Kaipara Lifestyler, March 10th 2026

Queen of the Thunder

Town hall meeting called on future plans

u by Andy Bryenton

A public meeting has been called for farmers and those in the primary sector, to discuss what’s required for the future of employment and training in the district.

Massey University, regional development group Northland Inc and local community leaders have called for an open meeting to address the issue of training, as the primary production sector in Kaipara looks toward a future with plenty of opportunity but a lack of qualified staff. The logical answer, say proponents of localised higher education, is to get Kaipara people upskilled close to home, removing one of the barriers to more prosperous employment.

“The more qualified people we have the better. If we can lift that number, we

are all well positioned for prosperity,” said Kaipara District councillor Snow Tane, who will chair the meeting.

The town hall format invites farmers and producers to have their input into a planned project presented by Massey University professor Doug Sutton. He has been named as the project lead on an initiative to bring educational development to Northland, driven by Massey University with its track record of primary industry leadership. It’s been indicated that this does not mean simply basic level one and level two certification, but deeper, work-

ready skills building. “We have everything we need here in the north. So much good arable land, a port that’s expanding, a new motorway planned — the stars are aligning. We need to be ready with people to meet this need,” said Mr Tane.

The meeting will take place on Monday, April 13 at 6.30pm, at the Dargaville Intermediate School Hall. All those involved in the primary sector, farming and local production are encouraged to attend, to have their say on training the next generation for success. ¢

History on wheels Health shuttle

Fish deaths mystery unsolved

u by Paul Campbell

The deaths of prime snapper reported over a large swathe of the Ōtamatea River, from Maungatūroto and Kaiwaka through to Batley Point on the Kaipara Harbour, remains a mystery after extensive investigation.

Environs is the environmental arm of Te Uri O Hau iwi, and manager Cindy Hempsall said samples of the snapper had been sent for testing to determine a cause.

According to reports “The fish have all been snapper on shorelines and in the water. We have sent samples to the Ministry of Primary Industries and the Northern Regional Council for further investigation.”

However, Environs has now said that those tests were negative. “The fish samples we sent away were too decayed and any chemical compounds that could determine the cause of death were no longer present.

“Environs is aware of the concerns being raised, including speculation regarding tank cleaning processes and discharges. We have already been engaging directly with Fonterra, as well as notifying the relevant regulatory authorities, to ensure that the matter is being properly considered and that appropriate investigations are undertaken. As you’ll appreciate, it’s important that any conclusions are based on verified information rather than assumption.”

Lifestyler has approached Fonterra about its Maungatūroto dairy factory on the headwaters of the river for comment

It is on record as discharging ‘treated wastewater into the Ōtamatea River with monitoring in place to assess its impact on the estuary’s water quality and environment’. Northland Regional Council and Auckland Council have reviewed these discharges. At publication time a Fonterra spokesman said we are “still awaiting final test results.”

Environs also raised the idea that “we cannot rule out the alleged dumping of fish,” but that view has been rejected by local commercial fishers who point out that the Kaipara is not a commercial fishery as a nursery for west coast snapper stocks. ¢

The right fit

u by Amy Fifita

ReSport Charitable Trust is connecting with Kaipara once more, and is seeking volunteers for its stall at Art Beat Dargaville on Saturday, March 21, at the Riverside Gardens.

No stranger to Dargaville after setting up a permanent ReSport Pātaka at Dargaville Intermediate School and Christmas Giveaway last year, the organisation is returning once more to reconnect with the community.

“Our focus is on reducing barriers to sport, recreation and play, while keeping quality equipment in circulation and out of the landfill,” said founder Sharon Gibson.

“ReSport is inviting the community to connect with us, learn more about our work, and help us extend our reach. We’re focussed on growing our impact in Dargaville and the Kaipara District, and meeting face to face is an important part of strengthening that connection.” The trust is seeking local volunteers to help at its Art Beat stall, later this month, who are willing to share ReSport’s mission and impact in their own town.

“People age 16 and over with an interest in sport, teamwork, community

impact and giving back are encouraged to volunteer.

“They will be supporting community members by helping them find the right sizes in footwear, activewear and sports gear — so they can get active.”

A QR code to place online orders will be available when needs can’t be met on the day. Volunteers need to apply to info@resport.co.nz and be screened in advance. ReSport will be back in the area in April for the Fireco Northland Triathlon based at Kai Iwi Lakes. ¢

Who speaks for your children if you can’t?

u by Natalie Robinson, WRMK Lawyers

Thinking about what would happen to your children if you pass away is not a comfortable exercise, but it is one many parents quietly worry about.

One of the most practical ways to plan for that possibility is to appoint a testamentary guardian in your will.

A testamentary guardian is a person named in your will to help make important decisions for your child if you die before they turn 18. It is not about day-today parenting in the sense of school lunches or bedtime routines. Instead, a testamentary guardian steps in to have a legal say on the big issues: education choices, medical treatment, where a child lives, and even whether they move towns or countries. For many families, the role is also about protecting a child’s cultural identity.

There is a common misunderstanding that appointing a testamentary guardian means that person automatically takes custody of your child. That is not the case. You cannot give custody through a will. Day-to-day care is usually worked out through informal family arrangements or, if needed, through a parenting order made by the Family Court. What a testamentary guardian does have, however, is the right to apply to the court to become the child’s day-to-day carer if that becomes necessary.

The appointment itself is straightforward. The person must be at least 20 years old to be appointed, and you can name only one testamentary guardian in your will. You should choose someone you trust, who understands your values, and is realistically able to take on the responsibility. While a person named as a testamentary guardian cannot simply refuse the role, they can apply to the court to be removed if circumstances change and they are no longer suitable.

The Family Court acts as an important safeguard. Its guiding principle is always the best interests of the child. If there is a dispute, or if no guardian has been appointed, the court can step in and appoint a guardian. Wider family members can also apply to the court if they believe a child’s welfare is at risk.

For parents who are separated, the situation is slightly different. If one parent dies and has appointed a testamentary guardian, that person generally becomes a joint guardian alongside the surviving parent. Decisions about the child must then be made together, which can provide an extra layer of support and oversight.

Testamentary guardianship highlights why having a will matters, particularly when children are involved. Without a will, families are often left dealing with uncertainty at an already distressing time. Clear instructions can ease tension, reduce disputes, and provide reassurance

that your children will be supported by people you trust.

Taking the time now to put a will in place, and to carefully consider who should act as a testamentary guardian, is an important step that parents can take to protect their children’s future. ¢

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u by Andy Bryenton

Moving heavy steel Showtime for motoring legends

All the pieces for the first Kaiwaikawe wind farm turbine were in place last week when the Lifestyler was on-site, viewing the immense blades with lightning-safe construction, the drive train and the tower itself, anchored in 800 tonnes of concrete.

The project forges ahead, despite an incident last week when one of the large tower sections used to support one of the 12 turbines became temporarily stuck on the final leg of its journey, succumbing to a ditch on Babylon Coast Road. Thankfully, some of the most experienced heavy-lift crane operators in the country were already part of the multidisciplinary team putting the wind farm together, and the schedule of construction can continue.

will be assembled by the largest moving crane in the southern hemisphere.

u by Andy Bryenton

Dargaville will host a gathering of classic cars, custom hot rods and unique motorcycles this weekend, inviting crowds of visitors to enjoy some west coast hospitality.

The show began as a friendly get-together on the grounds of Greg Smith Engineering, but in recent years, a shift to the Northland Field Days’ site has seen the event come into its own as a red-letter day on the car culture calendar. In 2025, hundreds of street machines packed the site, with plenty of room to spread out and be admired — this year promises to be even bigger.

Components like these will continue to travel the route from Northport to Whangārei, then west on State Highway 14 through Tangiterōria and Dargaville, before a final gravel-road traverse to the Omamari site. The final deliveries are slated for May.

Tower sections will roll through Dargaville 60 times in total. The blades will take up a further 36 deliveries, and there will also be specialist heavy-duty trucks for the 12 turbines, drive trains

Photographers and interested citizens have risen very early to catch a glimpse of the heavy convoys moving these giant components, and the timing of the transit has meant minimal delays. Necessary upgrades to the highway have led to an improvement for those who make the Whangārei commute, and there’s been care taken for denizens of the final country section of the route as well, with fences erected to keep the local native bitterns safe from heavy vehicles. ¢

Greg and his Dargaville Rod and Custom Club supporters have made the best use of this very logical space in the same way that their colleagues in Kūmeu have founded a legacy event in their own part of the country. The field days’ site has wide avenues and acres of flat, well-drained grass to serve as a canvas for the chrome and custom paint jobs on display.

As well as being able to appreciate row after row of Chevrolets, Buicks, Dodges, Fords, Holdens, Pontiacs and

many other classics, there’s a whole section for motorcycles and a massive swap meet with parts, accessories and automobilia. Things aren’t confined to one particular era or nation of origin, either; if your car or bike is special, rare or interesting, it’s welcome. Entertainment comes from a live band on stage, as well as a chance to relax amid a sea of classic cars and indulge in cuisine from a fleet of food trucks. It all happens from 10am on March 14, down at the field days site just outside Dargaville on State Highway 14. ¢

Fun is on the cards A village of abundance

u

by

Andy Bryenton

Dargaville Bridge Club celebrates 50 years of fellowship and fun this month, and to commemorate the occasion they are inviting locals to give the game a go.

Nicola Puharich will host lessons to help introduce newcomers to the game, which she says is highly social, highly addictive and highly enjoyable. With no betting and gambling, it’s all about working alongside a partner to outfox the opposition for friendly bragging rights.

“My mother had played bridge since I was a kid, and wanted me to give it a go, but I put it off. When I finally went along to the club I was hooked, and I wish I had tried it a heck of a lot earlier,” says Nicola.

before,” says Nicola. “Bridge keeps you sharp, it’s good for your brain, and it’s very social.”

u by Andy Bryenton

The Maungatūroto Edible Village Project is part of this year’s Northland Edible Garden Trail, and it’s growing fast toward a future when there’s abundant produce for everyone.

“The Maungatūroto Country Club paddock is looking lovely with the fruit trees beginning to establish and the food forest growing so fast! We harvested our first pumpkins and it felt awesome to give them to Tiny Tōtaras — Home Based Childcare for their lunch-time soup making, and to the local food bank,” says project coordinator Josie Gritten.

Now it’s her mission to share the game with others, guiding them through how it all works and letting them join in the fun. While it’s a game you do have to learn, it’s not all about higher mathematics, just working as a team and being quick-witted with the cards.

“If you can count to 13, you can play bridge, and it’s not a game with age limits. We have had 10-yearolds and 80-year-olds in our classes

The lessons are hands-on, easy to grasp and will have newcomers playing like seasoned pros in no time. They begin on Tuesday, March 24 at the Kiosk in Memorial Park, just off Logan Street in Dargaville, from 6.30pm. Bring a gold coin donation and your enthusiasm. Everything else will be provided, says Nicola. You can call club captain Peter Ball for more information on 022 405 6439. ¢

The trees planted at Bickerstaffe Road, the View Street playground, the Good News Church and elsewhere are also thriving, with citrus, stonefruit and herbs coming up strong. Now Josie and her team of green-fingered volunteers are looking to the future, planning a working bee to plant herbs, establish veggie planter boxes at the Kaipara Kids Childcare Centre and help nurture the growth of established trees.

To rally support for this growing initiative, the project has launched a pair of regular events which will keep people informed and engaged. The first is a weekly Grow and Grow meet-up at the Maungatūroto Country Club on Mondays, from 9.30 am. This one’s all about

parents and children gardening together. The second is a monthly meet-up to plan the next four weeks of activity and have some input into the EVP. It’s held on the fourth Sunday of the month, at 4pm, at the Centennial Hall.

For more information on the Maungatūroto Edible Village Project and how you can get involved, call Josie 021 234 0519 or email josiegritten@gmail. com.

To join in with the Wha Kaupeka — Four Seasons programme teaching young people about edible and medicinal plants in the area, email joss-martin@ hotmail.com. ¢

Landfill court action continues

u by Paul Campbell

In the wake of the Environment Court decision to give the green light to a mega-dump for Auckland’s waste in the Dome Valley, court action is still to continue with Forest and Bird having leave to go to the Court of Appeal.

The Waste Management landfill proposal has been fought by various community sectors led by the Fight The Tip movement, which was “devastated by the latest Environment Court decision,” said FTT executive member Sue Crockett. “We are not involved in the Forest and Bird action but supportive of it. However, we are still involved in the conditions that are applicable to the Environment Court decision.”

The landfill on 60 hectares is expected to take about half of Auckland’s annual rubbish output, and objections have ranged over a threat from weather events to the Kaipara Harbour marine ecosystem, through the Hōteo River watershed and destruction of flora and fauna.

Earlier court evidence has heard that the dump designated area is home to a range of bird species, as well as fish, Hochstetter’s frogs and native bats. Forest and Bird’s lawyer May Downing says landfill approval raises questions on river protection in New Zealand. “Not just a river that’s nice to look at, but an essential habitat for indigenous freshwater species.”

Waste Management has proposed a package to address the stream loss, including riparian planting in the local watershed that feeds the Kaipara Harbour. Forest and Bird’s appeal cites the National Policy Statement for Freshwater Management and whether it allows streams to be affected by a landfill.

While Waste Management is against the leave for appeal being granted, this sentiment has been echoed by iwi leadership of Ngāti Whātua, this stance is let subject to opposition from the wider iwi who claim non-consultation.

The Puatahi Marae, near the Hōteo, has also demonstrated its concern against the landfill. ¢

Times Gone By

Last of the big exports

In 1910, one of the largest exports of kauri timber, some 2 million feet (609,600m) of sawn planks left the Te Kōpuru sawmilling plant for an overseas destination. The year before, the Aratapu mill had been closed down; a forewarning of the dwindling kauri forest resources in the region. Image credit: Auckland Libraries Heritage Collections

An all-night wait

Flooding between Hoteo and Wayby prevented a passenger train from Whangarei from reaching Auckland. It was decided to hold the train over at Maungaturoto, where refreshments were available and wait until the water level was low enough to negotiate. The train proceeded on to Auckland the next day; the flooded area carefully navigated in the affected area.

Auckland Star, July 27 1927

Patrol foils burglars

A group formed by Mangawhai residents to combat crime has proved itself in its first week. Early yesterday a patrol helped police catch two burglars who had broken into and stolen property from a primary school.

Press, August 24 1991

School camp a success Challenging coastal rescue

u by Andy Bryenton

The years may pass, but some parts of school life in New Zealand remain the same, including the long-standing tradition of a school camp with outdoor adventures to experience.

It was in the spirit of this highlight of the academic year that 115 Dargaville Primary School students headed out to Marsden Bay Christian Camp for fun and learning, assisted by the folks from North Rodney Blue Light.

The year five and six students enjoyed the flying fox and waterslide at the camp, as well as hands-on adventure skills, such as kayaking, archery, air rifle target shooting, delivered by Blue Light, the school’s outdoor activity partner for the past 15 years.

“The camp was led by teacher Leanne Phillips, supported by dedicated school staff and parent helpers,” said Blue Light’s Shane Gould. “A special feature of the week was Beach Day, delivered by the Ruakākā Surf Life Saving Club.

Students gained important water safety knowledge while enjoying a day at the beach under expert supervision.”

It was the fourth consecutive year the Marsden Bay Christian Camp has hosted Dargaville Primary School students on their camping adventure. Those who attended were impressed by the goodwill, the laughter and the wonderful late summer weather, and expressed their thanks to the volunteers who made the trip possible. Of special note was the calibre of the camp food on offer to fuel the young adventurers. New skills were learned, confidence grew, friendships were made, and the year five and six students now have an experience they can share in common with many of their parents: a proper New Zealand summer school camp. ¢

IDEAL SOLUTIONS TRANSPORT

u by Andy Bryenton

The newly formed Mangawhai Coastguard was put to the test last week when the sailing yacht Muritai ran into bad weather and suffered a damaged boom.

The yacht was headed south last Tuesday and, despite a good forecast, the swell was soon up to three metres, causing the crew to look for options for shelter. Dropping the mainsail in rising winds, the captain noticed that it was stuck, and that this fault had damaged the boom. As wind backfilled the sail, further damage was caused, and some rigging and lines went overboard.

With waves breaking over the yacht, a distress call was made on VHF channel 16, calling the Coastguard for aid. Vessels from Kawau, Whangārei and Mangawhai were deployed, but it was the Kokako from Mangawhai that arrived first on the scene. The captain of the Muritai says that without intercession, they would have struck land within half an hour, a very dangerous situation. Kokako’s master Roy Pearson said the decision not to tow Muritai, just shepherd them back to Whangārei Harbour, was made in the interests of safety.

“They were making slow but steady progress towards shelter, so we were there as a guardian, prepared to take a tow if necessary,” Roy said. Speaking of his crew, he said they did everything

right, the many hours of training kicking in.

“We used every tool we had at our disposal; the teamwork was great. The rescuers had their challenges, not the least of which was negotiating the Mangawhai bar in the face of three to four-metre swells. All were impressed with Kokako’s seakeeping abilities.”

“We can’t thank you guys enough for what you did for us and are doing in the community,” said the captain of the rescued yacht.

The names of the captain and crew of the Muritai have been withheld for reasons of privacy by request. ¢

by Andy Bryenton

Rock pools and rock stars

Fisheries Minister Shane Jones has moved quickly to put a stop to the practice of rock pool overfishing, a blight on the intertidal zone which has seen some shorelines scraped bare.

The ban sits just south of Kaipara, with a special focus on the east coast beaches of northern Auckland, but this might change if the people abusing the right to harvest seafood decide to move north. Mr Jones has shown in his lobster ban stance that he’s not afraid to shut down species and areas to save them.

This has prompted a warning to Kaipara residents to be on the watch for rock pool piracy shifting north out of the area of the embargo. When the west coast beaches of the Auckland region were closed to four-wheel-drive enthusiasts, many of these 4x4 adventurers moved north to Kaipara, and while the majority of these visitors are good folks, who are by no means unwelcome, the same can’t be said for those who stoop to scouring rock pools to death.

Of course, there’s another question behind all of this. I’m reminded of Alexander Solzhenitsyn’s book, The Gulag Archipelago, here. In the introduction, he talks about scientists marvelling at a news story from Siberia, about how workers there had been able to eat

prehistoric lizards preserved under ancient ice. His question wasn’t about how well preserved the extinct animals were, but this: what drives a person to actually eat something like that? Solzhenitsyn’s answer was Stalinism and starvation.

Who wants to eat a soup boiled up from rock pool scrapings? I’d have to guess they can’t afford other alternatives. As the cost-of-living crisis ratchets up, there’s a lot of this going around. If fisheries officers catch these plunderers, alongside investigating their apparent ecological moral failings, perhaps they’d better investigate the state of their cupboards.

Other help aside, the ban is a good thing. In the final reckoning, preserving nature from exploitation that leads to total death is of utmost importance. Something to remember when fasttrack applications are considered for that same seabed and foreshore.

Now, a final metaphor. The rock pools represent our infrastructure, slow to grow or grow back. The overfishers represent explosive population growth to fake a rock star economy. When the load breaks the system, you’ll only be able to see the crabs and anemones in a privatised aquarium. ¢

The march of pines

If you stand in Normanby Street, Dargaville, at any given time during the weekdays, you will see 50-tonne truck-and-trailer units loaded with logs heading for the Marsden Port. Every four minutes or so, another logging unit passes through Dargaville.

I have asked this question of many people: ‘Have you ever seen an IKEA log?’ I know the answer. The Swedes do not export logs. The dumbest country in the world does.

It is well known that pine trees degrade the land that they are planted on. What is perhaps not so well known is the cost of remediating the land back to pasture. This is a very expensive exercise, and you can bet that if the land is ever remediated back to pasture, that it will be a cost borne by New Zealanders.

What is not well known is that pasture sequesters as much carbon as pine trees. What is not considered is that we do not have to give up productive land to pine trees. What is not considered — is that farms support families.

Once a farm has been sold for forestry, the family moves off the land.

Once one farm is sold then it is highly likely that other farms in the vicinity will also be bought. Ten farms are sold, that is potentially 30 pupils that are no longer attending schools local to their farm. Ten families that are not shopping at their local shop.

Ten families that are not shopping at their local nearest town. Families not living in their local community multiplied by however many farms that were replaced with pine trees. This is how communities die. Sequestered means isolated or hidden away. It does not mean eliminated.

We are willingly destroying land that produces our biggest export earnings for overseas hedge funds and investors to plant pine trees, so that they can claim carbon credits for pollution that was not even generated in our part of the world. If the trees are ever harvested they are not even processed in New Zealand.

Dairy farming produces an income from the milk and cream every day of the year. Pine trees are harvested once between 20 to 30 years.

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Funding for community resilience Works balanced east and west

u by Andy Bryenton

Northland Regional Council’s Climate Resilience Communities Fund is open for applications, and it’s about empowering community groups to ensure power, water, food and planning are in place to get through adverse weather events.

Of 45 projects given a share of $1.2 million across two rounds of funding, only five have been in Kaipara. Hence, as round three prepares to launch, calling for applicants, the message is out to community groups in the district to make an application.

Recipients include the Dargaville Intermediate School’s solar installation, providing energy resilience for the kura and its community spaces, teaching tamariki about sustainability. This NRC fund has also helped launch the Maungatūroto Residents Association’s Edible Village Project, which is featured elsewhere in this publication as they plan to expand on their success and grow even more fruit, veggies and herbs at more locations.

compromise access to food, water and energy supplies.

“The people who live in a community know best what their local area needs to improve its resilience. Through this fund, we’re supporting communities to lead the change they need by contributing resources for them to plan ahead and turn their plans into action.”

u by Andy Bryenton

Kaipara District Council documents prepared ahead of this week’s briefing in Tangiterōria show that there are 111 projects underway across the district, and break down where they are being undertaken.

More than $44 million is being invested in open spaces and parks, storm water and water utilities upgrades, roading and footpaths, flood protection works and even a dog shelter upgrade for animal control services.

Improvements to the Dargaville refuse transfer station made the list in their planning stages, as did the remediation of the Dargaville Town Hall and the design of Urlich Park in Mangawhai.

“Our communities need to be well prepared for how severe weather events can impact them,” says NRC chair Pita Tipene.

“We’re already seeing how these events can threaten people’s lives, damage homes and infrastructure, leave communities cut off, and

If you are part of a community group that has plans to increase energy independence, food sustainability or disaster resilience, you might be eligible for funding. Applicants can apply for grants of between $5,000 and $40,000, at nrc.govt.nz/ climateresiliencefunding. ¢

The figures, reflecting project delivery to the end of January, show that there’s relatively balanced investment across the district in council projects, both in their number and in fiscal cost. There are 29 projects listed in Dargaville, with a further eight in satellite townships such as Glinks Gully, Te Kōpuru and Baylys Beach. Two more are listed for Kai Iwi Lakes and the Taharoa Domain. There are 27 projects active in Mangawhai, with four more in Kaiwaka, five in Maungatūroto and two each in Pahi and Tinopai.

The broad division of funding shows the Kaiwaka and Mangawhai have

a projected budget of $17.68 million, while $15.38 million has been allocated to the Dargaville area. The remainder of the $44 million projects budget to the end of January was used to fund works in the Ōtamatea ward, from Ruawai to Maungatūroto, or north in Aranga and Kaihū.

In addition, 27 projects of benefit to the entire district were funded to the value of $8.1 million in this report. The number one programme delivery risk shared by all these important works is listed as staffing. The KDC is working to fill vacancies, including a project manager for infrastructure delivery. ¢

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Catherine Obenza – Facility Manager

Catherine Obenza has been part of the Norfolk Court team since 2021, when she first joined as a Registered Nurse. Thanks to her dedication and natural leadership, she was promoted to Facility Manager in 2023. Catherine now oversees the day-to-day running of the facility, supporting both residents and staff to ensure everyone receives the care and attention they deserve. She works closely with the owner, Lidija Brence, to continue providing the warm, caring environment Norfolk Court is known for. Catherine is passionate about caring for the elderly and finds great joy in helping improve the wellbeing and quality of life of the residents she works with every day.

Supporting Catherine is our Clinical Manager, Litty Sebastian, who works closely alongside both Catherine and Lidija. Litty plays an important role in overseeing the clinical care of our residents and supporting the nursing team to ensure the highest standards of care are maintained throughout the facility.

Norfolk Court in the Community

Being part of the Dargaville community means a lot to us at Norfolk Court. We enjoy getting our residents out and involved in local events whenever possible. From visiting field days in town to attending community activities, these outings give residents the chance to enjoy a change of scenery and stay connected with the community. It’s always great to see the smiles and laughter that come from these trips, and we are proud to help our residents continue to be part of everyday life in Dargaville.

Show home now open

Our show home is now open by appointment Experience

The Tides in person and imagine your retirement in Mangawhai’s first retirement village where low-maintenance coastal living meets spacious villas, real community connection, and the lifestyle you love

Surrounded by nature in one of Northland’s most soughtafter seaside towns, The Tides is relaxed, welcoming, and effortlessly connected where every day feels like a holiday

Find a village that feels like home Call Leanne MacDonald on 09 222 1348 leannem@metlifecare co nz

15 Sailrock Drive, Mangawhai metlifecare co nz

Wine and dine for community spirit

u by Amy Fifita

A way to fundraise for the local community, the Mangawhai

out with new improvements and a fresh line-up.

“It is a fun day out, with lots of great music, good friends sitting around enjoying drinks, listening to wonderful music. When concerts are getting really expensive to attend, our festival is an inexpensive day out,” said Mandy Hebben.

Featuring acoustic musician Dan Roderick, the renowned tribute band Abba Heaven; Kiwi and Aussie rockers Tasman AZ are booked, and DJ Dougy G will play in between sets. This year, guests will see some improvements to the VIP section and some additions to the setup.

“This year, we are very excited to have a new and improved VIP marquee for tables of 10 and wonderful platters. Plant House is providing us with amazing greenery to be situated throughout the space.

“There will be dedicated portaloos and a bar within the VIP tent. We have just released the option of single VIP tickets, so people can sit at a mixed table of 10 people. People can also book a gazebo, it comes with six tickets.”

Two new breweries and a winery will be in attendance offering guests refreshing adult beverages. Popular wine and beer

sellers like Sawmill, Brooke Lane, Millars and McLeod’s will be there, too.

“Phat House and Q Brew, and a vineyard, 144 Island Wines, have come on board. We have some new food vendors this year. We have a new barbecue vendor, sweet treats, Thai and pizza. Some local favourites like Little Red Fish, Pasta e Basta, and the Greenview Cafe and Thai are coming, too.”

While the day centres on having a ball with friends, the wider part of

the event surrounds on benefitting significant groups in the community. This year the Mangawhai Coastguard is the main beneficiary.

“The highlight for us is being able to give back to our community. We are very grateful to New World Mangawhai for being our platinum sponsor, and all the other ones, because we couldn’t do it without them.” Ensuring everyone gets home safely, free loop buses will be provided on the day. One bus will do the

Tara Road, Cove Road and Molesworth Drive route, with three buses running from the bottom of Mangawhai Road and along Molesworth Drive.

Visit mangawhailionsclub.flicket.co.nz to book a ticket or mangawhailions.com for more information.

“If people want to be part of events like this and to give back to the community, Mangawhai Lions is always looking for new members. Get in touch with Clive at 021 802 532 or drop us a message.” ¢

AUTO & MARINE

Generation nine pushes boundaries

u by Andy Bryenton

In December last year, excitement began to build about the new Toyota Hilux, following a test drive by Toyota New Zealand representatives in Australia. Now it’s here.

While the classic ute certainly had big boots to fill, it acquitted itself with honour across the ditch. However, by Toyota’s own admission, Kiwi terrain is a whole other paradigm, despite having less spiders and snakes.

“New Zealand is one of the most challenging environments we have evaluated. After seeing the conditions here, I am confident the new Hilux will serve customers well,” said Hilux project chief engineer Anyarat Sutthibenjakul.

Fast-forward to the Northland Field Days, and the chance to take the new Hilux for a drive. Sitting next to its old stablemate from 1985, the hexmesh grille makes sense; it’s a nod to the front treatment of that venerable ancestor. All the rest, though, is totally new. We’ve looked at the aesthetics and the comfortable cab of the 2026 Hilux in previews, however; so down to the main course.

This was the turbo-diesel automatic variant, and the first thing you’ll notice is that it’s quiet for all its on-tap torque. Part of that is the cabin itself; a place of more comfort and luxury than in previous generations, though none of the utility has been sacrificed. Power delivery is linear

and smooth, seemingly unfazed by either stop-go traffic or rural hills. The rev-matching tech of the six-speed box has garnered praise, but this automatic was silent, effective and effortless.

Out on to the highway and then some twisty rural byways, and the new Hilux proved the case for its electric power steering, which felt predictable and very capable. The whole sensation made the voluminous big ute feel like a much smaller car to command, and the tweaks made to the suspension system underneath also made this Hilux feel more stable and planted, even with nothing in the tray. Kiwi drivers will spend a lot of time on the back roads, and a measured, confident steering response just feels better in these conditions.

Driving the 2026 Hilux was a lesson in why the name Hilux sits right at the top of the premium ute leaderboard for all time. For many people, it’s either the Hilux or its big blue rival which takes the crown when they think of the best buy in the segment. This

p The 2026 Toyota Hilux will come in a variety of variants, including a hybrid iteration proves why; it’s the culmination of decades of refinement. It delivers the legendary Toyota build quality, fit and finish with no wild gimmicks, just more stability, space, power and comfort than

the previous generation, and it does it without inflating the price.

You know what else is a classic recipe? Chocolate cake. The new Hilux is proof that you can have it, and eat it too. ¢

AUTO & MARINE

A quarter century of sowing

u by Andy Bryenton

Pöttinger celebrates 25 years of seed drill innovation this year, and as the calendar turns to autumn,

labour can be seen in hundreds of Kiwi fields.

Pöttinger may have 25 candles on its cake when it comes to seed drills, but the firm has been in the business of building agricultural machinery for one and a half centuries. Much of that time was spent developing better machines for grassland farming, but in 1975, Pöttinger bought out the Bavarian Plough Factory, a massive industrial powerhouse in the city of Landsberg am Lech. That’s just down German Highway 96 from Munich, the home of BMW, so this part of the world knows its engineering.

The development of arable land became a priority at Pöttinger. It became apparent that mechanical and pneumatic seed drills were the way of the future, and in 2001, Pöttinger made a move similar to that which had seen it take command of the Bavarian Plough Factory. The Rabe seed drill plant in Bernberg joined the company, and a mighty weight of engineering know-how was bent toward innovating the seed drill into the precision implement Pöttinger offers today. Sometimes, you can look back on a long history, such as that of the motor car, and watch it evolve toward the modern era. With Pöttinger’s leap into seed drills, that evolution was put into top gear. By 2003,

two years after first entering the market, Pöttinger released the Terrasem, a mulching seed drill which threw down the gauntlet to competitors with fresh technology. In 2009, the firm was confident enough to launch its Vitasem drill at Agritechnica, the world’s biggest implement and tractor show, highlighting precise seed metering.

Pöttinger engineers may not have won machine of the year in the fierce competition of that year’s Agritechnica, but in 2013, just 12 years after first getting into seed drills, the Pöttinger Aerosem pneumatic drill took the gold.

In the years that followed, higher precision, bigger capacities, front hoppers and low-draft, high-output options hit the market. Pöttinger took over Italian manufacturer MaterMacc in 2022, and last year it was back at Agritechnica with the prototype of the Puro precision planter, debuting next-level precision close to home in Hanover.

Pöttinger’s stated mission is to make farmers’ lives easier, and it’s delivered some popular innovations in the past quarter century to achieve this goal. As farms combine automation with information to boost efficiency, the company’s focus on precision looks like a smart move for the next one. ¢

Kaipara Kōrero

News

from Kaipara District Council

Rural Travel Fund now open for applications

The Rural Travel Fund aims to subsidise travel for junior sports teams (5 to 18 year olds) participating in local competitions. Applications for the fund are now open and close on 31 March. Find out more and apply at kaipara govt nz/funding

Dangerous, Affected and Insanitary Buildings Policy

We’ve reviewed our Dangerous, Affected and Insanitary Buildings Policy and are now seeking public feedback on our proposed changes. Visit kaipara.govt.nz/haveyoursay to read about the proposed changes and tell us what you think. Feedback closes 30 March

Nominate your local legend

Now is your chance to celebrate the amazing people who make Kaipara such a special place. We’re on the hunt for our everyday heroes who go above and beyond for others, with nominations open for the 2026 Kaipara Citizens Awards Nominations are open until 30 April. Find out more at kaipara. govt.nz/funding.

Thanks for the feedback!

Thanks to everyone who stopped to chat with us at Northland Field Days recently With the sunshine, big crowds, and plenty of great conversations, it turned into a fantastic few days. We’ll be at the Mangawhai Market later this month and are looking forward to catching up with more of you there So far, more than 530 people have chatted with us in person and had a go at our interactive activity, and over 140 have completed our online survey If you’d like to share your thoughts and help shape the priorities for the next Long Term Plan, you can add your feedback via the QR code below or go online to kaipara govt nz/haveyoursay Feedback closes 22 March

We’re only at the beginning of our work to prepare the Long Term Plan for 2027–2037, and we’re excited to keep the conversation going with communities across the district over the coming year. Formal consultation will happen next year.

Victoria Street road rehabilitation

Work to strengthen the road and improve storm resilience on Dargaville’s Victoria Street, between State Highway 12 and 204 Victoria Street, is scheduled to begin this month. During construction there will be a road closure and short detour in place. Please allow extra travel time.

Waihue Bridge works

Bridge repairs on Waihue Road (at the intersection of 316 Waihue Road and Parore West Road) will take place between 13 and 17 April. During this work there will be a road closure on Waihue Road with a detour in place via State Highway 12

SH12 Ruawai – Upcoming road rebuild

Wharehine Construction Limited on behalf of NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) will be carrying out drainage and road rebuild works on State Highway 12 between Hodgson and Wallace Roads, as part of the renewals programme, between Monday 9 March and Thursday 2 April During the work there will be a 24/7 single lane closure, speed restrictions, and Stop/Go traffic management in place. Find out more at nzta govt nz/projects

Council meetings

• Long Term Plan Briefing, 10am Wednesday 11 March, Tangiteroria Community Complex, 23 Pukehuia Road, Tangiteroria and on YouTube

• Taharoa Domain Governance Committee, 10am Tuesday 17 March, Lighthouse Function Centre, 32 Mount Wesley Coast Road, Dargaville.

• Harding Park Committee, 1pm Tuesday 17 March, Lighthouse Function Centre, 32 Mount Wesley Coast Road, Dargaville

• Council Meeting, 10am Wednesday 25 March, Tangiteroria Community Complex, 23 Pukehuia Road, Tangiteroria and on YouTube

• Council Briefing, 10am Wednesday 1 April, KDC Conference Room, 1C Molesworth Drive, Mangawhai and on YouTube

• Long Term Plan Briefing, 10am Wednesday 8 April, KDC Conference Room, 1C Molesworth Drive, Mangawhai

See our website for the most up-to-date information or call 0800 727 059 and ask to speak to a Governance Advisor

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

Top library picks for March

u by Andy Bryenton

Dire Bound by Sable Sorensen

Fantastical sword and sorcery with added romance and action, highly recommended by Dargaville librarians as the top novel of its genre for 2025. In the world of Meryn Cooper, knights don’t ride horses. Instead, the King’s elite warriors are mentally linked to immense direwolves, creatures of savagery and power. Meryn is just a normal person in the shadow of their war against an immortal enemy, until it becomes personal; her sister Saela is kidnapped, and it’s up to Meryn to do what it takes to rescue her. Fans of the hit Fourth Wing series will enjoy this reader-acclaimed fantasy romance.

Tingle

The enigmatic Chuck Tingle has crafted a surreal X-files fever dream of a novel here, blending a spy thriller, cutting-edge sci-fi and a little bit of existential angst into a page turner, which still manages to float some wild, high-concept ideas. When shadowy corporate forces weaponise luck itself and threaten reality, it’s up to a burned-out statistician and a creepily upbeat secret agent to team up and fix the literal holes in the universe. Their trip takes them to the heart of darkness in Las Vegas, and into memories of the most bizarre natural disaster ever, which warped both of their lives out of shape.

WHAT’S ON?

March

Tupuna Parenting Foundation — 1 to 30 Mar, Plunket Clinic, 29 Hokianga Rd. Contact cherrie.christy-hita@ plunket.org.nz.

Twilight Bowls — 11 & 25 Mar. Games start 5.45pm, $10pp includes light meal. Teams of 3, great for family, friends or workplace groups. Contact Max Jones 027 439 7714, Ron Bishop 027 535 7214.

Hot Rods & Harleys — 14 Mar, 10am to 3pm. Car and bike show. Dargaville Field Days Site, $5 entry. No dogs. Email hotrodsandharleys2017@gmail.com.

ArtBeat Carnival — 21 Mar, 10am to 2pm, Dargaville Riverside Gardens. Celebrating creativity in Kaipara. Free community event.

Sunrise on the Reaping by

Suzanne Collins

A hit prequel to the Hunger Games series, this book follows events 24 years before the popular films and the books that inspired them. Haymitch Abernathy is a young man who is chosen as a tribute; a sacrifice for the 50th Hunger Games, sent to fight in a ritualised, politicised blood sport. Initially, he feels doomed to fail and never leave the arena. However, there’s a part of him that won’t give up and die that easily, and his choices will deeply affect all those around him, and eventually, his whole world. This is a book for young adult readers, but it’s hard-hitting and tackles big themes with a fastpaced story.

Stuart Turton

In his first novel, Stuart Turton turns the detective genre inside out, delivering a delicious puzzle, which blends the classic whodunnit with a dizzying twist. Evelyn Hardcastle has been murdered, and there’s a manor house of party guests who all have shady pasts and motives. However, this is not a normal mystery. The key to unravelling it is Aiden Bishop, who is having a groundhog-day dilemma. Every day he wakes up inhabiting the body of one of the guests. Every day repeats, meaning that Evelyn will die over and over again until Aiden solves the murder. This mind-bending mystery is not for the faint of heart, and it’s been called ‘the literary equivalent of Hellraiser’s puzzle box’ by reviewers. Figure it out before Aiden does and you’re a certified genius … or quite mad.

Inland Revenue Clinic — Tues 24 Mar, Heartland Services, Whanau Focus Bldg, 61 Victoria St. Bookings essential. 09 439 7009 or 021 245 3765.

Kauri Coast Surfcasting Contest — 28 Mar, Omamari Beach. Tickets available on the day. $50 per entry. 1st prize $3,000 heaviest kahawai, 2nd prize $2,000 cash, 3rd prize $1,000 cash. Prizes for heaviest snapper & trevally. Also spot prizes.

April

1st Dargaville Girls’ Brigade 40th Birthday Party 30 Apr, 3pm to 5pm, The Lighthouse Church, 78 Normanby St. Contact Team Leader Pauline 021 263 7446.

THE 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

EMAIL info@dcdb.nz

Markets

helenat@sportnorth.co.nz

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).

dargaville@cab.org.nz

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.

WED 11 4:06am (2.8m) 10:16am (1.2m) 4:27pm (2.6m) 10:41pm (1.1m) THU 12 5:01am (2.6m) 11:16am (1.3m) 5:28pm (2.5m) 11:43pm (1.2m) FRI 13 6:13am (2.6m) 12:32pm (1.3m) 6:46pm (2.5m) SAT 14 1:01am (1.2m) 7:36am (2.6m) 1:55pm (1.2m) 8:08pm (2.6m)

FRI 13 3:22am (2.2m) 9:26am (1.1m) 3:30pm (2.2m) 9:45pm (1.0m) SAT 14 4:24am (2.2m) 10:25am (1.1m) 4:30pm (2.2m) 10:49pm (1.0m) SUN 15 5:23am (2.2m) 11:22am (1.0m) 5:32pm (2.2m) 11:48pm (1.0m)

MON 16 6:16am (2.3m) 12:14pm (1.0m) 6:31pm (2.2m)

TUE 17 12:40am (0.9m) 7:04am (2.4m) 1:03pm (0.9m) 7:23pm (2.3m)

PUZZLE TIME

1 Picked (5) 4 Famous, scrutinised and often discussed (2,3,6,3) 11 Internally covered (5) 14 The staff of life (5) 15 Not prudent or wise (11) 16 Anguish (8) 19 Medieval chemistry (7) 20 Harass relentlessly (5)

(9)

(9)

(6)

Sculpted figure (6)

Necklace (5)

Target centre (8)

Look (10) 38 Rumour (7)

39 Provisions (6)

40 Large birdcage (6)

41 Dirty fog (4)

42 Early writing material (7)

45 Castle ramp (10)

50 Income (7)

54 Rich soil (4)

55 Organised massacre of an ethnic group (6)

56 Drudge, domestic servant (6)

57 In a perfect world (7)

60 Cold continent (10)

61 Typographical error (8)

62 Search (5)

65 Marked correct (6)

66 Eyesight (6)

67 World War II bomber (9)

72 Fatherhood (9)

73 In preparation or progress (5)

74 Marsh gas (7)

79 Drawn from a diversity of sources (8)

80 Intricate (11)

81 Messenger (5)

82 Surgical pads (5)

83 Playing card (4,2,8)

84 Beating utensil (5) DOWN

2 Leap over (6)

3 Shatter (5)

5 Nix (4)

6 Extremely ugly (7)

7 Supple (6)

8 Pulse (4)

9 Inactivity (8)

10 Mystery (6)

11 Written works (10)

12 Requisite (4)

13 Argue (7)

17 Cautionary traffic light (5)

18 Causing trouble, confusion (10)

22 Nail with large flat head (5)

23 Stand-in for dangerous film scenes (8)

25 Hospital employee (7)

26 Item of furniture (7)

28 City in Switzerland (6)

29 Old language (6)

30 Cheque presenter (6)

33 Afterwards (5)

35 Large bird (5)

36 Japanese earthenware (4)

37 Surprise attack (4)

42 Lively dance (5)

43 Customary action (8)

44 Silky (6)

45 Instructions for getting there (10)

46 Intentions (4)

47 Bridegroom’s attendant (4,3)

48 Cities (anag)(6)

49 Donor (5)

51 Small whirlpool (4)

52 Person moved from place of danger (7)

53 If not (6)

58 Causes for complaint (10)

59 Light meal (5)

63 Highly skilled musician (8)

64 Burnt remnants (5)

65 Starred (anag)(7)

68 Leathery-skinned fruit (7)

69 Area (6)

70 A continent (6)

71 Delights in (6)

75 Intuitive feeling (5)

76 Supplication (4)

77 Potato (4)

78 Repair (4)

Sudoku

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

ACROSS: 1 Scenery, 4 Standing by, 9 Stopgap, 13 Airy, 14 Accent, 15 Signal, 16 Anatomy, 19 Grindstone, 20 Intended, 21 Snarl, 24 Despot, 25 Chorus, 27 Spherical, 32 Starting, 33 Revere, 34 Helipad, 38 Epidemic, 39 Stupid, 40 Upon, 41 Faith, 42 Traps, 45 That rings a bell, 52 Heart, 55 Agate, 56 Sofa, 57 Malice, 58 Maintain, 61 Fighter, 62 Agents, 63 Paranoid, 66 Replenish, 68 Skewer, 69 Trains, 73 Stops, 74 Comatose, 76 Clarifying, 81 Stirrup, 82 Kidnap, 83 Earthy, 84 Jazz, 85 Herring, 86 Run to earth, 87 Relayed. DOWN: 1 Slang, 2 Earliest, 3 Yachts, 4 Stern, 5 Acts, 6 Dismiss, 7 Negate, 8 Brain, 10 Tint, 11 Petunia, 12 Admire, 17 Adroitness, 18 Deter, 22 Brighter, 23 Miser, 24 Dissect, 26 Heir, 28 Perturb, 29 Artist, 30 Evades, 31 Barter, 33 Ripen, 35 Irate, 36 Visa, 37 Bowl, 43 Regain, 44 Patch, 46 Hoop, 47 Tear gas, 48 Immune, 49 Gulls, 50 Accepted, 51 Learns, 52 Handicraft, 53 Afar, 54 Tankers, 59 Realm, 60 Free, 64 Onion, 65 Military, 67 Emperor, 68 Steeple, 70 Statue, 71 Sonnet, 72 Archer, 75 Adieu, 77 Lurch, 78 Gazed, 79 Burn, 80 Gear.

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

EQUESTRIAN

ONE OF New Zealand’s leading and experienced Equine Instructors coming to the heart of Dargaville 14th and 15th March—an opportunity not to be missed. (SIMPLY THE BEST). Enquiries & Bookings Phone or text 021 2093 982.

CHURCH NOTICES DARGAVILLE CHURCH OF THE NAZARENE, 4 Grey Street. Church service on every Sunday at 3pm. Bible study/prayer Wednesday from 4.30pm–7pm, call Moses 021 248 8910. Support group: Celebrate Recovery from all addictions. Friday 5.30pm–8pm, call Gary 021 174 8737.

FENCING

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

FIREWOOD FOR SALE

FIREWOOD MIX available. Phone 09 439 5927 or 027 307 8786. GRAZING

COASTAL GRAZING is available long-term or short-term. Phone 09 439 5927 or 027 307 8786.

GRAZING AVAILABLE – 20km south of Te Kopuru. Good quality, short- or long-term. Phone 022 503 7360.

NURSERIES & PLANTS

GOT2GO PLANTS will be closed this Wednesday, 11th March and open by appointment only this week. Sorry for the inconvenience. Phone 09 439 5556 or 027 488 3400.

PERSONAL

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

PET SUPPLIES

PET DOORS — Cat Doors, Dog Doors for Glass or Timber — supplied and installed. Phone 027 275 0918 or 09 439 6458 Kevin Sowter or visit my website: windowanddoors.co.nz — Window & Door Services Ltd

CLASSIFIEDS PHONE 09 439 6933

Closing date for classified advertising for the March 17 2026 edition is Monday, March 16 2026

AUCTIONS

Farm Machinery & Sundry Sale

Friday 20th March 2026, 11am start,

On A/c T&E Beazley

205 Tinopai Rd, RD1, Matakohe

Ex 90 Hitachi Digger, Ford Truck 1420 6X4 Tipper,

• New Holland 5640 FEL Tractor, Ford 4610 FEL Duals Tractor, David Brown 990 FEL Tractor, Suzuki Escudo Jeep,

• CT 125 Motorbike (not going), Sam Spreader,

• Valcom Spreader, C-Dax Trailer Spreader, C-Dax Seeder, Roller, 2,4 metre Howard Rotary Hoe, Hydraulic Mile Plow, 3pt linkage Tractor drill & augers, Spiry Hyd round bale feeder,

• Back forks, UFO mower, 4ton Tip trailer, Trailers (Roof rack), Rotary slasher, Stihl chainsaw 660, Post borers scrubbers augers, Harrows X3, Scratcher, pipe layer, water pumps Wallace Anderson, Edbro truck hoist 3LNZ, Timber 75x225 decking H3, Timber H3 150x50, Timber H3 200x50, Timber H3 100x50,

• Timber beams & assorted timber (flooring, decking) Macrocarpa, Silky Oak etc, Nbr 2 ½ rounds, assorted post & strainers, Battens, 6x 8mtr poles, Roller door, HD Tractor bucket, lathe, drill press, sawbench,

• Tanner Buzzer 6’, welders, concrete mixer, compressors, Pneumatic battle stapler, Paslode framing gun, Peep freeze, ¾ Drive socket set, generator, tools, fasteners, staples, Chains & pulleys etc, EF reels, stds, insulators etc, steel,

Boxes of sundries, Heritage tools & fasteners, garden rotary hoe,

• Book table, furniture, household items, water trough, Alcathen 400mx32mm, pipe fittings, steel gates, concrete blocks, Building materials, 10x 165mm Culverts 6mtr, 65 mm wire netting,

• Calf feeders, 4x Bedford 920 Tyres & Rims, 2x 825/20 New Truck tyres, Kinghitter Series 2 postdriver with side mounted base and sideshift

SITUATIONS VACANT

GARDENER WANTED. General light-to-medium gardening duties on lifestyle block. Five minutes from Dargaville. Four-to-six hours per month. John 027 525 8159.

Junior/Intermediate building staff with good degree of fitness and work ethic. Some work experience is an advantage.

Email CV/Cover letter in confidence to office.nwbuild@gmail.com

DARGAVILLE HIGH SCHOOL

Assistant Caretaker/Grounds Position

We are looking for an energetic, honest and reliable person to help with maintaining our facilities to the highest standard.

Responsibilities include:

Assisting the caretaker or groundsperson in general repairs, maintenance and grounds work.

The position could be full time or part time, hours to be confirmed.

The position would commence as soon as possible.

Closing date for applications is 19th March 2026

For further details contact Logan Pocklington on 021 156 2410

Please send application to: The Principal, Dargaville High School 57 Plunket Street, Dargaville Or email office@darghigh.school.nz

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.

PLYWOOD 7MM Untreated $29, 20+ $26.10 or Pack(75)

$23. Scooters Plywood & Joinery 09 438 6565. REPEAT KL#221071 3-Mar-2026

WINDOW & DOOR Repairs & Glazing, Insect Screens, Security and more — call me today. Phone 027 275 0918 or 09 439 6458. Kevin Sowter or visit my website: windowanddoors.co.nz — Window & Door Services Ltd.

Semi-Retired Builder

PUBLIC NOTICES

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

Marilyn Anne (née McCutcheon)

Passed away 8-3-2025

It has been one long year since you closed your eyes and went to sleep.

My sweetheart Marilyn, I miss you greatly darling. You were a wonderful Wife, Mother, and Grandmother. Sleep peacefully my sweetheart, until that great resurrection morning when we will be reunited with you again. Good night Sweetheart. Love Snow.

Auckland. AGENDA

1. Karakia and mihimihi

2. Apologies

3. Confirmation of Minutes of AGM held 2025

4. Presentation of 2024/2025 Annual Report and FInancial Statements

5. Te Topu Ika o Ngāti Whātua Report

6. Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Whātua Strategic Plan

7 Presentation of 2025/2026 Annual Plan and Budget

8. Confirmation of Appointment of Auditors

9. General Business

10. Karakia Whakamutunga

Printed copies of the documents above will be available at the Annual General Meeting and electronically at: www.ngatiwhatua.iwi.nz/about-us/agm following the hui.

In the event that the AGM cannot be held kanohi ki te kanohi (in-person), it will be held online via Zoom.

Dated at Whangārei, 4 March 2025

Antony Thompson, Chief Operations Officer for Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Whātua