The Hard Ducks Firefighter Combat Challenge team has cleaned up at the national event on Wellington’s waterfront.
Made up of firefighters from the Te Awamutu and Pirongia Fire Brigade, the team posted several placings at the event earlier this month.
Jodi Reymer (Pirongia) was first female overall and the national champion. She also placed second in the co-ed team and second in the female tandem.
“In terms of the personal growth and learnings, it was of huge value to me,” Reymer said. “Having a solid team training together and pushing each other has really paid off again.”
Reymer said this year she has learned a lot about the mental side of competition and saw firsthand how that can affect performance.
“Coming into a competition in the wrong head space three weeks before nationals really affected the
way I was able to run physically,” Reymer said.
“Fixing that through targeted training in the weeks between then and nationals allowed me to perform at my best and break the national record.”
Te Awamutu firefighter Dave Shaw was the national champion in the over 50s category and also placed second in the co-ed tandem.
“Everyone improved on the North Island champs - that’s always a bonus,” Shaw said.
“This was my eighth time becoming an age group national champion. The work I’m putting in is paying off and working with this team, we all train together and that’s paying off with our results.
“We’ve been training since the year before last, we went to worlds together.
“The team definitely keeps me going. It definitely means a lot that they still want to push me along. They all want to try and
beat me, so that’s what we want.”
Shaw said his highlight was seeing Reymer break her own national record.
“That shows her hard work has paid off. She broke it by for two seconds.
“Second place was about 16 seconds behind her.”
Other Hard Ducks results were a second place for Rob Willey in the over 60 category; Kelly Bennetto was second in female tandem and 14th female overall; Scott Stapleton was 19th overall male and broke the two minutes as well as placing 11th in the co-ed tandem; Matt Cook placed sixth in the over 40s and 14th in male tandem and Ryan Johnstone was seventh in the over 40s as well as 14th in the male tandem.
The Hard Ducks, and a group of other Te Awamutu and Pirongia firefighters, are now looking to the stair climb at the Sky Tower on Saturday.
• Brigade’s asset makes a difference – See page 7
By Jesse Wood
The Transport Agency is considering an Intersection Speed Zone and potential changes to the speed limit on State Highway 3 around St Leger and Golf roads between Te Awamutu and Kihikihi.
Earlier this year, Howard Ashmore, his wife Ginny and Mary Webster launched a petition for a roundabout there.
Howard has lived off St Leger Rd for 29 years and watched its development from a rural lifestyle location to the rural residential place it is today.
“Exiting St Leger Rd or Golf Rd onto State Highway 3 is like playing Russian roulette, there is an accident waiting to happen. When it does, whose conscience will it weigh on?” Ashmore told The News in January.
“With the growth happening on
this road and the general growth in Kihikihi and Te Awamutu, the volume of traffic has increased tenfold.
More than 100 St Leger Rd residents and other interested parties signed the petition.
NZTA has confirmed the section of SH3 has been added to its speed management register for consideration as part of the next National Land Transport Programme for the 2027-2030
It’s a hard duck story
Highway speed limit faces review
period.
“As part of this future review, both an Intersection Speed Zone (ISZ) and potential changes to the permanent speed limit will be investigated,” the NZTA feedback said. “These investigations will consider safety outcomes, traffic volumes, surrounding land use and community feedback to ensure any decisions are evidence-based and aligned with the requirements of the rule for setting speed limits.”
Howard said he is sure the signatories will “interpret the response the same way he has”.
“However, it is a response,” Howard said.
“If there are any further developments, I will inform the participants.
“In the meantime, take particular care crossing this intersection and have faith that something good will happen here one day.”
Jodi Reymer broke her own national record. Photo: Paul Shaw Photography
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Mentoring for Manaia
A Te Awamutu born woman who left school at 15 and faced significant challenges, including losing her home in a fire, has been selected to receive mentoring under the Tuia Rangatahi programme.
Manaia Emery, 25, says her vjourney hasn’t been straightforward, but it’s shaped her purpose.
“I want our rangatahi to see that you can do something if you put your mind to it. You can change your path.”
That belief led her to apply for the Tuia Rangatahi programme, where she is connecting with other young Māori leaders and being mentored by Waipā District Council Mayor Mike Pettit.
“Manaia wants to show what is possible when someone is willing to put themselves forward and commit to something bigger than themselves,” Pettit said.
Through the programme, which is run across the country, Emery will receive one-onone mentoring and attend workshops.
She is studying Te Pou Hono ki Taiao, (Environmental Studies and Conservation Management) at her marae, Kōpua, in partnership with Te Whare Wānanga o Awanuiārangi.
Greyhound adoption day planned
By Jesse Wood
With an increased focus on rehoming retired racing greyhounds, the Shoe Box Appeal Open day and the May Hounds Greyhound Rehoming group adoption day event will take place at Cambridge Raceway on May 31.
Great Mates in Cambridge and Te Kūiti are among the rehoming agencies involved across the region.
Waipā-based greyhound advocate Jenny Bartlett says their priority is ensuring every dog has the opportunity for a happy life beyond racing.
“We have more than 1700 dogs to rehome over the next few years. Last year, just under 700 greyhounds found homes and we’re on the lookout for more responsible pet owners to give these well-cared for dogs a new home,” Bartlett said.
“This event is about bringing the community together, raising awareness and helping people connect with these amazing dogs. They’ll all be there from 10.30am.
“We encourage people to come along and talk to the experts. In attendance will be May Hounds and Great Mates Cambridge.”
On the beat with Senior Constable DEB HANN
Signs of a drug operation
As a follow up to my request for information last week regarding the traffic crash on Carlyle Street, Cambridge, I’m pleased to report that investigations are progressing well and those involved have now been identified.
Today however, I want to take the opportunity to highlight an issue that continues to drive crime and wider social harm in our communities: illegal drug activity.
While, through previous columns, many of you will be familiar with the signs of drug dealing in residential areas, wholesale manufacture and cultivation operations may be located in commercial premises, sometimes right beside legitimate businesses. Earlier this year, a significant cannabis cultivation operation was uncovered in a commercial building in the northern Waikato, a reminder that these setups can operate unnoticed in busy areas.
There are several indicators that a commercial property may be used for illegal drug activity. New tenants may avoid background checks, pay cash up front, or request long lease periods while resisting regular inspections. The person named on the lease may then not be the one regularly seen at the premises. You might notice deliveries of cultivation equipment, garden fertilisers, chemical containers, or laboratory type glassware. Drug operations typically
The event coincides with King’s Birthday weekend, and people will be encouraged to dress up in a royal theme to claim the prize of king and queen of the greyhounds.
“Greyhounds make incredibly gentle, loyal pets and this is a great chance to learn more about what’s involved in giving one a home,” Bartlett said.
The day will include a track walk featuring retired greyhounds and their owners as well as information about the adoption process.
Letters…
Love this place
How lucky we are to live in Te Awamutu!
On May 14, we went to Pak’n Save at about 4pm, came out with a full trolley and found our car had locked us out. There we were, two helpless-looking oldies!
require high power and water usage for heating, ventilation, hydroponics, or chemical processing, and offenders often tamper with meters or illegally alter electrical and plumbing systems. Windows are usually covered to prevent visibility inside, and large extractor fans or industrial filtration units may be installed. Externally, you may see increased fortification such as heavy fencing, locked gates, or extensive CCTV. Activity may be minimal - or occur at unusual hours - and strong odours of cannabis or chemicals may be detectable.
If you notice anything that raises concern, please report it. Every piece of information can help. You can do so anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or by calling 105.
On the topic of reporting, I have seen an increase in posts on social media alerting locals to suspicious vehicles or activity. While I am all in favour of prevention opportunities, I remind everyone of the need to first report the same information to police. Your information relating to vehicle descriptions, timings and locations may well corroborate other information we have received identifying offenders or providing vital evidence as to their patterns and practices. If you see suspicious activity happening in front of you, call 111. Your information helps keep our community safe.
A very kind lady in a blue car took hubby home for the spare key – it was also useless - (did you know about batteries in door openers?) While they were gone, I was guarding the car and another couple offered to help. The driver recognised the car as being bought in Hamilton and tried to ring the firm - no answer. The kind lady brought hubby back and also rang AA for him. Meanwhile, a younger woman asked if she could help. The wind was very cold, and a mother and daughter let me sit in their car while we waited. AA came and solved the problem, and we drove home feeling quite joyful that we live in such a caring town.
Thank you, Te Awamutu.
Flora Bouma Te Awamutu
Thursday, 28 May Finished Artwork 11am Tuesday, 2 June
&
5pm Friday, 29 May
Rates owed
More than $21 million in rates remain unpaid across Waipā. The district council has collected 81 percent of this year’s total. The figures are a slight improvement on last year. Council says most of the unpaid balance relates to current-year rates. A smaller portion has been carried over from previous years.
Star attraction
Pirongia Rugby Sports Club have named the festival teams as they prepare for their 150th birthday bash on King’s Birthday weekend. The Pirongia Waikato Legends XV will feature many international, Waikato and King Country super stars as they take on a New Zealand Harlequins Legends XV on the Sunday. Aaron Cruden, David Hill, Keith Lowen, Liam Messam (All Blacks), Tim Mikkelson (All Blacks Sevens), Jack Lam (Manu Samoa), Johnny Gordon (Hong Kong), Matt Phillips (Italy), David Briggs, Loni Uhila (Tonga), Anthony Wise and Dominiko Waqaniburotu (Fiji) are among those named.
Solar boost
A $2 million solar farm at Cambridge’s wastewater treatment plant should pay for itself in six years, Waipā District Council says. The 1.2-megawatt facility will generate sufficient energy to power half the plant’s daily load.
Water woes
Complaints about drinking water services are running higher than expected across Waipā, though council says there is no risk to public health. Figures show complaints at 21 per 1000 connections, more than double the target of fewer than 10. Some of the increase is a consequence of a new reporting system that captures complaints more accurately.
Under pressure
By Michelle Lachmann
Sanctuary Mountain Maungatautari is celebrating its booming kiwi population, but its chief executive warns its own survival in threatened.
Helen Hughes told The News there was no more than seven weeks of operating cashflow, and the eight full-time rangers were at risk of burn-out after the most challenging year of operations ever.
It’s not the first time –The News revealed in June 2024 that the sanctuary was facing a cash flow crisis.
“The risk of staff fatigue and exhaustion is our biggest vulnerability, without a question,” Hughes said.
“My team is out on chain saws constantly responding to fence breaches, and it can be at 2am, but we only have two chainsaws,” she said
There was no extra money to employ more rangers, who patrol and monitor the fence around the clock, maintaining a safe environment for 35 different bird species.
The 3400-hectare sanctuary on Tari Road is home to at least one kiwi per hectare, bringing it close to holding capacity. The target was reached nine years earlier than originally planned, expected to be in 2035, Hughes said.
However, the past 12 months had been its toughest in its 25-year history, with 22 fence breaches - more than double the normal amount and the most recorded in a single year.
In 95 per cent of cases, a fence breach was caused by a tree falling, and that included some of the country’s oldest rimu, more than 700 years old, Hughes said.
A six-week trapping programme commences immediately within a 500-metre radius of a breach
“It’s not like mother nature serves us up one fence breach at a time. When you get significant winds, you are going to see more trees fall,” she said.
“This is conservation at scale, it’s significant - there is nothing else like this in the world. And, we are right on the back door of Hamilton, Cambridge and the central North Island,” she said.
About 200 community volunteers are a crucial part of operational work, helping care for bird species, or the 730 different types of native flora and fauna at the sanctuary, alongside predator monitoring and checking trap lines.
Ranger staff turnover was high due to the relentless demands of the job, Hughes said.
She called on Waipā district and Waikato residents to support the sanctuary and its work by becoming advocates.
“Come up and be a part of this, get involved, or just come up for a coffee. We love it when the community gets involved. It’s vital to the sanctuary’s long-term survival,” she said.
A request to the Government for $3.2 million over six years was declined this month.
Conservation Minister Tama Potaka said, in
a letter, the financial environment was tough on all conservation work. There simply wasn’t enough money to go around, but he valued the sanctuary’s efforts to species’ recovery in Aotearoa.
Hughes said it was frustrating. Funding from local, regional and central Government had never increased, despite the sanctuary translocating 800 kiwi to several different predator-free projects around the country, including Wellington, Taranaki and Tongariro.
She had relied on her banking and insurance corporate background to turn around the sanctuary’s finances - taking it from losing $50,000 a month to repaying its $250,000 debt and recording a $71,000 annual operating loss to the end of March 2026.
“We slashed costs, and increased revenue, and I
have been very focused on creating a bedrock of financial strength here. We have set up an endowment policy and that’s the longterm game,” she said.
Additional income streams included tourist and cultural tours, a local shuttle service connecting the northern and southern side of the maunga, annual membership deals, the sale of nature and biodiversity credits, the sale of plants grown on-site at its new seedling nursery, alongside an endowment fund, community outreach programme and educational work.
“When I walked into the business, I didn’t know it was going backwards by around $50,000 a month. In that first year I started (2023), we recorded almost a $600,000 operating loss, she said.”
“When you consider our annual operating overheads
are $1.8 million that speaks to some significant challenges and issues. I would say a lot of other conservation projects are probably not too dissimilar,” Hughes said. If other funding wasn’t created, the sanctuary would have to cut back its work.
“We are a seed source of biodiversity for the Waikato, supporting its agricultural and horticultural industries” she said.
“If the central North Island is the food bowl of New Zealand then in order to grow food you need a seed source, you need to propagate seeds and grow them - and we do exactly that as our native birds spread out into surrounding areas.
“We are propagating seeds and growing biodiversity for the region, and we need residents’ support, more than ever now,” Hughes said.
Funeral Director: Teri Keir
Helen Hughes
Just checking – one of the last kiwi to be sent to a new home this season get a health check from Tori Budd, left and Jenny Collie.
Photo: Roy Pilott.
Show and tell…
Waipā’s third Home and Leisure Show at Karapiro has been branded another success.
Thousands of people spent three days browsing the Sir Don Rowlands centre where more than 70 stalls had been set up.
For St Kilda Café and Bistro owner Vikram Singh it was a busy three days spent with a smile on his face.
At this month’s Waikato Hospitality Awards St Kilda placed third in the restaurant category – which was won by another Cambridge restaurant, Alpino. To cap that off, St Kilda also won the people’s choice award.
Singh purchased the business last August and has striven to increase its appeal – and is proud to see its rating improve on the Tripadvisor app.
Upstairs, Tamahere Lions were on deck showing off the community E-Trike they have donated to Riverside Adventures.
The E-Trike is available for use - free - the Te Awa River Ride, making the ride accessible to people who might not otherwise be able to use it.
Back down stars it was impossible to walk past the Zendah Candle stall without noticing the aromas from what appeared to be incredible decorative cocktails.
Natalie Chapple explain the candles are made to burn – but they are usually used as decorations.
Stall holders reported a steady stream of enquiries throughout the three days.
Good Local Media publisher David Mackenzie said he was delighted that in the current economic climate the show still drew in the crowds.
“What struck me was that people were happy… the feedback from both exhibitors and the public was positive – and it helped that the weather was brilliant,” he said.
Cheers - Aphelia Pita, left, and Natalie Chapple brought the Zandah Candles display across from Tauranga.
The Innes story
By Meghan Hawkes
The three small children of Charles Innes were playing in the yard of his brewery at Te Awamutu while he was working upstairs on the third floor.
It was May 1880 and Scotsman Charles had been through a difficult few years. He had come to the district in 1864, aged 40, working initially on a contract building Waikato Hospital.
The next year he started a successful business at Ngāruawāhia as a soda water and cordial manufacturer. He would follow the trade of a brewer the rest of his life, establishing breweries in Alexandra, Te Awamutu and Hamilton East but he would suffer heavy financial losses and be bankrupted twice.
For a time, he owned a 30foot steam canoe, Gymnotus Electricus, a screw-propelled vessel which could work in the narrow waters of the Waipā and Waikato rivers but this, too, added to Charles’ financial troubles.
In 1874 he married Mary Jane Lewis who was 28 years his junior. Mary was Welsh; she and her siblings having immigrated to New Zealand after the death of their parents. When Charles, heavily mortgaged, lost the
brewery the next year Mary invested her inheritance to finance another brewery in Charles’ name at Te Awamutu. They moved to the township and began their large family. The bottled beer of Innes’s Te Awamutu brewery was considered ‘really excellent’ and was favourably compared to ‘English beer.’
Now Charles and Mary’s eldest child aged four, came running to Charles saying that one year old Isabella had fallen into a tub of water. Charles hurried to the brewery’s bottom floor. Isabella was on the ground close to the tub.
He went for the doctor, but he was not in; he then went for Mr Sloane, chemist. Mr Sloane tried putting Isabella in a hot bath as well as other means to restore respiration but was unsuccessful. An inquest found that Isabella had drowned.
The Innes’s carried on after this tragedy but the Te Awamutu brewery fell victim to the 1880s economic depression and Charles became bankrupt again.
Mary took over the brewery while Charles remained as the brewer. She also took over their Waikato Brewery.
Then they let the Te Awamutu brewery decline
and moved to Hamilton to concentrate on their business there. Misfortune again struck when Charles and Mary’s daughter Annie died aged 18 in 1893. Four years later their Waikato Brewery burned down. Undaunted, Mary had it redeveloped into new premises.
By July 1899, Charles, now 75, had been feeling unwell and thinking a warm bath might help, began preparing one of his brewery vats to soak in. His son Frank left the building to feed his horse. When he returned there was no sound. He found his father underneath about 15 inches of water. With help, Charles was lifted from the vat, but it was too late. It was thought that the hot water had affected his heart and that he took a fit or fainted.
Charles, Annie and Mary are buried at Hamilton East cemetery.
Innes Common in Hamilton was financed by the family.
They’ll take it as red…
By Jesse Wood
Women from all over the Waikato gathered at the Te Awamutu RSA last week to discuss fashion and raise funds for the Breast Cancer Foundation.
Hosted by the RSA women’s section, the Rosetown Red Hatters and other chapter members from Morrinsville, Hamilton Central and Rototuna enjoyed a catwalk of Caroline Eve winter fashion.
The clothing was modelled by Red Hatters Maureen McRae,
Pinkham, Jan
Patsy Lyall and Eunice Rika.
RSA women’s section
president Lyn Dickie and Rosetown Red Hatters queen Barbara Preece welcomed the attendees.
About 40 women attended the event, socialised, watched the fashion show, created their winter clothing wish list and participated in the four raffles.
“My red hatters know what we do when we get dressed up like this and go out - we have fun,” Preece said.
“Let’s face it, where else
would you wear all this bling?
You wear it and you enjoy wearing it, but you wouldn’t wear it anywhere else, would you?
“It’s the same with the red hats. Lots of ladies say, ‘I’d love to come but I couldn’t possibly wear a red hat’.”
Preece said that a lot of women do put the red hat on. Once they do that and they see everybody else in red hats, their confidence grows.
“It grows to the extent that they will come to events and they’ll even get dressed up in
fashions and show you how you could look too.”
Dickie said the RSA group would love to host another similar event in the future.
Many stories were shared and laughs had among the sea of red hats and smiling winter clothing models.
“This is part of being a red hatter, to have fun at our age,” Preece said.
“When you’ve been in a red hat group anywhere in the world, it’s all about having fun as you get older.”
Brigade’s asset makes a difference
The Te Awamutu Fire Brigade’s new response vehicle has become a valuable asset to the community.
Since its introduction two months ago, the vehicle has been used about 10 times to support crews at motor vehicle crashes and lift assists.
“It hasn’t been on the run too long, but it’s been to a few accidents, a backup for the fires and back up for medicals as well,” qualified firefighter Deane Mark said.
Te Awamutu Fire Brigade members, families and sponsors gathered for the official dedication and blessing of the ute in March.
A year-long project was driven by generosity from Te Awamutu individuals, organisations and businesses.
Chief fire officer Ian Campbell said the vehicle significantly strengthened the brigade’s response capability for years to come.
A major contributor to the project’s success was the Sam Cane Fundraising Night held in August 2025.
“The generosity shown by our sponsors and supporters was extraordinary,” Campbell said.
“The new ute’s 4x4 capability, along with the advanced extraction tools we plan to equip it with, will strengthen our ability to support both rural communities and urban rescues when severe weather events strike.”
“This vehicle is a direct result of the support we received. It will enhance our operational capability and help us protect our community for many years to come.”
or Ilana.
Terry
Ballantyne,
Te Awamutu RSA women’s section secretary Raewyn Adams and Morrinsville Red Hatters queen Raewyn Matthews at the event. Photo: Jesse Wood
RSA women’s section president Lyn Dickie and Rosetown Red Hatters queen Barbara Preece enjoyed the socialisation and supporting the Breast Cancer Foundation.
Photo: Jesse Wood
That’s a wrap!
The 2026 Waipā Home & Leisure Show has o cially come to a close - and what a great few day it was. Thank you to all our visitors who travelled out to the show and made the most of their time getting to know and purchasing from our local experts. It was great to see so many friendly faces enjoying everything the show had to offer. We also appreciate the helpful feedback – particularly about what you would like to see in 2027.
Thanks, too, to all our exhibitors who worked hard and put the effort into their stands, shared their products, and also came up with show specials and giveaways at a time of rising household costs and an international fuel crises. It takes visitors and exhibitors, working alongside the Good Local Media team to put on a good show - one doesn’t work without the other, and we couldn’t do it without you.
We will be back next year… until then, thanks again.
Winner of $5000 Luxury weekend
Courtesy of Te Karaka Lodge & Winger Motors Cambridge
John Bradley - Te Awamutu
Winner drawn on May 18th by Cambridge Police
By Peter Nicholl
The Prime Minister was reported after his recent trip to Singapore to be looking at the Singapore model to fix our economy.
I agree that the Singapore model has been very successful for them. In 1990 the gross domestic product of Singapore and New Zealand were about the same. Prior to that, Singapore’s GDP had been below ours. Today it is more than double that of New Zealand and the gap is continuing to get bigger. Unfortunately, we are not Singapore.
About the only thing we have in common is a relatively small population: 6.1 million in their case, 5.3 million in our case. The geographic differences are huge and significant. Singapore is in Asia. Close to three billion people live within 4500 kilometres of them. This both gives them trading opportunities and makes them an important transport hub. Around 25 million people live within 4500 kilometres of us - less than one per cent of the Singapore number. Singapore is also small with a very high population density. Its land area is only 744 square kilometres - smaller than the urban area of Auckland. Our area is 268,000 square kilometres. Singapore’s compactness is a huge advantage for many infrastructure projects such as roading and public transport.
New Zealand can do nothing about the geographic advantages Singapore has. I remember listening to a Goon Show when I was young in which the Goons solution for Britain’s poor economic performance was to tow it across the Atlantic and anchor it near America. Alas, that solution isn’t available to us.
The characteristics in which New Zealand
is ‘not Singapore’ are not just geographical.
There was a very good opinion piece in the New Zealand Herald recently by Leonard Hong that described other differences between the two countries. The most significant is that Singapore has built strong financial institutions such as a Central Provident Fund, a national infrastructure fund and sovereign wealth funds. Because of these institutions, Singapore has been able to finance its own high level of infrastructure investment and become a capital-exporting country. New Zealand has under-invested in many key infrastructure areas and much of the investment we have done has been financed by borrowing. New Zealand set up a Compulsory Savings Fund in 1975 – but it was scrapped after less than a year. Singapore is also more efficient in implementing large-scale infrastructure projects. Leonard Hong noted in Singapore the technical requirements of projects are clear and accurate, and the approval process is rapid. Here it is long and tortuous, and new governments often cancel projects started by their predecessor. I have been amazed by how often the cost of infrastructure projects end up being much higher than what was estimated when the project was approved. I don’t know if the problem is inefficient implementation or faulty technical analysis. It is probably a mixture of both. Our model for implementing infrastructure projects could not be further away from the Singapore model.
Seeing through the fog
By Murray Smith, Bridges Church
It’s not uncommon to have dense fog settle like a blanket across the Waikato. Due to low-lying damp areas and river valleys surrounding the Waikato River, we’re known as one of the ‘foggiest’ areas in New Zealand.
Fog is basically a cloud forming at ground level as microscopic water droplets become suspended in the air when the earth cools down. When air cools to a point where it can’t hold water vapour, that vapour condenses into cloud droplets, which we see as fog.
I’ve had close ‘encounters’ navigating foggy Waikato roads. One night driving home to Cambridge, visibility was down to 15 metres. I drove carefully respecting the conditions, straining to follow the road’s features. A large nondescript shape suddenly loomed out of the gloom. I hit the brakes and inched forward. The ‘shape’ revealed itself to be a big black cow standing indifferently in the middle of the road. She eyed me casually, reluctant to move. I got out and tried to ‘encourage’ her over to the side. Lights of a nearby farmhouse dimly glowed through the mist. I made my way there and the occupants took over.
Fog certainly impacted things for young Florence Chadwick. Having been the first woman to swim the English Channel both ways, she entered the waters from Catalina Island to swim 35 kilometres to the coast of California. Her support crew gave encouragement from small boats. The water was cold, the currents were difficult and it was disconcerting having to keep sharks at bay with a rifle.
Then fog settled in. Exhausted after 16
hours, Florence begged to be pulled on board.
Florence’s mother urged her to press on since she was so close. From Florence’s perspective, with the terribly daunting fog, it was over…disappointingly, she was scarcely a kilometre from shore.
Later she told a reporter “I’m not making excuses but feel I could have made it if I could just have seen the land….”
‘Fog’ metaphorically describes what the Bible refers to as ‘the veil over all nations’ (Isaiah 25:7-8). This ‘shroud’ over the world is a reality evidenced today by manifold evil agendas and spiritual darkness ‘blanketing’ our troubled planet earth. Mists of distorted ideas and deceptive theories have obscured truth, destroying values resulting in multitudes losing their way. It’s popular these days to refer to ‘my truth’ while objective truth, relevant for everyone, is rejected. The fog shrouding Florence distorted her perspective. In a spiritual sense we too cannot see properly due to flawed, limited perception…only God can lift the veil off us, restoring true perspective.
The Bible states, “Your life is like the morning fog - it’s here a little while, then it’s gone.”(James 4:14). This graphic description of our fleeting earthly life being temporary and unpredictable like mist or vapour is apt…not knowing what tomorrow holds, makes knowing the one who holds tomorrow, imperative. Fully entrusting our lives to God, we find lasting clarity, purpose and unshakeable hope and peace.
Growth projects delayed
By Mary Anne Gill
Waipā District Council is spending less than planned this year, but delays to major projects are starting to bite.
A report to yesterday’s Finance and Corporate committee shows operating spending at 81 percent of forecast, just below the expected year to date benchmark.
At the same time, revenue is running slightly ahead at 85 percent, leaving the council with an accounting surplus.
Income was boosted by a dividend from Waikato Regional Airport, in which Waipā District Council holds a 15.6 per cent stake.
The underspend is partly due to vacant roles. Lower employee costs are helping to keep spending below forecast. Lower-than-expected interest costs have also contributed to the result.
The meeting was held after The News went to press.
Financial accountant Nada Milne reported the result reflected timing rather than extra money in the bank.
“The higher income, together with lower
operational costs, has resulted in an accounting surplus,” she said. “But this does not necessarily translate to an actual cash surplus at the end of the rating year.”
The bigger issue is capital works.
Council has spent just 62 percent of its capital programme so far, well below the expected 83 percent.
About $23.5 million worth of projects have been carried forward from last year, and further growth projects are also pushed out this year. A significant share of projects is now being pushed into the next financial year.
Milne said the delays were largely outside council control.
“Slower than expected land purchases and developer or contractor delays have meant a number of projects have been carried forward,” she said.
Growth-related work has taken the biggest hit.
Capital spending for growth projects is now forecast at $96.2 million, down sharply from the original $166.2 million budget. Council said many of those projects would now fall into 2026-27.
The council continues to plan for growth. District values have increased by about 1.25 percent over the year.
“There have also been capital adjustments bringing the forecast down, with the majority related to growth projects deferred to the next financial year,” Milne said.
That has a direct impact on communities like Cambridge and Te Awamutu, where much of the district’s growth is concentrated.
Projects linked to housing, transport and infrastructure are being deferred, adding pressure to areas already dealing with rapid population growth.
A review of the capital programme is under way to better align budgets with realistic delivery timeframes.
“Carry-forward capital budgets will be reassessed through the capital works programme review to better align forecast cash flows with budget timing,” Milne said.
For Waipā residents, it means some of the roads, pipes and other infrastructure needed to support growth will take longer to turn up.
ATP
Award for van der Poel
Former Dairy NZ chair Jim van der Poel has been presented with an award for outstanding service to the dairy sector .
The award for the Waipā business leader was made at the National Dairy Industry Awards in Rotorua where he spoke of his passion for the programme.
The Services to the Dairy Industry Award is given out on rare occasions and Tim Mackle was the previous recipient in 2023.
Van der Poel was applauded by a crowd of more than 640 dairy farmers and industry representatives.
“I was blown away. I’m very appreciative because it is such a significant award,” he said. “You don’t do it for the recognition – you do it because you want to help or make a difference.”
He accepted the award with his wife Sue. The pair were winners of the Waikato Sharemilker of the Year in 1987 – which was just before the regional programme became national in 1989.
“I’ve been really lucky with the support I’ve had. Of course, the biggest
support has come from Sue and my wider family, but also all the business partners and people I’ve worked with. You do these roles and other people fill in for you or support you, so I’ve been really lucky.”
He cited the New Zealand Dairy Industry Awards programme as an important part of building the capability of farmers who would eventually stand up to be similar representatives in leadership roles for the industry.
“I’m a great fan of the New Zealand Dairy Industry Awards because they celebrate success within the industry. They
Bone and Body Blueprint
also recognise and identify really good people coming through and offer learning opportunities for them.
New Zealand Dairy Industry Awards Trust Chair Paulette Johns presented the award, recognising outstanding commitment to the dairy sector, including governance roles with Fonterra and DairyNZ.
“Jim is recognised as a distinguished leader across the dairy sector, having made a sustained and influential contribution over more than four decades of farming, governance and national industry leadership,” Johns said.
Health on Mahoe brings together a collection of independent health and well-being specialists under one roof. The complex at 160 Mahoe Street has on-site parking and the convenience of a central reception area for ease of bookings.
Come and see us
Please contact reception on 07 870 4321, Monday to Friday from 8am to 5pm.
At ATP Therapy, we provide Photobiomodulation Therapy (PBMT) to patients of all ages. These red, near-infra-red (NIR) and cold laser treatments reduce pain, inflammation and accelerate healing. We can treat any type of injury or inflammatory condition quickly without discomfort.
PBMT is clinically proven to improve muscle performance and enhance strength and stamina while protecting from injury. That’s why red and near infra-red-light therapy, like our NovoTHOR® whole body bed, is loved by athletes and performance specialists everywhere.
We specialise in DXA scanning to assess bone mineral health (Bone Density Scan) and visceral fat/muscle mass (Body Composition Analysis). Using the Gold Standard DXA technology, our friendly experienced team provide accurate and scientific data to assist with your health journey. We are passionate about the prevention of Osteoporosis, ischaemic heart disease and diabetes due to low bone density, low muscle mass and high visceral fat.
4 Clarity
Anne has over 2 decades of experience working in the mental health and wellness sector, the last
Health on Mahoe brings together a collection of independent health and well-being specialists under one roof. The complex at 160 Mahoe Street has on-site parking and the convenience of a central reception area for ease of bookings. Come and
nine of which have been in primary care working as a brief intervention therapist in rural communities. Anne currently runs clinics in Te Awamutu, Otorohanga and Te Kuiti and has contracts with Pinnacle Midlands Health Network, Victim Support, Rural Support Trust and Private clients.
Watershed Lymphoedema
The lymphatic system may become blocked by infection, surgery, congenital abnormalities or cancercausing swelling.
We can help you through an individualised program, which may include massage taping, bandaging or use of compression pump and garments.
Please contact reception on 07 870 4321, Monday to Friday from 8am to 5pm.
Sue and Jim van der Poel pictured with Paulette Johns, left.
Sports are overwhelmed
By Jesse Wood
Hautapu went on a rampage at Cambridge Memorial Park, beating Te Awamutu 101-7 to retain the Waipā Cup and the George Simpkin Shield.
Hautapu registered 15 tries in front of their home supporters to remain second on the points table, four behind Hamilton Marist, but with a game in hand and superior for and against record.
The big win followed a 7021 defeat of Morrinsville away at Campbell Park a week earlier, and an 81-5 thumping of Matamat a week before that.
Former King Country loose forward Matthew Towers was the sole Te Awamutu try scorer. Winger Leo Scott added a conversion.
Another King Country Rams alumnus, Hautapu fullback Patrick Hedley slotted 13 conversions and grabbed a try.
Other scorers were Waikato lock Dylan Eti (2), midfielder Karlan Mosaati (2), premier debutant Josh Brunger (2), David Morris, Rangiwai Lunjevich, Konelio Burgess, Mooloo halfback Rui Farrant, Henry Brown, Harry Chittick, Kena Ahipene and Alapati Soagia.
Mel-tap (Melville-Hautapu combined) fell short in their
top of the table women’s premiership clash with Hamilton Old Boys Huskiez in Cambridge, 38-26. Centre Nikita Apiata, hooker Kaden Moeke, number 10 Melina Salale and reserve Eden Early crossed the chalk for Mel-tap.
Fullback Keira Russell added three conversions.
In division 1A, Leamington, Ōhaupō and Pirongia were all victorious.
Leamington hosted Taupiri and won 22-13. Winger Robert Day added 12 points to his impressive season tally. Cameron Collins and Karl Bolton were also try scorers
for the home side. Ōhaupō trekked to Morrinsville and beat Kereone 55-22. Fullback Italia Tualaulelei helped himself to four tries, evergreen winger Lance Elrick crossed for two and fellow backs Dean Fullerton, Chris Ferguson and Byron Tonihi also scored. Fullerton added five conversions.
Pirongia pipped Hinuera 26-22 at Wealleans Park.
Number 10 Jason Hill scored 11 points and Liam McPherson also grabbed a try in the four try apiece win. Hill’s conversion success was the telling difference.
Their division 1B sides were also successful. Leamington B beat Taupiri B 22-13, Ōhaupō B got over their Kereone counterparts 36-22 and Pirongia B thrashed Hinuera B 73-12.
In the women’s’ championship, Pirongia beat Hinuera 17-10 at Wealleans Park. Fullback Sarah Moorhouse scored a try and added a conversion, while vice-captain Jordan Rodgers and second five-eighth Emma Foss were the other scorers.
Te Awamutu Sports colts were pipped 18-17 by
Pirongia in the mate versus mate clash containing several ex-Te Awamutu College first XV reps.
Pivot Jaoquin Burke scored all of the Te Awamutu points under the mountain – two tries, two conversions and a penalty goal. Openside flanker Marc Walton and winger William Yeeles grabbed tries for the young Pirongia men. Centre Corbin Fleming kicked a conversion and two penalty goals.
Leamington fell short 34-17 against Hinuera under-21. Cruz Holmes-Burr scored one
of Leamington’s three tries at the rural Matamata club and Frank Hughes converted one. Hautapu colts won by default against the MelvilleUniversity-Te Rapa combined side.
In the presidents grade, Pirongia Mountain Men dealt to Ngāruawāhia 59-25 at Pirongia Domain. Hamilton Marist presidents pulled away in the second half to beat Te Awamutu Marist Bushpigs at Castleton Park.
Kihikihi Stallions won by default against Melville Mustangs in presidents grade.
Pirongia colts prop Boston Zeuren tries to bust through the Te Awamutu Sports defence. Photo: Emma Denize
Georgia Packer wins a lineout against Hinuera. Photo: Julie Gibson
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 ExperienceCHAPEL & CATERING FACILITIES • PREPLANNED FUNERALS
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rwteawamutu.co.nz/TEA31444
SUGAR, Peter Joseph –
DESIGN COORDINATOR
We’re looking for an organised, detail-focused Design Coordinator to help deliver high-quality construction projects from concept through to consent.
MEETING NOTICES
Pursuant to Section 46 of the Local Government Official Information and Meetings Act 1987 notice is hereby given that:
The following meeting was cancelled in May 2026Monday, May 18, 2026 Regulatory Committee
10.00am Council Chambers 101 Bank Street TE AWAMUTU
The following extraordinary meeting will be taking place in May 2026 -
Monday, May 25, 2026 Extraordinary Chief Executive Performance Management Committee
3.00pm Mayor’s Office 101 Bank Street TE AWAMUTU
The details of this meeting including the subject matter and resolutions can be found on the council website under the Meetings and Agendas page.
The following meetings will be held in June 2026Wednesday, June 3, 2026 Strategic Planning and Policy Committee
9.15am Council Chambers 101 Bank Street TE AWAMUTU
Thursday, June 4, 2026 Workshop and Briefings Day 10.15am Council Chambers 101 Bank Street TE AWAMUTU
Monday, June 15, 2026 Risk and Assurance Committee 9.15am Council Chambers 101 Bank Street TE AWAMUTU
Tuesday, June 16, 2026 Chief Executive Performance Management Committee 3.00pm Mayoral Office 101 Bank Street TE AWAMUTU
Wednesday, June 17, 2026 Service Delivery Committee 9.15am Council Chambers 101 Bank Street TE AWAMUTU
Tuesday, June 23, 2026 Te Awamutu and Kihikihi Community Board
6.00pm Council Chambers 101 Bank Street TE AWAMUTU
Wednesday, June 24, 2026 Council 9.15am Council Chambers 101 Bank Street TE AWAMUTU
Monday, June 29, 2026 Workshop and Briefings Day 9.15am Cambridge Service Centre 23 Wilson Street CAMBRIDGE
Key responsibilities:
• Coordinate design consultants and manage project documentation
• Support design changes, submissions, and approvals
• Assist with planning and consent processes
• Ensure compliance with NZ Building Code
• Support procurement and project handover
About you:
• Experience in construction, architecture, or engineering
• Strong organisational and communication skills
• Knowledge of NZ Building Code and H&S requirements
• Proactive, solutions-focused approach
Join a supportive, collaborative team delivering quality projects. Apply now: annette.venter@wcml.co.nz
Applicants must have NZ residency or a valid NZ work visa
2026 Ownership Review
Passed away at Waikato Hospital on Monday, 18th May 2026, aged 90 years. Father and father-in-law of Bruce and Delwyn, Mark and Tanya, Maree and Steve, and Mark and Nicole. Grandad of 10 grandchildren and 3 greatgrandchildren. A memorial service for Peter will be held at Te Awamutu Bible Chapel, Chapel Drive, Te Awamutu, on Wednesday, 27th May 2026 at 1.00pm. Messages to the Sugar family may be sent c/- 262 Ohaupo Road, Te Awamutu 3800, or left in Peter’s online tribute book at www.rosetown.co.nz.
HOWIE, Graham David –Passed away peacefully after a very brief illness at Waikato Hospital on Friday, 15th May 2026, aged 77 years. Loving partner of Jo. Beloved father and father-in-law of Simon and Rachael, Dan and Samara, and now reunited with his dearly loved daughter Tam. Cherished Poppa of Kahlyn and Soren. Come and join us at the memorial service for the “Unofficial Mayor of Arapuni” to celebrate Graham’s life at the Te Awamutu & District Memorial RSA, 381 Alexandra Street, Te Awamutu, on Monday, 25th May 2026 at 1:00pm. Messages to the Howie family may be sent c/- 262 Ohaupo Road, Te Awamutu 3800, or left in Graham’s online tribute book at www. rosetown.co.nz.
PUBLIC CONSULTATIVE PROCEDURE
In accordance with the Deed of Trust under which the Waipā Networks Trust has been constituted, the Trustees and the Directors of Waipā Networks Limited have prepared a joint report considering proposals and available options for the future ownership of Waipā Networks Limited.
The Trustees and the Directors propose that the Ownership of the Company should continue to remain 100% Trust owned on behalf of the Community.
The Trustees hereby implement a Public Consultative Procedure. Notice is given that the Ownership Review will be available for inspection by the public from the 1st May 2026, from the Trusts website www.waipanetworkstrust.co.nz or during normal business hours at the following location:
Waipā Networks Ltd 240 Harrison Drive TE AWAMUTU
Persons interested in the proposals are invited to make written submissions to the Trustees.
All mail submissions should be addressed to:
Submissions to the Trustees
Waipā Networks Trust PO Box 34 TE AWAMUTU 3840
All email submissions should be addressed to: info@waipanetworkstrust.co.nz
Persons wishing to make submissions should ensure that those submissions are received at the above address no later than 5pm 30th June 2026 (“the due date”). Submissions received by the due date will be made publicly available.
In due course, any persons who make written submissions by the due date will be offered an opportunity to be heard by the Trustees at a meeting open to the public.
KM Heeringa Trust Manager WAIPA
Supporting our people for 25 years
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See Nepia funeral services FB & website Jack Nepia 027 466 8166 9 WALTON STREET TE AWAMUTU
WILLSHIRE, Laraine Jessie – Passed away suddenly at home, on Friday, 8th May 2026. Dearly loved partner of Rod. Cherished mother of Chris, Anna and Richard. Treasured grandmother of her five adored granddaughters. A devoted pharmacist who took great pride in serving her community with care and compassion.
“Loved and remembered always”. A service for Laraine has been held. Livestreaming available at teawamutufuneralservices. co.nz (under funeral recordings). All communications c/- the Willshire family to PO Box 137, Te Awamutu
WESTERN, Gary George – Passed away peacefully at home on Thursday, 14th May 2026, aged 69 years. Loved son of the late George and Pauline. Loved brother of Jill, Kim, Russ, and the late Lynne. Loved uncle to his nieces and nephews. A celebration of Gary’s life will be held at the Te Awamutu Presbyterian Centre, Mutu Street, Te Awamutu, on Tuesday, 26th May 2026 at 1:00pm. Messages to the Western family may be sent c/- 262 Ohaupo Road, Te Awamutu 3800, or left in Gary’s online tribute book at www.rosetown.co.nz.
