Te Awamutu News | May 28, 2026

Looking for tales of a doctor

By Jesse Wood

When late Te Awamutu doctor Lindsay Rogers returned to New Zealand 80 years ago, he brought with him clay tablets containing some of the oldest written records.

Now Cuneiform Australia New Zealand (Canz) is working to translate and understand the Sumerian clay tablets – dating back more than 5000 years.

Cuneiform is the earliest known writing system and was developed by the Sumerians, in what today is Iraq, around 3200BC.

The Canz project aims to translate and publish every cuneiform text held in Australian and New Zealand collections.

Researchers hope to publish a book next year detailing the collection Rogers donated to the Otago Museum. It is one of the most significant

of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere.

At the same time Wellington-based Dan Armstrong, originally from near Taumarunui but who grew up in Te Awamutu, is piecing together Rogers’ story for a biography to be part of the book.

The longtime Te Awamutu community advocate learned Rogers’ story in the late 2010s and wants to hear more about him from Waipā residents.

Lindsay Rogers OBE is part of Te Awamutu’s walk of fame, and his name goes hand in hand with Te Awamutu College and the Rogers Charitable Trust.

Born in Dunedin in 1902, Rogers practiced medicine in the 1930s in and around Te Awamutu.

“At the time rural doctors travelled around their areas on bad roads and having to adapt to sorts of needs and issues,”

Dan Armstrong said.

“In WWII, he was a surgeon in Northern Africa and did clandestine work in Yugoslavia and Asia.”

Rogers served with the British Royal Army Medical Corps and volunteered for special duty with the British Special Operations Executive. He was deployed to Yugoslavia to work with the Partisan forces led by dictator Josip Tito.

Rogers’ many experiences at war prompted him to write the memoir Guerilla Surgeon, first published in 1957 and republished as recently as 2024.

“Post-war saw a stint in Iraq teaching medicine and acquiring many antiquities,” Armstrong said.

A friend of Otago Museum director Harry Skinner, Rogers acquired many items, including the clay tablets, for the museum’s collections while in Iraq.

Rogers returned to Te Awamutu after 1950, started a family and farmed on Cambridge Road.

Longtime Waipā resident Doug Semmens and his twin brother Steve were born on Rogers’ Cambridge Rd farm on September 2, 1958, and their father George milked cows for Rogers.

The doctor drowned in New Caledonia in 1962 and after the death of his wife Isobel in 1989, the dairy farm was bequeathed to Te Awamutu College.

Rogers Charitable Trust

was formed in 1995 and the dairy farm sold in 2023. The proceeds from the sale are now managed by trustees.

Each year, interest generated from the fund is donated to Te Awamutu College for projects including school buildings and facilities,

furniture, vehicles, student prizes, scholarships and uniform subsidies.

Dan Armstrong says he is keen to hear from anyone who has any stories about Rogers, a “larger than life character” to sharesuggesting there will still be a

few locals who knew him in the 1950s and 1960s.

“I’ve spoken with some people already and I’m keen to hear more.”

• Can you help? Email editor@goodlocal.nz and put the words Lindsay Rogers in the subject line.

College band on song

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Walking and weighting

A craze sweeping the country was ‘pedestrianism’ – long distance competitive walking matches, sometimes carrying weights. Mr Ross, of Pirongia, undertook the difficult task of walking to Auckland. He was formerly in the Irish Constabulary and accustomed to athletic exercises. He looked like a man able for the task, having a predominance of bone and muscle. He was about 5ft 9in and his frame ‘well knit’. A considerable sum was staked on the event, but the betting was about even. Mr Ross was confident that he could accomplish the task and indeed did - walking a distance of 103 miles in 48 consecutive hours carrying 56lbs.

A fair sprinkling of settlers from around the district attended Te Awamutu’s Agricultural show. The paddock used for the show was rather rough; some of it having been burnt off - and dry weather made the dust very troublesome. Farmers, however, were not

On the beat

bothered by these small inconveniences and Mr Kirkwood had a booth at which the dry and thirsty could get relief. There was considerable discussion as to whether the show was equal to that of the previous year. There were fewer entries of cattle, sheep and horses but the quality was up to standard. There was only one representative of the porcine species, which was regretted, as bacon and ham were anticipated to be one of the principal exports from the Waikato.

Among the prizes one went to Captain Beckett who showed a very perfect reaper and mower. Mr Westney took another for both single and double harrow ploughs, Mr Taylor for a roller and Mr Storey for a seed drill. Messrs Gubbins exhibited a cheese press, but there was no prize offered.

The dinner following the show was not to a local reporter’s taste. The result of an agricultural dinner, he observed, was usually to force a number of men upon their legs to string a number of sentences together into what was commonly termed a speech. On all such occasions they generally had little to say, had no desire to say it, and if they had, lacked

Arborists and arbour risks

This week I’d like to begin with a word of caution. Although doortodoor sales are far less common these days, police continue to receive reports of concerning behaviour from travelling tradespeople, most often arborists. Last week we were notified of a man who approached two elderly residents demanding payment for tree pruning work neither had requested nor authorised. When they refused, his behaviour became more threatening. Such transient operators are often unqualified, uninsured, and difficult to hold accountable. It is best to avoid them.

Reputable arborists do not solicit for work in this manner. They provide formal quotes, schedule work in advance, and make payment terms clear without requiring any payment upfront. If you are approached by a travelling arborist, you are under no obligation to entertain their offer, and if their behaviour becomes intimidating or you feel unsafe, please call 111.

Secondly, I also want to remind drivers about safely making way for emergency vehicles. While recently responding under lights and sirens along Victoria Street, I encountered a range of reactions from those ahead. Many drivers correctly pulled to the left, but some moved right, creating unnecessary confusion, while others appeared unaware of my patrol car being

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behind them at all. Whether it’s police, fire, or ambulance, the rule is the same. Always move promptly to the left so the emergency vehicle can pass safely on your right. Maintaining awareness of the vehicles around you whenever travelling on the road helps ensure everyone can respond safely to the actions of others and changing conditions.

Finally, last Friday afternoon Cambridge staff responded to a report of a recidivist shoplifter at Woolworths. The male offender from Hamilton was quickly located and arrested. He was found to also be wanted for six further thefts across the Waikato and to have been breaching court release conditions. He therefore faced a total of seven charges in court and has been remanded in custody.

In Te Awamutu, a female was arrested following a family harm incident last weekend and has appeared in court on associated charges. A young person was also arrested after failing to stop for police and engaging in dangerous driving. He will be appearing in youth court.

In the last week both Cambridge and Te Awamutu had one driver each who was found driving with excess breath alcohol. Both face associated charges in court.

the ability from lack of practice, of making their meaning intelligible.

The absence of finger posts or some other means of guidance for those travelling through the Waikato was very often felt by those unacquainted with the country. The number of tracks branching off from the main roads which led from one township to another frequently led travellers astray and put them to much loss of time and inconvenience. One unfortunate wayfarer lost his way on the road from Ōhaupō to Hamilton during the night and blundered into the Big Swamp where he wandered among the numerous blind tracks for some three hours until he eventually struck the trail for Hamilton. Finger posts at the different crossings would eliminate the curses so often heaped upon the heads of the road board trustees by benighted equestrians.

Film festival spot

Megan Goldsman’s short film Bodies of Water has been selected for next month’s Baaria Film Festival in Bagheria, Sicily.

The film had its premiere in Te Awamutu at the Misty Flicks Film Festival last November and was awarded Best Screenplay.

“The Regent’s Theatre was where I saw my first ever movie. So it feels really special to have had my own film play there,” Goldsman, who grew up in Cambridge, said.

The story, written by Goldsman, and directed by Shelley Waddams, follows the meeting between as estranged mother and daughter- and highlights the intricacies of maternal relationships.

Silver celebration

Te Awamutu Presbyterian Community Centre has won a Silver Award for Waikato Construction Management at the New Zealand Commercial Project Awards. The $3.3 million centre in Mutu St opened debt free 12 months ago. Funding cuts, Covid disruption and a full redesign were among the obstacles the Te Awamutu construction company navigated in completing the project.

Planting programme

It’s hoped to add 10,000 native plants to Sainsbury Road Reserve, west of Pirongia, during a community planting event on June 13. The planting contributes to the Taiea te Taiao Project, which aims to restore an ecological corridor between Maungatautari and Pirongia.

Taking the plunge

Fourteen year old Ruby Budd has returned home with three gold medals from the North Island Diving Championships in Wellington. Home-schooled Ruby, who lives near Pirongia, is a member of the Waikato Diving Club and has used her gymnastics background to progress in the sport over the past 18 months. She has already represented New Zealand at age group champs in Australia and has further championships events in Christchurch and Melbourne on her calendar.

Vilagrads success

Vilagrad Wines’ 2025 Pinot Gris has been awarded a Gold Medal at the International Wine and Spirit Competition in London. The event is regarded as one of the world’s most respected wine competitions and attracts more than 12,000 entries from over 90 countries. “To be recognised at this level places our Pinot Gris among the very best in the world,” Jacob Nooyen, winemaker and grape grower at Waipā winery, told The News.

Councils and thinking big

By Roy Pilott

A Waikato super council, for want of a better description, will inevitably be one of the options put to the Government by its August 9 deadline – but it doesn’t have to be the only one.

Waipā district councillors have decided a single Waikato unitary authority is their preferred option for further exploration. The Waikato Regional Council has taken the same view.

Ōtorohanga and Waitomo councillors held talks last week and were on the same page in terms of those districts joining forces –illustrated by a photo of the two sets of councillors and mayors John Robertson and Rodney Dow shoulder to shoulder.

But the Government’s drive for change is geared to thinking big as it maintains pressure on local bodies to

improve efficiencies and cap rates. It is anticipating proposals which see multiple councils teaming up. That’s already been achieved in Waikato where two water entities have been established.

So Waikato boundaries could cut across the region, encompass it completely – or remain open in the south where there has been a call for the inclusion of Taumarunui in any model involving northern King Country councils.

Resource Management Act Reform minister Chris Bishop and Local Government minister Simon Watts told all councils on May 5 about head starts and back stops.

‘Head Start’ is a voluntary approach where two or more councils submit an amalgamation proposal to central government. ‘Back Stop’ is a process for those

councils that don’t submit a proposal where central government will determine how amalgamation will occur.

The August 9 deadline left councils at least partially snookered in terms of public consultation – it is inevitable that many of those conversations will be held after recommendations are made.

The Waikato Mayoral Forum, led by Hamilton’s Tim Macindoe, is not scheduled to meet the district’s iwi forum before the August deadline, but it is anticipated an earlier meeting will be proposed.

The issue has not sparked wide public debate, but it’s inevitable there will be cries of foul from rural communities if they feel they are being sucked into an Auckland style super city model.

That point is not lost on Macindoe who says the

forum must look at how any plan put to the government protects the “local voice”.

He was in Ōtorohanga where the mayoral forum was hosted this week for further discussions and acknowledges a lot of work has still to be done

Waipā’s Mike Pettit said councils across the country were facing significant change and Waipā wanted to help shape the future of local government in the

Waikato rather than wait for decisions to be imposed –the ‘back stop’. His council would continue to test unitary the option against alternatives and assess the impacts.

“Decisions affecting communities need to continue to be made close to those communities. Whatever the model, representation for Waipā communities must be maintained,” he said.

140! Kihikihi rugby celebrates

By Jesse Wood

Former Black Fern Carla Hohepa said it’s very special for Kihikihi Rugby Sports Club to celebrate 140 years.

“For our family, it’s not really a club. It’s home,” Chiefs Manawa assistant coach Carla said. “We grew up watching our parents, our aunties and uncles play. It’s a place that we represent as part of our family.

The second oldest club in the Waikato, behind Pirongia (originally Alexandra) which turns 150 this year, Kihikihi will celebrate its milestone from June 5-7.

A meeting was held at the Star Hotel about the formation of the Kihikihi Football Club on Saturday, April 24, 1886. Their first match was against Cambridge Football Club at Kihikihi a month later – a nil-all draw.

Carla and younger sister Chyna represent their beloved club any chance they get.

“I have so many memories there as a child, surrounded by people who obviously weren’t my aunties and uncles by blood, but ended up becoming family,” Carla said. “When I come back, they still remember us as the little kids that used to run around the club.

Carla has represented Otago,

Waikato, Chiefs Manawa, Black Ferns Sevens and the Black Ferns. Chyna is still turning out for the Manawa and Waikato and has also been a previous Black Ferns Sevens rep.

Their parents Selwyn and Debbie have donned the Waikato kit too.

“I played one of my first women’s rugby games for Kihikihi alongside my mum, when I was still at Te Awamutu College,” Carla said. “I fondly remember that day of putting on the jersey and playing alongside my mum and my aunties. That was special.”

Other Waikato representatives Kihikihi can claim include Rapa Jackson, Bob Wynyard, Kiwi Searancke, Derek Devoy, Bill Bartie, Kiriana Nolan, Merania and Rina Paraone, Emma-Lee Heta, Manusina Samoa rep Easter Savelio and recent Black Ferns débutant Mia Anderson.

The club had a Māori All Black, Eddie Barton, in 1923 and 1935-1938

All Black Jim Wynyard who was killed in action during WWII.

“That’s a pretty special milestone to have from our small town in Te Awamutu, Kihikihi, to have players actually get to that level.” Carla said

Crete: a soldier’s account

By Viv Posselt

Fifty-five minutes on a recently discovered family tape led Te Awamutu man Richard Cato on an emotional journey of his father’s experiences in World War Two, including in the 1941 Battle of Crete.

It also added much to last Saturday’s memorial service at the Te Awamutu RSA, held to commemorate the 85th anniversary of that operation, often described as one of the most dramatic battles of the Second World War.

The well-attended event

drew RSA leaders and members from around the North Island, among them RNZRSA district president Jon Broadley, Te Awamutu and Districts RSA president Daniel van der Hulst, Cambridge RSA president Graham Johns, and Hamilton RSA president Bruce Gillespie.

The event shifted to Te Awamutu RSA following the closure of Tauranga RSA, which has held annual commemorations of the Battle of Crete for some years.

Richard gave a presentation that included playing part of the taped messages recorded

by his father Sergeant Colin Cato. He also showed images of the area, some taken decades ago and others taken by Richard and his family when they visited Crete last year. They found they matched the geographical descriptions in his father’s tape.

Sgt Cato headed No. 3 Platoon of the 27th Machine Gun Battalion of the first echelon of the Second New Zealand Expeditionary Force. He fought in North Africa, then Greece and Crete.

The Battle of Crete began on the morning of May 20, 1941, when thousands of elite German paratroopers descended from the sky in what was said to be the first mainly airborne invasion in military history. For 12 days Greek and Commonwealth troops – the latter including New Zealanders, British and Australians – tried to repel the assault. Any attack had been predicted to come from the sea, and it was close to the beach that Colin was stationed.

Richard said the cost of the battle was massive.

“More than 1700 British, Commonwealth and Greek soldiers were killed, and 15,000 captured. There were 670 New Zealanders among

the dead, and 2180 Kiwi prisoners of war – that is in addition to the 1800 captured after the campaign ended in Greece,” he said. “More than 6000 Germans were killed or wounded and the German Airforce lost more than 350 aircraft.”

Among the Kiwis evacuated was Charles Upham and Alfred Hulme, both of whom won the Victoria Cross for their actions on Crete.

Once back in New Zealand, Colin was among 25 men who were selected to train troops at Trentham for an anticipated Japanese invasion. He later returned to farming in the Te Kuiti area, from where he originally enlisted.

Three years before he died in 1976, Colin recorded his wartime memories. When Richard acquired the old tapes his father had made, he found one of them hadn’t been restored because it began with music. Once it was processed, he found it contained his father’s accounts of his time in Greece and Crete.

In it, Colin said … “the sky behind me became black with planes coming from all directions … then the planes opened and the sky was full of parachutes. There were men dropping everywhere”.

Officiating Saturday’s

service was Cambridge’s Jim Goddin. He said, “as the years pass it has become more important that we gather like this to remember those who served”.

Down from Auckland for the event was Brian How, president of the 28 NZ (Māori) Battalion Auckland Association, and Papakura resident Kei Mitchell, who at 94 is believed to be among

the last surviving widows connected to the 28th Māori Battalion.

Among those who attended was Taranaki-King Country MP Barbara Kuriger. She told The News she visited Crete with several other politicians several years ago, and was struck by accounts from older villagers who remembered the invasion and remain grateful to the Kiwi soldiers.

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ON SHAKY GROUND

Pressure under water

By Janine Krippner

Submarine eruptions – eruptions that occur below our oceans – are fascinating.

Volcanology has been learning a lot more about them in the past decade or so, but there is still so much we don’t know. This is an exciting area of research.

We do observe eruptions as they approach the surface and begin ejecting wet plumes of volcanic ash and steam, known as Surtseyan eruptions. However, very few eruptions in deeper water have been directly witnessed or recorded.

As of 2025, only 209 submarine eruptions have been directly observed in some way and another 136 have been detected remotely. That is a tiny fraction of what we have seen on land, and we cannot collect the same amount of data to understand them. This also means that when a submarine eruption is observed, it is incredibly valuable.

About 71 per cent of our gorgeous planet is covered by oceans, and volcanic landforms are abundant. There are many thousands of volcanic cones scattered across our seafloor. The majority of activity is “effusive”, meaning lava flows erupt from and spread outward from a vent.

“Explosive” activity does occur, but it is different to explosive volcanism on land. In the ocean, eruptions occur under pressure because of the enormous weight of water. On land, the rapid expansion of gas drives explosive eruptions, blowing apart or fragmenting rock into volcanic ash. Because of the increasing pressure as you add more water above a volcano, when the water is deeper, how the volcano erupts changes.

People out at sea sometimes see signs

of volcanic activity that include floating pumice, the smell of sulphur, or muddylooking water. Seismic networks can detect shaking that is involved in eruptions on the sea floor. Sometimes, scientific research expeditions have been lucky enough to come across recent volcanic activity when cameras or submersibles are sent down below. Sadly, one sign of activity is the death of the incredible creatures that live on the seafloor and thrive around hot volcanic vents.

While most submarine eruptions occur without us having any idea, they can still pose a hazard. Critical submarine infrastructure, including internet cables, cross volcanic regions and can be damaged. We saw this happen with the 2022 Hunga Tonga–Hunga Ha’apai eruption. Much of society relies on internet cables, and most of that travels below oceans.

When growing volcanic cones reach the ocean surface, eruptions can become highly explosive. If this occurs near populations, steam-rich pyroclastic flows can travel across the water and impact communities. If an eruption releases large volumes of gas bubbles into the water column, it can lower the density of the surrounding water. If an unlucky boat travels over that spot, it can sink.

We also rely on global shipping and marine transport, and we do not have a global monitoring and warning network like we do for volcanic ash and aviation. Submarine eruptions are scientifically fascinating, and it is also critical to understand them from a hazards and impacts perspective.

Unexpected events

By Phil Strong, Retired Minister

I vividly remember the last time I was T-boned in a car. The crunch of metal on metal, smashed headlights scattering with a sound like sprinkling rain, and the screech of tyres pushed laterally across the tarmac. More than 30 years later, the memory is vivid.

Unexpected unfortunate unfoldings unsettle us with lasting impact. And what shakes me shapes me. Life throws curve balls, living with others often causes a T-bone incident, and the environment we share causes chaos unending and insurmountable. Survive, we must; and survive, we do.

If you told me a few years ago beef mince would surpass $30 a kilo, I would have laughed.

Now, I cry. In our household, we think twice before taking long, leisurely Sunday drives. Entertainment is expensive and so is existing.

Perspective is what determines how we manage our emotions and mindfulness in these kind of times. I find comfort in the words of Jesus - I guess I’m fortunate that He speaks with me every day.

Last week He spoke to me (from page 1134) and said, “Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground outside your Father’s care. And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. So don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.”

So many of the stories in the Bible remind me of a Sovereign, caring, everpresent Father who oversees our lives with intentional love and goodwill.

David was chosen as a young boy to replace the King; and then suffered under

false accusation, threat, rejection, and ridicule while waiting for his God to move in line with His promises. Songs written in these times encourage me often. Joseph was sold into slavery by his brothers, falsely accused by his employer’s wife, and forgotten in a prison.

This man later reconciled with his brothers saying, “What you intended for harm, God Almighty used for good.”

That’s the patient wisdom of a man who places his resolute confidence in a higher power.

Jesus was misunderstood, misrepresented and misaligned with His followers. They, in their naivety, argued and jockeyed for Him to miss the purposes of God in His story, seeking to avoid the impending death that would appear to be a shipwreck and yet be revealed to deliver salvation to all.

Stuff happens. And when it does, I find the best focus to be one that delivers me into peace.

Looking at my surroundings, listening to the noise, empowering the emotionnone of these give me the confidence I gain by turning and leaning into the words of scripture.

David wrote a song of praise to honour God. In it, he describes the purposes of God in Joseph’s story as being one of refinement and proving; meaning testing and cleansing for divine order to be revealed.

Circumstances may reveal who we are in the midst of unsettling times. Those circumstances invite us into deeper connection with God’s purpose in us and through us.

PICK UP LOCATIONS

Born and raised in Te Awamutu, Shane Walsh has always felt a strong connection to the community he now represents around the Council table

After leaving town in his early 20s to build a successful corporate career, Shane returned home wanting to give back to the community that helped shape him

Before being elected as a Te Awamutu and Kihikihi Ward Councillor and appointed to the Community Board, he was heavily involved in local organisations, serving as Chief Executive of the Te Awamutu Business Chamber, Chair of the Waipā Community Facilities Trust, and Chair of Destination Te Awamutu

Those roles gave him regular interaction with Council and insight into the issues people were most concerned about

A lot of people felt Council was becoming disconnected from ratepayers, particularly around costs,” Shane said “I wanted to help better align Council with the concerns of the community and ensure we’re delivering outcomes in the most affordable way possible ”

Shane’s Masters in Business Management and Administration, and strong business background, has helped him navigate the strong governance and financial side to the role

He has been impressed by the shared commitment among councillors to make a positive difference

“There’s a genuine desire around the table to improve things for the district We re a mixed group with different opinions, but that actually makes for a stronger and more diverse team ”

While Shane knows meaningful change in local government takes time, he is focused on creating momentum

“There’s no expectation that you can suddenly fix everything

ā's water services on track for July transfer overnight,” he said “But you can get the wheels moving in the right direction

He believes most ratepayers understand the financial pressures councils are facing

“There will always be external challenges that come up, things like fuel costs or economic pressures - so you focus on what you can control and keep making steady progress ”

Passionate about helping Te Awamutu thrive, Shane is particularly interested in projects that make the town more vibrant while also benefiting the wider Waipā district

One initiative he supports is the proposed Pirongia to Te Awamutu cycleway

“It ’s a project that delivers on multiple levels,” he said “It supports tourism, recreation, wellbeing and the local economy, while also creating stronger community connections ”

Outside Council, Shane has two sons, a daughter, and three grandchildren He enjoys hosting friends and family, walking his dog, and taking part in a men’s book club

What he values most about Waipā is its strong sense of community

“The cafes, local stores, the library, the pools - those shared spaces are what make Te Awamutu special,” he said “They add real value to people s lives and create a sense of connection ”

Looking ahead, Shane is focused on strengthening the relationship between Council and the community

“I want people to feel heard and know Council is listening,” he said If we can continue building that trust and making practical progress, then we’re heading in the right direction ”

Waipā District Council is on track to transfer its water and wastewater services to Waikato Waters Limited on July 1

Waikato Waters is a council-controlled organisation owned by six Waikato councils, including Waipā Bringing water services together across the region means better long-term planning, stronger investment, and more resilient infrastructure for communities like ours

For Waipā residents, day-to-day services will stay the same - water will keep running, and billing and customer contact remain with Council for now Stormwater is staying with Waipā District Council for 2026/27 Behind the scenes, Waikato Waters will take over management of drinking water and wastewater pipes, treatment plants and long-term planning

A total of 48 Waipā staff will transfer to Waikato Waters as part of the change, taking their local knowledge with them

More information is available at letstalk waipadc govt nz/waikato-waterslimited

King’s Birthday – what you need to know!

Recycling collections will continue as usual on King's Birthday, Monday, June 1

Our two libraries and Council offices in Te Awamutu and Cambridge along with our Te Whare Taonga o Te Awamutu Museum will be closed for the day

Racing leader resigns

Waikato Thoroughbred Racing chief executive Andrew ‘Butch’ Castles will retire from his role for health reasons after a six-year tenure with the club. His last day will be June 30. Castles played an instrumental role in the successful merger of Waikato, Cambridge and Waipā racing clubs to form Waikato Thoroughbred Racing, helping create a unified organisation positioned to future-proof the region’s racing infrastructure, assets and long-term viability.

Get Gardening

Winter gardens don't have to be dull! There's so many options for flower lovers to choose from. Plant winter colour like cyclamen, calendula, bellis, polyanthus, stock, primula, pansies, violas, poppies, snapdragons, cineraria and sweet peas. Winter roses (hellebores) are super hardy, easy to grow plants that will reward you with vibrant flowers from Winter to early Spring and come in a range of gorgeous colours. Camellias and azaleas are available and starting to bloom. If you wish to get an early crop of potatoes in, we have a good selection. At this time of year they are best grown in grow bags or containers for warmth. Allow them to sprout and remember once planted to keep the green shoots covered to protect them from frosts.

Happy gardening!

Waipā premier sides win

By Jesse Wood

The Waipā sides in Waikato Club Rugby continued their strong seasons last weekend. Unbeaten teams still are Leamington in division 1A and Pirongia in division 1B. Pirongia division 1A and 1B teams had a bye week as they prepare for their King’s Birthday weekend 150th anniversary celebrations.

Hautapu, second in the premier men’s competition beat Fraser tech 65-12 in Hamilton. Player of the day Dylan Eti scored two tries. Konelio Burgess, Nathan Stephens and Rui Farrant were the other scorers. Fullback Patrick Hedley added two conversions.

Te Awamutu Sports beat Morrinsville Sports 29-14 at Albert Park. Front-rower Albert Nadan was among the try scorers in the four tries to two victory.

Hamilton Marist, 45-13 winners over Matamata remain top of the premier A table – but Hautapu, three points behind, have a game in hand.

First-placed premier B side Hautapu B won 43-26 against Tech B. Impressive winger Josh Brunger helped himself to three tries. Ihaka Harper-Dent, hooker Rory Blyth and Maraekaiti Nepia also crossed the line. Halfback

Callum Beckett slotted five conversions and a penalty.

Te Awamutu Sports premier development won 45-26 against Morrinsville B. Sports right winger Alexander Creak scored a hat-trick, while Ben Mylchreest, Keiton MacDonald, Dylan Jeffries and first five-eighth George Poolman also crossed. Poolman added five conversions.

Te Awamutu College alumnus Brad Magon was one of Morrinsville B’s scorers.

The women’s premiership clash between Mel-tap (Melville-Hautapu combined) and Ōtorohanga saw the home side win 26-5 at Collins Road. It was a four tries to one victory and Mel-tap fullback Keira Russell scored 11 of her team’s points.

Division 1A table toppers Leamington won 28-19 against Southern United in Tokoroa. Number 12 Jackson Neels crossed for two tries in South Waikato and Hirini Murfitt grabbed Leamington’s third.

A penalty try and three Robert Day penalties rounded out the scoring for the visitors.

As they celebrated Liam Palaone’s 100th match, Ōhaupō were pipped 28-24 by Hinuera at Ōhaupō Memorial Park. For the second week in a row, only backs scored for

Ōhaupō.

The explosive Lance Elrick, Scott Thomas, Italia Tualaulelei and Queyst Michael-Tapu all got tries.

Pivot Dean Fullerton added two conversions.

In division 1B, Ōhaupō B won 22-12 against Hinuera B with help from an early Ben Parrott double. Prop Stephen Rogers scored the third Ōhaupō B try. First five-eighth Dane Murphy added two conversions and a penalty off the tee.

Leamington B lost 39-21 to Southern United B. Matthew Bullock was one of the three Leamington B try scorers, while Chevy Blue scored 21 points for Southern United B.

In the women’s championship, Kihikihi won 54-17 against Pirongia at Kihikihi Domain. Valentine Tevita registered four tries for the home team, while Charlize Waters got a double. Rinoa Day slotted seven conversions.

Fullback Sarah Moorhouse, openside flanker Georgia Packer and midfielder Emma Foss scored tries for the Pirongia women, while Amanda Laing kicked a twopointer.

In the under-21 division, Te Awamutu Sports took on fellow Waipā colts side Leamington at Albert Park. The home team won 39-32.

Sports’ Ryan Baillie and Kiarn Collett scored doubles in front of home fans, as did Leamington’s Dayton Henare. An extra try and conversion were the difference. Pirongia lost 36-24 to Thames Valley United in Paeroa. Sam Denize, halfback Connor Hill and Blake Buchanan were among the Pirongia colts’ scorers. In the presidents grade, Pirongia Mountain Men beat Te Awamutu Marist Bushpigs 24-10 at Castleton Park. Kihikihi Stallions beat Leamington Loonies by default.

Positioned in the sought-after Frontier Estate subdivision, this newly built home delivers style, comfort, and quality craftsmanship throughout. Cedar and Hinuera stone create a timeless exterior, while inside, the Hamptons-style kitchen with dual ovens, quality appliances, and a generous scullery forms the heart of the home. Open-plan living flows effortlessly to expansive decking, capturing elevated rural views across Pirongia Mountain and the Te Awamutu surrounds. The master suite features a tiled ensuite and walk-in wardrobe, while additional bedrooms, a stylish family bathroom, and a separate office provide flexibility for modern living. Originally built as the owners’ forever home, this is a rare opportunity to secure a home that feels every bit like a show home, without the wait of building.

Across 1. School subject (5) 4. Irritable (colloq) (6)

7. Vehicle (3)

8.

(6) 9.

(6)

10. Securities market (5,8)

14. Terrible (5) 15. Quilt (5)

18. Vertical (13) 23.

Last week

Across: 1. Trivia, 5. Stress, 8. Din, 9. Banana, 10. Ordeal, 11. Bite, 13. Intended, 14. Syrup, 15. Pagan, 19. Remember, 21. Thaw, 22. Parade, 23. Tedium, 25. Spa, 26. Status, 27. Low-key. Down: 2. Readily, 3. Via, 4. Adagio, 5. Snooty, 6. Redundant, 7. Scale, 12. Exuberant, 16. As a rule, 17. Obsess, 18. Brutal, 20. Exalt, 24. Dew.

QUIXOPPRZEWILEURTS HESTIREBITGBEQDHHE CZOEDANUBEEUOIHOAW WPYGGMISSOURITBNMF ONSENNQOEEXUOCQEEW LWPOSOADVDARLINGSD LKAKWRCGEYCMURRAYR ERAWALEDRLCOLORADO YANGTZEMNCAZAMBEZI

AMAZON

ARNO

CLYDE COLORADO CONGO

DANUBE

DARLING

DELAWARE ELBE

EUPHRATES FORTH GANGES

ENJOY THE THINGS YOU LOVE

INDUS

LOIRE

MEKONG MERSEY

MISSISSIPPI

MISSOURI

MOSELLE

MURRAY

NIGER

NILE

ODER

OHIO

ORINOCO POTOMAC

RHINE

RHONE RIO GRANDE

RUBICON

SEINE

SEVERN

THAMES

TIBER

TIGRIS

VISTULA

VOLGA WESER YANGTZE YELLOW YUKON ZAMBEZI

•

FOR SALE - Jack Russell

Foxy pups, parvo vaxs, 9 weeks old, $800 each. Ph 021 107 1967

FOR SALE – Weaner Pigs –

Large white $170.00. Email: cranleigh@farm.org.nz or txt 02474762579

PIRONGIA MARKET

Pirongia Community Centre, Crozier St Sunday, May 31 9am - 1pm

Last Sunday of every month

Email jim1@xtra.co.nz or ph Jim 027 366 5842

TE AWAMUTU CONTINUING EDUCATION

Wednesday 3rd June 2026 10am

Entry: $4 on arrival Waipa Workingmen’s Club

Speaker: Medical Professional Topic: Healthy advice for Seniors.

Everybody Welcome More info phone 07 870 3223

RATES REMINDERS:

REMINDER TO RATEPAYERS: If you have a balance remaining as of 27 February 2026, your rates are considered overdue.

If you are making regular payments by Automatic Payment, Direct Debit, or under a payment arrangement, please ensure any outstanding balance is cleared by 29 May 2026 to avoid late penalty fees.

REMINDER TO WATER RATEPAYERS:

Water rates are due on 29 May 2026.

If you are making regular payments by Automatic Payment or Direct Debit, please ensure any outstanding balance is cleared by 29 May 2026.

Please contact the Rates O cer on 07 873 4360 if you have any queries.

Pursuant to Section28 of the

is hereby

Government (Rating) Act 2002

that the

Between hours of 9.00am and 5.00pm Monday to Friday. The Rating Information Database records all information required for setting and assessing rates.

NOTICE OF TEMPORARY ROAD CLOSURE

Schedule 10, Local Government Act 1974.

Waipā District Council will close the following road(s) at the following period(s) to ordinary vehicular traffic for Fieldays 2026:

Dates: Wednesday, 10 June to Saturday, 13 June 2026

Road Closures (5:45am to 11:00am and 1:00pm to 8:00pm):

• Mystery Creek Road – from Mystery Creek Events Centre Gate 2 to Mellow Road

• Mystery Creek Road – from Mellow Road to McEldownie Road

• McEldownie Road – from Kaipaki Road to Mystery Creek Road

• Mellow Road – full length

Road Closure (5:45am to 11:00am only):

• Raynes Road (eastbound lane only) - from Sharpe Road to Airport Road (SH21)

There will be no detours in place during the temporary road closure. Access for emergency vehicles will be permitted in the event of an emergency.

Steph O’Sullivan Chief Executive

Noel HARPER

Died June 1, 2025

In loving memory of a wonderful husband to his loving wife Lynne and loving brother of sister Joy. Uncle to Grant, Jeff, Dean and families.

CHURCH SERVICES 10am 31st May

Rev Clive Thomson

All Welcome

WESTGATE, Gaynor Jean – Passed away suddenly on 18th May 2026, aged 74 years. Dearly loved wife of the late Garth Westgate. Much-loved mother/motherin-law of Ross and Janine, Kelly and Carl. Cherished Nana to Eva, Leo, Mia and Mylee. A memorial service to celebrate Gaynor's life will be held at Te Awamutu Funeral Services on Tuesday 2nd June 2026 at 11am. Family and friends are warmly invited to attend. Following the service, we will gather for refreshments and sharing memories.

Expression of interest - 4-bedroom house, double car shed, semi selfcontained outside room. Would suit couple looking after aged parent. Country living Paterangi area. Lake view, professional personal only $900.00 per week. Email; cranleigh@farm.org. nz