Kaipara Lifestyler, January 27th 2026

Born to help others

New era for The Kauri Museum

u by Paul Campbell

The Kauri Museum at Matakohe has been recognised as New Zealand’s Museum of the Year 2026 as it appoints a new general manager aimed at a new era of excellence and community engagement.

The museum was awarded the title at the New Zealand Prestige Awards, recognising cultural leadership, community relevance and active use as a living heritage institution, with winners selected following shortlisting and assessment by an independent panel of industry expert judges.

The Prestige Awards reach an international audience of more than 100,000 through print and digital publications distributed to subscribers, entrants and media partners. All winners will be featured in the 2026 New Zealand Prestige Awards publication.

Along with the accolade, the museum trust board has announced the appointment of Amanda Bennett as general manager, effective from February 2, after she also served as trustee for the past two years.

deeply — its challenges, its opportunities and its importance to the Kaipara community. This is a positive and grounded appointment for the museum and for our region.”

The trust looks forward to continuing its focus on financial sustainability, community connection and delivering a strong visitor experience that honours the stories of the Kaipara and the kauri forests. It also acknowledged Melanie Badenhorst, who has served as acting general manager during a significant period of organisational transition.

“Ms Bennett is a proud local, now based in Ruawai, who returns to the role with deep roots in the Kaipara and a strong commitment to community ­led development,” said trust chair Hinurewa te Hau. “She has played a key role in strengthening the museum’s donation campaign and fundraising initiatives, and the appointment reflects both continuity and confidence in the museum’s future direction.

Hinurewa te Hau says the Museum of the Year award reflects an evolving role. “It positions the museum as culturally valuable and socially alive, not just a place to visit once, but a place people return to, engage with and identify with. For an Asia­luxury readership, that is a very specific kind of recognition.”

“She brings a rare combination of strong governance experience, practical fundraising expertise and a genuine connection to this place and its people. Amanda already understands the museum

Outgoing GM Ms Badenhorst said “the award reflects the commitment of our team, volunteers and community, and the direction we are taking as an organisation that is actively used, relevant and connected.” ¢

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M e a n i n g f u l f a r e w e l l s f o r y o u r l o v e d o n e a l k t o t h e e x p e r t s , w e u n d e r s t a n d f u n e r a l s .

Dome Valley landfill battle continues

u by Paul Campbell

“After eight years we are still fighting for justice and we are still no wiser.”

The Fight the Tip movement opposed to the proposed mega landfill for Auckland’s rubbish in the Dome Valley has been engaged in court proceedings since being organised in 2018 to oppose the plan by Waste Management Ltd to open the landfill in what is considered fragile country in a watershed for the Kaipara Harbour.

Court proceedings have involved countless expensive hours of expert witnesses, laymen, Forest and Bird, local councils and legal submissions culminating in a year­long Environment Court examination that is still to report its findings.

FTT executive member Sue Crockett says there has been no word on when any decision will be forthcoming, while fellow executive and Tinopai harbour guardian, Mikaera Miru agrees. “We wait with bated breath for the Environment Court’s decision regarding the latest hearings at the end of last year. This battle for environmental and social justice is far from over.

“In 2018 Waste Management Ltd engaged with the community to establish New Zealand’s largest landfill in the Dome Valley. The tapu placed over the landfill on 15th June 2019 by mana whenua is a beacon of rangatiratanga, which brought iwi and community together.”

The iwi action is still considered in effect and was imposed to protect the wider Kaipara Harbour and its renowned

snapper nursery for much of New Zealand west coast fishery from any dump leachate in the event of flooding.

“The tapu of the rāhui is to protect the mauri (lifeforce) of Auckland’s second largest source of fresh water, critically endangered species, the Hōteo river and the Kaipara moana,” Mr Miru says.

Last year in a surprise move, Ngāti Manuhiri Settlement Trust chose to support Waste Management’s resource consent application for a 26 million cubic metre ‘mega dump’ in a change of heart that sent shockwaves through landfill opponents.

Kaipara District Mayor Jonathan Larsen attended a Puatahi Marae landfill hui that continued opposition after the Ngāti Manuhiri and Ngāti Whātua reversal and said at the time opponents “are resolute in continuing to stop this travesty from occurring.

“To be fair, I’m not sure anyone else in the Kaipara and North Rodney area wants the landfill either. Puatahi Marae is right next to the Hōteo River and would be the most impacted if future discharges of landfill leachate were to occur. The precious Kaipara Harbour doesn’t care about boundaries — we are all connected by the rivers that flow into the harbour, regardless of where we live.”

Mayor Larsen said this week: “I have been in contact with stakeholders to find alternative plans for Auckland rubbish disposal.” ¢

Born to help others

u by Amy Fifita

A familiar face once walking the Dargaville streets in his school uniform, Constable Oliver Comber has swapped his attire for blue since graduating from police college last November.

“It was good growing up in Dargaville. It was a small community, and I attended all the schools in Dargaville, including Saint Joseph’s,” said Constable Comber.

Loving the tight­ knit community, with residents who are often seen helping those in need, Oliver wanted to do the same. A desire already in him, Oliver pursued becoming part of the constabulary.

“I want to be the person who puts their front foot forward to help people. I attended the first police recruit wing in Auckland and made some lifelong friends there. You learn a lot because you have to do five months before you are deployed as a constable.

“Working in my own community, it is good to see, even in the little jobs, the positive impact it has on people, especially when you are doing it for ones you know. Later down the line, I want to climb the ranks to become a sergeant.”

Constable Comber says he is always learning and enjoys the variety policing provides, and that while it is busy, it is good work. A realised dream for him, the young constable has words of

wisdom for other young hopefuls wanting to join him in the police.

“If you want to do right by others and enjoy physical health and engaging with people, this is the job for you. It is secure, fulfilling and good fun.” ¢

Fortieth birthday presents

u by Andy Bryenton

By now it’s no secret that the Northland Field Days will hit the four-decade milestone when gates open in February.

As a quirky bonus, the organisers of the big threeday event have decreed that anyone who is 40 years old will walk in free of charge this year, but this is not the only present which is on offer as the ‘friendly field days’ in Dargaville celebrates the big four­oh.

Seeking to overtop last year’s gate prize, which consisted of a literal trailerload of goodies (including the trailer), the committee that hosts the biggest outdoor event in Northland has found considerable generosity among its supporters. Consequently, there will be another valuable hamper of prizes up for grabs on the gate, with everyone who visits the Northland Field Days eligible to win.

top prizewinner a choice. One lucky person will be able to pick between a brand new Honda outboard motor or a brand new Honda quad bike to take home with them.

Sand miners under investigation

u by Andy Bryenton

The Department of Conservation has confirmed that it will investigate sand mining firm McCallum Brothers Limited (MBL) for alleged breaches of the Wildlife Act.

Currently, MBL has been stopped from mining sand from the waters off Pākiri and Te Ārai, due to an Environment Court decision. However, the company awaits the result of an application under the coalition government’s fast­ track legislation, which could see it mine sand from neighbouring Bream Bay, in volumes up to 8 million cubic metres.

The investigation centres on the accidental or incidental death of marine wildlife, and a failure to report the same. Allegations of damage to corals at Pākiri have been made.

The big news, however, is that this year the prize hamper is only number three on the podium. Prizes one and two are staggeringly big and colossally covetable.

Dargaville Honda has been a solid supporter of the Northland Field Days throughout its rise to 40­year prominence, and this year they’ve decided to give the

Equally impressive is a freshly announced prize from North Travel; a week­ long tropical holiday at the scenic Matavai Resort in Niue, with car rental, breakfasts and flights via Air New Zealand included. There’s also a fishing charter and a tropical safari tour included in the package, which will allow for both adventure and relaxation in this idyllic part of the Pacific. ¢

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

Pākiri local and lawyer, Damon Clapshaw, contends that MBL continued to dredge at Pākiri after discovering the presence of stony coral, an at­risk species that is absolutely protected under the Wildlife Act 1953. He said the company breached multiple consent regulations by continuing to dredge in the area and failing to disclose it as required.

Evidence provided to DOC investigators by Mr Clapshaw shows that Bioresearches, an ecological testing company working for MBL, discovered stony coral in early March

2025. It took close to three months before it was formally identified and during that time, dredging continued throughout the extraction area. An investigation began in late August 2025.

“The preliminary investigation has been completed, and we will undertake an internal review before determining the next steps. We expect to confirm an outcome in the first quarter of 2026,” said DOC border and species trade manager, Benjamin Cornelius.

Mr Cornelius confirmed that the penalty for a company convicted could be up to $300,000. ¢

Experience the best of Mangawhai

u by Andy Bryenton

Those who are visiting Mangawhai for the Waitangi holiday weekend have another attraction to add to their itinerary; Mangawhai Hills, the exciting new development taking shape on the east coast, is hosting an open day on February 7.

The extensive new precinct of Mangawhai is established in the rolling hills which look eastward toward the beaches of the Hauraki Gulf. There’s a different philosophy at work here than in many other such endeavours; Mangawhai Hills will be uniquely sustainable, with its own water treatment systems, its own power generation utilising the ample sunshine, and a beyond carbon ­zero, actually carbon­negative footprint.

As Mangawhai Hills has risen, locals have seen new trees planted to create future shade on a walking track which will lead to the district’s secondary school. Thousands more have been planted to form an irrigation field, ensuring that water treatment is managed on ­ site. At the same time, wetlands have been restored meticulously to preserve the natural flow of this landscape.

As well as taking care of the natural surrounds that make Mangawhai Hills special, the designers working on this development have also given care and

attention to the design of the homes, which will make it a community. On the open day a highlight will be the chance to explore the Mangawhai Hills experience centre, which gives a firsthand look at what it could be like to live here, in a light, spacious home that’s in harmony with its environment.

Come along to take a closer look on February 7 from 11am. There will be coffee, live music and time to walk the nature trail and explore options for making Mangawhai your home. After all, if you’re here for the holidays, what could be better than making a sea­change to the ‘good life’ permanent? ¢

a coastal lifestyle designed to slow things down.

Wander through our on-site experience centre, explore house & land packages, and take in sweeping views across planned neighbourhoods and open land.

Be the first to preview the new walking nature trails, and imagine mornings that start with coastal walks and end with sunset skies. With a coffee cart and live music, this is your invitation to escape the everyday and experience what life at Mangawhai Hills is becoming.

Set sail for celebration

u by Andy Bryenton

Part of a full schedule of history, family entertainment and fun on Waitangi Day in Mangawhai is the chance to witness a veritable regatta afloat on the town’s scenic harbour.

There’s ample opportunity to get involved, too, with the invitation out to sailors of vessels big and small to gather on our nation’s birthday for a cruise in the sheltered waters of Mangawhai.

“We had 35 yachts take part for 2025, as well as waka ama teams and a huge crowd who stayed throughout the whole afternoon,” says Colin Jackson, who alongside Craig Whitehead, is one of the organisers of this celebration on the water.

“In fact, it was because of this event that we’ve managed to establish a permanent sailing club. We’re going to try to beat last year’s record this time around, with more boats on the water and more people involved.”

Taking place at the Lincoln Street reserve from 10am to 1pm, the nautical fun will be set against a backdrop of sparkling water and dunes; the harbour which gave Mangawhai

its name. Historically, Mangawhai has always been defined by its relationship with the sea. In pre ­European times it was the eastern end of a portage from the Kaipara Harbour, while in the colonial era, ships built on local shores set off to sail the world and bring trade and prosperity. That rich heritage will be explored at the Mangawhai Museum from 9am, with free entry all day to exhibits which illustrate the maritime legacy of this part of New Zealand. When the day’s sailing is done, it’s time to gather at the Mangawhai Activity Zone for a huge free concert and a picnic supper on the green. Mark the date and don’t miss out — February 6. ¢

Leadership and the long view

u by Andy Bryenton

Kaipara District Council chief executive Jason Marris is leaving his role with local governance in April, headed for a leadership role with Kaipara Moana Remediation as they undertake the biggest environmental restoration project in New Zealand.

After three and a half years at the helm of the council’s staff, and a similar tenure as a general manager, he says that he’s proud of his team and pleased with the progress which has been made across the district despite the challenges of the Covid lockdowns and unprecedented natural disasters.

“We have a team of very talented people here, so it’s not about me at all,” he says. “I’m humbled by them every day. People choose to work here because they want their community to be a better place.”

As CE, Jason is the only true employee of our democratically elected members of council, and he says that the gravity of the role before him was immediately apparent when he interviewed for the job; answering questions put by the entire council and then­mayor Jason Smith.

“Ever since I’ve been involved in local government, I’d wanted to give the CE’s role a crack. I wanted to step up to the challenge, and like any job, you don’t truly know what it’s like until you are in it. The governance aspect makes it have a different flavour to being a leader in the private sector,” he says.

Working with the KDC was the fifth council role that Jason had fulfilled. Previously he’d come up through the old

North Shore City Council, then served with both the pre ­amalgamation Auckland City Council and the super­city Auckland Council, before moving to Whangārei District Council.

“Kaipara District Council punches above its weight, for a small council from a smaller district,” he says. “Our people are amazing and deliver more with less. An example of the attitude here: When Southland experienced a civil defence emergency last year, five of our KDC team volunteered to go and help. We were the smallest council to send help, and some larger councils didn’t. That’s what I mean by our people going above and beyond.”

A sense of duty was always a part of Jason’s working life. Growing up in Ōamaru on the east coast of the South Island, he says he wanted to experience the wider world beyond his small town. So he took the opportunity to join the air force at the age of 17, and remembers the intensity of the transition from civilian life.

“The next day I was on a plane. We landed, and they shaved my head, and I was certain it was all real,” says Jason.

“I really took to military life. You had to wake up super early, make up a bed pack, keep everything very tidy, and you had to learn discipline. Not just drills and training, but how not to react emotionally,

how to get better at what you needed to do. That carries over into civilian life.”

He’d go on to work for nine years in the air force, moving for 15 different postings, including an intense three months on the ice of Antarctica, serving in the Kiwi contingent at the US McMurdo Base. There was an aspect to this of wanting to test limits and boundaries, but also a thirst for travel and experience. Jason went from loading and unloading some of the biggest aircraft in the world in freezing

cold to working at the Kiwi embassy in Washington DC, and a stint in Australia. Then it was back to civilian life, with the North Shore Council.

“That was a learning curve too. I was in charge of a team of parking wardens, with an average age of 62. I had to adjust from the way things get done in the military and learn how to work differently.”

Moving up to become, eventually, CE of the Kaipara District Council has meant developing a skill­ set that’s a bit out of

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the ordinary, and very different from that of a corporate chief executive. Some of that is because of the unique nature of governance and the way in which the goals of a council are beyond making money.

Jason says that while it’s of paramount importance that every dollar the KDC spends is acknowledged as an investment by ratepayers in a better district, there are outcomes beyond the balance sheet, which elected members and staff collaborate to achieve. Together, the governance and administration branches of councils support communities.

“You need to see things from the point of view of the elected members, and sometimes people don’t do that. They are the ones who are questioned when they’re at the supermarket and tasked by their neighbours to get things done,” says Jason. “The role of CE is about communicating between the council and council staff. Ultimately, I don’t deliver anything; our teams do. I facilitate. I have to ensure best practice, but I am clear, governance make the decisions and staff make them happen.

“As council CE, you need to navigate the community at lots of levels. You need to have those ‘soft skills’ of talking to people, listening to them and seeing different points of view. You engage with community groups, iwi, charities and all sorts of people. You have to make them heard.”

Through the challenges of Covid, where the small size of the KDC allowed

flexibility to keep services going, or fronting up to Cyclone Gabrielle, a tornado in Mangawhai or a weather ‘bomb’, which wiped out major roads, Jason says he’s relied on, and has never been let down by his team. The people of the KDC are its most important asset. They are what will guide local governance through the changes being enacted in Wellington right now, and that he has full confidence in our small but mighty council to continue to rise to every challenge.

He leaves in April to take up the task of safeguarding and rehabilitating the largest harbour in the southern hemisphere. ¢

Times Gone By

A forest giant lost

In 1907, a massive fire broke out in one of the first kauri reserves in the country, near Mangatu, destroying some of the largest specimens known. The tree pictured was larger and wider than Tāne Mahuta in the Waipoua Forest. Known at the time as Kauri Park, the reserve had been obtained from Mitchelson Brothers Ltd in exchange for another block that was later milled.

Image credit: Auckland Libraries Heritage Collections

Robbery in Albertland

The first house robbery in this district took place on the 15th instant, under the following circumstances. On the day above named, a young man, miserably clad, presented himself at the house of Frederick and Charles Plummer and asked for work, at the same stating that he had been some days in the bush, almost without food. Out of compassion to his apparently distressed circumstances, the brothers took him in, and kept him for a week, giving him occasional employment on the farm. Later, the brothers found items missing from the house including a pistol.

New Zealand Herald, July 1 1865

Anglo-Norman wreck sold

The wreck of the ill-fated Norwegian barque Anglo-Norman on the North Spit, Kaipara, during a squall on Saturday, September 26, has been sold by tender to Messrs Brown and Sons, Te Kopuru, for the sum of £1. Only one tender was received. The crew, who only signed on for the trip from Dunedin to Kaipara, will remain in Auckland, but Captain Karlson left for Sydney, en route to Norway.

Gisborne Times, October 6 1914

Mayor ’s Message

One of the commitments I made during the election was to give our community clear, transparent information about where council collects and spends money. The first of these financial breakdowns by ward was released before Christmas. We’ll continue providing these updates at regular intervals through the year, and you can also find the figures each month in the council agenda.

We’re also taking this a step further. Over the coming weeks, elected members will work with staff on a line-by-line review of the upcoming financial year. The goal is simple: identify efficiencies and look for ways to reduce costs without compromising our services. I know every dollar counts for households right now, and that’s front of mind as we look for sensible savings.

It’s shaping up to be a year of big moves, not just for Kaipara, but for the whole region. Earlier this month I accepted the resignation of Chief Executive Jason Marris, and we’ve now begun the process of recruiting a replacement. Across Northland, our councils are working more closely than ever. The Northland Water Done Well programme is progressing plans for a new council controlled organisation to deliver water and wastewater services across the region by July 2027. Two councillors and the mayor from each district have now formed a steering group to guide this work, and recently an Establishment Advisory Group (EAG) was appointed.

At the national level, central government has announced major legislative changes. The Resource Management Act 1991 — which underpins many of council’s core responsibilities — will be replaced by a new Planning Act and a Natural Environment Act. Government has also signalled a wide-ranging review of local government, including proposals that could eventually see regional councils disestablished.

Northland’s Mayoral Forum, made up of the region’s three district mayors and the Northland Regional Council Chair, is actively involved in these conversations. The current structure has been in place for more than 35 years, and all four councils are united in ensuring any reform genuinely benefits our communities and reflects what’s best for Northland.

We’ll keep you updated as all of this unfolds. I’m looking forward to catching up with many of you at community events soon. With Paparoa A&P Show, Arapohue A&P Show and Northland Field Days coming up, please come and say hi.

Jonathan Larsen Mayor of Kaipara District

Tiny book of huge landmarks Maritime history accuracy

On November 21 2025, a meeting was held at the Kaipara District Council office in Mangawhai for the Heritage New Zealand Northland manager and a colleague to consider differing views on the historic location of the McInnes shipyard, where Donald McInnes built the schooner Daring and other vessels between 1861 and 1878.

Representatives of the Mangawhai Daring Trust, the Mangawhai Museum and History Society, and Kaipara District Council also attended.

The meeting aimed to hear both interpretations and to allow Heritage New Zealand to examine the two proposed sites. After site visits, a written report, issued on December 3, concluded that the McInnes shipyard was most likely located at Mangawhai Heads rather than further up the harbour.

Public signage erected by Kaipara District Council, shortly before the meeting, remains in place some two months after the report’s release. This understandably causes confusion for visitors, and has the potential to place strain on

relationships between community groups that share a common respect for Mangawhai heritage.

This letter is not about apportioning blame, but about process. Good heritage interpretation depends on accurate information and inclusive consultation. Both are essential if community trust is to be maintained.

I encourage Kaipara District Council to remove the signage in light of the Heritage New Zealand findings and to ensure that future heritage projects in Mangawhai are developed collaboratively, with all relevant stakeholders involved from the outset.

Don Armitage

u by Andy Bryenton

Author and researcher Maja Zonjić has compiled a neat and pocket-sized little guide to 100 of New Zealand’s most iconic landmarks.

It’s a cultural phenomenon which Kiwis might find commonplace, but which is quirky on a global stage. We love building big things. From the big bottle in Paeroa to the big carrot in Ohakune, there are giant veggies, giant livestock, giant people and giant birds everywhere. Maja’s little book chronicles a road trip of 100 of them.

“When you mention big things, people can usually name a small number, but not many people know that there are more than 100 around New Zealand,” says Maja. “They often list all the ones they know, and ask me if I have heard of or seen others, so the total might be even higher.”

There’s a whole philosophy about what makes a thing big, and what the phenomenon means. Maja has interesting theories about who builds these things, why they do so, and what that means about our sense of community, of place and of what’s important to us.

Some of it could be about wanting to see what we value on display locally. While not big enough to be in the book, a creative toi ­ Māori themed rendition of classic hip hop artists the Wu Tang Clan’s ‘w’ symbol on a Ruawai school building is an example; it’s the painter placemaking with passion. Appropriately, the catchphrase of the musicians is ‘Wu Tang is for the children’.

All the profits from Maja’s book go toward scholarships for students in the social sciences and humanities, and many Kaipara towns get a shout­out for their big landmarks. ¢

ArApohue Show

Warm welcome to show season

u by Andy Bryenton, Northern Wairoa A&P Show president

We’d like to welcome the whole community to the 2026 Northern Wairoa A&P Show — your show, whether you are here as one of our wonderful locals or as a guest to Arapohue and the western Kaipara for the day.

The essence of this show and those like it, which are experiencing a surge of popularity around New Zealand, is togetherness and hospitality. Because, while those who are here to shear, to ride and to proudly present their finest livestock and produce meet in the spirit of friendly competition, A&P shows have always been a great social occasion.

The long and storied history of the Northern Wairoa A&P Show is proof that farming is in our heritage. There are those present here today who carry the pride of many generations with them as they enter the show ring or pick up the shears, and everyone involved is helping to carry on a truly Kiwi tradition. Still, it’s also true to say that farming, and the farming lifestyle, are our future.

Importantly, there will be more rides and games for the kids, too, thanks to a very generous donation indeed from Bayleys Real Estate. A gold coin donation is all it will take to enjoy the fun of the fairground rides and attractions, making this an affordable day out for the family.

from pioneering times and right up to the present. Without you this celebration of our heritage and our local pride would not be possible. ¢

This year we’ll be delivering more of what west Kaipara has wanted to see for

more than a century. More arts and crafts in the huge indoor section, which just gets bigger every year as people rekindle a general love of self­ sustainability. More delicious food and coffee. More exciting games to participate in, including our legendary tug of war, which will once again offer bragging rights for the whole year for the victors.

Supporting the Arapohue Show 2026

From the cattle and the goats to the equestrian ring and the shearing pavilion, there’ll be action aplenty and lots to see and do. Make a day of it and you’ll understand exactly why shows like this one, and that of our neighbours just down the road in Paparoa, are a cultural icon in New Zealand.

Please stop by and enjoy some Arapohue hospitality. We, the committee, give sincere thanks to those stalwart sponsors and supporters who have made the show possible, year after year,

TO BUILD OR RENOVATE

A polarising prospect for glass

u by Andy Bryenton

It’s a long-standing science fiction trope that any high-tech problem can be fixed by ‘reversing the polarity’ of a futuristic machine’s inner workings.

From Captain Kirk to Doctor Who, polarity­reversing antics have saved the day across time and space, but now there’s a real application of this principle

on the market, designed to protect you from harsh and dangerous radiation. That’s not more sci­fi; we’re talking about the rays of the sun.

Electrochromic glass is the latest trend in windows, adding the ability to tint the windows of your home with the flick of a switch. It’s down to the miracle element lithium, used in batteries and also a vital part of our own biological processes.

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By sandwiching five layers of ceramic material on a very thin pane of glass between two other glass layers, it’s possible to make lithium ions jump between the layers by using a very small electrical charge. Reversing the polarity turns it back.

The result is that the glass tints, becoming darker in the same way that some spectacles change with the intensity of the sun. In this case, however, it’s your choice as to how tinted your windows become. You can even go fully opaque when privacy is a priority.

This technology was initially only viable on smaller pieces of glass, which

meant that early adopters were often automotive manufacturers, looking for a technological edge. Mercedes, Polestar and other luxury brands kicked off the trend, and it reached new heights in the VW ID Buzz, a replacement for the venerable Kombi Van, where the whole panoramic moon roof is able to tint by wire.

In home design, electrochromic glass can provide excellent protection from UV for both people and artworks, furnishings and carpets. An example is a home with massive picture ­window beach views; as the sun beats down at noon, heat and light can be filtered, but the windows can become crystal clear to capture the full glory of a west coast sunset.

Alternatively, there’s the option of automating electrochromic glass, to ensure that it works in harmony with your home’s heating and cooling systems. Visual sensors and a computer control module can allow a suite of smart

windows to track the sun, allowing warmth when it’s wanted in the winter and stopping a percentage of thermal loss in shade. Conversely, a home which tints up to reflect heat and help air conditioning bills stay low as the sun tracks across the sky and strikes different glazed surfaces is a smart idea. ¢

TO BUILD OR RENOVATE

Albie’s Den expands to cope

u by Paul Campbell

Maungatūroto’s fundraising op-shop with a difference, Albie’s Den, is spreading its wings to cope with ‘an amazing response’ as it settles into a new location on the main road into the town.

Named for its founder, the late Albie Paton, the premises at 31 Hurndall Street have to be expanded to cope with inward goods. “We are awaiting the arrival of two 40­ foot containers,” says manager Julie Massey. “This will help cope with what is simply a wonderful response since we opened.”

The second­hand and donated goods emporium had been run for a decade from an old scouting hall in Bickerstaffe Road, and was only relocated just before Albie Paton passed late last year.

His widow, Marge, is a part­ time staffer at the new premises and says: “Albie would be absolutely thrilled with the way it has succeeded. The new location puts us on the map with people dropping in from the main road out of curiosity and finding a bargain.”

Julie says “the response and atmosphere has been amazing. People come in with generosity and others walk out with big smiles, finding a bargain. However, we need more space as we will open the repair workshop

where volunteers will be able to restore items we receive for resale. So room is becoming a premium, hence the container storage.”

The fundraising emphasis of the operation is expected to continue supporting Otamatea applicants in four tranches, decided each year by a trust. In the past, many recipients of more than half ­ a ­ million dollars have included everything from individuals to schools, sports groups and community support organisations, the rescue helicopters, Hospice and the Coastguard. ¢

Water advisory group assembles

u by Andy Bryenton

A group of highly qualified advisers has been empanelled to help establish the council-controlled organisation (CCO), which will administer water services in the north.

By July next year, the water infrastructure formerly controlled and owned by local councils will instead be under the administration of the Northland water CCO, and that means it’s a crucial time right now to set the groundwork for governance.

To that end, a panel of five has been brought together to advise the mayors and elected members of Northland, and pave the way for a permanent board of directors, which will take the reins in 2027.

Members of this advisory group include former chair of the Northland and Auckland Water Services Entity Board and water services delivery review panellist for the Department of Internal Affairs, Murray Bain. He is joined by chief technical adviser for the

Local Waters Done Well reforms and former deputy CEO of Watercare, Marlon Bridge, who was also chief financial officer at both Watercare and Manukau Water.

Also adding experience to the group are former president and board member of Water New Zealand, Steve Couper, and former chief executive of both Eke Panuku Development Auckland and the Auckland City Council, David Rankin.

The quintet is completed with the appointment of specialist water and infrastructure lawyer Michael Sage, who has served as chair of the New Plymouth District Council’s water CCO, as a member of the Gisborne District Council’s water services committee, and as a leading legal adviser to Watercare, Metrowater and Manukau Water. ¢

Make your holiday destination your home at Mangawhai Central - a new coastal community like no other.

Located between some of New Zealand’s finest beaches, fishing spots, golf courses, local amenities and less than 90 minutes from Auckland, this coastal paradise offers contemporary living yet feels like a world away.

We have a number of site opportunities available to you throughout all three stages of this development, including a choice of build options on offer - from one of our affordable standard plans designed to stand the test of time, or customise with an A1 bespoke home - a custom, one-off plan designed entirely around your vision.

A1homes Northland | Corner State Hwy 1 & Sandford Rd, Ruakaka

Open Mon to Fri: 8:30am - 4pm | Saturday 10am - 2pm 09 433 0200 I a1northland@A1homes.co.nz I A1homes.co.nz

An elevated position

u by Amy Fifita

Northlanders know too well the deluge that rain

money and clean-ups.

It happened again, more rain, more flooding, albeit not as severe as Cyclone Gabrielle or in the Whangārei District. While we can’t stop the weather pressures from their downpours, people can consider ways to prevent an unwanted water feature from going through their living room.

If you are doing a new build, making wise decisions may be easier. You can build on a hill, put the structure on pylons or cleverly design the downstairs to be a garage and storage space and not a living area.

Consider the materials used in construction. Steel frames, bricks, hardwood and polished concrete floors are durable and easier to clean in the event of a flood. Water­resistant insulation is also an option.

Existing homes may have more challenges, especially if you are on lowlying land, but rest assured, there are deterrents. Digging drains and installing catchpits around the property can help divert and manage water.

While with drains you dig down, it may pay to build up. With breakaway and flood walls, homeowners can prevent damage to foundations and deflect water.

Using permeable surfaces for your driveway and outdoor areas helps, too. Porous pavement, openjointed or grass pavers or gravel allow water to soak into the ground, rather than having no place to go.

Installing flood vents can relieve the pressure. While allowing water to enter your crawlspaces may sound strange, it actually equalises hydrostatic pressure, making stormwater less of a force of nature.

It always pays to be safe. So heading inside, what can people do to decrease the impact if the house does flood? Elevate your devices like televisions, stereos and so on, and if your wallet allows it, have electrical outlets raised to protect the integrity of your wiring.

Large gutters and downpipes are another deterrent. The more water they catch and divert to the drains, the better. With these small considerations covered, the next time we get heavy downpours, people can have a more ­confident sleep knowing they have done all they could to floodproof their home. ¢

DARGAVILLE 378 Notorious West Road

Modern Living with Charm

Tastefully renovated three bedroom home plus office on 8050sqm lifestyle block. Features polished timber floors, kauri accents and a contemporary kitchen with island, gas oven and ample storage. Comfort assured with wood burner, heat pump, HRV and insulation. Bathroom includes shower-over-bath and separate toilet. Outdoors: covered deck, water tanks, fruit trees, paddocks chook pen, and double garage Country living without compromise!

pggwre.co.nz/DAG42886

mbrowning@pggwrightson.co.nz

E erin.grbin@pggwrightson.co.nz M 021 716

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.

pggwre.co.nz/DAG38355

The little grey Fergie turns 80

u by Andy Bryenton

In 1946, the legendary industrial designer Harry Ferguson sat down to sketch a tractor on his drawing board, which would change New Zealand.

The second world war was over, and the mechanisation of farming had come, spurred by the importation of farm machinery from the US, which Kiwis used to feed hungry troops. When Harry designed the TE20, soon to be known as the ‘little grey Fergie’, his plan was to standardise implements and make tractors versatile.

Since 1928 Ferguson had been working to combine his ideas of a threepoint hitch, PTO and suction­ side valvecontrolled hydraulic system into one machine. The TE20 popularised this combination worldwide, to the extent that examples sit in museums as far apart as Poland and Canada. With its small size, tight turning radius and reliable, simple motor, the Fergie could outperform horses and access areas too small to be ploughed by bigger machines.

The ability to use one tractor to undertake a whole range of jobs on the farm was game ­changing. By 1950 there were more than 60 official implements which could be used with the TE20, including balers, seed drills, ploughs, sickle mowers and cultivators. Generators and pumps could also run from the back of this hardy little machine, which could therefore deliver power and water to places that were otherwise inaccessible.

As a result of its capabilities, the little grey Fergie became a bestseller. It also became a legend. In Australia, there’s a monument to this small utility tractor where the Darling and Murray rivers meet. During a huge flood in 1956 the levees burst and the two huge waterways threatened to destroy the town of Wentworth. A fleet of TE20

A TE20 named Betsy, from Britain, circumnavigated the entire coastline of that island nation in 2003, securing a Guinness World Record for the longest ever journey by tractor, of 5,111 kilometres without a breakdown.

Then there’s the fact that the TE20 is the only tractor ever to feature on a New Zealand bank note. Between 1992 and 2015, the little Fergie was pictured on the bottom left corner of the five ­dollar bill, next to the portrait of Sir Edmund Hillary. It was there because in 1958 the intrepid Sir Ed converted six TE20s to cross Antarctica. They became the first machines to drive to the south pole, and cemented the legacy of the little grey Fergie as a machine that could tackle any task. ¢

Kaipara Kōrero

News from Kaipara District Council

It ’s show time!

Council kaimahi (staff) and elected members will be at Paparoa A&P Show on Saturday 7 February. Come have a chat and learn more about our council services and other projects happening in your community

Rates due 20 February

The third instalment of rates for 2025/2026 is due on 20 February

If you’re having difficulty meeting the cost of your rates, talk to our friendly revenue team about developing a payment plan

Find out more at kaipara.govt.nz/rates

Did you know you could get up to $805 off your rates bill? Ratepayers on a low income, who own their own home, and lived in it on 1 July, may be eligible for a government rates rebate on their rates bill.

The Department of Internal Affairs threshold for a rebate is $32,210 per year and $45,000 for SuperGold cardholders Even if you are above the income threshold you may still be eligible for a rebate

Find out if you are eligible:

• kaipara.govt.nz/rates

• Visit the Mangawhai or Dargaville council office

• 0800 727 059

SuperGold cardholders

If applying in person, please bring your card and for applications by mail or email, include a copy of the name and signature side of your card for verification. You can contact the team by phone 0800 727 059 or email revenue@kaipara govt nz

Lawrence Road slip repairs

As part of the slip repair works on Lawrence Road, the road is closed during the day between 7am and 6pm, reopening each evening and remaining open on weekends Resident access will be maintained throughout the works, which are expected to finish at the end of February/early March. A short detour is available via Devich Road Thank you for your patience while this work is completed

Artsy

or sporty, and passionate?

We’re looking for community-minded locals to join the volunteer panels that review applications for the Creative Communities Scheme and Rural Travel Fund To find out more and apply, visit kaipara.govt.nz/funding before 14 February

Aotearoa Bike Challenge - last call to register

Get on your bike in February and be in to win some amazing prizes including a $3,000 holiday of your choice, an e-bike, barista coffee machine, Garmin vouchers and more! It’s free to sign up and every 10km+ bike ride you log puts you in the draw to win Find out more and sign up at lovetoride.net

Wastewater improvements

Our contractors are carrying out wastewater improvements around Third Avenue, Tirarau Street and Ranfurly Street. Work is expected to take two weeks and involves relining the pipeline with all work being carried out via inspection shafts and no excavation expected. There may be some traffic and pedestrian management as needed, please take care if you are in the area

Check it ’s alright before you light

These wet days have been a relief for our water tanks and our firefighters. Please keep in mind the risk of fire increases when conditions are dry and winds pick up If you’re planning an open fire, including bonfires, burn piles and braziers, always check it’s alright before you light at checkitsalright nz

local newspapers

Check out our news website www.kaipara.govt.nz/news

Connect with us on LinkedIn

Northern Wairoa A&P — Arapohue Show

12:05am (0.9m) 6:28am (2.8m) 12:44pm

6:59pm (2.8m) THU 29 1:19am (0.9m) 7:48am (2.9m) 2:04pm (1.0m) 8:18pm (2.8m) FRI 30 2:36am (0.9m)

KAIPARA LIFESTYLER IS PUBLISHED WITH PRIDE

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

2:04am (0.4m) 8:32am (2.7m) 2:36pm (0.6m) 8:59pm (2.6m) TUE 3 2:56am (0.4m) 9:23am (2.7m) 3:28pm (0.5m) 9:50pm (2.6m)

PUZZLE TIME

31 Confidence (5)

32 Spiritualist’s meeting (6)

34 Canal in Egypt (4)

36 Lifting device (5)

to touch (6)

77 Perfume (9)

79 Level highland (7)

81 Dead heat (3)

84 Eagle’s nest (5)

85 Business heads (10)

86 Body organ (5)

87 Quick (5)

88 Person who can be relied on to give a great deal of support and comfort (5,2,8)

89 Vow (5)

2 Decapitate (6)

3 Body trunk (5)

5 US state with Salt Lake City (4)

6 Rifle range circles (7)

7 Convert into cipher (6)

8 Surrounded by (5)

9 Ardent love or affection (7)

10 Actor’s part (4)

11 Not transparent (6)

12 Rise (5)

13 Over-modest (7)

14 Caution (7)

18 Respiratory disorder (10)

23 Retard the growth of (5)

24 Valour (7)

26 Jewish vernacular (7)

27 Theft (7)

29 Cut into three (7)

30 Rarely (6)

38 Laundry appliance (5)

40 Pacific country (4)

45 Anaesthetising liquid (5)

46 Low wall guarding a drop (7)

47 Eagerly expectant (4)

48 Ordain (anag)(6)

49 Small pieces of medicine (5)

50 Refer to (7)

52 With elegance (10)

53 Field of specialised study (7)

54 Sign up (6)

55 Book printing (7)

56 Blood vessels (5)

57 Flavouring plant (4)

62 Heap (5)

67 Postmarked (7)

68 Make like new again (7)

70 Underwater missile (7)

72 Quarrelsome disturbance (7)

73 Oddball (6)

74 Large wild cat (6)

75 Yacht harbour (6)

76 Entice (5)

78 Estimate (5)

80 Hurl (5)

82 Surrender (4)

83 Air-hole (4)

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

ACROSS: 1 Equip, 4 On the breadline, 11 Guard, 14 Bandy, 15 Black Forest, 16 Abnormal, 19 Amiable, 20 Hurry, 21 Hamstring, 24 Footloose, 26 Abroad, 27 Closed, 31 Unite, 32 Compress, 34 Tablespoon, 38 Eat away, 39 Rapier, 40 Onions, 41 Ring, 42 Frothed, 45 Innovation, 50 Crochet, 54 Doll, 55 Icicle, 56 Carafe, 57 Payroll, 60 Proceeding, 61 Ignoring, 62 Wings, 65 Opened, 66 Dilute, 67 Hindsight, 72 Racetrack, 73 Agape, 74 Cézanne, 79 Garrison, 80 Dilapidated, 81 Limbs, 82 Nylon, 83 Not giving a hoot, 84 Joker. DOWN: 2 Qualms, 3 India, 5 Nile, 6 Hiccups, 7 Before, 8 Earl, 9 Despairs, 10 Embark, 11 Groundless, 12 Arms, 13 Deleted, 17 Blitz, 18 Escalation, 22 Rotor, 23 Astonish, 25 Outlast, 26 Austria, 28 Unfair, 29 Mexico, 30 Clinic, 33 Prawn, 35 Night, 36 Fare, 37 Yogi, 42 Fed up, 43 Onlooker, 44 Decide, 45 Incendiary, 46 Noes, 47 Vaccine, 48 Throne, 49 Offer, 51 Road, 52 Cornish, 53 Eulogy, 58 Vegetarian, 59 Snide, 63 Zucchini, 64 Dived, 65 Octagon, 68 Impeach, 69 Renown, 70 Ageing, 71 Unable, 75 Amigo, 76 Oral, 77 Sari, 78 Zero.

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

KAIPARA SERVICE DIRECTORY

TRADES & SERVICES

FENCING

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

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 hang­ups Friday 5.30pm–8pm, call George 022 498 5681.

PERSONAL

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

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.

TO RENT

TWO BEDROOM Unit with heat pump and carport. $380 per week. Phone 027 249 7527.

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, re­stretching, 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.

MARINE PLYWOOD, New Prices 4, 6, 9, 12, 18mm. Scooters Plywood and joinery 09 438 6565.

TREE SERVICES

PROFESSIONAL QUALIFIED arborists. For all your tree needs — removal, chipping, trimming. Get the right team for the job. TEAM VEGETATION 09 439 0050. TREE REMOVAL, pruning, chipping & stump grinding. Qualified & insured. Phone

CLASSIFIEDS PHONE 09 439 6933

POSITION

SITUATIONS VACANT

SITUATIONS VACANT

Office & Accounts Administrator

(40hrs – Full Time)

Hours Monday to Friday 8.00 am to 5.00pm. No weekend work

Key Duties

Invoicing & receipting parts using Infusion Business Software.

• Cash handling, cashing up & balance, filing of accounts.

• Booking in machines, processing job cards & notifying customers.

Sending customer statements, answering phones promptly & professionally.

• Responding to emails.

Sales of retail garden and outdoor power equipment.

• End of year accounts preparation for Accountant. General administration.

Skills & Experience

• Accounts & office experience. Confident using Microsoft suite. Strong attention to detail.

• Honest, reliable & self-motivated. Professional, organised & customer focussed. Takes initiative and works well independently.

• Available for an immediate start to training. Send your CV to office@godfreyschainsaw.co.nz with a brief cover letter. Applications close 5th February 2026.

CHAINSAWS & MOWERS

UNIFORM FOR 2026

Nau Mai - Haere Mai WHAKATUWHERATANGA ANŌ Reopening

28th February 2026

Pōwhiri 10:30am 5 Kaihu Wood Road, Kaihu RSVP: tamateuauamarae@outlook.com