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THE SPREAD OF BUTTER Open Country Dairy opens a $50 million plant in Wahāroa. Page 3

JANUARY 2026

SCHOOL ZONES

The right side of the street can make all the difference. Page 5

BUILDING A LEGACY

OUT AND ABOUT

Olympic gold medallist Rob Waddell on his passion. Page 9

We were here and there last month, were you? Pages 10-11

Close encounters

It may look alien, but a Hamilton‑built simulator is set to transform pilot training in Thailand. Senior writer Mary Anne Gill goes for a flight.

t looks like a UFO parked in an industrial unit on Ossie James Drive in Hamilton Airport’s Titanium Park. Within the fibreglass shell sits a Hawker 800XP cockpit so authentic that even the seats are salvaged from the original aircraft. This is Integrated Simulators’ (iSim) latest creation: a full motion flight simulator, designed and built in Hamilton for export overseas. Founder Oleg Roud, who moved to New Zealand from Namibia in 2017, calls it a milestone for both iSim and New Zealand’s engineering sector. “To my knowledge, this level of simulator has not yet been made in either New Zealand or Australia,” he says. iSim Ltd specialises in tailor‑made simulators for general aviation aircraft Hawkers, Cessnas, and helicopters - rather than large airliners. Past projects include a mobile simulator for Westpac Trust, housed in a trailer that tours the country, and bespoke builds for clients in Fiji, Africa, and Europe. The company’s latest commission is for a Thai aviation training provider. Roud explains that each simulator begins with meticulous data capture. “We fly with pilots using special equipment to record how the aircraft behaves. We gather documentation, talk to pilots about how they operate, and then design and manufacture everything ourselves.” The Hamilton workshop is home to a diverse group of people. Roud, married to fellow company director Irina, is a former 747 pilot who got sick of staying in hotel rooms between flights. He founded the simulator company and set up shop inside the Hamilton Airport Terminal. He had to move out last year when the airport company needed the space for its international flights. The workshop team spans Waikato to Serbia: software engineer Vince Lamont (Tokoroa), electrical engineer Campbell Shepherd (Mt Maunganui), Serbian coder Alex Samoilov, and logistics specialist Ashton Homewood, a former Hillcrest High student. Together they design hardware, write software, and assemble components made both locally - by firms such as Colin Engineering in Te Aroha – and overseas. “We rely on local suppliers for most of the parts,” says Roud.

Vince Lamont pilots the simulator into Auckland Airport. Inset: The fibreglass simulator in the workshop.

“They don’t always know what they’re making - just pieces of metal or fibreglass but we turn them into a simulator.” The company moved a year ago into a small unit in Ossie James Drive - named after the Waikato aviation pioneer who launched the aerial topdressing industry in the 1940s. The News had a test flight in the simulator. Getting into the seat is just as tough as getting into a normal aircraft, Roud says. Even buckling in created some issues:

what buttons to touch and not to touch! Our flight was out of Auckland. Videos can replicate any airport in the world, right down to the surrounding vegetation, rivers, lakes, sea and buildings. The bumpiness was real too – hydraulic technology moves the simulator and the brain does the rest. Simulators are not the only tool for pilots but they have increasingly become important to practice for emergencies and maintain

Photo: Mary Anne Gill

skills. They are cost effective too. Crashing a simulator is a lot cheaper than an actual plane in the event of an engine failure. Packed and ready for shipment to Thailand, the Hamilton‑made simulator signals not just a breakthrough for iSim, but proof that Kiwi engineering can compete on the world stage. What began as a flying saucer in a hangar is now bound for Thailand - proof that Kiwi engineering can take on the world.

The iSim team in front of the simulator, from left Vince Lamont, Oleg Roud, Campbell Shepherd, Alex Samoilov and Ashton Homewood. Photo: Mary Anne Gill

JANUARY 2026

Community champions celebrated

From courts to classrooms, farms to playing fields, Waikato figures earn national recognition in the New Year’s Honours List, reports senior writer Mary Anne Gill. Judge Coral Shaw, who chaired what became the largest and most expensive inquiry in New Zealand’s history, has been made a Dame in the New Year’s Honours List. Shaw, who lives in Pirongia, was honoured for her services to public service, the judiciary and the community. She chaired the Royal Commission of Inquiry into historical abuse in state care and in the care of faith-based institutions from 2019 to last year when it produced 139 recommendations. She spoke to The News last year of being ‘haunted’ still by the face of a young woman who brought to the then new lawyer her own harrowing story of abuse in state care. Dame Coral reached out for information but couldn’t trace anything on the woman. The case faded away. It was her first brush with the mechanisms put in place to hide information and shield the perpetrators. Ohinewai farmer Neil Bateup became a Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit (CNZM) to go with the Order of Merit he was awarded in 2018 for his services to the retail sector.

Among his contributions was work providing support for farmers through a number of adverse events from natural disasters to mycoplasma bovis, Covid and Cyclone Gabrielle. He has helped ensure farmers and growers nationwide have a dedicated, confidential and effective support network. Waikato University professor Tom Roa has also received a CNZM for his services to Māori language and education. His contributions to Kaupapa Māori research, education governance and tikangabased practice have helped institutions engage more meaningfully under Te Tiriti o Waitangi. He has been on the Māori Heritage Council, the New Zealand Māori Tourism Board, and is a principal investigator with Ngā Pae o te Māramatanga and Te Pūnaha Matatini. Morrinsville farmer Lloyd Downing becomes an officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit (ONZM) after his voluntary leadership and governance roles with Waikato agricultural organisations. During his time as Fieldays president he facilitated the creation

Tom Roa

Neil Bateup

Coral Shaw

Kevin Burgess

of what is now the New Zealand Business Centre which has resulted in international delegations to and from New Zealand. Hamilton’s Tony Egan become an ONZM for his services to the agricultural industry and the community. He established the Greenlea Foundation Trust which supports many Waikato charities and helped advance research into Parkinson’s Disease at the Centre for Brain Research. Cambridge high performance director Judith Hamilton is an ONZM for her services to rowing. Under her leadership, the Tokyo Olympic Games were Rowing New Zealand’s most successful Olympics ever,

establishing the country as the world’s top ranking rowing nation. Sports hall of famer, Putāruru’s Lorraine Moller has an ONZM for her services to athletics. She has collaborated with Kids Marathon Foundation to enhance children’s fitness. Kevin Burgess' long-term contribution to the Cambridge community has included business development, district promotion, affordable retirement community funding, strategic community investment, sports clubs, supporting athletes at all levels, assisting youth and philanthropic support. The now retired pharmacist becomes a Member of the New Zealand Order or Merit

(MNZM) for his services to governance, the community and sport. Gaye Poole of Hamilton has contributed to the arts sector in Waikato for more than 20 years and also becomes an MNZM for her services to performing arts and education. Until 2019, she mentored young creatives as part of Waikato University’s prestigious Sir Edmund Hillary Scholarship Programme. Hamilton Justice of the Peace Ravinder Singh was a driving force behind the establishment of New Zealand’s first Sikh Temple in the city and has served in several roles in the New Zealand Sikh Society. He has an MNZM for his services

to ethnic communities. He has worked with Massey University’s religion department to compile information and holy scriptures on Sikhism. Hamilton disability advocate Helen Tuteao, who co-authored the chapter ‘Decolonizing Disability: Indigenous Māori Perspectives of Disability Research in the Modern Era’ in the ‘Springer Handbook of Disability’, has an MNZM for her services to people with disabilities and Māori. Four years ago, she was on the Community Steering Group which helped to establish the Ministry of Disabled People, later joining the Ministry’s Insights Alliance.

OUR ENVIRONMENT

Realising a legacy

I’m excited about the opening of the new Waikato Regional Theatre, though I confess much of the publicity about the opening and upcoming events has largely passed me by. What I’m more excited about is the idea that such a significant legacy project is about to be realised in the Waikato. This is a transformational investment in the Hamilton central city. Along with other developments in recent years, this could be the key that unlocks a vibrant new era for the ‘south end’ downtown precinct. Projects like this are not easy to get across the line, particularly when the investment of public money is required, so I take my hat off to all of those who’ve been involved in making the theatre happen. We, the general public, are chronically shortsighted in our consideration of the costs and benefits of legacy projects. Famously, many Parisians were opposed to the construction of the now iconic Eiffel Tower:

By PHIL MACKAY

“We have come, writers, painters, sculptors, architects, passionate enthusiasts of the hitherto untouched beauty of Paris, to protest with all our strength, all our indignation, in the name of the unknown French taste, in the name of art and of French history threatened, against the erection, in the heart of our capital, of the useless and monstrous Eiffel Tower…” - Protest Against the Tower of Monsieur Eiffel’ February 14, 1878. Yet it now attracts nearly seven million visitors per year and is valued at around $US500 billion for its brand, tourism and economic impact. I also recall a great deal of fuss was made of the mere $1 million that Waipā District Council invested in the velodrome in Cambridge, alongside a still modest $6 million from Waikato Regional Council. I don’t imagine it’s the kind of thing that our current government would consider ‘core-business’ for a council, yet it has created great public value and therefore good return on investment for Cambridge. The velodrome is well-used by locals and community groups,

as well as high-performance sports and athletes. Together with Lake Karāpiro and the likes of St Peter’s School, it has attracted a significant number of elite and aspiring athletes and their families, and created jobs for support staff and aligned businesses. This has gone a long way towards balancing Cambridge’s ageing demographic, and increased demand for housing. I suggest there is a great opportunity for students at another of our institutions, the University of Waikato, to study the economic impact of legacy projects such as the Waikato Regional Theatre and Grassroots Trust Velodrome. Given the value generated for local businesses and communities from legacy projects such as these, it is incredibly frustrating that new government procurement rules essentially prohibit any publicly-funded projects from being entered in industry awards. Whatever happened to celebrating aspiration and excellence? • Phil Mackay is Business Development manager at Hamiltonbased PAUA, Procuta Associates Urban + Architecture.

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JANUARY 2026

Briefs… Foster build Foster Construction (Fosters) has been appointed to lead construction of Waikato University’s fourstorey teaching and learning Medical School building, which has been designed by architects Chow Hill. The build will employ an estimated 200 people across the Fosters team and other local subcontractors, consultants and suppliers during its two years under construction.

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

Pitts in charge Warwick Pitts has been appointed the new chief executive at Wintec and a governance board, chaired by Sheree Ryan, confirmed for the organisation which is now an independent entity as part of the disestablishment of Te Pūkenga. The other board members are Sarah MortonJohnson, Ken Williamson and Edgar Wilson.

The spread of butter Open Country Dairy’s new $50m Waikato butter plant underscores confidence in farmers, exporters and the community. Senior writer Mary Anne Gill reports from Wahāroa.

ew Zealand butter is strengthening its place on the world stage and Waikato farmers are at the heart of it. Open Country Dairy has cut the ribbon on a $50 million butter plant in Wahāroa, a bold bet on global demand and local capability. It sits alongside another one the company operates in the town which processes powder, cheese, whey protein and fat production and creates a strong protein-fat mix, says chief executive Mark de Latour. The investment positions New Zealand milk firmly on the world stage, reinforcing the country’s reputation as a premium dairy producer. Yet chair Laurie Margrain says Open Country faces challenges with European Union quotas restricting butter exports and ruling out adding more customers. “We’ve invested $50 million in this plant, but we’re locked out of Europe for the next few years,” he says. Butter exports are headed to the United States, where giant retailer Costco is among the customers with its influential Kirkland brand

Open Country Dairy chief executive Mark de Latour, left, with chair Laurie Margrain in front of suppliers and guests at the butter plant opening. Photo: Mary Anne Gill

promoting ‘Grass-Fed Butter’. De Latour says the investment in the butter plant is about longterm security. “This isn’t a five-year investment, it’s 50 years. It should give farmers confidence we can deliver the best returns for their milk.” Since 2004, Talley family-owned Open Country has grown into New Zealand’s second-largest milk processor. Margrain acknowledged the company’s 1250 farmer suppliers at the opening last month. “Without your milk, we’d be nothing,” noting Wahāroa farmers Cliff and June Hazelton were among the first to join Open Country 21 years ago. The couple, who have been married for 66 years, own two Wahāroa dairy farms and have now

moved into Matamata. De Latour emphasised flexibility as key to keeping milk value high. “Protein, fat, butter - we’ve got options, and that’s what gives farmers confidence.” Locally, the project has injected millions into the community through trades, contractors, and ongoing maintenance. “Most of our people are employed from around here, and we keep sparkies, builders, and engineers busy all year,” Margrain says. For Wahāroa, the plant is more than an industrial milestone. “Communities like Waikato have been unfairly criticised over dairying,” de Latour says. “In reality, we are the best farmers in the world, with the lowest carbon footprint. That’s something New Zealanders should celebrate.”

Costco-branded Kirkland Grass-Fed butter rolls off the production line at Wahāroa.

Photo: Mary Anne Gill

54, and counting Woolworths Anglesea Street team member Maree McRobbie, 70, has no plans to retire after working for the supermarket’s various companies since 1972. She first started on the checkouts at SuperValue in Bridge Street which then became Woolworths, Big Fresh, Countdown and back to Woolworths. She currently works as an online supervisor four days a week and is one of four in New Zealand who have worked for more than 50 years for the company.

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Matamata-Piako Mayor Ash Tanner called the opening “a vote of confidence in our district, in our farmers, and in the future of New Zealand dairy,” praising Open Country’s support for local projects including the upcoming community stadium in Matamata. The plant created up to 30 additional jobs. Open Country positions itself not as a rival to Fonterra but as an alternative. “Our role is to provide choice. That’s healthy for the industry,” de Latour says. Margrain agreed competition has lifted standards. “As we’ve done well, they have to do better. As they do better, we have to keep doing better. That’s competition.” Future expansion could focus on Southland, where flat sheep country offers potential for dairy conversion. De Latour says proposed changes to the Resource Management Act have made the prospect of sustainable growth easier. “Suppliers are number one. Without farmers, you have nothing. They are the cornerstone of what we do,” Margrain says, a reminder that at the heart of global growth is local milk. The butter plant is more than steel and machinery – it’s a $50 million vote of confidence in locals and a reminder that Waikato dairy farmers and exporters still shape the world. • See: Butter plant opens, page 10

JANUARY 2026

ADVERTORIAL

Looking back at the 2025 immigration year – and what lies ahead for 2026

mmigration policy has always been a key driver of New Zealand’s economy and workforce. The 2025 year was particularly transformative, with sweeping changes across work, investor, student, and family visa categories, all against the backdrop of a sharp decline in net migration. Key Policy Changes in 2025 • Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV): The removal of the median wage threshold marked a major shift. Employers must now pay AEWV holders at the appropriate market rate for their role. Another important development is the phased introduction of the New Occupation List (NOL), which will replace ANZSCO as the basis for job classification and assessment. • Active Investor Plus Visa (AIP): April saw a complete overhaul of the AIP visa. Two new categories were introduced: Growth Category – $5 million investment for 3 years; Balanced Category – $10 million investment for 5 years. English language requirements were removed, and the time in NZ reduced. These changes have been highly successful, attracting over 450 applicants who have committed $2.7 billion in investment funds - with 80% of applicants opting for the Growth Category. • Digital Nomad & Visitor Visas: Visitor visa and NZeTA holders can now legally work remotely for offshore employers while holidaying in New Zealand—a commonsense change that legitimizes existing practices and supports the growing ‘digital nomad’ market. • Student Visas: Most international tertiary students can now work up to 25 hours per week during term time (up from 20) and full-time during breaks. • Parent Boost Visa: Introduced in September, this long-stay visitor visa allows parents of NZ citizens and residents to stay for up to five years, and is renewable for another five years. Key requirements include sponsorship, health insurance, and financial support. The high cost of health insurance will remain a challenge. • Business Investor Visa (BIV): Launched in November, the BIV replaces the long-troubled Entrepreneur visa. It enables experienced business migrants to purchase well-established

PEOPLE & CULTURE

Employer buy-in the key By PAUL JARVIE

NZ businesses for at least $1 million (excluding any real estate). The BIV can provide succession options for aging business owners. • Skilled Migrant Category (SMC): From August 2026, two new residence pathways will be introduced: Skilled Work Experience Pathway and Trades & Technician Pathway. Changes to SMC points settings, particularly for NZ qualifications, will attract more international students. • Seasonal Worker Visas: Two new visas - the Global Workforce Seasonal Visa (up to 9 months annually for 3 years), and the Peak Season Visa (up to 7 months), now better align with industry needs, and have been well received by employers. 2025 also saw a sharp drop in net migration with a gain of just 11,900 people in the year to October, down from 35,400 the previous year, and well below the record 135,700 in 2023. Strong international student numbers, and the expected economic turnaround, suggest that net migration may have “bottomed” but is likely to remain at present levels. What to expect in 2026? • AEWV Maximum Continuous Stay (MCS) rules will start to bite. Migrant workers can hold an AEWV for 3 or 5 years (depending on their role) before they must change their visa or leave NZ for 12 months. • SMC reforms mid-year will simplify residence pathways for skilled workers, tradespeople, and technicians. • The AIP investor visa will need enhanced investment solutions if it is to retain its current level of demand. • The General Election – for the main political parties, immigration is unlikely to be a significant election issue, as they appear to be largely aligned on all the main visa policies. Immigration remains a defining issue for New Zealand’s economy and workforce, and while 2025 saw significant policy changes, we are expecting 2026 to be more about “fine-tuning” existing policies. For Waikato businesses, staying informed and planning your visa requirements wellahead of time, should remain your key focus – as always!

The manufacturing sector has one of the highest rates of work-related harm in the country. Yet the 2025 Workforce Insights Programme survey, released in late October, revealed a sector that is maturing, learning and adapting. As we begin this new year, these hard-won improvements must be maintained, but there is cause for optimism and some congratulations. The sector has listened and acted. The WorkSafe survey data confirm that health and safety culture has shifted from compliance to commitment. More than twothirds of employers say they have a high level of maturity in understanding their responsibilities, and almost three-quarters believe they fully understand the risks their people face. Leadership is becoming more authentic, with 95% of employers encouraging staff to speak up and three-quarters maintaining regular safety conversations through toolbox talks, team meetings and health and safety representatives. The report highlights solid progress in addressing long-standing risks. Musculoskeletal injuries remain the most common form of harm, but 91% of manufacturers now provide manual handling training, 54% vary tasks to reduce repetition and 45% provide lifting aids. Machine guarding, once a weakness, has also improved, with 82% fitting physical guards, 66% ensuring clear machine controls and more than half installing emergency stop devices. Sixty percent have upgraded PPE and 53% have changed work practices. Manufacturing represents about 10% of the national workforce but around 15% of all workplace injury claims. While the injury rate remains too high, the data show a sector moving in the right direction.

According to WorkSafe’s Bayesian Insights for Manufacturing, the strongest driver of improvement is employer belief. Employers who understand their responsibilities and see safety as a business benefit are far more likely to invest in effective measures. In manufacturing, 68% of employers now hold this mature understanding of their obligations, though only 51% strongly believe safety is good for business. Closing that gap will be important. Professional advice also makes a difference. Of the manufacturers surveyed, 53% sought guidance from safety professionals or WorkSafe in the past year, and those who did were more likely to make further improvements. At the EMA we have seen this firsthand through decades of health and safety training. Our most senior course, the NZ Diploma in Workplace Health and Safety Management Level 6, reached the significant milestone of 100 graduates in October 2025. We have also launched our Safety AdviceLine to support businesses needing clear and timely guidance. To target manufacturing harm specifically, we partnered with ACC and data specialists Flock to launch the Manufacturing Safety Dashboard, giving manufacturers a clear, real-time view of safety performance across their operations. New Zealand manufacturing has moved from reactive compliance to proactive improvement. The progress is real and worth protecting. Good health and safety always costs less than poor health and safety. • Paul Jarvie is manager Employment Relations & Safety at the Employers and Manufacturers Association (EMA)

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JANUARY 2026

School zones and hidden prices

In Hamilton, the right side of the street can mean the best school - and a higher house price. Savvy buyers are eyeing zones that may soon command premiums. Jon Rawlinson reports.

ince the decile system was scrapped, it’s become trickier to know whether a suburb offers access to top-tier education. However, recent data from Realestate.co.nz sheds light on a clear correlation between house prices and school zones – for the best marks, some appear prepared to pay big bucks. It may be clichéd, but the old real estate adage that buyers aiming to bag a bargain should seek ‘the worst house on the best street’ still rings true. What’s more, the right side of that street may make a remarkable difference too. “This data shows just

Vanessa Williams, Realestate. co.nz

how valuable a school zone address can be,” says Vanessa Williams from Realestate.co.nz. “One side of the road may be in zone for a popular school but the other isn’t. Houses on the right side can command higher prices.” Academics and mortarboards may matter more than many thought when we invest in bricks and mortar. Being in the right zone has already helped raise the roof on prices for properties near at least one Hamilton school. The average Hillcrest High School in-zone asking price was recorded as 55 per cent higher than for properties nearby, Williams says. Rototuna junior and senior high schools also fared well – prices up by 19 and 15 per cent in zone. In contrast, there was a minimal difference for zones of other well-respected schools - Hamilton Girls’ and Hamilton Boys’ high schools. The average price of the 1057 listings in the Hillcrest zone between October 2023 and September this year was $1.177 million. Prices in the Rototuna zones were both over $1 million, Hamilton girls and

boys at $776,000. Auckland’s highlypriced ‘leafy green’ central and North Shore suburbs topped the table - Epsom Girls’ Grammar saw in-zone properties fetching almost 90 per cent more than others nearby. “It’s more pronounced in Auckland and Christchurch, which are very well known for differences in school zones,” Williams says. “But the landscape is changing across the board.

It’s certainly a bigger part of the conversation these days than it was years ago.” Because densely populated cities have more schools within any given area, people can move to ‘the right zone’ without moving too far away from family and workplaces for example. As Hamilton is one of New Zealand’s fastest growing cities, more zones could show similar disparities to those in Auckland and

Christchurch in the not-toodistant future. Consequently, savvy buyers may be able to get in on the ground floor, choosing properties where the difference is negligible now but could change as population density increases. However, as growing cities add new schools, zones may shift — reducing both land value and ceiling prices. Whether we’re purchasing as an investment, or to

ensure our children access ‘the right schools’, certain zones can help deliver top marks. “If people are looking to buy in certain school zones, even if they’re not thinking about children, the data suggests that they could see a premium for their property further down the line,” Williams says. School zones are worth factoring into any home purchase - even if children aren’t part of the plan.

Raglan retreat triumphs

Nixon Homes won the Master Builders House of the Year under $1 million Award and National Altus Window Systems New Home $750,000 - $1 million category for this tranquil haven nestled in the laid-back surf town of Raglan. Judges praised the home for its standout architecture which raised the bar for what could be achieved under $1 million. Velvin Building excelled for a second year running, with their Queenstown home taking out three accolades: the National Supreme House of the Year over $1 million Award, National Kitchen Excellence Award and National Resene New Home $2 million - $4 million category.

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JANUARY 2026

ADVERTORIAL CONVERSATIONS WITH MIKE NEALE OF NAI HARCOURTS HAMILTON

A Visionary - Casabella Lane

said to someone the other day about Casabella Lane — an enchanting Mediterranean-styled laneway between Barton and Anglesea Streets — it’s looking better than ever, and it reminded me of the start of my real estate career. Originally from Wales, Auckland solicitor Andrew Thomas and his wife began a bold journey when they purchased the former Warehouse Stationery building on Barton Street, with the vision to eventually create a boutique Mediterranean styled lane. In 2003, when I began in real estate, the lane was starting to take shape, though it reached only about two-thirds of the way down, stopping just before where today’s courtyard begins. It ended at a charming Greek restaurant, who served the most wonderful lamb shanks – coincidentally, the place where I had to take the office team after completing my first $1 million deal (former BNZ building on the corner of Victoria & London Streets, which had been vacant for nearly 10 years). No other agent in Hamilton seemed to take much interest in the lane, but as a newcomer I only saw an intriguing project. Rents were somewhat high at the time, particularly for a laneway that didn’t yet lead anywhere. Kara Gerrand and I developed a strong working relationship with Andrew, who was very deliberate about curating the right mix of tenants. He envisioned a courtyard and full access through to Anglesea Street. It was, without question, a passion project — not without its financial risks, as he later discovered. Having completed more than 30 lease and sale transactions in the laneway, Kara and I have been privileged to be part of its journey.

Andrew sometimes needed convincing about the tenants we brought forward, but almost without exception, they proved to be strong additions to the lane, providing a niche retail experience. Unfortunately, the GFC took hold in late 2007 and the second-tier finance bit, which led the owner to unit titling the tenancies and being forced to sell them off separately. It’s been through a bit of a roller coaster, but as I wander through it most weeks, it’s really looking very good.

Casabella Lane now features: • 18 shops • 9 apartments • 35 car parks, plus a loading zone

Owner Occupiers: • Zebrano wanted to own their premises, so we arranged an offmarket deal allowing them to purchase two adjoining units, which they continue to own and operate today. • Sills, who took over the Annah Stretton tenancy, and we facilitated a sale there too. • Nature’s Spa NZ purchased their unit in due course. • And now Midas Diamond Jewellers.

Standing the Test of Time: • Poppies Books, originally located down by the courtyard, is still part of the lane nearly 20 years later — now in a larger shop closer to Barton Street. • Gordon Harris art supplies wanted to be in Hamilton and located near Wintec. • Kino Sushi who started in the courtyard when it was originally developed and have never left.

Recent Arrivals: • Scran, a retro coffee bar and eatery, with a modern twist. • Parlour Boutique, who are undertaking their fitout in the former Midas Jewellers site.

Over time, we helped Andrew acquire adjoining properties, until only one more was needed to complete the development and allow construction of the courtyard and apartments. By this point, his wife’s patience was wearing thin. She joked, “If you buy another building, I’m leaving you.” It felt too late to stop, so he purchased the final property — and true to her word, she left him.

The lane’s distinctive charm continues and there is truly something special for everyone. Next time you’re out shopping, take a stroll down the ultracharming Casabella Lane and show your support for a unique mix of local – you won’t be disappointed. To Andrew Thomas, you really have left the Hamilton CBD with a legacy that you can be proud of – and we would like to thank you for your vision and commitment, albeit that wasn’t the outcome you deserved. Mike Neale, Managing Director, NAI Harcourts Hamilton

COMMUNICATIONS AND MARKETING

Accidently confusing By JOSH MOORE

Have you ever been confused reading a website or ad? I run a digital marketing agency, so I often receive emails about new marketing tools. One email recently caught my attention for all the wrong reasons. It repeatedly used an acronym that, in my world, means something completely different. The writer assumed it was obvious, but to me, it was confusing. I visited their website and found other jargon scattered across their content with no explanation. They thought they were being clear, but they were speaking a language I didn’t understand - and I’m their target market! Every industry has its own jargon - those phrases and acronyms that feel second nature to insiders. They make communication efficient within your team, but when it comes to marketing, they can become a barrier rather than a bridge. The problem is simple: we get so used to our own language that we forget our customers might not speak it. This is a common mistake businesses make. They assume their audience understands the terminology as well as they do. In reality, most customers only have a surface-level familiarity with your industry. When your messaging leans too heavily on jargon, you risk confusing or alienating the very people you want to engage. Now, this doesn’t mean you should strip all technical language from your content. If your target market is highly specialised, avoiding jargon altogether can make you sound inexperienced or even condescending if you over-explain. The key is balance. Use

jargon where it adds clarity and credibility but always check whether it needs a quick explanation. In my own marketing, one service my agency offers is SEO. To me, that clearly means Search Engine Optimisation – which means getting your website ranked higher in Google. Most marketing managers and a lot of business owners understand this. However, it would be a mistake to assume everyone does. Many CEOs and owners aren’t hands-on with marketing and if I use “SEO” on its own, they’ll have to jog their memory as to what it means. Their world is full of their own acronyms, and SEO isn’t something they discuss daily. So, in our marketing, when we first mention SEO, we build in quick explainer phrases like “Search Engine Optimisation to get your website ranked higher in Google”. By doing this, we connect with potential clients who know the jargon well and those who don’t. Give your marketing content the jargon sniff test: Does this make sense to someone who isn’t in your industry? Better yet, get it reviewed by someone outside of your industry, but inside your target market. Does it resonate with them? Or do they have questions? Clear communication isn’t about dumbing things down. It’s about making sure your message lands. When your message hits the mark, you can turn prospects into customers. • Josh Moore is the managing director of Hamilton-based digital marketing agency Duoplus.

LOCAL GOVERNMENT

In awe of crowds and resolutions By MARGARET EVANS

The new year and summer remind me that we humans have a long history of gatherings in village greens and town squares, for markets and festivals and events of all sorts. And resolutions. As world cities grew, their central public spaces were seen as the ‘beating heart’ for political protests as well as celebrations, some able to host millions. Still. ‘Democracy’ and ‘demonstration’ both come from the Greek ‘demos’ (the common people), and from the gathered masses came ‘polis’ as the root of ‘politics’ (as well as ‘police’). In this nation, this duo (democracy and politics) once attracted power-fuelled audiences, for all day election affairs as voters met at local polling booths then waited in city centres for the results to be posted usually by local newspapers on their main street facade. And here’s 1931 evidence (thanks to our Alexander Turnbull Library). We, the people, are still drawn into mass gatherings of music, sport, and cultural celebrations, And I’m wondering if we can restore that energy into our polling system. There are two public elections this year: WEL Trust in June (for Hamilton, Waikato and Waipā residents), then parliamentary elections by year end. Three years ago, 90% of voters failed to vote in the WEL elections (owners of WEL Networks, impacting electricity pricing, and a 2025 balance sheet recording $196million in revenue, equity of $814million, and a network asset base of $973million). In last year’s council elections, two thirds of

voters didn’t (the lowest in 35 years), while turnout dropped to 78% in the 2022 general elections (from a high of 95% in the 1984 Robert Muldoon – David Lange challenge). There’s already reformist talk, and so here’s some ideas for our current politicians, friends and whanau on how best to promote ‘audience participation’. Let’s ditch letter box election envelopes and replace postal voting with in-person digital voting at public polling places (more ‘secure’ than smart phones or home computers). With coinciding iconic entertainment to bring on the voters. As well, toughen up on the legal requirement to enrol (at 18 years since 1974) and add the Australian-style insistence on actual voting. That’s a message to parents too, and a reminder the ‘rites of passage’ confirming adulthood includes voter responsibilities as well as a driver licence and legal alcohol. A quick review confirms the decline in enrolled voters within our increasing population - in 2023, 440,000 fewer than in 2017. Lowest were our 18-24year-olds (57%). Over 82% of older adults aged 25-35years enrolled, and 90% beyond that. That election cartoon character needs updating. • Margaret Evans was Hamilton mayor from 1989 to 1998 and first elected to the council in 1974. She was honoured in 1995 with a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) for her services to local government.

JANUARY 2026

Briefs… Voices from atomic shadows Ear ear

A public lecture at Cambridge’s St Andrew’s Church Hall last month presented survivors’ accounts of the Hiroshima and Nagasaki bombings that took place on August 6 and 9, 1945. The lecture was delivered by Professor Mordecai George (M.G.) Sheftall, author of the books, ‘Hiroshima: The Last Witnesses’, and ‘Nagasaki: The Last Witnesses’, and a professor of Modern Japanese Cultural History and Communication at Shizuoka University in Japan. It was a repeat of one delivered at Auckland University earlier in the month. Also in attendance in Cambridge was the Consul General of Japan, Shinji Matsui, who came down from Auckland with his wife for the event. Sheftall’s research focuses on the modern evolution of Japanese national identity, with particular emphasis on World War Two and the lingering effects of that conflict at both collective and individual levels of Japanese consciousness. This year marked the 80th anniversary of the bombings which killed an estimated 250,000 people and led to Japan’s surrender in WW2. The lecture was organised by Cambridge-based Mark Mullins, professor of Japanese Studies at Auckland University. - Viv Posselt.

Pictured before the lecture started are professors Mordecai George (M.G.) Sheftall, left, and Mark Mullins. Photo: Viv Posselt

Tolbecs Ear Centre Limited, with clinics in Hamilton East and Rototuna, has been named New Zealand’s Most Trusted Business of 2025. A privately owned, nurse-led ear clinic, Tolbecs provides safe, comfortable, and professional care to support people with their ears and hearing. The Most Trusted Business Awards celebrate hardworking, honest, and trustworthy businesses across New Zealand.

Care comes first

The ﬁrst stage of Tamahere Country Club’s 6000 square metre Care Centre – for dementia and hospital level care - has opened and features innovative design and a unique approach to care. It features a 20-bed memory care neighbourhood, and 14 dual-purpose rest home/hospital beds. When the facility is completed next year, there will be 80 care suites to complement the village’s 250 standalone villas.

Health boost

Chook fame

Waitoa has launched a major new campaign and on-pack QR technology that gives New Zealanders the ability to trace their free range chicken back to the Waikato farms where it was raised. Depicting Waikato’s verdant farms where Waitoa is based, the campaign features a pair of farmers pondering, with provincial understatement, how little we know about our poultry.

Austin elected

Graeme Austin has been elected New Zealand National Fieldays Society president ahead of nominated board member Harmen Heesen. Austin, who has served on the board since 2019, replaces Jenni Vernon. Sam Williams has joined the board with Austin, Tim Hale, Vernon, Jo Finer, Clinton Gulliver, Heesen and Lynette Pearks.

Decade up

A significant donation from the Glenice and John Gallagher Foundation will help Braemar Charitable Trust address several areas of unmet health needs in the Waikato region. The $100,000 each year for three years to enable it to pilot and scale innovative initiatives to address areas of significant need including patients on waiting lists who need echocardiograms and colonoscopies, and children needing specialist paediatric dental surgery.

Wintec and Jinhua University of Vocational Technology in China have celebrated their 10th anniversary as a joint institution. The partnership has created opportunities for thousands of students to access international learning pathways, preparing them for global careers. Wintec co-delivers a range of undergraduate programmes in topics including engineering, design, and information technology to offshore students at Jinhua University.

Better air

Dol to airport

Winter 2025 marked a turning point for air quality in Tokoroa, thanks to a community-focused education campaign led by Waikato Regional Council. The initiative, which ran in Tokoroa and Te Kūiti, aimed to reduce harmful emissions from home heating by promoting better wood-burning practices.

Hamilton Airport has seconded wellknown Waikato-based project director Rob Dol to its senior team for two years. He moves from his current role as project director at Colliers Project Leaders to become the airport’s group general manager – Property and Infrastructure.

Springs warning

New Zealand Transport Agency say some people accessing one of Waikato’s hidden gems – the Blue Springs and Te Waihou Walkway near Putāruru – are parking on the state highway when there is allocated parking available which South Waikato District Council has recently upgraded.

Power century

Wairere Power Station marked 100 years of hydropower and community connection last month with a private event attended by iwi, hapū, community leaders, friends, and staff past and present. The day also recognised the strong environmental partnership between King Country Energy and iwi, particularly in the protection of the elver migration along the Mōkau River.

Global deal

New Zealand-made virtual reality training technology is set to reach defence forces around the world, thanks to a new agreement between global defence company Babcock International and Hamilton-based tech firm Company-X. The partnership, announced at the Indo Pacific International Maritime Exposition in Sydney, marks a major step for the Kiwi firm behind simulation software already used by the Royal New Zealand Navy.

Sales raised

Waikato is one of just three regions recording increases in the number of property sales year-on-year, the Real Estate Institute of New Zealand (REINZ) advises. National sales declined 5.7 per cent, but Waikato bucked the trend (slightly), up 2.9 per cent – Nelson was also up, by 25.8 per cent followed by Northland, 12 per cent. However, the key takeaway from REINZ November Property Report is that confidence and median prices are on the rise across most of the country. • More briefs: goodlocal.nz

Connect - Inspire - Grow - Represent

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JANUARY 2026

GIANT SUDOKU

‘AMERICAN’ CROSSWORD

The legendary phoenix lives for 500 years or more. At the end of its life it builds a nest of twigs that it then ignites. Nest and bird are reduced to ashes, from which a new, young phoenix emerges. Can you solve our Giant Sudoku? Every row, every column and every 4x4 box must contain digits 1 to 9, and all seven letters in the word PHOENIX.

Crossword grids tend to come in two main styles - Italian and American. ‘Italian’ grids have roughly the same number of black and white squares, and each clue has to be solved. This puzzle has an ‘American’ grid, with relatively few black squares and many answers that can be solved completely by filling in other answers. 1

18 22

2 - Across: 5. Inspire, 6. Cigar, 9. Florida. Down: 1. Hip, 2. Eskimos, 3. Titanic, 4. Pen, 7. Aft, 8. Map.

Quiz

Across 1. Shatter (5) 6. Saline solution from lacrimal glands (9) 13. Military band flutes (5) 18. Underwater missile (7) 19. Tier (5) 20. Gorge (7) 21. Tearful vegetable (5) 22. Punch and Judy operator (9) 25. Saltpetre (5) 26. Spar supporting sails (4) 27. Ghost (5) 28. Harangues (5) 30. Identical (4) 31. Area equal to 100sqm (3) 32. Marsupial (5) 33. Evening appointment (7) 35. Lick (3) 36. Deflect (5) 38. Kingdom (5) 40. Spectral (7) 42. Warmth (4) 44. Hides (6) 47. Compensated (4) 48. Chuck (4) 50. Sound of a bagpipe (5) 51. Heals (anag) (5) 53. Sailor’s dance (8) 54. Flower segment (5) 56. Oil source (4) 57. Samples (6) 58. Tuft (7) 60. Tumbled (4) 61. Leader of the Smurfs (4)

85 89

95 99

84 88

96 100

101 104

102 105

107

63. Coating to seal a porous surface (7) 66. Excite (6) 67. Stay, persist (4) 70. Farewell (5) 71. Hold sacred (8) 72. Encourage (5) 73. Wetlands (5) 75. Compass direction (4) 76. Bard (4) 77. Material used to strengthen a garment (6) 80. Abscess (4) 81. Egyptian ruler (7) 83. Evade (5) 85. Whisky distilled in Scotland (5) 86. Clothes holder (3) 88. Photographed (7) 90. Circles of light (5) 91. Dined (3) 93. Water (L) (4) 95. Velocity (5) 96. Sterilise (5) 97. Froth (4) 98. Destroys (5) 100. Done recklessly (9) 102. Small breed of dog (5) 103. Oriental (7) 104. Largest city in Africa (5) 105. Turncoat (7) 106. Mix of rain and snow (5) 107. Appearance (9) 108. Designs (5)

108

Down 1. Leaf opening (5) 2. Sovereign (7) 3. Develop (5) 4. See (4) 5. Fowl (3) 6. Art of making shaping shrubs (7) 7. First letter in the Greek alphabet (5) 8. Ecstatic (4) 9. Stain (3) 10. Fall back (7) 11. Mountain nymph (5) 12. Skirmish (6) 13. Bog (3) 14. Eye part (4) 15. Relating to a foetus (5) 16. Designate (7) 17. Set at a high angle (5) 23. Unattractive (4) 24. Way in (5) 27. Ken Follet novel, __ without End (5) 29. Slap (5) 32. Katherine (abbr) (5) 34. Oval (7) 36. Sacred song (5) 37. Edible part of nut (6) 39. Conventions (5) 40. Speak breathlessly (4) 41. Semi-precious gem (4) 42. Plunging (8) 43. Mountain range (4) 45. Lowest female singing voice (4) 46. Pout (4) 48. Garden irrigator (4) 49. Beekeeper (8) 52. Detested (5)

53. Dagger handle (4) 55. Litmus reddeners (5) 58. Story (4) 59. Champion’s wreath (7) 61. Saying (6) 62. Measure equal to four gills (4) 63. Confessed (slang) (4) 64. Intentions (4) 65. Hire (5) 66. He and she (4) 67. Afrikaners (5) 68. Tiny amount (4) 69. Engrave (4) 72. Vessels (5) 74. Floors (5) 76. Genus of plant which is chiefly North American (5) 78. One-sided (7) 79. Conical tent (5) 80. Type of cheese (7) 81. Artist’s board (7) 82. Eight-sided shape (7) 84. Author, ___ du Maurier (6) 85. Large number of people (4) 86. Peels (5) 87. Appearance (5) 89. Quietness (5) 90. Wading bird (5) 91. Main artery (5) 92. Eastern VIPs (5) 94. Poker stake (4) 96. Dreadful (4) 97. Thwart (4) 99. Harden (3) 101. Pear-shaped fruit (3) 102. Place a limit on (3)

Solution Across: 1. Smash, 6. Teardrops, 13. Fifes, 18. Torpedo, 19. Layer, 20. Overeat, 21. Onion, 22. Puppeteer, 25. Nitre, 26. Mast, 27. Wight, 28. Rants, 30. Same, 31. Are, 32. Koala, 33. Bedtime, 35. Lap, 36. Parry, 38. Realm, 40. Ghostly, 42. Heat, 44. Cloaks, 47. Paid, 48. Hurl, 50. Skirl, 51. Shale, 53. Hornpipe, 54. Petal, 56. Palm, 57. Tastes, 58. Tussock, 60. Fell, 61. Papa, 63. Sealant, 66. Thrill, 67. Bide, 70. Adieu, 71. Enshrine, 72. Boost, 73. Marsh, 75. East, 76. Poet, 77. Gusset, 80. Cyst, 81. Pharaoh, 83. Elude, 85. Malts, 86. Peg, 88. Snapped, 90. Halos, 91. Ate, 93. Aqua, 95. Speed, 96. Desex, 97. Foam, 98. Ruins, 100. Headfirst, 102. Corgi, 103. Eastern, 104. Cairo, 105. Traitor, 106. Sleet, 107. Emergence, 108. Plans. Down: 1. Stoma, 2. Monarch, 3. Arise, 4. Spot, 5. Hen, 6. Topiary, 7. Alpha, 8. Rapt, 9. Dye, 10. Retreat, 11. Oread, 12. Sortie, 13. Fen, 14. Iris, 15. Fetal, 16. Earmark, 17. Steep, 23. Ugly, 24. Entry, 27. World, 29. Smack, 32. Katie, 34. Ellipse, 36. Psalm, 37. Kernel, 39. Mores, 40. Gasp, 41. Opal, 42. Hurtling, 43. Alps, 45. Alto, 46. Sulk, 48. Hose, 49. Apiarist, 52. Hated, 53. Haft, 55. Acids, 58. Tale, 59. Laurels, 61. Phrase, 62. Pint, 63. Sang, 64. Aims, 65. Lease, 66. They, 67. Boers, 68. Iota, 69. Etch, 72. Boats, 74. Stuns, 76. Phlox, 78. Unequal, 79. Tepee, 80. Cheddar, 81. Palette, 82. Octagon, 84. Daphne, 85. Mass, 86. Pares, 87. Guise, 89. Peace, 90. Heron, 91. Aorta, 92. Emirs, 94. Ante, 96. Dire, 97. Foil, 99. Set, 101. Fig, 102. Cap.

Quick cryptic 1 - Across: 1. Safer, 5. Old, 6. Amuse, 8. Spain, 10. Dip, 11. Yield. Down: 1. Seaside, 2. Flu, 3. Roe, 5. Adorned, 7. Sip, 8. Spy, 9. Ale. 1. Longshoreman, 2. A tightrope, 3. Precious stones, 4. Argentina and Uruguay, 5. By carrying his unit’s flag, 6. To turn base metals into gold, 7. Purser, 8. Falconer, 9. Maps, 10. Chambermaid.

Giant sudoku

67 72

106

1. What is the term for a stevedore in the United States? 2. What does a funambulist walk on? 3. A lapidary is a specialist in working with what kind of material? 4. Name either of the countries in which a cattle herder is called a gaucho? 5. In the army, how did a colour-sergeant get his title? 6. What was the main goal of medieval alchemists? 7. Which officer on a ship is responsible for provisions and accounts? 8. Who breeds, trains or hunts with hawks? 9. What does a cartographer make or study? 10. What is a female servant attending to bedrooms in houses or inns?

103

QUIZ - occupations

61 66

44 49

Across 5. Motivate in church tower (7) 6. Cuban vehicle holds a thousand (5) 9. LA rid of torrid state (7) Down 1. Happening joint (3) 2. Northern folk ski in some confusion (7) 3. Massive sort out in attic (7) 4. Swan enclosure (3) 7. Stern but almost silly (3) 8. Poet Ayres looks up atlas (3)

30 34

Across 1. Less dangerous than assorted fears (5) 5. Over the hill of fooldom (3) 6. Entertain an inspiration (5) 8. Country health resort at home (5) 10. Policeman parking pickpocket (3) 11. Relinquish supply (5) Down 1. Main team on the coast (7) 2. Illness found among affluent (3) 3. Initially run off elderly deer (3) 4. Dressed up and rode around (7) 7. Odds about single swallow (3) 8. Glimpse mole (3) 9. The French after a drink (3)

24 28

12 20

QUICK CRYPTICS

H 7 2 8 O X 1 P I 6 4 5 9 E N 3 5 1 E 4 2 H 9 N O 8 P 3 6 I 7 X N P O 9 I 3 8 6 E X 1 7 2 H 4 5 3 6 X I E 5 4 7 9 N H 2 1 O 8 P 6 2 P O N 7 H 8 1 9 3 X E 4 5 I E N 1 3 X 4 2 I 6 5 7 H O 8 P 9 9 8 4 H 5 1 6 O P E I N 7 3 X 2 7 X I 5 P 9 3 E 2 4 8 O H N 6 1 1 I H 6 7 P O 4 X 3 E 8 5 9 2 N P 9 N X H 8 5 3 4 2 6 1 I 7 E O 8 5 7 E 9 6 I 2 H O N P 3 X 1 4 4 O 3 2 1 E N X 5 7 9 I 8 P H 6 I 3 5 P 6 N E 9 7 H 2 4 X 1 O 8 2 H 8 1 4 O P 5 3 I X E N 6 9 7 X E 6 N 3 2 7 1 8 P O 9 4 5 I H O 4 9 7 8 I X H N 1 5 6 P 2 3 E

JANUARY 2026

Building a legacy beyond sport

Olympic gold medallist Rob Waddell has turned his passion for volunteering into a Waikato business driving social impact through sport and education. Jesse Woods finds out more.

ob Waddell has swapped the water for the boardroom, building a business dedicated to helping young New Zealanders access sport and opportunity. Waddell, one of the country’s most celebrated athletes, spent more than two decades in high-performance sport including three America’s Cup campaigns and three Olympic Games. Since retiring, he has channelled his energy into voluntary work and the company he and wife Sonia own - Waddell and Associates, which now employs 14 staff nationwide. The couple live in Cambridge and have three children Sophie, Hayden and Madeleine. Despite his business activities, Waddell found himself working almost full-time as a volunteer with projects like the Grassroots Velodrome, Te Awa River Ride and the Halberg Foundation. “I really developed a passion for it combined with my natural interest in marketing.” Waddell, 51 this month, was born in Te Kūiti and attended Piopio Primary School where he lived on a dairy farm with parents Jim and Susan. He boarded at King’s College in Auckland and studied at Waikato University – majoring in marketing and Japanese where he discovered a passion and drive to help and give back. He graduated with a Bachelor of Management Studies with Honours in 1998, two years before he won New Zealand’s only gold medal at the Sydney Olympics.

Among Waddell and Associates’ flagship projects is the New Zealand Sport Collective run in partnership with Whakaata Māori. The initiative recently won recognition from the Māori Language Commission for weaving bilingual commentary into school sports broadcasts. “It was very humbling. “We’ve been able to bring that to life through one of our projects, which is youth sport and the coverage of that. “All of our events have bilingual commentary with at least 30 per cent te reo Māori, delivered in an educative way so listeners can enjoy and learn along the way.” Since 2019, the collective has channelled more than $20 million in funding to lowdecile schools and sporting organisations. Sponsors such as 2 degrees and Chemist Warehouse have helped eliminate sports fees, install new facilities, and boost participation. Getting funding into schools has been one of Waddell’s major projects. “We join business and charity or business and charitable causes - schools, sports, charities, not-for-profit organisations - we bring them together and manage those partnerships to make sure they go well,” he says. “Then we do all the measurement and reporting around that.” A “sweet spot” for his team is high social impact. “We want to make sure that we’re shifting the dial and it’s not some sort of token gesture. “When people are donating or sponsoring

Rob Waddell shooting hoops at the opening of the new ‘Hoops in Schools’ at Kelston Girls’. Photo: Roshy Uelese

a worthy cause, they’re doing so in the belief that it’ll make a difference. “We tend to roll up our sleeves and get involved in supporting and making sure those outcomes happen. “We unashamedly work hard to try and make sure the sponsors do well out of it too.” In Waikato, Affco funding has supported athletes including basketball star Charlisse Leger-Walker, helping cover costs of international travel and progression to elite levels such as Super Rugby or the Olympics.

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For Waddell, the motivation is simple: ensuring young people don’t miss out. “The link between academic achievement, attendance and involvement in sport is well proven,” he says. “Every time you’re involved with a cause, you ask yourself what else could I possibly do to help.” From rowing gold to grassroots sport, Waddell’s second act is about impact unlocking opportunities for communities and athletes who might otherwise be left behind.

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JANUARY 2026

Out and about…

More Out and about photos goodlocal.nz Send us your contributions to Out and about – editor@goodlocal.nz

Butter plant opens

Open Country opened its new $50 million butter plant at Wahāroa last month. The country’s second largest milk processor will export its product to North America, Japan, Southeast Asia, the Middle East, the UK and Europe. Chief executive Mark de Lautour said around 20,000 tonnes of butter each year will be sold to the global market. The new plant will produce half of its butter in small retail packets, mostly for US mega retailer Costco’s exclusive Kirkland grass-fed brand and the rest in bulk 25kg cartons for commercial use. Butter has soared in price globally since Open Country made the decision to build the plant two years ago. Photos: Mary Anne Gill (all captions from left to right)

Waharoa dairy farmers Cliff and June Hazelton were among the first to supply Open Country in its early days.

Serving up cool drinks - Madsen Catering’s Nicole Rihia and Leo Wallace from Hamilton with MPI’s Stephen Cunningham and Murray van der Maas.

Craig, left, and Allister Wilson of Elstow.

Here and there

Craig Bailey of Te Aroha butters his cheese scone.

Linking professionals

Business networker Linkedin Local held their Christmas party at Craig Investment Partners in Union Square. Attendees brought along donations of non perishable food items and toys for under the Christmas tree while having an evening of festive cheer, laughs, networking and community connection with local professionals. Photos: Marcelo Mieres (all captions from left to right)

Hamilton historian Lyn Williams gestures towards a headstone during the city council’s annual cemetery tour at Hamilton West, next to Waikato Stadium, where she explored the fascinating stories behind the headstones. The heritage cemetery holds much history and many of the city’s famed citizens lie in rest there. They include Waikato Hospital matron Elizabeth Rothwell, entrepreneur Thomas Jolly who named Frankton after his son Frank, Grandview landowner Richard Dillicar, Waikato Argus publisher George Escombe and dentist Alexander James Young. Photo: Mary Anne Gill Department of Conservation senior statutory advisor Rhys Cooper and project manager Chris Hud

Long time union organiser Shane Vuglar, left, with Wintec’s Gail Pittaway at the Hamilton Arts Festival launch last month. The festival will be held in the Hamilton Gardens from February 20 to March 1 and will feature the Fijian Flying Circus, Don McGlashan, Dirty Laundry, Opera by Candelight, Black Comet and the ever popular free Sunset Symphony. Photo: Mary Anne Gill

The Mortgage Supply Co mortgage advisor Neet Dhiman and Media PA director Phillip Quay.

Private Wealth Associate’s Ruth Mwamba and Eloise King from Craig’s Investment Partners with former Waikato Regional Council chair Pamela Storey, managing director of Taniwha Estate Ltd.

Harvey Brookes executive director, Waikato Wellbeing Project, Jason Davis general manager, Waikato Shed Company.

JANUARY 2026

Out and about…

More Out and about photos goodlocal.nz Send us your contributions to Out and about – editor@goodlocal.nz

Med School a step nearer

South Waikato wrap

A groundbreaking ceremony at the site of Waikato University’s new medical school moved a lengthy and sometimes controversial project from a courageous idea into the realm of reality. The fourstorey $83 million New Zealand Graduate School of Medicine is scheduled for completion in December 2027. It will welcome its first students the following year. Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and Waikato-Tainui chair Tukoroirangi Morgan shared the task of turning the first sod at the site. Photos: Viv Posselt (all captions from left to right)

Waikato Chamber of Commerce’s final South Waikato business networking event for 2025 was held in the Tokoroa Sports and Events Centre. Ben Purua, who is today the manager of a 540 cow farm near Tīrau, and a finalist in last year’s KiwiBank Young New Zealander of the Year was the guest speaker. He spoke on his journey from gang violence as a teenager, to time in Waikeria Prison where he was introduced to farming through its agricultural programme. Photos: Jenny MacGregor, Waikato Chamber of Commerce (all captions from left to right)

Clive Morgan and Steve Gow.

Among guests at the sod-turning ceremony for the New Zealand Graduate School of Medicine at Waikato University are, from left, Universities Minister and former health minister, Shane Reti, Hamilton mayor Tim Macindoe, and Braemar Hospital chief executive Fiona Michel, who is on the University of Waikato council and chairs the new advisory board established for the country’s first graduate-entry medical school.

Guest speaker Ben Purua receives a gift at the event.

Waikato Chamber chief executive Don Good speaking at the wrap up.

Waikato-Tainui chair Tukoroirangi Morgan gestures to Prime Minister Christopher Luxon to take a spade ahead of last month’s sod-turning ceremony at Waikato University’s new medical school watched by Health minister Simeon Brown, behind him MPs Tim van de Molen, Louise Upston, Tama Potaka and Ryan Hamilton; vice chancellor Neil Quigley, former chancellors John Gallagher and Anand Satyanand with present chancellor Susan Hassall.

Rob Finlayson, Richard Leach, Eddie Stocks and Rose Jefferies.

During proceedings at last month’s groundbreaking ceremony for the new medical school at Waikato University are, from left, Hamilton mayor Tim Macindoe, Taupō MP Louise Upston, and Universities Minister and former health minister Shane Reti.

A group shot during the South Waikato wrap up.

PURPOSE-BUILT. IN 2025

Air Liquide

JANUARY 2026

Waikato Regional Theatre

Kinfields Village Rototuna (Stage 2)

UOW Knighton Road Student Accommodation

Tai Timu Tai Pari Health Hub

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From large-scale industrial warehouses, to community health hub, we’re proud to be known as the ‘go-to’ team in construction. Our approach is to listen, first. To understand what matters - to our client and end users.

With a full in-house team spanning preconstruction, ECI, design, engineering, compliance, sustainability and ongoing building maintenance, our integrated approach is designed to maximise efficiency, and create value throughout the construction process.

Then, we work on delivering exceptional quality and value.

With a well-established network of trusted subcontractors, alongside a reliable supply

Let’s build together.

Simon Mabin, UPC Head of Property

chain, we can deliver the best outcomes to our clients. We value our partnerships. We aim to exceed expectations. We make the build journey easy.