board. The admission of patients to the hospital was limited to urgent and acute cases, including accidents and maternity cases. The hospital was almost continuously filled by these cases, and the

nursing staff could barely cope. To admit tonsil and adenoid cases would involve an increased nursing staff, increased accommodation and an increase in payment to Te Kūiti doctors. The train fare to Hamilton hospital was the only extra cost to patients presently. There were definite medical reasons against admitting tonsil cases to Te Kūiti and without reorganising the present staff it was not recommended to take on extra patients.

Counting the number of white horses between New Plymouth and Wellington, and New Plymouth and Auckland was a popular pastime with those undertaking these journeys. A statistically minded traveller recorded exactly

100 between New Plymouth and Auckland, and 78 on the Wellington journey. This pastime, however, was not recommended. A New Plymouth party enroute to Auckland had just counted the 13th white horse when their car somersaulted down

a bank near Piopio. The Hangatiki Women’s Institute celebrated their first birthday with a most enjoyable social afternoon held at the local hall. Much fun was had from games, competitions and charades. A clever recitation was

AGE OF REASON

Signs of the times

By Richard Steele

Every time you turn around these days, somewhere, someone is being caught doing something they shouldn’t be doing. Age and gender are irrelevant, social status doesn’t matter, and we, the newspaper readers and taxpayers shrug our broad shoulders, and gaze wistfully, back on times when our morals were better.

Or were they?

What’s happening to our country, when the man in charge of one of the bastions of our society, the police force , admits using work devices to search child exploitation and bestiality images?

He had to resign on a pension and have some home detention. You and I, dear reader, might have been locked away.

Then there is the New Zealander of the Year, one of the golden boys of the new commercial computer world we find ourselves, being drawn into, reluctantly in our case, returning the award, saying he completely rejected allegations of unwanted sexual contact made by three women.

People, often very good people I’m sure, who run successful restaurants, in that highly competitive market, in which second best is nowhere, have also come unstuck, when they have discovered, surprisingly, that screaming at your staff could leave one open to the downstream consequences. And that high pressure ranting , and or alcohol

given by Mrs Sear, and a group of girls gave a very pleasing exhibition of the Spring Dance. A sumptuous afternoon tea was served and the cake, decorated with a wee flag for each member, was cut by the president amid cheers.

driven groping of female staffs’ more personal places is not the way forward for one of the best restaurants in the country.

Who would have thought?

The list could go on and should, especially if you happen to be a victim, and I’m not being wise, because I don’t know the answers.

I suppose in part it’s because bullies have always been part of society, way back in the animal kingdom, long before we climbed down out of the trees.

We are in a world where the Russian president thinks it’s okay to waste tens of thousands of lives, and trillions of dollars’ worth of infrastructure to take over neighbouring Ukraine because he wants to.

A world where the president of the United States thinks it’s fair to overrun Venezuela, or to blow Iran to bits, and to stuff up the world’s oil supply chain, because he thought it was a great idea at the time.

These small, but massive examples, might make a bit of pornography or a bit of groping and swearing at the staff seem relatively minor.

Except that they are not minor at all. Are they simply a 2026 view of how far we have become as a society, and of how little we have progressed?

Scott Mouat (B.Chiro)

Alana Sherman (B.Chiro) Chiropractor

Look south, says councillor

An Ōtorohanga district councillor has suggested establishing a King Country Unitary Council.

Tennille Kete (Rangiatea Māori Ward) announced on the eve of closed discussions on Tuesday involving Ōtorohanga and Waitomo councils around government prompted boundary reforms that if northern options were not interested in combining, “the conversations naturally starts moving south”.

The government has made local government reform – last achieved in major form in 1989 – a priority and has indicated if councils don’t make decisions, it will.

Waitomo mayor John Robertson has consistently pushed for his council and Ōtorohanga to team up, but to date he has not found the northern neighbour as enthusiastic.

The government’s push has effectively put mergers on a must-do list, and the three tier administration of central, regional and district councils could be flattened to two.

Kete, in an online post which generated considerable thoughtful debate said “I’m envisioning a wider King Country regional model could potentially include Ōtorohanga, Waitomo, Kāwhia, Aotea, Piopio, Benneydale, Mokau, Taumarunui, National Park, surrounding rural communities and potentially parts of Ruapehu and south Taupō rural areas”.

Observes have already noted that the boundaries of the country’s rugby unions could mimic the final outcomes.

Kete suggested her proposed boundaries would be strong enough to manage both regional council functions and normal district

And she suggested the fact that it would not be a super city or Hamilton-led would be a positive.

She described it as a rural regional unitary built for rural communities.

She said that type of structure may become more attractive to Government because it would spread infrastructure costs, have financial sustainability, reduces duplication, builds stronger staffing capability and would handle emergency management.

“The Marlborough model has already shown New Zealand that rural unitaries can work. The question now is whether Ōtorohanga shapes its own future or waits for government to shape it for us,” she wrote.

Show and tell…

Waipā’s third Home and Leisure Show at Karapiro has been branded another success.

Thousands of people spent three days browsing the Sir Don Rowlands centre where more than 70 stalls had been set up.

For St Kilda Café and Bistro owner Vikram Singh it was a busy three days spent with a smile on his face.

At this month’s Waikato Hospitality Awards St Kilda placed third in the restaurant category – which was won by another Cambridge restaurant, Alpino. To cap that off, St Kilda also won the people’s choice award.

Singh purchased the business last August and has striven to increase its appeal – and is proud to see its rating improve on the Tripadvisor app.

Upstairs, Tamahere Lions were on deck showing off the community E-Trike they have donated to Riverside Adventures.

The E-Trike is available for use - free - the Te Awa River Ride, making the ride accessible to people who might not otherwise be able to use it.

Back down stars it was impossible to walk past the Zendah Candle stall without noticing the aromas from what appeared to be incredible decorative cocktails.

Natalie Chapple explain the candles are made to burn – but they are usually used as decorations.

Stall holders reported a steady stream of enquiries throughout the three days.

Good Local Media publisher David Mackenzie said he was delighted that in the current economic climate the show still drew in the crowds.

“What struck me was that people were happy… the feedback from both exhibitors and the public was positive – and it helped that the weather was brilliant,” he said.

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To book your tour, call Juliet on 07 444 4023

The four cornerstones of a warm winter home

After a few seasonal stops and starts, winter seems to have finally arrived, complete with chilly mornings and noticeably less heat in With temperatures set to stay low over the next few months, it is important that you take steps to make sure you and your family stay healthy and comfortable. There are several key components to making that work – one of the most important is maintaining a warm, safe, dry and healthy

Homes need to be well-insulated, free of damp and warmed to a level that keeps

into whatever heat source you choose only to have all that lovely warmth drift out through gaps in the walls, windows, ceiling or floors, which makes it crucial to ensure that every unwanted escape hole is well sealed before spending up large elsewhere.

in terms of their health. It is worth looking into ways you can eliminate damp in your home – some can be really easy fixes.

Ventilation:

energy bills to budget-breaking heights. It comes down to a four-pronged approach ventilation and affordable, manageable heating. Here’s a quick breakdown …

with ways to keep your environment warm and healthy. Some older homes are known to be poorly-ventilated, while some modern homes can feel almost hermetically sealed. Finding a balance is essential, one where you can maintain a good air quality while removing the moisture we all generate in our

and ventilated home can still be a cold one without good heating. It’s about doing your research, working out your options, finding a balance and making the right decision for

Winter Warmth Tips and tricks on keeping cosy as temperatures fall

There are many tips available, either via heating experts or numerous online resources, that will help you maintain a snug, warm home throughout the chilly winter months ahead, and some of them are simply good, common sense.

• An obvious one is to have had your home and heating or ducting appliances checked out before the deep cold sets in.

• Check your ceiling bats, plug areas through which heat can escape (even masking tape over leaky spots can work), get technicians in to service your heat pump and ventilation units, make sure your hot water cylinder is in tip-top condition, invest in good quality thermal curtains, and perhaps buy a few of those cute draft-blocking door snakes to lay down and brighten your space. Even rolled up towels can do the trick there.

• You can also preserve warmth in a room by simply closing doors to the rest of the house.

• Clean windows won’t necessarily stop heat leaking out, but they will ensure you maximise the level of sunlight that can come in and warm your home during the day. Likewise, removing dust and grime from bulbs inside means they will remain as bright as possible, potentially saving you from using more electricity than is necessary.

• Once you’ve checked those out, think

about the little things you can do each day to direct your hard-earned cash into maximising the warmth and e ciency of your home.

• Keep your power bills down and your capacity for heating up by having shorter showers, for example. Apply the egg-timer technique for family members who tend to linger in there too long!

• Ask the experts about the best, most e cient way to use your heating appliances – know your ideal room temperature and use timers if that is a better option.

• If you have a log re, make sure all the ue systems are working well and ensure the wood you have gathered in preparation for winter is dry. Burning wet wood brings its own health hazards.

• Close curtains earlier than you would do in summer – that helps trap any heat that may have come in as sunlight during the day. Consider swapping out incandescent bulbs for LED ones for more cost e ciency, and consider installing mobile dehumidi ers in areas where you notice more moisture or condensation.

• Keeping warm isn’t all about technology. There are some simple techniques that your grandparents used – adding extra layers of clothing, having rugs at the ready to wrap yourself in, lling the old hot water bottle for a night of good viewing.

Winter can be delightful. You just have to be well prepared and think outside the square.

Waitete leave it late again

By Dan Tasker

Another last gasp win has put Waitete’s women on a collision course with Taupiri in a top-ofthe-table shoot-out in a few weeks time.

For the third week in a row, Waitete left it to the dying moments to get the job done 24-22 against United Matamata Sports, thanks to a 72nd-minute try to number eight Amber Karipa and the important conversion slotted by fullback Chanelle Macrae.

But they had to fight for it in much the same way as they did against Kihikihi the week before, keeping Matamata scoreless in the second half to claw a 22-10 halftime deficit back inch by inch.

Silly mistakes cost Waitete dearly, but hopes of mounting a comeback was restored when prop Charlie Hill crashed over for her first try in blue early in the second half to see Waitete trail 22-17.

Waitete had Matamata under the pump for large parts of the second half but couldn’t make them pay until Karipa dotted down for her second try of the match, Macrae’s conversion sealing Waitete’s unbeaten record after four rounds.

The win sees Waitete in second place (19) behind the other unbeaten team in the Waikato Women’s Championship Taupiri (20), who they are set to face-off

against in round six scheduled for May 30, but it may potentially be played on May 29 because of the long King’s Birthday weekend. Saturday’s assignment against the fifth-placed Morrinsville at Campbell Park poses another tricky game, as Waitete negotiate a potential banana-skin game away from home.

In the King Country premier men’s club competition, Waitomo had their best showing in a while, but ultimately still fell short to go down 38-14 against Piopio at the Waitomo Domain on Saturday.

Tries to Phil Lord and Gareth Owen kept Waitomo in touch with Piopio for most of the game, but the boys in green-and-gold eventually got the job done thanks to tries to Chaye Havea, Jack Ormsby, Paiaka Muraahi, Isaac Buckman, Ceiran Rogers and captain Nathan Crooks.

Waitete had high hopes of getting one back against Taumarunui Districts after dropping a winnable match in week one against the 2024 champs, but once again they came up short in a tightly-fought 12-7 loss in Taumarunui.

Former Bush United midfielder David Tutaki scored Waitete’s only try of the game, while Semesa Bainivalu and Kolinio Vukialau scored for Districts.

It was an important match in the scheme of things with the two

teams sitting in second and third position on the ladder, so a win would go along way to securing a home semi-final on July 4.

Districts (33) once again lead the competition to overtake the unbeaten Taupō Marist (32) who

had the bye, Waitete (26) continue to hold third with Taupō Sports (22) rounding out the top four following their comprehensive 69-22 win over Taumarunui Eels in Taupō.

In Saturday’s week-nine action,

Piopio host the Taumarunui Eels in a crucial game for both side’s top-four ambitions, Waitomo take on Waitete at the Waitomo Domain while Taupō Marist and Taupō Sports go head-to-head in Taupō.

Ōto wāhine dominant

By Jesse Wood

Ōtorohanga senior rugby sides registered two wins in front of home supporters at Island Reserve on Saturday.

Hooker Joel Smyth scored a brace of tries in Ōtorohanga Sports’ premier gold’s win against United Matamata Sports. Ōtorohanga won 30-19.

Fullback Jake Laurent, winger Josaia Tuikubulau and lock Turuva Lumelume rounded out the fivepointers in the five tries to three victory.

First five-eighth and captain Manaaki Rewi-Wetini added a conversion and a penalty goal off the kicking tee.

In the earlier match, the Ōtorohanga Sports premier B team were beaten 24-7 by United Matamata Sports B.Reserve Isoa Dobui was the only try scorer for the blues, adding to his impressive season. Number 10 Zach Coles

converted Dobui’s try.

Ōtorohanga were victorious against Hamilton Marist-University combined in the women’s premiership match.

The home side took the win 51-31.

Second five-eighth Koiatarau Edwards helped herself three of her team’s nine tries. Other scorers included fullback Katie Corbett, flanker Terri King, left winger Kura

Edwards and prop Shaolin Tapiata. Halfback Tayla Toa slotted three conversions.

This Saturday, the Ōtorohanga men host University. The women’s squad will travel to Cambridge in search of a round eight win against Mel-tap (MelvilleHautapu combined).

When they faced off in round one, Mel-tap won 22-15 at Island Reserve.

Across 1. Unimportant detail (6)

5. Accentuate (6)

8. Hullabaloo (3)

9. Fruit (6)

10. Painful experience (6)

11. Chomp (4)

13. Meant (8)

14. Sweet, sticky substance (5)

15. Non-believer (5)

Last week

19. Recall (8)

21. Defrost (4)

22. Procession (6)

23. Boredom (6)

25. Hot tub (3)

26. Standing (6)

27. Modest, restrained (3-3)

Down

2. Willingly (7)

3. By way of (L) (3)

4. Slowly (music) (6) 5. Stuck up (6) 6. No longer needed (9)

7. Climb (5)

12. In high spirits (9) 16. Usually (2,1,4) 17. Preoccupy continually (6) 18. Savage (6) 20. Praise (5) 24. Morning moisture (3)

Across: 1. Sonic, 4. Chance, 7. UFO, 8. Limber, 9. Measly, 10. Offshore, 12. Doom, 13. Aplomb, 15. Tune up, 16. Pest, 17. Withdraw, 19. Flaunt, 20. Impair, 22. Cue, 23. Speech, 24. Forum.

Down: 1. Stiff upper lip, 2. Nub, 3. Curio, 4. Comment, 5. Abandoned, 6. Colloquialism, 11. Short fuse, 14. Bewitch, 18. Thief, 21. Per.

SBNNESTANISRWTEQTE QEAZMBLTRACKTDETAG FGIRWSSAAAWYGDYGGL FARMLHNJMCMEJJJREX MIJIDEDRAINAGEFUSV BCFLKEYVSZNTPORCBB JQECNPVCORNARCOWSN XIIEKXXTPOULTRYUIY FHLLUBYARDBROTCART CBMALPLOUGHHARROWH MLYLBBYWNOITAGIRRI

ANIMALS BALER BARLEY BARN BULL CATTLE CHICKEN CORN COWS CROP DAIRY DRAINAGE FARM FENCE FIELD FRUIT GATE GEESE GRAIN HARROW HARVEST HEDGE HOUSE IMPLEMENT

IRRIGATION LAMB MAIZE MEADOW PLOUGH POULTRY SHEEP SHEPHERD

SILO

SPRAYER

STORE

TRACK

TRACTOR TRAILER TURKEY VEGETABLES WHEAT YARD

Sunday 24 May

Contemporary comfort and space to grow

Spacious 220 m2 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 includes five generous bedrooms and a contemporary bathroom, with soft neutral tones enhancing the natural light throughout. Downstairs offers a laundry, additional shower room and separate toilet, plus versatile extra spaces with external access.

P 07 878 8335

Residential / Commercial / Industrial / Inspections

P 07 878 8335

E james@marshallelectrical.co.nz W marshallelectrical.co.nz

E james@marshallelectrical.co.nz W marshallelectrical.co.nz

Septic Tank Cleaning

• Emptying septic tanks

• CCTV pipeline inspection

• Jetting drainage pipelines

• Spreading animal effluent

Waitomo Liquid Waste Disposal 021 111 3911

Dave Rowe PAINTING LTD

• Interior & Exterior

• Painting • Wallpapering

• Spray Painting • Roofs

• Farm Buildings

All interior jobs booked in June/July/August receive a 10% discount t&c apply

Chivone Prak • 021 211 1176 decorator@daverowepainting.co.nz

SCRAP GOLD WANTED

We buy your old worn out or broken gold jewellery. Bring in any earrings, chains, bangles, rings, watches or coins Turn it into $$ CASH Conditions apply. Must have valid NZ passport or drivers licence. Items must be your own property

70 Maniapoto St, ŌTOROHANGA 07 873 7008 159 Rora St, TE KŪITI P 07 878 8913 www.dmjewellery.co.nz

CONCRETE SERVICES

PREP & PLACE DRIVEWAYS RURAL PADS INDUSTRIAL WORKS SHEDS & SLABS DECORATIVE FINISHES CONCRETE REPAIRS

KERRY WILSON 027 347 3091 kerry@mangosolutions.co.nz 27

29th ANNUAL FARMERS EVENT & OTO EXPO

Come and Celebrate 29 Years of this Event!

WEDNESDAY 24TH JUNE 2026

Held at the Otorohanga Club

The evening will commence at 5.30 pm in the Southern Lounge, starting with the “Oto-Expo”, a trade display by many local businesses. The Farmers Party is a chance for the farming community to meet and greet the many supporters of this event. The evening will follow the usual format. ALL FARMERS & BUSINESS PEOPLE WELCOME All New Farming Families Especially Welcome If you wish to become a Sponsor or have any other enquiries, please contact Ann-Marie Brohan at Bailey Ingham Limited on 07 873 7325 Or email Ann-Marie@baileyingham.co.nz.

SITUATIONS VACANT

WDC Contract Opportunity –Awakino Transfer Station Operations and Mōkau Bin Servicing

Waitomo District Council is inviting expressions of interest from reliable and community‑focused contractors for the operation of the Awakino Transfer Station and the servicing of public litter and recycling stations in Mōkau.

Contact Jason P: 021 2666 021 E: jason@perfectlawn.co.nz

This is a minor services contract offering a great opportuni ty for a local operator or small business to play a key role in maintaining essential waste and recycling services for the community.

Scope of Services

The successful contractor will be responsible for:

• Operating the Awakino Transfer Station (currently open Sundays, 9:00am – 1:00pm, with flexibility for extended hours as required)

Receiving and directing waste and recyclable materials safely and efficiently

Maintaining site cleanliness, safety, and compliance with WDC policies and consent requirements

Monitoring waste streams to minimise contamination and maximise recycling

Servicing public litter and recycling stations in Mokau (Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday schedules, with flexi bility for extended days as required)

• Providing accurate reporting (daily banking, monthly reporting, operational records)

What we’re looking for

We are seeking a contractor who:

• Demonstrates strong health and safety practices

• Has a commitment to customer service and communi ty engagement

• Is reliable, organised, and able to work independently

• Has the capability to manage waste operations and minor maintenance tasks

Contract Term

The contract includes an initial term with the potential for extension, offering up to four years in total.

For further information please contact:

Komal Devi

Manager Solid Waste Operations and Contracts

Komal.Devi@waitomo.govt.nz

Expressions of interest close: 31 May 2026

Protecting native species from introduced predators in the Whareorino Conservation Area

The Department of Conservation (DOC) in Te Kuiti is going to control rats, possums & stoats over approx. 5,386 hectares. This is scheduled for the first clear weather window from 26th May 2026.

Native wildlife and forests need protection

Native species are fighting for survival due to predation from rats, stoats and possums. Without protection, we risk losing the unique natural heritage and biodiversity within Whareorino.

The Whareorino Conservation Area contains nationally significant areas of kaikawaka forest (Libocedrus bidwillii). Threatened native species found at Whareorino include: Archey’s frog (pepeketua) – a globally critically endangered frog that are considered living fossils because of their ancient lineage, Hochstetter’s frog (pepeketua) – a speckled and nocturnal native frog, Dactylanthus (te pua o te rēinga) – our country’s only indigenous fully parasitic flowering plant, and the Long-tailed bat (pekapeka) – our country’s smallest native bat at the length of a thumb or smaller.

Predator control operations are done when monitoring shows predators have reached levels that threaten the populations of native species.

Our plan to protect native species

Through sustained predator control using 1080, there is a big increase in breeding success for native birds, their food source is more abundant, and the forest canopy is healthier.

The safest and most effective method we have to control possums, rats and stoats over large areas is to use biodegradable cereal bait pellets containing 1080. This bait targets rodents and possums. Stoats are also controlled through secondary poisoning as they feed on the carcasses of the dead rodents.

Helicopters distribute bait pellets across the forest area along pre-determined and monitored flight paths using technology that enables accurate placement. This is the only viable method to control predators in Whareorino due to the vast and rugged terrain.

This operation begins with the distribution of non-toxic pre-feed bait pellets (sandy coloured). This prepares possums and rodents to eat the toxic bait (dyed green) that is applied afterwards. Both baits are about 16 mm in diameter and cylindrical shaped.

Consultation and permissions

DOC has consulted with hapū, iwi and key stakeholders including landowners adjacent to the treatment area. DOC is delegated authority by the Environmental Protection Agency to decide applications for permission to use 1080 on land administered or managed by DOC. Permission has been granted for this operation. DOC has also received the required permission from the Ministry of Health. DOC ensures that all legal and policy requirements are met, and that any potential risks of the operation are managed.

Managing risk

1080 is poisonous to humans, domestic and game animals. In areas where the toxin has been applied, dogs are highly at risk until poisoned carcasses have disintegrated. This takes four-to-eight months or longer. There will be warning signs placed at entrances to the treatment area immediately prior to the operation.

Risks can be eliminated by following these rules:

• DO NOT touch bait

• WATCH children at all times

• DO NOT EAT animals from this area or within the buffer zone outside the treatment boundary. The buffer zone is 2 km for deer and pigs, 200 m for rabbits, and 1 km for hares, tahr, wallabies and possums.

• Poison baits or carcasses are DEADLY to DOGS

Observe these rules whenever you see warning signs about pesticides. These signs indicate pesticide residues may be still present in baits and poisoned carcasses. When signs are removed, normal activities can resume. If in doubt, check with your local DOC office. Please report suspected vandalism or unauthorised removal of signs. If you suspect poisoning, please contact:

• Your local doctor or hospital OR The National Poisons Centre: 0800 764 766 (urgent calls) or 03 479 7248 OR dial 111

• Seek veterinary advice for suspected poisoning of domestic animals. For more information

Please contact: Operational planner, DOC Te Kuiti Office, 78 Taupiri Street, Te Kūiti 3910, 0800 275 362, tekuiti@doc.govt.nz OR EcoFX, Contractor 07 873 8130, ecofx-office-nz@rentokil-initial.com

Visit the DOC website: More information about DOC’s National Predator Control Programme is available on our website www.doc.govt.nz/our-work/national-predator-control-programme Map of predator control area within Whareorino

This map shows the area we are controlling rats, possums & stoats to protect native species. You can also see operational updates and detailed maps of predator control on public conservation land on the DOC website. www.doc.govt.nz/nature/pests-and-threats/pesticide-summaries

TRACTOR DRIVER / GENERAL Te Hape B Trust | King Country

Tiroa E & Te Hape B Trusts are Māori land trusts based in the King Country, managing significant farming and environmental assets on behalf of their beneficial owners. Affiliated with descendants of Rereahu, the Trusts oversee large-scale sheep and beef operations alongside extensive native bush and environmental projects across the whenua.

Guided by kaitiakitanga and long-term stewardship, we are focused on building strong farming systems, improving performance, and investing in the future of our land, livestock and people.

Operating across approximately 3,000 hectares, our Te Hape B Trust station is seeking a capable and reliable:

Tractor Driver / General Farm

This is a hands-on role for someone who enjoys practical work, variety, and being part of a progressive farming business. The position supports day-to-day farm operations across machinery work, fencing, maintenance and seasonal farm tasks.

You’ll work closely with the wider farm team and play an important role maintaining infrastructure, supporting stock operations, and helping keep the farms running efficiently.

ABOUT THE ROLE

• Tractor and machinery operation across seasonal farm work

• Fencing construction and repairs

• Water system and general farm maintenance

• Track upkeep and infrastructure support

• Assisting with environmental and development projects

• Supporting the wider farming team when required

• Maintaining high standards of health & safety and machinery care

WE’RE LOOKING FOR SOMEONE WHO:

• Has practical tractor and machinery experience

• Brings good fencing and maintenance skills

• Takes pride in producing tidy, reliable work

• Is motivated, dependable and able to work independently

• Has a strong attitude toward health & safety

• Is physically fit and enjoys working outdoors

• Holds a full NZ driver licence

WHAT WE OFFER

• Supportive team environment with strong leadership

• Variety of work

• Ongoing development opportunities

• Opportunity to work on whenua with long-term vision and purpose

• Competitive remuneration aligned with experience INTERESTED?

For a confidential discussion please contact: Ian Valler, Station Manager | 027 843 9906

Please send applications to sharon@tiroatehape.maori.nz

Be part of the next chapter at Tiroa E and Te Hape B Trusts.

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.

Recliner City Ltd (In Liquidation)

Final Auction Online Only

Sunday 24th May 2026 - 6.00pm

PLEASE NOTE ALL ITEMS ARE LOCATED IN TE KUITI AND MUST BE COLLECTED FROM THERE

Remaining stock from Recliner City, Lounge Suites, Armchairs, Dinning Suite, Dinning Table, Shelving, Lamps, Cushions and more.

Bid price will include GST, Buyers premium of 15% plus GST will apply.

Collection on Tuesday 26th May

10.00am - 2.00pm NO EXCEPTIONS

For further enquiries contact Alastair 021 473-270 Or go to our website www.abauctions.co.nz

~Specialist Auctioneers to Commerce & Industry~

SITUATIONS VACANT

2026 Ownership Review

King’s Birthday - Public Holiday Monday 1 June 2026

Customer Services and Visitor Hub - Closed. Our call centre operates 24/7. Please call 0800 932 4357 or email: info@waitomo.govt.nz

Waitomo District Library - Closed

Admin Office - Closed

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

Refuse Kerbside Collection - Kerbside collection will operate as normal

NEW TO THE DISTRICT?

THE CAB IS WORTH CONTACTING

Our friendy and knowledgable volunteers can provide information and advice from our Community Directory and other resources.

Call in to 222 Rora Street Te Kuiti (Between 10am and 1 pm, week days) or phone us on 07 878 7636 or email us on tekuiti@cab.org.nz

PUBLIC CONSULTATIVE PROCEDURE

In accordance with the Deed of Trust under which the Waipā Networks Trust has been constituted, the Trustees and the Directors of Waipā Networks Limited have prepared a joint report considering proposals and available options for the future ownership of Waipā Networks Limited.

The Trustees and the Directors propose that the Ownership of the Company should continue to remain 100% Trust owned on behalf of the Community.

The Trustees hereby implement a Public Consultative Procedure. Notice is given that the Ownership Review will be available for inspection by the public from the 1st May 2026, from the Trusts website www.waipanetworkstrust.co.nz or during normal business hours at the following location:

Waipā Networks Ltd 240 Harrison Drive TE AWAMUTU

Persons interested in the proposals are invited to make written submissions to the Trustees.

All mail submissions should be addressed to:

Submissions to the Trustees

Waipā Networks Trust PO Box 34

TE AWAMUTU 3840

All email submissions should be addressed to: info@waipanetworkstrust.co.nz

Persons wishing to make submissions should ensure that those submissions are received at the above address no later than 5pm 30th June 2026 (“the due date”). Submissions received by the due date will be made publicly available.

In due course, any persons who make written submissions by the due date will be offered an opportunity to be heard by the Trustees at a meeting open to the public.

KM Heeringa

Trust

Manager

WAIPA NETWORKS TRUST

Notice of herbicide spraying

Waikato Regional Council advises that under Resource Consent 124871 spraying of pest plants growing in aquatic and semi-aquatic locations will continue over the next three months.

Pest plants to be sprayed are listed in the Regional Pest Management Plan and include (but are not limited to): alligator weed, Manchurian wild rice, sagittaria, Senegal tea, spartina and yellow flag iris. Herbicides to be used are haloxyfop, imazapyr, metsulfuron-methyl and triclopyr. Application method is location dependent and may be by helicopter, gun and hose, mistblower or knapsack.

Operational areas are spread throughout the region and include (but are not limited to):

• Lakes Whangape and Waikare

• Te Otamanui Lagoon

• Waihou, Piako and Ohinemuri rivers

• Waikato River (from Horotiu to Port Waikato)

• Whangamarino and Maramarua rivers

• numerous smaller urban and rural sites.

Spraying is weather dependent and will occur during daylight hours on any day, including weekends but excluding public holidays.

For more information or to request to be notified visit www.waikatoregion.govt.nz/aquaticspraying or call Waikato Regional Council’s biosecurity pest plants team on 0800 800 401.

Occupiers who have already requested to be notified will be contacted prior to spraying.

CDA McLay Chief Executive

www.waikatoregion.govt.nz

Notice

13 June, 2026 10AM SHARP

Napinapi Paa

AGENDA:

• Mihi/Karakia

• Apologies

• Resolution 1: Receive/ Discuss & Vote on Correspondence from Napinapi Paa Komiti

• Resolution 2: Discuss/vote on removal of 2 inactive Trustees

• Resolution 3: Receive Resignation of Trustee and appoint a replacement

• Resolution 4: To discuss an amendment to the Trust Deed to include “Community Purpose Clause”

Note: Please bring a plate.

Ngā mihi Honour Muraahi (Secretary)

Hinerangi Street, Te Kūiti

Guest SpeakerAimee, Resonate Hearing

Please bring a plate to share, and coin for ra es and books for sale.

Email: greypowerkingcountry@ gmail.com 021 0887 8356

HOUSEKEEPER WANTED

– Mature person without dependants wanted 3 hrs per week for household duties, 10km east of Te Kuiti. References required. Text 0274898063

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)

PIOPIO ARIA MŌKAU CO-OPERATING PARISH

All Saints Piopio, 22 Moa St Sunday 10am

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

Piopio contact: 07 877 8097

Mokau contact: 06 752 9123

WILLIAMS, Myffanwy (Myffy) – A gathering to remember Myffanwy (Myffy) Williams nee Jarman will be held in Otorohanga. Myffy peacefully passed away on 1st April 2026. All interested friends and relatives are welcomed at the St Davids Presbyterian Church Lounge between 12.30-2.30pm on May 29th 2026.

LAMONT, June Yvonne –

On Thursday May 7, 2026 at Summerset Down The Lane Retirement Village, Hamilton. Aged 88 years. Late of Piopio. Dearly loved wife of the late Hugh. Much loved mother and motherin-law of Duncan, Fiona and Derek, Cameron and Dina, and Gregor. Grandma of Toby, Lachlan, Keely, Rachel and Scott. In accordance with June’s wishes a private funeral service has been held. All communications to Lamont Family c/- PO Box 241, Te Kuiti 3941. In the care of VJ Williams & Sons, Funeral Directors Association of NZ

ŌTOROHANGA BAPTIST CHURCH

8 Ranfurly St, Ōtorohanga Sundays 10:30am Service and Children’s programme Everyone is welcome Contact: 07 873 8685

St Bride's Anglican Church Haerehuka St Ōtorohanga

Sunday morning service 10am

Ph 07 873 7006

St David's Presbyterian Church Ranfurly St, Ōtorohanga

Services – Sunday 10am Session clerk

Ph Dawn 07 873 8735 Room bookings Ph Claire 027 276 6624

10 Sheridan St, Te Kūiti An Assemblies of God church

10:30am Sunday

PRICE, Evelyn Joycelyn (Joyce) – Formerly of Piopio. Passed away peacefully on 12th May, 2026, after a full and wonderful life; aged 96 years. Beloved wife of the late Rex. Loved mother of Barry and the late Graeme. Cherished grandmother of Natasha, Leighton and Maya, and adored great-grandmother. Forever remembered for her kindness, strength, love of family, friends and farm life. The family would like to sincerely thank the staff at Hetherington House for their care and compassion. As per Joyce’s wishes, a private cremation has been held. A private interment of her ashes will take place at Piopio Cemetery.

10:30am Sunday

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

10 Sheridan St, Te Kuiti

Pastor Terry & Rowena Bradley 07 878 8694 021 703 008

10 Sheridan St, Te Kuiti

Pastor Terry & Rowena Bradley 07 878 8694 021 703 008

An Assemblies of God Church

An Assemblies of God Church

King Country Christians meet every Sunday in the Piopio

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

Phone Judy 0211359346

Phone Judy 021135946 Everyone is welcome!

Losing a loved one is never easy, but you don’t have to go through it alone. Our professional and compassionate team is available 24/7 to guide you through every step, ensuring a farewell that truly reflects their life. Call us anytime – we’re here when you

That’s a wrap!

The 2026 Waipā Home & Leisure Show has o cially come to a close - and what a great few day it was. Thank you to all our visitors who travelled out to the show and made the most of their time getting to know and purchasing from our local experts. It was great to see so many friendly faces enjoying everything the show had to offer. We also appreciate the helpful feedback – particularly about what you would like to see in 2027.

Thanks, too, to all our exhibitors who worked hard and put the effort into their stands, shared their products, and also came up with show specials and giveaways at a time of rising household costs and an international fuel crises. It takes visitors and exhibitors, working alongside the Good Local Media team to put on a good show - one doesn’t work without the other, and we couldn’t do it without you.

We will be back next year… until then, thanks again.

Winner of $5000 Luxury weekend

Courtesy of Te Karaka Lodge & Winger Motors Cambridge

John Bradley - Te Awamutu