South Waikato District, Tokoroa

196 days ago

Betty’s demand for action on car park danger pays off

Libby Reporter from Waikato Local

A Hillcrest resident’s persistent demands for action after being bumped by a car driving out of the Hillcrest Medical Centre parking lot, have paid off.

It comes after Betty Clough was struck and ended up with her hands on the bonnet of the car in early May.

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197 days ago

Poll: What do you think about the Kōpū Marine Precinct?

Libby Reporter from Waikato Local

Estimated to inject almost $60 million into the local economy over 30 years, the Kōpū Marine Precinct has sailed into the doldrums with far less commercial interest than expected.

Almost a year after its official opening, two local maritime-based companies are making consistent use of the new … View more
Estimated to inject almost $60 million into the local economy over 30 years, the Kōpū Marine Precinct has sailed into the doldrums with far less commercial interest than expected.

Almost a year after its official opening, two local maritime-based companies are making consistent use of the new wharf, along with mussel farming operators, but councillors and business owners admit it’s not the thriving aquatic hub they’d hoped for.

What do you think about the Kōpū Marine Precinct? Tell us your reasons in the comments (adding NFP if you don't want your words used in print).

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What do you think about the Kōpū Marine Precinct?
  • 25% I support it
    25% Complete
  • 62.5% Good idea but doesn't seem to be working
    62.5% Complete
  • 12.5% Not a fan
    12.5% Complete
8 votes
197 days ago

Proud to be your Most Trusted Brand

The Team from Patrick Hogan Village

For the 11th time, you’ve voted us your Most Trusted Brand and that means the world to us.

Because trust this strong doesn’t happen by chance. One year? That’s nice. Ten years? That’s a perfect score. But eleven? That’s off the charts.

You feel it in the little things, like the … View more
For the 11th time, you’ve voted us your Most Trusted Brand and that means the world to us.

Because trust this strong doesn’t happen by chance. One year? That’s nice. Ten years? That’s a perfect score. But eleven? That’s off the charts.

You feel it in the little things, like the barista who knows your coffee order, the gardener who prunes your roses just right, and friends who feel like family.

That’s trust built over time, through shared experiences, thoughtful gestures and communities who care. It’s that feeling of trust that sets us apart.

Whether it’s your first visit or you call a village home, that feeling of trust is what sets us apart.

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197 days ago

Poll: Who is the 2025 Prospa Local Business Hero?

Prospa

Neighbourly members have spoken! We’re excited to announce the finalists for the National Prospa Local Business Hero competition, celebrating the most-loved local businesses across the country.

Have a read (click on their blue title to read the nomination) and vote for which business you think… View more
Neighbourly members have spoken! We’re excited to announce the finalists for the National Prospa Local Business Hero competition, celebrating the most-loved local businesses across the country.

Have a read (click on their blue title to read the nomination) and vote for which business you think should take the crown (and impressive prize pack!).

1) Robin Davis - Newcreation (Auckland)
Newcreation came to fruition to support their son’s leukaemia recovery, creating and selling beautiful artwork made from recycled materials. They also transform donated offcuts from local builders and businesses into meaningful creations and give them to the community for free, such as Mother’s Day decorations and stars for Matariki.

2) BFT Blockhouse Bay - Jess & Andy Hart (Auckland)
BFT Blockhouse Bay is a gym but has been described as a true community hub. The owners, Jess and Andy Hart, started as members themselves, so they understand what makes a great gym: a welcoming, supportive environment where mental and physical health are equally valued.

3) Settlers Way Country Store - Jackie Poole & Annie Blackmore (Northland)
Settlers Way Country Store is all about supporting local - selling locally made items, and locally-grown fresh produce that suit a wide range of tastes.
The owners, Jackie Poole & Annie Blackmore, get involved in community projects and run several of the local facebook pages helping keep the community connected.

4) Coronation Grill & Burger - Gaurav Kumar Arora (Waikato)
Coronation Grill and Burger Morrinsville is more than a local eatery, it’s a warm, welcoming hub known for both their hearty meals with fresh ingredients, and their warm hospitality. They love to support local events and their nomination reads ‘They’re a true hometown hero, and we’re lucky to have them.’

5) Robyn's Cottage - Robyn Parker (Bay of Plenty)
Robyn’s Cottage in Greerton, Tauranga is a vibrant haven for craft lovers, filled with threads, wool, patterns, and expert advice from the ever-helpful Robyn. Despite a tough year health-wise, she continues to brighten the community with her knowledge, embroidery services, and creative classes.

6) The Egg Project - Pip Chrystall (Manawatu - Wanganui Region)
Pip and the team from The Egg Project in Bainesse work tirelessly to collaborate with other farms and businesses to provide fresh farm to table eggs, milk, yoghurt, vegetables & other products with free delivery to your door. They help out with community-minded projects and their nomination says they are always cheerful and ready to help.

7) Sparkydaz Electrical & Security - Darren Evans (Hawkes Bay - Gisborne Region)
Sparky Daz Electrical and Security in Onekawa, Napier, stands out for their prompt, professional service and top-quality workmanship, no job too small. Darren and apprentice Kerrie go the extra mile every time.

8) Hire Smart / Smart Aggregates Quarry - Gareth Boyd, Grant Cudby & Grant McEwen (Taranaki)
Hire Smart / Smart Aggregates Quarry is a hardworking team with heart, going above and beyond for their community - from sponsoring local sports to quietly donating materials where needed. Their nominator wrote ‘Integrity is doing the right thing, even when no one is watching. That's how I feel about the amazing team’

9) Trade School Kitchen - Hannah Drew-Crawshaw & the Team (Wellington region)
Trade School Kitchen in Naenae serves incredible food and drinks, but their true impact lies in their belief that everyone has something to offer - regardless of their past or present challenges. They provide training, employment, and a strong sense of community to help open doors and create new opportunities.

10) Toastie Lords - Taylor Hamilton (Nelson-Marlborough region)
Taylor Hamilton and the Toastie Lords team in Picton have built a beloved toasted sandwich spot from the ground up. With mouth-watering toasties and warm service, they are now famous with locals and cruise ship visitors alike.

11) Catnap Cafe - Nate & Alyssa (Canterbury region)
Catnap Cafe is run by Nate and Alyssa serving drinks and sweet treats with the opportunity to hang out with some feline friends. Working alongside Cat Rescue Christchurch they have rescued and rehomed nearly 200 cats, including special needs felines giving them second chances at a loving home.

12) Rangiora Wool Shop - Katherine McLeod (Canterbury)
Rangiora Wool Shop, led by Katherine McLeod and her team, is a warm, welcoming haven where creativity and community come together. With deep knowledge (and the finest merino!) they bring people together with the joy of creating.

13) Otago Vacuum Tank Services Ltd - Tim and Courtney Giddens (Otago-Southland region)
Otago Vacuum Tank Services (OVTS), led by Tim and Courtney Giddens, provide exceptional service but they also go above and beyond with a smile. From providing fresh water during landslides to organizing fun community events and helping local clubs, they are always ready to support the West Harbour community.

14) Blacks Road Grocer - Christopher Wilson (Otago region)
Blacks Road Grocer in Dunedin is a beloved local gem blending historic charm with a welcoming atmosphere. They offer house-made café treats, fresh local produce, and quality groceries, all served with friendly, attentive service.

Who is the 2025 Prospa Local Business Hero?
  • 6% 1) Robin Davis - Newcreation
    6% Complete
  • 3.2% 2) BFT Blockhouse Bay - Jess & Andy Har
    3.2% Complete
  • 3% 3) Settlers Way Country Store - Jackie Poole & Annie Blackmore
    3% Complete
  • 4.9% 4) Coronation Grill & Burger - Gaurav Kumar Arora
    4.9% Complete
  • 3.1% 5) Robyn's Cottage - Robyn Parker
    3.1% Complete
  • 25.7% 6) The Egg Project - Pip Chrystall
    25.7% Complete
  • 1.5% 7) Sparkydaz Electrical & Security - Darren Evans
    1.5% Complete
  • 1.8% 8) Hire Smart - Gareth Boyd
    1.8% Complete
  • 9.6% 9) Trade School Kitchen - Hannah & the Team
    9.6% Complete
  • 2.7% 10) Toastie Lords - Taylor Hamilton
    2.7% Complete
  • 27.2% 11) Catnap Cafe - Nate & Alyssa
    27.2% Complete
  • 9.2% 12) Rangiora Wool Shop - Katherine McLeod
    9.2% Complete
  • 0.8% 13) Otago Vacuum Tank Services Ltd - Tim and Courtney Giddens
    0.8% Complete
  • 1.3% 14) Blacks Road Grocer - Christopher Wilson
    1.3% Complete
1578 votes
198 days ago

Short play festival, MATAMATA

Robin from Matamata

Matamata Dramatic Society’s popular Short & Sweet Festival. Showcasing 6 x winning 10-minute plays, written by locals. Tickets via www.mds.org.nz...

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198 days ago

“The Tavern” - locally made film

Robin from Matamata

Matt Hicks has done it again! Come see his latest film for one night only in Matamata. Friday June 6th, 7.30pm. Tickets via www.mds.org.nz...

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201 days ago

Poll: What do you think the speed limit here should be?

Libby Reporter from Waikato Local

Councillors have unanimously agreed to defer a decision on whether a controversial stretch of Cobham Dr should stay at 60kph or revert to 80kph.

The deferral by members of panel to a full council meeting on 26 June was so a bigger group of councillors could make the decision. A breather would … View more
Councillors have unanimously agreed to defer a decision on whether a controversial stretch of Cobham Dr should stay at 60kph or revert to 80kph.

The deferral by members of panel to a full council meeting on 26 June was so a bigger group of councillors could make the decision. A breather would also hopefully allow councillors to take account of a similar decision from NZ Transport Agency for an adjoining Cobham Dr stretch of SH1C.

What do you think the speed limit here should be? Tell us your reasons in the comments (adding NFP if you don't want your words used in print).

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What do you think the speed limit here should be?
  • 45.2% Keep it at 60kph
    45.2% Complete
  • 54.8% Go back to 80kph
    54.8% Complete
  • 0% Something else (explain in the comments)
    0% Complete
42 votes
200 days ago

Poll: Do you think Taupō needs a new bridge?

Libby Reporter from Waikato Local

Taupō will get a new bridge over the Waikato River, but just when, where, how much it will cost and who will pay is yet to be decided.

Taupō District councillors, and a few members of the public, were given … View more
Taupō will get a new bridge over the Waikato River, but just when, where, how much it will cost and who will pay is yet to be decided.

Taupō District councillors, and a few members of the public, were given a “high level” update on possible plans for what’s called the Northern Access Project, which could replace, complement or expand on the two-laned Control Gates Bridge, which is already at capacity.

Do you think Taupō needs a new bridge? Tell us your reasons in the comments (adding NFP if you don't want your words used in print).

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Do you think Taupō needs a new bridge?
  • 0% Yes
    0% Complete
  • 0% No
    0% Complete
0 votes
200 days ago

Filling the gaps others don’t reach

The Team from Momentum Waikato

The financial challenges involved in organising volunteer conservation work led a Hamilton couple to set up a philanthropic investment fund to fill the funding gaps faced by the region’s nature groups.

Selwyn and Dianne June first established the Waikato Hauraki Conservation Fund at Momentum … View more
The financial challenges involved in organising volunteer conservation work led a Hamilton couple to set up a philanthropic investment fund to fill the funding gaps faced by the region’s nature groups.

Selwyn and Dianne June first established the Waikato Hauraki Conservation Fund at Momentum Waikato with a significant donation in late 2021, which was during the Covid pandemic, so they only started grantmaking and promoting it to environmental networks in late 2023.

Five conservation projects around the Waikato benefited from those first grants - Kakepuku Mountain Conservation Society for trap refills and bait; Rings Beach Wetland Group Inc for possum, mustelid and rat traps; Kaitiakitanga Charitable Trust for engaging youth on pest control and riparian planting projects; Roselle Gould for predator traps near a stream and wetland at Whangamata; and Holthuizer Farm near Walton for riparian planting.

The Junes’ intent is to provide a long-term funding source for conservation work anywhere in the wider Waikato region, that the public can support with donations.

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200 days ago

Do you have a favourite among the winners?

Libby Reporter from Waikato Local

A pūriri tree hideaway in Raglan, a super-energy efficient home in Cambridge, and a space that’s a mix of Pākeha modernism and te ao Māori are all winners in this year’s Waikato/Bay of Plenty architectural awards.

Twelve ‘stunning’ residential projects were recognised, along with … View more
A pūriri tree hideaway in Raglan, a super-energy efficient home in Cambridge, and a space that’s a mix of Pākeha modernism and te ao Māori are all winners in this year’s Waikato/Bay of Plenty architectural awards.

Twelve ‘stunning’ residential projects were recognised, along with another 14 that spanned commercial, public, educational, urban design and interior architecture, in the region’s Te Kāhui Whaihanga New Zealand Institute of Architects’ Awards this year.

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200 days ago

Transport rates debate splits Waikato regional councillors

Libby Reporter from Waikato Local

Regional councillors were accused of ‘not listening to the community’, during debates over transport rates.

Waikato Regional Council voted to keep public transport rates the same in Hamilton, and to not return a $2.545 million surplus to ratepayers, in Tuesday’s annual plan deliberations.

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T
201 days ago

Avanti Explorer E Bike

Teresa & Graeme from Whitianga

M/L Frame 4,300 K’s Very good condition and serviced regularly. Bosch motor and Shimano gears. Very comfortable to ride

Price: $1,650

201 days ago

Resene Wallpaper sale now on

Resene

Get 25% off Resene wallpapers at your local Resene ColorShop.

Come in and choose from a huge range of designs from bold and beautiful to classic and elegant. From eye-popping patterns, hand-drawn illustrations, blooming botanicals and multi-coloured designs to bold geometrics, faux effects, … View more
Get 25% off Resene wallpapers at your local Resene ColorShop.

Come in and choose from a huge range of designs from bold and beautiful to classic and elegant. From eye-popping patterns, hand-drawn illustrations, blooming botanicals and multi-coloured designs to bold geometrics, faux effects, classic styles, murals and contemporary luxury, there’s something to suit all tastes.

View the samples instore to see their true colour, design and beauty.
Find out more

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202 days ago

Emergency Mobile Alert Test

The Team from New Zealand Police

NZ Civil Defence are testing the Emergency Mobile Alert (EMA) system on Sunday 25 May, between 6-7pm ⚠️📲

If you have a hidden second phone for your safety, we recommend turning it off or putting it in flight mode for the duration of the test (6-7pm on Sunday 25 May) to ensure it’s not … View more
NZ Civil Defence are testing the Emergency Mobile Alert (EMA) system on Sunday 25 May, between 6-7pm ⚠️📲

If you have a hidden second phone for your safety, we recommend turning it off or putting it in flight mode for the duration of the test (6-7pm on Sunday 25 May) to ensure it’s not discovered when the nationwide Emergency Mobile Alert is sent.

Some mobile devices set to silent mode will still emit a sound when the Emergency Mobile Alert test is sent, so switching to flight mode or turning off your device is the only way to avoid the loud sound of the alert.

You can find more information about the Emergency Mobile Alert system, including a factsheet and list of FAQs at www.getready.co.nz

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203 days ago

Poll: What do you think about Taupō's dino sculpture?

Libby Reporter from Waikato Local

A long-necked dinosaur sculpture sitting atop a large geometric rock is the latest attraction in Taupō.

But locals aren't loving it with some people on social media slamming it as “disgusting” and “ugly”.

What do you think about Taupō's dino sculpture? Tell us your reasons… View more
A long-necked dinosaur sculpture sitting atop a large geometric rock is the latest attraction in Taupō.

But locals aren't loving it with some people on social media slamming it as “disgusting” and “ugly”.

What do you think about Taupō's dino sculpture? Tell us your reasons in the comments (adding NFP if you don't want your words used in print).

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What do you think about Taupō's dino sculpture?
  • 0% I like it
    0% Complete
  • 0% Not a fan
    0% Complete
  • 0% Don't mind it but don't like the cost
    0% Complete
  • 0% Other (explain in the comments)
    0% Complete
0 votes
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