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TE AWAMUTU NEWS | 1

THURSDAY DECEMBER 18, 2025

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DECEMBER 18, 2025

2025 Person of the Year

A wonderful citizen When we cast the net to find our person of the year, the name Jess Brown consistently popped up. “When my son was born, I didn’t really have any family there. So, I decided to move back and got the job at Inland Revenue.” Jess has lived in Ōtorohanga and now Hamilton but still chooses Te Awamutu every day. “I travel because I still consider Te Awamutu my home and the community that I have a passion for,” Jess said. “We rely on volunteers from our community to help keep us going. If we don’t have volunteers, we can’t open our doors. “We’re not government funded, so we rely on funding or grants and community groups such as Altrusa, Lions, Rotary and even clients who leave us donations, to keep us going. “Te Awamutu is the community that my heart belongs to. I am extremely grateful for this community.” Te Awamutu Citizens Advice Bureau manager Jessica Brown is the 2025 Te Awamutu Person of the Year. Photo: Jesse Wood

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Jessica “Jess” Brown has been serving Te Awamutu for 14 years through the Citizens Advice Bureau. The News has received many positive comments about the CAB manager’s work and commitment from multiple sources. “It’ll be 14 years next month. My son was three. I saw this role advertised and it was school hours at the time. Only three days a week and that fitted in perfectly,” Jess said. “I hadn’t been working for a couple of years. I had resigned from my role at Inland Revenue because it wasn’t my scene. “This is where I’ve stayed ever since. I love working with the volunteers and community here.” Jess said the role is rewarding and makes a difference in people’s lives. “We have an awesome team. Our team has just gone from strength to strength over the years. “We, and I, are extremely lucky to have the people that we have. That’s what makes us work so well. “People do say they find I’m easy to talk to. I’m happy to do the groundwork if needs be. If someone’s sick, I’ll jump in and I’m not worried about what type of work it is. I’ll get down and do anything. If they’ve got to do it, so do I. “I get a lot of feedback that my management style is quite unique and very people orientated.”

The CAB has many offshoots including bookings for the Kihikihi Town Hall and domain, money management classes at Waikeria and IT classes but their main call of business is helping those who ring in or walk in. From keeping rooves over people’s heads to helping them get their vacuum cleaner fixed, find a job or learn how to use a smartphone, the CAB team does it all. Jess is also a Justice of the Peace, an active member of the Te Awamutu JP Association and the South Waikato JP representative on the Waikato JP Association. “We have a JP clinic three mornings a week. I think we’re one of the busiest CAB’s around,” Jess said. “We are here for anyone and everyone, for just about anything. “We’re here to offer help, support and navigate processes to make sure people don’t suffer for not knowing what their rights and responsibilities are. “Not only do we tell people what their rights are but we also educate them on what their responsibilities are.” Several generations ago, Jess’ family moved to Ngaroma. Her grandparents have lived in the area their entire lives, and her mum married a dairy farmer. “We travelled around the country from job to job and settled in Whakatāne,” Jess said. “My mum and dad moved back to be closer to my grandparents about 20 years ago.

★

By Jesse Wood

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2 | TE AWAMUTU NEWS

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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 Cambridge News is published by Good Local Media Ltd and is the most widely distributed newspaper in Cambridge and rural surrounds.

THURSDAY DECEMBER 18, 2025

Christmas Messages

Bruce Judd Te Awamutu Christian Centre I can remember that in the mid 1970's the Jesus Revolution was sweeping across New Zealand. I managed to persuade my mother to let me drive her Morris 1100 over to a Greerton Racecourse gathering in Tauranga. It was life changing for me. It was an amazing time in New Zealand history as people from all church denominations were being drawn from all over the country to attend the large gathering to praise and worship God and sing “Scripture in Song” music together. One of the favourite songs was Dave and Dale Garrett's based on Isaiah 9:6. For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given; and the government will be upon his shoulder, and his name will be called; Wonderful, counsellor, Mighty God, everlasting father,

prince of peace. Thousands of people were drawn to the churches, and many became pastors and missionaries all over the world, preaching the good news of eternal salvation through Jesus Christ who was born in Bethlehem to be the Saviour of the world. Christine Bryant Lay Minister, St John’s Anglican Church This is Christmas! A couple of weeks ago I read an opinion piece entitled “It’s only a shop!” No prizes for guessing which shop was referenced. The writer was saying that, yes, it is great to have international brand names setting up in New Zealand, but consumer aspiration is not what life is about. After all, it’s only stuff, however good the quality is. At St John’s, we have been talking about

Meghan Hawkes looks back at Christmas past in Waipā – and finds a tale of the future.

Away for Christmas Nobody, it seemed, was staying at home for Christmas and New Year in the Te Awamutu district in 1937. The Railway Department, first to feel the public purse, had an unusually heavy run of bookings and extra trains were put on. Te Awamutu garages reported a flood of cars to be overhauled in anticipation of holiday tours. A travel boom appeared likely. All the service cars were fully laden with travellers, while the number of cars loaded with camping gear passing through Te Awamutu indicated that much of the populace was preparing to spend its holiday ‘on wheels.’ Another holiday vehicle, a carriage bearing Santa, arrived at Pirongia in 1949 escorted by three dainty fairies. The Pirongia Social Club had decorated a tree with balloons, coloured lights and parcels. Every child received a bag of sweets and a paper hat. Adults also were presented with paper hats which made the scene look very festive. The evening was spent in games and after a sumptuous supper the children went home, entirely satisfied with their night’s entertainment. Nightly entertainment was also supplied by the Kihikihi Town Band in 1927 when it played several Christmas carols and hymns on Christmas Eve around the township. They commenced playing at 10.30pm and after being entertained by Mr and Mrs New, of the Star Hotel, proceeded to Tokanui, where Dr McPherson’s residence was visited, and after playing some carols, they were supplied with refreshments by the genial doctor. Returning to Kihikihi, they visited Mr Bailey’s residence, where all the bandsmen were well entertained, and on leaving received a handsome donation.

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They were hospitably treated by many other appreciative householders. Mr Temple had made a special telescopic lighting apparatus for the use of the bandsmen which added to the enjoyment and Peter Balfour motored the band in his lorry. Altogether the tour was an entertaining one, and as a result of the generosity of so many, the band’s funds were satisfactorily boosted. Entertaining as well was an essay written in 1929 by Paterangi’s budding journalist, Miss Joyce Ryburn, aged 11. She won the guinea prize in a special New Zealand Herald competition for a composition entitled ‘New Years Eve 1999.’ In Joyce’s story making a telephone call involved standing on a small platform, dialling a number on a small disc, and shooting off to the corresponding number in the street. Little children drove about the pavement in Baby Austins, which had long been discarded by their parents. The poorer people were looked after by the rich, and all were having a happy time. A number of people were attended by electrical housemaids. A button was pressed and one appeared. Orders were obeyed in a most remarkable manner. The maid's powers even extended to making speeches. In an aeroplane above the city several people flew to Invercargill for tea. They returned to Auckland for supper. A veil of twilight fell across the flaming western sky; the night drew her sombre robes over the brilliantly lighted city and at last the clock chimed twelve. The new century, 2000 AD, was born, and the world was filled with rejoicing.

Seasons Greetings HOLIDAY HOURS 2025-2026

giving gifts that improve the quality of life for someone who has less than us. For example, with a donation of $35 the Christian Blind Mission can restore sight by doing cataract surgery or a gift of $75 will enable a child to read by fitting them with glasses. Jesus healed the sick, the outcast lepers, the blind man sitting by the pool of Siloam. He gave his life to improve the quality of life for all. Christmas is not the presents; it is not even the carols, no matter how beautifully they are sung. Christmas is always and only about the humble heart which receives the wondrous, the life-giving gift of Christ. Son of God, Child of Mary, born in a stable in Bethlehem, Be born in us again this Christmas, That, through us, the world may know the wonder of your love.Hear this prayer, for your name’s sake. Amen. Fr Rico Enriquez St Patrick’s Catholic Church The message of Christmas is the message of love. God loves us so much that He gave His only son. It is indeed a great sacrifice for God the Father to give His son - Jesus Christ - for the salvation of the world and it was also a great sacrifice for Jesus Christ - the Son, to offer Himself for the salvation of the world. As Christians, followers of Jesus Christ, let us continue to concretise this love of God, not only this Christmas, but in our daily life by loving the neighbour. Let us continue to love the neighbour; especially, those who need help not only materially but also to those who need help spiritually. In this way, we are at the same time, concretizing the command of Jesus, “Love one another as I have loved you.” (Jn. 13: 34) Have a blessed Christmas everyone and a grace-filled new year 2026!

Wishing all our wonderful customers a very Merry Christmas and a safe, happy New Year! Our last day of work is 23 December, and we’ll be back in the trees from 5 January.

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Te Awamutu Wheelchair Wagon’s last day of operation will be Monday 22 December 2025, back in operation Monday 19 January 2026. Wishing all our clients, supporters and volunteers a very merry Christmas.

TE AWAMUTU NEWS | 3

THURSDAY DECEMBER 18, 2025

Briefs… Site confirmed

Waikato Thoroughbred Racing has secured a conditional deal to buy 150 hectares in Tamahere, marking the first major step toward relocating and modernising the region’s thoroughbred racing operations. The “super club,” – a 2023 merger of Waikato Racing, Cambridge Jockey and Waipā Racing clubs, has chosen a dairy farm site bordering the Waikato Expressway with Pencarrow and Duncan roads on either side.

Tuia call

Applications have opened for the annual Tuia Leadership programme which offers Māori youth an opportunity to work with Waipā’s mayor, Mike Pettit, receive mentoring and share views on issues which impact on youth.

Person of the Year

Our sister paper the The Cambridge News has named Jocelyn Cooney as its 2025 person of the year. Cooney has enjoyed a distinguished career in the legal industry and has been widely acknowledged for her community service.

Values fall

The total rateable value for Waipā district has dropped 5.2 per cent to $34.21 billion. Quotable Value New Zealand Upper North Island general manager Joe Holmes told Waipā District Council’s Finance and Corporate Committee the revaluation of 25,644 properties had been conducted on August 1. Meanwhile, Waipā median house prices rose to $850,000 last month from 85 sales. That is up on the $817,500 in October when there were 83 sales.

Show time

Children as young as four were on stage for the three performances of a Christmas pantomime at the Te Awamutu Little Theatre earlier this month. Tovah O’Neill wrote the pantomime which focused on sharing Christmas spirit, had life lessons and opportunities for the audience to participate.

Lois’ legacy lives on By Jesse Wood

Lois Ings’ intricately painted calico Christmas murals are continuing to add colour to her beloved church. St Andrew’s Presbyterian Church in Kihikihi proudly displays the late artist’s work on their walls alongside their nativity scene and decorations. Lois Claire Ings (nee Bethune) died last month, five days after her 90th birthday. She and husband Arthur (1929-2004) spent much of their lives in the wider Te Awamutu district – Pukeatua, Te Awamutu and Kihikihi. Welby, one their six children, said the pair had a great relationship and encouraged each other to do things out of the ordinary. “Dad was a shearing contractor. Then they were farmers. Dad went on to write and Mum went on to do art,” Welby said. “Dad left school at 12 and Mum left Te Awamutu College at 16. They wanted us kids to get a good education, so several of us got degrees.

“At 60, Mum said ‘I’d like to get a degree too’. She went to Wintec and did the media arts degree. Students had an assignment in the last year of the degree where they could do something for the community – Lois painted two murals at the church in about 2001. Welby said they took her weeks to complete. “Often people use overhead projectors but she sketched it all out. She was a real process person and kept notes on everything. She’d never done anything of this scale before,” he said. Welby said his mum’s house was full of paintings. “Full of flowers, nudes and Viking ships, she didn’t have borders with beauty. Lois had a close association with the Kihikihi Presbyterian church. “We come from small intimate worlds… I know that in the last years of her life, Mum came here because this felt like home,” Welby said. “The cup of tea and someone would make pikelets. They’d sit down

Lois with her night Christmas mural.

and the conversation one week is a continuation of the life of everyone from the week before. “The church operates as a kind of a family culture. “There’s Tui Trow, who’d been a childhood friend of hers, sitting in the pew in front of her and Lewis Anderson sitting over there who we went to school with. “It pulled one end of her life into another end of her life. I think that’s why she felt really connected here.” He said places like that are important to us as humans, “because people are looking

for the warmth of the human heart.” Sister Suzanne echoed the sentiments about the church’s impact on her mum. “She used to come home and she used to always say she felt uplifted. When she came away from church, she felt good,” Suzanne said. Welby said his mother was glad that she moved back to Te Awamutu and Kihikihi.” The family had always said, both to Lois and Arthur, they would never die in an institution. They’d die at home.

“Mum died at dawn and we opened the curtains in her room so she could see,” Suzanne said. “She wasn’t here physically, but the garden that she looked out on each day was there and her family was wrapped around her. “We went to the service and there were almost 150 people. “We thought, because Mum was 90, that there wouldn’t be many people. It was just beautiful. Given that some people weren’t well, it was very humbling.”

Heat goes on watermain project

A watermain upgrade for Te Awamutu is scheduled to be completed in March. But it’s gone through some sticky moments in Racecourse Road this month as daytime temperatures rocketed. “This happens when bitumen softens and rises to the surface under high temperatures, a seasonal issue known as bleeding seal,” Eeva-Liisa Wright, Group manager service delivery told The News. “Our contractors are spreading chip on the worst areas. These patches usually settle once temperatures stabilise. “We understand that road works and hot-weather impacts can be frustrating, and we appreciate the community’s patience as the team works to complete this important upgrade.”

The watermain project has a $7.38 million budget. It involves replacing 5.4 km of trunk and principal mains, installing pipe attachments to the Mangapiko Bridge on SH3 and Mangaohoi Bridge on Arawata Street, connecting two reservoirs to the a 560mm-diameter trunk main, installing 30 valves and chambers, 22 new fire hydrants, and 90 property connections and abandoning 3.6 km of old pipe along with associated valves and hydrants. Work began in June last year. “The project has faced some challenges, including in gaining the necessary traffic management approvals to access and work safely on the State Highway network, structural work required to attach the new trunk main to the Mangapiko footbridge, and

Parts of Racecourse Road suffered from “bleeding seal” last week.

complex pipe installation on steep or congested sections between Taylors Hill Reservoir and Racecourse Road,” Wright said.

Photo - Roy Pilott

“Connecting the new trunk main to reservoir while keeping water supply uninterrupted has also added complexity.”

Respectful, genuine, and down-to-earth 07 870 2137 262 Ohaupo Road, Te Awamutu office@rosetown.co.nz www.rosetown.co.nz The Rosetown Funerals team L to R: Jim Goddin, Teri Keir and Jordan Goss

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4 | TE AWAMUTU NEWS

THURSDAY DECEMBER 18, 2025

Artist impression

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TE AWAMUTU NEWS | 5

THURSDAY DECEMBER 18, 2025

Ryburn twins celebrate 90 By Jesse Wood

Five generations of the Ryburn family gathered at the Te Awamutu Bowling Club for a double celebration earlier this month. Surrounded by about 80 family members, twin brothers Bryan and Colin celebrated their 90th birthdays along with their wives Barbara and Pam. Both have four children, many grandchildren, great grandchildren and Bryan has

great-great grandchildren who also attended. Bryan has a daughter and three sons, while Colin has two of each. The pair were born on December 6, 1935, in Pōkeno to Cyril and Edna, while visiting Cyril’s cousin. Cyril and Edna did not know twins were on the way. After Colin arrived, the midwife announced, “you’ve got a boy, and the other one is coming”. The brothers didn’t have

Way back when - the twins when they were youngsters.

any other siblings and grew up on the family farm at Ryburn Rd, Pāterangi. They’ve lived in the Te Awamutu area their entire lives. The road is named after their family and they were the fourth generation living there after immigrating from Scotland. “Ryburns were one of the first settlers in Pāterangi,” Bryan said. “We rode horses to Pāterangi School. When

The 21st – the twins were cutting a cake in 1956.

we were in our early stages there were no tractors. It was all horse and carts.” Farm machinery and tractors are some of the most noticeable changes from what they first had or saw. The boys went on to attend Te Awamutu College. After leaving school, Bryan continued to run the family farm. “We had a jersey stud called The Oaks because along the farm frontage on Ryburn Rd there was a big row of oak trees,” Bryan said. Colin had other ideas, becoming involved in the building industry and house removal. “I didn’t retire until I was 75 - too young to retire.” Colin moved the original cottage they grew up in, to his section in Pāpāmoa. Bryan sold the family farm in 1977 and moved into town. “I ended up working at J. Jones, where PGG Wrightson is now on Market St,” Bryan said. “I worked there until I retired.” In their spare time, the pair had very different hobbies. Colin enjoyed working and painting from time to time with one of his sons.

The 90th birthday - Colin (left) and Bryan Ryburn at their 90th birthday celebration.

Bryan has been an avid sportsman. “Colin wasn’t really into the sports, but I was into just about everything. Tennis, rugby, golf, bowls,” Bryan said. “I seem to manage playing bowls all right. I can still bend down to pick them up. “It gives you something to do. If you play four games, all day long, you do a few miles. It’s just about equal to

a round of golf.” They’ve both enjoyed occasionally travelling overseas, but Te Awamutu has always been home. A lot of their mates aren’t around anymore but they still have each other. The twins don’t really have a secret to their longevity but say they have had a good life. Looking back, neither of them would do anything differently.

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6 | TE AWAMUTU NEWS

THURSDAY DECEMBER 18, 2025

ON SHAKY GROUND

Lave domes By Janine Krippner

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Lava domes are fascinating things. In short, they are when a volcano builds a small, unstable, dangerous mountain, that will likely collapse at some point (or many). When lava reaches the surface at a near-solid or solid state, with much of the gases released as it rose through the crust, it can build vertically at the surface and form a large rocky mound, or a dome. When a lava dome is growing, we call this an effusive eruption. These are more evolved magmas than the runnier (lowerviscosity) lava flows we see in videos out of Iceland or Hawaii, but like the majority of those eruptions, they are not explosive. Explosive means that the magma or lava is being blasted apart by violently expanding gases to form volcanic ash and rock chunks. This can form an ash plume or pyroclastic flow. Lava domes can grow from pushing more lava up from the inside, or lava accumulating on the outside. Both scenarios mean that near-solid to solid rock is squeezing through the dome. There will be shaking associated with this, and volcanic gases moving through the system that may cause alteration. This all makes for an unstable situation. To add to it, the lava dome could form on a steep surface, or grow to overtop a crater. They can also reach hundreds of metres in height. After the major eruption of Mount St Helens on May 18, 1980, the eruption period didn’t actually end there. A dome grew within the new crater, reaching around 300m above the crater floor.

For reference, the Sky Tower in Auckland is 328 m. If you were to watch a lava dome grow it might not look like anything much was happening. You might see a few rockfalls that kick up dust, and if you were there at night you would see the glow of hot rock. Occasionally you might see a small ash plume. But something else can happen. With all this instability, huge chunks can collapse. When this happens, a block-and-ash flow forms, which is a type of pyroclastic flow with a high portion of solid rock bits with many easily exceeding the size of a car. Additionally, the breaking down of hot rock as it hurtles down the slope releases hot volcanic gases. These flows can destroy everything in their path and bury the landscape in metres of rock, reaching kilometres from the volcano. The deposits I studied for my PhD at Shiveluch volcano in Kamchatka, Russia, reached 19km from the dome. This process can also trigger an explosive eruption, releasing an ash plume high into the atmosphere. This is an example of how a volcanic eruption might not always look like one. While it may appear peaceful, the situation can turn violent in an instant. It’s yet another reason why I have a very healthy respect for volcanoes, and why keeping a good distance can be the best option.

TE AWAMUTU NEWS | 7

THURSDAY DECEMBER 18, 2025

COMMUNITY BOARD COMMENT

Holiday timetable

Looking at the spatial plan By Ange Holt, Kihikihi-Te Awamutu Community Board chair

Last Tuesday’s meeting was a relatively short one, with only two extra items on our agenda outside of the usual: the setting of our meeting dates and the North Waipa/ South Hamilton Spatial Plan. We also received a brief summary of the 70-year celebration and unveiling of the sundial at the Te Awamutu War Memorial Park. As council are hopefully to continue meeting on Wednesdays, we are going with Tuesday evenings for our Community Board meetings this triennium. We hope this will make it a little easier on our Councillors, sparing them from having meetings all day and half the night! A partnership for the Waikato sub-region, has developed a comprehensive 30-year growth management and implementation strategy known as the Future Proof Strategy. Part of this strategy includes the North Waipa/South Hamilton Spatial Plan, which the Community Board has been asked to comment on. We have been presented with a number of scenarios to consider, including the impact on Te Awamutu. One of the things that stood out to me was the potential of the “Fast Track,” projects where government has enabled faster processing via the FastTrack Approvals Act. This is good in that it gets development and business started quickly, but less so in that it puts pressure on resources and the environment, and its more ad hoc nature makes good planning more difficult. Based on the information we were given, growth and development over the next 20 years will likely be substantial. As a result, there might be an impact on us that may look like more traffic, increased

numbers of people living here and commuting to work in the industrial areas such sa Titanium Park by the Airport—or pressure on our retail sector as new outlets open in these developing communities. For anyone interested in seeing what is being considered in this part of the district, you can easily find it by going to our agenda on the council website, then navigating to Your Council, Meetings, agendas, minutes and livestreams. Councillor Walsh, Board member Wood, and I were fortunate to attend the 70th birthday celebrations and unveiling of the sundial at the Te Awamutu War Memorial Park. The small park committee did a great job of creating an informative event by having participants read original speeches from the opening event back in 1955. One of the attendees commented on how much he had not known, and how some signage highlighting these interesting facts about the park—its reason for existing and the relevance of its various features—should be displayed for the public to read and learn about the Park’s history. Let’s hope we can address this, with heritage signs on our list of what we want to see reinstated around the Park and Te Awamutu. We have no more formal meetings until February 2026, so Merry Christmas/ Meri Kirihimete! Wishing everyone a safe and happy holiday season from all of us at the Te Awamutu and Kihikihi Community Board.

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TE AWAMUTU NEWS | 9

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Thank you

The Te Awamutu Medical Centre team wishes you a very happy, healthy and safe Christmas and holiday season. We will be closed on 25-28 December and 1-4 January. We will be open for our normal opening hours on all other days.

From the staff at the Te Awamutu News and Cambridge News to all our readers and advertisers throughout the Waipa region for supporting us this year.

50+ years caring for Waipa families

We wish you a happy Christmas and a safe holiday period. Your last paper of the year is Thursday 18 December

Start your enrolment online www.tamc.co.nz Like us on Facebook 220 Bank St, Te Awamutu | 4/415 Pioneer Drive, Te Awamutu Phone: 07-872 0300 | Open Monday-Friday 8am-6pm

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10 | TE AWAMUTU NEWS

THURSDAY DECEMBER 18, 2025

It’s a dream role for Linden By Jesse Wood

Twenty years ago, Lindenberg “Linden” Gomes was running a DVD store in Puxinanã, Paraíba, Brazil. Now he’s the inaugural operations manager of Te Awamutu’s Regent Theatre. Linden joined the team in 2022, prior to the formation of The Allan Webb Theatre Trust. He stepped into the role of assistant manager in 2023. “He’s a local, passionate about the Regent and he knows movies,” longtime Regent owner Webb said. “He was the ideal choice and I am extremely pleased the trust selected him for the role.” Trust chair Alan Livingston said they’re very fortunate to have Linden. “Linden knows the theatre inside out. He knows the patronage of the Regent and he’s a community person,” Livingston said. “If you work in the theatre, you’ve got to have a passion for it. It’s not just a job. Linden has got that. “The real judge of character and ability is Allan Webb and he’s given him a big tick. Linden has learnt a lot from Allan. He’s got his finger on the pulse of the Regent.” Linden has been the driving force behind social media engagement, the success of sold-out classic film screenings and the organisation of the current 12 Nights of Christmas event. He’s humbled to be trusted with the new role. “I feel very good to be part of this, such an important thing for this community. I know that this place is still standing here because of their support,” Linden said. “I had the great opportunity to work with Des Savage who also taught me a lot and I’m happy that I could help departing manager Paige Larianova during her time at the Regent. Linden moved to New Zealand in 2016. He started as a beekeeper for Comvita, where he still works alongside his Regent role. “When I got my residency in 2022, I said I’m going to try to get a job at the cinema,” Linden said. “This is the first place my wife and I

visited when we arrived here. I just fell in love. I grew up crazy for movies. This place was special and became more and more special. “I remember asking Allan Webb in the foyer downstairs, after a late session, ‘are you hiring? I just want to be part of the team. I just want to clean’.” Webb asked for his CV and “the rest is history”. “My father died when I was seven, so I don’t remember watching movies with him and my mum never liked movies.” Linden said. “But I spent some time living with my grandma and she was crazy for movies. I remember watching movies with her that I probably wasn’t supposed to watch at that time - Ridley Scott’s Alien. “The first movie that I remember was the original Clash of the Titans. I watched that with my grandma and there was a power cut for 20 minutes. “We didn’t see when he was flying on the horse and we were just so disappointed for that.” From then on, Linden always wanted to do something with movies. “I opened a DVD store in Brazil, between the transition of tapes and DVDs,” Linden said. “I ran that store from about 2000 until 2008 and another until 2010. “We started renting CDs, then we had tapes. When the DVD came, the DVD player was so expensive, so we invested quite a bit of money in DVD players. We rented them out to people, but then piracy destroyed the DVD industry. “I got the opportunity to move to Hawaii to learn how to produce queen bees. My wife stayed in Brazil, and one day she said, ‘we’re going to have to close’.” They closed the store and moved to Hawaii, followed by four years back home and the decision to come to New Zealand. Now he is in charge of one of the country’s oldest movie theatres, heading towards its 94th year. “Coming to New Zealand - it was meant to be,” Linden said. “A lot of people disagree, but Peter Jackson put New Zealand on the map with

Linden Gomes is the new operations manager at The Regent Theatre.

The Lord of the Rings. “My wife was a big fan of Xena: Warrior Princess and knew a lot about New Zealand. “I didn’t know anything, so The Lord of the Rings made me very curious about it.” He’s been working since age 14 and has landed in his dream job, hobby and community all wrapped into one. “I’ve done a lot of different things, but this is the time of my life that I’m most comfortable with what I’m doing,” Linden

Photo: Jesse Wood

said. “I’m from a small town in Brazil and Te Awamutu has this community vibe too. “The way that people come to this place and say, ‘I want to support this, we can never close this, this is the heart of the town’ - is just amazing. “I will do my best to keep Allan’s legacy, with some new ideas, but never lose respect for the place and the community. Thank you for this opportunity.”

TE AWAMUTU NEWS | 11

THURSDAY DECEMBER 18, 2025

Thursday, December 18, 2025 A quick safety note for the holidays With Christmas and summer holidays coming up, it’s a good time for all of us to remember: our homes - and our community - are safer when we stay alert. CommSafe and Neighbourhood Support highlight some basic steps we can all take: Lock your doors and windows - even if you’re just stepping out for a short time. Keep valuables out of sight. That includes gifts under the tree or items visible through windows - and not sharing posts online of your shiny new presents. If you’re away or on holiday: consider asking a friend or neighbour to help out - collect your mail, turn lights on/off, maybe park a car in your driveway so the place doesn’t look empty. Lock sheds, garages, and make sure garden tools or equipment aren’t left outside - burglars often look for easy entry or quick grab items. Delay your social media posts - consider sharing your adventures when you’re back home again, rather than tipping off the wrong person that you’re away. And perhaps most importantly: look out for each other. A friendly wave, checking in on a neighbour’s place especially if someone’s away - goes a long way to keeping Waipā safe.

A message from the Mayor: Celebrating Waipā this Christmas When I ran for Mayor, I focused on three things: getting results, building relationships, and being realistic about what’s achievable. People want to see things get done. That’s the approach I’ll stick to as we work together to make Waipā even better - celebrating wins, facing challenges headIt’s been a huge year for me personally - officially taking on the role of Mayor just over six weeks ago on, and being honest along the way. has been exciting, inspiring and humbling. Even in that short time, it’s really reinforced for me the But for now, it’s time to enjoy the festive season. I energy, the dedication, and heart that make Waipā hope you get the chance to slow down, share a such a great place to live. It makes me proud to few laughs, and enjoy the simple things that make this time of year so special. My family and I will be represent Waipā, and I am grateful for the trust the community has placed in me. doing the same - enjoying Christmas lunch around the table with a traditional glazed ham and then spending plenty of time outdoors, Family has been front and centre for me this year, especially with my daughter’s wedding last month. getting out on the water and catching up with the people who matter most. That milestone reminded me how important it is to stay connected - not just with family but with friends and neighbours too. From all of us, have a safe, joyful and relaxing festive season. I’m looking forward to catching up with you in 2026 and as we continue building Those connections are what make our Waipā - our Home of Champions. communities strong, and why Waipā feels like home for so many of us. Mike Pettit Kia ora koutou, and Merry Christmas! As the year winds down, I wanted to grab a moment to say thanks to everyone in our wonderful Waipā community.

Holiday hours reminder The Council offices and libraries in Te Awamutu and Cambridge will be closed from 5pm Friday, December 19, and will reopen 9am Monday, January 5, 2026. Please note, Te Whare Taonga o Te Awamutu Museum will also be closed during this period. If your enquiry is urgent, please contact our after-hours team on 0800 924 723. During the break, we are unable to respond to reports submitted via the Antenno app. Please call us if you need anything urgently.

Waipā moves to early water restrictions

Alternatively, visit our website waipadc.govt.nz for a range of self-service options (pay your bill, check your recycling day, and more).

Waipā District has moved to level one water restrictions earlier than anticipated. This comes after a sweltering start to summer, which has pushed daily water use across the district up to around 35 million litres – around 40 percent more than the usual average daily use for this time of year.

Please note if your recycling collection falls on Christmas Day or New Year’s Day, your wheelie bin will be picked up the following day.

Under level one, sprinklers should only be used between 6-8am and 6-8pm, while handheld hoses can still be used at any time. The level one restrictions will stay in place over the holiday period and will be reviewed in the New Year.

From all of us, to all of you, have a safe and merry festive season.

For more information about alert levels and water-saving tips, visit smartwater.org.nz

Your Elected Members

Mike Pettit Mayor

Jo Davies-Colley

Deputy Mayor

0800 WAPADC (924 723)

Get in touch: waipadc.govt.nz/our-council/our-team/mayor-and-councillors

Roger Gordon

waipadc.govt.nz

Aidhean Camson

Pip Kempthorne

/WaipaDistrictCouncil

Clare St Pierre

Les Bennett

Shane Walsh

Dean Taylor

Marcus Gower

Mike Montgomerie

Dale-Maree Morgan

12 | TE AWAMUTU NEWS

THURSDAY DECEMBER 18, 2025

Gibbes gets down to business NZ berths for

By Jesse Wood

Jono Gibbes’ first preseason in charge of the Chiefs rugby franchise is underway. The former player and assistant coach – and Te Awamutu Sports player has transitioned smoothly into his new role as head coach after the departure of Clayton McMillan. Pre-season training started last week. “I think it’s a real privilege to have this responsibility. I had some great memories in my time as a player here a long, long time ago,” Gibbes said, “Having the privilege of being able to be in this environment for the last two years, see what it’s been built upon, see what they really hang their hat on here, and what matters and what’s important - I really feel I’m in a place that I belong in. Gibbes has been in the job for a while now but the planning stages are over and it’s action time. “I’ve been pretty busy in the off-season with the transition, taking over, understanding the whole

organisation. “Making those new relationships on both sides of the building, understanding the responsibility that goes along with the position of head coach,” Gibbes said. “Then obviously strategy, analysis, philosophy sort of things, organisation, there’s a lot that goes on. “But it gets to a point where it’s all theory and really now the excitement and the energy in the building is because we’re actually doing things. “It’s stimulating, there’s good energy around the place and we’re hungry to work.” After the first few days of pre-season training he’s found it “energising”. “I’ve found the first few days really energising. I get my energy from the people around me,” Gibbes said. “There’s been a lot of theory, planning and discussions. But now we’re in together and we’re working. “For me, I can feed off that energy of the staff here, the assistant coaches, and we’re just hungry to get into it and try and make these three

weeks really count.” All Blacks back Emoni Narawa is on his return from injury – a great early addition to the squad’s early training. “Jono has been great. He’s no stranger to being in the Chiefs environment. He’s been an assistant coach for the last couple of years,” Narawa said. “He’s quite old school with his ways. Something I admire about him is he’s always wanting to learn from the players. “Jono’s definitely going to bring a lot of experience. We’re looking forward to the new challenge and working with him. “He knows how we want to play, and I guess the next three weeks of pre-season, it’s just about building the foundation. That’s our fitness, work in the gym and our skills on the grass. “The Chiefs’ way of playing is always different, and a bit of flair. The DNA is always there.” Gibbes said after a few years with the franchise, he recognises what makes the Chiefs so consistent. “[You can recognise]

Banks, Seager

Te Awamutu’s Jono Gibbes is the new Chiefs head coach. Photo: Jesse Wood

what’s made it really strong and what it’s built on. You respect that and you protect that. There’s a lot of things in the system of preparation,” Gibbes said. “There’s a lot of things that make up the Chiefs’ DNA that you want to protect, keep in place and keep building on. “But then obviously where I put my lens on things, is slightly different to Clayton’s. But that’s not unusual. “We always have to keep finding a way to evolve and take our game to another level.”

Waipā pair Bastiaan Banks and Mark Seager are set to don the silver fern for New Zealand at the Asia-Pacific Lacrosse Union men’s championship qualifier next month in Wellington. The January 6-11 tournament will feature teams from Australia, China, Hong Kong China, Japan, the Philippines, South Korea. New Zealand will compete for a place in the 2027 Division 1 World Lacrosse Men’s Championships. Banks, a University of Waikato student balancing a conjoint business and science degree with his sporting commitments, first picked up a lacrosse stick at intermediate school. “I’ve always been someone who likes to try new things. Lacrosse was another step in trying something new. I was inspired by the opportunities to represent my school [Cambridge High] and quickly move into Waikato U15 and U18 teams. It was cool to pretty easily represent your region; I really enjoyed that.” Seagar began his lacrosse journey in 2021 during his final year of high school. “My mates played it, so I thought I’d give it a go,” Seagar, who played squash for Te Awamutu and Pirongia clubs, said. Now a second-year apprentice in Ōtorohanga, he balances work with his sporting ambitions. Representing New Zealand on the international stage is a source of pride for both. “The opportunity to develop under world-class coaches and play at the highest level has helped me grow as a player. Doing the haka before the game is something unique that New Zealand brings to the game of lacrosse,” Banks says. Seagar said lacrosse was a niche sport that not many people knew about, “so it’s amazing that we can still represent our country in a sport we love”. The upcoming APLU Qualifier is a milestone for New Zealand lacrosse. “It’s a perfect occasion for NZ to showcase our home-grown talent, with some world-class talent playing in our country.” Banks said. “Lacrosse is a fun game – it’s really enjoyable and gets easier the more you play.”

Church Services 2025

Kia tau te Rangimarie ki a koutou.

What is Christmas to you? A few days off work and an excuse for a big feed? Presents when it isn’t even our birthday. Stress over finding the money for those presents and food? Family pressure, and what to do with the kids if it rains? In just a few more days Christians will celebrate the birth of the Christ-child, the Word of God made human, to live among us and bring us a message of hope, peace, and love. God lives among us. Whenever we offer compassion and kindness to a neighbour, God is there. Whenever we lighten someone’s load or offer a listening ear, God is there. This is the way the spirit of Christmas spreads through our community not just for a few days in December, but throughout the year. Thank you for everything throughout this year and I wish you, your families and loved ones every joy and blessing for Christmas and for 2026. Rev Shelley Walker | Te Awamutu Methodist Parish

St Andrews Presbyterian Church

22 December: Sunday 21 December All-age Christmas Family Fun Family Service for allService ages 10am. 25 December: Thursday 25 December Christmas Day Day celebration celebration 10 10am. Christmas am. 29 December: Sunday 28 December Cafécafe-style style service in the church service in the lounge 10 10am. Lounge am.

All Welcome

Te Awamutu Methodist Church 261 Bank St

CHRISTMAS SERVICES The Te Awamutu Presbyterian Church welcomes everyone to our Service on Christmas Day at 9.30am There will be NO service on the 28th of December

80 Mutu St, Te Awamutu 07 871 6609

PARISH OF ST JOHN

Sat 6th Dec: 6pm: Carols • St Saviours Sun 7th Dec: 6pm: Carols Christ Church Kihikihi Sun 14th Dec: 7 pm: Lessons and Carols • St Paul’s Hairini Fri 12th Dec: 6pm: Family hour with Jesus’ family, food and prayer Thurs 18 Dec: 7pm: Blue Christmas St John’s (A quiet service of Hope) Christmas Eve: 11.15 pm Carols and Midnight Mass St John’s Christmas Day: 9am Family Christmas St Paul’s Hairini 9.15am Family Christmas St Saviours, Pirongia 9.30 am Family Christmas St John’s, Te Awamutu Sun 28 Dec: 9.30 St John’s 4.30pm St Paul’s Te Reo service

Kihikihi

Presbyterian Church Church Services 10am 21st December Dr Terry Cowland Christmas Day 9.30am Rev Ken Wall 28th December Rev Ken Wall 4th January Rev Ken Wall

All Welcome 5 Whitmore St, Kihikihi

TE AWAMUTU NEWS | 13

THURSDAY DECEMBER 18, 2025

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Quick crossword 1

Wordsearch 4

6 7

11 12 13

18 20

Across 1. Reserve (4) 4. Assert (6) 8. Flourish (7) 9. Woo (5) 10. Surprise attack (4) 11. Adventure (8) 13. Mischievous imp (9) 17. Flare-up (8) 19. Unadulterated (4) 21. Lightweight wood (5)

22. Important person (colloq) (3,4) 23. Go back on a deal (6) 24. Bean protein (4) Down 2. Get rid of (7) 3. Retained (4) 4. Feckless (13) 5. Gregarious (8) 6. Steam bath (5)

7. Speak (5) 8. Knitting stitch (4) 12. Stubborn (8) 14. Badly behaved (7) 15. Uncertainty (5) 16. Nuisance (4) 18. Fine net fabric (5) 20. A long time (4)

Last week Across: 1. Odour, 4. Drench, 8. Frantic, 9. Corgi, 10. Horde, 11. Dilemma, 12. Remote, 14. Holler, 17. Cyclone, 19. Indie, 21. Rebel, 22. Propose, 23. Redden, 24. Splat. Down: 1. Off the record, 2. On air, 3. Retreat, 4. Decide, 5. Excel, 6. Caramel, 7. Disagreement, 13. Macabre, 15. Ominous, 16. Deepen, 18. Oiled, 20. Drool.

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426

Fill the grid so that every column, every row and every 3x3 box contains the digits 1 to 9.

MEDIUM

All puzzles © The Puzzle Company

Last week Sudoku

Wordsearch O E Z G I B T Y S E S T U D O K M N S M N C W V L M N T O R Q U E P D U I E E G L G E O E P T I A R A A A O L R C J A G B L O N A R I N G S A L V A K O I G K Q A D W S B A N G L E E L L C G N E D S R S S T R I N G M R D A M A U N M B I M T H E W P I O W Q C J L E S Z E R G L O S Q I I O O W E R P C H A I N O N E N L W M N D I A M O N D L K S T O E T E M E S P E M W F I G O L D W R C T A H D T P S A P P H I R E S M I I H S A A O C H O K E R S Q S C O R O N E T L N C H A R M B R A C E L E T B G S L E J E W E L S L G A M E T H Y S T I I T A R R Z G C A R A T S C A M E O S U S D S O L I T A I R E L N U K N Y E N B E R Y L E L O C K E T S G Y N

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14 | TE AWAMUTU NEWS

THURSDAY DECEMBER 18, 2025

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TE AWAMUTU NEWS | 15

THURSDAY DECEMBER 18, 2025

AGISTMENT

SITUATIONS VACANT

GRAZING available for dairy heifers. Ph 027 415 4122

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AUGUST 28,

Ingham has

Ingham

Bailey businesses quality farmers and stop Experts in providing is a oneof accounting and in all aspects shop professional advice for all yourr PAYE, taxation planning FBT, Individual/Employe company, - including GST, and farming and family guidance - Succession planning personal advice and - Trust administration needs. financial Carolyn Dew,administration including Companies Business Manager - ce Offi

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41 Bank St Te Awamutu

3800

e chop Saplings get th AUGUST 28, 2025

s.nz teawamutunew

FREE

see that disappointed to “I’m definitely has been chosen.” this course of action fact some people the In reference to strip in the trees were planted trees on a median level. were annoyed strip between the street Newly planted cut off near groundas the ly, on the median Kihikihi have been said “unfortunate – also known and cycleway Holt the things that can The 10 ginkgo biloba on Whitmore St, part these are feel - were Maidenhair tree cycle-friendly sometimeswhen people possibly don’t pedestrian and transpire of an extensive received mixed reviews. heard”. of frustration with project which has a planned or random This apparent sign on from issues over Whether it was follows hikihi Community in council projects Memorial Park attack, Te Awamutu-Ki benches at the War to restore rather Holt said she’s aging Ange chair work Board Te Awamutu wherewas described in a council disappointed. that someone than replace them of “It is really disappointing as vandalism. this, because regardless to The or media release writer things letter has resorted to a we all are, wreckingsaid. In early August lamented: “the how frustrated the answer,” Holt us all, News, Geoff Boxell, Waipā District Council vandalism isn’t the day, it still costs These financially strapped trees along the green “At the end of renters. or deciduous rate payers is installing whether we’re the unwanted Kihikihi for the Waipā District it strips that divide roads”. to clean are additional costs the replace them or buying cycle path from just the costs of that Council to either not was it said fact He up. trees, it was the and installing the drop their leaves the and they would eventually both the cycle path every autumn on

By Jesse Wood

Semi Retired

John Crichton

027 485 5654

The saplings were

cut down.

metres road. tree reach seven be a The deciduous Photo: Roy Pilott. girth – which would with a two metre strip it was planted on. the they were attacked. tight squeeze on fast growing and have trees that will maidenhairs after than deciduous The row of Whitmore with patterns rather They are relatively which can damage had lots of the road and cycleway causing We’ve already drop leaves on a strong root system – and underground of roots possibly plant them there. said. the additional risk paths and foundations complaints,” Holt road is wide enough but surface damage”. it from a services. trees can be purchased “Technically, the road’s not wide enough road said “when you think about Holt Small Ginkgo biloba$67 and $180. big sweeper is the - and the perception perspective, the they’re and machinery biloba common-sense in Waipā for between cut-down ginkgo for these big tractorstrees on median. use for the leaves, they’re The label on the erect trucks that they then we’re planting solved the leaf problem, a “neat, narrowly able to get in there not going to be trees report it is confined tight spaces... the cycleway. wouldn’t have “It down them for drive to going have planted too big and form excellent only way that you’reinto but could we not New Zealand... and the footpath?” “I presume the fall underutilised in streets, avenues and between the cycleway leaves when they The News “if the to get rid of the pay staff with a blower to effective in narrow Geoff Boxell told to is unwanted gardens. the home trucks, cycleway beautify the out. How small the been raised that council wants to blow the leaves it?” were The issue has also walk along and grass dividers betweenshould to maintain heavy machinery and unneeded in Kihikihi, they root are the staff proposing tractors and other with the street width small cycleway and roads evergreens with already struggling planted. use low growing were to before the trees that they chose “I was quite surprised

Photo Roy Pilott

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Presbyterian Church CHURCH SERVICES 10am 21st December Dr Terry Cowland Christmas Day 9.30am Rev Ken Wall 28th December Rev Ken Wall 4th January Rev Ken Wall All Welcome

5 Whitmore St, Kihikihi

KUTIA (WYLD), Dawn Irene – Passed away on 1st December 2025, aged 79 years. Much loved wife, mother, grandmother and great grandmother. All communications please to the Aykroyd family, PO Box 137, Te Awamutu 3840. Te Awamutu Funeral Services, FDANZ PUGH, Raewyn Joan – Passed away peacefully at home, aged 79 years. Loved daughter of the late Edna and Jack, and cherished mother of Debra. Grandmother to Jack and Curtis. Raewyn lived a quiet, private life and, in keeping with her wishes, a private cremation has been held. Messages to the Pugh family may be sent c/- 262 Ohaupo Road, Te Awamutu 3800, or left in Raewyn’s online tribute book at www. rosetown.co.nz.

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KELMAN, Alexander George (Sandy) – Slipped away peacefully on Thursday 11 December 2025, aged 89. Loved father and father-inlaw of Sandra & Campbell; Peter & Margaret; and Stuart & Kim. Adored grandad and great grandad. A service has been held. In lieu of flowers, the family would welcome an online donation to Hospice Waikato. Grateful thanks to Dr Ayesha Haque, and the staff at Freeman Court and CHT Te Awamutu. All communications to the Kelman family, PO Box 137, Te Awamutu 3840. Te Awamutu Funeral Services, FDANZ

Garth Williams

Where Waipā gets its News THURSDAY

DEATH NOTICES

FUNERAL SERVICES

Ph 022 0844 349

NO GST CHARGE

DEATH NOTICES

Christmas Hours: Friday 19th – OPEN 9am – 1pm Monday 22nd – Wednesday 24th – OPEN 10am – 1pm Thursday 25th and Friday 26th – CLOSED Monday 29th - Wednesday 31st – OPEN 10am – 1pm Thursday 1st and Friday 2nd – CLOSED Normal hours resume Monday 5th January 2026 For enquires outside of these hours, please phone 871 4111 or 0800 367 222 and leave a brief message. JP Clinic: Last JP clinic for 2025 is Friday 19th December, JP’s will then take a 2-week break and be back Monday 5th January 2026 at 9.30am. We would like to thank you all for your support over the past year and wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Citizens Advice Bureau Te Awamutu Ray White Arcade, 2/213 Alexandra Street, Te Awamutu Phone: 871 4111

Our team is caring and compassionate. We give the utmost attention to detail in all aspects of our service.

Jim Goddin, Teri Keir & Jordan Goss - Funeral Directors

Support when you need it most Saying goodbye is never easy, but our local, compassionate team is here 24/7 to guide you with care and respect.

Ngā Pou Whakawhirinaki o Aotearoa

SITUATIONS VACANT

Farm Employment Vacancy Part time approx. 3 or 4 days per week. Dairy Goat Farm. Milk 500 housed dairy goats. Mow, pick up grass and feed into housing barn, plus, effluent management and general farm duties Must be competent in milking, animal health, diary hygiene system and have machinery and general farm skills. May suit semi- retired person.

Ph/Txt 027 4853 773 or 0274 781783

07 870 2137 262 Ohaupo Road, Te Awamutu www.rosetown.co.nz

SIRCOMBE, Rosemary Moira – 8/11/1951 8/12/2025. Passed away peacefully after a short illness. Together again with her loved partner Colin Kjeldsen. Will be missed by the family she loved. A memorial service will be held at a later date. Donations in lieu of flowers, to St Johns stjohn.org. nz would be appreciated. All communications to the Sircombe family, PO Box 137, Te Awamutu 3840. Te Awamutu Funeral Services, FDANZ

Family Notices

• Engagements • Weddings • Births • Anniversaries • Bereavements • In Memoriam etc

Call Janine 027 287 0005 or email janine@goodlocal.nz

PUBLIC NOTICES

Rosetown Te Awamutu Lions Club Charitable Trust

OPEN HOMES

TE AWAMUTU OPEN HOMES FIRST NATIONAL Sunday 21 December 7 Ngahuia Place

Locally owned and operated

CHRISTMAS RAFFLE 2025 1st Prize: Christmas Sleigh Prizes, Ticket No 7536, Barb.

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Contact listing agent prior-visiting as Open Homes times can change.

GOT A NEWS TIP? email editor@goodlocal.nz

2nd Prize: $250 Grocery Voucher, Ticket No 1601, Els. 3rd Prize: $150 Grocery Voucher, Ticket No 6986, Margaret. Rosetown Lions Club thank the Te Awamutu Businesses for your generosity & thank the Public for your ongoing overwhelming support. All funds raised are donated to local Community Groups. We wish everyone a wonderful Christmas & Best Wishes for 2026. Organiser J. Elers.

16 | TE AWAMUTU NEWS

THURSDAY DECEMBER 18, 2025

murray hunt furnishers

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learance stock (unless otherwise stated) and not to be used in conjunction with any other offer. See in-store for details. We reserve the right to correct errors or misprints. 30 day Comfort Guarantee Ts and Cs apply. ailable on Q Card Flexi Payment Plans. A $50 Annual Account Fee and $55 Establishment Fee for new Q Cardholders or a $35 Advance Fee for existing Q Cardholders will apply. Minimum payments of 3% of the monthly closing the end of the interest free period. Q Card Standard Interest Rate applies to any outstanding balance at end of interest free period. Q Card lending criteria, fees, terms and conditions apply. Latitude Financial Services: Normal the interest free period. Gem Visa and Latitude Credit Line are provided by Latitude Financial Services. For more information on our terms and conditions please see your nearest store or visit our website bedsrus.co.nz

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WISHING YOU A MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A SAFE HOLIDAY PERIOD FROM THE TEAM WE WILL BE CLOSED FROM 1PM WEDNESDAY 24, AND RE-OPEN 9AM MONDAY 5 JANUARY 2026

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63 Maniapoto St Otorohanga | Ph 07 873 8640

220 Alexandra Street Te Awamutu | Ph 07 214 2161

45 Arawata Street Te Awamutu | Ph 07 214 2244