Applause for international innovators
Dignitaries from New Zealand and India gathered with local business and community leaders in Dargaville …
Firefighters face off
One of the toughest sports to master is based on the real-life skills of active firefighters, and it forms the basis of the Northland Sub-Associations …
The touch of many
Lions clubs from Kaipara and Whangārei rallied together to donate much-needed funds to North Haven Hospice for a portable ultrasound machine …
u by Paul Campell
More than $61,000 has flowed into the coffers of the Northern Rescue Helicopter Annual Appeal from live fundraising breakfasts held simultaneously at Dargaville and other Northland centres.
The events were launched at Dargaville on October 30, and the tally from the liveon-air MoreFM Breakfast promotion in Northland drew an enthusiastic response at each location.
Northern Rescue fundraising manager Jan Hewitt says her team is most grateful for the generosity of Northlanders.
“We couldn’t have reached that total without the ongoing support of Foster’s Home Decorating and Dargaville Lions, Whangārei Rapid Relief Team, Bayleys in the north and the National Street Rod Association for feeding people and helping shake the buckets, and the efforts of the More FM team, who step up to help
save lives and raise vital funds year after year. I want to thank all of the sponsors, donors and community organisations who helped out on the day — it was a fantastic morning of fundraising,” says Jan.
MoreFM hosts praised the community in Dargaville, and elsewhere throughout Northland for “their generosity year after year. It shows how important the service is to the people of Kaipara.”
The 61,000 raised is expected to build up over summer, as the appeal runs until mid-January to help with operational costs of the air ambulance service. In the last financial year it flew over 1,000 flights — 60 to Kaipara, 53 to the Mid North,
124 to Bay of Islands and 388 to the Far North, among them. The costs associated with running a service can be illustrated by a winch being worth $205,000, a single rotor blade $405,000 and a pair of night-vision goggles $27,500 without accounting for fuel and maintenance and professional staff.
Overseen by the Northland Emergency Services Trust, NEST, are two Sikorsky S-76 emergency rescue helicopters crewed by experienced pre-hospital emergency clinicians, who provide medical care and treatment. They also serve as the winch operators on search and rescue operations. ¢
As a trustee I will continue to add value when appointing quality directors to the Northpower Board and to the trust’s role of monitoring the performance of the company and its directors.
I bring a strong knowledge of good governance:
• Northpower Trustee 2019current
• Sport Northland Trustee 2000-2018, 12 years as Deputy Chairman and 4 as Chairman
• Chairman of Whangarei Aquatics Redevelopment Committee, a $10m project.
• Angus NZ Board 2002 -2012
• Angus Pure Director 2004 –2008
• PBBNZ Director 2006-2013, 4 years as Chairman
• Chairman of Sportsville Dargaville, 2013 – 2021
• Te Kopuru School BOT 2002 -2008 (4 years as chairman)
• Chairman Te Kopuru Community Hall building project, opened in 2009.
• A successful Farmer
Supported by Te Atarangi Angus
t Kaihū Valley School successfully revived a beloved community tradition, joining forces to host a combined Ag Day with Aranga School. This was the first time KVS had participated in many years, and they were joined by home-schooled families and the local kōhanga reo. The event featured a vibrant mix of activities and exciting entertainment. KVS is grateful to all those who supported. “Bringing back Ag Day through this collaboration has strengthened the bonds between both our kura and communities,” said KVS tumuaki (principal) Te Paea Adams.
u by Andy Bryenton
Dignitaries from New Zealand and India gathered with local business and community leaders in Dargaville last week to celebrate an auspicious birthday, and a local success story.
The 10th anniversary of the establish ment of Pristine Biologicals was celebrated with a symposium and commemoration at the Lighthouse Function Centre, with luminaries such as the Associate Minister of Agriculture Andrew Hoggard, and chair of the Indian National Dairy Development Board Meneesh Shah, in attendance.
The company is a leader in the production of serums for the manufacture of both veterinary and human medicines, which has helped to save millions of lives.
“This is a very important day for Dargaville and for Kaipara,” said mayorelect Jonathan Larsen, opening the event.
“Thank you for choosing Dargaville as a place to establish your innovative business.”
Lance Warmington of Silver Fern Farms also praised the Pristine team for their vision and the company’s growth.
“In 2015 a seed was planted, and now that seed has grown into a strong kauri tree,” he said.
Meneesh Shah, Dr K Anand Kumar and Dr Vijay Dasari of Pristine Biologicals were applauded for making the concept of a world-class bovine serum plant in Dargaville come to fruition, creating local jobs and forging ties between New Zealand and India. Praise came from minister Andrew Hoggard, who led a contingent of important Ministry for Primary Industry staff to the occasion.
“We want New Zealand to lead, not just in primary production, but in the highvalue levels of the future bioeconomy,” said Mr Hoggard, citing Pristine Biologicals as a prime example of this potential. ¢
u by Andy Bryenton
The Vertex Oil International Rally of Whangārei came to Kaipara last weekend, with the crackle and pop of exhausts and the whine and hiss of turbochargers echoing through the hills.
As well as being a major sporting event to enjoy, and a chance for locals to see some of the fastest off-road cars in the country cruising the streets of Dargaville on the refuelling beat, this was also the final stage of the season, and a pitched battle for the podium saw drivers push their machines hard.
Robbie Stokes, at the wheel of a Skoda Fabia Rally2 Evo, ended the season in style, powering through the 18 challenging stages of the rally to take the top spot. He ended up 1m 15sec ahead of rival driver and 2025 Brian Green Property Group New Zealand Rally champion Ben Hunt, who conceded the event but won overall victory on points across the series.
the day on Sunday. Jack Hawkeswood was another standout, with his new Toyota GR Yaris making its debut and putting him second on the podium.
Jack Stokes brought more glory to the Stokes Motorsport name by wrapping up the championship with a blitzing run in his Ford Fiesta AP4, and it all might have gone even better if it was not for an inopportune puncture late in
Bryn Jones scored the overall twowheel-drive title, while Dave Strong was at the top of the open two-wheel-drive class, and Tim McIver represented Ford historic pride in a classic Escort to win the historic two-wheel-drive section. Deane Buist, also driving one of the iconic small Fords, had already wrapped up a historic championship win by Saturday. ¢
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Walk through towns in our region and you’ll find cafes with loyal followings for their coastal seafood, real fruit ice cream shops with queues out the door on summer days, and local brewers experimenting with small-batch craft beers.
If you’ve poured your heart into developing a menu item that keeps customers coming back, you might be wondering: can you protect it from
u by Natalie Robinson and Keegan Jones, WRMK Lawyers
From handcrafted avocado oil to bespoke pāua fritters, our region is
and
that put Kaipara and Northland on the map.
copycats? The short answer is: not directly. In New Zealand, recipes themselves aren’t protected by copyright. Copyright law protects the written expression of a recipe, such as the text in a cookbook, but not the actual list of ingredients or the method. So, if you create a new flavour of gelato or a legendary burger sauce, you can’t stop another business from working out what’s in it and putting it on their menu.
That said, you’re not powerless. Intellectual property law offers some ways to protect the value of your food or drink creation:
Trademarks: You can trademark a name, logo or slogan that sets your dish apart. For example, you couldn’t trademark flat white, but you might protect a distinctive brand like Dargaville Harvest® for your cafe’s special blend. Once registered, a trademark gives you exclusive rights to use that name in connection with your goods or services.
Trade secrets: Some recipes are kept under wraps through strict confidentiality requirements (for example, through employment contracts or confidentiality agreements). Think of the 11 secret herbs and spices or sauces that never leave the kitchen. This works well for things like marinades or beverages, but less so for a plated meal that can be reverse-engineered.
Branding and presentation: Even if the recipe itself isn’t protectable, the way you brand and market it can be. Distinctive
plating, unique product names and consistent visual presentation can all contribute to making your dish ‘yours’ in the minds of customers.
Consumer law: If another business markets their dish in a way that misleads customers into thinking it’s yours, you may have grounds under the Fair Trading Act to challenge them.
For most cafe and restaurant owners, the best protection is to build a strong brand around the food or drink creation rather than trying to lock down the recipe itself. Protect the name, logo, and marketing collateral, the things you can legally control, and make sure your staff understand the importance of confidentiality if you’re holding onto a trade secret.
In the end, while you can’t stop someone from making a similar pie or cocktail, you can ensure customers know where the original came from. In towns like Dargaville, where word-of-mouth and community reputation are everything, that brand loyalty is often more valuable than the recipe itself. ¢
u by Paul Campbell
Summertime and the fishing is easy is a mantra for many boaties but, as always, the sea is a fickle playground and preparation is paramount when enjoying marine pursuits.
Heading to fishing grounds outside harbours can mean crossing harbour or river bars, whether it’s at the Kaipara or elsewhere, and this can be perilous depending on conditions. Even experienced skippers have found themselves in trouble, and the Kaipara Harbour bar has the unwanted legend of being a vessel graveyard with fatal consequences in the past.
Dargaville, with all boaties and water enthusiasts welcome.
u by Andy Bryenton
One of the toughest sports to master is based on the real-life skills of active firefighters, and it forms the basis of the Northland Sub-Associations Waterways Competition, which was held in Dargaville last week.
The North Kaipara Coastguard will be on hand with a safety seminar as part of the Coastguard’s national Bar Awareness Roadshow, which features over 30 free seminars from the Far North to the deep south of New Zealand to offer essential knowledge and skills for crossing a bar.
The free seminar is being presented by an experienced Coastguard NZ trainer on safe practices around crossing the Kaipara Bar and general boat ownership on Sunday, November 16, at 3pm, at the Northern Wairoa Boating Club,
Members of the crew of Coastguard North Kaipara will be there to chat and answer any local harbour knowledge questions. ‘After our very well-attended seminar, hosted by the Ruawai Boating Club, the Northern Wairoa Boating Club has stepped up to host this year’s update, a great opportunity to gain valuable knowledge and insights to help you navigate the Kaipara with confidence. The cost is free, although CGNK hopes to have some of this year’s CNZ Summer Lottery Tickets and Eftpos there, if you’d like to support them and help them fund their wet crew training.’ ¢
The term waterways in this title does not refer to rivers and streams, but to the heavy lengths of hosepipe which firefighters must be able to deploy with lightning speed. It’s ungainly and hefty stuff, and it comes with tools to pop open fireplugs in the footpath and unleash high-pressure streams of water. Controlling a heavy hose, blasting water at full power, is a feat of strength in itself, let alone trying to aim it with precision.
“It’s a great contest that builds skills as well as some friendly rivalries,” says Jason Campbell, chief fire officer of the Dargaville brigade. “Dargaville and Ruawai have always had a strong presence, and the contest has been going on for more than 50 years.
“Over the decades it waned a bit, but is getting stronger, as we saw recently. The times of these new teams, which contain a lot of recruits, were exceptional. This is one of the fundamentals of firefighting, made fun.”
Firefighting athletes from Dargaville, Ruawai, Kaitāia, Silverdale, Wellsford, Dairy Flat, Ruakākā and Hikurangi battled it out in two and four person contests, in which they had to deploy hoses, charge them up, and then hit targets both near and far.
Teamwork, strength, speed and accuracy saw some of the targets fall in less than a minute. Round two comes in the new year, when the teams face off again, this time in Wellsford. ¢
Thank you to all those who voted in the recent NRC elections - taking part in local democracy. Thank you to all those who voted for me and placed their trust in me to provide leadership at a regional level. I’m committed to serving all of you during a productive
and prosperous triennium. If you have any concerns or queries about regional council matters, I invite you to give me a call or send me a message so that I can make your voice heard. Email john.blackwell@NRC. govt.nz or call me on 027 295 3431.
u by Andy
Bryenton
Ruawai College has honoured the highest achiever among its student body, following a year of academic, artistic and sporting victories.
In a double achievement, rarely seen in New Zealand schools, the 2025 dux for Ruawai College was also the female senior sporting dux, Alyssa Bishop. Alyssa not only secured these two coveted awards, for academic and athletic excellence, but was also called to the stage for several minor awards as well. Proxime Accessit, the prize for the runnerup to academic dux, was won by Regan Mare, who was also the recipient of other awards during the ceremony.
u by Andy Bryenton
The Coates estate at Ruatuna will be open to the public on November 22, commemorating one of the most significant political events, and careers, to shape the fate of Kaipara.
“We’re very excited about opening Ruatuna on this day to celebrate Gordon Coates’ election as prime minister,” says Ruatuna property host Mary Stevens.
Two awards celebrating citizenship and leadership among the student body went to a deserving pair of young people for 2025. The Llewellyn Memorial Trophy is awarded to the student who has done the most to promote the honour and good name of the school, and this year that student was Rangi Raukawa. The title of student of the year, an overall award applauding excellence in the many aspects of education, went to Jahrome Kiro.
At the top of the sporting awards was male senior sports dux Matthew Watkins, who was also honoured for a variety of different codes individually. At the top of year 12 in academic achievement was Konrad Philips, while the year 11 academic top achiever was Amanda Ries.
The Ruawai College team of prefects for 2026 includes Antonio Tong, Matthew Watkins, Maxwell Oud, Jahrome Kiro, Kyle Taylor, Tamara-Lee Hill, Teylan Te Kawa-Tawhai, Tuhoe Nikora. First among equals in the prefect team are deputy head prefects Molly Dawson and Konrad Philips, led by head prefects Sapphire Harris and Zach Sterling. ¢
“It’s an important moment in the history of New Zealand, Northland and the Kaipara in particular, and we plan to celebrate it in style.”
Gordon Coates was a war hero and popular political figure, responsible for, among other things, the first airmail delivery in New Zealand and the opening of Dargaville’s Northern Wairoa River bridge, 100 years ago.
He was the second prime minister of New Zealand to be born and raised here, with his predecessors having almost all come from Britain as immigrants. To celebrate the centennial of his election, the guardians of his ancestral home at Ruatuna have pulled out all the stops.
There will be live music from The North and Ngā Manu, guided tours of the blooming gardens and the historic homestead, local art in honour of Eva and Mary Coates, both keen painters, and guest speakers taking a closer look at the personal history of this significant landmark.
The boyhood home of Gordon Coates will open its gates to people looking for a fun day out on November 22, from 10.30am. It’s a great opportunity to bring the family and pack a picnic to enjoy on the lawn, says Mary. All are warmly welcomed. ¢
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u by Andy
Bryenton
The seaside settlement of Aranga Beach sits right at the north of Kaipara, and it’s a place of extreme natural beauty, beloved by anglers, tourists and locals alike.
Now the Aranga beach access has a new amenities block, with bathrooms to serve the many visitors who arrive during summertime.
Mayor-elect Jonathan Larsen cut the ribbon alongside Wairoa councillor and soonto-be deputy mayor Gordon Lambeth, with local well-wishers, representatives of Te Roroa, civic contractors and the children of Aranga School in attendance.
It was these students who designed the decoration for the ablutions block, and painted it ahead of the grand opening last week.
“I’d like to thank all of those who were involved in this project, from the idea through to the construction and painting,” said Mr Larsen, after a blessing was enacted and a waiata sung, which contained lyrical mention of all the landmark mountains, rivers and forests of west Kaipara.
Ross Olsen from Hoskin Civil, the team who crafted the modern and durable twin-
toilet block, was also there to offer his thanks to the crew who worked to make the ribbon-cutting happen. Students from Aranga School, who travelled to the beach to view the unveiling of their full-wraparound mural handiwork, also received hearty applause and congratulations from the crowd, and from their principal Megan Knott for a job well done.
The new ablutions were provided by the Kaipara District Council’s depreciation reserve. The fund provided $230,000, ensuring upgraded facilities will be available to coastal travellers and guests. ¢
u by Amy Fifita
Lions clubs from Kaipara and Whangārei rallied together to donate much-needed funds to North Haven Hospice for a portable ultrasound machine.
Mangawhai, Dargaville, Paparoa, Waipu, Marsden and Whangārei Mid Western Lions Clubs collaborated to make a difference. Joining together, the clubs raised $17,108 for a portable ultrasound machine.
“The Lions Clubs, with the assistance of the Lloyd Morgan Lions Clubs Trust, donated $17,108 to North Haven Hospice,” said Mangawhai Lions spokesperson Mandy Hebben.
“It enables the purchase of a portable ultrasound for use in people’s homes across Northland, and the installation of hoist tracks in two of the inpatient bedrooms.”
North Haven Hospice offers wraparound services to people facing terminal illness and those with life-limiting conditions in Kaipara and Whangārei. It is partially government-funded.
“It costs $12,000 per day to keep this free service running. We are all delighted to support and assist the amazing work that Hospice does for our communities.
They touch many of our lives when we need their support the most, so it’s great to be able to give back to them.
“Sue Foster and Juanita McGoldrick from the Waipu Lions coordinated this worthwhile campaign, and Clive Hebben was fortunate enough to test drive the new ceiling hoist that Lions helped to fund.”
To find out more or if you would like to join your local Lions Club to help make a difference in our communities, visit lionsclubs.org.nz. The international club, as a whole, wishes to help communities thrive. ¢
u by Andy Bryenton
Today, at 11am, events from 107 years ago will be at the forefront of people’s minds, as Armistice Day is observed across the Commonwealth.
While Anzac Day is the principal day of remembrance for most New Zealanders, and a time to honour the sacrifice and valour of those who served under the Kiwi flag in wartime, Armistice Day is observed in solidarity by many of this country’s RSA clubs, with Dargaville being no exception.
The original armistice was the treaty that ended the first world war, at the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month of the year 1918. New Zealand soldiers had gone to war in 1914 with the hopes of a great patriotic adventure, and of proving the young nation’s loyalty to Britain. In four years, 98,950 Kiwis served in some of the most bloody battles of the war, including Gallipoli and the trenches around the Somme and Passchendaele.
Eighty per cent were volunteers, and 2,227 were part of the first Māori battalion. A further 1,000 came from our Pacific island neighbours. Nearly one in
ten New Zealanders served in the first world war, and 18,058 never returned. Many who did suffered terrible injuries the medical science of 1918 was not able to alleviate, and psychological damage, which was not understood until decades later.
u by Andy Bryenton
Cycling is a great way to enjoy the outdoors, meet new friends and, of course, exercise in a way that’s healthy and engaging.
Those are all great reasons to get on two wheels, but there’s one more organised in Dargaville by an intrepid band of cyclists. Friday Ride-day is a meeting place for the growing e-bike community, who combine pedal power with electricity to cover kilometres and see the sights from the saddle.
“The rides are so much fun,” says participants Julia Stubbs and Joan Schollum. “We come for the exercise, but really enjoy the social side of the group. Friday is the best of the week because of Friday Ride-day”.
Karen Jones helped to organise the group, and has watched it gain popularity, with riders turning up at 9am every Friday for an invigorating cycle trip, followed with a cuppa and lunch.
“The group started with a handful of riders doing eight kilometres, and now the group has more than 20 riders, all looking for longer and longer loops to ride,” says Karen.
“If a new rider joins us we can cut the loop shorter until they have confidence
If you’d like to get involved with Friday Ride-day, you can roll up and join the fun. All are welcome to call Karen on 021 0226 4001 and get involved. Alternatively, if you want to get out there on two wheels this summer, visit Time To in Dargaville and have a chat about your cycle options. With the Kauri Coast Mountain Bike Park team also enthusiastic about a bright future, following IKEA’s forestry investments arm securing the forest it’s situated in, there are all kinds of options for cycling adventure in the west. ¢
At 11am today, members of the Dargaville RSA will place a wreath on their memorial for the soldiers, sailors, pilots, medical staff and other servicepeople who sacrificed so much for the freedom of New Zealand, and those who serve today. ¢ and fitness to ride the full length, which doesn’t seem to take them long to accomplish”
u by Andy Bryenton
As is traditional from this time of year, the Lifestyler caught up with seasonal icon Saint Nicholas, who we reached at his Sleigh Propulsion Laboratory deep under the North Pole.
Santa Claus has confirmed that he’s lodged a flight plan with New Zealand aviation authorities to bring his turbo-charged sleigh into Dargaville airspace this December. On December 6, he will join in as grand marshal of the town’s Christmas parade, and he’s very happy with the plans his local helpers in the Rotary Club have made.
A window dressing competition for Dargaville has invited local retailers to get into the spirit, and there’s a call-out from the Rotarians to support the parade with a financial donation. Santa’s accounts elves assure us that these are tax-deductible, and not just at the North Pole.
“We already have a good number of participating floats and retailers who are dressing their windows for the competition, but we still have space for many more. Register at the DCDB in Fosters’ Arcade or at the library and Good Life store and join in the fun,” says Brian Burnett of the Rotary Club, the parade convenor. If you do join in the parade, you’ll be in great company. Alongside Santa, you’ll
bring festive joy with marching girls, a full Highland pipe band and an array of colourful floats depicting this year’s theme, The Joy of Christmas.
There’s even a colouring competition for youngsters and the chance to join in the parade yourselves with a decorated bicycle or scooter. Get creative and you could win a prize.
“The parade starts at noon, so be ready by 11.30 and let’s make this the best one ever,” says Santa. “Now, where’s that airbrush? I really want some flames painted on this sleigh now that it’s stacked with twin turbos!” ¢
u by Andy Bryenton
Macular degeneration is the most common cause of blindness in New Zealand, and this disease of the eyes affects one in every seven Kiwis more than five decades old.
Caused by the deterioration of the macula, part of the eye, the disease can be managed and science provides the means to save the sightedness of patients. However, as with so many illnesses, early detection is important.
Macular Degeneration New Zealand is the charity, which advocates for that early intervention, and educates people about how to selfdiagnose and check to ensure they are not experiencing the tell-tale signs of MD.
Mary Maitland is a local patient who has benefitted from early detection of MD, and has kept her vision thanks to the help of Whangārei ophthalmologist Dr Brien Kent-Smith.
“Never say no to an injection, there is no pain, just concentrate on the outcome, it’s really worth it,” says Mary. The treatment works; the disease has slowed and Mary’s sight has been saved.
Now Macular Degeneration New Zealand spokesperson and educator Phillppa Pitcher is coming to Northland
for three informative seminars about how you can detect MD early, and access effective treatment. The threat of losing one’s sight is a frightening prospect, but being armed with knowledge and knowing that medical science has effective treatments to offer is very valuable.
Phillippa will visit Dargaville on November 18, with a free seminar at the Methodist Church (you may know this locale as the venue for Grey Power meetings) starting from 10.30 am. Other engagements will be held in Kaitāia on November 20, and Kerikeri on November 21, so if you have friends or relatives in those towns, ask them to visit mdnz.org. nz for more information. ¢
u by Paul Campbell
A new, expanded fundraising second-hand emporium has moved on from being one man’s enduring vision
a
old hall to an ‘Aladdin’s Cave’ of treasures in a newly-refurbished main road location overseen by a community committee and a roster of volunteers.
This is Albie’s Den, a new emporium so named to dedicate and continue the hard work of the recently passed Albie Paton, who set up his original Den in the old Bickerstaffe Road scout hall, some years ago, to raise funds for the welfare of the wider Ōtamatea area.
Albie sadly passed away before his vision of opening new and expanded premises nearer town, but his efforts have been completed by a new incorporated society. At 31 Hurndall Street East, almost opposite GAS Maungatūroto, the new emporium is packed with a huge range of new and second-hand bargains and will open its doors on Saturday, November 15. Fundraising is now the responsibility of a new committee comprising chairman Graham Slatter, vice-chair Grahame Shepherd, secretary/treasurer Sonya Kay and members Rex Roadley, Julie Massey and Ralph Paulger.
Graham says the expanded project will continue its fundraising legacy founded by Albie with a grants subcommittee overseeing a planned approach offering community grants that are to be applied four times a year.
“We will continue the direction of funding towards the health and welfare of the community, and deadlines for application will apply,” said Graham. “If
department where the skills noted on the television show, Repair Shop, will be handled in what Graham has dubbed the People’s Shed.
“We will have an added attraction with the community Rapid Relief Team providing catering at the opening day, so a warm welcome awaits at Albie’s Shed as the project extends and expands.” ¢
an application does not make it first, there is the opportunity to apply in the next round.”
The original Den pretty much relied on personal requests to Albie who made a significant contribution over a wide range of wellbeing. Substantial grants were made. “The Maungaturoto Community Charitable Trust received $200,000 towards the building of the Riverview Rest home’s state-of-the-art Dementia Unit.”
Others to benefit have been the Northern Rescue helicopters, the Northern Wairoa Coastguard, Hospice and myriad
other community organisations and individuals. When the Lifestyler visited Albie’s Den last week, local volunteers and staffer, Julie Massey were busy displaying a massive range of donated artwork copies, all substantially framed, and we noticed some copies of Van Gogh’s famous Sunflowers among them, promising to highlight everything on offer at next Saturday’s opening event. The new Den will also have an inward goods
Albie never stopped working hard for the community & helping people out.
It is with heavy hearts that we remember Albie, whose recent passing leaves a profound void in our community. Albie was not only a cherished friend and neighbour, but a guiding light whose unwavering commitment to charitable work and subsequent donations shaped the very fabric of Riverview Living.
Through his tireless efforts, Albie fostered a spirit of togetherness that is at the heart of our community today. His vision and leadership were instrumental in establishing work that continues to support the most vulnerable members in our community and to celebrate the strengths and diversity of our neighbourhood.
Albie’s legacy will endure in the smiles of those he helped, the bonds he strengthened, and the countless lives he touched. As we mourn his loss, let us also celebrate his remarkable life by carrying forward his example of kindness, generosity, and community spirit.
We wish Albie’s Den every success.
Thank you, Albie, for everything you gave to Riverview Living. You will be deeply missed but never forgotten. Maungaturoto Memorial RSA Inc 115 Hurndall Street, Maungaturoto 0520
Perched in an elevated position with sweeping views of the Kaipara Harbour this Pouto property captures the essence of the classic Kiwi coastal escape It’s one of those rare spots where time slows down, and every day feels like a holiday The two-bedroom home features open-plan living and has been tastefully furnished throughout A fully enclosed sunroom flows off the lounge, complete with bifold doors that open onto the spacious deck—making it a perfect space to enjoy all year round Step outside and discover the ultimate entertainer’s zone: an outdoor room set up as a bar area, partially renovated with cabinetry ready to be installed Whether it's summer BBQs or sunset drinks, this space is ready to become your go-to hangout spot Just down the road is beach access and the local wharf—ideal for fishing boating or soaking up the sun bayleys co nz/
32 62 hectares (more or less STS) in multiple titles this versatile run-off block is currently used alongside the neighbouring dairy farm The land is mostly flat to slightly rolling, with a mixture fencing, and water supplied from the Tangihua Ranges via an easement to a 25,000-litre gravity-feed concrete tank It offers immediate usability for grazing or cropping, with excellent scope for future development or building your forever home Located 37 minutes from Whangarei and 33 minutes from Dargaville the property is close to Tangiteroria Primary with secondary school buses available, and the new community complex offering Pickleball, Yoga, Bowls, Squash, and an exercise room Ideal to continue as a run-off, hold as a land bank, or develop into your forever home, this is a well-serviced, versatile rural property in a highly accessible location bayleys co nz/1021088
This well-established dairy farm spans 245 4603 hectares (more or less, STS) across multiple titles, milking 360 cows once-a-day with split calving for about 129,159kgMS The land offers a mix of contour – quarter flat, quarter plateau, and rolling to steep – ideal for grazing and cropping Productive Kaipara and Waiotira clays support 25 hectares regrassed and 26 hectares in crop rotation Effluent is managed by a four-pond system covering 50 hectares, supported by a travelling irrigator and cannons Infrastructure includes a 32ASHB shed with Allfex drafting gate supporting Sensehub cow collars, a 250-cow feed pad, two herd homes, and good shedding Three homes – five, three and two bedrooms – complete the property Our vendors are now retiring offering a great opportunity to take over this well-run, productive dairy farm bayleys co nz/1021087
Presenting a 206 86 hectare (more or less) dairy farm in four titles just 15km from Dargaville Well set up with scale infrastructure, and quality housing, it offers a sound base with strong infrastructure and scope to lift production Producing an average of 88,937kgMS from 335 cows, the farm features mainly rolling contour with some flats, multiwire electric fencing, and water from a dam Effluent is managed via a weeping wall and three ponds, compliant to 2029 Infrastructure includes a 40 ASHB shed with ice bank rubber matting and solar multiple implement sheds a workshop, 24-bay calf shed, stand-off pad for 400 cows, cattle yards, and palm kernel bin Two homes are includeda renovated four-bedroom main with office and spa, and a three-bedroom, two-storey dwelling This farm provides a solid foundation with everything in place to increase production bayleys co nz/1021080
Like its namesake, Mahuta - meaning Chief - this block stands out and will command attention from buyers with an eye on the future bayleys co nz/1021037
This 14 2718-hectare (more or less) coastal lifestyle block offers a rare opportunity just 10 minutes from Dargaville and minutes from the stunning Ripiro Beach
With fertile Redhill Loam soil, the land is versatile- perfect for building your dream home, land banking for the future, or grazing cattle Practical infrastructure includes a hay shed and an implement shed, while a shareholding in the Mahuta Water Scheme ensures a reliable water supply for stock or irrigation Combining convenience, versatility, and potential, this property is an ideal choice for anyone looking to secure a prime coastal lifestyle block bayleys co nz/1021045
With our vendor ready to move on, this 320 05-hectare (more or less) dairy farm near Ruawai, spread over seventeen titles, offers genuine scale and strong foundations Averaging 224,273kgMS over three seasons from 590 cows plus rearing 500 calves on whole milk for an extra 12–15 000kgMS it’s a well-set-up going concern The farm has 210 hectares of flats and 110 hectares of easy rolling country, with efficient limestone races and reliable water from a dam and two bores across 36 paddocks Effluent is managed via a three-pond system With 140 paddocks, good soils, solid infrastructure including a renovated 40ASHB shed, large feed pad, and three tidy homes, this wellbalanced property sits in a sought-after location just two hours from Auckland bayleys co nz/1050873
Prime Opportunity in the Heart of Dargaville
Located in the heart of Dargaville's CBD, this iconic licensed cafe/restaurant has been a local favourite for over 29 years. Set on a 236sqm site with approximately 160sqm floor area, it features a spacious dining area commercial kitchen, offices and a private garden for alfresco dining. With strong street presence and a rich history dating back to the 1920s, this is a rare opportunity to continue a beloved legacy. Motivated vendor - call now for details.
BEACH 3 Tua Tua Place Modern Coastal Living With Stunning Views
Built in 2016, this light-filled, modern home captures the essence of relaxed coastal living. Designed to follow the sun, it offers open-plan
to troughs in paddocks. Contact Dennis or Ron to arrange a viewing.
DARGAVILLE 3050 Mititai Road, Arapohue
Versatile Grazing Opportunity
Just 15 km from Dargaville and Ruawai, this 81-hectare property offers gentle to rolling contour ideal for dairy grazing or beef finishing. Features include 16 paddocks (36 ha techno fencing), limestone races, a two-bedroom cottage, four bay shed, dam and bore water, plus native bush pockets. This is a well-developed and a productive block with strong infrastructure and versatility—perfect for expanding your farming operation or starting fresh.
u by Andy Bryenton
Tough, easily formed, solid and long-lasting, concrete has been the literal foundation
There’s only ever been one problem. As those with concrete water tanks will tell you, concrete is hard but relatively brittle, lacking the flex to prevent cracking if things move around it. If only, thought materials scientists, concrete could heal itself like human skin, sealing up any cracks and fractures. Surely this kind of thing could only be achieved with
futuristic nanotechnology, of a kind only now being pioneered in labs?
It turns out that the ancient Romans had already invented self-healing concrete, and the jury is out as to whether they did so accidentally or with some kind of purpose. Concrete mixed up by those ancient Italians has stood the test of time suspiciously well, and modern researchers looking at buildings like the Pantheon in Rome have found out a remarkable fact.
By including volcanic ash and quicklime in their concrete, the Roman builders had ‘baked in’ lime casts; brittle nanoparticles, which are activated by water. If a crack forms in concrete laced with lime casts, water gets in and causes recrystallisation, effectively healing the concrete.
Modern scientists have taken this idea and improved on it, with ideas such as Dutch innovation Sensicrete, which uses
bacteria to speed up the process. Bacteria, which excrete limestone particles, are held dormant in the concrete until cracks form, and when water brings them back to life, they get to work and seal the gaps. This can have a big effect on the durability of surfaces. Self-healing concrete was tested to the limits on one of the busiest stretches of road in Europe,
the bus expressway at Schiphol Airport in the Netherlands. There, a product called Basilisk was added to existing concrete, which promoted self-healing. The outcome was lower costs, less maintenance, no downtime or closures for repairs, and an extended lifespan for the road amounting to 15 years.
The best news about this kind of self-healing material is in terms of safety. Buildings that rely on concrete and steel to support their own massive weights are susceptible to microfractures caused by settling and tiny movements in the soil and rock beneath. Self-healing concrete might mean a future in which buildings self-repair, saving money and also improving safety. Experiments with fire-retardant ingredients locked into selfhealing concrete have also been tried, with a view to making a substance that doesn’t only resist water and cracking, but resists fire damage as well. ¢
u by Andy Bryenton
Stihl is one of the biggest brands in outdoor
to its name.
Now, after a prizewinning October, which saw the big orange brand take home accolades for best hedge trimmer, best lawnmower and best pressure washer in the UK, there’s a fresh look and a new home for Stihl in Dargaville — a fully-fledged Stihl Shop.
Stewart Mills and his team have transformed space in the DAE building, creating a bright new space to display the range of outdoor power equipment made by Stihl, and more. That spans the chainsaws that made the company famous, as well as powerful tools to tame gardens and lifestyle blocks, and even mowers, pressure washers and batterypowered equipment.
Stewart says that after-sales service and ongoing maintenance and care for the tools he sells will be a big priority. He’s got the full backing of Stihl to ensure that anything purchased from the new site, on the corner of Normanby Street and Edward Street, comes with peace of mind and the confidence of complete wraparound support. Qualified technicians stand ready to take care of customers’ needs.
The new site sits right next to Hammer Hardware and DAE, and like the popular local hardware store, the new Stihl Shop
will be open seven days a week, providing the ability for locals to tackle all their outdoor chores. A full range of authentic Stihl chains, consumables, lubricants and parts will be on display as well.
As well as Stihl’s leading range, the new Stihl Shop carries Hansa chippers, a renowned brand, which can chop green waste down to size and make short work of twigs and branches. It’s also your
site to visit if you have springtime tasks to square away. Drop in and visit Stewart and the team seven days a week, and take a closer look at the Stihl Shop difference. ¢
source for ride-on mowers and zero-turn mowers, with a big range on display ready to tackle everything from substantial lawns to lifestyle blocks.
Offering convenience, accessibility and the most-trusted name in outdoor power, Dargaville’s new Stihl shop is definitely a
u by Andy Bryenton
We have all heard of nitrous oxide as a race car fuel booster, but only those with hands-on farming knowledge will have heard about this substance as a byproduct of cattle urine.
It’s both a good thing and a bad thing that the liquid output of the nation’s herds creates so-called nitrate patches across pasturelands. It’s a natural process, but those concerned with New Zealand’s carbon footprint point to the fact that nitrous oxide is a greenhouse gas, and that it makes up seven per cent of total global emissions.
At the same time, cattle each generate more nitrogen than the total amount of synthetic nitrogen fertiliser farmers pay to put on pasture. A nitrate patch made by a cow’s ablutions contains the equivalent of up to 1,000kg of nitrogen a hectare.
The problem? It’s concentrated in a small spot. A solution could slash farming costs and benefit the planet.
That’s where a small Canterbury company called Āmua comes in. The government’s AgriZeroNZ initiative has recently granted $1.2 million to this innovative firm, which has developed a lightweight wearable device for cattle that allows nitrogen to be spread evenly across pasture from the source as it were. It’s one of 16 projects, which have received part of $191 million in grants to accelerate research and development for future farming that knocks back emissions.
“This is Kiwi innovation at its best. Smart technology designed on the farm, for the farm, turning waste into a valuable fertiliser and maintaining New Zealand’s
leadership in low-emissions pasture-based farming,” says Finance Minister Nicola Willis.
“A total of $191 million has been committed over its first four years to accelerate development of emissions reduction tools for farmers that support the government’s goal of doubling export value in 10 years.
“Other AgriZeroNZ investments include methane vaccines, inhibitors, probio tics and pastures.
The first commercial tools are expected to become available next year, and up to 11 from wider government investment by 2030.”
The full list of innovations includes a methane inhibitor sourced from daffodil plants, molecular science and a possible vaccine aimed at methane reduction, UV-light-based low-emissions ryegrass, probiotic feeds, cattle reproductive technologies and more.
“Research and development drive productivity and high-value jobs. Our goal is a system that empowers worldclass scientists, universities and research
“Well then whatabout all that noise ina farm las’ nite, chooks cackling, roosta crowin, you Dog, barkin’ a lot, house cow mooin’ an’ moanin’ and evin tha birds were upset and squawking ina shelterbelt trees.”
Gidday readas. Boss didint rilly expect me ter anser him and nor did his gerfren’ Sharlene, ’cos we was havin’ smoko ona woolshed steps, an’ Boss just sed he wasint happy with bein’ disturbed by crackling and flashes and bangs disturbin’ the peace ona farm.
• For excavation work including but not limited to
• Quick attached long reach extension
• Effluent systems cleaning, construction
• Agriculture, horticulture
• Drainage, trenching, v bucket, etc
• Farm, races, clean, metal, grade, construction
• Tip truck n trailer
• Earth work, house sites, drive ways
• Thumb
• Equipped with tilt buckets on both machines
Sharlene nodded wile she pored more cuppatees. “Blimmin’ darn ruddy cracker nite Deah. Guy Forks is all about wasting munny on disturbin’ tha peace just cost some bloke tried ter blow up the pommy govmint way back ina dark ages.”
Boss hada big yawn. “Yeah Deah, so much fer us farm workers tryin’ to hava early night. Ya’d reckin it was a blimmin werld war goin’ on over on that city bloke’s lifestyle block across the road. More munny than sinse, I reckin.”
Sharlene slipped me a yummy pikelit, and said she reckined it cooda been worse. “One thing about it Deah, is it didn’t last as long as it used to. I reckin acterly that with the cost of livin’, peeple must cut back on spendin’ this year. An’ I was ina shops las’ week, an’ there wasint much cracker sales I cood see.”
Boss had thort. “That jus’ mite be a good thing, an’ peeple mite get the message that fireworks are a pain ina rear end and upset the animals, and are a waste of munny going up in smoke.”
Sharlene nodded again and then she said: “Wot about the fireworks ina Scotland tho’? Them ABs looked a bit ofa wurry against the Scots blokes until we got sum fireworks from young McKenzie.
Just shows a Kiwi Scottie named Damien can fire things up ona rugby pitch in Scotland eh?”
Boss pored another cuppatees an’ said: “Two down — a couple ter go. But tell yer wot Deah, Damien’s firewerks aside, I reckin these ABs are a bit of a wurry. Maybe they got upset with three yeller cards in that game, but the answer to that is they gotta be more careful.”
Y’no readas, Sharlene is a reel fan ofa ABs, an’ she tole Boss the team acterly played for 30 minutes with 14 men ona paddick, so they shooda won by more.
But Boss was lookin’ atta papa froma kattilstop atta road gate I fetched, an’ told Sharlene he rekined it’s time fer a big holyday. “Deah, we lookin’ atta big check froma dairy run-off, ’cos Fonterror cashed in ona big sell-off. Whaddaya say we skip campin’ at Poutō this year and maybe go an sit ona beach in Thailand or sumwhere?”
Well readas, Sharlene had thought, an’ give me a pat ona head. “Sounds an idea, Deah,” she said, an’ my blood runned cold. Home alone? Oh no?
But then she said “and I’ll ring Mum, she can babysit Billy.” Love
them werds readas. Mum has a grate way wiv roast pork. Nuthin’ wrong with that sorta cracklin’!
An’ sometimes I kin watch TV wiv Mum ona couch inside. C’mon Christmiss. Fiji? Go fer it Boss. No wurries hear! See ya — Billy ¢
November
Dargaville Museum — 16 November @ Lighthouse Function Centre. FROM BAYLYS TO BROADWAY, 20th Anniversary Kevin Friedrich Concert at 1pm. Adults $30, Children 15 years and under free. Tickets at Dargaville Museum. Ph 09 439 7555.
FREE Coast Guard Seminar — 16 Nov @ 3pm. The Northern Wairoa Boating Club. All boaties and water enthusiasts welcome! No Cost, No Excuse. We look forward to seeing you there!
Macular Degeneration Awareness & Education Seminar — Tuesday 18 November at 10.30am, Dargaville Methodist Church, 8 Awakino Road. Essential First Aid Training — 18 Nov, 8.30am–5pm. Dargaville Museum. $30 for Member Organisations, $45 for Non-Member Organisations. For more info admin@volunteeringnorthland.nz or 0800 865 268. Tangiteroria Burger Night — 21 November @ Tangiteroria Community Complex. Open 6pm. Ruatuna Open Day — 22 November from 10.30am. Free Entry but donations appreciated. Home of Gordon Coates, 231st Prime Minister of NZ, 441 Tinopai Rd, Matakohe Live music, guided tours, heritage and art experts, collection displays.
Inland Revenue Clinic — 25 Nov, Heartland Services, Whanau Focus Building, 61 Victoria St. Bookings Essential. Ph 09 439 7009 or 021 245 3765. Community Night Market & Carboot Sale — Friday 28 November, 4–7pm, Greenways Yard, Edward Street, Dargaville.
Markets
Kaihu Hall Market — 4th Saturday each month 10am–noon. Phone Robin 09 439 4878.
Monthly Market — 1st Saturday of each month, 8am–noon at the Kaipara Community Centre, Hokianga Road (opposite the Town Hall).
Paparoa Farmers’ Market — Every Saturday 9am–12pm. Genuine local produce, vegetables, seafood, olive oils, meats, patisserie, plants and more. Village Green, Paparoa.
Te Kopuru Market — 2nd Saturday of each month, 9am–1pm at Coronation Hall. Stall holders ring Rachel on 021 133 7560.
Clubs/Organisations
57 Squadron (Dargaville) Air Training Corps — Mondays 6pm–8pm at the Dargaville Aero Club. For boys and girls aged 13–18 years. Phone Gordon 021 262 0547.
Alcoholics Anonymous — Dargaville meetings, Lighthouse Church, cnr Parore St and Normanby St, Monday 4.30pm & Anglican Church hall, 58 Hokianga Rd, Thursday 7.30pm. Top of drive, parking available. More help 0800 229 6757.
Alzheimer’s ‘Carer’ Support Group — Contact Maxine on 022 691 6068.
Anger Management Group — Thursdays 6pm–7.30pm 1/12 Kapia Street, Dargaville. Helena 021 564 618 or 09 601 4153.
Badminton — Wednesday Nights. 7pm–9pm, $2 per night. Dargaville High School Gym, Plunket Street. Some racquets available. All welcome 13 years & over, enquiries phone 021 439 157.
Baylys & Beyond Gardeners — 2nd Monday of each month. Garden ramble, shared lunch, trading table phone 021 063 3444.
Blind Low Vision Support Group — Meets 10.30am, last Monday of the month, alternatively at Dargaville and Ruawai. Phone Noelene 09 439 0033 for more info.
Chess Club — All welcome, Wednesdays 6.30pm Dargaville, gold coin donation. Phone Stephen 09 439 8819.
Circus Kumarani All Ages Circus Class — Term 4. Come along and learn some circus, casual or full term. 15 Onslow St, Dargaville, Tuesdays 3.45–4.45pm; and Paparoa Memorial Hall, Thursdays 4–5pm. www. circuskumarani.co.nz/classes.
Citizens Advice Bureau — Dargaville & districts now at Parenga Street (between the Menz Shed and My Accountants).
Dargaville Aero Club — Learn to fly, free of tuition charges, Gyrocopter, Texan, Stork. Contact Peter 022 025 0235 for further info.
Dargaville Bowling Club Tuesday Bowls — Names by 9.30am, start 10am, finish 2.30pm. Contact Ray King 09 439 5509.
Dargaville Club — 55 Victoria Street, open Wednesday and Friday from 5pm. Members and guests welcome. Dargaville Club Jam Nights — every second Friday, 5.30pm start.
Dargaville Community Garden — at Kumarani
Creative Centre, 15 Onslow St. Open day on second Saturday of the month (12th April, 10th May) come along from 10am–1pm for a cuppa, swap crops, seeds and ideas. Email classes@circuskumarani.co.nz.
Dargaville Contact Bridge Club — Tuesdays 12.45pm and Wednesdays 6.45pm at the Kiosk, Memorial Park, Logan St, Dargaville. dargavillebridge@gmail.com or phone Peter 09 439 2437 or 022 405 6439.
Dargaville Darts Club — Every Wednesday, 6pm start, at Dargaville Club, 55 Victoria Street.
Dargaville Firearm & Military Collectors Club — 3rd Friday of every second month at Lions Club Hall, Hokianga Road, at 7.30pm. Phone Alec Melville 027 215 1833.
Dargaville Friendship Club for seniors — 2nd Tuesday of month at 10am at the Kiosk, Memorial Park, Logan Street. Phone Brian or Barbara 09 439 5959.
Dargaville Mainly Music — Interactive music and movement for preschoolers and their carers.
Wednesdays 10am Baptist church, Victoria St, during term time. Contact Rebecca 021 969 626.
Dargaville Man Up — every Monday 6.30pm at Te Arohanui Hall, Victoria St. Phone David 021 0849 3670.
Dargaville Medieval Combat Club — Wednesday each week 6.30–8.30pm, Kaipara Community Centre, Hokianga Road. $15 per lesson. Equipment provided. Contact Kurt 022 622 7809.
Dargaville Menz Shed — Tuesday and Thursday each week from 10am to 3pm and Saturday from 10am to noon. For more info phone Paul 027 459 3098 or Brian 09 439 6175.
Dargaville Museum — Open 7 days per week. Hours 9am–4pm April to October, 9am–5pm October to April. Phone 09 439 7555.
Dargaville Plunket Playgroup — 10am–midday. Held every Thursday, 29 Hokianga Rd at the Dargaville Plunket Rooms. Free service, coffee and tea provided. Check our FB page for further details.
Dargaville Public Library — Get Help from a DigiCoach. Mon–Fri 10am–2pm. 1:1 Support. Friendly local trainers. FREE.
Dargaville Riverside Taha Awa Garden Trust Join them in overseeing the running of the Garden. Contact Sheena 021 439 157 or email dargavilleriversidegarden@gmail.com.
Dargaville Scout Group — For boys and girls aged 5–99 years at 23 Onslow St. All info on door or phone Johnnita 027 296 5889.
Dargaville Tabletop Wargames and RPGs — Games like Dungeons & Dragons, Warhammer or other strategy games. Thursdays 6.30pm, Hokianga Road, upstairs above the cinema.
Dargaville Yoga — Yoga for every Bodhi at the Pono lodge. Tuesday mornings 9.30am. Thursdays evenings 6pm. Mats available, everyone welcomed. Find us on Facebook @stretchyourbodhi. Contact Diane 027 371 5274.
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
Drop in meditation — 5.30–6pm Thursdays at Bring Balance, Kaipara Community Centre (side entrance), 38 Hokianga Rd. Room open from 5pm, all welcome. Koha/Dana. www.bringbalance.co.nz, 021 0231 8008.
Girls’ Brigade — Thursdays 3–5pm at the Lighthouse Church, for girls 5–18 years. Register online at 1st Dargaville Girls Brigade 2025 registrations. Find us on FB & Instagram or phone 021 263 7446.
Hikuwai O Kaipara Waka Ama Club — NW Boating Club, 5pm Mondays and Thursdays from 5pm for Awa training.
Housie — Every third Monday of the month at 1.30pm, Dargaville Bowling Club. Janice Allan 027 355 7434. JP Service — Every Thursday at the Whanau Focus Office, 12–1pm, walk in only. Come and have your documents verified and we also photocopy important documents like Passports, Birth Certificates and Driver Licences free of charge. Call 021 245 3765 or 09 439 7009, 61 Victoria Street, Dargaville.
Kaihu Valley Music Club — 3rd Sunday of the Month at Kaihu Hall on Woods Road. 1pm–4pm. Enquires to John or May 09 439 0827.
Kaipara Bootscooters (Beginner line dancing classes) — Every Monday 5.30pm to 7.30pm and Thursday 10am to noon. First hour is beginner and second hour is higher beginner. Dalmation Hall, Normanby St, Dargaville. Contact Donna 021 729 955.
Kaipara Cycling — Calendar of Rides — Thursday 3.45pm–5.30pm Junior Mountainbike Coaching. Contact Sadie 022 453 4475. Friday Ride-day 10am–noon. Social Ride on road and gravel roads. E-bike and analogue welcome. Phone Karen 021 0226 4001. Riding from Dargaville.
Kaipara Grey Power — third Friday of each month February to November. Contact 09 439 7801 or 09 439 4452.
Kaipara Heritage Machinery Club — Open 7 days. Something to interest both men and women, come and get involved. Phone 021 106 3635 or 027 472 1269.
Lions Club of Ruawai — 3rd Thursday of the month (social) and 1st Thursday of the month (business). Contact Dorothy on 09 439 2557.
Lions Dargaville — 2nd Wednesday of the month in Lions Den, Hokianga Road. Contact John 09 439 5937.
Maungaturoto AA Meeting — Mondays 7pm at the Maungaturoto Community House, 155 Hurndall St, Maungaturoto. Contact Carolyn 021 828 055.
Maungaturoto Gardening Club — 3rd Thursday of every month. In winter Centennial Hall, Maungaturoto. Other months visit gardens in the area. New members welcome. $15 to join — first 3 visits FREE. Please contact Gloria 021 100 8153 for more info.
Northern Wairoa Country Music Club — 1st Sunday of the month at the Scout Hall, 23 Onslow Street 1–4pm. Enquiries to Kathleen 021 077 7697.
Northern Wairoa Genealogy Society — Learn how to trace your family history or understand DNA at Dargaville Museum, 2nd and 4th Sundays of each month, 12.30–2pm and at other times by appointments. Phone Sue 021 608 606.
Northern Wairoa Golf Club — Twilight Golf every Thursday. Tee off 4–6pm.
Northern Wairoa Indoor Bowls Assn — 7pm Mondays at Anglican Church Hall, Tuesdays at Ruawai-Tokatoka Hall, Wednesdays at Dalmatian Hall. Contact Warren Younger 027 478 5102 or evenings 09 439 6155.
NZ 60s Up Movement — Dargaville Social Meetings held at the Lighthouse Function Centre on 1st Tuesday of the month. Contact Margaret Pinny 09 439 4560.
Paparoa Box Fit — $10. Stretching/cardio/boxing. Paparoa Memorial Hall, every Wednesday 6–7pm. Paparoa Dance to Music — $5. Stretching/balance/ resistance bands/Zumba, Paparoa Memorial Hall, every Tuesday 10.30–11.30am.
Paparoa Kids Fun Class — $5. Learning/Music/ Dodge Ball/Limbo, Paparoa Memorial Hall, Every Friday 3–4pm.
Peggy Purls in our Community — Every 3rd Wednesday 10.30am at Dargaville Sewing and Curtain Centre, 59 Normanby St. Ring Charlene 09 439 6120. Petanque — social play. Mondays 9.15 till 11.30, $2, fun exercise, all equipment supplied at Sportsville. Judy 09 439 7920.
Recovery Support Group — Mondays 6.30pm– 9pm. 1/12 Kapia Street, Dargaville. Chrissy 09 601 4153 or 021 564 618.
Rock ’n’ Roll Lessons — Thursdays, 6.30pm–7.30pm at Dalmatian Hall, 20 Normanby St. $2 per person. Text Kirsty 021 0818 7902 for more info.
Rotary Club of Dargaville — Weekly on Wednesdays, 11.30–1pm at the Lions Centre in Hokianga Road. Men and women. Phone Brian 09 439 6175. RSA Women’s Section — Social meeting held at the Clubrooms, 4th Monday of the month. Contact Noeline Wright 027 733 7396.
Ruawai Bowling Club — new members welcome. For info call Alison 027 243 5454.
Ruawai Gardening Club — 3rd Thursday of every month, Feb to Nov at the Ruawai Bowling Club, 10am start. Phone Merele 09 439 2335.
Stepping Out Leisure Marching Team — Tuesday 4pm–5pm at the Dargaville Dalmatian Hall, 20 Normanby St. Contact Sharon 027 439 5634 or 09 439 5634.
Stitches and Crafts — 31 Logan St, Dargaville. 10.30am–4pm, Tuesday and Friday. Contact Edith & Mike 021 439 675.
Strength & Conditioning — Baylys Beach Community Centre, Mondays and Fridays. 9am–10am, $10 per session. Call Tony 022 311 8447.
Tangiteroria Community Complex — Mondays: Pickleball 6pm, Sarah 021 772 822. Tuesdays: Yoga 6pm, Sharon 021 981 135, $15 per session. Wednesdays: Indoor Bowls (fortnightly in summer, weekly in winter) 6pm, Mel 021 772 822; Squash, Donna 021 761 022; Exercise Room, Mel 021 772 822. We ask participants are Complex Members for above activities. For Pickleball and Bowls it’s a gold coin donation.
Te Kopuru Community Library — access through St Peters Hall. Open Wednesday 10am–noon and Sunday 3pm–4pm.
Te Kopuru Sewing & Craft Group — Coronation Hall, Norton Street, Te Kopuru every Saturday from 9am–noon. Gold coin koha for the hall. Contact Grace on 021 0858 2455.
Wednesday Crafts — Every Wednesday 10am. Variety of crafts. The Kiosk at Memorial Park. All welcome. $10 per session. Contact Judy 027 316 3940.
WED 12 4:21 am (2.8m) 10:27 am (0.9m) 4:54 pm (2.9m) 11:14 pm (0.9m) THU 13 5:28 am (2.7m) 11:34 am (1.0m) 6:02 pm (2.8m) FRI 14 12:22 am (1.0m) 6:37 am (2.7m) 12:44 pm (1.0m) 7:07 pm (2.8m) SAT 15 1:24 am (0.9m) 7:41 am (2.7m) 1:48 pm (1.0m) 8:05 pm (2.9m) SUN 16 2:19 am (0.8m) 8:35 am (2.8m) 2:42 pm (0.9m) 8:54 pm (3.0m) MON 17 3:06 am (0.7m) 9:23 am (3.0m) 3:29 pm (0.8m) 9:39 pm (3.0m) TUE 18 3:49 am (0.7m) 10:06 am (3.0m) 4:11 pm (0.7m) 10:19 pm (3.1m) Dargaville Arts Association www.dargavillearts.co.nz
16 5:18 am (2.2m) 11:22 am (0.9m) 5:37 pm (2.3m) 11:50 pm (0.8m) MON 17 6:14 am (2.2m) 12:13 pm (0.8m) 6:26 pm (2.3m) TUE 18 12:38 am (0.7m) 7:04 am (2.3m) 12:59 pm (0.8m) 7:12 pm (2.3m)
79 Citrus fruit (8)
80 Deliberate (11)
81 Teams (5)
82 Midday meal (5)
83 Stigma (4,2,8)
84 Looks for (5)
2 Purloin (6)
3 Grub (5)
5 Consumer (4)
(9)
26 Season (6)
27 Paired (anag) (6)
31 Acts as (5)
38 Spotted wild cat (7) 39 Sword (6) 40 Sour-tasting (6)
62 Knife-sharpening tool (5)
65 Talented (6)
66 Cower (6) 67 Carving (9)
72 Unnamed (9) 73 Piano key wood (5) 74 Concerned (7)
6 Lent a hand (7)
7 Barbs (6)
8 Destiny (4)
9 Inherit (4,4)
10 Nuance (6)
11 Astounding, exceptional (10)
12 Common sense (4)
13 Made (7)
17 Coral reef (5)
18 Go-ahead (10)
22 Wet (5)
23 Good luck charm (8)
25 I comply (anag) (7)
26 African country (7)
28 Wool coat (6)
29 Beach suit (6)
30 Staying out of sight (6)
33 US state (5)
35 Famous (5)
36 Soft cheese (4)
37 Hired car (4)
42 Quick (5)
43 Moral sense (8)
44 Beaten overwhelmingly (6)
45 Black and white (10)
46 Inform (4)
47 In sight (7)
48 Cheap and showy (6)
49 Grossly overweight (5)
51 Bellow (4)
52 Flier (7)
53 Gave the slip (6)
58 Below (10)
59 Stringed instrument (5)
63 Oblique suggestive or disparaging remark (8)
64 Ran for office (5)
65 Soft toffee (7)
68 Frankness (7)
69 Old and weak (6)
70 Recedes (6)
71 Adorn (6)
75 Elevate (5)
76 Shortly (4)
77 Fuse together (4)
78 Bathroom powder (4)
Fill the grid so that every column, every row and every 3x3 box contains the digits 1 to 9.
ACROSS: 1 Abridge, 4 More or less, 9 Stealth, 13 Malt, 14 Chalks, 15 Alpine, 16 Fitting, 19 Technician, 20 Illusion, 21 Angle, 24 Action, 25 Chopin, 27 Samaritan, 32 Serenade, 33 Tavern, 34 Hatchet, 38 Souvenir, 39 Minded, 40 Veto, 41 Curse, 42 Asset, 45 On one’s last legs, 52 Slays, 55 Humus, 56 Sour, 57 Relish, 58 Prisoner, 61 Wheedle, 62 Gannet, 63 Aromatic, 66 Corkscrew, 68 Voiced, 69 Divide, 73 Pivot, 74 Slippery, 76 Thoroughly, 81 Gunshot, 82 Paling, 83 Parade, 84 Fill, 85 Primary, 86 Too far gone, 87 Twinges. DOWN: 1 Admit, 2 Relocate, 3 Ethics, 4 Malta, 5 Rust, 6 Ovation, 7 Lapels, 8 Sings, 10 Trim, 11 Antenna, 12 Tangle, 17 Incoherent, 18 Local, 22 Appetite, 23 Cigar, 24 Amnesia, 26 Hoax, 28 Arrival, 29 Merino, 30 Evades, 31 Jersey, 33 Tidal, 35 Cruel, 36 Sues, 37 Stag, 43 Sought, 44 Exude, 46 Neon, 47 Narrate, 48 Spring, 49 Allot, 50 Tasmania, 51 Serial, 52 Suspicious, 53 Acne, 54 Syringe, 59 Alike, 60 Cove, 64 Scold, 65 Lighting, 67 Opossum, 68 Voyager, 70 Liquor, 71 Relief, 72 Credit, 75 Piano, 77 Horde, 78 Yolks, 79 Door, 80 Up to.
5x5
Insert the missing letters to complete ten words — five across the grid and five down. More than one solution may be possible.
TE KOROWAI O IHU KARAITI, Dargaville Church of the Nazarene, 4 Grey Street. Church service every Sunday at 3pm. Bible study/prayer Wednesday from
SINGLE? OVER 40? Meet other interesting, intelligent, genuine people just like yourself. Dine out ‘Dinner for Six’. Phone 021 639 552.
SECURE YOUR Home — security doors, grills, locks, bolts, stays, latches — supplied and installed. Phone 027 275 0918 or 09 439 6458 — Kevin Sowter or visit my website: www.windowanddoors.co.nz — Window & Door Services Ltd.
Sale 15th November at the Old Arapohue Bush Camp Lodge, 580 Hoyle Road. 9am to 1pm. Potbelly, old furniture, household items, baby stuff and much more. Contact Janet 027 318 6093.
19MM H3.2 T&G Flooring 2700x1200 $135. Scooters Plywood 09 438 6565.
CARPENTER/RENOVATOR specialising in General Repairs & Maintenance, and Kitchen Installs. (30yrs senior experience). Contact Mark 027 603 8323 or info@alteredestates.co.nz.
CARPET CLEANING, repairs, re-stretching, and patching. Flood drying and small carpet laying work and upholstery cleaning. Very fussy and reasonable prices. Phone Darren, Alltrades Carpet Services 0800 425 587 or 027 286 8584. Dargaville & surrounds.
PAINTER PLASTERER can travel. Phone Gary Dixon 021 066 7505.
DARGAVILLE
ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS has 2 AA Meetings Weekly. Monday 4.30pm at the Church, corner Parore and Normanby Streets. Use side entrance. Thursday 7.30pm Anglican Church hall. 58 Hokianga Rd, up driveway. Parking at top. More help Phone 0800 229 6757.
DARGAVILLE HEALING rooms 7pm Tuesdays. No charge & no appointment necessary. Lion of Judah Building, River Road. All Welcome. Check us out on Facebook.
Community Health Trust
AGM and Trust Deed
OTAMATEA KAURI
Monday, 24th November, 2025 at 1pm. The SEED Co-Working Office, Fosters Arcade, 36 Victoria St, Dargaville. Enquiries: 09 439 0464 ALL WELCOME
the boundaries of the old Otamatea County Council area. To be eligible to vote at the AGM, voters must be over 18 years and be registered on the Kaipara District Council Electoral Roll. Nomination forms are available from the Admissions desk at the museum or, email: director@kaurimuseum.com
61RIVERROAD,DARGAVILLE
WelcometoMarrinersHouse,afabulousoldvilla,complete withspaciousdownstairslounge,dining,kitchenandprimary bedroom,plustwocuteatticbedroms. Fencedflatsectionwithlargedoublegarageandroomfora sleepoutgrannyflat.
AUCTION14thNov20251.00pm,110VictoriaSt,Dargaville(UnlessSoldPrior)
KATHYFRAY Mob0274364750 WEBID L136409187
12SECONDAVE,DARGAVILLE$390,000
5448STATEHIGHWAY14,DARGAVILLE$675,000
Three-bedroomhomeon756m²sectionwithopen-planliving, galleykitchen,andseparatetoilet.Singlegarage+carport,plus doublegaragewithlinedgamesroom,kitchenette,shower& toilet.Shadehouseforgardeners.Walktoschools,park,and medicalcentre.Greatbones,realpotential.
LINDAGRIFFITHS Mob0272773615
ADRIANNEASTLEY Mob02040762650
WEBID L25178948
Lookingforspace,privacy,theperfectsliceofrurallife? Discover5448SH14,Dargaville-wherecharmmeets opportunity!4.069haoffertileland-roomforgardens, animals,yourdreamprojects.3-bedroom1920scharacter homefullofpotential,decks,plustownwater&septic. CRAMPEDATHOME?4HAOFFREEDOMAWAITS! ADRIANNEASTLEY Mob02040762650
LINDAGRIFFITHS Mob0272773615
WEBID L34135425
6835STATEHIGHWAY12,DARGAVILLEEnquiresover$1,100,000 NEWLISTING Locatedclosetotownthispropertyfeatures3double bedrooms,openplanliving,12x7mgarageandworkshop, fullyfencedwithagreatwatersupplyplus14solarpanels. Has3cabins,onewithbedroomandlivingspace,akitchenette cabinandaworkfromhome/extrabedroomcabin.
CRAIGCLEMENT Mob021461668
WEBID L37526355
3451MANGAKAHIAROAD,PAKOTAI$320,000
34WAIREREVALLEYROAD,PAPAROA$670,000+GST(ifany)
Sleek2021-builttinyhomeon1012m²(approx.)freeholdsite. 2bedrooms,modernbathroom,solarpower(Hyundaipanels +lithium-ionbattery),gardenshed,openparking,andspaceto expand.Peacefulruralsettingapprox.40-45kmtoDargaville, Whangarei&Kaikohe.Councilconsentforcodeof acceptancerequired.
MICHAEL&LINDAGRIFFITHS 0272773615Mob0272788122
WEBID L24419796
Ifyou´realoverofthesea,peaceandprivacythenthis
toabeachrightontheKaiparaHarbour.Enquiretodayand don´tmissout
NICOLEWILLIAMS Mob0211251576
JILLPOWELL Mob021505712 WEBID L37483729
TuckedawayinPaparoa,you’llfindthisNorthfacing 36.3147HA(approx.90acres)ofgrazinglandandbush,with3 titlesincludinganoldairstrip.Sturdysetofcattleyardsand loadingramp.2damsandacreekforwintergrazingofcattle, orforhorseowners.Solarpoweredfencing.
GARYMORRIS Mob021902087
DEBBIEHOWLETT Mob0212333796
WEBID L34744355
Vendordownsizing.5bedroomarchitecturallydesignedhome on4HA(approx.10acres).Aversatileshedandspacious doublegarage.Potentialforsubdivision(subjecttocouncil approval)onatar-sealedroad.Minutestoshops,schools,and services.
GARYMORRIS 094311016Mob021902087 DEBBIEHOWLETT Mob0212333796 WEBID L25111674
Rareopportunitytoownasliceofhistoryonwhatoncewas thehubofalargesheepandbeeffarm.Thisnew13Hatitle offers4xBdmFarmCottage,1300+sqmfarmbuildings,some newboundaryfencing,grazingoneasycontour,stunning4Ha ofRimuforestandmanyothernativetrees.Greatpotential! CallRhoda.
RHODAMORRISON PH0274800691
WEBID
Seton9.49haofpicturesquelandwithriveraccess,this formerflower-growingpropertyoffersa4+bedroomhome,a 2-bedroomcottage,multipleoutbuildings,andpaddockswith
KARYNHODGSON Mob0297799019 WEBID L26746942
