Te Awamutu News | June 25, 2026

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Cutting it fine - again

Te Awamutu butchers Cody Burbery and Adrianna Te Aonui have pulled off a double to qualify for the young butcher and apprentice of the year national finals.

The Pak’n Save Te Awamutu duo won both categories at the regional heats in Hamilton.

Te Aonui celebrated top honours in the Pact Packaging Young Butcher category, and Burbery led the field in the Anzco Foods Butcher Apprentice competition. The pair also won the same titles in 2025.

They will represent the Central North Island region at the grand final in Auckland on August 13. Wintec’s Rotokauri Campus hosted the regional heat on Wednesday last week after The News had gone to press.

A total of 14 competitors completed a two-hour showcase of technical skill and creative product development. Competitors were required to break down a beef rump, a pork shoulder, a lamb leg, and two chickens to create a display of retail-ready, value-added products.

Te Aonui thought what set her apart was bringing together baking and butchery skills to create her display of products.

“It’s about using a bit of fusion to upgrade and upsell our butchery products while still letting the meat shine.”

Te Aonui has been qualified for one year and everything she prepared was something “we sell at work”.

“We’re fortunate to have such high-quality meat in New Zealand that we don’t need to do too much to it.

“Looking ahead to the grand final I’ll be focusing on the finishing details and taking on board the judges’ feedback. Refining those final touches will be a key area for me as I prepare for the next stage of the competition.”

Burbery said he was excited at having the opportunity to “go one better than last year”.

“I think my experience in previous competitions has helped set me apart, particularly when it comes to managing the pressure that comes with competing at this level,” he said.

“In the lead-up to the grand final I’ll be focusing on simplifying my display. Sometimes less is more, and I want to make sure I get all the finer details right. Those small details can make a big difference and will hopefully help set me apart from the competition.”

Head Judge Peter Martin, Butchery Training Advisor at Skills4Work in Auckland, said it was clear the future of the trade was in strong hands nationwide.

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Kakepuku back on track

The 7.2km Kakepuku mountain track has reopening following extensive repair and clean-up work.

The track, which attracted almost 33,000 visitors last year, closed as a result of storm damage in February. As repairs neared completion, Cyclone Vaianu in early April

brought further damage.

Contractors have since restored the track to a safe, walkable condition.

Community services manager Brad Ward said while safe, the track can be slippery.

“The public need to remember a good level of fitness is required. While signage

Car crime: what to do

Last Thursday I had the opportunity to meet with the volunteers from the Cambridge Citizens Advice Bureau. I was invited to speak on the topic of family harm, including Police Safety Orders, Protection Orders, stalking, and the support services available to those affected. I appreciated the volunteers’ interest and engagement. We are fortunate in Waipā to have people who give their time so generously to help others. Cambridge CAB is located at 62 Alpha Street and is open weekdays 9am to 4.30pm.

In recent columns, I have discussed ways to target-harden your vehicle against car crime. This week, I would like to give a reminder of what to do if your vehicle is stolen and you later locate and recover it independently of police.

With the widespread use of Automatic Number Plate Recognition technology, detection of any vehicle registration plate flagged as stolen will generate an alert to police.

On a few occasions, staff responding to these alerts have stopped a vehicle only to find the registered owner driving, rather than the car thief we expected. If you find your stolen vehicle before police do, please

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notify us immediately so records can be updated and any unnecessary response avoided.

At the same time we can then also discuss with you the remaining opportunities for forensic examination and carry out relevant CCTV or other enquiries around the recovery location in a timely manner.

One car thief or group of thieves will be responsible for multiple offences so evidence gained from one, will often contribute to solving another.

A related issue is the theft of registration plates. Offenders will often steal plates from one car and attach them to another to avoid identification while committing offences such as petrol drive-offs or shop thefts. Thanks to information provided by a vigilant member of the public, a man was arrested in Cambridge last week for exactly this type of offending.

If your registration plate is stolen, it is advisable to obtain a replacement set with a new registration as soon as possible. As long as the original plate remains flagged stolen, your legitimate vehicle may otherwise generate unnecessary and misleading alerts as it travels around town.

manager Brad

warns of an active landslip risk, this is a precautionary measure due to the maunga’s geology. Visitors need to take care, and know the area is regularly monitored and managed as part of ongoing safety planning.

Kakepuku Mountain Conservation Society member Emily Empson said Kakepuku was a place of natural and cultural significance and a space that supported the health and wellbeing of the wider community.

The $14,500 repair project included restoring eroded sections of track, relaying clay-based surfaces, clearing blocked culverts, and removing rocks, fallen trees, and built-up silt.

Drainage improvements were also carried out, slips stabilised and gutters cleared.

Paying by the litre

The Board of Iawai, a councilowned waters company serving Hamilton city and Waikato district will install water meters over the next four years. Chief executive Peter Winder said the costs for households “if we don’t start metering” would be far greater than the costs to introduce them. Meanwhile, the Waikato Regional Council has approved a plan “to improve drought management and water reliability across the region”.

Crash investigated

Police investigation a fatal crash on Te Pahu Road, south of Whatawhata late last year want to speak with motorists who were on that section of road prior to the incident. The single-vehicle crash happened about 5:10pm on October 31 and resulted in the death of the sole occupant, Detective Deb Ngatai says.

More fish

Regulation changes in the Taupō fishery will be in place for the start of the new fishing season, which begins on July 1. A key change will be the bag limit – up from six to eight trout. Conservation Department Taupō Operations Manager Dave Conley says Taupō spawning streams are considered hyper-productive.

Funds raised

Altrusa Te Awamutu recently held their Friends, Frocks and Frivolity event at the Waipā Women’s Hub to raise funds for Operation Christmas Hamper. Pre-loved, high end quality clothing, shoes and accessories were donated preevent and sold on the night. Extra clothing was donated to opportunity shops in Te Awamutu – more funds going into the wider community.

On the park

Former Ōhaupō Rugby

Sports Club fullback Hateni Tafolo made his début for North Otago last week in the 46-14 Ranfurly Shield challenge loss against Otago.

The former Tonga Under-20 and South Canterbury Sevens representative came on in the 57th minute under the roof at Forsyth Barr Stadium, Dunedin.

East-west option emerges

By Mary Anne Gill

A catchment-based model for local government reform has emerged as a contender in the Waikato, and early public feedback suggests growing interest in splitting the region along river lines.

Discussions at recent gatherings and community events show the debate is still fluid, despite an initial preference among councils for a single Waikato-wide authority.

Speaking to Cambridge Chamber members last week, Waipā mayor Mike Pettit said councils had to move quickly under tight Government timeframes. Proposals are due by August 9 and final decisions are expected before the November 7 general election.

“The government wants to change the whole makeup of the country inside 12 weeks,” he said.

A single Waikato “super council”, remains the preferred model among most councils. Pettit said it offered scale, consistency and simplicity.

He said a unified model would

create “a one stop shop to work with” for iwi and businesses, with “one set of consents, one way of doing business”.

To date in the greater Waikato Ōtorohanga and Waitomo councils have agreed to look at amalgamation.

While a unified model was also the favourite among those spoken to at the Cambridge Farmers’ market on Saturday, some, mostly younger people, appeared drawn to another of the five options suggested, which splits the region into two unitary authorities based on river catchments.

That option - “option D” was introduced later in the process.

“Option D almost came from sitting with my boy on the couch,”

Pettit said, explaining how the idea was sparked by thinking about river systems and control from source to sea.

The model would align governance with major waterways such as the Waikato and Waihou rivers, reflecting natural

environmental boundaries rather than district lines.

It also reflects a natural split between the Pacific coast to the east and the Tasman coast to the west, grouping communities with similar coastal and catchment interests.

Pettit said catchment thinking already played an important role in regional council functions.

“All of Waikato takes the biggest catchments, the Waihou, and the Waipā rivers and the Waikato River. Catchment-based is actually quite important,” he said.

The emergence of Option D comes as councils grapple with balancing efficiency against local representation. Pettit acknowledged no proposal was perfect.

“There’s disadvantages in all of them, there’s advantages in all of them,” he said.

He also signalled significant changes ahead, suggesting the number of elected members across the Waikato – sitting at around 200 –may be cut to 40 to 50.

Behind the scenes, chief

executives and mayors are working through issues such as funding, infrastructure and subsidies between districts. Pettit noted that larger urban areas support smaller councils through regional rates and that could influence final decisions.

Public consultation is now underway, and councils are expected to refine their proposals as more information becomes available.

“We really are literally building a plan as required,” said Pettit. Interest in the catchment-based approach is particularly relevant for the eastern Waikato, where ThamesCoromandel, Hauraki, MatamataPiako and part of South Waikato sit along the Waihou–Piako system and the Pacific coast, distinct from districts facing the Tasman Sea to the west.

The model would align those eastern areas within a shared riverbased authority if favoured.

Submissions to Waipā council close later this month and the council will have its proposal submitted to government by August 9.

Waipā Home of Champions: Championing our future!

The options

Option A

A ‘One Waikato’ approach combining all 11 Waikato councils into one to deliver all regional and district council functions.

Option C

Partnering with our Waikato Waters shareholding councils, plus Taupō. This would see Matamata-Piako, Hauraki, Ōtorohanga, Waitomo, South Waikato, Taupō and Waipā form one council.

Option E

Do nothing. Council does not put forward a proposal and continues in its current form for now. Change would still follow through the government’s compulsory backstop process after the 2028 elections.

Tell us your thoughts at your local market

Cambridge Farmers Market

Saturday June 20, 8am to 12pm

Waipā is one of New Zealand’s fastest-growing districts.

We’re proud of our strong communities and reputation as the Home of Champions. But like all councils across New Zealand, we’re facing increasing challenges – from funding infrastructure and supporting growth to keeping rates affordable while planning for the future.

The Government has signalled major changes to local government and has invited councils to help shape what comes next through a process called ‘Head Start’.

For Waipā, the question isn’t whether change is coming. It’s how we make sure any change delivers the best outcomes for our communities.

That’s why we’re seeking your feedback before making any decisions about our future direction.

Option B

A unitary authority based on the existing Future Proof growth council boundaries. This would see Hamilton City, Waikato District, MatamataPiako District and Waipā combine to deliver all regional and district council functions.

Option D

Rosetown Monthly Fair, Te Awamutu

Saturday June 27, 10am to 2pm

Pirongia Monthly Market

Sunday June 28, 9am to 1pm

Championing two unitary authorities based on river catchments:

1. A Waikato/Waipā catchment unitary authority, potentially including Taupō, South Waikato, Ōtorohanga, Waitomo, Waipā, Hamilton City and Waikato Districts.

2. A Waihou–Piako catchment unitary authority covering the eastern part of the Waikato region, potentially including Matamata-Piako, Hauraki and Thames-Coromandel districts, along with parts of South Waikato District.

What do you think?

We want to hear what’s most important to you. Your feedback will inform our thinking. Feedback closes on Sunday, June 28. Visit www.letstalk.waipadc.govt.nz/ championing-our-future or call into your nearest Council office for more information.

Pause change, say Feds

Federated Farmers wants Waikato Regional Council’s Plan Change 1 shelved until major policy reforms are sorted.

The Environment Court has given the council until July 21 to make 20 changes before the plan will be finalised.

But Federated Farmers says it is concerned at the length of time taken by the court to make a final decision on “the most significant rule change ever seen by farmers in the Waikato and Waipā catchments”.

“These rules took so long to work their way through the court system that by the time they landed they were already out of date

and out of step with central government,” Feds president Chris Woolerton said.

“This process has taken more than 14 years, and in that time we’ve seen significant changes in farmers’ environmental practices.

Farmers have moved quicker than the RMA process has.”

He said proposed restrictions and compliance requirements being placed on Waikato farmers would “totally change the nature of farming in the region”.

“Plan Change 1 will add cost, complexity and duplication, with thousands of farmers needing both a resource consent and a goldplated farm plan just to keep

farming.”

Woolerton, a Taupiri dairy farmer, wants to see the plan change paused until there’s clarity on resource management, local government and farm plan reforms.

“These new farming rules are completely at odds with the Government’s direction of travel and vision for the country,” he said.

“On one hand we have a Government saying it wants to cut the cost and complexity from farming by overhauling local government and the RMA. But on the other hand we’ve got a binding court decision pushing in the opposite direction, bringing

$200m plant planned

A Raynes Road, Rukuhia site has been tagged as the preferred location for a wastewater treatment plant.

The announcement was made last week following a board meeting of the Iawai – Flowing Water Board, the water organisation owned by Hamilton City Council and Waikato District Councils.

Under the plan the $200 million Southern Wastewater Treatment Plant will be built at 131 and 139 Raynes Road. The project will be submitted for fast-track referral.

The board also confirmed the Waikato River as the preferred “re-entry environment” for treated water from the plant.

Iawai Chief Executive Peter Winder called the decisions a significant milestone.

The new plant represented a “best for river” approach to wastewater management and gave effect to Te Ture Whaimana o Te Awa o Waikato, a vision, to restore and protect the health and wellbeing of the Waikato River, he said.

“The new plant will contribute to this by using leading treatment technology to clean wastewater to a much higher standard than we have today.”

He said the new wastewater treatment standards are consistent with the performance now in place at the upgraded Cambridge plant.

The project supports a new, boundaryless approach to

managing wastewater across Hamilton, Waikato, and Waipā.

A reason to borrow

in very prescriptive farming rules with huge compliance requirements.

“Why roll out new farming rules that are about to be replaced? When the RMA goes, PC1 will go with it.”

Plan Change 1 will impact on more than 4500 farms across the Waikato and Waipā River catchments.

King Country sheep and beef farmer Reon Verry, who serves as Waikato Federated Farmers meat and wool chair, is also concerned about what the plan change might mean for farmers.

“The environment is something I really care about, but these rules will simply see a whole lot of money wasted

Briefs…

Church celebrates

on compliance costs rather than on-farm action,” he said.

“With all the Government’s reforms currently underway,

The St Peter’s Catholic brick church in Cambridge will mark 100 years on Sunday. The parish itself has an even longer history, having been established in 1862. Sunday is the Feast of Saints Peter and Paul, the parish’s patronal feast day when the community will gather to celebrate the church’s centenary. The occasion provides an opportunity for parishioners past and present to give thanks, reflect on a century of faith and service, and look ahead to the future of the parish, which includes an ongoing fundraising campaign to raise $4 million to build a new church. The currrent one has been assessed an earthquake risk.

it makes total

press pause on implementing these new rules until everyone has more clarity.

Depot stays

A Cambridge works depot residents want closed because of concerns about heavy truck movements will remain open. Waipā District Council’s Service Delivery Committee considered a petition from Arnold Street residents but heeded advice from their transportation team that closing it now would result in a cost of around $80,000 a year to store materials elsewhere. Councillors resolved to look for a better long-term option as part of the 2027-37 Long Term Plan process.

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The 7.2km Kakepuku mountain track has reopening following extensive repair and clean-up work.

The track, which attracted almost 33,000 visitors last year, closed as a result of storm damage in February. As repairs neared completion, Cyclone Vaianu in early April brought further damage.

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Contractors have since restored the track to a safe, walkable condition.

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Community services manager Brad Ward said while safe, the track can be slippery.

“The public need to remember a good level of fitness is required. While signage warns of an active landslip risk, this is a precautionary measure due to the maunga’s geology. Visitors need to take care, and know the area is regularly monitored and managed as part of ongoing safety planning.

Kakepuku Mountain Conservation Society member Emily Empson said Kakepuku was a place of natural and cultural significance and a space that supported the health and wellbeing of the wider community.

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The $14,500 repair project included restoring eroded sections of track, relaying clay-based surfaces, clearing blocked culverts, and removing rocks, fallen trees, and built-up silt.

Drainage improvements were also carried out, slips stabilised and gutters cleared.

Abortion care and support

Good night, Baltimore

Te Awamutu College’s production of Hairspray has finished its run in a sea of sequins and song.

Drama teacher and show director Morag Carter said messages left following every performance during the season which finished at the weekend included congratulations to performers, the band and costumes, lighting and sound,

“The students have done a fantastic job, working together over the last 15 weeks to pull together an outstanding show,” she said.

“Being a young cast - only nine year 12 and 13 students were in the cast - there have been some steep learning curves, but they’ve risen to the challenge and surpassed everyone’s expectations.”

The show, set in Baltimore, US, in 1962 follows Tracey Turnblad who uses

newfound celebrity status to champion diversity and inclusion.

Three of the most challenging roles were taken on by Zoey Blake, Denzel Stevens, and Stella Wills (Motormouth Maybelle).

Zoey (Year 9) and took on central role of Tracey.

“I decided to audition for Tracy in Hairspray because I’d seen the movie I was inspired by her message of equality and self-love.”

Stella (Year 12) had never done a show before.

“I really liked musical theatre already, so when Miss Carter approached me to audition, I decided to give it a go. Since then it’s been a really fun production, and as someone who’s been profiled in the past, the themes of racism really spoke to me. It’s been empowering to play someone who was able

to overcome those struggles” Denzel (Year 12) is a familiar face in Te Awamutu productions and took on the challenge of playing Edna; the mother figure usually played by a man since it was originated by Harvey Fierstein in 2002 and reimagined on film by John

Travolta in 2007.

“Everybody has embraced me playing Edna and often comment that I can walk in heels better than they can. But they are also very aware that the character I’m playing is not a reflection of who I am as a person,” he said. By the numbers – there

were more than 200 hours of rehearsal by 31 student performers, eight student musicians were supported by seven adult musicians, 23 student technicians were supported by four adult professionals under the guidance of three teachers - and there were five shows over four days to an audience totalling almost 11,000.

Morag Carter said she appreciated the support from Te Awamutu - “we look forward to watching these talented students develop their talents over the coming years”.

Here come the bands

By Viv Posselt

One of the country’s biggest concert band festivals comes to Waipā this weekend.

Some 1000 musicians – 28 bands, 40 soloists and 37 small ensembles from Whangārei to Wellington – will perform at St Peter’s Cambridge in this year’s national concert band festival. The weekend event, held annually by the New Zealand Concert Band Association (NZCBA) in different centres around the country, brings together musicians of all ages and backgrounds.

Festival organiser, NZCBA president James Bevin, said they have never had as many registrations. “We even had to turn down a few late entries because

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we couldn’t fit them into the time available.”

There are also workshops and trade displays throughout the weekend.

Among those taking part is the Waikato Schools Symphonic Band, made up of around 45 primary, intermediate and secondary school students, most from Hamilton. Musical director Oliver Barratt is a former Cambridge High School student, while his co-conductor Caleb Botting, is from Te Awamutu.

Another Hamilton-based band is the Waikato Symphonic Band, with Kim Ranson as musical director. Several of its members are from Te Awamutu.

Simon Brew – saxophonist and manager of Cambridge Town Hall –

will be conducting the band he formed in 2022, the All-Comers Band. While the festival music has a distinctly classical feel, no-one is expected to be a maestro, he said. Fun and fellowship are what this event is all about.

St Peter’s director of performing arts Mary Lin said the school’s concert band will take part.

“We usually enter as a beginner band… this will be our first year doing something as a formal band,” she said. “We are super excited to be hosting the festival.”

Open to the public, festival performances run throughout and there will be a gala evening on Saturday and prizegiving on Sunday.

Return of the radio hams

By Jesse Wood Waipā Ham Radio

enthusiast Don Short is hoping to bring the younger generation up to frequency on an important part of Civil Defence and communications across the world.

“My father was involved with CB radios when I was younger and that gave me some interest,” Karāpirobased Short said.

“I got my ham licence 30 years ago, used it for bit, had kids and then just more recently I got back into it. My father sparked it off again. But boy has it changed.”

Ham Radio, or amateur radio, is about experimenting and communicating using not only radio, but also a range of technologies. It can be used with no power, in places with no internet or cell phone service.

A nationwide Ham Radio event – Potaholics Midwinter 30 – will take place on Sunday.

Pota is an abbreviation for Parks On The Air. Kiwi enthusiasts set up in parks with mobile equipment and make contacts with other people up and down the country.

“You can put up an aerial temporarily, running on

batteries and talk to people all over New Zealand on something smaller than the size of my hand. It’s very low powered,” Short said.

“I have a 20-metre piece of wire, I put that up a sixmetre pole, slide it down to the ground and connect that to the radio. Then I plug a phone power bank into my little transmitter.

“That’s how portable it is now – before you’d be lugging a car battery around.”

The goal is to bank 30 voice contacts between 9am and 9pm. The call sign and time must be logged for each contact before being uploaded to an online application.

Short and other Waipā enthusiasts will set up at the Karāpiro Lookout.

“It will be out in the public and offer an opportunity for anyone interested in the radio hobby to have a look and ask some questions,” Short said.

“In the old days you had to attend night classes, learn morse code before you could start using a radio.

“The morse code requirement has long since been removed and clubs run exam cram weekends to help people get their licences.

“Back in the day,

Cambridge had a Ham Radio club that operated out of the bottom of the Band Rotunda in Leamington.”

Short said Ham Radio has really changed over the past three decades; there aren’t many clubs around but individually there’s a resurgence.

“Another new thing I discovered is, some guys send balloons up several thousand metres. They can

Sarah’s builds on success

By Jesse Wood

Former Ngāhinapōuri School and St Peter’s School Cambridge student Sarah Priestley (nee Moore), 28, has been crowned Bikini Italy Pro Champion 2026 in Rimini.

The event was part of the recent Rimini Wellness show.

Priestley, nee Moore, grew up in Whatawhata and is now based in Brisbane where she runs two businesses from home.

“I often joke that I’ve gone from gumboots to heels,” Priestley said. “While I now call Brisbane home, New Zealand will always be a huge part of who I am and it’s something I’m proud to represent whenever I compete internationally.”

Priestley started bodybuilding training six years ago and competed for the first time in 2022. She competed in three shows in her first competitive season and earned professional status in the United States.

In Italy, at her seventh competition, Priestley placed second in the Bikini Athletic category as well as taking the Pro Bikini title.

“You can work incredibly hard for years before seeing the result you’re chasing, so to travel halfway across the world and win a professional champion title in Italy was incredibly special,” Priestley said.

“What made it even more meaningful was that it came after 18 months of intentionally focusing on improvement.

“In 2024, I placed second on the professional stage in Dubai and rather than

rushing back into competition, my coach and I spent the next year and a half building muscle and addressing the feedback from the judges.

She said it was challenging to balance the demands of preparation with running two businesses.

“As you get leaner, energy levels drop and recovery becomes more important, so maintaining a high level of performance in both business and sport requires a lot of discipline and planning.”

“The atmosphere inside the Rimini Wellness Expo was unlike anything I’ve experienced before and being able to represent New Zealand on an international stage made it even more special.”

She hopes to inspire others to back themselves, stay patient and pursue something that feels a scary or ambitious.

“One of the things I love most about bodybuilding is that it shows what’s possible when ordinary people commit to an extraordinary goal,” Priestley said.

“I’m not a full-time athlete. I have built this career around everyday life, which is why I love sharing the journey online.

“This win wasn’t built in a day. It was built through years of consistency, learning from setbacks, applying feedback and continuing to show up when nobody was watching.

“I hope that’s something people can relate to, regardless of whether they’re interested in bodybuilding or not.”

circumnavigate the world, multiple times, and send a signal down,” Short said.

“You can track where in the world the balloons are. You’d never have been able to do that in the past.

“My hope is, to be able to go to a school, and launch a balloon with the children seeing it.

“Then I can give them the details about how to log in and track it, so they can see how it works.”

Short recalls having to spend thousands of dollars to get into the radio side of the hobby. With Chinese-made radios, the entry cost has diminished considerably.

“It’s a great opportunity for kids if they’re exposed to this technology. People can come along to the POTA event and see how it works,” he said.

“You turn up there with your gear on a planned time and particular day and tell other enthusiasts what the frequency is.”

Short learnt morse code 30 years ago is relearning it again via the internet.

“I can reach people around the world with a lot less power,” Short said.

“I have my morse code key and I plug it into my computer, go to a chat room,

somebody responds and we’re sending morse code across the internet.

“We’re not actually using radio waves, but we’re using it to learn morse code. That’s how the whole digital aspect has come into it.

“If there’s a disaster, it’s the people with Ham Radio that can go out, set up temporary stations and provide that comms service.

“There’s still definitely a place and a space for it in the world today.”

Another aspect Short thinks is important is keeping people connected, especially those that may be housebound.

“Ham is great for older people that don’t have mobility. They don’t get out but still love the radio,” Short said.

“This creates a really neat connection for some of them. They can listen during the day and have a yack to somebody.”

Potaholics event organiser Grant Gilbert echoes Short’s sentiments. It’s great for all ages and stages.

“If anyone is interested in getting their licence and making heaps of new mates with awesome activities, this would be a great time to come along and check it out.”

ON SHAKY GROUND

Kick ’em Jenny

By Janine Krippner

If you ask a volcanologist what their favourite volcano name is, Kick ‚em Jenny is often a contender.

This brilliantly named volcano is a submarine volcano about 8 km north of Grenada in the Caribbean Sea. It is also one of the most frequently active volcanoes in the eastern Caribbean and is monitored by the University of the West Indies Seismic Research Centre (UWI).

Kick ‚em Jenny first made the world aware of its presence in 1939, when earthquakes were felt in Grenada and produced higher waves along the coastlines. It eventually reached sea level, producing an explosive eruption with ash and steam plumes.

The life cycle of this volcano involves growing towards the surface, then being worn back down. Currently, the summit is around 200 metre below the surface of the sea.

It is a beautiful example of the early stages of how other eastern Caribbean islands formed.

The volcano is a site of geothermal activity, where fluids and gases are vented at temperatures that can reach around 150°C. In 1989, a submersible was sent down to check it out, and an updraft over the crater pushed the craft towards the surface. That would have been an experience for the pilot onboard!

There is a 1.5 km exclusion zone around the 300 metre wide crater in place for marine vessels. It is located within a main shipping route, as well as a popular area for recreational sea-goers. It doesn’t take too much imagination to grasp why you don’t want to be on a boat directly above an active volcano.

Eruptions can occur with little to no perceptible warning.

A fascinating and rather scary process can occur when a large amount of gas is released into the water above.

It reduces the density of the water, and water density is important for the buoyancy of marine vessels. If a boat enters the wrong area at the wrong time, it can lose that critical buoyancy and sink.

This likely occurred in August 1944, when the Island Queen disappeared with more than 60 souls onboard. No debris was found. T

his would have been a spooky and devastating event, and we can see how myths like the Bermuda Triangle take hold.

One misconception that has spread because of understandable fear is the threat of large tsunamis. While volcano-induced tsunamis are definitely a major concern, the hazard at Kick ‚em Jenny has been studied, and the conclusion is that it is not a large threat at this time. Not all eruptions produce tsunamis, and the tsunamis it does produce can be quite small.

This is another example of how we must study each individual volcano to understand the dangers to communities. It’s also important to keep studying the volcano, as the situation may change as activity progresses.

If you want to learn more, all this information is from the UWI website. You can also learn about the other volcanoes of the eastern Caribbean, including explosive eruptions that have had devastating impacts on the islands.

AGE OF REASON

A matter of mergers

By Peter Carr

In the late 1980’s the (then) Labour government instructed the Local Government Commission to review the make-up of no less than 850 scattered territorial and single-purpose elected board (remember Rabbit Boards?).

The chair of the commission (Brian Elwood - a previous mayor of Palmerston North) led the charge and by November 1989 put in place just 10 per cent of those numbers being one unitary authority (Gisborne), 13 regional councils and 72 city and district councils. And everyone got on with their lives.

The current government (interestingly not Labour) is at it again and not only wants to do away with a ponderous group of regional councillors but demands that the city/ district councils move into amalgamations with each other.

Note they are not telling them how to do it but giving them the opportunity to come up with reasonable and sensible geographical socio/economic groupings which will become unitary authorities.

To give Waipā District Council their due they have gone out and offered their residents to declare their views on five options – one of which is to do nothing. So, Mayor Mike, chief executive Steph and your teams take a bow. Democracy at work in its most visible sense.

I am not going to debate my views on what should emerge – I will leave that for the WDC survey that they have offered me. But I suggest that if Waipa becomes one of a number – somewhere between five and 12 current groups - how should the new body operate?

Will the chair of the new group be one of

The power of community

By Karla Rose, Zion Church

Recently I have been reading my way through Pete Greig’s book ‘God on Mute’. It’s a book that digs into the thoughts, feelings and pain that we experience when we pray and are met with silence. While I can’t even pretend that I have an answer for God’s silence, Pete provides some solid thoughts on why, at times, we feel that God is silent and why God might leave prayers unanswered.

In this day and age where making ends meet is beyond difficult and finding joy is harder still, prayer is all many of us have left; even the occasional atheist has been known to ask God for an answer or two. So feeling as though your prayers remain unheard, unacknowledged and unanswered can be particularly painful.

In these situations, where prayers remain unanswered and hope is absent, Pete says that “sometimes the only place we can find the hope of glory is in one another. Not in prayer, not in the Bible, not in worship, but in community.”

He goes on to say that “God speaks to us through people.”

I think he’s probably right. While prayer, the Bible, and worship undoubtedly hold true value, and are essential to Christian life, sometimes we need the words of people who have what we don’t or have travelled the path we are only now stepping on to.

When we can’t find the hope or answers to prayer for ourselves, our community is where we can receive God’s wisdom,

knowledge, joy, and truth.

I was reminded in conversation recently of the loneliness that permeates society. There are, of course, people who refuse to engage with the world, but there are also people, and sometimes we can be included in their number, that are lonely, adrift in our communities, and all it would take is for us to open our mouths to set the world to rights for them.

It doesn’t even take much, an acknowledgement of someone else’s gifts and talents, a smile, a listening ear, an invitation to church.

We might be exactly the community that supports someone through the most difficult day of their life and be none the wiser that you had impacted them at all.

The people around us, whether neighbour, stranger, family, or friend, impact how we not only see the world, but how we see God. They have impact, and so do you.

We can be people who, on our best days, point others back to God, and, on our worst days, plant ourselves within a community who will point out the way for us.

The power in community, especially Christian community, is that we don’t even have to say God’s name for Him to be a part of the conversation.

If we are there, He is there. In the little things and the big things, all we need to do is open our eyes, hearts, arms and minds, and share some hope with the people around us.

the existing mayors (post2028)?

Should there be an independent appointed non-political chair who is not elected - with the mayors as the Board?

Will there be a drive to reduce staff numbers – or rather reduce an overproliferation of people with similar roles? All that conjecture is for consideration further down the track.

But at least we have a number of options to consider – and not every council will be as open as Waipā due to a very tight deadline set by the government for consideration in its currently elected dying days.

As an opinion though I would postulate that creating and governing a unitary authority in a tight urban district like Auckland is a very different beast to one which will mix a tight city environment (aka Hamilton) with a disparate group of rural bodies.

There is enough hot air and anti-mayor rough edges apparent in Auckland City right now. How will it look in a revised Waikato be it still the whole or perhaps in (at least) two major groupings?

And what of the honest citizens who stood, only last year, to be elected to the governance seats in regional councils? They are not guilty of anything sinful other than their honesty and public responsibilities. They will be out of their seats and cast back among the common herd that is the populace.

We are in for an interesting ride so filling in the Waipā District Council survey sensibly is the very least we can all do.

Meghan Hawkes reports on a time when Kihikihi was a town of “wheelmen” – in 1898.

News Transport craze arrives

A ‘bike craze’ had spread to Kihikihi, and three or four of the popular machines were in use there.

Two of the local ‘wheelmen’ were ladies and were observed making capital progress. Nothing could surpass football, however, and there was great jubilation over the victory of the Kihikihi footballers in a match against Te Awamutu.

A dinner given by the Kihikihi club to the Te Awamutu team was largely attended, the Alpha Hotel dining room being taxed to its utmost. After speeches and toasts a good musical programme was gone through. A very jolly evening concluded at about 10pm when the Te Awamutu boys left for home in Floyd’s brake with a sendoff of three lusty cheers.

At Pirongia blackbirds, thrushes and goldfinches were proving to be a great nuisance.

To grow soft fruits

was an impossibility; the strawberries were devoured as soon as seen, the gooseberries were cleared and not a cherry was left on the tree after the green stage of growth had passed. How to stop the robbery nobody there had any idea. One resident’s garden was like a rag fair, with old clothes and lines strung about but this had no effect. All hopes of strawberries and cream at Christmas faded away.

At a Te Awamutu library committee meeting it was reported that a scrapbook had been started to collect clippings of local reference from any of the newspapers. A supply of coal had been ordered for the reading room. It was agreed to purchase a large up-to-date wall map of the world to hang in the reading room. \ New books, obtained from Auckland, had been placed on the shelves. Works of standard authors unobtainable in Auckland had been ordered from

England. A number of books received from Mr McBride had been satisfactorily disposed of and several other new books added to the shelves. The chairman, who had promised to take steps towards reviving ‘penny readings’ had run out of time, but he had arranged for Rev Mitchell of Hamilton to give a lecture. A resident had very generously offered to pay the travelling expenses to and from Auckland for a speaker if the latter could be induced to visit Te Awamutu and give a talk. Some discussion took place about rates due on the library reserve. It was decided to take no notice of the demands or take any action in the matter. Permission was granted to the librarian to carry on business as newsagent during library hours, as long as it did not interfere with her other duties.

Thursday, June 25, 2026

the newsroom to the council

After nearly 40 years telling the stories of Te Awamutu as a reporter and photographer, Councillor Dean Taylor is now helping shape the next chapter of the town he has always called home

While he once thought he would leave Te Awamutu for good, life had other plans After training as a teacher and struggling to find work, he found his way into journalism with the Te Awamutu Courier - beginning a career that deeply connected him with the district

“After being a community journalist and editor, I’ve had the chance to hear countless local stories, meet a wide range of people and see the community grow and change,” Dean says

That long connection to Waipā, combined with a passion for local projects, eventually led him into local government He first entered local body politics in 2001 after wanting to help community group ideas gain momentum

“I figured it would be better to work from inside the system rather than from the outside,” Dean says

After serving on the Community Board, including as chair from 2004 to 2013, he stepped away from politics for a time - but always suspected he might return

“I felt I still had knowledge and experience to offer as a long-time resident ”

Since rejoining Council and the Te Awamutu and Kihikihi Community Board last October, Dean says one of the biggest lessons has been how much more complex local government has become

Council is a much bigger and more complicated business

than when I was last involved,” he says But the process of being an effective local representative hasn’t changed ”

He also values the collaborative culture around the council table

I enjoy being part of the team of councillors under Mayor Mike Pettit It ’s a very different way of working from the business world I came from, but I believe we all get the opportunity to be individuals while still being part of a good team ”

One project especially close to Dean’s heart is the proposed Te Ara Wai Museum Having been involved with Te Awamutu Museum Trust since 1989, he believes Waipā has stories of national significance worth sharing

Dean is also passionate about protecting Waipā’s character as the district grows

“Growth should happen on our terms and shouldn’t diminish the quality of life of the people who already call Waipā home ”

Outside of council, Dean and his wife Robyn enjoy spending time with friends and family, exploring the Coromandel and attending live music gigs

Dean still keeps one foot in journalism through contract work for a car and boating magazine company and enjoys life as a self-confessed “petrol head” through Te Awamutu Rod and Custom Club

For someone who has spent decades documenting Waipā’s stories, helping shape its future feels like a natural next step

We want to hear what’s most important to you! We are considering how we could join with other councils as we navigate the Government's Head Start process Have a chat with us at one of two community pop up events this weekend

Rosetown Monthly Fair, Te Awamutu Saturday, June 27, 10am - 2pm Pirongia Monthly Market Sunday, June 28, 9am - 1pm

Share your feedback: letstalk waipadc govt nz/ championing-our-future

Deep dive into biology and nature

Tamariki aged five to 12 can choose between two free programmes at our libraries these school holidays, which start on Monday July 6 Te Awamutu Library will host Wildcraft Holidays, with nature-inspired stories and crafts, while Cambridge Library will run Bodily Functions, a look at the amazing things our bodies can do Hour-long sessions run weekdays from 10 30am

Learn kaitiakitanga (guardianship)

Te Whare Taonga o Te Awamutu Museum’s new Kaitiaki Passport experience will help tamariki aged five to 12 learn what it means to care for taonga The hands-on programme explores how museums help protect and share taonga for future generations One-hour sessions will run from 9am on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays during the holidays, with spaces limited to 12 children per session Children must be accompanied by an adult Register at: events.humanitix.com/kaitiakipassport-adventure

Celebrate Matariki

The museum is also marking Matariki, the Māori New Year, with a special display celebrating reflection, renewal, and connection until Friday, July 31

KNOW YOUR PROPERTY MANAGER

Should You Use a Property Manager? A Side-by-Side Look for Investors

There are clear advantages to engaging a property manager to look after your investment. For many landlords, the question is whether the management fee is worth it. The comparison below outlines what it looks like to go it alone versus having a professional on board.

Time and Workload

Managing a rental property yourself may seem like a way to save money, but every decision carries a cost. When you try to manage alone, you end up handling everything: advertising the property, running viewings, screening tenants, conducting inspections, organising maintenance, ensuring Healthy Homes compliance, managing rent arrears, and keeping up with paperwork. You can also expect any number of unexpected calls on your time - leaks, damage, lockouts, disputes, and the general administrative issues that come with

being a landlord.

A property manager takes over the day to day operations and interactions with tenants. You will receive updates, reports, and still have the decisions to make - just not the workload. This is ideal for landlords who are busy, live out of town, travel frequently, or simply prefer a more passive investment.

Legal Knowledge and Compliance

Selfmanaging landlords need a working knowledge of the Residential Tenancies Act, the Healthy Homes Standards, and the rules around bonds, notice periods, and Tenancy Tribunal processes. Mistakes can be costly, and even unintentional noncompliance can result in fines or penalties.

Property managers understand the legislation and know how to keep you compliant. Thay stay abreast of any changes and arrange and manage documentation, assessments,

and deadlines and, if needed, will represent you at the Tenancy Tribunal.

Tenant Selection and Management

If you manage the property yourself, you will need to run viewings, check references, and rely on your own judgement when selecting tenants. Without experience, it is easy to miss red flags. You will also be the one having difficult conversations about rent arrears, damage, or behaviour issues which are all situations that can be stressful and emotionally draining. Property managers have established processes for screening tenants, including credit checks and reference verification. Their experience helps them identify potential risks early on in the vetting process. They are also capable of maintaining a professional distance when difficult conversations with tenants are required, acting as a buffer between you and them. You still make the final decisions, but without the emotional weight.

Maintenance and Repairs

Selfmanaging means organising all repairs and maintenance yourself and ensuring the work meets tenancy and Healthy Homes requirements. Property managers, on the other hand, have reliable networks of tradespeople and can coordinate repairs quickly. Because they provide consistent work to contractors, they often secure better pricing. They also maintain the necessary compliance records on your behalf.

The Bottom Line

You may avoid management fees by doing everything yourself, but your time has value, and you assume all the risk and stress. Using property professionals lowers the chance of noncompliance, improves tenant retention, and frees you from the day to day demands of being a landlord.

‘Moorbs’ – just like a hurricane

By Jesse Wood

Following his record-breaking evening on Saturday, Te Awamutu Sports’ Josh Moorby has been selected in Dave Rennie’s first All Blacks squad.

The 27-year-old Hurricanes winger broke the record for most tries scored in a Super Rugby season (17), as did fellow winger Fehi Fineanganofo in the 60-5 Super Rugby Pacific final victory against the Chiefs in Wellington.

The pair of All Blacks new caps have been electric all season and Rennie said the squad was already finalised before the grand finale.

Sports’ Taha Kemara has also been selected for the Māori All Blacks team to head to Japan this week.

Moorby’s older brother Cameron said it’s a dream come true.

“It’s very proud day for our family, for Te Awamutu and for everyone that’s been a part of Josh’s journey,” Cameron said.

Te Awamutu Sports director of rugby Sam Gibbens said Moorby is another proud product of Te Awamutu rugby.

“His selection is something the whole community can celebrate,” Gibbens said.

“It’s awesome for our young players to see someone who started their rugby journey here go on to achieve the ultimate honour in New Zealand rugby.

Fellow Waipā Hurricane Cam Roigard

has also kept his spot in the All Blacks team under the new management.

Hautapu-connected Luke Jacobson, Simon Parker and Leroy Carter have also been retained.

Among the omissions are St Peter’s alumni Ollie Norris and Samipeni Finau. Norris is in the Māori All Blacks side.

Moorby grew up on a Te Awamutu dairy farm with his parents John and Anne and attended Hamilton Boys’ High School. He didn’t make the A or B teams at Under 14 and 15 levels and was a third XV player in Year 12. In 2016 he was called into a first XV tour squad to the United Kingdom to cover for injury.

His first professional contract came in 2019 with Southland following time with the New Zealand Sevens and in 2021 was an injury cover for the Highlanders but never took the field.

The Hurricanes came calling the following season and there he has found a home away from home, playing 54 times and scoring 38 tries.

He also represented Northland before moving home to the Waikato, around a season at Montpellier.

The three-time Māori All Blacks player is no stranger to the black jersey and has bided his time.

“For the boys selected in the All Blacks, it caps off an amazing couple of days,

particularly for the new boys but also for all of them,” Hurricanes head coach Clark Laidlaw said.

“Moorbs went to France and probably thought he was done in New Zealand, but to come back and score 17 tries and show consistency at both wing and fullback is a

huge achievement.

“Fehi has gone through a different journey. He went through some tough times with a bad injury but came to sevens, went to an Olympic Games, and then joined us last season. He’s scored 17 tries alongside Moorbs, and his selection is well-deserved.”

Sports beaten in Waipā clash

By Jesse Wood

Hautapu came out on top in the Waikato Club Rugby premier battle of the Waipā against Te Awamutu Sports on Saturday.

The home side won the premier

A Breweries Shield clash, 31-8, at Cambridge Memorial Park.

Speedster Waisake Salabiau scored three tries for Hautapu, while number eight David Morris and fullback Nathan Stephens also scored. Pivot Patrick Hedley

converted three of his team’s tries.

Left winger Jonan Heke-Heays was the sole try scorer for Te Awamutu. Midfielder Austin Anderson, on his return from the Brumbies, slotted a penalty.

In the women’s premiership, Mel-tap (Melville-Hautapu combined) were beaten 22-19 by Suburbs at Collins Road.

Blindside flanker Lachyn Moeke, lock Kyra Mita and reserve Katie Hepi-Hagan crossed the chalk for Mel-tap and fullback Keira Russell converted twice.

Kihikihi lost 59-7 to TaupiriTe Kauwhata combined in their women’s championship semi-final clash at Te Kauwhata Domain.

Number eight Charlize Waters was the sole try scorer for the visitors and pivot Rinoa Day added the conversion.

The Pirongia division 1A Mooloo Shield side travelled to Murphy Lane for their 34-12 victory against Taupiri. Number eight Liam

McPherson helped himself to a double for Pirongia.

Jason Hill, Ty Demler-Findlay and winger Ruban ManiapotoKing also crossed the chalk. First five-eighth Issac Cullen converted three of the tries and added a penalty goal.

The Pirongia division 1B side kept their unbeaten record intact, beating Taupiri B 38-12. Loose forward Andrew Charleston registered two tried for Pirongia B, while Michael Sanders, Jeke Lesuma, Kayden Moorfield and Michel Ennis also scored. Midfielder Kingston Grant slotted four conversions.

In the division 1A championship Captain Compost Cup, Ōhaupō took down Suburbs 42-22 as they celebrated Dean Fullerton’s 50th match. The first five-eighth kicked 17 points off the tee in front of the home supporters.

Fullback Italia Tualaulelei grabbed a brace, while Scott

Thomas, Bronson Wilson-Beech and Baylee Davies all got one try apiece. Their division 1B side fell 48-7 to Suburbs B. Versatile forward Marley Waaka-Te Amo scored the only try for Ōhaupō B, converted by number 10 Dane Murphy. Pirongia hosted Leamington in the under-21 division, beating them 39-15.

For Pirongia colts, centre Corbin Fleming and winger William Yeeles got a brace of tries each. Others to get five-pointers were Marc Walton, vice-captain Billy Ouston and Braiden Peake. Fleming added two conversions.

In another battle of the Waipā, Hautapu colts dealt to their Te Awamutu Sports opponents 47-5 in Cambridge. Te Awamutu Sports’ sole scorer was Jaoquin Burke. In the presidents grade, Te Rapa Clydesdales beat Te Awamutu Marist Bushpigs 59-29 at St Andrews Park.

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Funeral

Quick crossword Sudoku Wordsearch

Across 1. Resound (5) 4. Rubbish (6) 7. Poem (3)

8. Foetus (6)

9. Bulbous plant used in cooking (6)

10. Full of joy (8)

12. Large urban area (4) 13. Pierce through (6) 15. Bless with oil (6)

16. Data (abbr) (4) 17. Romper (8)

19. Underground chamber (6)

20. Parentless child (6) 22. Chuddy (3)

23. Spin around (6) 24. Stroll (5)

1. Free of charge (13)

2. Broadcast (3)

3. Turn rancid (2,3)

4. Royal insignia (7) 5. Fierce (9)

6. Exact likeness (colloq) (8,5) 11. Long running TV drama (4,5) 14. Erase, cross out (7) 18. Scent (5) 21. Hostelry (3)

Across: 1. Ambush, 4. Absent, 9. Ledge, 10. Obscure, 11. Garment, 13. Able, 14. Streamlined, 17. Food, 18. Limited, 21. Dearest, 22. Sushi, 24. Averse, 25. Browse. Down: 1. Allege, 2. Bid, 3. Suede, 5. Basmati, 6. Ebullient, 7. Them, 8. Contemplate, 12. Rationale, 15. Endless, 16. Admire, 19. Miser, 20. Idea, 23. Sow.

NICONTOFUAKMTRXPLE ETNEANDAGIBEGTGFDI YAAOCHIWRNXLNNIOUD VLREXICFAYCXAGSCTA DIFTPAAIOZAMIELYCN CAATDJSEETRNJKOIHI NNUXIIDCUEITIYVISS PAGTRRHRGPBAFPALEH IINFDIKDYNAMORKIGV DSIYNIBSPANISHXHPK GSLDSPUSNALLALNAHS IUIHSTNIRADNAMPWTS NRBOTNAREPSEWELSHN

AFRIKAANS

ALBANIAN

ARABIC

ARGOT

ARYAN

ATTIC

BANTU

BASQUE

CANT CARIB

COCKNEY

CZECH

with Jan Bilton

Fowl play

Chicken is a global staple, transformed by local ingredients into iconic dishes that showcase cultural flavours. From Southeast Asia, Thai Chicken Curry is a beloved favourite, often made with green or red curry paste, simmered with rich coconut milk or cream, fresh basil, fragrant lime leaves and vegetables for a perfect balance of spicy, savoury and sweet notes.

In contrast, for an intense explosion of Mediterranean flavours, Chicken Puttanesca combines pasta with a fiery, zesty tomato sauce.

Originating from Naples, this quick dish brings together pantry staples — salty anchovies, briny capers, Kalamata olives and garlic — to create a savoury, umami-rich experience.

Chicken Chasseur (or Hunter’s Chicken) represents the rustic, elegant heart of French cooking. This one-pan wonder features browned chicken simmered in a savoury sauce of white wine, brandy, tomato paste, earthy mushrooms, and shallots. It is a comforting braise often finished with fresh tarragon and parsley. These three dishes perfectly illustrate how chicken can be adapted.

Luckily for us, chicken is relatively inexpensive compared to other meats and high in protein to satiate appetites.

Thai-Style Chicken Curry

1-2 tablespoons Thai green curry paste

1 1/2 cups coconut cream

1 whole Makrut (kaffir lime) leaf

1 cup sliced green beans or peas, blanched

500g skinned and boned chicken breast, cut into 2.5cm pieces

1/2 cup each: sliced basil leaves, mint leaves

1-2 tablespoons each: lime juice, fish sauce (or to taste)

Toppings: 1/4 cup basil leaves

1/3 cup coriander leaves, common mint, Vietnamese mint, crispy fried shallots

Place the curry paste in a large wok or frying pan. Whisk in 1/2 a cup of coconut cream. Slowly bring to the boil. Stir in the remaining coconut cream.

66 Homing bird (6)

67 Lottery (6)

69 Last request (5,4)

72 Vigour (6)

73 Musical string plucking (9)

75 Implore (7)

77 Prod (3)

80 Foreign (5)

81 World War II leader (7,9)

82 Take up again (5)

83 Tenderly, softly (6)

84 Exciting anticipation (8)

85 Wear away (5)

DOWN

2 Stubborn (9)

3 Reflection (5)

5 Ladder step (4)

6 Blue (7)

7 Nervous and easily upset (6-6)

8 Killed violently (5)

9 Put on show (7)

10 Early Peruvian (4)

11 More than is needed (6)

12 Sudden flood (5)

13 Winged horse (7)

14 Polish dance (7)

16 Balance (11)

22 Climb (6)

23 Silhouette (7)

24 Stealing intruder (7)

25 Debated (6)

27 Petty (7)

28 Reddish porous lava (6)

Add the Makrut lime leaf and beans, then simmer for 3 minutes. Add the chicken and poach for about 6 minutes, until cooked. Add the basil, mint, lime juice and fish sauce. Serve in bowls topped with the herbs and fried shallots. Serves 4.

Chicken Penne Puttanesca

2 1/2 cups penne pasta

6 anchovies

500g skinned and boned chicken thighs freshly ground black pepper to taste

3 large cloves garlic, crushed

400g can diced tomatoes

1/2 cup pitted Kalamata olives

2 tablespoons rinsed and drained capers

pinch dried chilli

1/4 cup chopped parsley

Bring a large saucepan of lightly salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta until just tender. Drain.

Meanwhile, drain the anchovies, reserving the oil for frying.

Chop the anchovies.

Cut the chicken into 2-3cm cubes. Sprinkle with the pepper. Heat the anchovy oil in a non-stick frying pan. Stir-fry the chicken until no longer pink. Add the anchovies, garlic and tomatoes and simmer for 2 minutes. Add the olives, capers, and chilli, and simmer for about 5 minutes, until slightly

30 Potter’s oven (4)

32 Muzzle (5)

34 Occurrence (5)

36 Stringed instrument (4)

38 Skin-pitting disease (3)

42 Small and dainty (5)

43 Revealing (7)

44 Reverberation (4)

45 Of a horse (6)

46 Idolise (5)

48 Climber (11)

49 Nonsense! (7)

50 Tree (3)

51 Claimed (anag) (7)

52 Centre (6)

53 Abdominal disorder (12)

54 Deprivation (4)

57 Coughed mucus (6)

64 Derided (9)

65 Predicted (7)

66 Courtroom offence (7)

68 Golf course avenue (7)

70 Acute (7)

71 Catch fire (6)

72 Piano key material (5)

74 Beltlike divisions (5)

76 Anaesthetic (5)

78 Tangle (4)

79 In this way (4)

thickened. Add the parsley and the drained pasta. Stir gently. Serve in bowls. Serves 4.

Chicken Chasseur

1kg chicken portions

salt and pepper to taste

3 tablespoons plain flour

1 tablespoon each olive oil, butter

Sauce: 1 tablespoon butter

1 onion, diced

250g mushrooms, sliced

400g can tomatoes in juice

1 cup dry white wine

1/2 cup chicken stock

1 teaspoon dried tarragon

salt and pepper

Cut the chicken into serving-sized pieces and toss in the seasoned flour. Heat the oil and butter in a large non-stick frying pan. Sauté the chicken portions until cooked and golden on all sides, about 15 minutes. Stir occasionally. Meanwhile, prepare the sauce. Melt the butter and sauté the onion until softened. Add the mushrooms and sauté for 3-5 minutes. Add the tomatoes, wine, stock, tarragon, salt and pepper and simmer for about 10 minutes, until reduced. Place the cooked chicken on a serving plate and pour the sauce over the top. Serves 4-5.

14

28

DOWN: 2 Obstinate, 3 Image, 5 Rung, 6 Unhappy, 7 Highly strung, 8 Slain, 9 Display, 10 Inca,

PIRONGIA MARKET

Pirongia Community Centre, Crozier St Sunday, June 28 9am - 1pm

TE AWAMUTU FISH & GAME ASSN INC

Looking for something meaningful and life changing? Interested in working with the disabled?

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

NOTICE

OF

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

The Rosebank Art Centre Charitable Trust – Te Awamutu will be holding it’s A.G.M.on Friday 26th June 2026 @ 12noon at The Rosebank Art Centre 137 Churchill Street, Te Awamutu Agenda

• Election of Officers

• Election of Trustees

• Setting Fees

• Annual Reports

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!

TE AWAMUTU CONTINUING EDUCATION

Wednesday 1st July 2026 - 10am

Mid-Year Luncheon700th Meeting Entry: $4 on arrival Waipa Workingmen’s Club Speaker: Mayor Mike Pettit Topic: From Teacher to Waipa Mayor. Everybody Welcome More info phone 07 870 3223

AnnualTree DistributionDay

Sunday 5th July, 2026 at 9am

P Shaw Property (opp School - Paterangi Rd, Paterangi)

Please supply a sack or large bag for tree transportation

Our club is a non-profit association and appreciates all generous donations for these trees. No eftpos available Enquiries to P Shaw, phone 871 4861

MOVIE NIGHT

JOIN US ON WEDNESDAY, 1 JULY, 6.45PM REGENT THEATRE, TE AWAMUTU

SCREENING: HAMNET ADMISSION: $25 PER PERSON INCLUDES: MOVIE, ICE CREAM OR POP CORN, SPOT PRIZES FOR TICKETS CONTACT US AT TEAWAMUTU@CAB.ORG.NZ OR POP INTO THE CAB AT THE RAY WHITE ARCADE 2/213 ALEXANDRA ST

SPEED CONSTRUCTION for all your building and project needs. Call Ross 021 063 2268

BERNIE, Ross Charles –Passed away at his home, aged 71 years. A private cremation has taken place. There will be no service. Messages to the Bernie family may be sent c/Rosetown Funerals, 262 Ohaupo Road, Te Awamutu 3800.

FULLER, Ronald Peter (Ronnie) – Died 20/06/26 peacefully after a long struggle with dementia, age 81. Loved husband of Elizabeth (nee Scott). Devoted Dad and father-inlaw to Sandra and Catriona, and Steven. Treasured Poppy to Callum. Heartfelt thanks to staff at Hillview. A private service for Ronnie has already been held in accordance with his wishes. Communications to thefullerfamily@proton.me

INSLEY, Raewyn Florence – Passed away peacefully at Waikato Hospital on Wednesday, 17th June 2026, following a recent fall. Much loved and devoted wife of Jim. Cherished and loving mother and M.I.L to Clare & Stephen Christini, and Keith Insley & Tracy Murray. Much loved gran, and great gran. Raewyn was a loving, caring lady, who will be missed dearly. R.I.P. The family sincerely thank the doctors, nurses, and staff of Ward M3 at Waikato Hospital for their kindness and compassion shown to Raewyn during her time there. A celebration of Raewyn’s life has been held. Messages to the Insley Family can be sent c/- 262 Ohaupo Road, Te Awamutu 3800 or in Raewyn’s online tribute book at www. rosetown.co.nz