THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 24, 2026
King Country
King Country News | 1
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SEPTEMBER 24, 2026
Tragic end to market trip
By Dan Tasker
A Te Kūiti man has been left traumatised after his mobility scooter caught fire and claimed the life of his dog outside a supermarket. The fire spread to the New World Te Kuiti building which has remained closed. No reopening date has been set. Mike Elliott, 82, headed off on his enclosed mobility scooter to get some groceries early on Saturday morning accompanied by his six-year-old King Charles Cavalier Spaniel Shadow. “I said to the little dog, ‘Shadow, do you want to go to the shop?’ She’s off, she jumps off the chair and she’s out like a rocket. She runs around the scooter first and then I open the door and she hops in, and we just want to get a few things at the
supermarket,” Elliott said. After 10 minutes of shopping, a girl in the store who knew Elliott ran to tell him his mobility scooter was on fire, putting Shadow, who was still sitting in the back seat, in danger. Elliott rushed outside to save Shadow, but when he opened the door of the mobility scooter to let her free, flames licked across his face and he was forced to retreat. “I just opened the door and the flame just shot out and they caught the side of my face. I’ve just been up to the medical centre today to have the bandages redone again,” Elliott said. “That was the most dramatic time of my 82 years, one of the worst days of my life,” he said. Unable to save his beloved companion, Elliott rang his wife Sue who quickly came down to the car park, where the
pair embraced as fire engines arrived to put out the flames encapsulating the scooter and parts of the supermarket. Elliott believed the vehicle’s lithium batteries, which he had replaced five months ago, were responsible. The couple were still coming to terms with the ordeal and struggling to sleep following the loss of Shadow. “That’s the end of the dogs for us, that’s the third dog we’ve had. It’s just too much, the love that they give is just unbelievable,” Elliott said. “We couldn’t even manage to sleep that night, up at about 11pm and have another drink and lying in the lounge on our lazy boys for a couple of hours. It’s just the stress, I’ve never experienced anything like it,” he said.
A mobility scooter which caught fire and spread to the New World Te Kūiti building on Saturday. Photo: Supplied
Group aims to have fun on the run
Ōtorohanga runners (from left) Jamie McKenzie, Miley Mckay and Leanne Mckay are hoping to run in a weekly run and walk event proposed to kick off in January. Photo: Dan Tasker
The positive impact running has had on an Ōtorohanga woman through a life-changing health battle is inspiring a new event for the local community. Jamie McKenzie was a regular runner, competing in a number of halfmarathons, before being diagnosed with Myalgic Encephalomyelitis – commonly known as ME – around five years ago. ME is a neurological condition crossed with an autoimmune condition, where a person’s overexertion can lead to a delayed fatigue response where the body
“crashes” or “shuts down”. The medical condition turned family life on its head for McKenzie, who went from being a regular on the running tracks to bed-ridden for months. “It put things in perspective and really made me focus on every aspect of my life, like health, fitness and nutrition,” she said. “I have got to a point where I’m managing my medical condition a lot better and a large part of that has been running, just getting out and being motivated to move my body, probably more for mental health than anything,” she said.
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Once she was able to run again, McKenzie wanted to organise something that would motivate people to run and bring the community together. “I know there are other people in similar positions where they’re struggling with stuff, but they don’t really have people to lean on or people to talk to,” McKenzie said. After reaching out to Ōtorohanga mayor Rodney Dow in April, McKenzie connected with council chief executive Tanya Winter, an avid runner who was keen to help get something going. Continued on page 2
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King Country News
THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 24, 2026
MAYORAL VIEW
The case for Taumatamaire
Hato Hone St John
Area Committee
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)
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State Highway 3 is crucially important for Taranaki’s economy and the section between Piopio and Uruti is challenging. At the southern end, the Mt Messenger bypass is scheduled for completion in December this year. Latest cost estimates are around $600 million. North of this is the Awakino Gorge. As I write this the gorge is open, stop/go, but thankfully open. For 32 days in 2025 it was closed. So far this year it has been closed for 42 days. When the Gorge closes it costs the national economy, most directly the people and businesses of Taranaki. And it costs King Country retailers in Mōkau, Awakino, and Piopio also. Some months ago, the mayors of Taranaki, King Country, Waipā and Ruapehu met with the chief executive of NZTA. Mayor Rodney Dow and I suggested that an alternative route be made available to take traffic when the gorge was closed. We suggested an upgraded Taumatamaire Road. NZTA has dismissed the idea. Perhaps not entirely, but they are not advocating for it. They’re happy to leave the Forgotten Highway for cars and State Highway 4 through to Whanganui for trucks as alternative routes for when the gorge closes. The cost for the trucking industry to take the Whanganui option is over $1000 per trip. The trucking industry has joined the call for Taumatamaire to be upgraded to provide an alternative route. So too has Venture Taranaki. We are together preparing a business case to present to the Minister of Transport. Venture Taranaki and the trucking industry
On the beat
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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
are doing the figures. Inframax is assisting with upgrade costings, based on a one-way, unsealed option, open north at times and south at other times. The gorge has been troublesome now for over 100 years. The road through the gorge was opened in 1923, then known as the “Awakino Valley Diversion”. Taumatamaire was the link road prior to the Awakino Valley road being formed. In matters like this there will be differing
John Robertson, Mayor of Waitomo
opinions on what to do. Taumatamaire is not an easy road in parts. But we must find an alternative route to the gorge for the times it is closed. Within the next month the business case will be presented to the Minister of Transport. With gorge closures for over a month in each of the last two years, the case is surely compelling.
Group aims to have fun on the run
Continued from page 1
Winter had experience running at ‘Park Run’ events, a global initiative that arrived in New Zealand in 2012. She and Winter recruited Helen Potter, Dorothy Carr and Leanne Massey, into an organising committee to bring the community together through running. “We just thought it would be nice to have a weekly place and time where people could come together. A lot of it’s for a social connection more than anything, with a real focus on getting people moving and just general fitness, well-being, mental health stuff,” McKenzie said. After connecting with a Park Run ambassador, the committee pulled together an application for a weekly Park Run event in Ōtorohanga, which included health and safety procedures, track information and checks, securing volunteers, on-site first-aid and defibrillator, toilets, parking, a safe gathering area and landowner sign-off.
Committee members have also attended park runs, including events at the University of Waikato and Hamilton Lake, to pick up some tips on how to run a good event. “One of the first things I noticed there even before the run itself started was the real positive feel to the event. “With park run, you can reach these achievement levels where, if you’ve completed 50 park runs in total, they’ll celebrate you. They’ll mention your name and everyone will clap and cheer for you, which sounds a bit corny, but it sets a really good vibe for the group and for the run,” she said. The committee will host a meeting for anyone interested in volunteering to help run a 5km run and walk starting at the Ōtorohanga Tigers Sports Club. The meeting will be at the Tuatara Room by the Kiwi House on October 12 and the first run could be held in January. “Getting it started and seeing people show up really and having the volunteer support, that would be amazing,” McKenzie said.
with Constable Chris Aspin
Stolen, sold and found Police executed a search warrant at a property in Putāruru following an investigation into a stolen utility vehicle that had been taken and sold without the owner’s permission. During the search, staff successfully located the victim’s vehicle and assisted in returning it to the King Country district. Enquiries remain ongoing in relation to the individual responsible for taking and selling the vehicle. In another incident, police conducted a vehicle stop between Ōtorohanga and Pirongia, where officers discovered the 34-year-old male driver was wanted in connection with offences in Hamilton. The man was taken into custody without incident and is now facing charges including wilful damage, assaulting a child, and assaulting a person in a family relationship.
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Staff are also making enquiries into a family harm incident in Te Kuiti, where several vehicles were damaged by a person known to those involved. Police attended a sudden death during the week after a 72-year-old man was found deceased at his home address. Our thoughts and condolences are with the man’s family and friends at this difficult time. Officers also attended a distressing incident in Te Kuiti where a mobility scooter caught fire, the cause of the fire is under investigation by FENZ. Tragically, a small dog that was being transported in a carrier compartment on the scooter was unable to escape the fire and died at the scene. Over the past week, Police have received a number of calls for service relating to a 57-year-old man involved in multiple incidents across Ōtorohanga and Kihikihi.
TE KŪITI Waitomo District Library Queen Street Dairy Patel Mini Mart New World Z Te Kūiti SuperValue BP 2GO PIOPIO Cloverleaf Cafe Piopio Food Mart Piopio Superette GAS Piopio BENNEYDALE Benneydale Foodmarket
MŌKAU River Run Cafe Whitebait Inn WAITOMO The General Store Waitomo Caves isite ŌTOROHANGA Countdown Caltex Pat Prescott Information Centre Ōtorohanga Mini Mart Michael’s Milkbar Beattie Home Paper Plus
Further trespass notices have since been issued to the man. At the time of writing the male has been arrested for breaching a trespass notice in Ōtorohanga. Police located and arrested a 32-year-old male in Te Kuiti after it was established, he was in breach of an active Police Safety Order. He was transported to Hamilton custody without incident. Following his release, staff assisted with serving a Protection Order on the man. Investigations are continuing into two separate arson incidents in Te Kuiti, where rubbish bins were deliberately set alight. As always, thanks for your continued support. Take care on the roads with the either changing weather conditions at the moment. Please continue to report suspicious activity and crime as its observed.
TE KAWA Waitomo Service Station KĀWHIA Kāwhia General Store Kāwhia Motors ŌPĀRAU Ōpārau Roadhouse
King Country News | 3
THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 24, 2026
Briefs… Cut from the top
Aerial Arborists Limited has completed the country’s first live-line helisaw power line corridor clearance in partnership with The Lines Company. The milestone was achieved on TLC’s 33kV Kuratau power line through Rotoaira Forest, where vegetation was cleared alongside a high-voltage line without turning power off to customers. Helisaw systems use saw blades suspended beneath a helicopter to trim trees along power line corridors.
Symes Bridge
Periods of stop/go traffic control will be in place at Symes Bridge, about 16km north of Ōtorohanga on SH39 while scaffolding is built underneath, and services attached to the deck are relocated. The bridge will close for about two months from October 11 while the bridge deck and beams are replaced.
Scheme endorsed
Waikato Regional Council has endorsed Te Mauri o te Taiao: Waikato Regional Biodiversity Strategy. The strategy is the first region-wide framework to guide biodiversity investment and action across the Waikato over the next 25 years.
Election call
Nominations have opened for the 2026 Fonterra Co-operative Council and Directors’ Remuneration Committee elections. The seven electorates are Waipā, Central Plateau, Waikato West, Piako, Southern Northland, Wairarapa and Eastern Southland.
Correction
Te Kuiti Hospital’s bed numbers were recently cut from 12 to seven, raising concerns from King Country Grey Power president Adrianna Astle that health services were being quietly reduced. National Taranaki-King Country MP Barbara Kuriger said the hospital could still provide 12 beds if required. In last week’s story, “Health cuts bite”, Kuriger was quoted as saying the hospital had used only four beds in the past two years. The quote should have said there had been only four occasions in two years when the hospital needed as many as seven beds. We apologise for the error.
College gets A few thoughts… scientific By Roy Pilott
By Chris Gardner
Ōtorohanga College’s former library is being transformed into a $1.5 million science facility designed to provide students with handson learning spaces. College board member Kim Ingham said planning for the project began in 2022 as part of a five-year development programme. “Based on value and its future impact on teaching and learning, this project is the most significant in the college’s programme,” Ingham said. The redevelopment will convert the existing library into three compliant science teaching spaces and a breakout area. It will also include preparation rooms, resource storage and staff facilities. The school library has been moved to a new home at the college. The project was designed by Peddlethorp Architects, with construction by Asap
Ōtorohanga College principal Lyndsay Kurth with site foreman Jesse Birchfield as the library is converted into a science facility. Photo: Chris Gardner
Contractors and project management by Jason McCarthy and Colliers. Principal Lyndsay Kurth said the facility would provide an outstanding teaching and learning environment. “It will give our students access to modern, purposebuilt science spaces that support practical, handson learning and help bring science to life,” she said. “For our science staff, the
facility will provide highquality, fit-for-purpose spaces and resources that support innovative teaching and create exciting learning opportunities for students. “This is an outstanding facility for Ōtorohanga College and represents a significant investment in the future of our learners and their education.” Work is expected to be completed before the start of the next academic year.
News that the black robin has won Forest and Bird’s “bird of the year” competition winners got me thinking this week. The competition is a great piece of public relations for our birds (and in 2019 the long tailed bat) and often highlights the tremendous conservation work which helps them. Occasionally it gets hijacked – such as when the marvellous Australian crested grebe – a South Island resident - won on a wave of international support in 2023. But in this competition any publicity is good publicity. And there are few better stories than the one telling how a team inspired by the late Don Merton helped the robin recover on the Chatham Islands after looking extinction in the eye in the 1980s. But if we can’t cry fowl about the competition, we could be challenged to stop ducking an issue. The native duck – the Whio The native duck - the whio – found in central North Island water ways – remains the only bird to be seen on our banknotes which has never enjoyed bird of the year glory. The hoiho ($5) won in 2019, the karearea ($20) in 2025, the kōkako ($50) in 2016 and the mohua ($100) in 2013. This month a malnourished whio was euthanised after being discovered in the Tongariro River with a fishing hook in its foot and line wrapped around its wings, which was damaged beyond repair. Ironically, the ducks, easy prey for introduced mammals, find themselves competing with trout for food. Their numbers are down to 3000, and there is an imbalance – more males than females. Perhaps in 2027 we can make them our bird of the year – and celebrate the work to maintain their numbers. I know which way I’ll be voting.
Out of this world – and underworld By Chris Gardner
Once you’ve been to the moon, where do you go next? Apple asked the question in a promotional video introducing the iPhone 18 Pro, then answered it with a trip to Waitomo. The tech giant called Waitomo Adventure chief executive Nick Andreef to show off the capabilities of the first variable aperture in an iPhone that automatically adjusts to any lighting conditions. “They had New Zealand based producers who already knew about the Lost World Cave,” Andreef said. “We’ve been operating adventures in The Lost World Cave since 1987.” The shoot was conducted in The Lost World and Spellbound Glowworm Caves in July, under a heavy veil of secrecy and non-disclosure agreements, with the new
iPhone locked in a box with a security escort. The advert was recently published on various Apple YouTube channels the US channel alone has 21 million subscribers. “It’s a good advert for New Zealand Inc,” Andreef said. “It’s quite a pat on the back for us.” Both Apple co-founders, the late Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak, have visited the cave. “More recently we had Mr Beast shoot Seven Days Stranded in a Cave,” Andreef said. “There’s been many other VIPs, so I suppose we’re getting pretty-well known out there.” “It was neat that the Apple crew chose NZ to film this advertisement,” said Kieran Chandler of Spellbound Glowworm and Cave Tours.
Apple used this shot in a promotional video in The Lost World Cave
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King Country News
THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 24, 2026
ON SHAKY GROUND
AGE OF REASON
Explosive headlines
Everything is on the rise
By Janine Krippner
By Richard Steele
A couple of weeks ago volcanic activity in Indonesia hit global news with “shock, horror” six volcanoes erupting at the same time. A few loved ones sent me media articles, and I raised a friendly eyebrow thinking “yes?” Let’s set the very active record straight here. Indonesia is one of the most volcanically active countries on Earth. It is also enormous. It is made up of more than 17,500 islands, with many western islands spread across the Sumatra-Andaman Subduction Zone. This is the one that produced the catastrophic 2004 Boxing Day earthquake and tsunami. Volcanism has shaped Indonesia, and while there are plenty of hazards, there are also ample benefits. It is often wrongly claimed that it is part of the “Pacific Ring of Fire”, but if you look at a map of the ‘ring’ of interconnected plate boundaries around the Pacific Ocean, it takes a lot of creativity to include Indonesia. It is not connected. According to their monitoring agency the nation has 127 known potentially active volcanoes, meaning they have been active in the past 10,000 years and they could become active at any time. Or they already are. It has a few celebrity volcanoes like Anak Krakatau (misspelled “Krakatoa” almost everywhere) that produced a disastrous eruption and tsunami in 1883, and a smaller yet also devastating collapse and tsunami in 2018. It has been erupting on and off for decades. Toba has an enormous caldera that produced a famous, exceptionally large eruption 74,000 years ago, among the largest that we know of. This is a great
example of how even the most enormous of eruptions don’t wipe out humanity. I present the evidence of you sitting here, reading this. Photos of the picturesque Mount Bromo are often shared online. Volcanoes like Sinabung and Merapi have had deadly eruptions in recent years. The unrest and eruption of Agung in late 2017 threw me into global crisis communication. I could keep going for quite a while. Volcanoes across Indonesia produce almost every type of Earthly volcanism. Many smaller eruptions, and relatively frequent large explosive eruptions occur here compared to most other countries. My point is, to have a handful of erupting volcanoes across Indonesia is normal. Yes, it is spectacular. Yes, some of them are very scary because they are right near (or beneath) populations. And yes, volcanologists care very much about them. They’re also a significant hazard to air traffic, given how many flight paths cross this large country. I welcome enthusiasm about volcanoes, but this is a reminder to always read headlines with a healthy dose of scepticism. We can use them as an opportunity to tumble down an interesting rabbit hole, while being careful to use trusted sources and not more clickbait. There is also a rapidly growing amount of AI images and videos to sort through. I often see media being attributed to the wrong volcano or eruption, and now we can add into the mix media that was never real to begin with. Because it wasn’t hard enough to sort through misinformation before…
You have got to love it. Or not. Personally I’m sick of all the hype already. But I will stay interested as a commentator, and as I realise politics is our lifeblood. Love that or hate that, neither will make the election go away. Now Labour is pledging to make price gouging go away, which makes me wonder what planet they are on. Because where do you start? Grocery monopolies are very topical, and we are all affected. The popular narrative is about the duopoly reign and how we all suffer. I’m sure there is some truth there, but why stop there? Banks have been taking us to the cleaners all my long life, yet we have never got past the hand ringing and griping, so we have never bought them to account. Billions in profits leave the country every year, and the Aussies love us for it. Kiwi bank have had little impact from where I sit. The fuel companies equally, have made a fortune, supplying our needs at the bottom of the world, and, from what I’m able to ascertain since Donald Trump’s attack on Iran, the refineries’ profits have soared to unequalled levels. At what cost to our economy? Has done anything about that?. Not to my knowledge, though I accept may we not be able to do anything. It’s still price gouging though, and takes cynical advantage of a war that seems to be the fault of one deranged man. The list goes on. Rate increases well above the rate of inflation. What’s the difference between price gouging and
ineptitude?. Wage increases for people who do little to deserve them, including politicians salaries and perks. Governments service charges, for the regulation of things we do in our business, always seem to be well above what’s fair or justified, and every year they go up. Drench and chemical companies have been pricing at the maximum the market can stand all my farming life and seem invincible, and untouchable. We are a captive marker with little say in the matter. Then there are the electricity giants, who have taken over productive sources paid for by us hard working taxpayers, and seem to be always too dear. So, again, where do you start? Do we just put up with inflation, as we always have? When the governor of the reserve bank put up the official cash rate last week, she opined that interest rates would not change as the major banks had already factored a rate rise into their calculations. The banks lurched their rates upward about an hour later. Where was the political comment? There was no comment, and that highlights the hypocrisy of what’s happening now in election season. If you as our representatives are serious about making the country a better place to be, every price increase should come under scrutiny, all the time. Then we would all have more faith in you. SPONSORED BY
Her Move Club Activities Written by Bianka Bartraw (student) and Lacosta Hayward (teacher)
Her Move Activities Club is a five week programme designed to connect young females with physical activity and movement. The goal of the Club is to see its members feel confident enough to engage with community active recreation offerings outside of the programme. This year, 17 girls took part in this programme during Term Two and completed a range of activities including rock climbing, swimming, team challenges, archery tag and modified games. One of our students, Bianka Bartraw, has described her experiences of the Programme; “I loved the experience of Her Move this year. I got to make friends and break out of my comfort zone and do activities after school that actually helped me be more social. My favourite part about the whole thing was when we all decided to put our funds towards doing something fun and spending time with
our local community. The Beattie Home personally warmed my heart, as I played card games with two lovely people who talked about their life. They were quite funny and being there with them made me feel mature. What we did for the community was bring the light back to the people and I was reminded of how grateful I am for living in Otorohanga. I am truly thankful for all the hard work that was put into making this Her Move possible and I am glad I got to experience it, thank you.” During the Her Move Activities Club Programme, the amazing Reilly from YouthTown was able to secure funding for our wahine to connect to the local community. After serious brainstorming, our group decided that they wanted to connect with both our older and younger generation here in Ōtorohanga. After lots of planning and conversations, the Her
Move Activities group got out into the community and did exactly what they set out to do ... connect with our community. We went to Beattie Home and shared in a range of crafts and activities with the residents. It provided opportunities for laughs, competitive card games and beautiful art work to be created by those involved. We were fortunate enough to visit both Hopscotch ELC and Hopscotch Preschool. Our students led craft activities, played games and enjoyed interactive play with the little ones. The big kids enjoyed this just as much as the little kids! Thank you to both Beattie Home and Hopscotch for supporting our young ones and giving them opportunities to connect, build confidence and develop leadership.
King Country News | 5
THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 24, 2026
Janey and her heartland links
By Dan Tasker
Home is where the heart is for artist Janey Martin, whose latest collection connects her American roots to her new home in Te Kūiti. Hundreds of locals flocked to the bi-annual Waitomo Society of Arts (WSA) Exhibition at the Les Munro Centre in Te Kūiti last week, where close to 30 members and guest exhibitors displayed their work in watercolour, photography, pottery, quilting and animal skeletons. Martin’s watercolour collection titled ‘Heartland’ on display at the four-day event, featured 15 pieces with a blue, green and brown skyfarm-land theme created over the last month. It creatively captures the small town rural connection between Martin’s upbringing across the mid-western American states of Iowa, Illinois and Nebraska in the 1970s and 1980s, and her home in Te Kūiti where she moved to a year ago. “I call it Heartland because one thing I noticed is similarities in the social landscape too. When I saw this area being referred to as manawa ki te whenua – the heart of the land – there’s a feeling of being at the heart of feeding the country and the world, in both cases from where I’m from and here, so there’s a lot of parallels,” Martin said. She has enjoyed meeting other
Janey Martin with her ‘Heartland’ watercolour collection at the Waitomo Society of Arts Exhibition.
local creatives after becoming a member of the WSA this year, and she was quickly impressed by the quality of work members were creating. “It was a wonderful surprise to learn that there are so many people doing such creative work at a really high level in such a broad variety of medium in this area,”
Martin said. “I’m finding through conversations that people are not aware that this society exists, or that we have the breadth and calibre of work happening in this area. It’s really rich in the variety and quality of work here,” she said. Martin’s latest series was
Photo: Dan Tasker
inspired by her earlier 2004 work she found when unpacking after arriving in Te Kūiti, where she played with ideas of stereoscopy and seeing double in red and blue. “When I drive through the landscape here, I’m really struck by the huge sky that we experience in this part of the world. The blue and the green are always really
vibrant to me and that’s something I remember from where I lived in Iowa especially,” Martin said. “The spring corn is this colour of green; there’s no parallel, it’s just so alive. Seeing that with the blue sky, that’s really the inspiration for this current series. I went back to that abstract, that’s a visual reminder of exactly what I was experiencing in the other place,” she said. Having worked with watercolours since she was 12, Martin hoped visitors to the exhibition enjoyed the contrasting aspects and the “feeling of optimism and a freshness” of the collection. “It’s the reason why I’m doing this is that the skies are very fluid and that gives them the realism, but then I do have a more controlled and intentional approach on the bottom,” Martin said. “People who see my triangle work, they ask me often if I use a straight edge or do masking, but it’s all done freehand,” she said. The architect and landscape designer moved to Te Kūiti after buying the property on the corner of Sheridan and Taupiri St as a renovation project, following a 25year career in San Francisco before moving to Wellington in 2018. She hasn’t wasted any time getting involved in joining several community groups, including the WSA, Legendary Te Kūiti, Altrusa and the croquet club.
TE KUITI
PUBLIC MEETING 2pm Sunday 27 September Waitete Rugby Club 55 Waitete Road Te Kuiti
Authorised by H Howard, www.nzfirst.nz
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King Country News
THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 24, 2026
Ramming it home By Dan Tasker
Another week and another trophy locked away as King Country beat Ngāti Porou East Coast to confirm their best start to a Heartland Championship season. The Rams finished week six top of the table after seeing off Ngāti Porou East Coast 52-10 in Taupō on Saturday to defend the Bill Osborne Taonga, and claim the Manawaroa Trophy, a new cup played for between the two teams. King Country (27) hold a four-point lead over Mid Canterbury (23), followed by a log jam of Whanganui, Thames Valley, Horowhenua-Kapiti and North Otago on 22 and South Canterbury, 21. A win over Buller in Taumarunui this weekend will go a long way to securing a home Meads Cup semi-final. King Country have garnered a reputation of absorbing copious amounts of early pressure before putting teams to the sword, as was the case against East Coast. Number eight Kaharoa Takuira-Mita continued his barn-storming form, running • Had your licence for decades but never refreshed your Road Code knowledge? • • Had your licence for decades but never refreshed your Road Code knowledge? amok with a first-half Feeling unsettled because you have a medical coming up to renew your licence? e •for• Feeling decades but never refreshed your Road Code knowledge? hattrick of tries – the first Curious about what all these changes to road layout and signs mean? unsettled because you have a medical coming up to renew your licence? off the back of a scrum, the ed because you have a medical coming up to renew your licence?
licence for decades never refreshed Code knowledge? • Come Curious whatbut all these changes to roadyour layoutRoad and signs mean? to ourabout FREE classroom-based driving refresher. what•all these changes road and signs •Had We promise it'slicence engaging and notlayout your for decades butmean? never refreshed nsettled because youtohave aboring! medical coming up to renew your licence? • Light lunch included for free Come to our classroom-based drivinglayout refresher. your Road Code knowledge? bout what allFREE these changes to road and signs mean? classroom-based driving refresher. • We promise it's engaging and not boring!
t's engaging andunsettled not boring! •DATE Feeling because you Monday 9th November 2026have a medical • Light lunch fordriving free FREE classroom-based cluded for free included9.45am TIME: - 2pm refresher.
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VENUE: John boring! Ambulance Station training room, mise it's engaging andStnot 11 Kakamutu Rd, Ōtorohanga nch•ENROLMENTS included for free what CuriousESSENTIAL: about all these changes to road Please contact the Age Concern Waikato team
layoutMonday and signs mean? 07Monday 838 2266 9th November 2026 9thPhone: November 2026 DATE Email: enquiries@ageconcernwaikato.org.nz 9.45am - 2pm TIME: 9.45am - 2pm St John Ambulance Station training room, VENUE: St John Ambulance Station training room, Monday 9th November 2026 Come to our FREE classroom-based driving refresher. 11 Kakamutu Rd, 11 Ōtorohanga Kakamutu Rd, Ōtorohanga
9.45am - 2pm
• We promise it’s engaging and not boring! ENTIAL: Please contact thePlease Age Concern team Waikato team ENROLMENTS ESSENTIAL: contact Waikato the Age Concern St John Ambulance Station training room, • LightPhone: lunch07 included 838 2266 for free Phone: 07 838Ōtorohanga 2266 11 Kakamutu Rd, Email: enquiries@ageconcernwaikato.org.nz
Email: enquiries@ageconcernwaikato.org.nz
S ESSENTIAL: Please contact the Age Concern DATE: Monday 9th November 2026 Waikato team Phone: 07 838 2266
TIME:
9.45am - 2pm
VENUE:
St John Ambulance Station training room,
Email: enquiries@ageconcernwaikato.org.nz
11 Kakamutu Rd, Ōtorohanga ENROLMENTS ESSENTIAL: Please contact the Age Concern Waikato team Phone: 07 838 2266 Email: enquiries@ageconcernwaikato.org.nz
Patrick Hedley scored a try in his blazer game in Taupō. Photo: Dan Tasker
second from a close-range linebreak and the third cleaning up the scraps from a Reeve Satherley dash. Tries to wing Samesa Bainivalu, lock Peter Te Kahu and centre Logan Patterson had King Country 38-0 up at the break. The Rams picked up where they left off in the second half, through a try to fullback Patrick Hedley in his blazer game off the back of a 50-metre dash from Patterson to lead 45-0. East Coast got onto the scorebard after 52 minutes,
but another try to Te Kahu followed four minues later, and high tackles resulted in the visitors losing captain and halfback Sam Parkes and centre Api Pewhairangi to the sin bin. But with veteran frontrowers Joe Royal and Perrin Manuel subbed into the game, East Coast gained some ascendency. In a clunky last quarter, Royal scored a try from a rolling maul and the hosts had lock Dylan Wind and centre Josevata Malimole yellow carded.
King Country News | 7
THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 24, 2026 www.kingcountrynews.co.nz Tuesday, September 28, 2021 8
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Positively PIOPIO
Case keeps two-stroke title on for wool drives Piopio doyen
By Dan Tasker
Case Wilson has continued his winning ways by clinching the New Zealand Two-Stroke Championships title near Ōtorohanga over the weekend. The 11-year-old Piopio motocross gun took out all four 2km races on the Campbell Farm course 30km east of Ōtorohanga to claim the title in the 8 to 11-year-old 85cc grade. Wilson got out in front early on Saturday’s opening day of racing with two wins in times of 13m 15.428s and 11m 08.619s minutes, with Te Awamutu’s Reed Legg and Levi Pickerill in hot pursuit. He was back at it again on Sunday to win the final two races in 11:12.491 minutes and 11m27.449s to take the championship ahead of Legg and Pickerill. Although it is known as the two-stroke national championships, the annual event that attracts riders from across the North Island doesn’t carry official national championship status as it is not a Motocross New Zealandaccredited event. Even so, Wilson said he was proud to defend his title after winning the same event, run by Central Motocross Club, last year. “It was a mint weekend, the track was fast. I had some great battles with Reed Legg and I was really pleased with my starts on Sunday,” Wilson said. It’s been a year to savour for Wilson, whose defence of his two-stroke title sits alongside the New Zealand Junior Motocross Championship win he had in Christchurch earlier in the year in what was his first national championship. Following the junior nationals in April, Wilson continued his rich form by winning the New Zealand Motocross TT Nationals in the 85cc class at Taupiri in May. Motocross is in the blood for the young Piopio rider, whose dad Paul Wilson won nine national cross-country titles as well as the legendary Tarawera 100 cross-country Case Wilson (centre) took the spoils to win his class at the New Zealand Two-Stroke Championships title near Ōtorohanga. marathon in 1998. The perfect venue!
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King Country News
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4. Dash (6) 5. Source (6) 6. Take apart (9) 7. Smock (5) 12. Double meaning (9) 16. Restrict (7) 17. Prim (6) 18. Weak or feeble (6) 20. Scope (5) 24. Plead (3)
Last week Across: 1. Abyss, 4. Accrue, 7. Was, 8. Sponge, 9. Sturdy, 10. Momentum, 12. Term, 13. Limpid, 15. Drowsy, 16. Dawn, 17. Starship, 19. Merino, 20. Orphan, 22. Fad, 23. Myself, 24. Erase. Down: 1. Approximately, 2. Yen, 3. Sweet, 4. Assumed, 5. Courteous, 6. Underestimate, 11. Expensive, 14. Dash off, 18. Abode, 21. Pea.
Sudoku
K R C R O S S O V E R G V P C Y L U C E R B U S G M M E C P G O K A R T U L E E O F O O N Y M I E P C W Y F R I X Q T D T I G T U E L A M M C I T A K F I O G L Q L V Y R O O T N L P R N F R N O Z N M E A W N P D Z K M T I H E T U C U T V U O M I Q F R U E O E P H Y H S A S C B R R A E O D M R E S G M Z N X E Z B E R Z Q F E I E E S U B I N I M Y X M O L R Y F J D H J E P U O C H I B D I E D R Q A L U X U R Y H C M I L Y K C O E N W S R O T C A R T K L E N E W R V S P O R T S R S N E U H A B I U T O E I X N P I U E L B I T R E V N O C N A V J O V M O T O R B I K E Y H E C I R T C E L E L I B O M W O N S R W F J G C W E N I S U O M I L T J W BULLDOZER BUS CARAVAN CEMENT MIXER CHARIOT CONVERTIBLE COUPE CROSSOVER DUMP TRUCK ECONOMY ELECTRIC FARM BIKE
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Fill the grid so that every column, every row and every 3x3 box contains the digits 1 to 9.
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Last week Sudoku
Wordsearch W E D D I N G B A Y X F H S L E W L T T L Q U Y O E I Y A D H T R I B A R I K F U N T T K Q L L U P K G M Y N I R Y F E W E G E B N U H A I A E P U B A K U E O Y N I R A M V N D R A C P Q M O O N D S I U F F A G E I V T R A T I F S X E A M F G Z E I V L N I R N M S E N I D N A M A R R N O I Y U U E A U F B I I J L A B A C V S S A R B T E A K B V S U X R R N A I P N U F K T R L C U P P J E V O B A O A R B T A O C G Y I E U A C I A R N N A E P I H N E T C P X D O N B M G A N O R A N G E C E U O J C O M I E B Q V K M K W L K I E V U O C U A E T A G D U L E M O N L E G N A R R H D G A W L S J B S R O C K U D G S I M N E L P S L H C A R R O T F
King Country News | 9
THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 24, 2026
Mary Tapu Te Kuiti 4 Anzac Street
Mokau 10 North Street
Open Home
Relaxed Mokau village living
3
Set in the heart of the ever-popular tourist village of Mokau, this tidy and well-positioned holiday home offers comfortable living just minutes from local shops and amenities. The home features three bedrooms and one bathroom, with a practical open-plan layout where the dining, lounge and kitchen flow seamlessly together - ideal for relaxed everyday living. A mix of carpet and wood flooring throughout adds warmth and character, while a woodburner provides cosy heating during the cooler months. Water is supplied by the council, with electric hot water and a wetback system for convenience.
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For Sale $479,000 View Sat 26 Sep 12.00 - 12.30pm Web pb.co.nz/TEU219651
Ben Sheridan M 021 238 8125 Khaniya Marshall M 021 170 8711
Te Kuiti 30 Awakino Road
Open Home
Modern comfort, easy living
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For Sale Buyers $550,000+ Conveniently located close to Te Kuiti's town centre and everyday View By appointment amenities, this modern build home offers an inviting place to call Web pb.co.nz/TEU209089 home with plenty to enjoy. Featuring three bedrooms and one bathroom with an additional separate toilet, there's space for families, couples or those looking for a smart investment. The heart of the home is the open-plan kitchen, dining and living area - a light and welcoming space that flows naturally through to the outdoor areas at both the front and rear. Whether you're enjoying your morning coffee or hosting friends, there's room to make the most of it. Outside, the flat 830m2 section is easy-care and offers a great balance of space and simplicity. Two separate garages add excellent practicality. Mary Tapu M 027 474 9869
Piopio 1 Kaka Street
Te Kuiti 11 Mahoe Crescent
$46,000 reduction! At home on Awakino
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Massive price reduction! Come and view this Sunday 27 September from 12.45-1.15pm. 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. Three bedrooms upstairs with a fourth bedroom, or study, downstairs provide excellent accommodation options, while the home is serviced by a centrally located bathroom and a separate laundry also located downstairs.
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For Sale $529,000 View Sun 27 Sep 12.45 - 1.15pm Web pb.co.nz/TEU217411
Mary Tapu M 027 474 9869
Te Kuiti 645 State Highway 30
Te Kuiti 11 Anzac Street
SOLD
Open Home
Versatile living in Piopio
Four bedrooms and worth a look
Independent lifestyle living
Brick beauty with extra space
Offering far more than meets the eye, 1 Kaka Street is a versatile property with plenty of options to suit a range of buyers. The property features four bedrooms and two bathrooms, complemented by a separate, fully plumbed and wired unit with its own bathroom and toilet.
At the end of the cul de sac in Mahoe you will find this 1960s fourbedroom, 180m2 home. A wrap around deck allows a sip of tea wherever the sun may shine. Double doors open from the lounge and master bedroom to the deck and views across town. An open plan modern kitchen, dining and comfortable family lounge all heated by way of a heat pump.
Seldom do you find a home set up for independent living to this level. Scandinavian designed Fraemohs home built in 2011. Open plan design with exposed beams and vaulted ceilings in the living areas, relax in the glow and warmth of these natural 93mm thick timbers.
11 Anzac Street offers comfortable, easy-care living with plenty of versatility. This brick home features two bedrooms, one bathroom and a practical layout. A carport and garage add convenient off-street parking, while the separate sleepout offers two additional rooms with plenty of potential. Use it for guests, hobbies, a home office, teenagers or extra storage.
Mary Tapu M 027 474 9869
Mary Tapu M 027 474 9869
For Sale By Negotiation View By appointment Web pb.co.nz/TEU235237 4
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Mary Tapu M 027 474 9869
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For Sale $399,000 View By appointment Web pb.co.nz/TEU103031 4
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Mary Tapu M 027 474 9869
For Sale $699,000 View Sun 27 Sep 12.00 - 12.30pm Web pb.co.nz/TEL236064 3
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Proud to be here 131 Rora Street, Te Kuiti, 3910 07 878 8266 tekuiti@pb.co.nz Property Brokers Ltd Licensed REAA 2008
Licensed REA A 2008 Q034155
Property Brokers Ltd Licensed REAA 2008 |
Proud to be here
10 |
King Country News
THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 24, 2026
New Listing
Open Home
Open Home
Open Home
FOR SALE
FOR SALE
FOR SALE
FOR SALE
This generous 985sqm (approx) section offers an exciting opportunity to create your own slice of country living with a flat, easy to build on contour and a rural outlook. Phone Sam or Buzz.
Three bedroom home with the added bonus of a self-contained investment opportunity. Phone Buzz or Sam.
Solid brick three bedroom home with internal access double garage and additional separate single garage for excellent storage. Phone Buzz or Sam.
This versatile three bedroom home offers generous space and flexible living across two levels, ideal for families or multi-generational living. Ph Buzz or Sam.
15 Georgetti Street, Benneydale
For Sale $135,000 rwotorohanga.co.nz/OTO30438 Rosetown Realty Ltd Licensed REAA2008
Open Home
6 Te Kumi Road, Te Kūiti
24 Anzac Street, Te Kūiti
51 Ward Street, Te Kūiti
For Sale $455,000
For Sale $639,000 REDUCED
For Sale $579,000
View Sunday 27 September, 10.00 - 10.30am rwtekuiti.co.nz/TEK30365
View Sunday 27 September, 10.45 - 11.15am rwtekuiti.co.nz/30364
View Sunday 27 September, 11.30am - 12.00pm rwtekuiti.co.nz/TEK30383
Rosetown Realty Ltd Licensed REAA2008
Open Home
Rosetown Realty Ltd Licensed REAA2008
Open Home
Rosetown Realty Ltd Licensed REAA2008
Open Home
FOR SALE
DEADLINE SALE
FOR SALE
DEADLINE SALE
Two storey lifestyle home set on 6,070sqm(approx) featuring four bedrooms plus a separate sleepout. Double garage includes a vehicle pit and workshop area Phone Buzz or Sam. For Sale $795,000 View Sunday 27 September, 12.15 - 12.45pm rwtekuiti.co.nz/TEK30375
11ha (approx) of land dotted with fruit trees and water troughs in each paddock. Three bedroom 1950's home plus a self contained studio. Ph Buzz or Sam. Deadline Sale Closes 7 October 2026 at 1.00pm at Ray White Te Kuiti, 115 Rora Street, unless sold prior View Sunday 27 September, 1.15 - 1.45pm rwtekuiti.co.nz/TEK30381
This exceptional lifestyle property offers space, rural views and impressive living in a five bedroom home, set on approx 1.75ha. Phone Buzz or Sam.
1950's three bedroom home, large partially fenced section, great location, lots of potential. Ph Julie. Deadline Sale Closes 9 October 2026 at 2.00pm at Ray White Otorohanga, may not be sold prior View Saturday 26 September, 11.00 - 11.30am and Wednesday 30 September, 12.30 - 1.00pm rwotorohanga.co.nz/OTO30446
2A Pukenui Road, Te Kūiti
Rosetown Realty Ltd Licensed REAA2008
40 View Road, Te Kūiti
Rosetown Realty Ltd Licensed REAA2008
100 Tate Road, Te Kūiti
For Sale $999,000 View Sunday 27 September, 2.15 - 2.45pm rwtekuiti.co.nz/TEK30382 Rosetown Realty Ltd Licensed REAA2008
33 Gradara Avenue, Ōtorohanga
Rosetown Realty Ltd Licensed REAA2008
Open Home
Open Home
Open Home
Open Home
FOR SALE
FOR SALE
FOR SALE
FOR SALE
This brand new, three bedroom home delivers an impressive kitchen, tiled showers, a kwila deck, and a level of detail that sets it apart. Phone Lorraine.
This three bedroom home features a brand new sleek and practical kitchen with a stone benchtop and all new appliances. Impressive garaging. Phone Lorraine.
Three bedroom family home with a sunny office space, internal access garage and the master bedroom features walk-in robe and external access. Ph Lorraine.
Space, practicality and a little something extra. Three bedrooms, single garage, established fruit trees, a glasshouse, chook pen, garden shed. Ph Buzz or Sam.
3/38 Harpers Avenue, Ōtorohanga
65 Hinewai Street, Ōtorohanga
30 Te Kawa Street, Ōtorohanga
80 Gradara Avenue, Ōtorohanga
For Sale $779,000
For Sale $549,000
For Sale $529,000 REDUCED
For Sale $539,000
View Sunday 27 September, 3.00 - 3.30pm rwotorohanga.co.nz/OTO30408
View Sunday 27 September, 2.00 - 2.30pm rwotorohanga.co.nz/OTO30441
View Sunday 27 September, 11.30am - 12.00pm rwotorohanga.co.nz/OTO30421
View Sunday 27 September, 9.00 - 9.30am rwtekuiti.co.nz/TEK30378
FOR SALE
FOR SALE
FOR SALE
FOR SALE
Tucked away privately behind other dwellings, this spacious two bedroom unit with a flat section, also offers access to amenities. Phone Lorraine.
A solid three bedroom contender for your investment portfolio or step onto the property ladder as first home buyers. Phone Lorraine or Sonia.
Maori Lease Land. Great views over the Harbour and beyond. Three bedrooms, decking on upper level, single internal access garage. Phone Julie.
Rosetown Realty Ltd Licensed REAA2008
Rosetown Realty Ltd Licensed REAA2008
Rosetown Realty Ltd Licensed REAA2008
Rosetown Realty Ltd Licensed REAA2008
Open Home
53 Hinewai Street, Ōtorohanga
30A Rangitahi Street, Ōtorohanga
5 Tonga Street, Te Kūiti
For Sale $390,000 REDUCED
For Sale $475,000
This exceptional property offers the complete lifestyle package with space, luxury and entertainment. This impressive home is packed with features both inside and out. Phone Sam or Buzz.
View Sunday 27 September, 12.30 - 1.00pm rwotorohanga.co.nz/OTO30364
rwotorohanga.co.nz/OTO30443
rwtekuiti.co.nz/TEK30360
FOR SALE
Ōtorohanga sections (all sizes are approximate) 36B Kio Kio Station Rd, Otorohanga, 6279sqm, four troughs, electric fencing. Ph Buzz/Sam.Offers over $299,000 3 Rothery Place, Otorohanga, 685sqm, power, water, fibre, wastewater at boundary. Ph Buzz/Sam ......... $220,000 44 Thomson Ave, Otorohanga, 686sqm, power, water, fibre, wastewater at boundary. Ph Buzz/Sam ....... $220,000 9 Sunset Close, Otorohanga, 750sqm in Westridge subdivision. Ph Lorraine ..................................................... $175,000 149A Old Te Kuiti Road, Lot 1, 5517sqm, easy covenants. Phone Lorraine ...................................Offers over $250,000 15 William Street, Otorohanga, 406sqm, power, water and wastewater at boundary. Ph Lorraine .............$215,000 Lot 1, 627 Waitomo Valley Road, Otorohanga, 8105sqm rural lifestyle section. Phone Julie ........................ $298,000 Lots 90-108 Harpers Avenue, 486sqm to 962sqm, Westridge II subdivision. Phone John .............From $220,000ea 576C Mangawhero Road, Otorohanga, 1ha, fenced, sensible covenants. Ph Noldy .................. Offers over $385,000
Rosetown Realty Ltd Licensed REAA2008
202 Ash Terrace, Aotea Harbour
A delightful two bedroom property with a harbour view. It's an easy short walk to your morning swim. Renovated, modern and well maintained. Phone Julie. For Sale $625,000 negotiable rwotorohanga.co.nz/OTO30442 Rosetown Realty Ltd Licensed REAA2008
Ray White
For Sale $750,000
Rosetown Realty Ltd Licensed REAA2008
114 Short Street, Kawhia
For Sale $255,000 rwotorohanga.co.nz/OTO30396
Rosetown Realty Ltd Licensed REAA2008
Rosetown Realty Ltd Licensed REAA2008
FOR SALE
210 Cooper Drive, Aotea
Te Kūiti sections (all sizes are approximate)
2 Jennings Street, Te Kuiti, 979sqm, cenral location. Ph Sam or Buzz ..................................................................$165,000 167B Tate Road, Te Kuiti, 9697sqm, formed metal driveway, minimal covenants. Ph Sam or Buzz .............. $325,000 35 Robin Azariah Place, Te Kuiti, 1084sqm, handy to schools and hospital. Phone Buzz ................................ $250,000
Other sections (all sizes are approximate)
2 Kuku Street, Piopio, 1097sqm, local and rural views, backs onto farmland, no covenants. Ph Lorraine ..... $79,000 0 Raglan Road, Kawhia, 2648sqm lifestyle section, no covenants, completely off grid. Ph Julie .................. $290,000
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
Stephen Weck Rural/Lifestyle 027 455 1106
Open plan living, two bedrooms inside, two bedrooms in external addition plus a sleepout and high stud garaging for the boat. Phone Julie For Sale $575,000 rwotorohanga.co.nz/OTO30427 Rosetown Realty Ltd Licensed REAA2008
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
King Country News | 11
THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 24, 2026
Monarch Southwest Real Estate Limited Licensed Agent REAA 2008 Sun 3.00-3.30pm Sun, 2.45-3.15pm
Sun 2.45 – 3.15pm
Sun 3.45-4.15pm Sun, 2.45-3.15pm
Sun 2.15-2.45pm Sun, 2.45-3.15pm
Ōtorohanga 4 Tutunui Street 3 1 1 1
Ōtorohanga 553 SHWY 31 Kawhia Rd 5 2 1 3
Ōtorohanga 4 Orahiri Terrace
Ōtorohanga 22 Old Te Kuiti Road
For Sale $530,000 View monarchsouthwest.co.nz/OH22895 Kerry Harty & Karen Lennox M 027 294 6215 M 027 559 4468
For Sale Deadline Closes Wed 28 Oct 1pm (USP) View monarchsouthwest.co.nz/OH22882 Kerry Harty & Karen Lennox M 027 294 6215 M 027 559 4468
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For Sale $449,000 View monarchsouthwest.co.nz/OH22892 Kerry Harty & Karen Lennox M 027 294 6215 M 027 559 4468
Ōtorohanga 20 Gradara Avenue
Ōtorohanga 34 Gradara Avenue
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For Sale Deadline closes 13 Oct, 1pm (USP) View monarchsouthwest.co.nz/OH22887 Kerry Harty & Karen Lennox M 027 294 6215 M 027 559 4468
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For Sale Deadline Closes Tues 22 Sept, 1pm (USP) View monarchsouthwest.co.nz/OH22876 Kerry Harty & Karen Lennox M 027 294 6215 M 027 559 4468
Sun 1.15-1.45pm
Ōtorohanga 94 Main North Road 2
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For Sale $539,000 View monarchsouthwest.co.nz/OH22869 Kerry Harty & Karen Lennox M 027 294 6215 M 027 559 4468
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Sun 10.15–10.45am
Sun Sun,11.45-12.15am 2.45-3.15pm
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For Sale $575,000 View monarchsouthwest.co.nz/OH22884 Kerry Harty & Karen Lennox M 027 294 6215 M 027 559 4468
Sun 12.30-1.00pm
Ōtorohanga 11 Karaka Road 2 1 1 2
Ōtorohanga 635 Te Kawa Road
For Sale $399,000 View monarchsouthwest.co.nz/OH22865 Kerry Harty & Karen Lennox M 027 294 6215 M 027 559 4468
For Sale By Negotiation View monarchsouthwest.co.nz/OH22872 John Pinny M 021 555 736
2
1
1
2
Sun 2.00–2.30pm
Sun 11.00–11.30am
Ōtorohanga 28 Turongo Street 4 1 1 1
LIFESTYLE Ōtorohanga 135 Honikiwi Road 5 2 1 3
Ōtorohanga 39 Mountain View Road
For Sale Auction 30 Sept, 12pm (USP) View monarchsouthwest.co.nz/OH22873 Kerry Harty & Karen Lennox M 027 294 6215 M 027 559 4468
For Sale By Negotiation View monarchsouthwest.co.nz/TA24376 Troy Richardson M 0277 100 102
For Sale Deadline closes 13 Oct, 1pm (USP) View monarchsouthwest.co.nz/OH22886 Kerry Harty & Karen Lennox M 027 294 6215 M 027 559 4468
Sun 11.30-12pm Sun, 2.45-3.15pm
Sun Sun,12.30–1.00pm 2.45-3.15pm
3
1
1
1
Sun 1.15 – 1.45pm
Sun 11.45–12.15pm Sun, 2.45-3.15pm
Te Kūiti 38 Ngarongo Street 1348m2 A
Te Kūiti 10 Mary Street 4 1 1 2
Te Kūiti 15 Bayne Street 2 3 1 1 1
Te Kūiti 32 Hill Street 4 2 2 1
For Sale Tender closes 30 Oct, 4pm (NPS) View monarchsouthwest.co.nz/TA24422 Sue Spurdle & Bruce Spurdle M 027 476 8445 M 027 474 4430
For Sale Deadline closes 1 Oct, 1pm (USP) View monarchsouthwest.co.nz/OH22877 Kerry Harty & Karen Lennox M 027 294 6215 M 027 559 4468
For Sale Deadline closes 7 Oct, 1pm (USP) View monarchsouthwest.co.nz/OH22889 Kerry Harty & Karen Lennox M 027 294 6215 M 027 559 4468
For Sale Auction 30 Sept, 12pm (USP) View monarchsouthwest.co.nz/TA24399 Lindie Howe & John Pinny M 0274 795 773 M 021 555 736
LIFESTYLE Te Kūiti 210B Mangarino Road
Benneydale 7 Ellis Road
Benneydale 6 Gannon Street
Te Kūiti 92 Rora Street
3
3
3
90sqm
2
Sun Sun,10.45-11.15am 2.45-3.15pm
2
2
5
For Sale $1,650,000 + GST (if any) View monarchsouthwest.co.nz/OH22854 Kerry Harty & Karen Lennox M 027 294 6215 M 027 559 4468
1
1
1.23Ha
For Sale By Negotiation View monarchsouthwest.co.nz/TA24345 Sue Spurdle & Bruce Spurdle M 027 476 8445 M 027 474 4430
1
1
1
For Sale Offers over $300,000 View monarchsouthwest.co.nz/TA24328 Sue Spurdle & Bruce Spurdle M 027 476 8445 M 027 474 4430
For Sale Auction 30 Sept, 12pm (USP) View monarchsouthwest.co.nz/TA24398 Sue Spurdle & Bruce Spurdle M 027 476 8445 M 027 474 4430
12 |
King Country News
THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 24, 2026
EXPERTS
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TIM YOUNG Earthworks Based in Otorohanga. Servicing the Waikato and King Country areas. Specialising in:
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dan@precisionpolesheds.co.nz 027 876 6498
Email Us sales@goodlocal.nz
23a Progress Dr,
Ōtorohanga King Country News | 13
THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 24, 2026
Gardening
SERVICES
PUBLIC NOTICES
KING COUNTRY SELF STORAGE
F O R B LO O M I N G BEAUTIES AND P L A N T S T H AT THRIVE
• Security Patrols •
078737373 0276878614 MOTORING
AUTO MECHANIC
• Free Moving In Trailer • Progress Dr, Ōtorohanga Awakino Rd, Te Kūiti
07 873 7271
Katrina Christison
Tidy Gardens
In the garden this week Spring is finally here, though it’s still on the chilly side this week with plenty of rain about. Don’t let that put you off — it’s the perfect time to tidy up, get a few hardy crops in, and prep the garden for the warmer weeks to come. Right now you can be planting broccoli, cabbage, kale, spinach, peas, carrots and beetroot. These guys handle the cooler nights just fine. Herbs like parsley, thyme, and chives are happy too. If your soil isn’t too wet, get your spuds in for a Christmas harvest. Otherwise, wait for it to dry out a little so they don’t rot. And if you’re keen on tomatoes, pumpkins or beans — best to start them indoors, it’s still too cold outside. Jobs for the week? Keep on top of weeds (they love this mix of rain and mild temps), mulch around fruit trees and perennials to keep roots snug, and dig in compost or
rotted manure where you’ll put summer crops. And don’t forget to protect seedlings from those sneaky frosts with a bit of frost cloth or even a recycled plastic bottle cut in half. I was lucky enough to get my hands on some Cozy Crop recently, and I have to say, it’s a game changer. My dogs thought it smelt pretty tasty (so I have to keep them out of it!), so I’ve been using it in the bottom of holes when planting new plants — both at home and for clients. It works just as well spread around as a feed and mulch product. The best part? It’s made right here in Ōtorohanga. Love supporting local while giving the garden a boost. So this week’s tip: plant hardy, prep for summer, and give your garden a little extra love with some good mulch or feed. Spring’s only just beginning — the best is yet to come.
Lawn & Garden
are members of the
LAWNMOWING
NZ Independent Community Newspapers Association
Hedges • Pruning Gardens Best Price Best Service Jason 021 2666 021 jason@perfectlawn.co.nz
TO LET FARM HOUSE FOR RENT Fence R&M in lieu of rent. 10 minutes from Otorohanga. Phone Ben 0272398211
Find indephouse and endens for sale t Camb each northKing Count ridge week ern King ry News News in your Count – cover , Te local Awam ry area. ing the utu News Waipa and
FRE
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Te Awamutu, We’re
APRIL
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AUTO D MECHANIC ave Rowe SERVICES
PAINTING LTD 07 873 8522
152 Maniapoto St Ōtorohanga
SERVICES
PAINTING
Painting interior/exterior Painting interior/exterior Painting house interior/exterior Exterior washing Exterior house washing Exterior house washing Small jobs PROFESSIONALS welcome TR ADE TR ADE PROFESSIONALS TR ADE PROFESSIONALS Small jobs welcome Small jobs based welcome Te Kūiti ContactSteve Steve 022 022 676 Contact Steve 022 6761839 1839 676 1839 No obligation free quotes No obligation obligation free free quotes quotes DAIRY SPECIALIST • DOMESTIC DAIRY SPECIALIST • DOMESTIC DAIRY SPECIALIST • DOMESTIC Septic Tank Cleaning • INDUSTRIAL COMMERCIAL •COMMERCIAL INDUSTRIAL COMMERCIAL • INDUSTRIAL • EmptyingDavid septic tanks - 027 722 4857 David Knight 027 722 4857 David -Knight -Knight 027 722 4857 • CCTV pipeline inspection Steve Knight - 027 598 2005 Steve Knight 027 598 2005 Steve -Knight - 027 598 2005 Tai598 Dundas - 027 598 2115 Tai• Dundas - drainage 027 2115 Tai Dundas - 027 598 2115 Jetting pipelines Ōtorohanga 07 873 6385 Ōtorohanga - 07 873- 6385 Ōtorohanga 07 873- 6385 • Spreading animal effluent Te Kūiti 07 878 5169 Te KūitiTe - 07 878 Kūiti - 5169 07 878- 5169 07Disposal 378 8545 Taupo -Taupo 07 Liquid 378- Taupo 8545 07Waste 378- 8545 Waitomo 021 111KING 3911 SERVICING THE KING COUNTRY SERVICING THE KING COUNTRY SERVICING THE COUNTRY 24 A7HOURS, DAYS A WEEK 24 HOURS, 7 DAYS WEEK 24 HOURS, DAYS A7 WEEK
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SCRAP GOLD WANTED We buy your old worn out or broken gold jewellery. Bring in any earrings, chains, bangles, rings, watches or coins
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tidygardens@xtra.co.nz | tidygardens.co.nz
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14 |
King Country News
THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 24, 2026
LIVESTOCK
PUBLIC NOTICES
PUBLIC NOTICES
Waitomo District Council Opening Hours for Thursday 1 October 2026
PRELIMINARY NOTICE SPECIAL ENTRY OTOROHANGA SERVICE BULL SALE In conjunction with:
The WDC Customer Services and Visitor Hub, Library and Admin Building will be closed on Thursday 1 October, 2026 until 11am. We will still be available by phone on 0800 932 4357.
Rangiatea Otorohanga TE KUITIRoad, CATTLE FAIR th October 2026 Thursday 8th Friday 17 April 2026 12 noon Start 12 Noon Start Further Details to come. Entries still being taken. A/c:Please G Speedy J Gallagher phone&your Local Trust NZFamily Farmers Agent
NOTICE OF 2026 ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
Notice is hereby given that the 2026 Annual General Meeting of Ruapuha Uekaha Hapū Trust will be held on Saturday, 03 October 26, at Te Korapatu Pā, 102 Hangatiki East Road Te Kuiti 3986. Starting at 10am.
We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause.
Agenda:
CAPITAL SITUATIONS STOCK VACANT ANGUS COWS 68 x VIC MA Angus Cows
MEMBERSHIP SUBSCRIPTIONS DUE 30 SEPTEMBER 2026
TEACHER AIDE
Bred byMAIHIIHI Tarangower and SCHOOL Blackridge We’re looking for asires, caring, these positive, Angus and reliable Teacher join our forward friendly ruraldue schooltoteam. CowsAide willtocome a • This is a term-time, school-hours successful farmposition sale.of approximately 12–18 hours per week, supporting They have students with theirbeen learning,scanned health needs,in andcalf participation at school. Days and hours may be to Tarangower and Blackridge negotiated for the right person. sires.
Otorohanga Club membership subscriptions are due 30 September 2026. Haven’t received your invoice by email? No worries, simply pop into the Club to pay, or email accounts@otoclub.co.nz and we’ll send one through. To help reduce costs, subscription notices will not be posted by mail this year. Thank you for your continued support. A: 107 Maniapoto St, Otorohanga 3900 • P: 07 873 8021 • E: office@otoclub.co.nz
1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9.
Karakia/Mihi Apologies Chairman’s Report Financial Report Initiatives Report Minutes of the Previous Meeting General Business Karakia Whakamutunga Lunch 12.00pm
In the event of a tangi at Te Korapatu Pā, the AGM will be held at 12 Hinewai Street, Otorohanga 3900.
Section 101, Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act 2012
PUBLIC NOTICE
Of an application for On-Licence
Tender Closes - Friday 2 October 4pm.
AW & BL MUDALIAR & CO LIMITED, a private company having its registered office at 88a Sunset Road, Unsworth Heights, Auckland 0632 has made application to the Waitomo District Licensing Committee for the renewal and variation of an off-licence in respect of the premises situated at 57 Moa Street, Piopio and known as Piopio Superette. The general nature of the business conducted under the licence is a Grocery Store. The days and hours during which alcohol is sold under the licence are Monday to Sunday from 7am to 10pm. 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.
All expressions of interest to secretarymaa1inc@gmail.com All enquiries should be made to the above email address.
Section 101, Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act 2012
• Previous experience is an advantage, but not essential – what matters most is someone who enjoys working with children, buildsBull great relationships, willing to learn. Angus - 5/12/25andtois 1/2/26 • This Pay negotiable, on skills and experience, Herd dependent of strong Angus Cows in accordance with the Teacher Aide pay scale.
will be drafted into their For more information or to apply, contact Principal Lisa respective age groups Smith at principal@maihiihi.school.nz or 07 873 2887. on sale day.
YOU GIVE
WE SELL
Paddy’s Market We will have a ‘Paddy’s Market’ on
TENDER
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 3RD
Further enqiries to: MANGA AWAKINO A1 INCORPORATION NZFL Brett Wallbank TENDER GRAZING AGREEMENT 0274 881 299 The Committee of Management (CoM) of Manga Awakino A1
10am at the Piopio College Gymnasium
Incorporation are seeking interest in a three year Grazing Agreement (of Stock) for the Whenua.
Come along for an enjoyable day out. Household items and furniture – bargains galore! • Lions caravan • Hotdogs • Chips • Drinks for sale
If you are interested, please contact secretarymaa1inc@ gmail.com for copies of the Grazing Tender and Grazing Lease Agreement.
PUBLIC NOTICE
SITUATIONS VACANT
CY N A C A te JOB V andida r the king fo
Loo
SE W VERTI
ITH U
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0005 7 287 l.nz 2 0 n dloca nine o Call Ja janine@goo il or ema
AD “Local jobs for local people”
right c
PUBLIC NOTICES
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.
PROPOSAL TO CLOSE ROAD KĀWHIA KAI FESTIVAL Proposal to Close Road In accordance with the Tenth Schedule of the Local Government Act 1974, notice is hereby given that the Ōtorohanga District Council, for the purpose of allowing the Kāwhia Kai Festival, proposes to close the following roads to ordinary vehicular traffic for the period indicated hereunder: Saturday, February 6, 2027 Proposed roads are Jervois Street, Omimiti Street and Tainui Street, Kāwhia Period of Closures: 5am to 4pm Note: Prior public notice incorrectly stated period of closures as 4:30am to 6:00pm. There will not be any detour in place. Access for emergency vehicles will be allowed in the event of an emergency. Pursuant to the Transport (Vehicular Traffic Road Closure) Regulations 1965, any person objecting to the proposal is called upon to lodge notice of their objection and grounds thereof in writing before 4.00pm, Tuesday 6th October, 2026 at the offices of the Ōtorohanga District Council, 17 Maniapoto Street, Ōtorohanga or email: amber-rose@otodc.govt.nz
Of an application for Off-Licence GENERAL DISTRIBUTORS LIMITED, a duly incorporated company having its registered office at 80 Favona Road, Favona, Auckland has made application to the District Licensing Committee at Ōtorohanga District Council for the renewal of its off-licence in respect of the premises situated at 123 Maniapoto Street, Ōtorohanga, known as Woolworths Ōtorohanga. The general nature of the business conducted under the licence is that of a supermarket. The days on which and the hours during which alcohol is sold under the licence are: Monday to Sunday 7.00am – 10.00pm for consumption off the premises. The application may be inspected during ordinary office hours at the office of the Ōtorohanga District Licensing Committee at 17 Maniapoto Street, Ōtorohanga. Any person who is entitled to object and who wishes to object to the renewal of the licence may, not later than 25 working days after the date of publication of this notice, file a notice in writing of the objection with the Secretary of the District Licensing Committee at Ōtorohanga District Council, PO Box 11, Ōtorohanga 3940. 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.
Missed Delivery? Phone 07 827 0005
King Country News | 15
THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 24, 2026
FOR SALE
LIVESTOCK
CHURCH NOTICES
CHURCH NOTICES
MOBILITY SCOOTER blue, brand new, $3500 ono. Ph 021 032 8676
MAIZE SILAGE for sale
Available March / April 2027 Contact for us delivery price
John Clark Contracting Ph 027 404 9102 029 833 0011
TO LET HOUSE TO RENT – Otorohanga, no stairs, senior couple, 3 bdrms, attached garage, no pets. Ph 027 279 1044
WANTED TO BUY WANTED TO BUY. Any ute, van, 4WD, truck or car. Any condition doesn’t have to be going. Cash paid. Ph/txt Kevin 027 299 6165
CALF MILK WANTED Bocock’s Calf Rearing Pete 027 433 1440 Mark 0274746917
GOATS WANTED Will buy or muster feral goats Prompt pick up and payment Ph Gavin 027 877 7512 or 07 877 7512
TE KUITI CATTLE SALE Friday, 25th September 12 Noon Start
335 Assorted Cattle Comprising: 2 MA Sire Bulls 25 2yr Steers 35 2yr Angus Heifers 93 2yr Charo/Beef x Heifers 70 Aut R2 Charo x Heifers 70 R1 Charo x + H/F x Strs 40 R1 Charo x + Dairy/Beef x Heifers
PUBLIC NOTICES
PIRONGIA MARKET Pirongia Community Centre, Crozier St Sunday, September 27
9am - 1pm
Last Sunday of every month Email jim1@xtra.co.nz or ph Jim 027 366 5842
We buy milk!
Got reject or surplus milk? Call us today on 027 871 5075. We collect within 1.5 hours drive from Te Awamutu. INSTANT CASH $$$$$ Up to $5000
Tomotuki Marae
AGM
Date: Sunday 1st November 2026 Time: 10am - 12 pm Location: Tomotuki Marae Agenda: - Karakia Timatanga - Previous AGM minutes - Chairperson report - Financials - Outcome of Wharenui hui - General Business - Karakia Whakamutunga For further information please contact:
St Bride's Anglican Church Haerehuka St Ōtorohanga
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)
Sunday morning service 10am
Ph 07 873 7006
St David's Presbyterian Church Ranfurly St, Ōtorohanga Services – Sunday 10am
ŌTOROHANGA BAPTIST CHURCH
8 Ranfurly St, Ōtorohanga Sundays 10:30am Service and Children’s programme Everyone is welcome Contact Pete: 0274 805 942
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
Session clerk Ph Dawn 07 873 8735 Room bookings Ph Claire 027 276 6624
St Luke's Anglican Church Te Kūiti 10am Morning Prayer Service All welcome Phone parish office 07 878 8026
WEEKLY CLASSIFIED DEADLINES Publishing Every Thursday
IN MEMORIAM
DEATH NOTICES
HITCHEN, Jean Hi Jean, it’s been three years. Missing you isn't the hard part my love, it's knowing you’re never coming back that hurts the most. I miss your smile, your touch, your laughter that filled my day with joy. You were my partner, my forever, my everything. Though heaven holds you now, I believe our love is eternal. One day we'll be together again. Until then I'll hold you in my heart cherishing every memory, always my wife, forever my love. Frank@family.
DANIEL, Claire Stella (née Simpson) - 26.12.1941 – 16.09.2026 – Passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family at Waikato Hospital. Dearly loved Mum of Caroline (deceased), Mike and Lee-Anne, and Chris. Special Nana and Great Nana to Jonty, Stacey, Kaitlin, Adam, Mackenzie, Ella, Jude, Luca, Nikau, Kiwa and Isla. According to Mum’s final wishes, a private cremation has taken place and there will be no funeral service. We would like to sincerely thank Dr Farnell, Te Kuiti Medical Centre, St John Ambulance & Waikato Hospital staff for their exceptional care. Also to everyone for their kindness, support, messages, calls, flowers, food and love during this difficult time. Forever loved, forever missed
Family Notices • Engagements • Weddings • Births • Anniversaries • Bereavements • In Memoriam etc
Call Janine 027 287 0005 or email janine@goodlocal.nz
FOX, Margaret Ann – peacefully at Waikato Hospital on Saturday 19th September 2026 supported by her family. Aged 89 years. Beloved wife of the late Bert. Cherished mother and mother-in-law of Diane & Chris; Noel & Lorraine; Ivan & Joanne; and Linda & Peter. Adored Nana to her 11 grandchildren and 12 greatgrandchildren. A celebration of Margaret’s life will be held at St David’s Presbyterian Church, Otorohanga, on Friday 25th September at 11.30am, followed by a private cremation. All communications to the Fox Family c/- PO Box 241, Te Kuiti 3941. In the care of VJ Williams & Sons, Funeral Directors Association of NZ
Booking & copy setting 5pm Monday prior to Thursday publication
FUNERAL SERVICES
*All classified advertising is prepaid prior to publication. *Late bookings after deadline are subject to space availablility.
CHURCH NOTICES
tomotukimarae.info@gmail.com WE BUY ANY JUNK VEHICLES CONDITIONS APPLY
CARS, TRUCKS, SUVs, TRACTORS, FORKLIFTS
7 DAYS FREE PICK-UP Phone Tiger or Ray 0800 668 833 027 433 3338 or 07 823 6500
WANTED TO LEASE
Lease Land Wanted
• Looking for lease land in the wider area. • Experienced operator • Young farming family based in Piopio wanting to grow our farming enterprise Anything considered
Ph Jason 021 02582142
10 Sheridan St, Te Kūiti An Assemblies of God church 10:30am Sunday
Grey Power King Country Members’ Meeting - all welcome Monday, 28th Sept @2pm - Te Kuiti Lyceum Club 4 Hinerangi Street, Te Kuiti Guest Speaker - Desiree, TK Community House, the RGM method Please bring a plate to share, and coin for raffles / sales table. please support! greypowerkingcountry@gmail.com 021 0887 8356.
10 St, Te Kuiti WeSheridan welcome you 10:30am Sunday to our Pastor Terry & 10.30am Rowena Bradley Sunday service. 10 Sheridan07 St, Te Kuiti 878 8694 www.journeychurch.org.nz Pastor Terry & Rowena Bradley 021 703 008 07 878 8694 021 703 008
King Country Christians An Assemblies of God Church meet every Sunday
An Assemblies of God Church in the Piopio Senior Citizens Hall, Weka Street, Piopio, at 10.30am
0211359346 John 021135946 0274 222 250 Phone Judy
Everyone is welcome!
Jim Goddin Funeral Director
A Farewell with Heart Every life deserves a meaningful farewell. Our compassionate, professional, and dedicated team is here to help, offering care and understanding when it matters most. Call us anytime – we’re here for you.
07 870 2137 262 Ohaupo Road, Te Awamutu www.rosetown.co.nz
16 |
King Country News
THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 24, 2026
Amio
S E PT EM BER 2026 I SSUE
STAY SAFE IN YOUR SWIMMING POOL THIS SUMMER!
Kia ora koutou,
With summer coming up and more people about to enjoy their backyard pools, it’s important to remember that pool safety starts with prevention. Sadly, young children remain at the highest risk around pools.
There has been plenty of conversation lately about the future of local government and what that could mean for our district. While we await the outcome of the joint Head Start proposal submitted by Ōtorohanga and Waitomo District Councils, our focus here at home remains firmly on our communities.
Under New Zealand law, any pool or spa that can hold 40cm of water or more must have a compliant safety barrier to prevent unsupervised access by children under five. This includes inflatable and above-ground pools, not just permanent in-ground ones.
At the same time, we’re looking ahead and beginning the important work on our next Long Term Plan. This is where we take a good look at what our district needs in the years ahead, what we need to invest in, and how we balance those priorities with what our community can afford.
A secure fence, gate and latch system is one of the most effective ways to prevent accidental drownings.
MAYOR’S MESSAGE
There are still some unknowns around what local government may look like in the future, but we can’t stand still while we wait. We need to keep planning, making good decisions and ensuring Ōtorohanga District is well positioned for whatever comes next.
Building Consent approval is required prior to the construction of swimming pool fencing. Learn more at www.building.govt.nz/guidance-for-poolowners MORE INFO www.otodc.govt.nz/pool-regulations
As always, we’ll keep you informed as both pieces of work progress and there will be opportunities for our community to have their say. Ngā mihi nui,
Mayor of Ōtorohanga District
UPCOMING COUNCIL MEETINGS Members of the public are welcome to attend Council and Community Board meetings. Ōtorohanga Community Board Council Chambers, 17 Maniapoto Street, Ōtorohanga
MEETING CANCELLED
Kāwhia Community Board Kāwhia Community Hall, 141 Jervois Street, Kāwhia
Thursday 1 October 4.00pm
Elected Member Workshops Council Chambers, 17 Maniapoto Street, Ōtorohanga
Thursday 13 October 9.00am
Council Meeting Council Chambers, 17 Maniapoto Street, Ōtorohanga
Tues 29 Sept and Tues 27 Oct 9.00am
Agendas and meeting information are available on our website closer to each meeting date.
TEMPORARY OTEWA ROAD/ GORGE CLOSURE Our contractors Inframax are carrying out essential repair work on Otewa Road/Gorge, following the February 2026 severe floods in Ōtorohanga. Otewa Road/Gorge will therefore be closed from 28 September 2026 (Monday to Friday 8am-5pm). This will be for an estimated six weeks (subject to weather) to enable this work. The detour route is Maihiihi Road. We greatly appreciate the patience of our community, and will complete the repair work as soon as possible.
RESOURCE CONSENTS, DISTRICT PLANS… CONFUSED ALREADY? YOU’RE NOT THE ONLY ONE! You don’t need to figure it all out by yourself – we’re here to help. If you’re planning a building or land use activity in Ōtorohanga District, book a free meeting with our planning team to find out if you need a resource consent or building consent. Talking to us early can save time, stress and money!
INVITATION TO PARENTS: UNDERSTANDING DYSLEXIA AND SUPPORTING LITERACY AT HOME We invite all parents to join us for an enlightening session on “Understanding Dyslexia and Other Reading and Writing Difficulties,” aimed at equipping you with practical strategies to support your child’s literacy development at home. This event celebrates Dyslexia Week and highlights the importance of understanding and addressing literacy challenges. Join us for this informative workshop featuring expert insights from Louise Payne of Learning Matters and Emma Telfer Learning Support Co-ordinator. They will share valuable techniques and resources to help parents foster a supportive learning environment at home. You will discover practical ways to enhance your child’s reading and writing skills, build confidence, and develop effective habits that can make a difference in their academic journey. This event is a fantastic opportunity to connect with other parents, share experiences, and learn from specialists in the field. Together, we can create a nurturing and empowering atmosphere for our children. Date: Monday 12th September Time: 5.15-7pm Don’t miss out on this chance to make a positive impact on your child’s literacy journey. We look forward to seeing you there! Check out what you can do at the library today! Visit: www.otodc.govt.nz/our-district/libraries
We can meet you to discuss your proposal at the Council office in Ōtorohanga, or talk over the phone or by video. We also recommend you get your own expert help if your project is complex. Book here: www.otodc.govt.nz/pre-applicationmeeting-request Enquiries: email info@otodc.govt.nz
STAYING SAFE: REFRESHER COURSE FOR OLDER DRIVERS
Come to a FREE classroom-based driving refresher run by NZTA and Age Concern, with support from Ōtorohanga District Council. This will help if you’ve had your licence for decades but never refreshed your Road Code knowledge. The session will include what changes to road layout and signs mean and much more. When: Monday 9 November from 9.45am - 2pm. Where: St John Ambulance Station training room, 11 Kakamutu Rd, Ōtorohanga. ENROLMENTS ESSENTIAL: Contact the Age Concern Waikato team. Phone: 07 838 2266. Email: enquiries@ageconcernwaikato.org.nz
Ōtorohanga District Council | 17 Maniapoto St, Ōtorohanga 0800 734 000 or 07 873 4000 | www.otodc.govt.nz