Te Awamutu News | April 30, 2026

Kuriger: It wasn’t me

By Dan Tasker

Taranaki–King Country MP

Barbara Kuriger is denying rumours she is one of five National MPs leaking information about Prime Minister Chris Luxon to the media.

Last week Luxon put his National Party leadership to the test with a motion of confidence vote at a caucus meeting in Wellington, which he survived.

But later in the week, Newstalk ZB named Kuriger along with Joseph Mooney, Andrew Bayly, Sam Uffindell and Tim van de Molen as the National culprits leaking information to the media.

Kuriger, who attended Tuesday’s meeting, told The News she denies any part in the leaking allegations and is fully supportive of Luxon continuing as National’s leader.

“(Luxon’s) the leader and we’ve chosen him as the leader and he’s gone through the confidence vote the other day, so absolutely I support him. We’re all there for the same reason; we have a leader and we support him on the way through,” Kuriger said.

“I was really disappointed with Newstalk to put my name up there without first asking me. I’ve had a couple of mainstream journalists ask me in Wellington and I’ve just said categorically no. I only talk openly to the media, I don’t go round little corners.

“I went back to the Hosking Show and said, ‘You should have asked me before you published my name, because I don’t know who your source was, but they’ve got it wrong. It’s misinformation,” she said.

National has steadily been on the slide in the polls, with most having them under the 30 percent threshold, which Kuriger believes is driving the uneasiness in the party as it moves towards the November 7 election.

“I won’t talk about what happened in the caucus room, but I would say it was a pretty tense time. It’s public knowledge that the PM put himself up for a vote of confidence, that’s always going to be tense,” Kuriger said.

“There’s a lot of people in caucus who look at the polls and everybody’s worried, everyone

wants to be back in government. There’s a lot of people that are on the list and on tight seats and there’s a lot of concern.”

As she draws to end of her fourth term as an MP after being first elected in 2014, Kuriger has not been spared from the controversy and drama that often comes with politics.

In 2020, she publicly defended her son Tony after he was found guilty of ill-treating cows while managing a farm in Eketahuna three years earlier.

This led to Kuriger contesting a personal dispute connected to

Past and present

Anzac ceremonies throughout Waipa and the Northern King Country underlined the importance communities in the Good Local Media circulation area continue to place on the service men and women who have protected the nation for more than a century.

Hundreds attended dawn and civic services in Waipa and hundred more marked Anzac Day at in-house services.

Speakers noted ongoing conflict and Cambridge RSA chaplain Ants Hawes told the dawn service in Cambridge “war is just that little bit more real all of a sudden, isn’t it?”

While acknowledging the past, services also acknowledged the present - in Te Awamutu Anna Swney, head student at Te Awamutu College spoke of the Anzac spirit and the importance of keeping it alive and learning the stories.

• See further Anzac stories on pages 2 and 3 and at goodlocal.nz

her son’s case with the Ministry for Primary Industries, which was identified as a conflict of interest and resulted in her resigning from her agriculture, biosecurity and food safety portfolios.

She was also in parliament following the golden years under former Prime Minister John Key, when National’s popularity tanked as leaders Simon Bridges, Todd Muller and Judith Collins came and went.

“I was actually the senior whip in the party when Simon Bridges was up for a challenge and I know

Continued on page 7

Robert awarded his medal

By Jesse Wood

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More than half a century after completing his service, Robert Burn, 82, received his long-awaited New Zealand Defence Service Medal with a CMT (compulsory military training) clasp at Radius Windsor Court, Ōhaupō on Friday.

Resident Mark Hurrell, who served in the New Zealand military, took centre stage to read the Ode of Remembrance before a speech on the wartime nurses of WWI. He joined the Royal New Zealand Corps of Transport at the age of 18 and worked his way up from driver to sergeant.

RSA volunteer support worker Lance King led the event and spoke of the many conflicts that had followed the two world wars including the Korean War, the Malayan emergency, the Indonesian confrontation in Borneo, the Vietnam War, the Gulf War, Afghanistan and East Timor conflicts.

“Let us not forget these military personnel. They have also contributed to the peace and stability of our two Anzac nations. Their sacrifice has also been enormous,” Lance said.

In congratulating Robert Burns he explained the New Zealand Defence Service Medal was instituted in 2011 to recognise service since September 1945.

“Well done, Robert. We’d like to congratulate you and if there are any other people out here like Robert, who had no idea that he was entitled to the defence service medal, you need to step forward and take it.

“It’s something that he can now hand onto his children and grandchildren.”

Robert William Burn, rank driver and service number 368287, completed his compulsory military training having joined on May 6,1964 and finished on August 31, 1970.

Wife Lorraine’s family came from Auckland to celebrate.

RSA district support advisor Irene Wardlaw and RSA volunteer support worker Linda King presented Robert with his medal.

Lance and Linda had sent the medal application to the New Zaland Defence Force in Wellington after Easter weekend.

“We knew Robert had been in compulsory military training for over three years, so he

Spirit shines through

It was great to see such a strong turnout at the Anzac Civic Services on Saturday morning. Waipā continues to show impressive community spirit and civic pride.

On Tuesday morning, Strategic Traffic Senior Constable Walker and Constable McDermott took part in a safety initiative on Victoria Street, Cambridge, alongside Waipā District Council. The focus was on promoting ‘Lights on Bikes’ for visibility and safety. Free front and rear bike lights were handed out. They are ideal for helping our tamariki stay visible during the winter months and the children were very appreciative.

Staying with the topic of bicycles, I’ve been asked to highlight the importance of using cycle lanes where they are available. For example, when children are travelling from the high-level bridge to Cambridge Primary or Cambridge Middle School, the purposebuilt cycleway offers a much safer option by providing separation from traffic. A reminder too that helmets are legally required and play a significant role in reducing injury if a crash occurs.

We also continue to receive feedback about the speed of escooters travelling through Cambridge. As mentioned previously, escooters are capable of high speeds, and with any vehicle, increased speed brings increased risk. While helmets are not currently a legal requirement for escooters, the potential for

was entitled to it,” Linda said.

“They then had to search the information that we gave. They found it was true and correct and sent the medal to us so it could be a surprise for Robert.

“He was in tears I noticed. He was proud of the fact that he got the medal and so are we.”

serious injury is high, arguably higher than on a bicycle. I strongly recommend wearing one. As when riding a bike, a helmet hanging from the handlebars offers no protection at all.

Parents, please talk to your children about safe riding if they have an escooter. They should be travelling at low speeds through the CBD and adjusting their speed to suit conditions.

Swerving around pedestrians can cause unnecessary alarm and risk, especially for older members of our community. Even when the route ahead appears clear, someone may step out of a shop, driveway or come around a corner unexpectedly.

Under the Land Transport Act 1998, any person aged 15 or over who operates a vehicle—including some highpowered escooters—in a manner likely to cause injury or annoyance to any person, property, or animal may face a fine of $600. This is worth keeping in mind.

Finally, on the traffic topic, over the past week, Cambridge staff dealt with four drivers with excess breath alcohol and two traffic crashes.

Te Awamutu staff also dealt with two drivers with excess breath alcohol and two crashes. If you are going to drink, then plan ahead and arrange a ride home.

Maher to chair

Waikato Regional Council

chair Warren Maher has been confirmed as cochair of the Hauraki Gulf Forum joining tangata whenua cochair Nicola RataMacDonald. The forum brings together central and local government, mana whenua and key agencies to coordinate management of the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park.

On stage

Felix Rowe from Te Awamutu and Zara Thompson and Zac Clarke from Cambridge feature in the production of Next to Normal which goes on stage at the Meteor Theatre in Hamilton on May 1.

New president

Taupiri dairy farmer Chris Woolerton has succeeded Phil Sherwood as president of Federated Farmers Waikato. The former Waikato District councillor leads the largest of the organisation’s 24 provinces.

Money issues

Funding pressure on Civil Defence is emerging as an issue for Waikato Regional Council as it works within tighter rates constraints. Councillors have been told expectations around emergency preparedness and response are growing, but Civil Defence must compete with other core services at a time when councillors are signalling caution over further rates increases.

Sessions funded

The annual Gumboot Friday in March raised funds to provide 3400 counselling sessions for 2059 people aged five to 25.

New book

Ōhaupō’s Ruth Taylor, who trains adults and children in communication, conflict management and leadership skills, has published a fourth book, Self-Care Isn’t Selfish. The book examines self-care strategies.

A unison of remembrance

By Jesse Wood

Veterans marched down Te Awamutu’s Mutu Street, and a secondary school student was guest speaker.

Hundreds of all ages gathered in Te Awamutu, Kihikihi, Ōhaupō, Kāwhia for moving services to mark Anzac Day on Saturday.

The dawn parade and service at Te Awamutu and District War Memorial Park was followed by services at Te Awamutu Services Cemetery, Kihikihi, Ōhaupō, Kāwhia and Albert Park. It was a unison of remembrance across the community.

Several hundred people gathered at Te Awamutu & Districts War Memorial Park at the crack of dawn.

Te Awamutu College head student

Anna Swney shared a message at both the dawn service and later the civic service which attracted several hundred people.

She shared the story of Sergeant Albert “Doolan” Downing, 29, one of the two All Blacks to fall at Gallipoli.

Rugby was “in his blood” as with many others who fought at Gallipoli.

“In August 1914, 23 All Blacks were on their way home after playing with the Metropolitan Union in Sydney,” Swney said. “All 23 All Blacks made a pact to serve their country due to the beginning of WWI.

“Among them was Downing. Downing attended Napier Boys’ High School and was a passionate rugby player. He played for the Magpies for four seasons and then played in Auckland.

“He was a member of the 1913 Ranfurly Shield winning Auckland team and had the shield tattooed on his left forearm, because it was a part of him.

“As the Anzac troops rested from Gallipoli, they played rugby on the Greek island Limnos. They would play on the beach at low tide, using a football instead of a rugby ball and drawing a field in the sand.

“The Anzac troops held onto what was important to them, determined not to lose themselves. Throughout all the fighting, they still managed to find some light in the dark.”

About 100 people gathered at Kihikihi. At least 87 Kihikihiconnected men served in WWI and the Gibson family were among those remembered.

Frank and Marion Gibson who ran the post office at Wharepuhanga had five sons and two daughters.

“In WWI, four of their sons volunteered to serve overseas. Only two would return,” Peter Emery said. “In 1914, Trooper Noel Pairman Gibson was the first of the brothers to go to war and the first to die.

“On August 28, 1915, shortly after celebrating his 22nd birthday at Chunuk Bair, Noel was killed in action during the attack of Hill 60. His body was never recovered.”

Older brother Trooper George Wallace Gibson enlisted in August 1915. Just before Noel’s death. Less than a year later, he was killed in battle at Suez Canal.

Both brothers are remembered on the Kihikihi cenotaph and in Te Awamutu

But as Emery shared, the returning brothers Frederick and Albert didn’t necessarily have the best quality of life.

Albert died in Goodna Asylum, Brisbane in 1929. He suffered from PTSD or “shellshock”, something that was misunderstood at the time.

“For Marion Gibson, the loss of her sons George and Noel was a grief she carried for the rest of her life. She found comfort in writing poetry for her boys,” Emery said.

RSA executive member and MC Adan Te Huia said before the war, the Gibson family had hope for the future.

“Their sons worked as farmers, as stockman and as a surveyor’s chainman. They were building a life to pass on. But the war changed everything,” Te Huia said. “Two sons were killed in action. One died later far from home after suffering the lasting effects of war.

“Of Frank and Marion Gibson’s seven children, only three, Frank junior and their two daughters, went on to have families of their own. It is said that Marion Jean Gibson died of a broken heart at the sacrifice her family made.”

Te Awamutu RSA president

Daniel van der Hulst later addressed servicemen and women at civic service telling them, “you are seen, you are valued and you belong”.

“If you serviced one day in unform, in our eyes you are a veteran – the RSA provides a place for all. When veterans stand together, we honour the past and shape the future.”

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Sam’s five church role

By Viv Posselt

The newly-installed vicar at Te Awamutu’s St

John’s Anglican parish, Rev Sam Pullenger, knows he is facing an unusual challenge as Anglican parishes go.

Most Anglican parishes have one church. St John’s has five ... the Old St John’s Church and St John’s in Te Awamutu, St Paul’s Church in Rangiaowhia, and churches in Pirongia and Kihikihi.

“That means we have five congregations, some of which may feel on the margins,” he said. “One of my hopes is for us to see ourselves as a more unified parish, so we are all together, simply St John’s.”

After recent storms delayed his service, Sam was finally installed as St John’s new vicar on April 19. It was a solemn event, overseen jointly by his predecessor, Archdeacon Rev Julie Guest, and the Archdeacon Rev Andrew Evans. Sam described it as “an exciting and hopefilled time for both the diocese and the parish”. He has stepped into Julie Guest’s shoes – she

is now focusing on her role as Archdeacon of Waitomo. The strain she encountered trying to juggle her role as St John’s vicar and that of Archdeacon of Waitomo is what saw her step down and is, in part, what Sam alludes to in addressing the topic of unifying five churches and five congregations.

Acknowledging the whole while embracing the differences within each is what he wants to do … so is the management of trying to physically get to services across the district with very little time between each.

“I would like to be fully present at, and after, both services without having to rush in between. I’m looking at ways I can adjust that.”

Sam is also following on from Julie in continuing as one of Te Awamutu News’ regular columnists.

There is a youthful zeal that sits alongside Sam’s seriousness. He is a young dad whose wife Josie teaches at Cambridge Primary School. Family time is all-important, and he intends guarding it closely.

Sam was born in Te

Awamutu, grew up and went to school in Cambridge, a lad who always enjoyed studying the Bible. He remembers being nervous when a youth pastor gave him the chance to preach.

“I was 16 and I was so terrified that I asked them to sing the chorus once more so I’d have less time on stage.”

After taking his first tertiary level paper with Carey Baptist College during his last year at Cambridge High – the first in his family to go to university – he was set. His training took him to various centres, including Pathways Bible College, the Te Awamutu Bible College, and Capernwray outside Cambridge. He studied and worked simultaneously, across various types of worship.

After marrying in 2016, the Pullengers moved to Tauranga for Josie’s work and he decided to add to his undergraduate degree with a Masters in Applied Theology.

Keen to travel before settling down, they went to Al Ain in Abu Dhabi, from where they hoped to see a bit of the world.

“Then Covid hit… we

spent two years there and saw very little else!”

When they came home in 2021, Josie joined Cambridge Primary and Sam took an interim job as a delivery driver at Heathcotes, something he says he ‘loved’.

“It was so nice to drive around the green of the Waikato after being in the desert.”

The couple settled in Te Awamutu and Sam joined St John’s as ministry

Still pedalling a decade later

By Mary Anne Gill

Sarah Ulmer’s face said it all - slightly sunburned, beaming with pride and excitement that the Cambridge Cycling Festival, celebrating its 10th year, had been a resounding success.

More than 550 children and top-class cyclists competed on Anzac Day, watched by crowds drawn to the Village Green and Cambridge CBD by the racing, glorious early-autumn conditions, a bouncy castle, food and drink stalls and, to cap it off, five children winning new bikes in a lucky draw.

Ulmer, an Olympic Games gold-medal cyclist, is not the only one behind the festival. An impressive team of volunteers from Bicycle Revolution Cambridge were on hand to support the woman described on the organisation’s website as director of nothing in particular.

assistant to Julie. Last year, he was ordained deacon, then priested to St John’s last November. Sam’s experience in community churches has broadened his view, but it is in the Anglican faith that he has settled. He likes the welcome and the liturgical nature of service that means people of all persuasions and ages find comfort in the rhythm, the easy passing back and forth of familiar phrases.

The day began at 12.55pm with the Last Post and national anthems before the festival shifted into full gear.

From the first pedal stroke to the final cheer, the streets and the Village Green came alive. Eager young riders lined up in the age-group races - under-5s, 5–7s and 8–10s - eyes wide, helmets snug, legs ready to fly.

The Battle of the Schools and an aerial BMX display gave way to the fast bikes, with many of the country’s top cyclists competing in the A, B and C grade criterium races, bringing lycra, speed, strategy and athletic brilliance to Victoria and Alpha streets.

See your GP if:

• your symptoms last longer than a few weeks, or interfere with your ability to function

• your sleep partner tells you that you snore or gasp loudly during the night

• you’re taking a new medicine that you suspect is interrupting your sleep

• you feel very sleepy or tired during the day, even if you slept 7 hours the night before

• you sleepwalk, act out your dreams, or otherwise make abnormal movements during the night. Adapted from Healthify.nz

Surprise storms

By Janine Krippner

Last week I woke up to find a set of MetService weather alerts on my phone. Safe in my Wellington apartment, I was unaware of the chaos that had erupted nearby. Residents woke in the dark to flood waters through their homes. The saturated landscape was under pressure and landslides were occurring, one through a home.

More than 70mm of rain within an hour fell on one part of Wellington. Homes, cars, belongings, and businesses were damaged. Tragically, a life was also lost. Real lives, real impacts.

Early damage estimates are within the tens to hundreds of millions of dollars.

This damaging storm hit two days after flooding in the nearby Hutt Valley. That was not long after Cyclone Vaianu. That was not long after devastating fatalities resulted from storm-related landslides and flooding across the region, including the landslide at Mount Maunganui. Our own Waipā district saw the gut-wrenching loss of Brent Knowles. And that was not long after we saw damaging landslides across the Waitomo District last October.

I think it is safe to say that flooding and landslides are processes we should all be very aware of. Broadly speaking, are they really surprise storms at this point? We know there will be more.

A key message of this column has been a reminder that events strike with little to no warning and turn upside down. We are not powerless.

On every level there are actions we can take, from our national government to our local councils, businesses to households, and us – the individuals.

One theme of events here and around the world is how communities come together to support those who are impacted. We see friends and strangers unite for the clean-up, some with shovels, others bringing food.

One story of someone getting help to evacuate their elderly neighbour from her flooded home last week exemplifies this. It’s a powerful reminder that getting to know our neighbours can make a difference – it can even be lifesaving.

Something we can all do now is remind ourselves of landslide warning signs. Along with others, I have recently shared what to watch out for.

Check to see if you live in a flood-prone area, especially if you have recently moved. In times of flooding water and debris may be contaminated, so take care to protect yourself during and afterwards.

Have a plan. Talk with your household about what you would do if you were separated, such as if an event strikes during the work/school day.

What do you do if something hits in the middle of the night? Where can you evacuate to? Do you have neighbours who might need assistance?

Simple conversations, planning, and preparation done now can make a huge difference later.

All my love to those who have lost family members, homes, belongings, animals, or businesses in these recent storms. If you want to help with the Wellington storm recovery, the Mayoral Relief Fund has been set up to support those who were impacted.

TREES AND POWERLINES

TREE TRIMMING DANGERS

Trimming trees near power lines can be extremely dangerous, and even deadly.

Contact with a power line can cause:

• Injury or death to yourself, family, community members or livestock

• Damage to property

• Damage to power supply facilities and electrical appliances

• Damage to third parties.

Before attempting to clear tree foliage near live conductors you should contact us for advice.

Branch movement: Although tree foliage can sometimes appear to be at a safe distance from the lines, once you begin the work, the tree may move due to pressure placed on branches, random gusts of wind and other external factors.

Be aware of any tree branches that may flick up as they are trimmed or as surrounding branches are cleared.

Wet weather: Branches often hang lower when the leaves are wet, so if it starts to rain, or if the leaves are already wet you should expect some movement.

Debris: Ensure there is clear space to allow for debris when tree trimming.

ELECTRICITY REGULATIONS

The Electricity (Hazards from Trees) Regulations 2003 set out the responsibilities of tree owners and lines companies in relation to trees and power lines. Waipā Networks has developed procedures to meet these regulations, summarised below:

• If we become aware of a tree that you are responsible for within the Notice Zone, you may be issued with a Hazard Warning Notice.

The problem with growing up

By Phil Strong, Proprietor Chair, Waipa Christian School

The world of a two-year-old is wonderfully simple. All meals supplied, comfort on tap, and your biggest decision of the moment is “green crayon or red?” As for the future - two days from now feels like it may never come.

I’ve been spending time lately at Creators Early Childhood Centre, supporting the team through a change of ownership. It’s the sort of shift many of us frequently navigate - new faces, new rhythms, quiet uncertainty behind the scenes.

My role is simply to show up, check in, and help steady the ground.

At first, the kids were wide-eyed and a little cautious about a new face - especially one attached to an older man - and even the kaiako were a little taken aback. It’s fair to say I’m not the usual candidate for a miniature chair and a rousing rendition of “Twinkle Twinkle”.

Aren’t kids so special the way they see without suspicion, trust without negotiation, and welcome you into their world of neverending discovery?

There’s something disarming about that kind of openness. Confronting, even. Because somewhere along the way, we lose it. We call it maturity, but often it’s just welldressed anxiety.

We adults complicate life beyond necessity; stressing over what we can’t control and inserting ourselves into things that were never ours to carry.

And we carry a constant burden of fear of what other people may be thinking about us (even when they aren’t actually thinking about us.)

Adulthood is often just sophistication without peace. Children don’t live like that.

• If we become aware of a tree you are responsible for within the Growth Limit Zone, you will be issued with a Cut or Trim Notice.

• You must have the tree trimmed so that it no longer encroaches the Notice Zone or Growth Limit Zone. Dispensation can be applied for if there is a valid reason for the tree to be allowed to grow within the Notice or Growth Limit Zones.

• We’ll trim a tree free of charge provided it is the first trim. Any further trimming is the responsibility of the owner.

• At any stage, you can declare ‘No Interest’ in a tree on our network and we will meet the costs of any future trimming, or may decide to remove the tree altogether.

• Where we become aware of a tree close to the lines and likely to cause danger to the public or property we have the ability to remove the tree or branch causing the hazard.

THERE ARE RULES ABOUT SAFE DISTANCES BETWEEN TREES AND POWER LINES

In the Zone

The regulations define four zones:

Growth Limit Zone: This is the minimum distance that trees must be kept clear of overhead power lines.

Cut-Back Zone: This zone ensures vegetation is trimmed back far enough to prevent it from quickly growing into the Growth Limit Zone.

Notice Zone: We will issue a notice if vegetation is in this zone to give property owners time to address the risk earlier before it becomes urgent.

Clear to the Sky: This is the area above 33kv and high voltage lines that must be kept clear. Fall Hazard Zone: Trees present a hazard if they fall and damage power lines. A tree’s fall hazard

And, it turns out, they’re closer to the truth than we are.

In the days of Jesus even His friends quizzed Him on who would be the greatest in His kingdom. It seems mankind has been selfaggrandising since ages ago. His answer wasn’t sentimental. It was confronting. He drew a child from the crowd before them and said, “unless you turn and become as a child, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven”.

It’s the kind of sentence we nod at - and quietly ignore - yet it points to the doorway to eternity.

Jesus isn’t applauding innocence. He’s commanding a return.

He’s calling us to a life marked by humility, trust, and complete dependence on God - rather than the exhausting pursuit of self-importance. Not childishness, but childlikeness. There’s a difference.

The other day, I was standing just outside the office - in what feels like the mildly chaotic, definitely “unsafe” realm of the children - when I felt something latch onto my leg.

A small boy had attached himself with quiet determination. No introduction. No hesitation. Just clinging. It felt like he was saying, “I see, you, I trust you, I’m with you.”

What might it take for us adults to “turn,” as Jesus puts it - to return, to come back, to reorient our lives entirely?

Perhaps the purpose of life looks less like climbing higher - and more like clinging tighter to the One we’ve learned to outgrow.

The Notice and Growth Limit Zone requirements increase if the adjacent power line span is greater than 150m. In these cases, we will notify you of your obligations.

For further information contact our Vegetation Team 07 872 0745 or trees@waipānetworks.co.nz

It’s Kuriger v Pattemore

By Dan Tasker

National and Labour have confirmed their candidates for the Taranaki–King Country seat.

Incumbent Barbara Kuriger was confirmed as National’s candidate last week to contest the seat in her fifth election race.

Her nearest competition is likely to come from Labour’s recently-confirmed candidate David Pattemore.

Former list MP Angela Roberts, who has previously contested Taranaki-King Country will fight for Labour in Whanganui.

Pattemore, a 46-year-old ecologist from Tauwhare, has a background in conservation work with Forest and Bird, and a PhD in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology from his time at Princeton University in the United States.

His grounding in conservation and interest in indigenous people goes back to his upbringing in India and Thailand through the 1980s and early 1990s.

His father was born to missionary parents in India and returned there to teach just before Pattemore was born, before moving to live with his mother’s missionary

parents on Thailand’s Andaman coast where he was raised with the indigenous Urak Lawoi tribe.

After moving to New Zealand in 1995, he studied and worked for Forest and Bird. His first exposure to politics came while volunteering for Labour’s Waikato candidate Jamie Toko at the last election.

“I’ve had the privilege of doing quite a bit of work through that whole area from Te Kūiti down through Pureora – places like that. It’s really neat to now get the opportunity to get to know it even more and the people in

the towns,” Pattemore said. Pattemore said he wanted to contribute to pushing back against a division that has been sown and believes the traditional National stronghold he is standing in is open to change.

“People have pitched it as being farmers for National and city folk for Labour. The reality is when I go around the farmers I know, it’s not like they’re just going to vote blue no matter what. They’re really engaged and want to know what the parties have to offer for them.”

History is against him as he seeks to overcome the

New council energy strategy

By Mary Anne Gill

Waikato Regional Council is poised to adopt a new energy strategy today (Thursday) that could shape the region’s economic and environmental direction for decades and position Waikato as a national leader in the transition to renewable energy.

The strategy is coming forward as national energy settings continue to evolve and sets out how the region could move toward a low-emissions, affordable and resilient energy system.

Waikato is already New Zealand’s leading electricity generation region and the strategy positions it as an important

contributor as the country transitions its energy mix.

Huntly, Tokoroa and the TaupōWairakei area are identified as priority locations for renewable energy development, reflecting existing assets and infrastructure. The strategy points to the region’s long-established hydro and geothermal generation, alongside growing interest in solar and wind projects.

It also highlights emerging technologies such as hydrogen and battery storage and calls for better coordination around infrastructure investment and workforce skills. Electrification of transport and industrial

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energy use, including the decarbonisation of process heat, features prominently.

A central proposal is for the council to take a convening rather than a delivery role, bringing iwi, industry, government and major energy users together through a regional energy forum to help align effort and track progress.

Councillors are expected to scrutinise what that role would mean in practice. While the strategy is non-statutory, establishing and maintaining a regional energy forum would require staff time and coordination, and debate is likely to focus on what work can be absorbed within existing budgets and what might require new funding.

National stronghold, which has been blue since well before the election system went to MMP in 1996. Former Prime Minister the late Jim Bolger, then Shane Ardern and now Kuriger have had the seat under lock and key.

Kuriger said she continued to be driven to be a rural voice in Wellington, hopeful of retaining her deputy speaker’s role and a receiving a ministerial portfolio all things going well.

“I love the electorate; I just think rural people are fantastic and to be able to go there and be the representative of people in Taranaki-King Country is something I really enjoy.

“When I went there, I wondered how much

Kuriger: It wasn’t

Continued from page 1

how all of those things run, and the last thing I would do is run to the media and be someone who causes trouble along the way,” Kuriger said.

“Some of the experienced people have seen these things happen before and know how damaging it is to a party when we start talking about ourselves instead of talking about the people of New Zealand.

“We’ve got a lot of new MPs as well and with the predictions of the polls currently, if they don’t improve, we’re going to lose 12 MPs. You can imagine people embarking on a big political career and then being really concerned about how long will it last?,” she said.

Mothers Day

Croquet and High Tea

Sunday 10th May 10am or 1.30pm $35 per person

High Tea Only - 10 am and 2.30 pm

All welcome no experience required.

All equipment and instructions provided.

Te Awamutu Croquet Club

390 Bank Street

For reservations please email: tacroquetevents@gmail.com or phone/text: 0211 750 999

Waipa Workingmens Club

Great people, great food, great atmosphere. Enjoy what the club has to offer!

JOIN NOW FOR MEMBERSHIP

Council could walk away

By Mary Anne Gill

Waikato Regional Council is set for another finely balanced debate today (Thursday) when councillors consider whether to remain a member of Local Government New Zealand (LGNZ), a decision that could again come down to the chair’s casting vote.

LGNZ representatives will appear before councillors at the start of the meeting as a deputation, signalling the importance attached to the issue.

Their presentation precedes a notice of motion, lodged by councillor Noel Smith and listed late in the agenda, calling for a rethink of the council’s membership.

Withdrawing from LGNZ, they say, is a tangible way to show the council is serious about trimming expenditure.

The Rates Control Team consists of councillors Gary McGuire, Chris Hughes, Ben Dunbar-Smith, Garry Reymer, Robert Cookson, Mich’eal Downard and council chair Warren Maher. The group has also promoted other measures, including capping rate increases below CPI and returning a $2.5 million surplus to ratepayers.

Reymer is one of two Waipā-King Country councillors. The other is Liz Stolwyk who is understood to favour staying in LGNZ.

to exercise a casting vote, like his predecessor Pamela Storey did last year before the local body elections.

The discussion will reopen a fault line that has divided the council since the 2022 elections, pitting those who see LGNZ membership as essential for collective advocacy against a group focused on cutting costs and reining in rates.

LGNZ’s decision to seek time on the agenda underscores what is at stake. The organisation has been actively engaging with councils considering withdrawal, emphasising the benefits of collective representation at a time of significant reform across local government.

Club Facilities and Member Benefits

• Plenty of off street parking

• Plenty of off street parking

• Courtesy Van

• Delicious Food By Rafters

• Rafters Restaurant

• Full TAB Ser vice

• Full TAB Service

• Gaming Lounge

• Gaming Lounge

Club Benefits

• Covered outdoor dining area

• Members Draw Nights

• Meat Raffles

• Venue Hire at discounted rates

That latter group - known as the Rates Control Team - has made fiscal restraint a central plank of its platform. Members of the team argue LGNZ membership fees, estimated at about $120,000 a year, represent discretionary spending at a time when ratepayers are facing ongoing cost-of-living pressures.

Those opposed to leaving argue the annual fee delivers value well beyond its cost. They point to LGNZ’s role in coordinating sector-wide submissions to government, providing training and governance support, and giving councils a stronger, unified voice on national policy issues such as water reform, climate adaptation funding and central government mandates.

The Waikato Regional Council has 14 elected members - 12 from general constituencies and two Māori seats. If all councillors were at the meeting and seven voted for and seven against, Maher would have

The concern is that Waikato could lose influence at the national table by stepping away.

For those backing withdrawal, the issue is chiefly one of principle and perception - demonstrating to ratepayers that no line of expenditure is beyond review.

Council papers provide no staff recommendation on the notice of motion, leaving the decision squarely in councillors’ hands.

• Pool and Snooker Tables

• Pool and Snooker Tables

• Covered outdoor dining area

• Dartboards

• Dartboards

• Courtesy Van

• Range of Social and sports groups available

• Kids Zone with gaming consoles and foosball table

• Members Draw Nights

• Live Entertainment

• Meat Raffles

• Venue Hire at discounted rates

COMMUNITY BOARD COMMENT

• Best place to watch sport

• Multi areas to view sports channels at once

• Range of Social and sports groups available

Get in touch or simply fill out our online membership form at www.waipawmc.co.nz

Membership includes reciprocal visiting rights to other Clubs NZ clubs across New Zealand

Club Opening Hours

Monday 1pm – 8pm

Tuesday 1pm – 10pm

Wednesday 1pm – 8pm

Thursday 1pm – 11pm

Friday 1pm – 11pm Saturday 10am – 11pm Sunday 12pm – 8pm 07 871 3923

Things are looking up

By Ange Holt, Chair, Te Awamutu Community Board

Te Awamutu is already looking brighter thanks to the fantastic work of the new Keep Te Awamutu Beautiful Group, who have been painting over unsightly graffiti in a number of prominent locations.

We are extremely fortunate to have this group supporting our businesses and our town by taking on this important task.

On behalf of the community, the Community Board extends its sincere thanks to everyone involved. It is encouraging to see how quickly positive change can happen when the community is empowered to make it happen.

There has also been some welcome tidying up around town, with the old fence and bollards in front of the Sculpture Park carpark being renewed and the old entrance gates to Albert Park refurbished. Hopefully, we can keep the momentum going and turn our attention to tidying some of the Main Street next.

The GT Civil team is nearing completion of its work installing new water pipes and repairing older infrastructure.

We are sure many people are looking forward to seeing the roads return to normal around town.

In Kihikihi Turātā Reserve will soon receive new signage to replace the old Ratatu signs. These are due to be unveiled at the end of the week.

If you are keen to see them, please pop down after Friday.

The Community Board has been developing a strategic plan to guide us through the remainder of our term. This

is currently with the council group managers for feedback and support and will then come to a board meeting for formal adoption. While we are not taking on any major projects at this stage, we are hoping to utilise existing maintenance budgets to achieve visible improvements around town.

A key focus is the CBD, particularly Alexandra Street. This will include refurbishing the street furniture, removing the pots and modernising some of the plantings. In addition, I understand that the Keep Te Awamutu Beautiful Group are keen to get some more murals on the blank sides of some of our buildings. So, if these both happen, it will give Te Awamutu CBD a well overdue lift.

Another project that is coming onto our agenda this week is a potential upgrade of the Rose Garden. This has long been a key attraction in Te Awamutu with its extensive number of different roses attracting people from around the country for many years. It too is overdue for a refresh, and we will be considering how we can best support the community groups that are directly involved.

Finally, as advocates of waste minimisation we would like to remind everyone that the E-waste collection run by Urban Miners is back again on Sunday at the Te Awamutu Rugby and Sports Carpark from 9am to 11am. Old electronics, such as phones, wiring, computers, televisions and monitors can be dropped off for a small fee.

Rugby and remembrance

By Jesse Wood

Anzac Day was commemorated on and off the rugby pitch across the Waipā district on Saturday.

A small remembrance was run by Te Awamutu RSA representatives and Reverend Murray Olson prior to the Te Awamutu Sports v Fraser Tech clashes on Albert Park. The Tech premier side, containing Waikato and Manu Samoa number 10 D’Angelo Leuila, just got the better of the hosts 26-22.

Caleb Wright grabbed a double for Te Awamutu and fullback Leo Scott scored the other 12 points.

Former Te Awamutu subunion prop Jonas Pomare was one of the four scorers for the victors.

Hautapu premiers had a win by default as they were named to face the withdrawn Melville team.

In the earlier match, Te Awamutu Sports premier development fell 51-19 to Fraser Tech B. An increasingly common occurrence saw flanker Dylan Jeffries cross the chalk for Sports B.

Veteran Ben Mylchreest and midfielder Keiton MacDonald grabbed Sports’ other tries, with George Poolman adding two conversions.

Hautapu B dealt to their Melville counterparts in Hamilton, 43-7.

Wingers Vilimone Bainibure and Josh Brunger grabbed two tries apiece.

Hooker Rory Blyth, Ben Brown and Ihaka HarperDent rounded off the Hautapu five-pointers.

Number 15 Dillon Martin converted three of the tries and Ned Collins one.

Melville-Hautapu combined (Mel-tap) were

Get Gardening

Autumn has arrived! The temperature has dropped and there is plenty of moisture in the soil. But with some sunny days, these are perfect conditions for planting both fruit and ornamental trees and hedging. Make sure trees are well staked and fertilised with a slow release leading into winter. It’s an exciting time of year for us here at Amber, it’s when we get to see some different products arriving that like the cooler weather, hellebores, daphnes, polyanthus and liriopes. We also have new stock of clivia, blueberries, feijoas and olives the list goes on. Don’t neglect that vege garden, plant succession crops every 2-3 weeks so you have a constant supply. Garlic bulbs are now available in store.

Happy gardening!

beaten 43-24 by Fraser Tech in the women’s premiership match at Collins Road, Hamilton.

Front-rowers Kaden Moeke and Chyann Kaitapu crossed the chalk for the home side, as did Eden Early and Dawn Hohua.

Fullback Keira Russell added two conversions, but Tech were too classy.

Waikato back Hinemaringi Scott scored three of the visitors’ seven tries.

In the women’s championship, Kihikihi had their first match of the season.

United Matamata Sports beat them 17-7, three tries to one, at the Kihikihi Domain.

The Pirongia women’s match was postponed due to the recent death of a popular Taupiri women’s representative. Courtney Johansen. She died after suffering a brain aneurysm while pregnant with her first child, days before her 30th birthday.

In division 1A, Leamington beat Pirongia 41-19 at Leamington - the visitors’ first loss of the 2026 season. Leamington are now the only unbeaten 1A side.

Vice-captain Hirini Murfitt scored a double for the home side while Jason Hill also grabbed two for the mountain men, adding two conversions

to his tally.

Hooker Baxter Shaw, Cameron Collins and Yianni Hilder were the other Leamington try scorers with right wing Robert Day adding 16 points.

James Pakoti scored the third Pirongia try, with Hill converting two out of three.

Ōhaupō were pipped by Putāruru 28-25 in a tough clash at Nola Block.

Tries were scored by backs Bronson Wilson-Beech, Hateni

Tafolo and Lance Elrick, while pivot Dean Fullerton added 10 points off the kicking tee.

Pirongia B dealt to Leamington B 69-10, keeping their impressive unbeaten run. They are the only 1B side yet to lose.

Kingston Grant scored 19 points including a hat-trick and Kirwyn Ellis registered 15 points.

Ōhaupō B were defeated by Putāruru B in South Waikato 68-25.

ENJOY THE THINGS YOU LOVE

Enjoy welcoming, comfy surroundings and a warm sense of belonging at our Resthaven on Burns Care Centre.

• We are a community charitable trust providing quality, affordable care for seniors.

• Our caring team are here to help you enjoy the things you love, whether it is gardening, baking, trips to town, hobbies, or simply a quiet afternoon relaxing.

• Our commitment to affordability means there is no premium daily room charge at Resthaven on Burns.

In the colts’ battle of the bridge clash, Hautapu beat Leamington’s under-21 side 52-5 at Leamington.

Speedy left winger Morgan Baker scored three of the visitors’ eight tries. Hennessy Campbell was the sole Leamington scorer.

Jack Mathis logged seven points, and pivot Johanson Tamala slotted five conversions for the Hautapu youngsters.

Under the mountain, Pirongia colts were deadlocked in a 27-all draw with Morrinsville Sports.

Mathew Henderson scored a double with Corbin Fleming grabbing 12 points – a try, two conversions and a penalty.

Paul Davey scored the fourth try for the young mountain men.

Down the road, Te Awamutu Sports colts were beaten 45-21 by Rugby United (Thames Valley) at Albert Park.

Captain Ryan Baillie, Jaoquin Burke and lock Dylan Harpur were Sports’ try scorers.

Impressive first five-eighth Burke converted all three tries.

Marcus Gower has clocked up more Council meetings than most at Waipā District Council and continues to pull up a chair

Nearly two decades after first stepping into the role, Marcus is a familiar face at the table, now serving his eighth term and holding the title of current longest-serving elected member in Waipā

His journey started in 2007 on the Te Awamutu Community Board, and what began as a way to get involved has grown into a long-standing role shaped by experience, relationships, and drive to support the community he calls home

When asked what has kept him in the game so long, Marcus said it is the people “I really enjoy working with my fellow councillors, Council staff and local groups and being able to help have a meaningful impact ”

That sense of purpose has been there from day one He first ran to bring fresh ideas, contribute, and play a part in guiding Waipā’s future But like many who step into local government, he quickly learned things don’t move at lightning speed

“The wheels move slowly - and intentionally,” he says “It ’s great to come in with dreams and ideas, but you need to play the long game and set expectations ”

And that long game is exactly how Council operates, with big decisions and projects carefully mapped out through long-term planning

In for an eighth term and Marcus Gower is not done yet

Marcus is the chair of the Regulatory Committee and the District Promotions Sub-Committee

Over the years, he has had a hand in some major projects across the district He’s particularly proud of helping get developments like the Cambridge Velodrome, Te Awamutu Library, Cambridge Wastewater Treatment Plant, and Te Awamutu Skatepark across the line - along with supporting the work at Sanctuary Mountain Maungatautari

But it hasn’t all been smooth sailing Marcus says each term brings its own challenges, and the current one is no exception

“We have some big adjustments coming with waters moving out of Council – things will look very different ”

He remains optimistic about what ’s ahead, particularly when it comes to shaping the district ’s next long-term plan

A proud Kihikihi local, Marcus has lived in the town for nearly 30 years He grew up in Te Awamutu and attended Te Awamutu College

His day job running an IT business gives him the flexibility to juggle Council duties When he’s off the clock, you’ll likely find him firing up the smoker, or out on the water with friends and family at Lakes Arapuni or Karāpiro

After all these years, some things haven t changed - Marcus Gower continues to bring his positive attitude and sense of humour to the Council table

Road to Recovery

Waipā is now in the official recovery phase, as the Transition Period ended through the Group State of Emergency declaration for

Highlights over the last fortnight include the opening of Corcoran Road in Te Pahu with onsite karakia led by mana whenua

We also held a successful community connection event at Te Pahu

The Mayoral Relief Fund has now granted nearly $100,000 to applicants in the affected communities For more information on the Mayoral Disaster Relief Fund visit: waipadc.govt.nz/relief-fund

Western Waipā water supply update

We’re managing ongoing water supply constraints in the western part of the district following damage to the Te Tahi water treatment plant in the February severe weather event

We’ve been working on a dedicated communications programme to ensure partners and key stakeholders are informed well-ahead of the summer months when the supply reaches peak demand We re also liaising with mana whenua and iwi partners, Waikato Waters Ltd and developers

A new dedicated page has been set up for our community to access up to date information: letstalk waipadc govt nz/water-supplyconstraints

Kihikihi Cemetery fence replacement

We’ll soon be replacing the boundary fence between Kihikihi Cemetery and the neighbouring properties with work starting on Monday, May 4 Residents affected by this work have been informed

This work sits within our asset maintenance programme and is expected to take around two weeks to complete

The new fence will be 1 8 metres high and built to meet District Plan requirements

Across 1. Assumed name (5) 4. Position (6) 8. Overcome (7) 9. Daft (5)

21. Crucial (5) 22. Italian dumplings (7) 23.

Last week

Across: 1. Stiff, 4. Dilute, 7. Ire, 8. Propel, 9. Theory, 10. Well thought of, 14. Remix, 15. Blame, 18. Hit the jackpot, 23. Meteor, 24. Artist, 25. Bun, 26. Sleazy, 27. Abyss. Down: 1. Spree, 2. Impel, 3. Filthy, 4. Detour, 5. Leech, 6. Torso, 10. Worth, 11. Limit, 12. Tramp, 13. Fleet, 16. Nearby, 17. Banana, 19. Ideal, 20. Theta, 21. Kitty, 22. Oasis.

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COMPOSER CONDUCTOR DANCE DIRGE DUET

ETUDE FUGUE

GROUP INSTRUMENT LYRIC MUSIC NOTE

OPERA ORATORIO ORCHESTRA PERFORM REFRAIN

REGGAE

RHYTHM ROCK ROSTRUM SCORE SOPRANO TEMPO

TENOR THEME TONE TREBLE VARIATION VOCALIST

TERMS AND CONDITIONS

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with Jan Bilton

Dishes with love

Mother’s Day is a wonderful opportunity to show Mum your appreciation with delicious food. Preparing a meal at home adds a personal touch that a restaurant meal can’t quite capture. Breakfast in bed remains a timeless favourite — think eggs benedict, or fluffy pancakes, fresh fruit and maple syrup — a caring and comforting start to her day. And don’t forget the card. Handmade is perfect; it doesn’t need to be flawless. Trust me, I keep a box of cards from my children that I open once a year and treasure the memories they hold.

Mother’s Day is celebrated on different days in many parts of the world, most commonly in March or May.

In the UK, Mother’s Day is always celebrated on the fourth Sunday of Lent – three weeks before Easter Sunday. Centuries ago, people who had moved away would return to their hometowns to visit the churches where they had been baptised or once worshipped. This tradition became known as Mothering Sunday, a time of homecoming, reflection, and connection with family and community.

Mother’s Day in New Zealand, the USA, Australia and Japan is celebrated on the second Sunday of May to honour mothers, grandmothers and maternal figures.

Ruby red lamingtons

New-ish Ruby Red kiwifruit are available from your supermarket or greengrocer. Use store-bought lamington sponge or homemade. Don’t like red? Then use lime jelly and green kiwifruit or lemon jelly and gold kiwifruit. trifle sponge about 20cm x 20cm square and 5cm deep

85g packet strawberry jelly crystals

1 cup boiling water

1 cup desiccated coconut

1/2 cup cream

1 tablespoon icing sugar

1/2 cup thick custard

2 Ruby Red kiwifruit, peeled and sliced

Using a flexible, thin, serrated knife, cut the sponge into 12 even pieces. Carefully remove any brown edges. You should have about 12 squares.

Place the jelly crystals in a bowl. Stir in the boiling water until the crystals are dissolved. Pour into a shallow dish and chill until cold but not set. Spread the coconut on a dinner-sized plate.

Carefully dip each edge of the sponge squares briefly in the jelly. Handle gently as the sponge is soft. Once one square is coated, dip it into the coconut. Repeat until all squares are coated. Place in the fridge to set, about 30 minutes. Whip the cream and icing sugar in a bowl until thick.

To serve, slice the lamington from the top to the base until almost sliced through.

Insert a teaspoon of custard at the bottom of each cut, then top with whipped cream.

Filled lamingtons will keep in the fridge for 1-2 days. Add the kiwifruit slices just before serving. Makes about 12.

Eggs Benedict with spinach & salmon

I used a stick blender to make the Hollandaise.

Blender Hollandaise Sauce: 1 large egg yolk

1 tablespoon lemon juice, warmed pinch salt

100g butter

Eggs: 2 muffin splits

100g spinach, washed and finely chopped

4 eggs

1/2 medium avocado, stoned and thinly sliced

50g sliced smoked salmon

To prepare the sauce, place the egg yolk in a small food

processor or blender. Add the lemon juice and salt. Blend until smooth. Melt the butter over low heat or in the microwave. With the blender motor running, gradually pour in the butter in a thin, steady stream. Keep the sauce warm by standing the container in warm water or pouring it into a warmed vacuum flask.

Halve the muffins, then toast. Microwave or steam the spinach until limp. Squeeze dry and chop again. Poach the eggs in simmering water.

To serve, top the muffin halves with the spinach, avocado and salmon. Top with the poached eggs and the Hollandaise Sauce. Serves 2.

Baked Brie

Excellent served as a starter to dinner or for brunch.

125g round brie

1 tablespoon butter, softened

2 tablespoons flaked almonds

Place the cheese on an oven-proof plate. Spread the butter over the top and sides of the cheese. Pat the almonds on top. Refrigerate until required.

Preheat the air fryer according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Place the brie and the oven-proof plate in the air fryer and cook at 180°C for 3-5 minutes until just beginning to melt. Or preheat the conventional oven to 180°C and bake for about 10 minutes.

Serve with warm crusty bread and a selection of olives, sundried tomatoes and/or quince paste. Serves 2-4.

Kihikihi

Te Awamutu Needs Your Help!

JONES, Peter – Peacefully on 23rd April 2026 at Carter Court, Carterton. Aged 97 years. Dearly loved husband of the late Jill. Loved ‘Pete’ to Jill’s family Angela and Brett, and the late Greg and Carolyn. Loved Grandad of Dylan, Benjamin, Daniel and Christopher and a loved great Grandad. ‘Love has no age, no limit, and no death’ In accordance with Pete’s wishes a private cremation has been held. Messages to the Jones family C/- P.O. Box 185, Carterton 5743 or visit www.tributes.co.nz. Richmond Funeral Home

KELLY, John Lawrence – Passed away peacefully at Waikato Hospital on Sunday, 26th April 2026, just three days short of his 80th birthday. Loved husband of Rachel (Kay). John lived a simple life and was well known for his passion for vintage cars and machinery. A valued retired member of the Pirongia Fire Brigade, he will be remembered for his quiet dedication and willingness to lend a hand. A celebration of John’s life will be held at the Pirongia Community Centre Church, 574 Crozier Street, Pirongia, on Tuesday, 5th May 2026 at 1:00pm. Donations towards John’s memorial, to support Kay at this time, would be greatly appreciated and may be made at: https:// givealittle.co.nz/cause/ support-kay-kelly-andhonour-johns-memory, or left at the service. Messages to the Kelly family may be sent c/- 262 Ohaupo Road, Te Awamutu 3800, or left in John’s online tribute book at www.rosetown.co.nz