Te Awamutu News | July 2, 2026

Flushed with pride

By Mary Anne Gill

Waipā’s biggest infrastructure project has been handed over with a simple but heartfelt request.

“Please take great care of the baby.”

Chief executive Steph O’Sullivan’s words drew smiles from the crowd gathered at the new Cambridge Wastewater Treatment Plant this week as the $108.5 million plus facility opened and was then promptly passed from council ownership to Waikato Waters.

There was pride too. This was a project years in the making, delivered on time, and built not just with concrete and steel but with relationships, patience and shared purpose.

Mayor Mike Pettit called it a foundation for a “healthy, growing and successful district”, designed to give Cambridge, Leamington, Hautapu and Karāpiro the capacity and confidence to grow while

protecting the Waikato River.

But O’Sullivan’s speech revealed a deeper story.

She went off script to recall the early days of the project in 2009 when she and iwi representatives were first talking through the idea.

Back then, she was working in an environmental role alongside Ngāti Korokī Kahukura representatives including Poto Davies. The technology they were considering did not stack up.

“If we’d gone ahead with what we were thinking then, it wouldn’t be compliant today,” she said.

Taking time, pausing and waiting for the right solution proved critical.

For O’Sullivan, the project has always been as much personal as professional. Her earlier work with the Waikato River Authority and through Treaty settlement discussions shaped her view of the river not as policy but as a living relationship. The partnership with mana whenua,

including Ngāti Hauā and Ngāti Korokī Kahukura, has been central from the outset.

Pettit said their input helped shape the project at every stage, ensuring cultural knowledge sat alongside technical expertise.

“Technical knowledge matters deeply,” said O’Sullivan. “But the knowledge that comes from generations of living with the environment matters just as much.”

The project is one of the first in the region where mātauranga Māori and engineering have been woven together in the design and delivery.

Behind the scenes, a long list of people carried the work through.

Among them was Lorraine Kendrick of Beca, whose connection with O’Sullivan stretches back years. O’Sullivan singled her out.

Kendrick’s involvement dates back to the original project team and continued through to oversight as the plant took shape, ensuring consistency

through design changes, consenting and construction.

Project manager Marie McIntyre was also recognised, her role described by O’Sullivan as career defining.

Across years of planning, consenting and delivery, McIntyre helped carry the responsibility of getting the project to completion in what was a complex and highly scrutinised environment.

While it was easy to see the finished product as a series of tanks and pipes on the edge of town, O’Sullivan reminded the crowd the real story lay elsewhere.

“It’s the site meetings, the late reviews, the conversations, the trust, the challenge,” she said. “That’s what got us here.”

Now, as Waikato Waters takes over, the plant moves into its next phase. It will operate largely unseen, quietly doing its job.

• Waikato Waters chief named – See page 2

Recycling Tokanui

More than 81 tonnes of metal have been recycled as part of the demolition and remediation of the former Tokanui Psychiatric Hospital. And enough rimu timber panels to cover about half a tennis court have been salvaged. The recycled metal can be used to make new products.

Toitū Te Whenua Land Information New Zealand is four months into the project and demolition of the industrial area. Work has started on former ward buildings and foundations will be removed in September. The site is crisscrossed with underground services including water and steam pipes and communications and electricity cables. Contractors will remove all these services down to a depth of 800mm. They have started work on the underground services by removing old concrete ducts that once carried steel pipes used to move high‑pressure steam around the site. This steam was used to heat the buildings.

The next stage of works will also focus on the upgrade of the closed landfill.

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In the business news

A six-year-old Waikato boy gazing skyward at balloons has inspired thousands of children around the world through a career that began at Balloons over Waikato and led to classrooms in more than 80 countries.

It is a reminder of how Waikato stories often start small and grow into something much bigger. That thread runs through the latest Waikato Business News, where growth, change and quiet confidence sit alongside the region’s everyday realities. There is momentum in tourism and investment, but also a recognition that opportunity has to be worked for. Farmers talk cautiously about better returns while keeping an eye on rising costs. Community efforts sit alongside that, with a Hamilton choir helping raise funds to strengthen St Peter’s Cathedral, showing how local support continues to underpin the region’s institutions.

Elsewhere, questions are being asked about the long term value of major assets like Hamilton Airport and how regions position themselves for the next phase of growth.

Across the hill, Bay of Plenty Business News reflects a similar moment. Tauranga’s skyline is full of cranes, but the challenge now is bringing people and life back into the city centre. Plus columnist Todd Muller reflects on Kane Williamson’s “quiet leadership” and we meet the man who pioneered the Ruby Red kiwifruit.

• More: goodlocal.nz

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On the beat

Trio face action following burglaries

Last week brought the end of a longrunning investigation into a retail burglary, along with several attempted and completed car thefts that occurred around Leamington back in February.

After officers executed two search warrants on Thursday, three young people are now working their way through the youth aid and youth court process.

Staff were called to a crash on Tīrau Road, Karapiro. The driver, who was already disqualified, subsequently blew almost four times the legal breathalcohol limit. He faces associated charges in court.

Te Awamutu police dealt with a similar situation when a man decided to drive home after drinking in town. His breath alcohol reading came back at more than three times the limit, and he too will be appearing in court. If you’re planning a night out or even just a couple of drinks after work, please also plan a safe, legal way to get home.

Last week police also responded to a family harm incident in Te Awamutu where two people reported being assaulted. A Police Safety Order (PSO) was issued to a male involved, but he breached it soon after and was rearrested. He now faces charges

2027 Enrolments

The Board invites applications from parents who wish to enrol their children at Te Awamutu Intermediate for 2027. If the number of out-of-zone applications exceeds the number of places available, students will be selected by ballot.

Closing date for out-of-zone applications is Friday 28 August 2026 th Ballot, if required - Tuesday 1 September 2026 st Applicants notified - Thursday 3 September 2026 rd

Online enrolment forms for all students are available on our school website www.teawamutuint.school.nz from Monday 27 July 2026 th

Although we will continue to accept enrolments we strongly encourage you to enrol by 18 September 2026 to assist the school to plan appropriately for next year.

for all related offending.

Next, a call for information. Many in Waipā will know the Urban Miners. They are a volunteer group offering environmentally friendly ewaste recycling. Their base on Arnold Street, Leamington has been hit by burglars three times in the last six weeks, causing significant damage and loss. It’s disheartening for the volunteers. If you know anything about who may be responsible, please contact Police (file 260625/5227). And if you live nearby and spot anything suspicious, please call 111 straight away.

Finally, a small reminder about selfpay systems. Apps like BPMe make paying for petrol easy.

Unless you’re using prepay, please do doublecheck the transaction has actually gone through before driving off.

Police periodically receive theft reports that turn out to be simple payment glitches. The same goes for selfservice supermarket checkouts — customers tap their card, make the assumption it has processed, and walk out, only for the store management to find it didn’t complete. A simple rule: ensure you pay, then walk away.

Waikato Waters chief named

The chief executive of the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority has been named chief executive of Waikato Waters. Marcos Pelenur will join the organisation in October.

Waikato Waters is a council controlled organisation jointly owned by Waipā, Ōtorohanga, Waitomo, South Waikato, Hauraki and Matamata Piako district councils.

It began operations yesterday when Waipā, Waitomo and South Waikato councils passed over their water and wastewater services.

Board chair Elena Trout said Dr Pelenur had extensive leadership experience in a highly regulated environment and was known for building strong teams and enduring relationships with key stakeholders.

Auckland based Trout already works with Pelenur – she also chairs the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority.

Interim Waikato Waters chief executive Neil Brennan will stay on in an advisory role for another year – through to July 2027 when the remaining councils will have transferred their water and wastewater services.

CountryLife

Reach a

Honour

for Jim Ōhaupō’s Jim van der Poel was given a standing ovation in Auckland on Monday when he was recognised for his service to the dairy sector with an Outstanding Contribution to Primary Industries Award. North Waikato’s Neil Bateup was announced winner of the Champion Award, recognising his support for farmers and rural families.

Driver charged

A 21 year old man was charged with dangerous driving after police found a car crashed in a ditch on Old Mountain Road, Karamu on Monday evening. Earlier, they had taken several calls about a blue sedan doing burnouts and putting other vehicles at risk on the road of Te Pahu Road.

Body identified

Police say the body of missing fisherman Dilane Harding was found after being sighted by officers on the Eagle helicopter near Albatross Point, Taharoa. The 55 year old’s body was recovered on Sunday, and the death has been referred to the coroner’s office.

Story missed

A short story which should have run under a photo last week was accidentally mixed with another article. The story explained that road damage costs in Waipā following February storms were estimated at $1.72 to $1.8 million and district councillors had taken the view that delaying the work would result in it costing more – so would borrow to fund some of the work.

Dirt bikes

Three weeks after the issue was raised in Deb Hann’s weekly On the Beat column, Hamilton Police have impounded another dirt bike as part of an ongoing enforcement operation to target illegal and dangerous dirt bike behaviour. To date, 16 dirt bikes have been seized as part of the operation.

Town centre pots panned

By Jesse Wood

Seven decorative pots from Alexandra, Sloane and Arawata Streets in Te Awamutu are set to be removed.

Board member John Wood’s motion at the June Te Awamutu and Kihikihi Community Board meeting was passed with enthusiasm.

“The big pots throughout the main street of Te Awamutu and one in Sloane Street have been a community bugbear for quite some time,” Wood said.

“This was due to them being frequently pushed over; used to put rubbish and other less savoury things in; reducing visibility of pedestrians especially small children – as some are near crossings – and they’re not conducive to the look of the town.”

The community board had requested the pots’

removal in the last triennium but there was not a budget available to do so to cover the approximately $10,000 cost.

Through Wood’s community connections he has found a significantly cheaper option via Innovative Farm Services from Pārāwera.

The board approved the expenditure of $2000 plus GST to remove the pots as long as the work complies with the requirements as set out by the Waipā District Council transport service team.

The money allocated will come from the community board future projects funds.

A Hiab (heavy duty, truck mounted hydraulic crane) will lift and place the pots onto a truck.

Wood said he understands that contractor will dispose of the pots unless someone wants to house them.

As a council asset,

Waipā District Council transportation manager Bryan Hudson supported the project.

After further consultation with Hudson, roadworks will be happening in those streets in early July. That is when the pots are likely to be removed.

“I’ve been to Waipā Networks and as far as they’re concerned, the cable is a good 600mm down, so it won’t affect that,” Wood said.

“We have received support from the transport team who will manage the traffic management for this work, which is likely to be conducted in the early hours to avoid as much inconvenience to passing traffic.

“We’re aiming to do it at about 4am.”

Board chairperson Ange Holt said Fonterra were happy with the timing, as it’s unlikely to affect their tankers.

Councillor Shane Walsh seconded the proposal and it was passed unanimously

“I just want to acknowledge the great work that John’s done to organise the task,” Walsh said.“I’d

also like to acknowledge Bryan Hudson, who has been very cooperative in terms of providing a health and safety resource for the marvellous occasion when these pots will be removed.”

Community hall hits century

July 5 will marks a century since the first meeting was held in the Mangapiko Hall – it was officially opened on July 26, 1926.

Halfway between Pirongia and Te Awamutu, the rural Waipā facility is still in good condition and use.

Ngaire Phillips details the hall’s origins in her book My Family Story.

Ngaire’s grandfather J.T. (John) Johnson was one of three trustees when the Mangapiko Settlers’ Hall Association was formed in 1925, alongside Charles Alexander and John Ryan.

The Johnsons have been in the district since 1908, when J.T. brought his family north from Masterton, hence Johnson Rd.

The hall was built by a Mr Hastings, on the site of the Mangapiko creamery, which had fallen into disuse and was pulled down in 1925.

The opening evening commenced with the playing of the national anthem by the Te Awamutu Orphans’ Orchestra before Waipā County Council chairman Samuel Macky declared the hall open.

More than 250 people were present.

Te Awamutu mayor Leonard Armstrong congratulated the settlers upon their enterprise.

A concert followed, then Johnson spoke about some of his impressions of the district in the 18 years he had lived here.

Johnson said the Mangapiko district had happily made such progress since then; so also had Te Awamutu, which at that time was a town district.

Roads throughout had improved, the school enlarged, telephones, rural mail services, electric light and power in fact, he could not think of any district where the amenities of life were so good and attractive as Mangapiko.

After supper, the floor was cleared and for at least three hours Dalton’s Orchestra was kept busily occupied playing for the many dancers.

At about 3am the event was brought to a close.

“I imagine that my grandparents would have left for home after supper as they were a family

who did not dance,” Ngaire said.

“After the Mangapiko Hall was opened in 1926 many a school concert was held on its stage.

“Miss Cameron is well remembered for her organisation of such functions with their crepe paper costumes.

“One of the concerts was held to raise funds for the first school radio to enable the pupils to listen to the broadcasts to school.

“Harold and Herbert Hey were talented entertainers at concerts organised by the school committee to raise funds for the school.”

In the 1920s and 1930s the hall was also used as a venue for Presbyterian Church services.

“Many a play, skits and concerts were performed on the stage. But the stage was used less and less.”

Indoor bowls and table tennis became popular and more floor space was needed. So the stage was pulled out and a new entrance made. Other alterations have since been made.

Bowls are still played during the winter months.

“Looking back there was probably more progress [for Mangapiko] in that 45 years from 1880 to 1925 than at any other time since,” Ngaire said.

There will be no centenary celebration for the hall but it still remains a well cared for country hall.

Kia ora and welcome to Waikato Waters

Your council is one of six district councils across the region who have joined forces to create a new organisation to deliver future-fit water and wastewater services to Waikato communities.

As your council was among the first to transfer you may have already noticed our staff working in your neighbourhood. For the most part, the people haven’t changed – they’re simply wearing different uniforms and have our branding on their vehicles.

We’re

Our relationship with you

When you become a customer of Waikato Waters, you are automatically covered by our customer contract. It outlines what you can expect from us, and what we need from you as a customer.

keeping things simple in year one

In our first year, day-to-day services will feel the same. You will keep paying your council for your water and wastewater services. Current water and wastewater charges were set by your council. We will set charges from 1 July 2027.

You can find our customer contract on our website waikatowaters.co.nz by searching ‘customer contract’.

Our focus for the first year

Set strong foundations

Build trusted relationships

Ensure a smooth transition

Take stock of our performance, and asset condition

Understand first, act second

By taking the time to get this right, we’ll be in a better position to invest wisely, manage costs responsibly and deliver better outcomes for our communities.

We’re responsible for:

Your council is responsible for:

One tower makes lots of rings

By Mary Anne Gill

A 25 metre high mobile phone tower east of Cambridge is helping close long standing coverage gaps for communities, including the Hobbiton movie set which draws about 600,000 visitors a year.

Further towers are planned within the next 12 months for Cambridge West in Kelly Road and Gorton Road, Karāpiro.

One in Frontier Road, Te Awamutu was among the first six new sites completed

in the last year, improving coverage in the western part of Waipā.

The work forms part of a wider push to improve connectivity across the region and is critical infrastructure, Waikato MP Tim van de Molen said at the Hobbiton site launch this week.

Reliable mobile coverage was now expected, particularly along state highways, he said.

The new tower would help fill a black spot along State Highway 29, a key

freight route linking Waikato with the Bay of Plenty and the Port of Tauranga.

“If you can have reliable connectivity through what is a really busy state highway corridor, that is a massive safety gain.”

The structure sits on a 93 hectare farm owned by James Hailwood and Kylie Perry, about 24 kilometres east of Cambridge overlooking Hobbiton and State Highway 29. For the couple, the impact has been immediate.

“There were spots on the farm where you could get coverage, but most places you couldn’t,” James said.

The surrounding landscape is the same rolling farmland that led film makers to choose the area for Hobbiton more than two decades ago. Its uninterrupted green hills and natural contours, largely free of modern structures, created the perfect setting for the Shire.

That elevated, open terrain also makes it ideal for a telecommunications site, with clear line of sight across the Waikato.

The couple have strong links with Cambridge through their children’s schooling and social activities and say better

connectivity makes rural life easier and safer.

The tower is one of a series being rolled out across the Waikato by infrastructure company Fortysouth in partnership with mobile network operators including One New Zealand and Spark.

Together, work at the sites is aimed at improving coverage along key transport routes and in rural communities where service has been patchy for years.

Van de Molen said the investment would also support economic growth. Better digital access opened up opportunities for farming technology, tourism and business.

“Alongside safety, it’s a huge economic opportunity,” he said.

One New Zealand chief technology officer Kieran Byrne said mobile networks were now essential to daily life.

“People rely on them every day for safety, business and staying connected,” he said.

“Strengthening coverage across Waikato supports growth and helps communities operate more effectively.”

The network upgrades come as the wider

Cambridge and Te Awamutu areas continue to expand, and housing and traffic places pressure on infrastructure.

For Te Awamutu residents, the Frontier Rd site has already improved reliability in the west.

Fortysouth chief commercial officer Steve Rieger said the Waikato remained a priority because of its rapid growth and its role within the Golden Triangle between Auckland, Hamilton and Tauranga.

The Hobbiton location also highlights the role

tourism plays. Visitors expect seamless mobile service.

Matamata Piako mayor Ash Tanner brought some humour to the issue, recalling how he once struggled with reception at home in Te Aroha.

“If I wanted to make a call, I had to sit in a certain seat and look out the window at just the right angle,” he said. “Now I can tell you it works. It’s brilliant.”

While that drew laughs, the message was clear. Reliable coverage is no longer a luxury.

The Farrell family

By Meghan Hawkes

According to family lore the Farrell family was feared lost at sea when their ship the Rob Roy, which had left Gibraltar for New Zealand in 1860, took six months to make the trip.

In reality the Rob Roy left from London and made a ‘fair average’ passage of 106 days at a time when a sea voyage from Europe to New Zealand typically took 75 to 120 days. With the voyage being on the longer side there was likely some apprehension and the story changed in the telling through the generations.

James Farrell, who had at one time been stationed at a military post in Malta, immigrated with his wife Bridget and their three children Ann, Edward and Mary. He was given a land grant at Awhitu (Waiuku). The family later moved to Mercer where unrest over land confiscations from Māori prompted them to return to Auckland.

James Jnr – ‘Jim’ – was born in 1862 and around this time the family moved to Alexander (Pirongia), journeying by paddle steamer via the Waipā River. With the outbreak of the Waikato War in 1863 James Snr joined the Third Waikato Militia and was stationed at Kihikihi. The Waikato campaign ended the next year. That year also James

and Bridget have a daughter, Elizabeth, who survived only four months. James Snr became the first chairman of the Kihikihi Town Board and filled other public offices. Mary was for a time Kihikihi’s popular postmistress and young Jim became a farmer. In 1899 the South African War or the Second Anglo-Boer War, began.

This was the first overseas conflict to involve New Zealand and Prime Minister Seddon was keen to demonstrate the country’s commitment to the British Empire, offering to send troops two weeks before fighting began. Hundreds of men signed up, among them six or seven volunteers from the Waikato Mounted Rifles, including Jim Farrell. He embarked on the SS Waimate which transported 268 men and 233 horses from Port Chalmers on March 31 1900. He was seriously wounded about the beginning of November and admitted to the civilian hospital and sanatorium camp at Kimberley. A cable message was sent to Prime Minister Seddon from the British High Commissioner of British South Africa stating that Jim was seriously ill. Seddon then wired the news to Jim’s family adding “As I have heard nothing since I

ON SHAKY GROUND

trust that by now he will be making good progress towards convalescence”.

For several weeks nothing further was heard until the news came that Jim had been invalided home, and had left South Africa on board the troop transport ship Chicago in February 1901. Near the end of February there was a knock at the Farrell’s door. The Rev Father Croke, in the kindest manner possible, broke the news that Jim had died of pneumonia and had been buried at sea with full military honours.

“Mrs Farrell is greatly advanced in years” noted the Waikato Argus, “and the shock must be a serious one to her.”

At two concerts later given in honour of returned troopers toasts were drunk in silence to the memory of Jim. At one, the New Zealand Boer war cry was performed.

The sea, which at one time was thought to have claimed the Farrells, now really was the last resting place of one of the family.

Deep-sea volcanism

By Janine Krippner

Over the past few columns, we have explored submarine eruptions near the surface. Once a volcanic edifice is high enough, with lava and rock stacking higher and higher from the sea floor through repeated eruptions, it can become explosive. We can also see it. We can see the waterrich, heavy ashfall that collapses towards the ocean, the white steam plumes from seawater evaporating, and the pyroclastic surges that can race across the ocean.

What is much more common, though, happens far deeper below the surface, where sunlight does not reach. The majority of our broad ocean floors were initially formed by volcanic activity over many millions of years. Much of this occurs at mid ocean ridges.

Mid ocean ridges are where tectonic plates pull apart and new seafloor is formed. The rate at which these plates rift apart varies. Faster and slower spreading centres form new seafloor in different ways, with varying amounts of volcanic activity and faulting.

Here, lava flows ooze out of fractures or vents, producing pillow lavas that are rounded like toes or fingers. These can stack up to build volcanic ridges or small cones. Lavas can also build steep “haystacks” that may be five to 150m high and 30 to 330m wide. These steep features can collapse to produce talus, which is a pile of sharp, broken, glassy rock.

Sheet lava flows can also cover the sea floor, forming flat surfaces. These can have lava tubes like we see on land, and they can break apart through fractures or collapse pits that produce more sharp edges.

A beautiful, peaceful, and still hazardous environment.

Is bigger better?

By Peter Nicholl

The Te Awamutu News in its last few issues has published a full page advertisement setting out five options for Waikato local government reorganisation. Four of them would see Waipā joining other Waikato councils to create larger unitary areas. The fifth option is ‘do nothing’. But this option added that after the 2028 local body elections, the government might impose amalgamation anyway.

There is an assumption behind these proposals that being bigger is better for efficiency, costs, and for implementing large or long term projects. The example that is generally used to back this idea is the Auckland Supercity which saw eight councils amalgamate in 2010. The government often says it takes an ‘evidence based approach’ to policies. But there is little or no ‘evidence’ that bigger local authorities are more efficient than smaller ones. The policy seems to be based on assumptions rather than evidence.

Some evidence I have seen casts doubt on the assumption. In 2022, the New Zealand Infrastructure Commission put out a report under the title Does Size Matter? They looked at impact of council size on the efficiency of road maintenance, building consent processes and overhead costs, over a 15 year period. Their main conclusion was the size of the local authority is neutral for cost efficiency. That is, the council size on its own does not decrease or increase cost-efficiency.

John Chapman, a consultant who lives in Cambridge, earlier this year published a report headed ‘Auckland’s amalgamation didn’t save money’. He said when the supercity was created the promise was clear: merge the councils, eliminate duplication

and tens of millions in savings will be unlocked.

Sixteen years later it is clear that Auckland hasn’t received these promised savings.

The Mayor of the Tasman region is opposing amalgamation with Nelson City. He made two very good points. Firstly, most of the advantages relating to finances, efficiency of service delivery and consistency of rules and regulations can be achieved without political amalgamation. The recent establishment of Waikato Waters seems to be an example of that.

Secondly, amalgamation would have a very detrimental impact on representation.

Three of the five options for the amalgamation in the Waikato would involve Waipa and a number of other smaller councils joining a larger body that included Hamilton City. The population of Hamilton is close to 200,000. Cambridge, with 22,000 people, is the second biggest Waikato town. The total population of the 12 largest Waikato towns outside Hamilton is just over 100,000. The Waikato is not a super-city like Auckland. It has separate towns with separate needs and interests.

I think amalgamation would be a disaster for representation and there is no evidence that it will lead to increased efficiency and lower costs. The only thing we know for sure is that there will be substantial front end costs implementing the amalgamation. Waipā should adopt Option E: do nothing. If the government wants to impose something on the Waikato after the 2028 election, they should be asked to provide evidence to back up their proposal.

FAITH IN WAIPĀ

Very slowly, sediment can drift down through the water column to coat the glassy rock, allowing researchers to estimate relative ages.

If one group of lavas has 5cm of fine sediment, and a pile next to it has 1cm, the one with less sediment is likely to be younger.

It may take a thousand years, or longer, to accumulate just a few centimetres.

Because of how volcanic activity occurs, scattered across many kilometres, we do not always simply define one clear feature as “a volcano”.

There may be many cones, fractures, and vents surrounded by more faults that form as the seafloor breaks to accommodate tectonic plate movement.

These areas are also where we can have hydrothermal activity, where life can thrive in darkness under enormous pressures and at high temperatures. Tall chimneys can eventually grow, with fluids shooting out the top.

We do not just learn about geology in these areas, we learn more about life itself. It is uncommon to witness eruptions at these depths. Much of the seafloor, under thousands of metres of water, has not been seen through a remotely operated vehicle camera.

It is expensive and logistically challenging to collect data out in the middle of an ocean. When I am doing research in these locations, I look at every scrap of information from the area, as well as from similar areas, to piece together the puzzle of the deep. There are still many discoveries ahead of us.

A ‘cross’ road…

By Murray Smith, Bridges Church

A friend living in the centre of Cambridge enjoys walking. His favourite route includes the pathway around Lake Te Koo Utu.

Lighting up that area at night, the town cross rises high above the lake. It is readily visible from its position adjacent to the main Victoria Road roundabout, but it’s lit from behind too, therefore highly visible from the lake.

Knowing of my involvement with those sponsoring the cross, my friend recently sent this note: “Just wanted to let you know how much your cross of light is a comfort to me as I walk the park at night. I see it from nearly everywhere.

Sometimes when I see it, I’m convicted in myself but mostly I’m blessed by the light shining in the dark!”

He’s so right. The cross is both ‘comforting’ and ‘confronting.’

It offends some… for countless millions, it speaks of hope and saving grace. Jesus Christ was crucified on a cruel Roman cross thus it became a symbol of Christian faith. He rose again three days later, attested to by hundreds of eyewitnesses.

Rome executed countless guilty criminals and rebels by crucifixion, yet Jesus was innocent.

He questioned a crowd, “Which one of you can accuse me of any sin?” Nobody could. It took false accusations to condemn Him.

Jesus came as God’s sacrificial substitute the punishment we deserved for sin was borne by Jesus the eternal, righteous son of God.

The death penalty for our sin and humanity’s evil was atoned for. Rising again, He vanquished the power of death

and hell. It’s now on us, whether we’ll choose the gift of salvation freedom from guilt and shame, restored relationship with God.

Years ago, I was doing visitation in Mt Eden prison.

A young man related how despair had propelled him to end his life in a cell. He twisted a crude rope and noose from a bedsheet, then standing atop a chair on a table, attached it to a ceiling fitting. He hesitated before kicking the chair away and the sight of a cross on nearby St Peter’s College beyond the tiny cell window caught his eye.

Staring at the cross, he became transfixed… he remembered hearing Jesus loved him and died in his place. ‘Seeing’ the cross melted his heart, igniting a flicker of hope.

He climbed down knelt there on the cell floor, turning his life over to God.

A high board diving champion was once restless, struggling to sleep one dark night. He got up to go down to the pool.

Climbing high to where he regularly practiced diving from, he walked to the end of the board.

Standing in soft moonlight, with arms outstretched he steadied himself to dive. He became riveted by the ‘cross-shape’ his body caste as a shadowy, elongated silhouette spreading below.

Staring, arrested by ‘the cross’, saved his life…alerting him the pool had been drained hours earlier.

Everything changes when someone ‘sees’ and receives the message of the cross.

Waikato pipped at the post

By Jesse Wood

Hong King China left it to the last minute to seal a 24-22 win over a Waikato XV in an international hosted by Te Awamutu Sports last week.

Waikato, with club players from seven premier clubs les 10 7 at the break.

Former King Country Rams Josh Balme, Alex Thrupp and Patrick Hedley featured in the 25 man matchday squad, alongside Ōtorohanga product Taipari Quinn (Fraser Tech).

Hautapu boasted Hedley, Waisake Salabiau, Andrew Smith, Rui Farrant and Michael Naitokani, as well as flanker Tyler McNutt in the Hong Kong China team.

Te Awamutu Sports were also well represented. Captain Jake Russ, Austin Anderson, Zealin Prime, Tairoa Crean took the field in front of home support.

Former Sports players involved were front-rowers Quinn and Sean Ralph now at Hamilton Old Boys.

Kaipaki-based Waikato head coach Leon Holden said it was about giving back to those players and their clubs as well as creating depth.

“This team worked hard in our high performance environment during the club season,” Holden said.

“All the players have committed themselves to additional trainings on Monday nights since the start of March and

deserve to be congratulated for their efforts.

“It was neat to pick from so many different clubs. It’s part of my overall strategy of trying to strengthen club rugby and make our base bigger.

Mooloo try scorers at Albert Park were Salabiau, Mosese Mafi, Kurtis Hana and Ralph.

Holden said even with the wet conditions, it was a very physical game and told fans “your support, energy and passion make these occasions so special for our players and our rugby community”.

“Talking to the Hong Kong China coaches afterwards, they got a lot out of it. They’ve never really played in conditions like that – they play on turf and the weather is normally fairly good over there,” Holden said.

“They’ve got three test matches coming up and it was the best possible preparation for them. They got hit hard – our boys were fired up for the game.

“We got a lot out of it too. It was great to see some of those players at another level up from club rugby, to see how they handled it.

“They all handled it well – it was good to see where our depth levels are at ahead of the season.”

The Waikato squad players will be available for club finals in mid-July, followed by a short turnaround of a pre season game against Hawke’s Bay in Taupō and the NPC round one clash with Bay of Plenty on July 30.

Tate sets sights on Brisbane

By Jesse Wood

Te Kawa based Tate Burdon is 12 – and he is already looking forward to his third BMX World Championships.

New Zealand has lined up 285 riders to compete in the Sleeman Sports Complex in Brisbane later this month involving 351 entries across the 47 challenge and cruiser classes which include men and women from eight to 50 plus.

The Year 8 Korakonui School student is part of the Hamilton BMX Club and qualified for the world event via the 2025 New Zealand National Championships in Invercargill.

Mum Anne and dad Hamish will be juggling calving on their dairy farm but are

looking forward watching their son compete in Australia.

“Plate collection is July 16 so we will fly in on July 15 with racing July 22 25,” Anne said. Tate will race in the 12 year Boys Challenge (20 inch) and 8 12 year Boys Cruiser (24 inch) categories.

Currently ranked 16th in the UCI World Championship standings, Tate is Challenge NZ4 and Cruiser NZ2.

“Tate knows what it takes to compete at this level and although the training and preparation are never easy, he knows putting in the effort will help him place as highly as he can,” Anne said.

Tate has ridden the track previously at the 2024 and 2026 Oceania Champs.

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At Te Awamutu Funeral Services our dedicated team is passionate about providing valuable guidance and a personalised service at a time when you need it most. - Offering Generations of Experience -

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Across 1. Stolen goods (6)

5. Underground rail (6)

8. Canister (3)

9. Betting organiser (6) 10. Relating to the stars (6) 11. Arm or leg (4) 13. Crooked (8)

14. Scene of an event (5)

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Last week

19. Excessive confidence (8)

21. Defect (4)

22. Unoccupied (6)

23. Sluggish (6)

25. Mineral (3)

26. Unpowered aircraft (6)

27. Disorder, havoc (6) Down

2. Pledge (7)

3. Tattoo (inf) (3)

4. Reek (6) 5. Grab (6)

6. According to the rules (2,3,4)

7. Saying (5) 12. Avenue (9) 16. Authentic (7) 17. Winner (6) 18. Method (6) 20. Electronic communication (5) 24. Beam (3)

Across: 1. Clang, 4. Refuse, 7. Ode, 8. Embryo, 9. Garlic, 10. Blissful, 12. City, 13. Impale, 15. Anoint, 16. Info, 17. Playsuit, 19. Cavern, 20. Orphan, 22. Gum, 23. Gyrate, 24. Amble. Down: 1. Complimentary, 2. Air, 3. Go off, 4. Regalia, 5. Ferocious, 6. Spitting image, 11. Soap opera, 14. Expunge, 18. Aroma, 21. Pub.

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Sports celebrate home win

By Jesse Wood

Te Awamutu notched up a 36 19 over Morrinsville at Albert Park in the premier men’s Breweries Shield division – on a day when another match was abandoned after a referee was abused.

While competition leaders Marist were beating Fraser Tech 31 14 in a Hamilton derby, Te Awamutu won at the third attempt against a Morrinsville side also looking for their first win.

Fresh off his Wednesday appearance for Waikato XV against Hong Kong China, centre Tairoa Crean crossed the chalk for Te Awamutu.

First five-eighth Takoha Lunjevich, front-rower Albert Nadan, fullback Logan Karl and lock Lau Arona also scored tries for the home team.

Karl added two conversions and a penalty try was also registered.

Competition leaders Ōhaupō beat Frankton 41-19 at Swarbrick Park in the division 1A championship Captain Compost Cup. But the game was called off early after a Frankton player verbally abusing the referee who had shown him a card. Ōhaupō lead the

competition, Frankton are without a win after four games.

Winger Caleb Kennedy scored two tries for Ōhaupō. Lock Lachlan Dunn, pivot Dean Fullerton, flanker Trent Sargent and reserve back Byron Tonihi also crossed the line. Fullerton added four points off the tee and Ōhaupō were awarded a penalty try too.

In the earlier match, Ōhaupō B beat Frankton B 55 22.

In the premier championship Lone Star Cup Leamington beat Ōtorohanga 34-31 at Island Reserve.

Although Ōtorohanga gold scored five tries to three, the kicking of Leamington left winger Robert Day proved the difference. He kicked five penalties and two conversions as well as grabbing a try.

In the earlier championship WRU Trophy division match, the Ōtorohanga blues team beat Leamington B 38-7.

Te Awamutu Sports premier development also won at home against Morrinsville Sports B. Te Awamutu won 15 12 in the premier B Rowe Cup division clash. Openside flanker Dylan Jeffries, Hakota Touli and winger John Salinas grabbed

a try each in front of their supporters.

In the third match of the triple header at Albert Park, Te Awamutu Sports colts fell short against Morrinsville Sports’ under-22 team, 68-12.

In the presidents grade, Te Awamutu Marist Bushpigs had a 29 17 win against Melville Mustangs at Castleton Park on Friday night.

It was a great way to celebrate captain Cody Collins and Shaun Killalea’s blazer games for the Bushpigs.

Hautapu and Hautapu B had bye weeks, as did Hautapu Melville combined (Mel-tap) in the women’s premiership.

Pirongia paid a visit to Nola Block and beat Putāruru 38-17 in the division 1A Mooloo Shield clash.

Speedster Eparama Nadru scored a double for the mountain men.

Other Pirongia scorers were centre Jayden Darby, Charlie Mason, prop Lucas Dampney and midfield back Austin Frederick. Number 10 Issac Cullen and reserve Jason Hill added two conversions each.

Putāruru B were demolished 77 21 by the unbeaten Pirongia B in South Waikato.

Open

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Te Awamutu Concerts Alive! presents Auckland’s Trio Obscura Viola, Oboe & Piano

Sunday 5 July - 2pm St John’s Anglican Church Arawata Street, Te Awamutu $25 cash at the door. (Students/kids FREE) All welcome!

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TURNWALD, John Anton –

HADLEY, Rodger John. –

BOXELL, Lynette, (Lyn) –

Date: Sunday 2nd August 2026

Time: 10am Location: Te Kōpua Marae, 213 Morgan Rd, Pōkuru

Agenda:

1. Mihi and Karakia

2. Approval of 2025 AGM Minutes

3. Chairpersons Reports

4. Financial Statements and Auditor’s Report

5. Any written resolutions

6. Election of trustees, committee, and committee executives

All written motions must be received by the Secretary no less than 14 days prior to the AGM. Eligibility criteria apply for elections. For questions or further information, contact secretary@tekopuamarae.co.nz

The monthly committee meeting will occur after the AGM. We look forward to your presence. Kakepuku 9B1D1 Trustees Triennial Annual General Meeting: Te Kōpua

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Like horses, variety in your day with many di erent roles, some admin work? Then we need you! Email Warwick Brown President warwicklogan@gmail.com or complete the volunteer form at www.rda.org.nz, highlighting area Te Awamutu

Passed away peacefully at home on 20 May 2026, aged 87. Dearly loved husband of the late Bev, treasured father and father-in-law of Mark and Lisa, Brett and Darinee and Cate and Bob. Much adored grandad of Sam, Lucy, Sophie, Finley, Fyfe, Cerwyn, Anton, Theo, Mahe, Liam, Flynn and Lara. A memorial service will be held at the Parish of St Johns, Arawata Street, Te Awamutu on Saturday 4th July at 1.30 pm.

‘John has taken his final ride in the red ute after a lifetime of hard work, generosity, friendship and family’. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Cancer Society’s Lions Lodge, Hamilton would be appreciated. Messages and tributes for the family at www. hamiltonfuneralhome. co.nz or C/- PO Box 276 Hamilton. Woolertons’ Funeral Home FDANZ

Passed away peacefully at Radius Windsor Court, after a brief illness, on Friday, 26 June 2026, aged 84 years. Dearly loved and devoted husband of Diana for 57 wonderful years. Loving father and father-in-law of Aaron, and Brent & Rachel. Proud and much-loved Poppa of Tyran and EllieJane. The family sincerely thank the dedicated teams at Waikato Hospital, Matariki Continuing Care, and Radius Windsor Court for the exceptional care, kindness, and compassion shown to Rodger during his final weeks. A heartfelt thank you also to the management and staff of CHT Te Awamutu Care Home for the love, friendship, and support they gave Rodger over the years as he faithfully visited Diana each day. Your kindness meant more than words can express. A celebration of Rodger’s life will be held at the Te Awamutu Presbyterian Centre, Mutu Street, Te Awamutu, on Friday, 3 July 2026 at 1.30pm, followed by a private cremation. Messages to the Hadley Family may be sent c/- 262 Ohaupo Road, Te Awamutu 3800, or left in Rodger’s online tribute book at www. rosetown.co.nz.

NAVANUA, Filimone (Bill) – Passed away while visiting his homeland of Fiji on Wednesday, 17th June 2026, in his 84th year. Dearly loved husband of the late Mary. Much loved father and father-in-law of Thomas (Tom), Aaron and Petra, Alana. Cherished Grandad of nine grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. A celebration of Bill's life has been held at the Te Awamutu Methodist Church, followed by a private burial. Messages to the Navanua Family may be sent c/- 262 Ohaupo Road, Te Awamutu 3800, or left in Bill's online tribute book at www.rosetown. co.nz.

Passed away on Sunday, 21 June 2026, aged 79, holding hands with her beloved husband, Geoff. Loved Mum of John, Matt and Kerry, Nat and Kelly. Nana to Roman, Conway, Slade, Jasmine and Cohen.

“Lyn is now with her Lord Jesus in Glory” Thanks to the loving staff at Matariki Hospital who helped her through her last days. A celebration of Lyn’s life has been held. All communications c/- the Boxell family to PO Box 137 Te Awamutu.

CROSS, Tauranga Kevin John (Kevin). – Passed away peacefully at Hilda Ross Home & Hospital on Sunday, 28 June 2026, aged 76 years. Loved son of the late Josephine and Cecil Cross. Loved brother of his two brothers and three sisters. Father of his three children, grandad to his eight grandchildren, and great-grandad to his nine great-grandchildren. A dearly loved member of his wider whānau and a friend to many. A service to celebrate Kevin’s life will be held at the Te Awamutu Presbyterian Centre, Mutu Street, Te Awamutu, on Thursday, 2 July 2026 at 11.00am, followed by a private cremation. Messages to the Cross Family may be sent c/- 262 Ohaupo Road, Te Awamutu 3800, or left in Kevin’s online tribute book at www.rosetown.co.nz.

DROMGOOL, Beverley Irene 7.10.1942 - 19.06.2026 – After a short illness. Loved mum of Irene, Vince, Stephen, Debbie, and the late Tracy. Loved nana to her four grandchildren. Now reunited with Tracy. RIP mum A private cremation and family service has been held at mum’s request. Thank you to the Cardiology and Gynaecology Teams at the Waikato Hospital for your professionalism and care.