The harbourside community of Tinopai has taken a lead to be involved in a refreshed local government …
Northland civic leaders have expressed a positive attitude towards the central government’s amalgamation …
With a dream of providing free cuts to those in need, Villy Barbershop’s Lome Fleming has not only been living it, but also brightening people’s days …
u by Andy Bryenton
Plans to establish a Dargaville-based tertiary service provider are advancing at pace, with Massey University representatives actively seeking premises for the prospective institution.
“We are looking for buildings for an education hub. We are looking for buildings for a student hall of residence and for student accommodation. We are also looking at training farms,” said Professor Doug Sutton, who returned to Dargaville last Wednesday to discuss options for securing the real estate needed to forward tertiary education plans in the town.
Student accommodation is part of the formula as well as teaching space. It’s
suggested that offering affordable ‘Oxford College-style’ housing, with facilities such as kitchens and commissaries, would greatly support the ability of Northland youth to learn in west Kaipara.
The timeline from securing public approval to seeking premises has been a short one. As stated at April’s initial public meeting on the tertiary education plan, tuition is projected to begin in 2027.
This will encompass what Professor Sutton and his team have already
identified as areas where training could fill skills gaps and boost local primary sector production. However, there are more facets to the educational picture, as revealed this week.
The potential for fees-free budgetary, business management, entrepreneurial and business upskilling courses to be offered locally is also on the table, following the very successful templates of Massey’s business faculty.
continued on page 3 …
p Jocelyn Righton, on behalf of the Te Kōpuru Community Library, has won the Greatest Book Prize of All Time; 16 books shortlisted in the 2026 Ockham New Zealand Book Awards. Jocelyn also asked if Steve Braunias, the contest instigator, would add his book, Polkinghorne: Inside the Trial of the Century, to the collection. Mr Braunias, an acclaimed writer and columnist, will be in Te Kōpuru this week to award the collection in person; the Lifestyler will be there to capture the moment for the next edition.
u by Paul Campbell
The harbourside community of Tinopai has taken a lead to be involved in a refreshed local government system undergoing its most significant structural and operational changes in nearly 40 years.
Central government ultimatums designed to eliminate bureaucratic duplication have a deadline for reorganisation and the Tinopai Resource Management unit has stepped up with a top-level meeting to see where it fits in Northland.
The unit met with Northland Regional Council, Kaipara District Council and Te Uri o Hau to discuss future opportunities for community-led environmental management and catchment-based collaboration within the Kaipara Harbour.
“The hui focussed on the importance of strengthening local relationships at a grassroots level, and exploring how communities, councils, iwi, hapū and environmental groups may work more closely together in the future,” said unit director Mikaera Miru.
“Discussions also touched on the growing role of technology, environmental monitoring, mātauranga Māori, and practical local knowledge in helping communities better understand and care for their waterways, wetlands and coastal environments.”
“The meeting was constructive and informative, with all parties acknowledging the importance of ongoing dialogue and
relationship building as environmental challenges continue to evolve across Northland and the Kaipara region,” said Mr Miru.
“Further discussions between the various organisations and attendees are expected to continue over time. The meet included NRC chair Pita Tipene, NRC Kaipara councillor John Blackwell, as well as operational staff, along with KDC Mayor, Jonathan Larsen, and councillors Denise Rogers and Mike Schmanski with operational staff, and Te Uri O Hau CEO Rhys Manukau and Alyssce Te Huna from Environs Limited.
“This is a huge opportunity for the local community to engage with councils to ensure the future of their environment,”
Mr Miru said. ¢
Local providers of financial training and budgeting advice confirm there is solid demand for such classes, both for households and small businesses.
There has been significant feedback and input from community, rural sector and general business leaders toward the tertiary plan. A meeting of iwi leadership from the district will be hosted on May 19 by councillor Snow Tane, providing a forum to further shape what Massey offers to best fit the needs of Kaipara and Northland.
Additionally, there will be an open public meeting on the progress and potential of tertiary training plans for Dargaville on Wednesday, June 3, at 5pm, at the Seed offices of the
Dargaville Community Development Board, Fosters Arcade, Victoria Street, Dargaville.
This meeting is about transparency and engagement, but also about the potential of business courses as part of a Dargaville curriculum. What kind of skills should be taught, at what level, and how can local companies take advantage while still maintaining workflow?
Professor Sutton also says that it’s a chance to have your say on how the entire tertiary education hub for Dargaville can serve the community best. If you missed out on the first meeting on this topic, this is an opportunity to be heard and get involved as the concept becomes a reality. ¢
u by Andy Bryenton
The new CE of the Kaipara District Council has been announced, with Jazz Singh securing the position and preparing to begin his tenure on June 8.
“I am keen to get started and deliver positive outcomes for the ratepayers and residents of the district,” said Mr Singh.
Mr Singh served as chief of staff in the office of the mayor of Auckland, leading from the front in policy development, central government engagement and strategy. Policy and finance are his areas of expertise, and in his role with the super city he delivered organisational reform and helped establish the Auckland Future Fund.
One of the things I love most about our district is how our communities show up, at ANZAC Day services across the district, through community-led projects like the Maungatūroto Edible Village Project, and in moments of celebration like the opening of Mangawhai Surf Life Saving Club’s refurbished facilities, progressing the replacement of Tinopai’s wharf, or the completion of Raupō Drainage Scheme’s new floodgate at G Canal. These moments matter and connect us across the whole district. I’m looking forward to keeping the connections going later this month when I head along to the Dargaville new residents’ event, welcoming people who have chosen to make Kaipara home. I am looking forward to learning about them and what has brought them here.
That sense of connection feels especially important as conversations about local government reform grow louder. At a Northland Mayoral Forum earlier this year, we agreed that any reform discussion should be shaped ‘by Northland, for Northland’, and taken back to individual councils. A formal report on local government reform will be presented to the 27 May council meeting for a decision on joining a regional working group, and we will be keeping you updated on any outcomes.
Central government’s recent announcements have fast-tracked the
required decision making. The reform approach now proposes two options. There is a voluntary Head Start Pathway with a three-month timeframe for councils wishing to progress regional reorganisation now. The alternative backstop pathway is a compulsory reform due to be implemented after the 2028 local body elections for any councils that have not followed the voluntary pathway.
I understand that the pace of these discussions may feel unsettling for some. I’ve said this before, but it’s important to reiterate that the Northern Action Group’s suggestion of a merger between Kaipara District Council and Northern Rodney is not a councilled proposal and is not something Kaipara District Council is formally considering. Auckland is not included in the government’s reform programme. We remain committed to working with our Northland counterparts on a way forward.
These conversations are ongoing and my focus remains the same. Staying connected as a district, listening to our communities, and making sure any decisions stay grounded in what is best locally – for Kaipara and the people who call it home.
Jonathan
Larsen
Mayor of Kaipara District
He’s also a veteran of water reform, storm damage recovery and waterfront planning, and brings his experience as a solicitor to the table, too. Mr Singh was general legal counsel (acting) at Auckland Council.
“Jazz Singh comes with significant experience across many facets of local government, having worked across policy, procurement, fiscal management and organisational strategy. He knows his way around complex reform,” said Kaipara mayor Jonathan Larsen.
“I think together we will achieve great things for our district, and I am excited to begin working with Mr Singh. We have a busy road ahead of us with multiple
local government reforms happening at pace. Mr Singh will bring a fresh perspective and is the right person to lead our organisation.”
The mayor also spoke highly of the interim CE, Michael Day, who has navigated a tumultuous interim period for all Kiwi councils.
“I want to thank Michael Day for stepping up and leading the organisation until we could get a permanent chief executive appointment in place. We are grateful for his support and leadership during this time,” Mr Larsen said. ¢
u by Andy Bryenton
The classic fashion aesthetic which goes hand in hand with the automobilia and Americana of hot rod and Kustom Kulture has its own major pageant, and this year there’s a Northland contestant taking on the best of New Zealand and Australia.
The Miss Vintage Australasia 2026 pin-up pageant is proudly sponsored by the Rockabilly Shop, and will take place in Christchurch on September 26. From hundreds of enthusiasts who grace stages at classic car shows and retro events in both nations, only 10 finalists have been chosen, and Janelle Bond, better known as Lady Sugarbelle, is one of them.
“I am beyond excited and honoured to have been chosen as one of the top 10 finalists for Miss Vintage Australasia 2026,” says Janelle. “Not only will I get to represent my personality but also Dargaville and the whole of Northland, while doing something I am truly passionate about.”
Lady Sugarbelle is no stranger to these pages, and readers will have often seen her amid our coverage of local car and motorcycle shows. Part of the fun of this kind of competition is the creative nature of its design element, and Janelle curates and crafts custom clothing in themes reflecting the golden era of post-war cool.
For the big event, she’ll take part in three sections, featuring day wear,
summer wear and evening wear. Other contestants also have fun stage personas evoking the 50s and 60s rock ‘n’ roll feeling of the pageant, such as Miss Celestial Star, Lady Rose Demure and Miss Roxy Rotary.
With five international titles up for grabs, the award-winning Lady Sugarbelle is carrying Dargaville, Kaipara and Northland pride as she prepares for the big day in Christchurch. Will the transTasman trophy be the next one in a very full cabinet? Only time, and the panel of judges, will tell. ¢
u by Andy Bryenton
Northland civic leaders have expressed a positive attitude towards the central government’s amalgamation plans, inviting Kaipara to join an elected member steering group, which already includes two out of three Northland mayors and the chair of the Northland Regional Council.
News of a government-mandated threemonth Head Start plan to amalgamate New Zealand’s 72 councils into a smaller number of regional unitary authorities caused political shockwaves in early May.
The Kaipara District Council will consider its involvement with the Far North, Whangārei and the NRC in a steering group designed to smooth the way to amalgamation of all authorities north of Auckland, when they next meet on May 27.
“This really is about shaping change for Northland, by Northland, so being grounded in local knowledge, local priorities, and solutions that genuinely work for all,” says Whangārei mayor Ken Couper.
“If we want to have a for Northland, by Northland solution, then this is our opportunity. That should be enough impetus for us to take it really seriously, rather than wait around and have something imposed on us that we may not like.”
“We already have a track record of working together, so I am confident we can come up with a plan that serves all communities of Te Tai Tokerau,” says Far North mayor Moko Tepania.
“Northland councils have already committed to working together across
district and regional boundaries,” says NRC chair Pita Tipene. “This approach enables us to reduce duplication, strengthen decision-making and ensure regional issues are addressed in a coordinated way.”
This positive outlook is balanced by the fears of some Kaipara locals that the small towns and smaller population of Kaipara district may see its needs poorly represented in a unitary authority numerically weighted toward Northland’s largest city. Kaipara district has approximately 25,000 citizens, while Whangārei district has more than four times that number.
Despite economies of scale under a unitary authority, funds may be constrained by two factors. Firstly, the speculative all-Northland council would have to administer major changes to accommodate the new water infrastructure and RMA replacement frameworks. Consultancy is also coming to an end on prime minister Christopher Luxon’s idea of a capped two to four per cent rates increase threshold.
Whangārei’s rates rises in the past two years have been 17.2 per cent and 10.1 per cent respectively, while Kaipara has maintained rises in the high single digits. The question has arisen; with
limited funds, where would a council with a minority
to spending?
Despite misgivings from mayors of smaller councils in a similar unbalanced position to Kaipara, such as Upper Hutt and Tasman, there is reported enthusiasm for the merger in Dargaville, where the ratepayers and residents
association has come out in support of saying “goodbye to the Kaipara District Council”, which they assert has performed badly on infrastructure.
A decision on joining the steering group is a week away, though the government’s message is clear — amalgamate voluntarily or be compelled to do so. ¢
u by Andy Bryenton
The Northpower Pricing Discount for 2026 is coming just in time for colder temperatures, and this year consumers will share in a $16.8 million sum.
The pricing discount is made possible by the way Northpower is run. The Northpower Electric Power Trust operates the company on behalf of consumers connected to the Northpower network. This year’s $16.8 million total is up $1 million on 2025, and marks the seventh consecutive year in which the discount has grown.
That means that consumers reap the benefits of a profitable power provider, and have done so since 1993. Since that year, Kaipara and Whangārei customers have shared in more than $300 million.
“We’re delighted that Northpower’s ongoing success allows us to return this discount to our consumer owners. We understand how meaningful this support is for households and businesses, particularly in the current economic environment,” says Northpower chair Mark Trigg.
Discounts will be paid to electricity retailers this month and then appear on power statements immediately
after. The majority of customers are set to receive a discount near the cap set for the scheme; $277 plus GST. This will positively affect more than 60,000 connections, representing many more individuals all over the north.
“It’s always rewarding to see the discount going straight back to people in Kaipara and Whangārei. Ultimately, they own the Northpower business, and so this discount provides a direct return from that ownership. We regularly hear from consumers in the community just how much they value it,” said Northpower Trust chair Phil Heatley. ¢
u by Andy Bryenton
Margaret and Eric Smitton needed an international medical rescue flight after a holiday disaster, but now that the Dargaville locals are home, they need community help with a different emergency.
After Margaret tripped and fell at their Samoan resort hotel, their hosts did everything they could to ensure she was well looked after. However, in the remote tropical paradise where they were vacationing for their 60th wedding anniversary, there was no nearby X-ray. When Eric spoke to their insurers, Allianz, the call was made to travel to Apia, and advanced medical amenities.
“We waited for a while before seeing a very nice doctor whose name escapes me,” says Eric. “He ordered X-rays and it became apparent that the left femur was broken just below the ball. His recommendation was that we return to New Zealand as soon as possible.”
That turned out to be very soon indeed, as a special flight was arranged to get the Dargaville pair back home.
“The aircraft arrived complete with a captain, first officer, flight doctor and flight nurse who took over and did all the preparations for the flight. We cannot speak more highly of them, they were brilliant,” says Eric. “We were met by an ambulance at Auckland airport and taken directly to Auckland Hospital for triage and admittance.”
Surgery was very successful, but on returning from this odyssey, there was bad news. Margaret and Eric’s companion cat Henry had escaped from his own holiday accommodation and remains missing. He’s a friendly grey cat that is microchipped, so the Smittons appeal to anyone in the Ruawai area who has seen Henry to give them a call and reunite their family. You can contact Eric on 021 141 9850. ¢
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u by Andy Bryenton
Autumn has brought chilly days and rain, but nature has gone to sleep; the Maungatūroto Edible Village Project is evidence that there’s a season for everything when it comes to food resilience.
Recently, representatives of the Kaipara District Council expressed their admiration for the project, and met with spokesperson Josie Gritten for a tour of what’s been achieved so far.
“Josie is creating an amazing array of permaculture gardens around Maungatūroto with fruit trees and associated plants that will be available to the community to use,” said mayor Larsen.
The mayor, with Ōtamatea councillors Schimanski and Rogers, visited plantings at the Centennial Hall and at Bickerstaffe Road, learning about how permaculture works in a semiurban setting. The delegates then viewed the plantings at the country club where Josie explained about the concept of a syntropic agroforestry food forest; multiple levels of integrated, food-producing plants in co-existence.
“The Edible Village Project is designed to be a model that can be replicated in any other towns that are wanting to get on board,” said Mr Larsen.
Monday mornings are time for the Maungatūroto Edible Village Project’s
grow and grow sessions, where young children and their parents can meet up at the Maungatūroto Country Club site at 9.30 am to share gardening with the youngsters. On the fourth Sunday of each month, (this May, that means this Sunday, May 24), there’s a meet up to plan and plant seasonal additions to the project, and to share ideas. This is held at the Maungatūroto Centennial Hall at 4pm. Coming in winter, the project has arranged a series of informative and fun workshops on crafting and garden self-sufficiency — watch this space for further information. ¢
u by Amy Fifita
With a dream of providing free cuts to those in need, Villy Barbershop’s Lome Fleming has not only been living it, but also brightening people’s days from his Kaiwaka shop.
Having previously set up two barbershops in Ruakākā and Marsden Point, Lome Fleming has returned from an overseas Mormon mission trip to begin shops in Maungatūroto, Mangawhai, Waipu and Kaiwaka. Lome has settled back into Northland, this time south of the Brynderwyns.
“After running my first two shops for about a year and a half, I ended up moving overseas for a Mormon mission trip. Coming back last year in February and experiencing the same thing as when I was in Ruakākā — people were driving from Maungatūroto to Whangārei or Auckland for haircuts,” said Lome.
p Reginald,
and
have given away around $4,000 of free cuts in under two weeks, and hope to give back more to those in the community experiencing difficulties
With four shops running well, Lome has recently been providing cuts for free from his Kaiwaka location for those who need it.
“There is no other community I would rather cut in. The goal is more to eventually be in a position where we can regularly give back through free haircut days, community events, and support for people who genuinely can’t afford haircuts.
“We’ve already given away around $4,000 worth of free haircuts through the Kaiwaka shop so far, which has been really cool to see. I’m passionate about the future, especially helping people and families doing it tough.” Free haircuts are by appointment only at the Kaiwaka Villy Barbers. To support the cause, contact Lome on 020 4184 2705 or villybarbers@gmail. com. ¢
u by Andy Bryenton
The Northland Regional Council has praised the efforts of locals as details of the success of the Glinks Gully dune monitoring programme have seen the beachfront south of Dargaville named ‘one of New Zealand’s most significant coastal systems’.
What began with dune-stabilising spinifex planting by the Glinks Gully Protection Society has developed into a fullyfaceted dune monitoring plan, complete with drone surveys and closelymonitored transects of the biome.
These have turned up species nobody suspected were present. GGPS member Matt Elliot helped discover the presence of the very rare tātahi native skink on the dunes, while just this summer a whole new species of native grass, Zoysia pauciflora, was found to be present. Also down amid the dune life are abundant katipō spider populations, including juveniles and egg-bearing females.
“I am now aware of fauna and flora that I never knew existed — even though I’ve spent a lifetime here. I would highly recommend getting involved in dune care work to anyone and everyone, wherever you are around the country.”
u
by Andy Bryenton
The Northland Regional Council’s shorebird reporting programme asks locals to send in sightings of rare and endangered wildlife.
“These reports include details such as nesting behaviour and habitat conditions, which can inform protection and management decisions,” says NRC Coastcare biosecurity adviser Brooke Gray.
“Our team remains hopeful that the many eyes and ears of our Coastcare community will capture even more data during the 2026–2027 summer breeding season.”
Correspondents sent in evidence of shorebirds from across Kaipara as part of the survey, including the first such reports of fairy tern activity, confirming that the endangered birds are growing in number and seeking places to lay their eggs on local shores.
discover birds nesting in or using areas where they were previously unknown,” says Brooke Gray.
“The dunes, and the native vegetation in them, are essential to the survival of Glinks as they provide an important protective barrier from the sea,” says GGPS spokesperson and local Nicola Puharich.
That invitation goes out to locals, too. The GGPS would like to invite citizens to take part in their schedule of planting days and in their monitoring programme. In the first instance, contact nicolamp@xtra.co.nz, and find out more about how you can help. ¢
More surprising, though, was the discovery of nesting New Zealand dotterel at Pine Beach, the popular tourist locale, which is part of Taharoa Domain. Dotterel is another rare native bird species, and its preference for sandy beaches as nesting sites must have made the Kai Iwi Lakes seem a perfect substitute for nearby Ripirō Beach.
“The Kai Iwi Lakes example demonstrates the value of the reporting forms. When the public reports shorebirds we can
It’s not the first time this pair have picked Pine Beach. The birds were spotted in 2024, but came back last December, this time with a new addition to their family. Kaipara District Council camp staff helped fence off the nest site and alerted holidaymakers to the presence of their avian neighbours on the shore.
All the data collected from keen-eyed birdwatchers goes toward helping to protect endangered species and assist, as in the case of the Kai Iwi dotterels, in helping them thrive. ¢
u by Andy Bryenton
Four one-act plays by local creators took to the stage at the Ōtamatea Repertory Theatre in early May, as part of a
talent and music.
Brooke Chambers, the youngest playwright in the festival, was awarded for best play. Her work, The Piece of Paper, is an exploration of themes of identity, self-determination and conformity. This one-act performance also took home the people’s choice award, voted by the audience.
Judges Dennise Brownlie, Susan Dugdale and Britt Bray had plenty more to consider, with a full programme of locally-written and performed theatre showing the depth of talent in the Kaipara heartland.
Waiting for Margot was written by Janet Connell and skewered the toxicity which can simmer beneath apparently convivial relationships between friends. The Gift was written by Maura Flower, adapted from the 1905 classic by O Henry, the pen name of William Sydney Porter. The play looked into the meaning of giving and the nature of what makes a heartfelt gift.
Janet Connell was awarded best actor for her role in her own play and in The Test, by Peter Flower, a piece blending reality and dreams in the mind of a
student trying to prepare for a big exam. The Test won Peter the prize for best scriptwriting, and roles in both the Test and Waiting for Margot saw Saoirse Hurley-Brown win best young actor. The Test impressed the panel with technical excellence, too, securing the award for best production.
Four one-act plays made for a well-enjoyed night of theatre, with congratulations to the writers, musicians, actors and stage crew, who proved beyond a doubt that Maungatūroto has creativity and the courage to put it on show. ¢
u by Paul Campbell
The Ōtamatea community’s iconic funding source is opening its second round of funding applications next month as Albie’s Den, the new second-hand and donated goods emporium in Maungatūroto continues to grow in stature on Hurndall Street.
Founded by the late Albie Paton, who operated his funding operation from a disused scout den in Bickerstaffe Road, the new operation bearing his name has new modern main road premises. It’s become a popular one-stop shop for a huge selection of goods from simple tools to electronic organs and much more.
It is run by a local trustee committee, and chair Graham Slatter says the new round of funding will open on June 8 and close on the 22nd of the month.
“Individuals and community groups wishing to apply in this funding round should contact Albie’s Den manager Julie Massey on 027 949 448 or email julie@ maungaturotoden.co.nz, to submit their request for a committee decision.”
The June disbursement is the second of four quarterly distributions to support regional community causes and the first tranche, while leaving an administrative reserve, ranged from a local library to the rescue helicopters.
“We have two new containers coming on-stream to store the increasing numbers of goods donated for sale and a man and woman’s shed for repair and restoration,” Graham says.
“That raises hope, too, that we can attract some more volunteers to help us help others. Volunteers are our lifeblood to keep community support flowing, so anyone with a little time to give will be welcomed to drop by and contact one of us on-site.”
The funding sub-committee made grants totalling $31,244.90 in the first funding round. ¢
DARGAVILLE 242 Baylys Coast Road
Solid, Spacious & Perfectly Positioned
This solid brick and tile home has truly stood the test of time, offering generous living spaces that open to a sheltered, private courtyard -perfect for relaxing or entertaining year round. With three spacious bedrooms, a large family bathroom with wet area shower, excellent garaging, motorhome shedding and extra sheds, there’s room for it all. Set on easy care land with paddocks for animals, kids and bikes, town water plus rainwater collection, fertile coastal soils and no flooding. Perfectly positioned midway between Dargaville and Baylys Beach (approx. 7 km), with a school bus at the gate.
E mbrowning@pggwrightson.co.nz
M 027 278 2309
E cindy.younger@pggwrightson.co.nz
TE KOPURU 1000 Redhill
Charming
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DARGAVILLE 28 Plunket Street
Classic Charm, Modern Comfort, Prime Location
Set on an elevated 809m² section, this solid 1940s brick and tile home at 28 Plunket Street, Dargaville blends classic charm with modern comfort. Currently set up as an office, it can easily transform back to a family home. It offers three double bedrooms plus one single, heat pumps throughout, upgraded wiring and newer flooring. The modernised kitchen provides excellent bench space and light, with laundry off the kitchen. Extras include a double carport, near new single garage and a versatile studio with heat pump and deck. Fully fenced and close to schools and town. 4 1 3
ENQUIRIES OVER $599,000
EDITORIAL
by Andy Bryenton
There are some things that bring refreshing honesty to unexpected places. Things like the advert for the Picnic chocolate bar which emphasised how ugly it looks, or the old cough syrup disclaimer that says ‘it tastes awful, but it works’. There’s even the brutal honesty of canned mineral water brand Liquid Death, which explains (in comical heavy-metal tones) that water is the most edgy, dangerous drink of all, as there has never been a tsunami of lemonade.
Advertisers call it ‘insane honesty’, and it works by being comically upfront about little things, to make the bigger things seem legitimate. Potato chips, which are strange shapes but taste delicious, for example.
Then there are things that are simply not what’s on the tin. Assertions which slap a length of linguistic duct tape over the structural flaws in something major. The concept of ‘fun-sized’ chocolate bars smaller than their clearly moreentertaining full-sized counterparts. The promise of ‘four easy payments’, in an era when a single payment feels like that other misnomer, ‘entirely painless dentistry’. ‘Great tasting’ pet food. ‘Tasteful’ commemorative resin plates. We’re asked to have disciple-level faith in devices from late-night infomercials looking like they were designed by a consortium of Dr Seuss and W Heath
Robinson, bearing names like the ‘veggie samurai five million’, and claiming to be both easy to use and utterly indispensable. These will inevitably mangle one or both of your thumbs and never be used again.
Garage sales are full of them, as well as devices of mediaeval torture which say they’ll give you abdominal muscles like a granite cheese grater, in only five minutes a day. For some reason, these always seem to be sold second-hand by folks with only a single ab, of prodigious girth.
Even countries do it. If you find yourself in a ‘people’s democratic republic’, head for the border fast. It’s very likely that it’s not for the people, just for one dictator, and that his idea of democracy is one man, one vote. The man with the vote, of course, is him. Any nation with the word benevolent in its name is not a recommended holiday destination.
We don’t always get what it says on the tin. So, election year being upon us, what about those grand old Kiwi brands — the names of our political parties? Do they reflect, in 2026, things like a fair go for labourers, or putting the nation before foreign interests? Think about it hard in these coming months, for each of them, or we might end up becoming a People’s Democratic Republic, with a little plastic kiwi on top that says ‘100 per cent pure’. ¢
On Wednesday, November 30 1921, the Governor-General Lord Jellicoe declared Trounson Park officially open before an attendance of more than 300, beneath the largest kauri on the site. James Trounson handed over the deeds of more than 900 acres (364.22ha), while his son Vivian, then chair of the Hobson County Council, welcomed the guests to the park. A special train was arranged to convey the group to the park before they travelled by motor car to the pre-arranged site. In a letter to Gordon Coates, James Trounson wrote: “These trees to me are living things and for over 20 years I have looked forward to the time when they shall become the property of the Dominion and that the whole property would be preserved for all time as a national park.”
Image credit: Auckland Libraries Heritage Collections
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u by Andy Bryenton
Dargaville has it all, and there’s no reason to leave the neighbourhood when you
know that all of these are available right here in town?
1. Bridgestone Dargaville brings one of the best known brands in tyres to the main street, and they’ve got rubber for on and off road, no matter what you drive.
2. The Kauri Computer Company doesn’t just repair, build and tailormake computer systems; they also carry a massive range of electronics as our local source for the immense Jaycar catalogue.
3. Why buy when you can hire? For all those major jobs, Northern Wairoa Hire has the tools and equipment to make it a breeze. Hiring means no hassles, and the team has the technology to tackle any task.
4. The longest-running community circus in New Zealand, Kumarani is a Kaipara treasure. Come along and build confidence, have fun and learn new skills with some absolute local legends.
Money stress can happen to anyone, but you don’t have to face it alone.
We offer FREE, confidential, and friendly support for individuals and families in Dargaville and the wider Kaipara area.
5. Godfrey Motors is your one-stop shop for motoring peace of mind. They can repair, service and WOF your vehicle to the highest standard and as an added bonus, they are the folks to talk to about mobility scooters, too.
6. A real gem when it comes to history and amazing local stories, Kaipara Heritage Machinery Club hosts a hilltop full of surprises, worth planning a trip to explore. Sails, tracks, wheels, diesel and steam combined.
7. Is Supahn Thai one of the best Thai restaurants in New Zealand? Locals say yes, but you’ll have to come and work your way through their huge menu of authentic, exotic cuisine to know for sure.
8. New to the main street, The Health Spa is an oasis of calm and serenity, where you can relax and be refreshed with a sauna,
massage or a whole menu of ways to leave the pressures of modern life behind.
9. Kaipara Budgeting Service provides financial know-how to help people navigate the cost of living and save for a better future; they’re a local source of great ideas when it comes to prosperity and saving money.
10. Twinnie Tuesday is Dargaville’s location for fashion, with fresh ideas and seasonal concepts to suit every wardrobe. It’s cosmopolitan style curated by folks who live and breathe couture.
11. Munn’s Flooring Xtra is one of the longest-established family-owned businesses in Kaipara, and in all of New Zealand, too. They’ll floor you with their range of flooring choices, and follow up with installation and service that’s second to none. 11
12. Team Vegetation brings a crew of qualified arborists and some heavyduty chipping and grinding gear to the scene when it’s time to tackle felling, pruning and shelterbelt maintenance. If it’s green and growing, they’re the team for the job. ¢
u by Andy Bryenton
The information is out for the year in rural property, and the numbers tell a story of opportunity.
The Real Estate Institute of New Zealand issued its annual rural market report last week, and though it’s been a mixed 12 months, thanks largely to international factors and geopolitics, news at the farm gate has been positive for many of the subsectors of farming and country living.
That’s translated into what REINZ is calling increased confidence and positivity, expressed through bellwether figures, such as national dairy farm sales, up 38.2 per cent.
“There are still concerns around cost inflation for the rural sector, which remain at the forefront for those in the industry, with tight on-farm operating costs. These pressures continue to weigh on overall sector confidence, prompting businesses across the rural economy to reassess budgets, adapt operating models and look for greater efficiency as they navigate a persistently challenging cost environment, in many sectors,” said REINZ rural spokesperson, Shane O’Brien.
As mentioned earlier, strong Fonterra payouts and a projected continuation
of this trend have seen dairy property action surge. Otago and Southland are areas of major movement, but Northland makes up the final leg of this triumvirate.
“In the 12 months to March 2026, there were more dairy farm sales exceeding $10 million than in any equivalent 12-month period since records began in 1997. This comparison is based on nominal values and has not been adjusted for inflation,” said Mr O’Brien.
“Buyers across New Zealand tend to prioritise farms that deliver consistent performance, with proven production, established infrastructure, and being environmentally compliant while most farming sectors have displayed varied activity this quarter.”
Dairy has proven strong, but the redmeat sector is also making progress, with strong demand for finishing farms defining a trend, especially in the south. Meanwhile, horticulture remained stable, with growth in areas that have access to irrigation, with kiwifruit farms showing strong appeal.
Lifestyle blocks and small farmlets are also in demand, with Kaipara and Waikato offering some choice examples close enough to Auckland to appeal to urban escapees. Sales of this kind of property are reportedly up 16.2 per cent, with an increase in sales recorded everywhere that sunshine and rural views are on offer.
‘Heading into the next quarter, the rural and lifestyle market is expected
to hold steady, with buyers focussed on operational performance,’ concludes the REINZ report.
‘Dairy, finishing and grazing farms are likely to remain the strongest performers, while sectors such as forestry lag due to regulatory constraints. Overall, investment is expected to be selective rather than broad across New Zealand’s rural property market.’ ¢
u by Amy Fifita
Buying your first home is not a one-man
the game.
First off, employing a lawyer, a mortgage broker, an insurer, and a building inspector will provide any buyer with a good footing. All of these people will guide you through the journey of becoming a property owner.
Doing a quick itinerary, it pays to have a look at your finances to see where you can spend less, budget better and so on. Even talking to a financial adviser can help people balance their debt and provide a clearer path to the goal ahead.
They may be able to help with various things, from day-to-day budgeting to helping maximise investments, enabling individuals to be in a great position when buying their first home. With everything from debt to Kiwisaver sorted, people can enlist the help of a mortgage broker.
After meeting the financial milestone, a mortgage broker can point you in the right direction of a bank or lender. This process will not only assess your finances, but also give you a borrowing
have prerequisites for insurance before they will release funds. Having life insurance shows the bankers that you are a responsible debtor, while insuring
the home shows that the asset you are loaning against is safe.
Up next for the play is the property lawyer, someone who will protect the buyer’s interests legally and financially. They can also navigate you through the various types of property ownership.
So, what’s next? Researching the desired property and the neighbourhood it resides in is advisable. A building inspector has knowledge and can identify issues and maintenance needs.
That means, they can do all of the background checks that a buyer might not think of. Structural reports, even having it checked for meth, amongst other topics, can save on money and stress in the long run. This is where the building inspector comes in.
Once the house offer becomes unconditional and everything is approved, the next people to call are the removalists. With the money in the seller’s hand and the fun of unpacking completed, you can enjoy the journey of being a homeowner. ¢
u by Andy Bryenton
There’s a saying that only something that has a purpose can be
by way of sublime design, becoming a pleasure to look at as well as
That philosophy comes to mind when looking closely at the new Volkswagen Amarok ute. It’s got the tough and workready DNA of a machine built for the farm and the job site, but it’s been fettled and sculpted into something more.
The first Amarok came out in 2014, and the brief was to produce a reliable, strong ute that could work hard all day and then deliver its driver home, over any distance, relaxed. For the new model, VW has teamed up with Ford in a cross-platform collaboration, and the machine coming out of the new Amarok factory in South Africa for our local market improves on the winning original formula, with a turbocharged V6 delivering a smooth 600 Newton-metres of torque through a seamless 10-speed transmission.
It’s a masterclass in nailing the design brief. Just as the Golf GTI encapsulates the benchmark for the hatchback, the Amarok aims to be the quintessential luxury ute, and punches centre mass of the target. The attention to detail, driver comfort and smart assists like autonomous cruise control combine to provide a refined, car-like ride, which is a big bonus for those who have to put
in big miles in rural New Zealand. Hours behind this leather-trimmed wheel don’t weigh heavy, they slide smoothly by, to a Harman Kardon surround-sound soundtrack.
Has that luxury and poise come at the expense of rugged, hard-working chops?
Not at all. Slide a full euro pallet in the deck, hook up and tow 3,500kg, let VW’s acclaimed 4Motion all-wheel-drive system handle the slippery and rough stuff with the twist of a dial, and you’ll appreciate the engineering as much as the ride.
The wading depth is deeper, the chassis geometry redefined, and the ground clearance is higher so you can effortlessly go anywhere.
It’s even earned a seal of approval from four-time Bathurst supercars champion Greg Murphy, who knows a thing or two about horsepower. He doesn’t just endorse the Amarok — he’s on his fourth one.
Volkswagen offers the Amarok in three levels of trim, packing in features as standard across the range, which would be costly add-ons for many competitors.
The Style V6 is the entry to the lineup, with the PanAmericana adding blackout alloys, bars and side steps, as well as boosted
infotainment. The Aventura tops the range with extra comforts like a heated steering wheel and tasteful added chrome.
If you are shopping for a ute right now, you owe it to yourself to experience the Amarok. Book a test drive and see for yourself that work and relaxation can balance harmoniously. ¢
Northland councils have acknowledged the government’s announcement giving regions a three‑month window to put forward proposals to simplify and strengthen local government. The Head Start pathway option announced by Minister of Local Government Simon Watts will fast track proposals for the government’s Simplifying Local Government proposal announced in November. It is a voluntary option for councils wishing to progress regional reorganisation now rather than wait for compulsory reforms due to be implemented after the 2028 local body elections.
A formal report on local government reform will go to the 27 May council meeting, where councillors will decide whether to join a regional working group. We will continue to keep you updated. You can read more about the Head Start announcement at dia.govt.nz/simplifying local government
Kaipara District Council’s Rating Information Database (RID) is available for inspection during business hours at KDC and NRC (Whangarei) offices. The RID contains information required by council to set and assess rates on each rating unit within Kaipara District.
Immediate load restrictions have been introduced on the Hakaru Bridge on Kaiwaka–Mangawhai Road following a detailed inspection that found the bridge to be highly critical. The bridge remains open to everyday vehicles such as cars, utes, vans, buses and standard trucks that do not require permits. However, heavy vehicles operating under permits, including High Productivity Motor Vehicles (HPMVs) and overweight loads, are no longer permitted to use the bridge and must detour via Insley Street. A temporary 30 km/h speed limit remains in place.
The condition assessment has accelerated plans to replace the bridge, which is currently programmed for replacement in the 2026/2027 financial year. We’re in discussions with NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi and working toward completing the replacement by the end of 2026.
Contractors will soon begin repairs on a failed culvert on Huarau Road (just west of Ford Road). Local contractors Huband will carry out the work which is due to begin on Monday 25 May and be completed by the end of June. We’ll share updates via the Antenno app when available.
Dogs adopted from us are:
Desexed
Vet checked and vaccinated (parvo virus)
Dewormed and defleaed
Microchipped
Council registered
Diesel is still with us and dreaming of a permanent home. If you’re interested in adopting Diesel, please complete the Expression of Interest – Dog Adoption form on our website or pick one up at our council offices.
A new playground is on the way for Pahi for tamariki and families to enjoy.
Designed to be safer, more accessible and packed with opportunities for imaginative play, the new playground – to be located near the current site, replaces the existing play area and will make room for essential water infrastructure for the public toilets. It has been designed to suit a wide range of ages and reflect the stunning coastal environment in which it sits. Work started this week and is expected to take 3 to 4 weeks to complete. Read more about what’s coming: kaipara.govt.nz/ news
• Audit, Risk & Finance Committee, 10am Thursday 21 May, KDC Conference Room, 1C Molesworth Drive, Mangawhai.
• Council Meeting, 10am Wednesday 27 May, Tangiteroria Community Complex, 23 Pukehuia Road, Tangiteroria and livestreamed on YouTube.
• Remuneration and Development Committee, 10am Tuesday 2 June, KDC Conference Room, 1C Molesworth Drive, Mangawhai.
• Council Briefing, 10am Thursday 4 June, KDC Conference Room, 1C Molesworth Drive, Mangawhai.
• Awards and Grants Committee, 10am Tuesday 16 June, 1C Molesworth Drive, Mangawhai.
• Long Term Plan Briefing, 11am Friday 19 June, 1C Molesworth Drive, Mangawhai.
• Mangawhai Community Park Governance Committee, 10am Monday 22 June, 1C Molesworth Drive, Mangawhai.
• Council Meeting, 10am Tuesday 23 June, 1C Molesworth Drive, Mangawhai and livestreamed on YouTube. Please visit council’s website for the most up to date information or call council on 0800 727 059 and ask to speak to a Governance Advisor.
Dargaville Renaissance Faire is coming soon. The countdown is on for January 2027, and already knights and Vikings, heroes and wizards have said they’re coming to a weekend of mediaeval fun and fantasy on January 22, 23 and 24. The mascot for this big event is Hew G Dragon, and if you colour him in and drop off your finished work to either the Kaipara Lifestyler offices or the Good Life Store in Dargaville, or scan him coloured and email him to comp@rml.nz, you could win a family pass to the event. What colour should Hew be? You decide.
May
Strategic Planning Workshop for Community Organisations — 23rd May. At the end of the workshop you will have created a Strategic Plan for your organisation. Bookings essential, $20 per person. suec@dcdb.nz.
New Residents Welcome Event — Tuesday, 26th May at the Lighthouse Function Centre 10am–noon. New to the area? Come along, meet your community, and start feeling at home. Please RSVP to suec@dcdb.nz for catering purposes.
Pop-Up Museum — 30 & 31 May at the Te Kopuru Community Hall held by the Te Kopuru Community Trust. Start 10am–2pm. Contact Rachel 021 133 7560.
Dargaville Grant Funding Expo — Thursday, 11th June at the Lighthouse Function Centre 10am–noon. Meet with funding organisations that support local community groups, ask questions, discuss options, and connect with their representatives. Please register at suec@dcdb.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).
THE KAIPARA LIFESTYLER IS PUBLISHED WITH PRIDE BY RURAL
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
POINT
WED 20 12:40am (3.4m) 6:54am (0.5m) 1:05pm (3.2m) 7:13pm (0.5m) THU 21 1:32am (3.3m) 7:48am (0.6m) 1:59pm (3.0m) 8:06pm (0.7m) FRI 22 2:27am (3.2m) 8:46am (0.7m) 2:57pm (2.9m) 9:03pm (0.8m) SAT 23 3:26am (3.1m) 9:46am (0.8m) 3:58pm (2.8m) 10:04pm (0.9m) SUN 24 4:28am (3.0m) 10:48am (0.9m) 5:02pm (2.8m) 11:09pm (1.0m)
(2.6m) 6:34am (0.7m) 12:51pm (2.5m) 6:48pm (0.7m)
24 1:20am (2.6m) 7:33am (0.7m) 1:49pm (2.4m) 7:49pm (0.8m) MON 25 2:17am (2.6m) 8:31am (0.8m) 2:48pm (2.4m) 8:52pm (0.9m) TUE 26 3:13am (2.5m) 9:27am (0.8m) 3:48pm (2.3m) 9:51pm (0.9m)
72 One with a sleeping problem (9)
73 Outspoken (5)
74 Hard-wearing (7)
79 Wealthy (8)
80 Offered to help (11)
81 Flavouring plants (5)
82 Water bird (5)
83 Make great profits (4,2,3,5)
84 Whisky plant (5) DOWN
2 Funniness (6)
3 Jottings (5)
5 Travel about (4)
6 From Moscow (7)
7 Words of gratitude (6)
8 Uncivil (4)
9 Army rank (8)
10 Scandinavian country (6)
11 Basic (10)
(7)
(4)
(10)
61 Brought into country (8)
62 Rise (5)
65 Speech of praise (6)
66 Clippers (6)
67 Theatre beam (9)
12 Surprise attack (4)
13 Pangs of conscience (7)
17 Unit of capacity (5)
18 Unit of pressure (10)
22 Newspaper exclusive (5)
23 Plot outline (8)
25 Humdrum (7)
26 Mozart’s country (7)
28 Dragged (6)
29 Have in mind (6)
30 Spouting hot spring (6)
33 African country (5)
35 Dined (5)
36 Bogus (4)
37 Wind blast (4)
42 Of recorded sound (5)
43 With gusto (8)
44 Rubble (6)
45 Used (6-4)
46 Prying (4)
47 Transports (7)
48 Handwriting (6)
49 Afterwards (5)
51 Absent (4)
52 Large wild cat (7)
53 Break the law (6)
58 Enormous (10)
59 Distance down (5)
63 Tubular pasta (8)
64 Scramble (3,2)
65 Tombstone inscription (7)
68 Sugar pill (7)
69 Intersection of two streets (6)
70 Preserve (6)
71 Worldwide (6)
75 Warn (5)
76 At a distant (4)
77 Brusque (4)
78 On this spot (4)
Fill the grid so that every column, every row and every 3x3 box contains the digits 1 to 9.
ACROSS: 1 Placard, 4 Precaution, 9 Steward, 13 Yeti, 14 Clouds, 15 Reaped, 16 Persist, 19 Perfection, 20 Aromatic, 21 Fraud, 24 Gossip, 25 Itches, 27 Waterfall, 32 Catapult, 33 Aflame, 34 Pirates, 38 Possible, 39 Arises, 40 Rule, 41 Strap, 42 Drawn, 45 Clutch at straws, 52 Press, 55 Score, 56 Hewn, 57 Avenge, 58 Received, 61 Fitting, 62 Melted, 63 Toreador, 66 Spectator, 68 Erects, 69 Circus, 73 Sigma, 74 Novelist, 76 Meticulous, 81 Linking, 82 Lustre, 83 Lights, 84 Stun, 85 Pioneer, 86 Meddlesome, 87 Residue. DOWN: 1 Pay up, 2 Asterisk, 3 Dilate, 4 Pluto, 5 Easy, 6 Arrears, 7 Teapot, 8 Opera, 10 Tier, 11 Wastrel, 12 Rescue, 17 Meditation, 18 Dived, 22 Rhetoric, 23 Affix, 24 Grouped, 26 True, 28 Admirer, 29 Gaelic, 30 Closes, 31 Decays, 33 At sea, 35 Alter, 36 Asia, 37 Slow, 43 Recoil, 44 Worst, 46 Leek, 47 Tangelo, 48 Hearts, 49 Tread, 50 Together, 51 Seesaw, 52 Precocious, 53 Envy, 54 Sadness, 59 Snack, 60 Trot, 64 Mayor, 65 Accosted, 67 Pumpkin, 68 Extreme, 70 Bikini, 71 Gifted, 72 Bitter, 75 Elude, 77 Eagle, 78 Sense, 79 Ante, 80 Also.
5x5
Insert the missing letters to complete ten words — five across the grid and five down. More than one solution may be possible.
& SERVICES
CARPENTER/RENOVATOR specialising in General Repairs & Maintenance, and Kitchen Installs. (30yrs senior experience). Contact Mark 027 603 8323 or info@alteredestates.co.nz.
SINGLE? OVER 40? Meet other interesting, intelligent, genuine people just like yourself. Dine out ‘Dinner for Six’. Phone 021 639 552.
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, ALL types of fencing, pool, stockyards, post & rail, boundary plus… call Jeff 027 476 5458.
GOT2GO PLANTS – Shrubs, Trees, Shelter and Hedging. Ready now from $1. Manuka only 50 cents. Got2Go Plants, 55 West Coast Road, Te Kopuru. 10am to 4pm Tuesday to Saturday. Eftpos available. Phone 09 439 5556 or 027 488 3400.
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.
SEPTIC TANK SERVICES
KAIPARA SEPTIC Services – Commercial and Domestic Septic Tank cleaning. Fully compliant with Kaipara and Whangarei Councils. Prompt, Professional service. Phone 027 246 8791.
MAGIC PROPERTY Services Ltd. SEPTIC TANK CLEANING. UNDER NEW OWNERSHIP. DON’T WAIT UNTIL IT’S POO LATE! PH: 021 290 0442.
CARPET CLEANING, repairs, re-stretching, and patching. Flood drying and small carpet laying work and upholstery cleaning. Very fussy and reasonable prices. Phone Darren, Alltrades Carpet Services 0800 425 587 or 027 286 8584. Dargaville & surrounds.
PLYWOOD 7MM Untreated $29, 20+ $26.10 or Pack(75)
$23. Scooters Plywood & Joinery 09 438 6565.
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.
