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Old and young making comeback in Social 7s
A generation of former and new rugby players are being encouraged to put on their boots in the inaugural Tararua Social Sevens competition.
The Thursday, after work round robin competition is running for three weeks from February 19, 2015. The competition is designed to encourage men, women and school leavers to have a go at rugby in a fun and social setting, enjoying time with mates and maybe even a drink or two after the game. Social Sevens consists of teams playing two games each Thursday night at Dannevirke Rugby Park from 6.30pm – 7.30pm, while the rotating substitute system ensures players stay fresh and makes for a better quality of game play.
"This competition is perfect for all adults wanting to have a bit of fun and exercise, it is also suitable for those not able to commit to the regular rugby season," says Tararua Recreation Advisor Natarsha.
Working closely with local rugby clubs, we identified that there was a gap in the market for this sector and after further discussions; we knew a short, sharp competition would bring both old and new players together. "This is a great opportunity for old players to give rugby another go and encouragement for young to stay in the game. Clubs can promote and recruit for the upcoming season", adds Sport Manawatu Community Sport Advisor Wesley Clarke.
The competition is social and to adhere to this rule there will be no scores taken for the games; however, players will be entitled to bragging rights at the after function in the clubrooms.
If you are interested in getting involved in the Tararua Social Sevens register online now click here >>>
For further information:
Natarsha Nikora, Sport Manawatu
Phone: (06) 374 4136 or firstname.lastname@example.com
The Rose Sleuths – really old roses wanted!
By Kay Bazzard
Long ago in remote corners of New Zealand the missionaries and early settlers created gardens, primarily to feed themselves but also to beautify the bush-cleared land where they settled with their families. Among the precious cargoes they brought with them were rose cuttings, which were carefully nursed until they could be slipped into the soil of their new land.
As the European society grew, more plants from 'home' were shipped into the country and from there, cuttings were shared between neighbours and friends to fill the spaces with beautiful flowering plants which reminded them of home.
It is with these intriguing thoughts in mind that members of the local Heritage Rose Society are seeking out the remnants or survivors of any old roses (more than 40 years old), which may still grow in the region or beyond. The Hawkes Bay rose hunters will make expeditions to wherever they are told of a rose with an obscure history but which has been growing there 'forever'.
Georgina and friends are excited that this research could well throw up some very early rose varieties which have fallen out of fashion and are not commonly grown today. And of course, they are also excited about having some great jaunts into the old gardens, marae, beach communities and graveyards of Hawke's Bay.
So where are those old roses now? Have they all been dug up and burned as progress dictated, lost because of housing development and as fashions in garden planting changed? Perhaps there may still be old clumps of some simple old rose in the corner of one of our country homestead gardens, or on a site with a derelict home on it.
If there is, the Heritage Rose group wants to hear about it. "Please ask your readers to contact us on our Facebook page," says Georgina, "and tell us the stories of the old roses growing in and around your garden. We'll make an expedition to visit you to check it out and hopefully, we'll try to identify and propagate from it."
Georgina believes there was a tradition of growing roses on marae, roadsides and in old graveyards and is hopeful these may be likely sources for their research. "At Waimarama we are aware of roses planted by Maori owners over 50 years ago, so the place of roses in Maori gardening is of particular interest and significance for our region largely because many coastal settlements were predominantly Maori," she says.
Beach communities such as Mahia or Waimarama to Porangahau and Akitio, all could be possible locations where the group might find examples of interesting old rose plants. The group will start with the areas with the greatest response or that appeal most to their sense of adventure. These intrepid rose-hunters will go with their packed lunches, shared transport and perhaps their sleeping bags for an overnight trip to seek them out wherever they may be.
They expect to find clusters of the same rose within particular areas where cuttings have been passed from garden to garden, reflecting patterns of sharing in the establishment of domestic flower gardens. Propagation from cuttings was the traditional method of acquiring plants before retail garden centres became the norm 30-40 years ago when the boom in the English-garden style began.
The Hawke's Bay Heritage Rose Society won a Pratt Family Trust Scholarship which will help fund some of its members' travel expenses for this research project.
Contact the Hawke's Bay Rose Hunters on Facebook or Georgina Campbell on phone (06) 8709905 or firstname.lastname@example.com and visits will be arranged to coincide with the flowering season. They also welcome new members to their group.Visit the Facebook page here >>>
Roading company Infracon has been sold out of liquidation for an undisclosed sum to Higgins Group.It was announced today that liquidators for PricewaterhouseCoopers, John Fisk and Tony Pattison, entered into a conditional sale and purchase agreement for the going concern sale of the Infracon business to Higgins Aggregates Limited.Infracon was placed into liquidation in August by its shareholders due to ongoing financial loss.Those shareholders were Tararua District Council and Hawke's Bay District Council.The collapse of the company resulted in 98 staff being made redundant, leaving 112 on interim contracts with the liquidators.Higgins Aggregates is a wholly owned subsidiary of Higgins Group Holdings Limited, a large scale civil engineering company with locations throughout New Zealand.The offer included all the assets of the Infracon business.Pattison could not disclose the amount the business had been purchased for, but said it was the best outcome.Staff should receive part of the money owing to them within the next few weeks, Pattison said.The part-payment amount to creditors was unknown at this stage, Pattison said."If the sale concludes as expected, secured creditors and all preferential claims will be fully paid.''Staff are each entitled to a claim of up to $20,340 for wages, holiday pay and redundancy. Any claim more than that becomes unsecured.The company owes around $3.6 million to unsecured creditors, Pattison said. There was still a pool of redundancy amounts that may exceed the $20,340.''We think once we get this deal finalised and we understand the complete quantum of it a good portion of those unsecured creditors will be paid as well.''The amount and timing of this distribution can only be determined once the sale is finalised, he said.Manawatu Standard
Council hears views on Tararua frackingAnti-fracking campaigners are urging the Horizons Regional Council to consider what is best for the Manawatu environment. Residents concerned about the potential consequences of allowing fracking in the Tararua District packed the council chambers yesterday for a committee meeting. The council was set to discuss a risk-analysis report of allowing fracking in the district. So far, one exploratory well has been dug near Dannevirke. After much discussion, the council decided to delay the drawing up of a report until after councillors had visited Taranaki for further research into the controversial oil-extraction technique. Fracking is a method of oil ex ploration that involves pumping sand, water and chemicals into the ground to fracture deep rock and free up deposits of gas and oil. Councillor Murray Guy questionedthe benefits of a new report. Cr Rachel Keedwell was one of three councillors who voted against the motion to delay the report. "It's really important that this is a fair and useful report," Keedwell said. She also raised concerns over the long-term implications of fracking in the area. An earthquake would happen "eventually", and the disaster could be inflamed by fracking, she said. "I would suggest that we make oil exploration activity a prohibited activity." The council moved that a report was not needed until they had done further research and a visited fracking sites in the Taranaki. Cr John Barrow believed another report would be "a complete waste of time". "Do this thing once and do it properly," Barrow said. Before its own discussion, the council heard from people strongly opposed to fracking in the region. The Clean Earth League spokesman Donald James spoke about its environmental effects. He urged the council to consider more than just economic benefit when considering applications from oil and gas companies. "I doubt you could find much benefit, environmentally." But using the Taranaki as a "measuring stick" was not the best approach, James said. The Tararua farmer was "encouraged" as the councillors listened "seriously" to what the public had to say.. Themeeting was another "little step" in the right direction, he said. Roschana Webby also used Taranaki as an example. "In Taranaki, council chose to act alone," she said. The council decided fracking would be of "little effect" to the district. She urged councillors to consider the communities affected by fracking in Taranaki. Anti-fracking activist Sue Pugmire was frustrated the council was considering fracking. Ad Feedback "Why would you let overseas corporations come to our country and steal our resources?" Tag Oil, a Canadian company, currently has permits for close to 1.5 million acres of the East Coast Basin, which could yield 1.7 billion barrels of oil. Manawatu Standard
Sunday 12th October 2014Ride Out Of The Blue the 22- day cycle ride starts tomorrow Saturday the Ride Out Of The Blue team set out from Bluff on a 22 - day cycle ride to raise awareness of mental health and funds for the Mental Health Foundation.
The Ride Out Of The Blue team of ten riders will start out at 8 am tomorrow on the 2,300 km cycle ride from Bluff, finishing at Cape Regina on November 2.
Their aim is to create awareness around of mental health, depression and suicide.
The team will be stopping in towns, cities and communities along the way.
Ride Out Of The Blue also aims to raise at least $50,000 towards the Mental Foundation Mindfulness in Schools project.
The Mental Health Foundation's Mindfulness in Schools programme aims to prevent the development of childhood mental distress by encouraging positive mental health practices for children at primary school level.
To find out more and ways to help to support Ride Out Of The Blue please go to :
• www.givealittle.co.nz/cause/rootbnz
• www.rideoutoftheblue.org
• www.facebook.com/rideoutoftheblue
Ride Out Of The Blue Route
South Island
Bluff to Invercargill
Invercargill to Gore
Gore to Raes Junction
Raes Junction to Roxburgh
Roxburgh to Alexandra
Alexandra to Cromwell
Cromwell to Tarras
Tarras to Omarama
Omarama to Twizel
Twizel to Lake Tekapo
Lake Tekapo to Fairlie
Fairlie through Geraldine to Rangitata
Rangitata to Ashburton (Highway 1)
Ashburton to Rakaia
Rakaia to Christchurch
Christchurch to Waipara
Waipara to Cheviot
Cheviot to Kaikoura
Kaikoura to Blenheim
Blenheim to Picton
Stay in Picton overnight (Fat Cod Backpackers??)
North Island
Ferry to Wellington
Ferry Queens Wharf to Petone
Petone overnight
Petone to Manor Park
Manor Park to Featherstone
Featherstone to Masterton
Masterton to Eketahuna
Eketahuna to Woodville
Woodville to Dannevirke
Dannevirke to Takapau
Takapau to Waipukurau
Waipukurau to Hastings
Hastings to Napier
Napier to Taupo
Taupo to Rotorua
Rotorua to Morrinsville
Morrinsville to Mangatarata
Mangatarata Nth 3k to H25, left to Waitakaruru
Waitakaruru to Orere
Orere to Clevedon
Clevedon to AKL Waterfront
via Mt Wellington and Mission Bay
Ferry to Birkenhead
Birkenhead to Kaukapakapa
Kaukapakapa to Warkworth
Warkworth to Matakana
Matakana to Whangaripo
Whangaripo to Waipu
Waipu to Whangarei
Whangarei to Kawakawa
Kawakawa to Mangamuka
Mangamuka to Kaitaia
Kaitaia to Cape Reinga
Ride Out Of The Blue 2014
Friday 3rd October 2014Seatbelt safety on the rise in TararuaTararua residents are buckling up in the name of safety according to recent seatbelt surveys by Horizons Regional Council's road safety team.Surveys carried out in Dannevirke and Pahiatua in September found 97 per cent of all those observed were wearing their seatbelts. Horizons road safety coordinator for Tararua Debbie Webster says that's an increase of 6 per cent in Dannevirke and 11 per cent in Pahiatua when compared to seatbelt surveys conducted in the 2012/2013 year."Results from these recent surveys show a significant improvement in the use of seatbelts and it's heartening to see people taking the safety message on-board. "We've been working with Police and other road safety partners over a number of years to raise awareness around the importance of wearing a seatbelt. "Nobody chooses to have a crash and it may not be your fault, but the simple act of buckling up your seatbelt could be the difference between life and death."While the statistics for seatbelt use are pleasing, Ms Webster says the number of drivers using child restraints incorrectly still needs addressing."Despite the results of our surveying, local Plunket data shows more than half of all children travelling in cars are incorrectly restrained. There's really no need for this to be occurring as Plunket hire out seats, offer a range of restraints and booster seats for purchase and assist with any car seats brought to them for checking."I know we all want to keep our little ones safe. Children are smaller with different body shapes and they need a different form of protection that adult seatbelts can't provide. "I encourage parents to ask the question if they're not sure about the requirements or whether they've got it right. We're only too happy to help them out," Ms Webster says.
Thursday 25 September 2014Hard work pays off for Woodville museum society For their World War I themed exhibition, paying tribute to the 400 soldiers who went to fight from Woodville, the Woodville Pioneer Museum Society were announced as the Supreme Award winner at tonight's Trustpower Tararua District Community Awards.
Over 90 people gathered at the Eketahuna Community Centre this evening for the Trustpower Tararua District Community Awards which were presented by Tararua Mayor Roly Ellis and Trustpower Community Relations Manager Graeme Purches. For winning the Supreme Award, the Woodville Pioneer Museum Society received a framed certificate, a trophy and $1,500 prize money. The Woodville Pioneer Museum Society now has the opportunity to represent the district at the 2014 Trustpower National Community Awards, which are being held in the Wellington region in March 2015. In total, Trustpower has given away over $5,000 to various community groups through tonight's Awards. Trustpower Community Relations Representative Jess Somerville says the 13 volunteers behind this museum do a great job of taking visitors on a journey back through time. "This ANZAC Day, they notched it up to another level by putting on a special exhibition, held over 16 days in April, which paid tribute to soldiers who left for World War I from this region. Months of preparation went into collating and mounting photos for display, finding and organising items to show and coordinating the contribution of local schools. They also crafted a board with the names of the 400 soldiers who headed off to fight with 120 of them printed in red for the ones that didn't return. "On top of this they helped share the stories of these local legends by researching, interviewing, collating and narrating material by locals to produce a 45 minute documentary. The impact of this volunteer work for this exhibition with cataloguing exhibits and preserving old fragile items will help to ensure its future. "The finished product went down a treat with those who travelled to see it and attracted an audience of more than 3,000 people, even making Seven Sharp! Not bad for a town of around 1400", says Miss Somerville. Tararua District Mayor Roly Ellis says the volunteers behind the Woodville Pioneer Museum do an incredible job of providing and preserving Woodville's history. "A huge congratulations to the volunteers who spearheaded this special ANZAC exhibition that paid tribute to the hundreds of men, and one woman, who headed to the frontline from Woodville. It helped to share the stories of local legends through a creative, thoughtful and educational exhibition," says Mayor Ellis. Fifty-six entries were received for this year's Trustpower Tararua District Community Awards. Other award recipients at tonight's Trustpower Tararua District Community Awards were: - Heritage and Environment Commendation: Dannevirke Promotion and Development Society Runner-Up: Eastern ManawatÅ« River Hapu Collective also known as Te KÄuru Winner: Pukaha Mount Bruce Wildlife Centre Volunteers - Health and Well Being Commendation: Ruahine Maori Wardens Runner-Up: Lions Club of Dannevirke Joint Winner: Eketahuna Health Centre Committee Joint Winner: Pahiatua Cancer Support Group - Arts and Culture Runner-Up: Pahiatua Repertory Society. Winner: Pahiatua Upstairs Cinema Society - Sport and Leisure Commendation: Bush Netball Club Committee Runner- up: Woodville Association Football Club Winner: Eketahuna Rugby Football Club - Education and Child/Youth Development Runner-Up: Bush Multi Sport Grass Roots Gym Winner: Eketahuna Youth Group - Supreme Winner Woodville Pioneer Museum Society - Youth Spirit Winner: Natasha Bailey from Tararua CollegeVoxy
Thursday 18th September 2014
TeamKey stops in on DannevagasWith two days out from voting day Prime Minister John Key hit the campaign trail with a road trip from Wellington this morning heading to Auckland with lots of stops on the way including Dannevirke this afternoon. Check out Dannevirke NZ Facebook page for more >>>
Thursday 18th September 2014Alliance contract for roading signedA Tararua District Council and Downer roading contract has been signed and job interviews have commenced. Under the new Alliance contract, Downer and council staff will be working together to deliver road corridor and stormwater maintenance and will manage assets including 1175 kilometres sealed and 782km of unsealed roading network, 398 bridges, 9106 road signs, 112km of footpaths, 130 large culverts and 20km of reticulation pipes. Downer is looking at hiring about 30 staff to complete the work. Tararua District Council and Downer signed the contract last week. The roading contract had been held by Infracon, owned by Tararua District Council and Hawke's Bay District Council, but it was placed into liquidation last month, with 98 staff being made redundant. Central Amalgamation Workers Union representative Mark Anderson said they were optimistic that Infracon people would be hired by Downer. "Given those guys have the skills and know the roads pretty well, you'd think those guys would have a pretty good chance. "[Some of the workers made redundant by Infracon] have got jobs at other places but there are still some who haven't. "I have faith that . . . if the guys meet the criteria, they'll get the jobs." Tararua District Council chief executive Blair King said the council had requested that the company attempt to keep the jobs local. King said it was a significant contract as it was different to what the council had done in the past. "It's an alliance . . . meaning both parties have shared risk," King said. The Tararua Alliance has been described by the council "as one team from the two partners". "It's not like a traditional contract relationship where the contractor receives work requests from council engineers. It's an arrangement of people working together as a service provider, to a fixed budget, jointly prioritising and getting the required work done first." The contract is worth about $16 million over five years, Tararua District mayor Roly Ellis has said. The contract starts from October 1, 2014 and will run for up to five years. Manawatu Standard
Tuesday 16th September 2014Celebrate our local sporting talent with Dave RennieWaikato Chiefs coach, Dave Rennie, has been confirmed as the Visique Dannevirke & Pahiatua Optometrists guest speaker for the 2014 Tararua Sportsperson of the Year Awards.Sport Manawatu's CEO, Trevor Shailer, is thrilled with Rennie's Appearance."We're obviously thrilled to have such a high caliber speaker for the awards. His experience and knowledge of not only rugby, but sport, will be a benefit to all those who attend the awards," said Shailer.
Dave Rennie, a former teacher, is the head coach of the Chiefs rugby union team in the Super Rugby competition. His first season as head coach began in the 2012 season in which he led the Chiefs to their first Super Rugby title. Rennie became the first first-year Super Rugby coach to win a Super Rugby title when he guided the Chiefs to a 37-6 win over the Sharks. He coached the Chiefs to their second straight Super Rugby title in the 2013 season, beating the Brumbies by 27-22.Rennie was previously the coach of the Manawatu Turbos in the ITM Cup from 2005 to 2011. Under Rennie, the Turbos were Championship Runner-up in the 2011 ITM Cup. He was also coach of the New Zealand national under-20 rugby union team, under whom the team won three consecutive World titles from 2008 to 2010. In addition to the awards, Rennie will be visiting Dannevirke High School to run a practical coaching session with their rugby teams. "We are so privileged to have someone of Mr Rennies calibre come to our school and we would like to thank Sport Manawatu and Courtenay at Visique Optometrists for making this possible", TIC Mat Ahern. The awards, coordinated by Sport Manawatu, aim to celebrate the achievements of local sports teams, administrators/volunteers, coaches, officials, senior and junior sportspeople in the Tararua district. Tickets are $45 each and are now on sale. Tickets include the awards ceremony, buffet dinner and the opportunity to hear from guest speaker Dave Rennie."Sport Manawatu want to again thank Courtenay LeCheminant for the continued sponsorship from Visique Dannevirke & Pahiatua Optometrists of this year's awards guest speaker. It is great to have Dave at the awards to help celebrate the success of our local sportspeople.""One of the many highlights of my job is being able to host the awards and show recognition to all those that have achieved in their chosen sport," says Shailer. Voting for the Visique Dannevirke and Pahiatua Optometrists Personality of the Year is now open and can only be done online. So show your favourite sportsperson how much you value them and make your vote count by heading to sportmanawatu.org.nz/tspoty.The awards will take place on Friday, October 17 at the Eketahuna Community Centre. Tickets for the 2014 Tararua Sportsperson of the Year Awards can be purchased from Tararua District Council Service Centres in Pahiatua, Dannevirke, Eketahuna and Woodville.
Wednesday 10th August 2014Adobe Has Been Hacked!Adobe has confirmed that hackers infiltrated their network and stole millions of customer emails and encrypted passwords. They have further acknowledged that your password hint, name, encrypted credit card number, card expiration date, and other confidential information may also have been leaked. An analysis of the hack by Paul Ducklin of Sophos states that 150 million users have been affected and that the encryption methods used to protect customer data are extremely weak.Was My Adobe Account Hacked?If you would like to find out if your Adobe account was one of the 150 million that were leaked, you can click here >>>
Friday 29th August 2014Workers consider job optionsDowner tells of opportunities for Infracon staff They sat with their arms crossed as the company that was once their opposition tried to recruit them.Uncertainty was painted on each face. Many in the room had worked for the same company for 10 years and were now faced with the possibility of having to move elsewhere.Anaru Woolley, 22, worked as a labourer for Infracon for five years.He was told on Monday that he no longer had a job. "I don't really know what's going on. All I know is I lost my job and I need to find a new one."Having a year-old daughter makes the uncertainty around work even harder and has "put a strain on things".A Christchurch-based company offering work and perks had caught his eye. "I'll just have to go where the work is. You just have to take what opportunities you can, I suppose."Downer staff spoke of job opportunities, but could not confirm any numbers.After Infracon went into liquidation, some still have jobs, for now. They work day to day, waiting to hear if they will be signed to a liquidator's agreement.Rickie Payne and Lisa King were at the seminar "just in case". They have kept their jobs.King works as a labourer, cleaning the streets and emptying the rubbish bins. "It all has to get done, but for how long I don't know."She drives from Palmerston North to Woodville every day for work.She knows there is a chance she will be told to turn back around.Tararua District Mayor Roly Ellis said the parks and reserves work would either be put up for tender or brought in-house.He could not give a time frame.Payne, who works as a mechanic for the company, said the hardest part about the whole thing was the sudden absence of his mates. "You miss a lot of the staff that aren't there."It is nothing new to him. Five companies Payne has worked for have gone under. All you can do is move on, he says. But this one has been particularly tough."It's a bit harder now because I'm 56. I was a lot younger then. It sort of affects your heart . . . how you feel."It makes the day longer, harder to get motivated, to get started."He has always managed to find work and isn't opposed to moving.Move on and hope for the best, he says."Nothing else you can do." Manawatu Standard
Thursday 21st August 2014200 jobs at risk after roading firm's liquidationCouncil-owned roading company in Tararua and Central Hawke's Bay, Infracon, is to go into liquidation, putting the future of more than 200 jobs up in the air.
The company's board today recommended a liquidator be appointed.
Infracon is one-third owned by a Central Hawke's Bay District Council company, with Tararua District Council owning two-thirds. Central Hawke's Bay Mayor Peter Butler said the councils were "saddened by the recommendation received from the directors of Infracon Ltd that the shareholders should place the company into liquidation". "This creates real worry for Infracon staff and their families," Butler said. "At least 210 employees who will be affected from Infracon branches in Hastings, Waipukurau, Dannevirke, Woodville and Palmerston North were advised today of the impending liquidation of the company. They now have uncertain futures while the liquidation proceeds." Interim Infracon board chairman Tararua Mayor Roly Ellis said a combination of factors had led to today's recommendation to shareholders. "Infracon has had losses for the previous three years and the cashflow position has meant that the company cannot continue to trade as it has been," Ellis said. Advice to the shareholders from the interim Infracon board indicated that the long-term prospects for Infracon remained extremely difficult and forecasts indicated losses continuing for the next two years, he said. After receiving a letter from its bank, withdrawing financial support from Infracon, further negotiations by the interim board and the bank had been unable to resolve the situation. The interim board was in the difficult position of having to decide to make the recommendation to the shareholders to bring in the liquidator after considering all practical options. "In the last two months the interim board has worked closely with the current management on restructuring the company. However, the situation could not be resolved and the bank would not maintain support," he said. The two councils would work closely with the liquidator and those staff affected to try to save jobs. Mayors Ellis and Butler said both councils would do everything so that essential services were maintained. The Dominion Post
Wednesday 6th August 2014Dannevirke Commermorates World War 1.More than 200 people along with Dannevirke community groups, schools and services gathered at the Cenotaph in Dannevirke yesterday to commermorate the start of World War 1.and to remember those that had fought and those who had fallen.
Placed on the steps of the cenotaph a cross, written on it "Unknown Warrior" Dannevirke lost 12 unknown soldiers to the muddy waterlogged battlefields and out of respect for these men this cross was placed in the field of remembrance by Dannevirke World War II veteran Ivan (Bonnie) Bodley and Lieutenant Richard Short.
Tararua Mayor and RSA Presient Roly Ellis welcomed everyone with a blessing from Rev. Greg Motu and Field of Remembrance Representative Ian MacKenzie saying a few words to the large crowd.It was a brillient day RSA member Ernie Walker said, good weather, good to see such a large crowd of people especially on a week day, I would also like to thank the Dannevirke High School for all the research they did and to our community. " Lest We Forget"To view more photos click here >>> Dannevirke NZ Facebook page.Dannevirke.net.nz
Thurday 31st July 2014Declaration of WWI was birth of nationThe 4th of August 2014 marks the 100th anniversary of the day Britain entered one of the costliest conflicts in history – the First World War – with fighting continuing until the 11th of November 1918, Armistice Day. RSA National President, Don McIver, says that 100 years ago few New Zealanders could have imagined the magnitude of the trauma to come, or the lasting impact it would have on our nation. "103,000 New Zealand men and women served overseas during WWI. Many who volunteered when the war was first declared, believed they were about to embark on a great adventure and told their loved ones they'd be home by Christmas," Mr McIver says. "Four years later, by the close of the war, more than 18,000 New Zealanders had fallen and we had lost 5% of our men of military age. Many of those who returned had trouble reintegrating back into society after the horrors of war. The price of international peace and security was massive for a small and pioneering country such as we were then." Britain's declaration of war marks not only the beginning of New Zealand's involvement in WWI as part of the British Empire, but also the birth of New Zealand as a nation.
"Our national identity is built upon our military heritage. For the first time in our history we travelled en masse through foreign lands, interacting with men and women of different nations under the immense pressure of war. We were tested and we discovered the bonds that make us unique. New Zealand gained a sense of self," says Mr McIver. "Today the RSA champions the values that held us together during war and built our society after. Compassion, comradeship, courage and commitment are the Anzac values that we as Kiwis continue to identify with." RSAs across the country are working with their communities on a wide range of local events and services to commemorate the outbreak of WWI, from re-enactments of troops leaving for the war in Wairarapa and Nelson, to an exhibition of over 5,000 memorabilia items donated by Rangiora RSA to their local museum. Mr McIver believes it's fitting that people draw together to remember their local stories of bravery and sacrifice in the ways which are most meaningful to them. "The RSA feels honoured to help communities and families pay tribute to those that put their lives at risk safeguarding and protecting our freedom." In the first national service of the WWI centenary period, Mr McIver will recite The Ode at a ceremony held on Parliament Grounds, where the announcement of the declaration of war was made to a crowd of over 10,000 New Zealanders in 1914. "The simple words of The Ode continue to stir emotions and reinforce to all that the sacrifices our men and women made will not be forgotten. We will remember them." Dannevirke RSA will be holding a WW1 Field of Rememberance Ceremony on Tuesday 5th August at the Dannevirke Cenotaph (Domain) High Street at 1:00pm. Hosted by Dannevirke Community Board with Guest Speaker Iain MacKenzie (Honoraru Consul for Belgium and President of the Passchendaele Society)RSA members would like you all to come along and be part of this occasion.
Sunday 27th July 2014DHS Girls take on Feilding HighDannevirke Girls 1st XV rugby team played host to one of the regions best rugby team, Feilding High School Girls 1st XV in a friendly game at Dannevirke High School on Sunday.Dannevike plays in the Manawatu 10 aside school competition and when the opportunity came up to play a full 15 aside game the girls grab the chance. From ten to fifteen players on the field this was a big challenge and was a great team building exercise for the girls. Feilding High girls' rugby team is one of the best in the country, a very strong team, having had a great couple of years winning the national competition in 2012 and 2013.
Feilding stated very strong dominating over Dannevirke, 20 minutes into the game injury claimed one of Dannevirke's players while waiting for medical assistance the game was moved to the bottom field. In the second half Dannevirke made a good come back with more ball in hand, good work by the front row giving them more territory but with only 15 left on the clock injury struck again to a Fielding player. With both injuries being neck related no one was taking any chances and medical assist was called again, Dannevirke Volunteer Fire Brigade also assisted while waiting on a St John Ambulance to arrive. Feilding Girls taking the victory, take a look at the rugby action here >>> on Dannevirke NZ Facebook page.www.dannevirke.net.nz
Monday 14th July 2014
Local athlete encourages district to give recognition to sports heroesIt's time to celebrate local sporting achievements over the past year with the 15th annual Tararua Sportsperson of the Year Award nominations now open.
Sport Manawatu CEO, Trevor Shailer, is passionate about the awards purpose. "Recognising those who have excelled, those who have preserved, those who have turned up every Saturday, and those who have made a good team great, is of the uttermost importance to us here at Sport Manawatu," said Shailer."The people who often call for the least amount of praise, are often the very same people who deserve it the most," said Shailer.
Ashleigh Ahipene, winner of the 2013 Infracon Tararua Sportsperson of the Year Award, is encouraging everyone in the community to put forward nominations.
"As a nominee and winner of the Tararua Sportsperson of the Year Awards, in both the junior and senior categories, I believe it is important to nominate our local sportspeople. The awards have helped out with sponsorship and recognition of me and my sport, Muay Thai Kickboxing," say Miss Ahipene.
"The awards are a great way to celebrate the achievement and participation of junior and senior sportspeople both individual and team. Through nomination, recognition is given to those behind the scenes, whom without sport would not happen," adds Miss Ahipene.There are six categories available for nominations: Sportsperson of the Year, Junior Sportsperson of the Year, Team of the Year, Coach of the Year, Official of the Year and Administrator/Volunteer of the Year. All individual nominees are also eligible for the People's Personality of the year award, which is decided by public vote.
"Online nominations are the easiest and fastest way to show recognition to your nominee and I encourage your to make you nomination today. Alternatively hardcopies of the forms will be available from all Tararua District Council offices and Bush Multisport Park from Monday, July 14, 2014", says Shailer.
This year's awards are being held at the Eketahuna Community Hall on Friday October 17. Nominations can be made online at sportmanawatu.org.nz/Tspoty, and close September 15, 2014.Natarsha Nikora, Tararua Recreation AdvisorSport Manawatu
Wednesday 18th June 2014Dannevirke Postie Store to close.Dannevirke will be one of 12 stores to close, with several job loses.Sixty-four Postie Plus employees are set to lose their jobs as administrators for the troubled clothing chain close 12 of the company's 82 stores.
Postie Plus went into voluntary administration on June 3.Company management had identified a number of stores that were no longer viable before they were appointed, administrators David Bridgman and Colin McCloy of Pwc said tonight.The Birkenhead, Bishopdale Mens, Bishopdale Womens and Kids, Dannevirke, Gore, Mt Roskill, Papatoetoe, Rangiora Kids, St Lukes, Sydenham, Te Kuiti and Westgate stores will close in the first week of July."Due to the on-going needs of the wider business operations, the difficult decision has been made, in conjunction with management, to close a number of stores. All staff at these locations have been informed," McCloy said.The day after Postie's administration it was announced that an unnamed major international retail group was doing due diligence with a view to buying the firm.Postie Plus' chairman Richard Punter said then that he would neither confirm nor deny that large South African investment group Pepkor was behind the offer, as one media report stated."All I'm prepared to say is we have been speaking with a company for many months and . . . that the company is in due diligence," he said. Pepkor has retailing chains in Africa, Eastern Europe and Australia.
Monday 23rd June 2014Celebrating Tararua's community championsTararua District residents now have the annual opportunity to recognise the dedication of their local voluntary groups - with entries for the Trustpower Tararua District Community Awards now open. Run in partnership with the Tararua District Council, the Awards are open to all voluntary groups and organisations working to make Tararua a better place to live. Anyone can enter a voluntary group or organisation for the Trustpower Tararua District Community Awards - voluntary groups and organisations can even enter themselves.Since the Trustpower Tararua District Community Awards began in 2004 more than $54,000 has been given away to deserving voluntary groups and organisations, and this year more than $5000 is up for grabs.Last year 72 groups were entered for the Trustpower Tararua District Community Awards. Trustpower Community Relations Representative Somerville is looking forward to seeing the community get on board to recognise more of these local unsung heroes."Voluntary groups are a formidable force of good in the Tararua community and everyday members benefit from their hard work. From the teams that work behind the scenes at community events to the supportive coaches on the side-lines to the tireless fundraising teams; volunteers are in every corner of this region but often they are not recognised for the invaluable work they do.One of the best ways to demonstrate the importance of volunteering to the Tararua community is to ensure volunteers' contributions are recognised, valued and accounted for.Now you have the chance to say 'thank you' to these volunteers who work hard to improve the community - just by filling out an entry form. It takes just a few minutes of your time to enter a group but it will make a real difference to the volunteers you are recognising," says Miss Somerville.Locals have until 5pm on Friday 1 August to get entries in for this year's Trustpower Tararua District Community Awards. Entry Forms are available from Council offices or service centres or can be completed online here >>> Entry Forms can also be received by calling Jess Somerville on 0800 87 11 11.The awards cover five categories; Heritage and Environment, Health and Wellbeing, Arts and Culture, Sport and Leisure, and Education and Child/Youth Development. Category winners receive $500, runners-up receive $250 and the Supreme Winner will take home $1,500 and an all-expenses paid trip for two representatives to the 2014 Trustpower National Community Awards. Last year's Trustpower Tararua District Community Awards Supreme Winner was Pahiatua Help-N-Hand.
Community transport idea for DannevirkeCommunity vehicle trusts are changing the way people get around smaller towns across New Zealand and it's an idea that's currently on the cards for Dannevirke residents.Rural communities and small towns often experience situations where there is a lack of public transport and a decreasing or non-existent taxi service.Community vehicle trusts are owned and operated by the community, with vehicles driven by local volunteers to the benefit of local people needing transport. Several such trusts have been operating successfully in the Canterbury Region for a number of years.Horizons Regional Council, Mid Central Public Health Services, Tararua District Council and the Dannevirke Community Board along with representatives from several other local groups in Dannevirke are working together to bring the concept to the Tararua, starting with Dannevirke.A public discussion is being held at Grey Power's next meeting, 1.30pm Wednesday 25 June at The Hub, to talk through how a community vehicle trust could work.Horizons Regional Council road safety coordinator Debbie Webster says "from a road safety perspective, there may be older drivers who are no longer medically fit to drive safely, or who may just be feeling more nervous about driving in todays busy road environments. Many of these drivers are reluctant to stop driving because they feel they will then have to rely on family and friends to transport them around"."If they knew there was another transport option available which allowed them to retain their independence they may be more likely to take that step and retire from driving," she says.The use of a community vehicle wouldn't just be limited to older people. It would also provide a transport option to community members with disabilities, those who don't hold a driver's licence or people who have no other means of transport available to them during the day such as families where one partner has to take the family car to work.Providing transport options in the community also helps the sustainability of local infrastructure such as supermarkets and other businesses and keeps rural areas and small towns viable and thriving.Dannevirke Community Board member Bob Dresser says a community vehicle would be designed to complement rather than compete against other providers such as the St John Health Shuttle, which provides transport to medical appointments within and outside of the district."The idea is that it would work alongside the shuttle, providing transport to the supermarket, other shops around town, meetings or other appointments usually within the town boundary. Those using the service will be expected to contribute a small fee to cover the running costs of each trip," he says.All are welcome to attend the public meeting regarding the community vehicle concept. This is being held during at the next Grey Power meeting at The Hub, on Wednesday 25th June at 1.30pm. If anyone would like to express a view or attend this meeting they are asked to contact Bob Dresser on 06 374 6270.Voxy
Wednesday 11th June 2014
The "End of an Era"Deconstruction of Dannevirke's Galloway House (ex Nurses Home) is well underway . Ramze Demolition from Longburn and Heartland Group Ltd from Christchurch won the tender from the Ministry of Justice in March of this year to demolish 13 Ruahine St (ex Galloway Nurses Hostel), Dannevirke.
The 73 bedroom building will take up to 4 months to demolish from the inside out, piece by piece. The former dining room and main foyer are filling up with many items which are going to be available to view and purchase on Sunday's and Monday's. Demolition items include kitchen units and equipment, tables, chairs, beds, sofa's, lights and lots lots more Jason Ramsay of Ramze Demolition said.
The Nurse's Home was officially opend on the 10th December 1954 by Hon. J.R Marshall, M.P Minister of Health, 48 years after the Dannevirke Public Hospital was opened.For many nurses and some doctors here around the world lived there while training and working at the Hospital. So many good memories were had when you mention the Nurse's Graduations there is only one name pops to mind "Galloway House" - if only the walls could talk!! The Hospital closed it doors in 1997, Galloway House continued for a short time as a bording house before closing . It re-opened as the Dannevirke Accommodation Centre, home to many contract workers and to many locals before closing in 2012. This December Galloway House would be celebrating it's 60th Birthday.
The "Galloway House Garage Sale" will start this Sunday 15th June from 2 - 4pm and the same times on Monday 16th June, with these days to follow through the months of June, July and August for further inquiries you can contact Jason on 021 241 2189.Dannevirke.net.nz
New rail safety campaign launched in Central North Island.A new level crossing roadside safety campaign has been launched in the Central North Island by rail safety charitable trust TrackSAFE NZ.The new safety road signs have been installed at 11 different sites including Dannevirke, Woodville, Levin, Shannon, Opiki, Mangaweka and Tangiwai.
TrackSAFE NZ Manager Megan Drayton says the campaign started last week and aims to prevent near collisions and collisions between vehicles and trains."Around half of the signs have the message "See Tracks Think Train" which reminds motorists to always look for trains as they approach a level crossing", she says.The remaining signs have the message: "I can't stop, you can". "Sometimes it's good for people to remember that trains can't stop in a hurry, and that is one of the reasons they always have the legal right of way over cars and people at every level crossing."Ms Drayton says the campaign is using an image of an actual locomotive engineer (train driver) to remind motorists that behind the train is someone who is just doing their job."Train drivers find it very stressful witnessing drivers not stopping at flashing lights and bells or trying to race the train," she says.TrackSAFE NZ
Monday 3rd June 2014
Aotea outstanding.
Aotea outplayed and outscored their challengers at Dannevirke's Rugby Park yesterday afternoon in the "Hunter Shield" challenge.
Aotea supporters were treated to an outstanding game of rugby, unfortunately it was a very frustrating 80 minutes for Dannevirke Senior Reserves.
Supporters watched as Aotea beat Dannevirke 66-3 in a very fast and dominating game, Dannevirke fought well but Aotea's defence and game play was just too strong.
After last weeks win against Flaxmere Aotea came out on the field with one thing in mind and that was to get there hands on the "Hunter Shield" the highest prize for senior rugby in Dannevirke and that is what they did.
Ever since the first challenge game in 1902, the Hunter Shield has been a fiercely fought contest between the two top senior teams in Dannevirke. For many years we had five teams Dannevirke Old Boys, Ruahine, Excelsior, Rangitane and Aotea all having challenged this shield but as times have changed and with only having two clubs left, it is great to see after 112 years the "Hunter Shield" a big part of Dannevirke's rugby history is still being challenged for today.
For more challenge action check out the Dannevirke NZ Facebook page here >>>
National policy on fracking urged
Anti-fracking campaigners in Tararua are concerned a report that finds regulations in New Zealand are inadequate to manage the risks posed by the proliferation of oil and gas drilling may not be taken seriously.
Parliamentary commissioner for the environment Dr Jan Wright has released her final report on fracking, the hydraulic fracturing of rock to release fossil fuels.
"The 'Taranaki approach' cannot be simply extrapolated across a country of such varying geology and hydrogeology," she said.
Fracking would almost certainly be required if exploration wells were to yield "unconventional" oil in commercial quantities and become production wells.
"This may be a very different proposition from the 'tightsands' fracking that has been done in Taranaki for over 20 years."
She recommended the Government develop a national policy statement. Regional council plans should include better rules for dealing with wells, which in turn should be designed to minimise the risk of leaking into aquifers.
Processes around who paid if something went wrong needed improvement, as did enforcement of regulations on hazardous substances Disposal of waste on farmland needed review.
Tararua Mayor Roly Ellis said there would be discussions once there had been time to digest the information. "Until I've read the whole thing it's very difficult for me to comment too much, but certainly we will be sitting down with the regional council and working out what this really means. No doubt the oil companies will as well."
Tararua Frack Free member Daphne Miller was concerned no-one would take responsibility for the report's implementation.
"The regulations certainly don't go far enough, but it's the follow-up that's a problem as far as I can see.
"When we ask questions we get put from one department to another department and no-one wants to take responsibility."
Anti-fracking campaigner Richard Green welcomed the report's conclusion. "I would agree with that assessment, but where do we go from here? Are we developing locally the ability to test or to do what we can to protect ourselves, because the oil companies are left to self-moderate."
Environment Minister Amy Adams said her ministry would monitor the effectiveness of its own guidelines issued in March, and the report would inform any review.
Energy and Resources Minister Simon Bridges said energy and minerals provided unique opportunities to grow the economy. "But it's not about development at any cost, and the Government is committed to developing our resources in a safe and environmentally responsible way."
Manawatu Standard
Friday 16th May 2014
No merger but quake plan stays
A proposed merger of Dannevirke's library and town service centre has been shelved, but the Tararua District Council has been left with a headache concerning earthquake-prone buildings.
Quake-prone buildings dominated the agenda as the council worked through its draft Annual Plan yesterday ahead of its final sign-off next month.
The biggest variation made at a meeting in Dannevirke was a vote not to combine the town's service centre and library into one building.
The council had received 87 submissions about the proposed merger, with seven in favour and 80 against the move, including one submission with a petition of 118 signatures.
Councillor Shirley Hull said the message from submitters was clear and councillors needed to listen.
The decision means the council will not save money through the improved efficiency of running both the service centre and the library under one roof.
It also raised the question of what to do with the earthquake-prone service centre building.
The bill for the strengthening of that property was most recently estimated to be $274,000.
Council chief executive Blair King said councillors needed to decide whether to act now or wait until the Government passed its earthquake-prone building legislation, by which time the cost of the project would have gone up.
"The cost of materials and the cost of that construction are increasing," King said.
This was happening at levels "far greater" than the rate of inflation.
There was $274,000 in the draft Annual Plan for the work, which had been carried over from the current financial year, he said.
The $274,000 price tag was an estimate though and more detailed work was being done now to refine that figure.
Hull said it was possible then that the actual cost could be less than $274,000, if the problems with the building were less severe than first thought or the Government eased requirements on fixing earthquake-prone buildings.
At present the legislation, which is still before Parliament, requires buildings that meet less than 33 per cent of the current building code to be identified within five years and strengthened within 15.
Councillor David Roberts suggested holding off on the repairs for a year until the council had all the information it needed. The council should also look at fundraising options, he said.
Councillor Warren Davidson said it was time the council bit the bullet.
"If we keep putting it off we'll keep finding excuses and never do it," he said.
The council also had to consider the message it was sending to other owners of at-risk buildings, he said.
Ad Feedback "It we keep dragging the chain, how can we expect other building owners to act responsibly and do the work that's required?"
The council voted to keep the $274,000 in this year's budget.
It also voted to consider its options for the Dannevirke Carnegie Centre, another earthquake-prone building in the Tararua District.
The cost of strengthening work for the building is estimated at $280,000.
The council had received 16 submissions related to the building. Nine were in favour of carrying out strengthening work, five were opposed, one saw the Pahiatua Service Centre as a higher priority and one opposed the building's closure.
The council opted to look at the potential for a charitable trust to be set up to fundraise for the building's repair.
Roberts said he preferred dealing with the building through a trust "rather than waste $280,000 of taxpayers' money on it".
The last historic building on the agenda was the former BNZ Bank building in Woodville.
Its owner Hermann Goeckel had offered the art deco building to the council along with the $260,000 debt attached to it.
The council declined the offer.
The council also opted to lighten the average rates increase of 3.46 per cent slightly by using $225,000 from reserves to fund some of next year's expenditure.
- Manawatu Standard
Friday 16th May 2014Dangerous SH2 bridge soon to be replacedTenders will be called for next month for the $6 million replacement of a bridge north of Dannevirke well known as a black spot.
Retiring Wairarapa MP John Hayes said funding for the replacement of the Whakaruatapu Bridge was in place and designs had been completed.
"I am delighted that funding has finally come through for this bridge. It has been a major concern to many motorists and locals for a long time," Hayes said.
"Contract documents are being prepared at present by NZTA staff and tenders will be called early next month. The contract could be let as early as mid-June and the contractor could take control of the site from July. Depending on weather, the construction could be under way by September."
Tararua District Mayor Roly Ellis has described the narrow bridge on State Highway 2 as an accident waiting to happen.
Hayes said Ellis should be acknowledged for his "patience and perseverance in keeping this high-risk bridge at the forefront of NZTA's attention".
"A number of other locals have made submissions to Government as well as a petition organised by a local farmer and signed by 1300 constituents have all helped to achieve this outcome," Hayes said.
The NZTA had ranked the bridge last year as the second-highest regional roading priority after the upgrade of the Saddle Rd.
Dannevirke CCTV closer to realityPlans for a CCTV security camera network in Dannevirke are closer to reality after a big boost from the business community.
The plan to set up 37 cameras to cover the central business district and side alleys has been slow to come to fruition, with funding the main hurdle.
One man who will be relieved to see the cameras is Kim Phelps, whose High St business, The Osteopathic Clinic, was recently broken into for the third time since November.
"I don't feel victimised and I haven't been targeted," he said yesterday. "It's just these little a...holes like smashing my windows, that's all. They always come in and they always run over to the till and check if there's a cash drawer there, and there's no cash drawer. Boom, the alarm goes off and they scatter again."
He said he was left to clean up a pile of glass and repair damage to the doors. "Being kids, they're just in and out. They don't take anything else. I've got really good organic food here and they don't bother with it. They probably can't cook."
He had been to meetings about the proposed CCTV system and would love to see it set up.
The CCTV network is a community-driven initiative involving several organisations under the umbrella of Dannevirke Promotion and Development.
"We're at the situation where our cabling is starting to go in now . . . and we've notified our people who are actually having cameras outside their premises, and they pay for the electricity as well," steering committee chairman Bob Dresser said.
He estimated the network would cost $85,000 but he could not say how much had been raised ahead of a committee meeting where the finances would be discussed.
"We did very well as a result of the Chamber of Commerce having a breakfast meeting at which I spoke about CCTV, and also the police, and the chamber got right behind it."
Dannevirke Chamber of Commerce chairman Suresh Patel said the chamber decided to support the project after the committee approached it in February.
He said the breakfast meeting attracted 60 members, all of whom were given pledge forms to take away. The chamber started the campaign by contributing $5000 itself.
"The good thing is we are well under way to raising our target."
There had been a "fantastic response" not only from business, but also clubs, organisations and even individuals. As a result, he estimated the project was "eight-tenths of the way" to being finalised.
"The chamber felt it was a necessity for the town - not that we've got any major issues, no worse than any township or city in the country, but having CCTV will help us monitor the existing problems."
Dresser said: "We're now at the situation where we're moving to install cameras." The project was now into the third year and "it's not been easy, but at the end of the day I'm sure it will be worth it."
Wednesday 14th May 2014
Dannevirke house fire to be investigated
Detectives today are investigating the scene of an overnight Dannevirke house fire.
The house, on James St was badly damaged in the fire, which began just before 11pm yesterday, fire communications shift manager Jan Wills said.
Three fire crews battled the ''well involved'' blaze, which was out by 1.20am.
Nobody was in the house at the time.
Fire safety officers and CIB detectives were going to the scene this morning to investigate the cause.
Tuesday 6th May 2014
Tararua District Council to conduct residents survey
As part of its on-going commitment to actively seek public opinion and involvement, Tararua District Council is to conduct a survey of its residents.
"We have a responsibility to track how well our efforts are carrying through to our residents. The best way to do this is to interview a representative cross-section of residents, and to have this done by an independent professional group to ensure impartiality."
National Research Bureau, an independent research company offering specialised services to Local Authorities throughout New Zealand, has been commissioned to undertake the survey and report to the Council.
People living in the two Wards in the district will be telephoned, using a randomised selection method, and asked their opinions on a wide ranging list of services and issues pertaining to the Council, and the services it delivers to the residents of the district.
This initiative is in the spirit of the changes in local government, whereby Councils are urged to take a proactive stance in understanding and meeting residents' wishes.
The survey commences on Friday, 9 May, and is expected to be completed on Sunday, 18 MayTDC
'Another hurdle' for Rangitaane'
Rangitaane is to "revisit" its relationship with the Tararua District Council after councillors voted not to support any Treaty settlement agreement that includes joint management of public reserves.
The council heard submissions in March on a draft proposal to establish a joint reserve management committee.
Rangitaane o Tamaki nui a Rua and the Tararua District Council would have been equal partners managing the Dannevirke Domain, the Makirikiri Recreation Reserve, and the Makirikiri Scenic Reserve.
The proposal to support Rangitaane in its Treaty of Waitangi claim also included vesting the Crown-owned Hamua Recreation Reserve near Eketahuna, at present vested with the council, with Rangitaane.
The council received 397 submissions on the draft proposal last month, most of which opposed it either in part or in full.
Councillors decided unanimously yesterday to notify the Crown that it did not support any Treaty settlement agreement that included the council forming joint reserve management committees while settlement negotiations in the district were continuing.
Among other things, they would also notify the Crown of the council's generic support for the use of the Hamua and Makirikiri properties for Treaty settlements.
However, the council would request that the Crown engage with submitters and resolve specific mentions of interest in the sites.
Rangitaane and the Crown reached an agreement in principle at the end of March to settle historical Treaty claims.
The agreement is the second-largest settlement in terms of geographic area.
Rangitaane o Tamaki nui a Rua chief executive Oriana Paewai said the claim was lodged in 1989 and had been an arduous process.
Commenting on the council's decision, she said: "It's just another hurdle in terms of reaching our aspirations as an iwi."
She said the iwi's relationship with the council, in terms of a memorandum of partnership signed in 2000, had been longstanding.
"This probably has been a test of that relationship from our perspective, and I'm very sure from the council's perspective as well."
She said Rangitaane would have to regroup and work out its next strategy. "We are no less determined to meet our aspirations. Our position has never changed. We've been very clear in terms of the Dannevirke Domain what we want, and we still want that.
"How we get there . . . we're going to have to regroup and restrategise."
She said the iwi's interest in the Dannevirke Domain was about cultural redress in terms of wahi tapu (sacred sites) and whakapapa connection.
"The memorandum of understanding is still intact. The relationship will be revisited, probably.
"In terms of restrategising, that revisiting will be part of that. Obviously the outcome would be different if the decision had been different."
Council chief executive Blair King said the council's decision was in light of the feedback from all parties in the consultation process.
He did not want to comment on the effect on the relationship with Rangitaane.
"It's very difficult because we have an agreement with them, and a partnership, and that's something we are keen to continue, so there will be a follow-up with that."
Fairfax NZ
Friday 25th April 2014
Hundreds attend Dannevirke Anzac Day services.
More than 500 people attended the Dawn and Civic services in Dannevirke, the largest gathering seen for many years.
The servicemen's parade from Swimburn Street to the Cenotaph at the Domain was well supported, with representatives of groups, services and schools within the district laid wreaths at the base of the Cenotaph.
Master of Ceremonies, Tararua Councillor David Roberts, welcomed everyone to the service, especially former servicemen and women.
Rod Southgate led the gathering in prayers and Hariru Hauraki and Greg Berry (D.H.S.), Reihana Paewai and Kalani Marsh (Te Kura Kaupapa o Maori Tamaki-Nui-A-Rua), Courtney Harrison and Ashton Seerden (Totara College) read the chosen Scriptures. Guest speaker was Army Officer at New Zealand Defence Force Major Jacob Murray. Full coverage of the Dawn and Civic services can be seen on the Dannevirke NZ facebook page click here >>>
Wednesday 16th April 2014
A Perfect "Blood Moon" over Dannevirke
The clouds kept away and the rain waited until the early morning, allowing the east coast region a perfect view of what is the first of four successive total lunar eclipses.The moon rose from the east just before 6.30pm and was completely within the shadow by 7.06pm. In a lunar eclipse, the moon is obscured as it passes through the Earth's shadow.
Two shadows will cross the moon during the event - the large penumbra (or ``almost-shadow''), which dims the moon, and the umbra, a smaller opaque shadow caused by the Earth blocking out the light from the sun to the moon.
The next total lunar eclipse for our region to look forward to will be overnight on October 8/9, with mid-eclipse at 11.55pm. The eclipse on April 4, 2015, will also be visible from this country, but that of September 28, 2015, would not be.
Thursday 10th April 2014
Work starts on Pahiatua dryer
Fonterra is pouring concrete as the multimillion-dollar expansion of its Pahiatua plant picks up pace.
The company is building a new milk powder dryer and creating more storage in the $200 million to $250m revamp.
Reinforcing steel and other earthquake-proofing measures were in place, plant manager Bill Boakes said. He said that 500 cubic metres of concrete would be poured today, with 10 trucks pouring concrete and then travelling to Pahiatua and Dannevirke to re-fill.
The site employs about 130 people, with the rebuild meaning a further 50 jobs will be created, Boakes said.
Fonterra wants to increase milk powder production with a third dryer.
The Pahiatua plant will take all the milk produced on the eastern side of the island - from Hawke's Bay to Wellington.
The train that now carts milk to Fonterra's Hawera site will not be needed once the new powder plant is built.
Fonterra project manager Scott Rowden said it was a major construction, with an entire village for the work force on-site.
Rowden said work on the dryer had started as it was the longest part of the build.
Land use and discharge permits from Horizons Regional Council and Tararua District Council were given for the expansion.
The plant site, called the Mangamutu Dairy Factory - just west of Pahiatua - has a railway line and natural gas line within it.
The operation will expand milk powder processing from the two dryers which currently take a total of about 1.4 million litres to almost treble that, with the new milk dryer capable of processing a further 2.5 million litres.
Most people were in favour of the expansion, saying it would bring much needed economic growth to the region.
Fonterra is also creating a storage area and new railway siding to load dairy product.
Boakes said the expanded plant was expected to be ready for commissioning in early August 2015.
Thursday 3rd April 2014
Tararua area in for gas, oil exploration
A chunk of Tararua measuring about 1341 square kilometres has been opened up for oil and gas exploration.
Energy and Resources Minister Simon Bridges launched the third annual block offer for exploration at an industry conference in Wellington yesterday.
The area, adjoining existing permitted areas and extending from south of Norsewood to south of Pahiatua and along the ranges, was one of eight release areas.
Tararua Mayor Roly Ellis said he had not heard of any company expressing interest in the area yet, although he expected there would be interest.
Whether exploration would benefit the district would depend on the details.
"There are going to be pluses and minuses depending on where they want to drill, really. We wouldn't want them drilling into any aquifers and that sort of thing," Ellis said.
"But I think we really need to wait and see what comes up."
Bridges said oil, worth about $1.8 billion in 2012, was the country's fourth-largest export.
"The Government receives around 42 per cent of the profits, or approximately $700 million each year. This money is invested back into our communities in key infrastructure projects like schools, roads and hospitals.
"But we have barely scratched the surface of our potential.
"If just one more of our 18 basins was opened for production, like Taranaki, it would be an economic game-changer for our nation.
"That is why the Government will continue to work hard to attract major international companies to invest in petroleum exploration and development in New Zealand."
Ellis said oil was "not a one-minute wonder" and he did not expect to see high levels of production in the district any time soon.
"I think it's going to be slowly, slowly. I don't think we'll ever get into the amount of production that's come out of Taranaki for a long, long while.
"There's been no rush over the whole thing, despite what one or two people say. I think they have to take it fairly slowly and see what there is.
"It costs a vast amount of money to put one of these wells down. Nobody's just going to go and drill willy-nilly. There's a lot of research going on."
Tag Oil, which has an exploratory well near Dannevirke, said in February an independent reservoir characterisation study had confirmed oil was being generated in the Whangai source rocks.
Chief executive Garth Johnson said last month the company planned to flow test the well by the middle of the year to determine what quantities of oil, gas or both flowed out of the well.
The company would expect to know if the well was commercially viable within weeks of testing.
The other two onshore release areas announced yesterday were in the Taranaki Basin and West Coast Basin.
The offshore release areas were in the Reinga-Northland, Taranaki, New Caledonia, Pegasus-East Coast, Great South and Canterbury basins.
The invitation for bids closes on September 25 and permits are expected to be granted in December.
Fairfax NZ News
Iwi in favour of exploration
A large North Island iwi has given the thumbs up for oil and gas exploration around Dannevirke - provided there's no harm to the environment.
The Government is preparing to issue permits to companies who want to search for natural resources, opening up several new areas on and off shore.
One block being offered is on land around Dannevirke, falling within the territory of Ngati Kahungunu.
Leader Ngahiwi Tomoana said if there are oil and gas reserves in the tribe's rohe, the iwi wanted to be involved.
But he said under his people's kaitiaki role, environmental safety was paramount.
The Government is also urging prospecting firms to bid for the right to explore a vast chunk of the West Coast.
Local Ngai Tahu tribal council - Te Runanga o Ngati Waewae - said it did not have too many concerns.
It had had good communication and consultation with the Government about the block offer and would work with any permit holder on where they should and should not look for oil and gas.
Tararua Council rolls out economic development plan
The Tararua District Council Economic Development Plan 2013-2018 has recently been released. Over the next few weeks we will be profiling the key initiatives of the plan - watch this space!
The purpose of the Tararua District Council Economic Development Plan is to identify long-term growth goals to 2018 that will create a stronger district economy.
'A strong, growing, prosperous local economy that attracts, welcomes and retains businesses and residents.'
By setting a common course, working with the business community and investing in shared goals, we will create synergies and generate better economic outcomes.
Some sectors in an economy can be viewed as drivers of growth - such as agriculture - and others viewed as enablers or support sectors largely shaped by the size of driver (for example, growing agriculture will grow the number of accountants and lawyers needed, but not vice versa).
The plan will assist largely to clarify Council's commitment to economic development and sustainability within the Tararua District. Through its goals, it will encourage the fostering of an environment that facilitates economic growth.
The plan has a five-year period, which is reviewed annually to ensure it is aligned with the strategic direction of the Tararua District Council and the expectations of its community.
The Economic Development Plan has five themes as the central focus:
- Support and facilitate growth in local business
- Build district identity
- Promote the district by telling our story
- Business friendly and welcoming support for new residents
- A strong, growing, prosperous local economy that attracts, welcomes and retains businesses and residents
Council has been increasing the number of resources focused on economic development in the last two years. However, Council cannot create jobs and wealth - that is the role of the private sector. Council can ensure the infrastructure is in place to support business, and to enable, co-ordinate and promote business opportunities and initiatives - as well as the great lifestyle choices available in the district.
Tararua Distric Council
Dannevirke A & P Association and Dannevirke Lions Club Small Holders Auction
Dannevirke Motorists Advised to Take Care Around Level Crossings
Rail safety organisation TrackSAFE NZ is reminding Dannevirke motorists of the rules around railway level crossings, following an incident recently where a courier stopped his vehicle at a level crossing protected by flashing lights and bells, but then proceeded to cross the tracks in front of a train.
Manager of TrackSAFE NZ Megan Drayton says she was made aware of the incident after a member of the public witnessed and filmed the incident and then posted it on Facebook.
"Obviously we were concerned to see this footage," she says. "Aside from breaking the law and risking prosecution from the Police, this type of behaviour is placing drivers at enormous personal risk.
"We really would like to get the message out there that the law requires all motorists to obey the warning signs and signals at level crossings, and that they should never attempt to race a train.
"Trains travel faster than they appear, and research has proven that people cannot accurately judge the speed of an approaching train.
She says it's also important to ensure there is enough space for the vehicle on the other side of the crossing to avoid becoming trapped on the tracks when the signals are activated.
Ms Drayton says "near collision" incidents such as this one involving the courier van put enormous stress on the locomotive engineers who drive the trains.
Every incident like this is extremely upsetting. The only thing a train driver can do when they see a vehicle or person on the tracks in front of them is to put on the emergency brake and hope for the best.
"When trains are travelling at high speeds there is very little chance that they will be able to stop in time."
In the past ten years in New Zealand there have been more than 235 collisions between trains and vehicles. Around 75 per cent of near collisions occur at crossings with flashing lights and bells and/or barrier arms.
TrackSAFE NZ is a charitable trust that aims to raise awareness about rail safety and educate the public on how they can keep themselves safe around railway tracks. Formerly known as the Chris Cairns Foundation, it amalgamated with harm prevention charity TrackSAFE in Australia in October last year.TrackSAFE NZ
Roading maintenance contract sought for TararuaAfter a detailed review, Council has resolved at a special meeting on 11 March 2014 to tender a new road and bridge maintenance contract starting 1 July 2014.
This will enable contractors to propose new methods and options that reflect challenges with maintaining nearly 2000km of network.
By tendering now, Council will have clear evidence on actual costs for the next five years when they negotiate the new block allocation of roading subsidies with the New Zealand Transport Agency during 2014-15.
The New Zealand Transport Agency has been reviewing how the Funding Assistance Rates (FAR) are set and applied. During 2014, the Transport Agency will consider the FAR that will apply for the 2015-2018 investment.
Interested contractors are encouraged to contact Ray Cannon, Manager Engineering Services, on telephone 06 376 0218 (South) or 06 374 4080 (North) to discuss details of the tender.
Tuesday 4th March 2014
Flow tests to decide need for fracking
Tag Oil will know within weeks of starting its next test whether its Ngapaeruru-1 exploratory well near Dannevirke is commercially viable.
"We plan to flow test the well by the middle of this year," chief executive Garth Johnson said. "This testing usually takes two to four weeks."
He said flow testing was to see what quantities of oil, gas or both flowed out of the well.
The results would also determine whether hydraulic fracture stimulation, commonly referred to as fracking, would be an option.
"However, due to what we have learned already, it is highly unlikely for this well," he said.
Mr Johnson said Tag had not applied to Horizons Regional Council for a fracking consent.
Last week the company said earlier tests had shown the rock under Ngapaeruru-1 was naturally fractured, indicating there might not be a need for fracking.
"We didn't know the rock below Ngapaeruru-1 would be naturally fractured," Mr Johnson said. "We only found that out via the exploratory well.
"We don't know yet if it will be commercially viable and we will only find that out by flow testing . . . As we have said before, this is a methodical step-by-step process."
When Tag released its third-quarter financial results recently, it said an independent reservoir characterisation study had confirmed oil was being generated in the Whangai source rocks.
Encouraged by the report, the company said it would progress to the next stage of testing at the well, which it described as perforation and production testing.
That raised the suspicions of anti-fracking campaigners who were unfamiliar with the concept of perforation.
"Perforation is simply putting holes in the sealed pipe - called production casing - at the place in the rock the hydrocarbons will potentially allow oil and gas to flow from a specific formation," Mr Johnson said.
"When a well is drilled it is lined with layers of steel pipe and cement. The tubing is only perforated in the zones where there may be moveable hydrocarbons.
"These zones where hydrocarbons are found are themselves encased in layers of impermeable rock - which is why the hydrocarbons have stayed trapped in these zones for millions of years."
He said the company would expect to know if the well was commercially viable within weeks of testing. "However, as we have said before, this well was to learn more about exactly what is happening in the rock formations where oil and gas are being produced. It is the first step in our plan to discover if oil and gas reserves on the east coast are commercially viable."
Hose restrictions in Tararua
A total hosing ban has been imposed on Norsewood, while two other Tararua towns have been subjected to hosing restrictions.
Prompted by continuing hot, dry weather and high water demand, the Tararua District Council says the hosing ban in Norsewood, which is in immediate effect, will be enforced until further notice.
The ban includes garden sprinklers, unattended water systems, soak hoses and hand-held hoses.
Residents may also not clean cars, wash houses or windows or refill swimming pools.
Hosing restrictions have also come into immediate effect in Pahiatua and Woodville.
The council says hand-held hoses may be used between 7pm and 9pm on alternate days - houses with even street numbers on even days and houses with odd street numbers on odd days.
''The co-operation of all residents with conserving water will help alleviate the possibility of more severe restrictions,'' the council says.
Monday 24th February 2014
The fire danger level in the district has gone from MODERATE to HIGH as a result of settled weather experienced over the last week. This is due to continue until the weekend. Although there is heavy dew in the mornings, this is being burnt off during the day because of the high temperatures. At this stage it is not intended to impose a Restricted Fire Season however the situation will be reviewed later in the week.
Despite the fact that the fire season to date has been fairly wet, we have had more fires than we had during the drought season last year. This has been mainly due to carelessness on the part of the persons lighting fires. In one case a farmer tried to burn a small part of a large clear felled forest area and the wind changed causing the fire to get out of control. Had he checked the weather forecast he would have known about the wind change and not lit up. He will be required to pay for the fire fighting costs. Another farmer lit a rubbish fire about 4 metres from a 3 bay shed filled with straw. The wind came up and embers blew into the straw and destroyed it along with the shed.
If people are going to light up they should check the weather forecast first. They could also check the Rural Fire page of the Council web site at www.tararuadc.govt.nz for some useful information about the fire season status and use of fire as a farm management tool. If they are in doubt they can also seek advice from a Council Rural Fire Officer.TDC
The "Great Dannevirke Day Out"
The Dannevirke Railway Station and town was a hive of activity on Sunday afternoon as the " The Great Dannevirke Day Out" from the Hawks Bay and the "Viking Express" from Paekakariki trains arrived and disgorged their hundreds of passengers for a one hour stop and engine changeover before returning home. The locals young and old also came out in force to witness and photograph an sight rarely seen these days especially the steam locomotive Ja1271.Click here Dannevirke NZ Facebook to check out all the photos.
Beatson and Centrico win Feilding grand prix
Maurice Beatson is starting to wind up for the biggest show of the season, after winning the the ESNZ Horse Grand Prix at the Manfield Park One Star Show in Feilding on Sunday.
Aboard Centrico, Beatson headed off 14 other combinations to take the honours comfortably ahead of Danielle Maurer on Double Dutch who was the only other rider to go double clear.
Four went through to the jump-off where a tricky line caught out eventual third and fourth place-getters Claire Wilson on McMillans Tipsey and Jamie Howie on Zalula.
Beatson stopped the clock five seconds faster than Maurer. Centrico, a bay gelding who arrived from Germany two-and-a-half years ago as a stallion, has only done a handful of grand prix classes and is just starting to get established at that level.
In the Country TV Pony Grand Prix Jordan Giltrap will forever remember her first big start with victory on Busta Rhymes. The débutante combination beat 17 others to take the honours. Just two went through to the jump-off where Giltrap went clear and runner-up Mat Irvine on Fun House had a rail.
The main classes marked the end of a successful two-day show at Manfield.
ESNZ Horse Grand Prix: Maurice Beatson (Dannevirke) Centrico 1, Danielle Maurer (Auckland) Double Dutch 2, Claire Wilson (Waipukurau) McMillans Tipsey 3, Jamie Howie (Taihape) Zalula 4, Maurice Beatson (Dannevirke) Schimmell Warrior 5, Simon Wilson (Waipukurau) McMillans Midway Smooth Dude 6.
Country TV Pony Grand Prix: Jordan Giltrap (Taranaki) Busta Rhymes 1, Matt Irvine (Waipukurau) Fun House 2, Jake Webb (Hunterville) Jakaranda 3, Hannah Fraser (Feilding) Tony The Pony 4, Parys Marshall (Taranaki) Spot U Later 5, Brooke Jenkins (Wellington) Viva Pinata 6.
Telford Young Rider: Logan Massie (Dannevirke) JJ Cloud Nine 1, Robert Wellwood (Hastings) Insightful 2, Robert Wellwood (Hastings) Cavallino 3, Jane Warren (Featherston) Dark Ages 4, Emily Fraser (Feilding) Maxamillion II 5, Claudia Porter (Hastings) Joia Hora 6.
Caledonia Amateur Rider: Diana Cottle (Wellington) Morpheus Rising 1, Natasha Mazey (Pukerua Bay) Kabo Lunar 2, Barry Beatson (Dannevirke) Sloane Square 3, Tania Dickey (Taranaki) Kiwi Felix 4, Tracey Mason (Hastings) Southern Distinction 5, Graeme Isaacson (Waipukurau) Lykon 6.
STH/LG Forge Pro Amateur Rider: Pearl Delaney-Girdlestone (Wellington) Windale Gracious 1, Sally Clark (Dannevirke) Victoria's Secret 2, Laura Knight (Palmerston North) Sir Arthur 3, Helen Bruce (Palmerston North) Toblerone 4, Heloise Tolo (Wellington) Transcend 5.
KiwiSpan Junior Rider: Rebecca Porter (Hastings) Mr Harrison 1, Larina Dolman (Gisborne) Kiwi Lansing 2, Emily Fraser (Feilding) Kiwi Relic 3, Will Moffett (Hastings) Kiwi Mimdie 4, Emma Thurlow (Taranaki) Clifton Ali 5, Emily Fraser (Feilding) Mr Munga 3 6.
Canterbury Equestrian Five Year Old: Elizabeth Vincent (Wakefield) Vamped NZPH 1.
Mitavite Munga Six Year Old: Elizabeth Vincent (Wakefield) Utah Jazz NZPH, Larina Dolman (Gisborne) Kiwi Lansing, Claire Wilson (Waipukurau) McMillans Fredrika, Maurice Beatson (Dannevirke) Lansbury Grosve, Claudia Porter (Hastings) Kiwi Jet, Maurice Beatson (Dannevirke) Mandalay Cove, Matt Dickey (Taranaki) Quando, Maurice Beatson (Dannevirke) Clearwater, Oliver Edgecombe (Waipukurau) Ultra Blue NZPH, Maurice Beatson (Dannevirke) Wishing Crown = 1
Progress in TAG's oil search
TAG Oil is proceeding with its Ngapaeruru-1 well east of Dannevirke after tests have confirmed the presence of petroleum-bearing rock which will respond well to fracking.
TAG made the update on the well's progress as part of its third-quarter financial results.
It said a study made by independent experts provided "a number of encouraging attributes, and important confirmation that TAG's drilling mud log interpretations from the Ngapaeruru-1 well demonstrate that oil is being generated in the Whangai source rocks".
TAG said it will perforate the well in the coming months, hoping to see if oil or gas will flow, which is "a critical step to pursuing the economic viability" of the project.
Because the source rock is naturally fractured, fracking might not be necessary.
The study's report indicated several positive aspects about the Whangai Formation source rock.
At the well it is 293m thick and highly naturally fractured. The rock is porous, permeable and has a very low clay content, "indicating fracture stimulation can be highly effective".
Horizons District Council chief executive Michael McCartney said no resource consent application to frack had been received.
He said fracking, the injection of sand-bearing water into rock in order to crack it and keep the cracks open, was a discharge into the environment, so consent was required.
Fracking is controversial due to environmental concerns over chemicals added to the fracking water.
In Taranaki, TAG has reported increased revenue for the three months ended December 31, up 19 per cent to $12,939,442 when compared to the same period last year. For the nine-month period it was up 35 per cent to $43,522,224.
In December TAG announced a joint venture inland from Gisborne with fellow Canadian company East West, which has interests in Romania, California, Morocco and India.
Saturday 15th February 2014
Initial road quake claim $626,000
Tararua District Council has submitted an initial claim of $626,000 to the New Zealand Transport agency for repairs to earthquake-damaged roads, but the figure is likely to rise.
Chief executive Blair King said yesterday the full cost of repairs to Tararua roads damaged in the Wellington Anniversary earthquake would become apparent only once repair work began.
The council has previously indicated the cost could be as high as $2 million.
Mr King said the repair process would begin once NZTA approval for the initial claim had been granted.
An initial claim left room for later adjustment as investigations were completed.
"It's saying if your assumptions are right and we can just go in and rip the top off and reseal some of these, then it's low cost," he said.
"If they rip the top off and suddenly say hello, there's water now coming into areas that didn't have water, or the cracks are quite extensive - they are actually bigger underground than they are on top - then we go back to NZTA and say right, now that we've actually dug the area up, this is what we've found.
"That's when you go back to NZTA with a revised estimate."
He said council staff had made the damaged sites safe, but repair work could not begin until approval of the initial claim had been granted.
The earthquake also caused extensive cracking in Eketahuna's piped wastewater network.
Mr King said this had not affected service delivery, but was still of concern to the council.
"The public don't notice it, we notice it," he said.
"If you have cracked pipes the infiltration rate goes up. In other words, as we get lots of this rain you end up with more water going into the pipes and sewerage so therefore the plant's under a higher load."
He said the council had two concerns, one of which was environmental.
"So if the plant is now under high load, that creates some challenges because it has been very wet lately, and the second one is the timing for repairs.
"With a water network you can have what is called a ring-fed system, in other words if you shut off one main you can still supply an area from the other side.
"Sewerage tends to be all gravity, so if you take one pipe out you have to appreciate there's only a limited storage space in the pipes upstream," he said..
"So that means there is a lot of pressure on the guys to do it right first time. You don't get a lot of second chances."
The council has reminded residents they have until April 22 to submit claims to the Earthquake Commission (EQC).
The EQC said on Thursday that it had received a total of 3436 claims relating to the Eketahuna earthquake. Of those, 489 were from Tararua.Fairfax NZ
Thursday 6th February 2014
Email option aids police
Dannevirke police have launched their own email address in an effort to garner more crime tips.
Launched this week, the email address was another option for people to use without going into the station, Tararua CIB Detective Shane Brown said.
Emergencies or events happening immediately should be directed to 111, but other tips, like sightings of suspicious vehicles driving in and out of a road, for instance, could be sent in via email.
The email address would be monitored regularly. Anyone who wanted to remain anonymous could always use the Crimestoppers tip line, which has call takers based in Britain to guarantee anonymity.
Mr Brown said that, particularly at this time of year, cannabis growing season, people might be able to email a registration plate, time, date, place and a description.
Mr Brown said similar addresses had been set up in two other Tararua stations, Woodville and Pahiatua.
The email address is email@example.com NZ
Monday 3rd February 2014
Buick wins Open final at Dannevirke & Districts A & P Show.
The Dannevirke & Districts A & P Association as part of their annual two day show held its shearing and wool handling competitions on the Friday.
This was well supported by competitors and spectators alike and some exciting competition was seen in all the classes. The premier event "The Open Shearing Competition" which was watched by a large crowd was won by local Pongaroa farmer/shearer David Buick from Napiers gun shearer John Kirkpatrick in a exciting nail bitting finish for the title.
Also held as part of the event was the wool handling competitions where competitors showed their best skills in dealing with the shorn wool as it came off the sheep. In the evening Aotea held their popular Speed Shearing Competition.Check out the Dannevirke NZ facebook page here>>>> for all the days action.Dannevirke.net.nz
Tuesday 14th January 2014Tararua Reclaims Lotto's Top Town TitleThe numbers are in and Tararua has topped the table as New Zealand's luckiest area for 2013.
Tararua was also top town in 2011, only briefly relinquishing the title in 2012 when a massive Powerball win in Te Kauwhata put Waikato in the lead.
A Dannevirke couple won $14.1 million with Big Wednesday in April, which helped tip the scales for the Tararua region, meaning on average locals won $867.58 per capita – almost double the second largest area.
But Dannevirke locals are none-the-wiser as to who the Big Wednesday winner is amongst them, especially after they decided not to lake the Lamborghini.
"We decided the Lamborghini wasn't for us – you can't put a tow bar on a Lamborghini," laughed the winner.
Auckland's Waitemata and Gulf ward had the year's largest single win of over $33 million with Lotto Powerball in September, which helped it take out second place with a respectable win per head of $475.26.
This was also the largest ever individual win in the history of Powerball, although famously it didn't stay in the Waitemata and Gulf ward as the winner was a self-proclaimed "Westie" from West Auckland.
The remaining spots in the top five were claimed by Taupo, Hastings and Marlborough. As with previous years, all of the top spots were awarded mainly due to a large prize being won in the region.
In this case these prizes were a Big Wednesday win of $8.6 million in Turangi in December, a $15 million Big Wednesday win in Hastings in January, and a $10.8 million Powerball win in Blenheim in March.The top ten districts for 2013 were Tararua, Auckland's Waitemata & Gulf ward, Taupo, Hastings, Marlborough, Buller, Gisborne, Tauranga, Auckland's Howick ward, and Christchurch City.
The second largest win of 2013 – and the most talked about – was the $22.6 million won by a Christchurch resident in September. The BigWednesday prize almost went unclaimed until Lotto New Zealand tracked down the winner.
There were also nine Lotto First Division winning tickets sold in Christchurch, helping one of New Zealand's largest cities to edge into the top ten table.
Over $411 million was won in prizes in 2013 with Lotto and Big Wednesday, with a total of 193 First Division prizes won by players around the country.
Lotto New Zealand also increased the amount transferred to the Lottery Grants Board in 2013, distributing a record $201.8 million, which is used to fund arts, sporting and community organisations and projects throughout New Zealand.
In terms of which Lotto store sold the most prizes, Manukau Pak N Save has retained its title for the fourth consecutive year, with over 73,000 winners winning more than $1.2 million in prizes.
Motorist smashes into fast food joint
It was ''extremely fortunate'' no children were in the play area of Dannevirke's McDonald's restaurant when a 4WD vehicle smashed through a wall last night say police.
The vehicle's 57-year-old male driver accidentally took his foot off the brake pedal and put it on the accelerator while parked beside the play area's glass door at around 7.30pm, said constable Paul Randall.
He said no-one was injured, but if there had been children in the play area it could have been ''catastrophic''.Fairfax NZ News
Thursday 19th December 2013
The driving force behind the Lions Coast to Coast
Unpaid rates exceed $1 million Tararua ratepayers are more than $1 million out of pocket and they have only themselves to blame.
The Tararua District Council is owed $1,052,958 in unpaid rates.
The figure, provided under the Local Government Official Information and Meetings Act, is for commercial, rural and residential properties. Council chief executive Blair King said a chunk of it would be for historical debt but it was a figure he was comfortable with.
The expected rates take was about $20m each year and the council allowed for up to 2 per cent of that not being paid, he said. "It is not significant, compared with other businesses who would love to have 98 per cent of their payments."
Mr King said the amount owing jumped once penalties kicked in.
Often people had a reason for not being able to pay, such as the power bill getting in the way or the tax collector knocking on the door.
"I know what is going to be paid first, because Inland Revenue can impose much harsher penalties than we can."
But there was a range of ways the council could deal with issues and recoup the money.
"The most obvious one is a phone call . . . and finding out their reasons," Mr King said. For more serious cases, the council could apply to have the land declared abandoned and, effectively, sell it from under the feet of the owner.
It is a process Tararua District Council staff have used before, with 13 properties in the abandoned land process as of June this year.
Those properties owed nearly $140,000 in overdue rates.
Mr King said it was not a common step, as it would not always pay off.
The cost of legal action could outweigh any potential rates recoveries.
The council could vote to cancel rates debts, which sometimes happened in cases like that.
Mr King said the council was always looking at ways to make sure rates were paid on time and that included consideration of how much rates were put up.
"It's about bringing things into the district versus what people can actually afford and trying to balance it," Mr King said.
"There are people who can pay it and it's an expense, through to those for who even a $2 a week change is the difference between balancing the budget and being over."
All councils in the Horizons region would have outstanding rates.
"If people haven't paid their Tararua rates, they probably haven't paid their Horizons ones either."
No speed reduction by school.
School children in Dannevirke may have a safer walk to school in the future, but those heading to a small Tararua school may not be as lucky.
Tararua District Council is reviewing speed limits across the district, and asked staff to see if parts of Weber Rd, which goes past Weber School, and a stretch of Tipapakuku Rd between Cowper and Riverdale roads, could be added to the list of reviewed sites.
At yesterday's council meeting, councillors were told the stretch of Weber Rd did not meet criteria for staff to recommend it have its speed lowered from 70kmh to 50kmh.
Chief executive Blair King told councillors they could recommend the area have its speed lowered anyway, but the NZ Transport Agency would probably say this was not appropriate.
Mayor Roly Ellis said the road was one where stock sometimes crossed. "I still think it is one of those places with a lot of heavy logging trucks going through and lots of visitors to the beach, and [the speed limit] should be lowered."
Councillor David Roberts said that if people wanted the speed lowered there, they would be able to make submissions when the proposal went out to the public.
The proposed Tipapakuku Rd speed reduction was accepted, but councillors did not add the Weber Rd stretch to the proposal.
The proposal will be publicly notified next week, with submissions closing at the end of February. The bylaw for the speed proposals is scheduled to come into force in May.
Wednesday 11th December 2013
Gabby Smyth nets six goals in series win over Australia New Zealand Under 18 team. Gabby Smyth is front row, third from the right. (Photo supplied) It's been an all all-star performance for both Leaside's Gabby Smyth and the New Zealand U18 team in their series with Australia in Dunedin,New Zealand this past week. With 15-year-old Gabby scoring a total of six goals and five assists, the team swept the four-game series. The young Canadian was a clear star and a huge asset to the NZ girls who netted a total of 13 goals against the Aussies. In each of two games Gabby scored two goals. A fifth game was cancelled because of Australian injuries. The Randolph Road family of Andrew and June Smyth, with Gabby's siblings Rachel 17 and Harley, 13, has been hanging on each bit of mail as they follow Gabby's adventure.
Gabby is no stranger to New Zealand. In fact Canadian-born Gabby, a student at Leaside High, is also a New Zealand citizen thanks to her dad, who came to Canada 20 years ago and subsequently married Gabby's mom. Rachel and Harley also own the Kiwi passport. What a nice extra for three young Canadians. As it was planned, Gabby temporarily put away her Leaside Wildcats jersey and suited up with the New Zealand U18 team for their face-off with the Australians. Mr Smyth is quoted in a hometown NZ online publication Dannivirke.net.nz as saying: "Three years ago I found out that New Zealand has ice hockey teams and that the Men's and Women's National teams ranked 35th and 25th in the world respectively. This really intrigued me, and got me to wondering……..could Gabby one day play for N.Z.". Dannivirke goes on to report that Gabby and Leaside Wildcat teammate Riley Smith competed earlier this year in the New Zealand Women's Nationals, which took place in Queenstown. They both played for the Dunedin (NZ) based team Southern Knights, Riley and Gabby, both getting "Player Of Game" Awards. Now its time for Gabby to fly home. But she will have the company on the trip of two lucky NZ pals who will train here with the Wildcats for a while. Facebook
Series Stats:
NZ 3 wins Australia 0 wins Game 1: 2-2 tie Game 2: 3-1 Game 3: 3-0 Game 4: 5-1 Game 5: Abandoned
The South Bayview Bulldog
Sunday 1st December 2013 2013 Dannevirke Christmas Parade The sun came out and so did the people for Dannevirke's Annual Christmas Parade on Saturday 30th November.Noon saw High Street lined with young and old to see the cavalcade of floats, vehicle's - from the old to the new - the bigggggg to the small and many people on foot dressed in a variety of costumes walking along High Street in the parade.As usual the Dannevirke Brass and Pipe Band participated in the parade and also our emergency service vehicles with blaring sirens. Santa and his reindeers took pride of place at the end of the parade as usual which bought smiles to many young children's faces to see the man in the red suit go by. Totara Collage won the Champion Float and Melissa Martin Academy Of Dance the Champion Children's Float. Check out all the parade action here >>> on Dannevirke NZ Facebook page.
Wednesday 27th November 2013Man burt in Dannevirke explosionDannevirke man was taken to Hutt Hospital with serious burns after an explosion powerful enough to lift the ceiling tore through his bedroom.
Tararua Detective Shane Brown said fire services were called to the Dagmar St house about 1pm yesterday after a buildup of gas from a number of LPG gas cylinders, the type generally used for camping, exploded in front of the 33-year-old man.
The force from the explosion blew the wardrobe door off its hinges, the window frame into the neighbour's yard, lifted the ceiling and disrupted roof tiles.
Police found four gas cylinders in his bedroom and more in another room of the house, but it was unclear what they were being used for.
The man's brother was also in the house at the time, and came running at the sound in time to see the injured man emerging from the bedroom on his way to the shower.
Together the pair used a garden hose to put out a fire around the bed in the room, just as fire services arrived.
The man suffered serious burns to his hands and face and was taken to Hutt Hospital by St John Ambulance staff.
Mr Brown said it was possible there had been a slow leak of the gas, or he had been using a canister for something prior to the explosion, which blew up after an ignition in the room.
The gas was the sort to stay low, rather than rise, so it was likely the man would have been able to smell a buildup of gas, he said.
A scene examination of the house was completed yesterday and police were investigating what the canisters were being used for.
WE ARE FAMILY: Never mind 'Packed to the Rafters', Dannevirke parents Vaughn and Dianne Barrow share a home with their 12 children, four sets of twins and four 'oddies'.Relevant offersSpecial allowances are common when you have four sets of twins and four "oddies" under one roof.
Dannevirke parents Vaughan and Diane Barrow never expected to have 12 children.
They also never imagined having eight of them in pairs, but they count each one as a blessing.
"Twelve kids to us, it just feels normal because that's what we've got," Diane Barrow said. "I grew up in a family of 16 so this feels little to me.
"It does get noisy at times but we've been lucky our twins have been boy and girls, so they balance each other out."
The Barrows have four sets of boy-girl twins aged 14 years, 8 years, 6 years and 4 years.
They also have four other children over the age of 10 years.
Diane Barrow said there was nothing in the water at their farm - it was a hereditary gene on her side.
"I didn't know I was going to have them because all 65 cousins hadn't had any until I did," she said. "None of my sisters have had them but they get nervous every time they get pregnant."
Vaughan Barrow said the house could be a bit of a zoo, especially at meal times, but it was homely.
"The first year was the hardest and the first lot was the breaking-in period," he said. "[Having more] just happened, the first set we didn't know until they were born, but the others we did.
"They each have their own talents, we call them the twins and the oddies."
Vaughan Barrow said certain accommodations had to be made for their super-sized family.
"We've got couches instead of chairs, and we obviously have a few bedrooms, which they share," he said. "We also have a dinner bell because if you send one out to tell the others, another would say they had never been told.
"We've put a false top on the table and rounded the edges so everyone fits, and we have a 15-seater van which we had to get an exemption for to drive because it was classified as a service vehicle."
Diane Barrow said living on a farm was helpful, as it gave the kids something to do, and they were able to live sustainably. "We grow some vegetables and do homekill," she said.
"We also have each of the older kids paired up with a younger one, which makes things so much easier, and I oversee the operation."
Manawatu Multiple Birth Club president TeRina Allan said there were about 35 member families from the catchment, including Taihape, Whanganui and Otaki.
"One baby is hard but when you've got to multiply it by two or three or more, it's very difficult and for some people they may be doing it on their own," she said.
"Knowing there is someone else in the same boat, knowing someone who has gone through it before is a really good resource."
Fairfax NZ
Wednesday 6th November 2013 Dannevirke's TV Takeback a great success
Dannevirke Host Lions, along with the Tararua District Council and Dannevirke Information Centre organised the collection of unwanted television sets FREE OF CHARGE.
Dannevirke Host Lions Club member Bob Dresser was contacted by a elderly resident concerned that she was unable to drop her telly off and if he could help, this got Bob thinking, she is not the only one and how can we can help the rest of the community with this issue. I put it to the Club said Bob at our last Lions meeting with everyone agreeing something should be done. After meeting with the Local Council, Recyling Co-ordinator Tracey Nikora and the Information Centre we were able to put together this TV collection event.
There was a flyer drop in Dannevirke and a notice on the Councils page in the Bush Telegragh where residents registered through the Information Centre leaving their details regrading the collection of their old TV's. The collection took place throughout the Dannevirke township on Sunday 3rd November between 12.30 and 3.30, with 12 vehicles, trailers along with more than 15 Lions members and their families who took to the streets of Dannevirke, locals responding well making this a huge success with over 600 televisions being collected on the day.
Waste & Recycling Co-ordinator Tracey Nikora said this was a mighty effort, and knowing that these TV's are being recycled is a good feeling. Tracey has visited Remarkit in Wellington who are one of the world's leading e-waste recycling organisations and getting a hands on to the process of recycling e-waste (Electronic Waste).
Most components in a set are recycled - Glass is recycled overseas into new products - Metals such as steel are melted down and made into new products such as construction material - Copper wire is removed and recycled in New Zealand along with Aluminum also recycled in New Zealand - Circuit boards are recycled overseas, the plastic backs from TV's at this stage cannot be recycled as they have flame retardants in them.
If you missed this collection and have a TV or two to discard the Dannevirke Transfer Station is still accepting them at no charge, but come this Friday 8th November will be the last day, after this it will be user pays. If you would like any more information on this please contact our Waste & Recycling Co-ordinator Tracey Nikora on (06) 374-4080.
New child restraint laws in effect
New laws for child seats in cars come into effect from today, but police will be taking an discretionary approach while parents get to grips with the new rules.
From today the mandatory use of child restraints in vehicles will be extended by two years, requiring all children to be correctly secured in an approved restraint until their seventh birthday.
If an approved restraint is available in the vehicle, it must be used until children turn eight, an increase of one year.
Approved child restraints include baby capsules, car seats and booster seats.
A police national headquarters spokesman said the new rules which would help to keep more children safe on the road.
"Staff will be using their discretion while the new law is introduced, with a strong focus on education.
"However, there will be no tolerance for people who put children's lives at risk by wilfully ignoring the law or failing to restrain a child where restraints are available."
New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) road safety director Ernst Zollner said child restraints used in New Zealand must display standards markings to show they are approved and safe to be used.
Baby on the Move Auckland franchise owner Kylie McCracken said they hadn't noticed a massive increase in sales while parents prepared for the law change.
Most parents were happy with the new rules, however it would be better if the law was based on height instead of age, she said.
Associate transport Minister Michael Woodhouse said the rule change was agreed by Cabinet in 2012 and signed in June this year.
"Increasing the age brings New Zealand more in line with international standards and aligns us with the rules in Australia and Japan."
Those who failed to safely secure a child were liable for a $150 fine for each child.
West Auckland mother Kirsty Mew said she bought capsule car seats for her two children Hunter, 4, and Charlotte, 7, when they were babies.
They then transitioned to car seats with help from a Plunket initiative, before moving onto booster seats.
Ms Mew said the law change was "great".
"Kids, they're only little, I don't think you can put a price on their life. If it makes it safer, then why not?"
The price shouldn't be a deterrent for parents when lay by, rental and charity options were available, she said.
Ms Mew estimated she had spent around $330 on child seats over the past seven years.
Plunket national child safety advisor Sue Campbell said some parents were eligible for child seat grants through Work and Income and Plunket ran a cheaper child seat rental programme for those on low incomes in some areas.
She also advised parents to shop around and search for cheaper options.
The cost of compliance:
* Capsule car seats: $70 to $400.
* Convertible car seats: $175 to $700
* Booster seats: $22 to $600
(Source: The Baby Factory/The Warehouse)
Museum on treasure huntAfter 25 years of gathering pieces of Dannevirke's heritage, the Gallery of History is still keen for more items to add to its collection.
The museum celebrated its 25th birthday last weekend, having been founded in the town's former courthouse in September 1988.
The museum was not like others around the country, in that it did not display works from far and wide, she said.
"It is a place for artefacts and stories and any pieces of memorabilia pertaining to Dannevirke and its history. Everything here is from the area."
Miss Mills said the museum was extremely full - "we've got three rooms full of memorabilia, and strongrooms full of written material" - but it was always good to see more goods.
"My plea to people is to please not throw anything away that you think might be of use. Give it to us and we will tell you if it is good or not."
The building the museum occupied was also part of the history of Dannevirke, she said.
Built in 1906, it served as the local courthouse until a new one was built on Gordon St.
After a fundraising campaign, the old courthouse became the Gallery of History.
Miss Mills said keeping the museum status required changing out exhibitions every six months.
At the moment, clothing gifted from the Gaisford family, owners of a huge estate which stretched from Dannevirke south to Kumeroa, is on display.
Tararua Free Insulation Scheme
An opportunity to make your house warmer, drier and more energy efficient – react now! The Government has announced the new project Warm up NZ (Tararua), which started on 1 September. Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (EECA), which administers Warm up New Zealand: Healthy Homes, will work in partnership with EnergySmart in the Tararua District. The free insulation scheme will run for three years and will be targeting low-income families, and those with illnesses that will be improved by having their homes insulated. Lyn Tankersley, Wairarapa and Tararua Branch Manager of EnergySmart, advises that to meet the criteria, occupants must hold a Community Services Card (CSC) or Gold card with CSC endorsement, or be at risk from health conditions relating to cold, damp housing. If you can get a letter of support from your GP or Health Nurse then this will be even better. Houses must be built before 2000 and there are also restrictions on the size of the homes. There are additional costs if the floor area is greater than 85 square metres, and if the floor and ceiling are both to be insulated. Government will fund 60% of the costs while the non-Government portion is being funded by Central Energy Trust in the southern Tararua, and MidCentral Health is sponsoring northern Tararua. EnergySmart will be focusing on getting the message out to landlords, who will be expected to make a small contribution to the cost of insulation of their rentals, when tenants are low-income and at higher health risk. With Government introducing Warrant of Fitness's for all rentals in New Zealand in the next few years, this is the time to get your rentals insulated. React now, send your referrals through and get your tenants, friends and family warmed up. For all enquiries, contact Lyn by email: email@example.com
Tuesday 10th September 2013 Tararua Sport Directory and Sports Event Calendar.
This is a great opportunity to further promote our local clubs, activity providers, events and sports facilities and it's FREE advertising to entice potential new club members!
The first stage is to collect information from all our local sports clubs and activity providers, namely you, then collate the information into a go to guide for all things sport in our community.
If you would like your club/group, sport or event listed in the 2014-15 Tararua Sport Directory and Sports Event Calendar, please click here to register on-line. Alternatively, complete the attached registration form and return it to me by Monday November 4, 2013.
Please spread the word and encourage others to register on-line or complete and return the attached registration form.
I am only a phone call or e-mail away if anyone has any questions.
If you require additional forms these will be available from all Tararua District Council offices and Bush Multisport Park.
Natarsha NikoraTararua Recreation Advisor, Sport Manawatu26 Gordon Street, Po Box 115, Dannevirke 494206 374 4136 Email email@example.com
Shield brings back memories.......
Shield Fever hit Dannevirke today bringing back memories especially for two locals. A large crowd of rugby fans gathered at the Dannevirke Sports Centre as Hawkes Bay Magpie players and the Ranfurly Shield took centre stage. Te Kura Kaupapa Maori O Tamaki Nui-A-Rua school childern along with the iwi welcomed them, fans grabbed every opportunity to get autographs and photos with Magpie players Dougie Edmonds and Adam Bradey and of course the prized Ranfurly Shield.
For Barry Scott and Graham McNair each having very fond memories of Hawkes Bay and winning the Ranfurly Shield for the first time. Barry's father George Scott was the Vice President of the HB Rugby Union when the shield was won in 1966. I remember this so well, like it was yesterday Barry said.We travelled to Hamilton - mooloo country you could of mistaken it for McLean Park as there was a sea of black n white supporters. Hepa Paewai and Jerry Stone both from Dannevirke played in this victorious match, Hepa was the star Barry said, a great win for the Magpies, winning 6-0. Returning back home to Dannevirke the Shield came back with us, spending a week on the farm at Coonoor and tagging along to Makuri School with the boys.
Graham's memories as a child were to one day play in that black and white strip and he did. Graham played front row prop from 1986 - 93, unlucky for him the shield was challenged but never came back to the bay in his playing carerer.
The Magpies have had many Dannevirke greats, and today we still have a local connection with players coming through, with this sucess - "Our Loyalty will Never Expire" Well done the Bay!!Click here for more photos on Dannevirke NZ Facebook pageDannevirke.net.nz
Repair of grandstand to cost $30,000
Tararua ratepayers may stump up $30,000 to repair the Dannevirke Domain grandstand, which is well below building code standards.
Tararua District councillors will debate at a meeting in Dannevirke to whether the grandstand should be strengthened.
Built in 1935, the grandstand has been declared an earthquake-prone building because it does not reach 34 per cent of the building code.
It was estimated to reach between 8 per cent and 15 per cent.
A seismic testing report from Beca engineering consultants gave the grandstand an E grade, meaning someone was 25 times more at risk than if they were in a building at 100 per cent compliance.
The report said strengthening work had been done before, but it was unclear when. The work consisted of a reinforced concrete frame and some columns at two corners of the building.
Councillors have been given three options - strengthen to about 34 per cent of the code, strengthen to 67 per cent of the code, or do nothing.
Not strengthening could see the grounds used less, the report said.
"This means [council] will still have fixed costs for maintaining the grounds, but likely to have significantly less usage."
Improving the grandstand to 34 per cent of code could cost up to $30,000.
Dannevirke Athletics and Harrier Club spokeswoman Lisa Galloway said the club used the grandstand for storing equipment and would be stuck without the space.
A cricket club also used the grandstand for storage, and would need to find somewhere else to store gear if the grandstand was not able to be used, she said.
While the grandstand could be prone to vandalism, she hoped it would be repaired.
"It would be a big blow for us if it did come down."
The Dannevirke Junior Football Club was looking at using the grounds and grandstand more in the future, chairman Barry Ellingham said.
He had asked the council if the grandstand was safe, but was unaware it was earthquake-prone.
In July, the Sanson grandstand was demolished after the Manawatu District Council decided it would not spend $465,000 rebuilding it.Fairfax NZ
Tuesday 27th March 2012 Precious feathers of extinct huia stolen
Two 123-year-old huia feathers worth up to $8000 each have been stolen from the back of a stuffed bird at a Dannevirke museum.
An expert has compared the incident to the theft of war medals from Waiouru's army museum.
The tail feathers were taken from one of two stuffed juvenile birds in a glass case some time last week, said Dannevirke Gallery of History volunteer Pat Mills.
"Someone's just prised open the front panel and grabbed two feathers. It's very sad," she said.
"We have informed police and advised a number of auction houses and antique dealers of the theft. We'd dearly love them back, but at the very least we'd like to thwart their sale by thieves."
The last live huia was seen in Tararua Range in 1907. The stolen feathers came off a pair of birds shot in Pohangina valley, north of Ashhurst, in 1889 and mounted for a local couple as a wedding gift.
The birds are owned by the local Galloway family, who had been told of their theft, Mrs Mills said.
The birds have been kept in a locked glass container in the museum for 25 years and had "definitely been our biggest drawcard".
They were noticed to be missing on Friday. A small group had visited the museum on Wednesday, but there were "no suspects as such", she said.
About 15 to 20 people a week visited the museum, which had no security systems. The items were not insured, she said.
In 2010, a feather similar to the stolen ones was sold for $8400 at Webb's Auction House in Auckland. At the time it was believed to be a world record for a bird feather. Several years ago a bald eagle feather sold in the United States for US$2800 (NZ$3433).
Huia feathers were traditionally used for adornment by chiefs, and attempts to slow the hunting of them began in the 1880s.
Colin Miskelly, curator of terrestrial vertebrates at Te Papa, said the theft was "an example of personal greed over the national value of intact species for future generations".
"At one level it's no different to the theft of medals from the Waiouru military museum."
While huia specimens were not uncommon, "it's very unusual to have bona fide provenance data like these ones. That saddens me even more that they've been degraded," Dr Miskelly said.
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Celebrate our local sporting talent with Dave Rennie
Waikato Chiefs coach, Dave Rennie, has been confirmed as the Visique Dannevirke & Pahiatua Optometrists guest speaker for the 2014 Tararua Sportsperson of the Year Awards.
Sport Manawatu's CEO, Trevor Shailer, is thrilled with Rennie's Appearance. "We're obviously thrilled to have such a high caliber speaker for the awards. His experience and knowledge of not only rugby, but sport, will be a benefit to all those who attend the awards," said Shailer. Dave Rennie, a former teacher, is the head coach of the Chiefs rugby union team in the Super Rugby competition. His first season as head coach began in the 2012 season in which he led the Chiefs to their first Super Rugby title. Rennie became the first first-year Super Rugby coach to win a Super Rugby title when he guided the Chiefs to a 37-6 win over the Sharks. He coached the Chiefs to their second straight Super Rugby title in the 2013 season, beating the Brumbies by 27-22.
Rennie was previously the coach of the Manawatu Turbos in the ITM Cup from 2005 to 2011. Under Rennie, the Turbos were Championship Runner-up in the 2011 ITM Cup. He was also coach of the New Zealand national under-20 rugby union team, under whom the team won three consecutive World titles from 2008 to 2010.
In addition to the awards, Rennie will be visiting Dannevirke High School to run a practical coaching session with their rugby teams. "We are so privileged to have someone of Mr Rennies calibre come to our school and we would like to thank Sport Manawatu and Courtenay at Visique Optometrists for making this possible", TIC Mat Ahern.
The awards, coordinated by Sport Manawatu, aim to celebrate the achievements of local sports teams, administrators/volunteers, coaches, officials, senior and junior sportspeople in the Tararua district.
Tickets are $45 each and are now on sale. Tickets include the awards ceremony, buffet dinner and the opportunity to hear from guest speaker Dave Rennie. "Sport Manawatu want to again thank Courtenay LeCheminant for the continued sponsorship from Visique Dannevirke & Pahiatua Optometrists of this year's awards guest speaker. It is great to have Dave at the awards to help celebrate the success of our local sportspeople."
"One of the many highlights of my job is being able to host the awards and show recognition to all those that have achieved in their chosen sport," says Shailer.
Voting for the Visique Dannevirke and Pahiatua Optometrists Personality of the Year is now open and can only be done online. So show your favourite sportsperson how much you value them and make your vote count by heading to sportmanawatu.org.nz/tspoty.
The awards will take place on Friday, October 17 at the Eketahuna Community Centre. Tickets for the 2014 Tararua Sportsperson of the Year Awards can be purchased from Tararua District Council Service Centres in Pahiatua, Dannevirke, Eketahuna and Woodville.