Kaipara Lifestyler, February 17th 2026

Toa warms up for gold

u by Paul Campbell

Kaiwaka shearing gun Toa Henderson heads selection for the New Zealand world shears championships team for the 2026 Golden Shears in Masterton on March 4–7.

Also in the machine shearers team of two is former Ruawai son, Rowland Smith, now in Hawke’s Bay, together with two blade shears and two woolhanders in the New Zealand Shearing Sports Team.

Toa has long claimed the first machine shearing position in an eight-round regional show series dating back almost a year,

Northland has produced top hope for the machine shearing title, with the biggest opposition expected to come from defending champion Gwion Evans, of Wales, and 2012 champion, Hawke’s Bay farmer and Scotland national Gavin Mutch.

New Zealand has gone the last two world championships without winning any of the machine shearing individual or teams’ titles.

On Waitangi Day, in the first of three Wools of New Zealand shearing tests against a Welsh duo, pitting two shearers a team over 20 lambs each, first blood went to Toa Henderson.

With his place already secured for Masterton he shore the 20 lambs in 14min 40sec, 22 seconds quicker than next-man-off, Jack Fagan, 49 seconds clear of first Welshman Llyr Jones, and more than two minutes quicker than Welsh gun Gwion Evans, who is preparing

for next month’s title he won in Scotland in 2023.

The Welsh had the better quality, with Evans knocking-back the time-points deficit with a quality rating more than two points better than either man in the black singlets.

It was a big day for Toa who also won the open final, shearing 20 ewes in 14m 58s and winning by 2.5 points from runner-up Jones, scoring his best individual results in a New Zealand show open final. The second test is at the Franklin Show’s Counties Shears on February 22, and the third at the Taumarunui Shears on February 27. ¢

Alliance open for discussion

u by Andy Bryenton

The Kaipara District Council has agreed to discuss the prospect of a ‘super Kaipara’; an alternative to amalgamation with the Far North and Whangārei, with the Northern Action Group (NAG).

“If this goes ahead it will be the biggest local government reform since 1989,” said KDC chief executive Jason Marris.

‘Current central government reforms offer limited pathways for rational, place-based local government restructuring,’ wrote Bill Foster, chair of the Northern Action Group, in a proposal tabled to the KDC this month, which posits a KaiparaRodney alliance.

‘This option allows Kaipara to shape its future proactively, rather than reacting to regional consolidation pressures later. If communities do not articulate credible alternatives, outcomes will be imposed by default,’ he opined.

If adopted, the proposed KaiparaRodney zone would incorporate Helensville, Wellsford and Warkworth, Matakana and Leigh. Council functions currently administered in this area by elements of the Auckland Council, the Northland Regional Council and the Kaipara District Council would be taken over by a new unitary authority.

“Auckland has been explicitly excluded from this proposal and for this legislation,” said Mr Marris. “What the NAG group is asking for is the opportunity to have a conversation.”

“There’s a lot of dissatisfaction with a lot of the ratepayers in that area, too, that they have been put into a city area,” said deputy mayor Gorden Lambeth, discussing the views of some Rodney communities on being part of the super city.

By choosing to attach the NAG proposition to their submission to the central government, the KDC’s elected members took the stance that a superKaipara might be an option worth exploring. A NAG-pattern super-Kaipara would have a similar population to a superWhangārei fused with the Far North. ¢

New fire base a community hub

u by Paul Campbell

Paparoa’s new fire station is nearing completion ahead of schedule as the local fire brigade members have had an inspection tour. “It’s an amazing facility too,” says Paparoa fire chief Ken Ogilvy.

“We won’t take formal possession for another few months, but we are already planning for a community day after that with everyone welcome. It’s more than a fire station — it is an emergency hub for the whole community”

The new station will house the two fire appliances operated by the brigade, which has 19 volunteers with a locker room and changing area, a kitchen and office with a special feature being a drive-through facility for the large high internal garage.

The brigade has noted that the new fire station is now sited where the bowling club was destroyed by fire many years ago.

“We can drive through from the showgrounds behind the station so the appliances face out to the road, allowing for a quick operation when needed,” said Ken. “It’s a very good set-up, too, as it has an exhaust system coupled with automatic doors so the engine is started while extractor fans operate, and this cuts out after departure.

“We’re lucky too for the FENZ property decision that acquired the site of the old Paparoa Bowling Club.

“The new base is built to the highest earthquake-resistant standards and with in-built emergency power generation,” says Ken.

“We range over a large area from coast to coast covering the four large Kaipara peninsulas and from Oruawharo in the south up to Ruakākā, across to Waipoua and down to Poutō in the west. Our specialist rural crew is a very big part of the Northland Wildfire response team.”

Aspiring brigade volunteers can contact ken.ogilvy@fireandemergency.nz. ¢

Creative contributors called for Mercury Energy address friendship club

u by Andy Bryenton

ArtBeat is coming to Dargaville this March, and this could be your chance to showcase your creative works and talents before an interested audience.

ArtBeat is an annual event coming into its 29th year, and to mark the occasion it’s coming to Dargaville’s Riverside Gardens on March 21. The event is a celebration of art, culture, heritage and community creativity. It has grown to become a vibrant platform for the creative community to showcase their talents and to enrich the cultural fabric of society through expressive art.

“We’re very proud to have ArtBeat coming to Dargaville. There is just so much talent and creativity in our town and in the wider community. We want to invite everyone to take part, because there’s so much to appreciate,” says award-winning local artist and ArtBeat collaborator Micaela van den Berg.

The event’s organisers are on the lookout for a diverse range of artists, performers and creators across various disciplines to share their talents at ArtBeat for 2026. They plan to draw together local creators who want to share their unique perspectives, encourage others to experiment with artistic expression, and make the wider public aware of the

opportunities to participate in art which abound in the community.

“Taking ArtBeat to Kaipara is about leadership through creativity — building community capability, strengthening connections, and creating access to arts and culture in meaningful places. Riverside Gardens offers the perfect setting to bring people together and celebrate what makes this region special,” says Creative Northland chief executive Olivia Garelja.

Those who want to take part and demonstrate different arts and crafts, or talents can call Micaela on 027 758 9781 or contact Creative Northland 09 430 0710. ¢

u by Andy Bryenton

Representatives of Mercury Energy came to speak at the Dargaville Friendship Club last week, as work gets ready to begin erecting 12 of the largest wind turbines ever built in New Zealand, just outside of town.

Katy Scoullar, Mercury Energy communications liaison, and Mark Bell, site manager for the Kaiwaikawe Wind Farm, spoke to a full house at the friendship club engagement, as ships carrying the first stages of the 125-metretall, 6.3-metre-wide turbine towers docked at Northport.

“It’s a big one for our area, and it’s pretty exciting,” said Mr Bell. “We have some large parts of the build starting soon, and as you are driving on State Highway 14 you will see these turbines coming together — they are huge.”

A 90-metre-long trailer rig has been tested on the route between the port and the wind farm site on the Ripirō coast, and the first sections of tower will be moved after midnight but before dawn this week. Following this, the 21-tonne turbine blades will be moved. During the move it’s reported that emergency services, such as the ambulance and police, will still be able to get around the immense truck and trailer unit.

Vertical construction on-site begins tomorrow, using the biggest land vehicle

in New Zealand, a crane that will easily be able to mount the turbines to their 125-metre stems. When the $285 million wind farm is complete, it’s now been revealed that this source of energy, combined with geothermal power from Ngāwhā, will make Northland energy self-sufficient.

The Kaipara District Council will closely monitor noise levels after the build is done. The turbines are consented to produce no more than 40 decibels, or the level of a muted conversation in another room. ¢

Pahi power upgrade underway The active connection

u by Paul Campbell

Northpower’s essential electricity upgrades in Pahi planned to run on alternate days between February and April focussed on replacing ageing infrastructure is a double-edged sword for local residents.

The $1.6 million project involves replacing endof-life poles, hardware and overhead lines along Pahi Road and surrounding areas.

While power cuts will be a fact of life for some weeks, traffic is also a victim as many sections are reduced to one way and traffic control, meaning some delays are expected between 8.30am and 4pm, with different areas affected at different times and motorists asked to take extra care.

generator on all but two days of the power cuts.

u by Amy Fifita

The Paparoa Sports and Recreation Association is celebrating the community gym’s first anniversary by encouraging the community to gather together for its movement expo.

The Paparoa Movement Expo will have an assortment of fun to showcase, from line dancing to Boxfit.

Drawing in other sports and fitness activities from the area, people can try their hand at golf, tennis and other activities.

“We officially opened the gym in the old rugby club changing rooms a year ago, and we have had a great response from our community with over 70 paying members,” said chair Libby Jones.

Northpower customer manager Rachel Wansbone says around 280 customers “may experience multiple outages over the course of the project because the work cannot be completed on live lines.”

The upgrade is scheduled to run through to April 14 with a two-week break over Easter.

The Pahi Beach Holiday Park reserve area, hall and adjacent public toilets are being covered by a mobile power

“To further support the community during larger outage days, Northpower will also host community days at the Pahi Hall in February. These will provide a place for people to access power, have a hot cuppa, and speak directly with Northpower staff if they have questions or need support,” Rachel says.

“Customers can contact Northpower on 0800 667 847 or visit northpower. nz.” ¢

Libby says opening the gym has made them not only more aware of people’s physical activity, but also the other groups active in the area. The gym is run completely by volunteers, including a personal trainer, who assists with induction.

“Wanting to celebrate being open for a year and to connect with new people, we planned the expo. We will get some feedback from them to see how they’re going. It is an opportunity to get out, connect and be active.”

The day also comes with a three-month membership giveaway to the gym. After the movement expo, people can look forward to the annual Fun Walk Run event on Saturday, March 14.

“It benefits others to connect with others and feel like they belong in our community. Even though we live in the country, there are still great things that people can do.”

For more information on either event, contact Libby on 021 208 0093 or email hames.jones@xtra.co.nz. ¢

Four councils, one voice

u by Andy Bryenton

Topics of legislative reform, the new Northland Expressway, energy resilience and more were on the table when the four council leaders of Northland united to share their vision with Local Government Minister Simon Watts last week.

Mr Watts had travelled north for Waitangi Day commemorations along with a retinue of parliamentarian colleagues, and met up with the mayors of Kaipara, Whangārei and the Far North as well as the Northland Regional Council chair and civic chief executives.

With proposed legislation, currently in the submissions phase, which may signal a major shake-up for how Northland is governed, this united front was a reminder that ‘by Northland, for Northland’ is the common imperative of all the region’s authorities.

The combined will of all four councils, expressed in a unified desire to deliver affordable infrastructure, rapid natural disaster relief and mitigation, and locally relevant leadership, was a message in itself. Northland can work in harmony without being integrated into one unitary body.

Mr Watts was presented with several examples of Northland councils getting ahead of the bow wave of change by working effectively together, yet retaining autonomy and thus voter accountability.

“Te Tai Tokerau — Northland is mindful of the guiding principles and outcomes the government is seeking from its reforms. We support change, but we believe this must reflect Northland’s geography, our unique communities and iwi relationships.

Wherefamilies comefirst

The focus must be on outcomes rather than structure,” says Far North mayor and chair of the Northland Mayoral Forum, Moko Tepania.

“We want to avoid a one-size-fits-all approach to local government reform and are keen to start working with the government now on a collective response that works for our communities.”

Simon Watts said he valued the opportunity to learn more about the vision that Northland’s four councils have for their region and praised them for showing initiative.

“These early conversations around the government’s proposals show that regions are ready to lead. It’s exactly the type of joint thinking the reforms are intended to support,” said Mr Watts.

“Northland is demonstrating there is a real opportunity here for regions to chart their own path and start shaping practical solutions that work locally.

“I welcome the initiative shown by Northland’s councils and encourage other regions to follow their lead and start engaging around these issues early. As a government, we are committed to working with local government to make it happen.”

The aim is to proactively lead local government reform in Northland; to have local mayors and councils on board, rather than reacting to legislative mandates in

Te Korowai o Poutama

Whānau Led Funeral Service

Te Korowai o Poutama kete is a response to the karanga of whānau to take care of their own loved ones when the time comes.

Our Kaiārahi will come to you and provide whānau the resources, advice, and assistance needed for preparation and ongoing cares throughout the tangihanga. We will also facilitate the logistics of ensuring all regulatory requirements of the whānau are met

isolation. If the central government listens to local input, and avoids a restrictive one-size-fits-all mentality in reforms to the Local Government Act and resource management, the end result should work better for citizens, the effective ‘customers’ of good governance.

District council mayors, the regional council chair, and chief executives from

each council got the ball rolling on February 5.

Submissions on local government reform and the planning role of councils, including discussions tabling the notion of a super-Kaipara aligned with Rodney and not Whangārei, will advance the arguments for independence or interdependency in March. ¢

For generations, young men from rural communities have made our Catholic boys school their home away from home. Scholarships available.

Fostering a spirit of partnership Cowboys and horsepower

u by Amy Fifita

The Mangawhai Museum welcomed human rights lawyer Roimata Smail for the Ti Tiriti lecture, as part of their Waitangi Day celebrations.

“It was a privilege to have a leader in the Te Tiriti discourse field come to us in Mangawhai and deliver such an accessible and engaging talk,” said museum manager Angela Cook.

Roimata says the atmosphere was characterised by curiosity and a willingness to listen and learn about the Treaty of Waitangi. A contentious topic in many circles, the talk sought to bring understanding.

“We are often told that Te Tiriti is too difficult or too divisive to talk about. Yet, when people are offered clear information and permission to not know everything, the tone shifts,” said Roimata.

“Waitangi Day was a reminder that many New Zealanders want to understand Te Tiriti more clearly and more calmly than our public debates sometimes suggest.

When learning is grounded, accurate and humane, it supports connection rather than division.”

Angela says they stock her book in the museum shop year-round because her insights into Te Tiriti are so valuable.

“Her books provide a clear outline of Te Tiriti, which many have said has helped them gain greater clarity than any other resource,” Angela said.

“We hope more of Mangawhai will explore partnership as part of Waitangi Day going forward — it is more than a holiday, it is a day to remember and honour our history.”

Upcoming events at the museum include the Wild Weather on February 24, Becoming Aotearoa on February 26 and Hands-on Storms on February 28. ¢

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• Qualified Arborists

• Chipping/Stump Grinding

• Land Clearing & Excavation

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• Tree Felling/Pruning

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u by Andy Bryenton

The ‘wild west town of the north’, Waimamaku, will roll out a whole new way to celebrate its local identity this month.

On February 28, the main street of Dargaville’s neighbour to the north will be filled with classic cars and hot rods, adding another event to the 2026 classic and vintage calendar. While organisers acknowledge that this coincides with the final day of the Northland Field Days, attendees spoken to by this publication opine that it’s not far to see the sights of both.

The classic wild west spirit of Waimamaku has been reflected in themed days before, with some even offering simulated showdowns between cowboy-movie styled desperadoes and the spectacle of cheese rolling. This time around, Waimamaku will echo to the rumble of big V8s from 9am to 3pm, and while there’ll be other visitors representing the wild west on horseback, the challenge is out for classic drivers to embrace the fashion sense of old Texas, too.

The organisers have booked a whole day of hot rod action, food stalls and trucks, music and markets. To add to the nostalgia time warp, the day ends with an old-fashioned rock ‘n’ roll dance just over the hill in scenic Opononi. From 6.30pm, the Opo Hall will be transformed into a vision from the golden era of hot rodding, and there’s even a supper on offer for those hungry after a long day of west coast hospitality and fun. ¢

A colourful expo returns Farm projects boost land use

u by Andy Bryenton

This year marks a decade of expos and market days at the Dargaville Sewing and Curtain Centre, run in parallel with the Northland Field Days just up the road.

An alternative to the big agricultural festival, concentrating instead on the art and creativity of sewing, the expo and market has long featured demonstrations of the latest machines by Janome, as well as plenty of crafty goodness to see, to buy and to be inspired by. It often fills the pavement around the sewing centre on Normanby Street, and stretches halfway around the block.

“Each year it has become more and more popular, so if you are visiting the field days, come and visit us too,” says Marion McEwing, who will host three days of learning and creative talent between February 26 to 28.

“If you would like a stall, there’s no charge for a space. Please let us know as soon as possible as it’s sure to be very popular.”

Patrons can expect a wide range of examples of the fabric and textile arts, from fashions to furnishings, quilting and knitting; if it’s woven or sewn it’s likely to take pride of place.

To get into the theme of field days fun, the sewing centre team will also host a challenge for fabric artists ahead of the market event. This year, the call is out to crafty locals to make an agriculturalthemed apron, either in an adult or children’s size, featuring patterns and images associated with farming life. Bring in your creation to the sewing centre by February 25, and it will be featured in a right window display, with winners announced on March 26. ¢

u by Paul Campbell

Paparoa farmers Wayne and Melinda Birt are underway with four projects focussed on protecting large areas of native bush, highly erodible hillsides, springs, waterways and wetlands with almost 12.5km of fencing completed to prepare areas for native planting.

“Streams were cleaned before fencing to provide good flow channels. The stream margins have good ground cover now, and the water generally flows clear. The bush areas are now developing a dense understorey,” the couple said.

The traditionally 240-hectare sheep and beef farm is fast moving to a beefonly unit, with around 300 breeding and finishing Angus cattle grazing alongside 70 sheep. The bulk of the land is leased from Wayne’s parents, Derek and Lynette Birt, with the property held by earlier generations of the family dating back to the 1880s.

The transition has happened with Kaipara Moana Remediation support and funding. Parts of the farm suffered severe damage after receiving 181mm of rain in late January 2023 in ex-tropical Cyclone Hale, followed by 350mm in Cyclone Gabrielle.

“People have helped us along the way. In our development journey we have spent hundreds of thousands of dollars, which will have circulated back into our Northland community. Without the spark

from KMR, it is quite possible we would still be at the start line,” says Wayne.

“The easier country has now pretty much been done, but the steeper land still requires some work, and we are still considering how this will best be done. Having the farm sufficiently developed will mean that the land can be farmed in a more environmentally friendly way.

“There have always been bush and trees on the farm. However, we are now set up to better protect the land and the environment. Vulnerable areas are protected and areas that can be better farmed, can then be safely intensified.” ¢

IN STORE & OUTSIDE THE STORE

Health & Safety Manuals including Policies & Procedures

Yearly health & safety updates

Staff Training

Farm Signage

Staff Meetings On Farm

Worker Accommodation

Inspections

Accident mitigation for clients

New farm staff inductions

Show day at Arapohue

u b Andy Bryenton

All the fun of a classic A&P show day unfolded at Arapohue on Saturday, and the morning drizzle did nothing to dampen the enthusiasm of the crowds.

Grant McCallum MP for Northland

by Andy Bryenton

Held to account

Digital identification is here, and it starts with your driver licence. In an increasingly electronic age, we’re told that having the ability to identify oneself through a mobile phone is all about convenience, but there are a lot of voices raised in caution. Taking a look at why raises the issue of oversight, and how it’s applied differently to you and me, and to those in authority.

First, the basics. A digital app from the NZTA is on its way to a phone near you, and it will not only help you to buy road user charges (planned to be something we all need to manage), it will also contain an official form of ID; your digital driver licence. So far so good. However, the concerns begin when the government talks about this shift being opt-in, in its initial stages.

That means critics of the plan can see a near future when you are mandated to carry a phone at all times. What a lovely bonus for the telcos. Enforced customers are the most profitable, and we wonder if prices will go down, or if phones will be provided to pensioners and the unemployed for free?

Critics posit a scenario where that phone can be accessed without your knowledge to harvest data about your movements, pinged by an AI-driven ‘papers please’ agent, and linked to facial recognition cameras. What you do, where you go, where you shop — these are valuable pieces of info for marketing gurus. Who you associate with, where you are allowed to go and when; all accessible. Some might insinuate that western governments are looking with envy at the digital web woven by communist China. Denounced as paranoid is the concept

that the authorities could simply turn you off as a person on a whim, for crimes such as being a whistleblower. Paperless, you might find yourself an illegal in your own country, say some digital ID opponents.

Then there’s that matter of accountability, and the big question. Will your ID, the thing that enables you to travel, drive, engage with commerce, visit the doctor and more, be held by the government or by a third party?

There’s a dire track record of digital security worldwide from third-party consultants, who are not subject to the accountability of an election, and who, if their firm enables a massive breach (or has a scandal selling data about you to the highest bidder) can fold their tents, declare bankruptcy, change their name and come back tomorrow.

Moreover, because it seems to work differently for those in authority. Digital ID means that the average citizen will be under greater surveillance than ever, the debate over whether this is benign or malignant notwithstanding. Meanwhile, more and more functions of government could be seconded to unaccountable private firms, where if someone in power performs poorly, they are often quietly removed to a new, highly paid post doing something else.

At the highest level of unaccountability lies the lack of any perceptible international political will to hold the most powerful to account for the sordid affair of Jeffrey Epstein. It’s an extreme case, but ‘one law for all’ must be preserved, and it’s the end point of a spectrum that begins with monitoring and tracking average folks, while removing the guardrails of meaningful oversight for power. ¢

Times Gone By

Turned turtle at Mangawhare

This scene of the steel-hulled barque Wai-iti was taken in January 1907. She was leaving the wharf at Mangawhare when a strong wind came up and blew her back on to the muddy bank of the Northern Wairoa River and then capsized. At 689 tons register, she was a hefty load indeed. It was Brown & Co that won the salvage tender to right the vessel so she could be towed south to Lyttleton for use as a coal hulk. The Wai-iti was built in Norway, in 1891, and was formerly named the Signe. She had been built for intercolonial trade and sailed under the Norwegian flag until she was purchased by Timaru-based Turnbull and Son Ltd in 1906. In 1913, the vessel caught fire and was nearly destroyed. Her registry was closed in 1924; she was later beached and left to quietly rust.

Image credit: Auckland Libraries Heritage Collections

Healthy harbour alongside productive land

u by Tania Slater

Ōtamatea HarbourCare (OHC) is an incorporated society providing local landowners from within the Maungatūroto and Paparoa areas with low-cost native plants for riparian and erosion-prone plantings.

Seed is collected locally in the autumn, prepared for germination and then sent off to a nursery specialising in propagation.

The OHC nursery is managed by Mark MacKenzie in Paparoa with the help of volunteers of all ages, with the intent of reducing the sediment that enters the Kaipara Harbour.

The Kaipara Harbour is the largest natural harbour in the Southern Hemisphere, with the catchment spanning 6,000km². It’s a national treasure, and has deep environmental and cultural values, with many taonga species and

and shellfish, fencing and planting can result in enhanced diversity of plant, bird and insect life on the land. The extra fencing can also improve stock and pasture management and productivity.

Propagation for the 2026 planting season is now well underway at the nursery. The local homeschool group and other regular volunteers have potted up 31,000 plants for the season. Plants will be ready for distribution in May–August 2026.

Species available for planting in 2026 include:

Now is the time to start thinking about site preparation for your planting project

some of the rarest ecosystems in New Zealand, including sand-dune, seagrass, and freshwater and estuarine wetland ecosystems. However, the quality of its water and marine life is being damaged by run-off from the surrounding countryside, having been triggered by the initial bush clearance in the 19th century.

The Ōtamatea HarbourCare Society is committed to reversing this by supporting landowners who are fencing and planting riparian and eroded areas.

As well as improving the quality of the water and boosting the numbers of fish

• Flax

• Cabbage trees

• Mānuka

• Giant wetland grasses

• Coprosma

Now is the time to start thinking about site preparation for your planting project in the 2026 season. Potential areas include wetlands, waterways, areas affected by erosion, and any other water-prone areas that may affect the Harbour.

For more information or to book your plants, please contact us — otamateaharbourcare.org.nz. ¢

TIMBER

BATTENS

Celebrating 40 years of family fun

by Paul Campbell

It’s not just for the rural community, our farmers and their supporting industries; it’s a series of days out for complete family fun when town meets country at the Northland Field Days on Thursday, February 26 to Saturday, February 28.

Awakino Road showgrounds will once again celebrate, this time the 40th anniversary of the event and if you have your proof of being 40 years old, too, you may get free entry to the biggest agri-event in the north.

“There will be entertainment galore in rides and competitions, food and refreshments, and for the more serious minded, of course, there’s a showcase of the latest in farming technology, machinery and innovations

that will attract visitors from across the country and overseas,” says Northland Field Days event coordinator Luciana Schwarz.

The expertise and products for the rural industry are a magnet across the world, so field days 2026 invites the whole family to come together to celebrate the Northland region and inspect the offerings of more than 300 exhibitors. There are two large lifestyle pavilions and many outdoor lifestyle sites bringing to you the

highest-quality products and services, from home, garden and leisure to food, wine and gadgets — there is something for everyone. There’s a chance to go home with prizes, including an outboard motor and a quad bike from Honda. There will certainly be the show staples that always attract crowds from the sheepdog trials to the tractor pulls, lawn mower racing and more. There’s a chance of a big bonus, too; you can go in the draw to win a North Travel trip to Niue.

Live music keeps things bouncing along with Dave Ewart and his blend of country rock, rock ‘n’ roll and easy-listening. There are three food court areas clearly marked throughout the event with many food vendors, coffee, refreshments, ice cream and plenty of food product samples. For the petrol heads and enthusiasts, lawn mower racing allows people of all walks of life to get involved, compete and have a lot of fun or just be a spectator. If energy flags, there’s always time to

sit and just enjoy the parade riding on the Mack replica for truck fanatics of all ages; it’s a great way to get around the field days. Although technically not a truck, the converted Mini is a crowd favourite. Its powertrain is a 1,275cc four-cylinder engine (the British Leyland Mini’s original A-series motor), and it’s armed with discs on the front and drums on the back. The vehicle does about 20 events a year, usually for charity, using the Mini’s pull-trailer to give event patrons a unique ride.

A time-honoured event is the longrunning tractor pull competition on the 100m track for novices, experienced drivers and spectators to enjoy on Power Farming Road and experience the fun and thrill of rural racing that tests brute

strength, skill and technique. The popular sheepdog trials are part of the DNA for both town and country, and all ages are captivated by the best sheepdogs from around Northland in competition.

If time out is needed, head off to the sunflower rest area between Power Farming Road and Norwood Road or cool off in style with all-day water fun near Norwood Road.

There’s still plenty of fun to go in the all-day Laser Clay Shooting at sites A19 to A22 on Rowland Road as well as the allday Maze in the Maize between Norwood Road and Can-Am Off-Road.

Community support will be well represented with the Northern Rescue helicopter team on-site, and also available will be HeliNorth scenic helicopter rides

on Gillat Lane. The volunteers from the Dargaville Fire Brigade will be there with firefighting equipment, displays and information. They will have activities throughout the day.

For more petrol enthusiast’s activities, take in the Kauri Coast 4WD competition on Gillat Lane and Northern Lane or the motocross drag competition demonstration area on Rowland Road. While the field days are family fun, the exhibitors are not forgotten.

The committee behind the scenes takes steps to facilitate the comfort of all stakeholders, including exhibitors and usage by other community organisations to host their own events.

More permanent toilet blocks, shade, safe pedestrian access and walkways

remain high on the priority list. In addition, field days organisers continue to financially support many community organisations and clubs with fundraising opportunities and affordable sites to charitable groups to help them with their existence and goals.

It reinvests back into rural Northland with provision of other community funding in the form of study grants and awards for individuals and organisations to assist.

Each year people from the public, who are not associated with the Northland Field Days Committee, judge exhibitor sites for the Best Outdoor Site, Best Indoor Site and Best New Site. Along with a trophy, winners will get their site free in next year’s event. ¢

Welcome to the 40th Northland Field Days

This year we are here not only to celebrate this great agricultural event that is held annually in Dargaville, but to celebrate everyone who has been involved in making it happen for the past

Firstly, I would like to acknowledge the Dargaville Jaycees, who started this event back in 1985 at the Dargaville Racecourse. The original event was a dream that has become a reality. It is now a successful annual event that has seen changes and much growth over the last 40 years.

To the many exhibitors that have been attending the Northland Field Days since the beginning, to the ones that have been coming for a while and to the new ones that are giving it a go for the first time, we celebrate you — you being here makes the Northland Field Days!

It takes hundreds of volunteers annually to bring such a huge event to Northland, and we are very thankful to everyone who gets involved. Many of you hold down fulltime jobs, and you spend your time both after work and on your weekends to help make this all possible. We on the field days committee acknowledge and thank you sincerely for your help. We wouldn’t be here without your help and commitment to the event.

The lifestyle sector has grown a lot in our region since the Northland Field Days first started, and we can’t leave this important part of our event out. So be

p Field Days president Mr John Phillips welcomes exhibitors and guests to a very special 40th anniversary event

sure to check out the lifestyle exhibitors and the many different events that are happening throughout the event site. We would like to wish all event visitors,

exhibitors and volunteers three great days of Northland Field Days. We hope that you can enjoy what many exhibitors have on offer, with the newest innovations in

the agricultural sector, along with their technological expertise, support and plenty of deals to be had over the next three days.

Thank you once again for making us the Friendly Field Days.

John Phillips, President ¢

NORTHLAND FIELD DAYS FEATURED SITES

The taste of field days

u by Andy Bryenton

The Northland Field Days offers more than just things to see and do; there’s plenty to taste and savour as well. Check out this list of culinary options to look out for when you visit the field days food courts in 2026.

Food Court One

You’ll find Turkish and Kiwi fusion food from Surmeneli, American-style street food and coffee from J and J Catering, real fruit ice creams by Camkiwi Trading, salad bowls and hot bread roll sandwiches from Nothing Fancy Streetfood. Classic gourmet burgers, hotdogs, fish and chips, loaded fries and fruit ice cream by the Blue Lady, Donutlicious doughnuts, pāua and cream and mussel fritters from Missy’s Kai Kart, and hot and ice coffees and brownies by Bean on the Scene.

Food Court Two — the ITM-sponsored food court

Fresh pasta, loaded fries, chicken bites and ragu from Pasta Lovers joins

New Zealand Whitebait Fritters with their signature dish as well as bacon and egg sandwiches, delicious seafood, chowder and cream paua by Tasty Tucker. The serious taste sensation of Grownup Donuts, low and slow and smoked meat deliciousness from the BBQ Pitstop, Nepali-style momo dumplings from NZ Momo, fresh strawberries and desserts from the Strawberry Lady, and the classic selections right out of the van by Mr Whippy.

Food Court Three — the Kaipara Refuse sponsored food court

Mr Whippy will deploy a van here too, for ice-cold treats, right next door to Churro Loco with their delectable churros, fresh p

ATTENTION FARMERS

BAG

and international

wraps with a choice of fillings by Wraps and More, woodfired pizza creations by Missoni Woodfired Pizza. Snow cones, mini doughnuts, steak and egg rolls and chips by Jax N All, fresh watermelon juice, fruit smoothies and tropical trifles from Tropical Sunrise. Mouthwatering butter chicken, burgers, wings, prawn skewers, calamari and lamb nachos by My Kitchen On Wheels, mussel and whitebait fritters, hot rolls and hot dogs from Ka Pai Kai.

Barbecue meals with steak, loaded fries and creamed pāua by Munchies Kai Kart, and ice cream with chocolate-covered strawberries at Kiwi Berries. The market zone

Stop while you shop to enjoy hot coffee, candy floss, chowder with frybread, hot rolls and toasties at Mauri Kai, the barista coffee cart. Cool down with a sweet treat by Shaved Ice Real Fruit Ice Cream. ¢

Five decades of dedication

u by Andy Bryenton

On February 2 1976, a new proprietor took possession of the longestablished firm of Lowther Engineering in Ruawai, keen to forge a future as his own boss.

Taking over from Jim Lowther after a 23-year tenure was Bruce Crompton, and this month he and his team celebrate 50 years of serving the west Kaipara region as engineers.

“I worked with my uncle in Auckland, in Cartwright Road, out west, then moved north to Whangārei. I had been married only 16 days when I took over, and my wife has been my biggest supporter ever since,” says Bruce.

On the list of stalwart supporters alongside his spouse, Bruce lists Jim Lowther, the previous owner of his workshop. Jim stayed on, and was very supportive in that transition period in the late 70s, says Bruce, who called getting into business for himself a learning experience, despite his background in heavy engineering.

“It was a case of adjusting and learning as I went along. Sometimes, I had to adapt. When I developed the field roller, I had to build my own machine to roll the plates of metal into a drum shape.”

Crompton products in their distinctive green are a common sight on local farms. Bruce says there is still innovation to be done, as engineering is about finding solutions. An example is in the floodgates protecting Ruawai from the sea. The Kaipara District Council has been a big part of Bruce’s business recently, as he’s designed and constructed bespoke flood control solutions that can’t be bought off the shelf.

What’s been the most rewarding part of 50 years in engineering?

“It’s about seeing the bigger jobs completed and working properly,” he says. “For example, I still recall the satisfaction of completing a big conveyor system for the Avoca Limeworks long ago, seeing it completed and working was great.”

Then there’s Bruce and his team’s foundational work in developing kūmara harvesting machinery; another unique Ruawai milestone. During his long career, Ruawai’s local engineer has worked on everything from small pumps for local homes through to helping build the immense Marsden B power station, and raising the Dargaville bridge.

“I reckon we could likely run a whole rugby tournament with the people we’ve employed over the years,” says Bruce.

“Having skilled and stable staff is a necessity. That knowledge base is very important, and it’s a real concern that certain skills and forms of knowledge could be lost if there’s no new training coming through.”

Bruce has done his part, with many young people learning about engineering in his business through the decades. He’s also garnered praise and accolades from his business peers and local customers.

“Well, there was one fellow who said I was a bad businessman and wouldn’t last long,” he says, contemplating 50 years of success.

“I’m proud to say a handful of my customers are third generation. Their grandads came to me, and their fathers, now them. That’s satisfying.” ¢

“Well I dunno rilly Dog, but wen I was a lad we hada good time at show wen they had dodgems. That was little ‘lectric cars wot yer cood crash inter each other ona ‘lectric grid. Great fun.”

Gidday readas, that wasa Boss ’membering stuff wile we checked tha troffs ona farm after we had just a bit rein to top them up. I wondered wot Boss was on about but ona woolshed steps fer smoko, he told his gerlfren’ Sharlene about dodgems again.

“Y’see Deah, I reckin that wen they had proper ’Mericas Cup sailin’ races and big boats and big sails lookin’ majectic it was a good thing, but now alla racing in small fast catty things mor like dodgems atta

fair ina old days.” Well, Sharlene hada papa open an’ she tole Boss: “Yep Deah, I see wot yer meen, a small course an’ lotsa boats altogther; it’s not the same asa old days. An’ look wot’s happined, too. The Kiwis hada reel mixup and crashed inter the Frenchies, an’ did heeps of damage and badly hurt a cupla blokes. I reckin it’s all got outta hand an’ got nothin’ ter do with sailin’ any more. More like who got the fastest water dodgem, eh?”

Boss refilled his cuppatees an’ she slipped me a pikelit wile he wasn’t lookin’.

“Yes Deah, I reckin grand sailin’ was more romantic in the old days instead of all hitech hi-speed stuff. Them old ’Merica’s Cup skippers must be turnin’ ina graves.”

That had me a bit puzzild readas But Sharlene showed me a pitcher on her lappytop, an’ I saw how big them old boats were. Much betta I reckin.

But Sharlene was lookin’ atta weather on her lappytop, an’ tole Boss she was glad we was ina Kaipra an’ not down country.

“Lookit us hear, ina brite sunshin havina cuppa and down the road its water everwear.”

She read in her skoolteecher voice: “An orange heavy rain warning is in force for Gisborne and Hawke’s Bay Sunday until early Monday. Between 100 and

150 millimetres of rain is forecast, 20 to 30 mm per hour on Sunday night and Monday morning.

“Parts of Waikato were hit by severe flooding, slips and heavy rain overnight, causing widespread flooding and evacuations. More than 80 people evacuated from Otorohanga after an overnight local State of Emergency.”

Boss was a bit quiet then. “Yer rite Deah, but we’ve hada batterin’ froma rain before. Like wen it closed them Brinderwins and flood ina Kaipra, too. Seems wiv that climate thingy, no one’s rilly safe anymore.”

Sharlene agreed an’ looked again at her lappytop, witch I borrow ter write this readas.

“Even those water dodgem races bin affected too Deah. Seems the whether is dictatin’ everthing these days.”

Boss finished his cuppatees an’ sed Sharlene was right. But he sed “c’mon Dog, we betta make hey wile the sun shines.”

I guess that meens we gotta go ta work ona farm. Wot’s hey gotta do with it, not sure. But that’s justa Boss. Likes ter be busy, s’long as it’s not reinin’.”

See ya readas — Billy ¢

Putting the bite on erosion

u by Andy Bryenton

The coalition government aims to further protect productive land by committing nearly $28 million for erosion control projects, says Agriculture and Forestry Minister Todd McClay.

Applications for funding support under the Hill Country Erosion Programme (HCEP) opened in early February, and councils across the country were invited to submit proposals for eligible projects. This round allocates $27.8 million for erosion control work to be delivered between 2027 and 2031.

Erosion in hilly land is a leading problem facing both agriculture and ecology. Siltation of rivers and harbours, slips and damage to pastureland below can all be attributed to the collapse of steep hillsides. Earlier practices of denuding hills, from an era where erosion and its effects were less well understood, have been replaced with proactive management.

For example, in Kaipara, home to the biggest harbour in New Zealand, a programme of riparian planting to protect water quality was expanded, on the review of research data, to include planting on steep hillsides too. The effects are measurable, predictable and positive.

economic impacts of erosion on local communities.”

The HCEP is not a new plan; it’s been working steadily since its inception in 2007. It’s a partnership between the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI), councils and landowners providing funding support in fouryear blocks to regional erosioncontrol projects that are beyond the capacity of councils to address on their own. By tackling the bigpicture side of erosion control, flow-on effects have propagated down to the grassroots level.

or existing walls. Able to be applied between milkings during summer months

Suitable for repairing damaged dairy floors or slippery areas

Applied by contractor or supplied as a DIY kit

The government’s HCEP initiative helps to reduce the impacts of severe weather events, protect soil health, and limit downstream damage, too.

“This programme is one of our most effective tools for supporting farmers and growers to protect their land and prepare for future storms,” said Mr McClay.

“We want to continue safeguarding productive farmland around the country, while reducing the environmental and

Te Uru Rākau, the New Zealand Forest Service, has a current $25.2 million investment in the programme, supported by $87 million in cash and in-kind contributions from 14 partner councils and landowners, reflecting their support. The funding has been targeted towards councils delivering regionally tailored programmes. These include treating vulnerable land, working with landowners to develop farm-scale erosioncontrol plans, and building regional capability.

DARGAVILLE 6673 State Highway 12

The Ultimate Family Lifestyle Property

Privately set behind timber gates and a palm-lined driveway, this lifestyle haven offers warmth, character, and exceptional outdoor living. The home features macrocarpa ceilings, a cosy gas fire, and great flow to a covered deck overlooking landscaped grounds. Four double bedrooms include a master with ensuite, supported by a functional kitchen and internal double garage. A fully self-contained one-bedroom unit adds excellent versatility for guests, extended family, or hobbies.

With fruit trees, vegetable garden, and eight paddocks, this property delivers space, privacy, and true rural living.

DARGAVILLE 76B Murdoch Street

Perfect Lifestyle Opportunity - Outskirts of Town

This generous 4161 sqm section offers space, privacy and convenience in a handy location. Set back from the road, the property is flat and ready for your dream build, with power, water and sewage connections already in place. The surrounding area boasts substantial homes, creating a quality neighbourhood that's ideal for families looking for room to grow. With plenty of scope to design the home you've always wanted, this section combines rural tranquility with easy access to town amenities. Vendors are highly motivated, so don't miss your chance to secure this exceptional piece of land.

OVER $250,000 E cindy.younger@pggwrightson.co.nz M 027 278 2309

BAYLYS BEACH

Welcome

WHAT’S ON?

February

Tupuna Parenting Foundations Dargaville — Mon 2 Feb to 30 Mar Dargaville Plunket Clinic, 29 Hokianga Rd. Join us for an 8-week wananga series exploring matauranga Maori through whakatauki purakau, learn practical ways to indigenise your parenting and strengthen your connection to your whakapapa. Contact Whaea Cherrie at cherrie.christy-hita@plunket. org.nz.

Te Uri o Hau Tangata Development — Mon 16–Fri 20 Feb 11am–2.30pm. Free Disability Law Workshops. Running free workshops about disability law to help people understand. For tangata whaikaha, whanau and people who support them. Plain language. No legal knowledge needed.

Inland Revenue Clinic — Tues 24 Feb Heartland Sevices, Whanau Focus Bldg, 61 Victoria St. Bookings essential. 09 439 7009 or 021 245 3765. Northland Field Days — 26, 27, 28 Feb. Gate times: Thu & Fri 9am to 4pm Sat 9am to 3.30pm. Adults $13, Child $5, under 5 free, Family $30. Friday Jam Night — 27 Feb from 5.30pm. Bar & meals available. Members and guests welcome. Dargaville Club, 53–55 Victoria St. Ph 09 439 8211. March

Dargaville ANZAC Theatre — Hokianga Rd, 2 Mar @ 6.30pm. Short movies collection, geared to inspire with a breathtaking range of short cycling films that celebrate the fun, adventure and inspiration that cycling brings. Everything a cycle-centric audience could want.

SPCA — 4 Mar cnr SH12 & Victoria St. LOOK FOR THE FLAG flea treatment $10, worm treatment $3. Pet care advice. Emergency Pet Food.

Markets

Kaihu Hall Market — 4th Saturday each month 10am–noon. Phone Robin 09 439 4878.

Monthly Market — 1st Saturday of each month, 8am–noon at the Kaipara Community Centre, Hokianga Road (opposite the Town Hall).

Paparoa Farmers’ Market — Every Saturday 9am–12pm. Genuine local produce, vegetables, seafood, olive oils, meats, patisserie, plants and more. Village Green, Paparoa.

Te Kopuru Market — 2nd Saturday of each month, 9am–1pm at Coronation Hall. Stall holders ring Rachel on 021 133 7560.

Clubs/Organisations

57 Squadron (Dargaville) Air Training Corps — Mondays 6pm–8pm at the Dargaville Aero Club. For boys and girls aged 13–18 years Phone Gordon 021 262 0547.

Alcoholics Anonymous — Dargaville meetings, Lighthouse Church, cnr Parore St and Normanby St, Monday 4.30pm & Anglican Church hall, 58 Hokianga Rd, Thursday 7.30pm. Top of drive, parking available. More help 0800 229 6757.

Alzheimer’s ‘Carer’ Support Group — Contact Maxine on 022 691 6068.

AMRAP Boxfit — Saturdays 7am–8am @ Selwyn Park School Hall. $10. If you have your own gloves and wraps please bring them with you. Ph: 022 424 6685, email: amrapboxing@gmail.com.

Anger Management Group — Thursdays 6pm–7.30pm 1/12 Kapia Street, Dargaville. Helena 021 564 618 or 09 601 4153.

Baylys & Beyond Gardeners — 2nd Monday of each month. Garden ramble, shared lunch, trading table phone 021 063 3444.

Blind Low Vision Support Group — Meets 10.30am, last Monday of the month, alternatively at Dargaville and Ruawai. Phone Noelene 09 439 0033 for more info. Chess Club — All welcome, Wednesdays 6.30pm Dargaville, gold coin donation. Phone Stephen 09 439 8819.

Circus Kumarani All Ages Circus Class — Come along and learn some circus, casual or full term. 15 Onslow St, Dargaville, Tuesdays 3.45–4.45pm; and Paparoa Memorial Hall, Thursdays 4–5pm. www. circuskumarani.co.nz/classes. Check out the School Holiday programs.

Citizens Advice Bureau — Dargaville & districts now at Parenga Street (between the Menz Shed and My Accountants).

Dancing Kaiwaka — Wed mornings from 9.30am. Keep fit mentally and physically, great crowd, morning tea, first 2 sessions free. Come try it, it’s fun. Wear soft shoes, nothing else required except a smile. Bevan Lawrence 027 617 652.

Dargaville Aero Club — Learn to fly, free of tuition charges, Gyrocopter, Texan, Stork. Contact Peter 022 025 0235 for further info.

Dargaville Bowling Club Tuesday Bowls — Names by 9.30am, start 10am, finish 2.30pm. Contact Ray King 09 439 5509

Dargaville Club Jam Nights — every second Friday, 5.30pm start.

Dargaville Club — 55 Victoria Street, open Wednesday and Friday from 5pm. Members and guests welcome.

Dargaville Community Garden — at Kumarani Creative Centre, 15 Onslow St. Open day 2nd Saturday of the month, come along from 10am–1pm for a cuppa, swap crops, seeds and ideas. Email classes@ circuskumarani.co.nz to find out more.

Dargaville Contact Bridge Club — Tuesdays 12.45pm and Wednesdays 6.45pm at the Kiosk, Memorial Park, Logan St, Dargaville. dargavillebridge@gmail.com or phone Peter 09 439 2437 or 022 405 6439.

Dargaville Darts Club — Every Wednesday, 6pm start, at Dargaville Club, 55 Victoria Street.

Dargaville Firearm & Military Collectors Club — 3rd Friday of every second month at Lions Club Hall, Hokianga Road, at 7.30pm. Phone Alec Melville 027 215 1833.

Dargaville Friendship Club for seniors — 2nd Tuesday of month at 10am at the Kiosk, Memorial Park, Logan Street. Phone Brian or Barbara 09 439 5959.

Dargaville Mainly Music — Interactive music and movement for preschoolers and their carers. Wednesdays 10am Baptist church, Victoria St, during term time. Contact Rebecca 021 969 626.

Dargaville Man Up — every Monday 6.30pm at Te Arohanui Hall, Victoria St. Phone David 021 0849 3670.

Dargaville Medieval Combat Club — Wednesday each week 6.30–8.30pm, Kaipara Community Centre, Hokianga Road. $15 per lesson. Equipment provided. Contact Kurt 022 622 7809.

Dargaville Menz Shed — Tuesday and Thursday each week from 10am to 3pm and Saturday from 10am to noon. For more info phone Paul 027 459 3098 or Brian 09 439 6175.

Dargaville Museum — Open 7 days per week. Hours 9am–4pm April to October, 9am–5pm October to April. Phone 09 439 7555.

Dargaville Plunket Playgroup — 10am–midday. Held every Thursday, 29 Hokianga Rd at the Dargaville Plunket Rooms. Free service, coffee and tea provided. Check our FB page for further details.

Dargaville Public Library — Get Help from a DigiCoach. Mon–Fri 10am–2pm. 1:1 Support. Friendly local trainers. FREE.

Dargaville Riverside Taha Awa Garden Trust Join them in overseeing the running of the Garden. Contact Sheena 021 439 157 or email dargavilleriversidegarden@gmail.com.

Dargaville Scout Group — For boys and girls aged 5–99 years at 23 Onslow St. All info on door or phone Johnnita 027 296 5889.

Dargaville Tabletop Wargames and RPGs — Games like Dungeons & Dragons, Warhammer or other strategy games. Thursdays 6.30pm, Hokianga Road, upstairs above the cinema.

Phone: 09 439 6933 or 0800 466 793 Email: info@rml.nz

Postal Address: PO Box 474, Dargaville Physical Address: 107 River Road, Dargaville

Editor: Andy Bryenton

Journalists: Andy Bryenton 021 439 947 | Amy Fifita 027 259 6455 | Paul Campbell

Advertising: Olivia Green 027 525 8197 | Sue Girven 027 525 7984

Classifieds: 09 439 6933 | info@rml.nz

Production: Gavin Bainbridge | Marnie Fuller | Daniel Foster | Liz Clark

Accounts: accounts@rml.nz

Distribution: Laurie Willetts Printed by: NZME Website: kaiparalifestyler.co.nz

Dargaville Yoga — Yoga for every Bodhi at the Pono lodge. Tuesday mornings 9.30am. Thursdays evenings 6pm. Mats available, everyone welcomed. Find us on Facebook @stretchyourbodhi. Contact Diane 027 371 5274.

Drop in meditation — 5.30–6pm Thursdays at Bring Balance, Kaipara Community Centre (side entrance), 38 Hokianga Rd. The room is open from 5pm, all welcome. Koha/Dana. www.bringbalance.co.nz, 021 0231 8008.

Girls’ Brigade — Thursdays 3–5pm at the Lighthouse Church, for girls 5–18 years. Register online at 1st Dargaville Girls Brigade 2025 registrations. Find us on FB & Instagram or phone 021 263 7446.

Hikuwai O Kaipara Waka Ama Club — NW Boating Club, 5pm Mondays and Thursdays from 5pm for Awa training.

Housie — Every third Monday of the month at 1.30pm, Dargaville Bowling Club. Janice Allan 027 355 7434. JP Service — Every Thursday at the Whanau Focus Office, 12–1pm, walk in only. Come and have your documents verified and we also photocopy important documents like Passports, Birth Certificates and Driver Licences free of charge. Call 021 245 3765 or 09 439 7009, 61 Victoria Street, Dargaville.

Kaihu Valley Music Club — 3rd Sunday of the Month at Kaihu Hall on Woods Road. 1pm–4pm. Enquires to John or May 09 439 0827.

Kaipara Cycling — Calendar of Rides — Thursday 3.45pm–5.30pm Junior Mountainbike Coaching. Contact Sadie 022 453 4475. Friday Ride-day 10am–noon. Social Ride on road and gravel roads. E-bike and analogue welcome. Phone Karen 021 0226 4001. Riding from Dargaville… call the above to find out more details.

Kaipara Grey Power — third Friday of each month February to November. Contact 09 439 7801 or 09 439 4452.

Kaipara Heritage Machinery Club — Open 7 days. Something to interest both men and women, come and get involved. Phone 021 106 3635 or 027 472 1269.

Kaipara Bootscooters (Beginner line dancing classes) — Every Monday 5.30pm to 7.30pm and Thursday 10am to noon. First hour is beginner and second hour is higher beginner. Dalmation Hall, Normanby St, Dargaville. Contact Donna 021 729 955.

Lions Club of Ruawai — 3rd Thursday of the month (social) and 1st Thursday of the month (business). Contact Dorothy on 09 439 2557.

Lions Dargaville — 2nd Wednesday of the month in Lions Den, Hokianga Road. Contact John 09 439 5937.

Maungaturoto AA Meeting — Mondays 7pm at the Maungaturoto Community House, 155 Hurndall St, Maungaturoto. Contact Carolyn 021 828 055.

Maungaturoto Gardening Club — 3rd Thursday of every month. In winter. Centennial Hall, Maungaturoto. Other months visit gardens in the area. New members welcome. $15 to join — first 3 visits FREE. Please contact Gloria 021 100 8153 for more info.

Maungaturoto High Tea — Good food and company with a dash of fun. 14th Feb, then every 1st Saturday of the month. Book with Kirsten 021 180 7321.

Northern Wairoa Country Music Club — 1st Sunday of the month at the Scout Hall, 23 Onslow Street 1–4pm. Enquiries to Kathleen 021 077 7697.

Northern Wairoa Genealogy Society — Learn how to trace your family history or understand DNA at Dargaville Museum, 2nd and 4th Sundays of each month, 12.30–2pm and at other times by appointments. Phone Sue 021 608 606. Northern Wairoa Golf Club — Twilight Golf every Thursday. Tee off 4–6pm.

Northern Wairoa Indoor Bowls Assn — 7pm Mondays at Anglican Church Hall, Tuesdays at Ruawai-Tokatoka Hall, Wednesdays at Dalmatian Hall. Contact Warren Younger 027 478 5102 or evenings 09 439 6155. NZ 60s Up Movement — Dargaville Social Meetings held at the Lighthouse Function Centre on 1st Tuesday of the month. Contact Margaret Pinny 09 439 4560. Paparoa Box Fit — $10. Stretching/cardio/boxing. Paparoa Memorial Hall, every Wednesday 6–7pm. Paparoa Dance to Music — $5. Stretching/balance/ resistance bands/Zumba, Paparoa Memorial Hall, every Tuesday 10.30–11.30am.

Paparoa Kids Fun Class — $5. Learning/Music/ Dodge Ball/Limbo, Paparoa Memorial Hall, Every Friday 3–4pm.

Parkinson’s Support Group — Saturdays 8am–9am @ Selwyn Park School Hall. Counterpunch Boxing $5. Ph 022 424 6685 email: amrapboxing@gmail.com. Peggy Purls in our Community — Every 3rd Wednesday 10.30am at Dargaville Sewing and Curtain Centre, 59 Normanby St. Ring Charlene 09 439 6120.

Petanque — social play. Mondays 9.15 till 11.30, $2, fun exercise, all equipment supplied at Sportsville. Judy 09 439 7920.

Recovery Support Group — Mondays 6.30pm–9pm. 1/12 Kapia Street, Dargaville. Chrissy 09 601 4153 or 021 564 618.

Rock ’n’ Roll Lessons — Thursdays, 6.30pm–7.30pm at Dalmatian Hall, 20 Normanby St. $2 per person. Text Kirsty 021 0818 7902 for more info.

Rotary Club of Dargaville — Weekly on Wednesdays, 11.30am –1pm at the Lions Centre in Hokianga Road. Men and women. Phone Brian 09 439 6175. RSA Women’s Section — Social meeting held at the Clubrooms, 4th Monday of the month. Contact Noeline Wright 027 733 7396.

Ruawai Bowling Club — new members welcome. For info call Alison 027 243 5454.

Ruawai Gardening Club — 3rd Thursday of every month, Feb to Nov at the Ruawai Bowling Club, 10am start. Phone Merle 09 439 2335.

Scottish Country Dancing Kaiwaka — Memorial Hall beginning 9.30am Wed 28th January. Great fun, great group, any age, no partner required, bring a friend, morning tea provided, first two weeks are free. Do try it. Phone Elaine 027 432 0032.

Stepping Out Leisure Marching Team — Tuesday 4pm–5pm at the Dargaville Dalmatian Hall, 20 Normanby St. Contact Sharon 027 439 5634 or 09 439 5634.

Stitches and Crafts — 31 Logan St, Dargaville. 10.30am–4pm, Tuesday and Friday. Contact Edith & Mike 021 439 675.

Strength & Conditioning — Baylys Beach Community Centre, Mondays and Fridays. 9am–10am, $10 per session. Call Tony 022 311 8447.

TIDE CHART

POINT

WED 18 5:59am (0.5m) 12:11pm (3.4m) 6:23pm (0.5m) THU 19 12:32am (3.3m) 6:36am (0.4m) 12:48pm (3.4m) 7:00pm (0.4m) FRI 20 1:10am (3.3m) 7:14am (0.4m) 1:25pm (3.4m) 7:38pm (0.4m) SAT 21 1:47am (3.3m) 7:52am (0.5m) 2:04pm (3.4m) 8:17pm (0.4m)

5:29am

11:58am (2.7m) 6:00pm (0.4m) MON 23 12:19am (2.6m) 6:16am (0.6m) 12:45pm (2.6m) 6:47pm (0.5m) TUE 24 1:08am (2.6m) 7:08am (0.7m) 1:35pm (2.6m) 7:37pm (0.6m)

PUZZLE TIME

68 Tagged (anag)(6)

69 Felt compassion for (6)

71 Cooking implement (6,3)

76 Chief manservant (6)

77 Cheerfully irresponsible (9)

79 Tramp (7)

81 Zero (3)

84 Snow-rain mixture (5)

30 Food from milk (6)

31 Court hearing (5)

32 Cleric (6)

34 Flue deposit (4)

36 Derision (5)

38 Old-fashioned (5)

40 Short skirt (4)

45 Girl’s name (5)

46 Modified (7)

47 Is indebted to (4)

48 Rubbed out (6)

Essential (9)

22 Baited (6)

25 Ruler (9) 27 Lyrical (6)

(10)

35 Fled (3)

36 Tobacco user (6)

37 Pleased (4)

39 One of the

(6)

scenery mover (9)

59 Diminished (6)

60 Plodded wearily (7)

61 Distress code (3)

63 Fish traps (4)

64 Fanatic (6)

65 Digit (3)

66 Bid taker (10)

85 Amendment (10)

86 Foe (5)

87 Precise (5)

88 Extremely pale (2,5,2,1,5)

89 Sea mammal (5) DOWN

2 Sly (6)

3 Peer (5)

5 Unlock (4)

6 Floating cold lump (7)

7 Cooking-pot stand (6)

8 Leaves (5)

9 Disconcert, rattle (7)

10 Poverty (4)

11 Atom cores (6)

12 Cold dish (5)

13 Experienced sailor (3,4)

14 Fruit flower (7)

18 One on foot (10)

23 Roost (5)

24 Of crucial importance (7)

26 Subjugate (7)

27 In Greek mythology, the first mortal woman (7)

29 Temperature scale (7)

49 Explosion (5)

50 Oven-cooked (7)

52 City in England (10)

53 Supplements to a book (7)

54 Cricket team (6)

55 Halcyon (7)

56 Tossed pole (5)

57 Greek B (4)

62 Pungent (5)

67 Amalgam user (7)

68 Smiled broadly (7)

70 Black-market (7)

72 Chapter (anag)(7)

73 Precious stones (6)

74 Film holder (6)

75 Smooth hard coating (6)

76 Become swollen (5)

78 Weatherproof garment (5)

80 Large American farm (5)

82 Hankering (4)

83 Expectation (4)

Fill the grid so that every column, every row and every 3x3 box contains the digits 1 to 9.

ACROSS: 1 Acute, 4 Wild-goose chase, 11 Pivot, 14 Ample, 15 Entertained, 16 Personal, 19 Mountie, 20 Admit, 21 Dreariest, 24 Enchilada, 26 Ounces, 27 Trying, 31 Purse, 32 Eligible, 34 Atmosphere, 38 Anarchy, 39 Hawaii, 40 Reggae, 41 Rang, 42 Gallows, 45 Sauerkraut, 50 Annoyed, 54 Etch, 55 Scribe, 56 Napkin, 57 Applied, 60 Tenderness, 61 Worsened, 62 Skate, 65 Crease, 66 Tricky, 67 Affecting, 72 Navigator, 73 Stand, 74 Triumph, 79 Heaviest, 80 Incredulous, 81 Minus, 82 Doing, 83 A red rag to a bull, 84 Index. DOWN: 2 Common, 3 Talon, 5 Inns, 6 Dreaded, 7 Obtain, 8 Skin, 9 Clearing, 10 Eyelid, 11 Postscript, 12 Vine, 13 Telling, 17 Bight, 18 Watertight, 22 Slyly, 23 Literacy, 25 Nostril, 26 Obelisk, 28 Guinea, 29 Abrade, 30 Sonata, 33 Guava, 35 Edged, 36 Chew, 37 Area, 42 Greet, 43 Licenced, 44 Second, 45 Slipstream, 46 Used, 47 Runaway, 48 Report, 49 Unite, 51 Nape, 52 Oilskin, 53 Erects, 58 Persuading, 59 Fever, 63 Schooner, 64 Stars, 65 Crushed, 68 Fan club, 69 Siesta, 70 Studio, 71 Spruce, 75 Union, 76 Taxi, 77 Brag, 78 Pull.

5x5

Insert the missing letters to complete ten words — five across the grid and five down. More than one solution may be possible.

KAIPARA SERVICE DIRECTORY

CLASSIFIEDS PHONE 09 439 6933

FOR SALE

CARAVAN EWOF (and marine). Call your local inspector today at A+ Electrical Inspections and Security on 021 240 6764.

TOP SOIL, conditioned top quality. 100% suitable for vege gardens or new lawns. $95 per m³ onto your trailer, or truck deliveries available for larger orders. Phone 021 132 4107 or 09 439 5141.

CLEARING AUCTION

T.W.IRAIA WAIMAMAKU

7206 State Highway 12, Waimamaku (over 45 years in business)

Saturday 28th February 2026

Viewing on the day or by appt. only Auction starts 10am

• Trucks, Vehicles & Trailers

• Contracting equipment

• Diggers

• Quads

• Machinery & Tools

• Boats

• Building materials

• Catering & butchery equipment

• Large quantity of sundries SALE of the Century

- something for everybody

or Eftpos

CHURCH NOTICES

TE KOROWAI O IHU KARAITI, Dargaville Church of the Nazarene, 4 Grey Street. Church service every Sunday at 3pm. Bible study/prayer Wednesday from 4.30pm–7pm, call Moses 021 248 8910. Celebrate Recovery, for hurts, habits and hang-ups Friday 5.30pm–8pm, call George 022 498 5681.

Harsant 027 497 9892

Closing date for classified advertising for the February 24 2026 edition is Monday, February 23 2026

FENCING

FENCING, ALL types of fencing, pool, stockyards, post & rail, boundary plus… call Jeff 027 476 5458.

PERSONAL

SINGLE? OVER 40? Meet other interesting, intelligent, genuine people just like yourself. Dine out ‘Dinner for Six’. Phone 021 639 552.

PROPERTY MAINTENANCE

SECURE YOUR Home — security doors, grills, locks, bolts, stays, latches — supplied and installed. Phone 027 275 0918 or 09 439 6458 — Kevin Sowter or visit my website: www.windowanddoors.co.nz — Window & Door Services Ltd.

SECURITY

SECURE YOUR Home — security doors, grills, locks, bolts, stays, latches — supplied and installed. Phone 027 275 0918 or 09 439 6458 — Kevin Sowter or visit my website: www.windowanddoors.co.nz — Window & Door Services Ltd.

SEPTIC TANK SERVICES

MAGIC PROPERTY Services Ltd. SEPTIC TANK CLEANING. UNDER NEW OWNERSHIP. DON’T WAIT UNTIL IT’S POO LATE! PH: 021 290 0442.

TRADES & SERVICES

CARPENTER/RENOVATOR specialising in General Repairs & Maintenance, and Kitchen Installs. (30yrs senior experience). Contact Mark 027 603 8323 or info@alteredestates.co.nz.

CARPET CLEANING, repairs, re-stretching, and patching. Flood drying and small carpet laying work and upholstery cleaning. Very fussy and reasonable prices. Phone Darren, Alltrades Carpet Services 0800 425 587 or 027 286 8584. Dargaville & surrounds.

PLYWOOD 7MM Untreated $29, 20+ $26.10 or Pack(75) $23. Scooters Plywood & Joinery 09 438 6565.

TREE SERVICES

TREE REMOVAL, pruning, chipping & stump grinding. Qualified & insured. Phone Scott 0800 468 9663 Arborcare Tree Maintenance.

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WANTED MOTORCYCLE TECHNICIAN

Who is able to diagnose &repair motorcycles of all makes & models and can work closely with customers to ensure satisfaction. We require from you:

• Proven experience as a motorbike technician

Knowledge of electrical systems & engine diagnostics

Strong problem-solving skills & mechanical aptitude

• Ability to work independently or in a team

We offer a competitive hourly rate based on experience, ability & qualifications. With a friendly, supportive workshop environment. Call in & discuss with Anthony West Northland Motor Sports Ltd 59 / 61 Normanby Street, Dargaville E: anthony@northlandmotorsports.co.nz M: 027 439 7015

WANTED AUTOMOTIVE TECHNICIAN

• To start as soon as possible

• Must be able to work as a team player

• Qualifications & W.O.F approved preferred Wages based on ability & qualifications

Call in & discuss with Lindsay West Dargaville Motors 1990 Ltd 59 Normanby Street, Dargaville E: ljwest@dargavillemotors.co.nz M: 027 499 1516

Fertiliser Store Manager Dargaville, Northland

proud family-owned business with nearly 80 years’ experience, known for its technical expertise and customer service in lime and customised fertiliser solutions. With around 30 staff and depots across Northland and Waikato, including Dargaville, our journey continues.

We are seeking a sole-charge Store Manager for our Dargaville Fertiliser Store, reporting to the General Manager.

Key responsibilities include:

• Safe, efficient and compliant operation of the fertiliser depot

• Bulk storage, blending, dispatch, logistics and inventory control

• Maintaining high health & safety and regulatory standards

Supporting seasonal demand and building strong rural customer relationships

We offer: competitive pay, an autonomous role, ongoing training, PPE, and a close-knit team environment.

To apply: Please email your CV and cover note to Gill Henderson at admin@avocagroup.co.nz by Friday 27 February 2026.

DARGAVILLE HEALING rooms 7pm Tuesdays. No charge & no appointment necessary. Lion of Judah Building, River Road. All Welcome. Check us out on Facebook.

KAIPARA GREY Power are very pleased to have Andy Bryenton Kaipara Lifestyler’s Editor as our guest speaker at our next Public Meeting on Friday 20th February at the Dargaville Methodist Church Complex at 1pm. We will discuss the next procedure of re-registering our new constitution with the Companies Office first then Andy will speak at 1.15. This is a Public meeting. Come and enjoy it.

Public notice

(Section 101, Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act 2012)

licence in respect of the premises situated at 113 Victoria St, Dargaville known as West Coast Grocer The general nature of the business conducted under the licence is Grocery Store The days on which and the hours during which alcohol is intended to be sold under the licence are: Monday to Sunday 7am to 10pm. The application may be inspected during ordinary office hours at the Kaipara District Licensing Committee at 32 Hokianga Road, Dargaville or Unit 5, 6 Molesworth Drive, Mangawhai.

Any person who is entitled to object and who wishes to object to the issue of the licence may, not later than 25 working days after the first publication of this public notice, file a notice in writing of the objection with the Secretary of the District Licensing Committee, Private Bag 1001, Dargaville 0340.

No objection to the issue of a licence may be made in relation to a matter other than a matter specified in section 105(1) of the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act 2012.

This is the first publication of this notice.

Public notice (Section 101, Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act 2012)

Think Wave Ltd of Mangawhai, has made application to the Kaipara District Licensing Committee for the renewal of an on licence in respect of the premises situated at Unit 1, 6 Molesworth Drive, Mangawhai known as Dot India

The general nature of the business conducted under the licence is Restaurant

The days on which and the hours during which alcohol is sold under the licence are: Interior & Exterior (private land) Monday to Sunday 10am to 12 midnight.

The application may be inspected during ordinary office hours at the Kaipara District Licensing Committee at 32 Hokianga Road, Dargaville or Unit 5, 6 Molesworth Drive, Mangawhai.

Any person who is entitled to object and who wishes to object to the issue of the licence may, not later than 25 working days after the first publication of this public notice, file a notice in writing of the objection with the Secretary of the District Licensing Committee, Private Bag 1001, Dargaville 0340.

No objection to the renewal of a licence may be made in relation to a matter other than a matter specified in section 131 of the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act 2012.

This is the only publication of this notice.

AREA RESERVED FOR NORTHERN WAIROA BOATING CLUB REGATTA WAIROA RIVER, DARGAVILLE

Notice is hereby given pursuant to clause 3.13 of the Northland Regional Council Navigation Safety Bylaw 2017, that the area of the Wairoa River from approximately 107 River Road, Dargaville, to the Northern Wairoa Boating Club premises at 21 Totara Street, Dargaville, will be reserved for the purpose of conducting the Northern Wairoa Boating Club Inc. Regatta between the hours of 10am and 2pm on 21 February 2026.

During the period of the reservation, clause 3.2.1 governing the speed and navigation of vessels will be suspended. www.nrc.govt.nz

In Loving Memory of

Robyn Evans

You left us with so many happy and funny stories to share. Reunited with Dad, cherished forever. Kevin & Debbie