The previous Labour-led government in 2020 dropped speeds from 100km/h to 80km/h on SH1 south of the Horowhenua town and on SH57 near the town, past the old Kimberley Centre, a psychiatric institution.

Now, a large retirement village, Speldhurst, has its main entrance on that stretch of road, where motorists between Wellington and Manawatū avoid going through Levin.

The drop to 80km/h was reversed last year, as the current government upped speeds on many sections of highway that were previously lowered.

Now, NZTA has undertaken public consultation on a reversal to 80km/h for the roads near Levin, saying it was doing so due to community concerns.

Consultation closed on 9 April and transport agency regional relationships director Linda Stewart said it received about 800 submissions for the proposed SH57 change and 600 for the proposed SH1 change, between Ōhau and Manakau.

It was too early to say which option the submissions favoured.

“We are currently analysing the submissions and will announce a decision in the coming months,” Stewart said. “The decision will consider community feedback alongside technical assessments, crash history and a cost-benefit analysis.”

Stewart said consultation was an essential part of the decision-making process.

Speldhurst residents committee chairman Roger Parton said many of the submissions about SH57 might have come from the village’s 720 residents.

“I’ve been whipping them along,” he said.

There had been one fatal crash on the stretch of highway since speed limits went back up, after there were none in the five years of the lower speed limit.

Parton said there were also several near misses, making residents entering or leaving the village nervous. Some waiting to turn right into the driveway had even reported getting overtaken by fast-moving vehicles.

“They go out there with some trepidation, because they don’t know what’s coming.”

Horowhenua Mayor Bernie Wanden and the local council last year campaigned to keep the speeds at 80km/h, although most submissions then were in favour of the rise.

Story by Jimmy Ellingham

The Solid Waste Bylaw sets the framework for how waste is collected, transported, disposed of, and managed across the district. It supports safe and efficient waste services while encouraging the reduction of waste sent to landfill, helping to protect public health and the environment.

Consultation opens on Monday 4 May 2026 and closes at 4pm on Friday 29 May 2026.

The current Solid Waste Bylaw is due to lapse in July 2026. Renewing the bylaw is important to ensure continuity of waste services and enable appropriate enforcement across the district.

At this stage, Council is not proposing any changes. Instead, the proposal is to carry over the existing Solid Waste Bylaw 2014, updated to align with a new template.

A broader review of waste services is planned as part of the Long Term Plan 2027, which will include further public consultation. Depending on the outcomes of that future review, the bylaw may need to be updated at that time.

We are legally required to consult on keeping the Solid Waste Bylaw 2014 unchanged. This means a valid bylaw stays in place while we continue to work on the 2027 Long Term Plan and any future waste service decisions.

Renewing the bylaw now provides certainty and continuity for the community, while allowing time for a more comprehensive discussion about waste and recycling services in the future.

Find out more

For more information and to have your say, visit letskorero.horowhenua.govt.nz/proposedsolidwastebylaw2026

The civic building, opened in 2007, is a significant council asset and requires renewal of key building elements to maintain full weathertightness and prevent further deterioration.

Work will focus on repairing and renewing parts of the roof system, including: 

• Replacement of membrane roofing over the building foyer
• Renewal of tiled balconies that also serve as roofing over basement car parking and office areas
• Associated flashing and fixing works.

Following completion of the roof remediation, internal repairs will be carried out in affected public areas, particularly near the public toilets, where previous water got in, damaged wall linings and caused corrosion to steel framing. 

Council confirms the civic building will remain open to the public throughout this work, with safety measures in place during scaffolding and construction activity. 

Running alongside this work, will be a full replacement of the building’s Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system. The existing system has exceeded its typical service life and no longer meets performance or efficiency standards. 

The system upgrade will

• Replace the outdoor units with a hybrid system that can adapt to future refrigerant changes
• Install new indoor ceiling units and pipework
• Be better for the environment

We’re working with contractors to carefully plan this stage of work, with a focus on minimising impacts on customers and kaimahi as we undertake this important mahi. The two projects will overlap, with final completion expected late 2026. 

“These works are about protecting a long-term asset, reducing future maintenance risk, and ensuring the Civic Building remains safe, and fit for purpose for our community,” says Chief Executive Monique Davidson. 

Further updates will be provided as each stage progresses.

BNI ambassador Oliver Corby says the BNI Horowhenua Discovery evening is an ideal opportunity for business owners to join this highly successful model.

“We invite all businesses to come along. The Discovery Meeting is free and catered and there are excellent speakers.”

Corby says there are four thriving BNI chapters in Kāpiti and five in Palmerston North so Horowhenua is the logical place for growth and he is expecting membership interest from those areas as well.

“We already have 20 local businesses committed to joining a new chapter and the Discovery Evening will be a relaxed, informative evening hosted by BNI New Zealand’s National Trainer Monique Bradley, joined by keynote speakers.

Most BNI Chapters hold weekly breakfast meetings starting at 7am however Corby says this is someting the members of the new chapter will decide.

“One aspect of starting a new BNI chapter is the great level of support available, not just from the region and nationally but internationally as well. This is a fantastic way to network your business,” says Corby.

When: Wed, 6 May, 5:30pm – 7pm

Where: Te Takeretanga o Kura-hau-pō (Levin Community Centre)Levin.

A bit more about BNI

Are you a business owner in Horowhenua, Kāpiti, or the Manawatū looking for more customers, more referrals, and a stronger local network?

BNI Horowhenua is launching – and you’re invited to our free Discovery Evening to see what it’s all about.

What is BNI?

BNI (Business Network International) is the world’s largest and most successful business referral network. Members meet weekly to build genuine relationships, share qualified referrals, and help each other grow – all built on the philosophy of Givers Gain®.

With over 3,300+ members across New Zealand and thousands more in 70+ countries, BNI gives business owners a structured way to grow through trusted word-of-mouth. Now, BNI New Zealand is bringing a chapter to the heart of Horowhenua – perfectly positioned to serve business owners across the wider region.

What happens at a Discovery Evening?

This is a relaxed, informative evening hosted by BNI New Zealand’s National Trainer Monique Bradley, joined by keynote speakers. You’ll:

• Learn how BNI works and why it delivers real results
• Hear from experienced BNI members about the impact on their businesses
• Experience speed networking and other hands-on BNI activities
• Meet other local business owners, tradespeople, and professionals
• Find out how to become a founding member of BNI Horowhenua

Who should attend?

Any business owner, sole trader, or professional based in Horowhenua, Kāpiti, or the Manawatū who wants to grow their business through trusted, word-of-mouth referrals. Whether you’re well-established or just getting started – this is for you.

Event details

• Date: Wednesday 6 May 2026
• Time: 5:30 PM – 7:00 PM
• Venue: Open Meeting Room at Te Takeretanga o Kura-hau-po (Levin Community Centre), Levin
• Cost: FREE
• Catering: Full catering provided – food platters, tea & coffee

Places are limited – register now to secure your spot.

To Register see: https://events.humanitix.com/bni-horowhenua-discovery

MetService has issued a Heavy Rain Watch for Horowhenua, with forecasts indicating two weather systems will affect the region – one moving up from the south today, followed by a second system from the north overnight.

These systems are expected to be slow-moving, with periods of high-intensity rainfall and the potential for thunderstorms and localised downpours.

While Horowhenua currently sits under a lower-level watch, conditions in surrounding areas are more severe, with a Red Warning in place for Wellington and an Orange Warning for the Tararua Range.

What this means for Horowhenua

Council is particularly mindful of the volume of rain forecast for the Tararua Range. Current modelling suggests 200-250mm could fall in some areas. If this rainfall tracks further west, it could increase the risk of river rises, localised flooding, and slips within Horowhenua.

Council preparations underway

Council has activated a duty manager approach and is monitoring conditions around the clock through to Wednesday.

Contractors, emergency services, and partner agencies are engaged and ready to respond if required. An Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) is on standby and will be activated if conditions escalate.

As a precaution, Kimberley Reserve has been closed.

There is also the potential for the Moutoa floodgates to be operated tomorrow if required.

When to expect impacts

The first period of heavier rain is expected around midnight, with another potential peak between 6am and 7am tomorrow morning. Forecasts will be updated again by MetService at 9pm this evening.

What residents should do

Residents are encouraged to stay informed and take simple precautions:

• Clear gutters and drains around your property
• Secure loose outdoor items
• Avoid driving through floodwater
• Keep an eye on rising water levels in streams and drains
• Stay up to date with official weather forecasts and Council channels

Stay informed

This is a complex and evolving weather event, and conditions may change quickly. Council will provide updates as more information becomes available.

Anzac Day remains one of New Zealand’s most significant days of remembrance. It is a time to reflect on the courage, service and loss connected to war, and to honour returned and current New Zealand Defence Force personnel.

A range of dawn, civic and retreat services will be held across the district, with commemorations taking place in Foxton, Levin, Manakau, Moutoa, Ōhau, Shannon, Tokomaru and Waitārere Beach.

Mayor Bernie Wanden says Anzac Day continues to hold deep meaning for communities across Horowhenua.

“Anzac Day gives us the chance to stop, reflect and remember those who served our country, and those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

“It is also an opportunity for people of all ages to come together as a community, pay their respects and acknowledge the lasting impact of service across generations.”

People are encouraged to attend a local service and take part in this year’s commemorations.

Anzac Day observances in Horowhenua on Saturday 25 April 2026

Foxton 28th Māori Battalion Service

5.45am – Head to cenotaph for Foxton Dawn Service
6.30am – Service at St John’s Methodist Church, Avenue Road, following the Dawn Service

Foxton Dawn Service

5.30am – Assemble on Clyde Street, outside Foxton Memorial Hall
5.45am – Parade moves off to Cenotaph
6.00am – Cenotaph Service begins
Wet weather alternative: Service will take place in Foxton Memorial Hall

Foxton Civic Ceremony

9.00am – Te Awahou Nieuwe Stroom, Main Street
9.35am – Parade assembles on Wharf Street and moves off to Cenotaph
9.40am – Cenotaph Service begins
Wet weather alternative: Ceremony will take place inside Te Awahou Nieuwe Stroom

Levin Dawn Service

5.45am – Assemble on the corner of Kent and Winchester Streets
6.00am – Parade moves off to Cenotaph
6.15am – Cenotaph Service begins
6.45am – Return parade down Kent Street
Wet weather alternative: Service will take place at Levin RSA

Levin Civic Ceremony

10.00am – Parade assembles on Kent Street, past Thompson House Gardens
10.10am – Parade moves off to Cenotaph
10.15am – Cenotaph Service begins
Wet weather alternative: Ceremony will take place in Te Takeretanga o Kura-hau-pō

Levin Retreat Ceremonies

4.45pm – The Avenue Cemetery
5.15pm – Tiro Tiro Road Cemetery

Manakau Special Memorial Service

7.20am – Assemble outside Manakau Hall to march to the War Memorial in Honi Taipua Street

Moutoa Civic Ceremony

9.00am – Moutoa Memorial Gates, Foxton-Shannon Road

Ōhau Civic Ceremony

3.00pm – Formal reflections and acknowledgement of Anzac Day at Ōhau Community Hall
3.30pm – Tea, coffee and Anzac biscuits, all welcome

Shannon Civic Ceremony

11.15am – Parade assembles at the corner of Vance Street and Plimmer Terrace
11.25am – Parade moves off to Cenotaph
11.30am – Cenotaph Service begins

Wet weather alternative: Ceremony will take place in Shannon Memorial Hall

Tokomaru Civic Ceremony

10.00am – RSA and Country Club, Matipo Street

Waitārere Beach Civic Ceremony

8.30am – Tea and coffee at Waitārere Beach Bowling Club, Park Avenue
9.00am – Service begins

Road closures

Some temporary road closures will be in place to support the safety of participants and the public during parades and services. People are asked to follow signage and allow a little extra time when travelling on the day.

Wet Weather contingency

If bad weather is forecast, ceremonies will move indoors where possible. Any venue changes will be announced on Council’s Facebook page (@HorowhenuaDC) on the morning of Anzac Day.

Lest we forget.

The organisation is owned by the three councils, which will continue to manage water services until Central Districts Water begins full operations on 1 July 2027.

Board connects with staff and councils

The newly appointed Board of independent directors was formally welcomed with a pōwhiri in Palmerston North last Wednesday, hosted by representatives from Nga Tapūwae o Hau, which is a rōpū (working group) formed by the collective iwi across the three council regions to represent them.

They have three representatives sitting on the shareholders committee alongside representatives of the three shareholder councils.

Following the welcome, Board members joined a workshop with elected members where they heard more about the development of the Statement of Expectations, the key document outlining what councils expect of Central Districts Water, and received an update on the planned transfer of debt next year.

On Thursday, the Board travelled across the three districts to meet with staff working in, and supporting, water services.

Central Districts Water Board Chair, Hon Steve Maharey, said the visits were an important opportunity to build understanding early.

“It’s important to the Board that we understand the unique features of each of the three council areas,” Mr Maharey said.

“Central Districts Water will need to support large urban centres like Palmerston North, the coastal communities of Horowhenua, and the rural areas of Rangitīkei. Getting out early to meet staff and elected members has been a valuable opportunity to listen and learn, and to build a strong understanding before decisions are made.”

The Board will now meet monthly as the transition of services to Central Districts Water begins.

Transition Director Chris Dyhrberg said Central Districts Water has also taken a significant step forward with its registration as a company.

“This is a requirement under the Government’s Local Water Done Well legislation and formally establishes the organisation as a legal entity. It enables Central Districts Water to begin putting in place the people, systems and financial arrangements needed to operate, and marks the start of the transition toward taking on responsibility for water services over time.”

He said the transition team, which includes staff from Horowhenua District Council, Palmerston North City Council, and Rangitīkei District Council, is working together to ensure local priorities are reflected in the new organisation.

“We have strong momentum, and the establishment team is working collaboratively to build an organisation that will deliver high-quality water services while reflecting the needs and character of each local community.”

With the Board now in place, its immediate focus is recruiting and appointing a Chief Executive. The recruitment process is now underway.

Pictured below: Members of the Central Districts Water board at the Pōwhiri.

About Central Districts Water

Central Districts Water is a council-controlled organisation being established by Horowhenua District Council, Palmerston North City Council, and Rangitīkei District Council to deliver drinking water, wastewater, and stormwater services across the three districts.

The organisation will be responsible for managing, maintaining, and investing in water infrastructure to ensure safe, reliable, and sustainable services for communities now and into the future.

Figures released by Stats NZ in February showed that the unemployment rate for 15 to 24-year-olds across New Zealand was at 16.5 percent, three times higher than the overall unemployment rate.

Mayor Bernie Wanden says across Horowhenua there are young people and jobseekers who want to work, contribute and build a future for themselves and their whānau, but who sometimes need the right support to take that next step.

“In every corner of Horowhenua there are young people and jobseekers who want to contribute, who want to work, and who want to build a future for themselves and their whānau,” Mayor Wanden says. “Often, what makes the difference is someone backing them, building their confidence, and helping open the door.”

Mayor Wanden says that what makes Mayors Taskforce for Jobs so special, is the unique way in which the team can support our job seekers. “Whether that be needing support to get the right gear to do the job, or a license that sets you up for success, that’s the true gold of this programme.”

Kereana Leith, MTFJ Community Employment Connector says the Mayors Taskforce for Jobs Community Employment Programme demonstrates the power of community‑led local solutions to address employment challenges, particularly for young people aged 16 to 24. Delivered at a grassroots level, the programme provides one‑on‑one support for jobseekers, helping them prepare for work and move into roles that are meaningful and sustainable. At the same time, it works directly with employers to understand their needs and support them to connect with local people.

With many people across the wider region facing growing financial pressure and barriers to employment, this local, community-led approach continues to play an important role in connecting young people with practical support, local employers and pathways into meaningful work.

“The Mayors Taskforce for Jobs recognises that one size doesn’t fit all,” says Kereana. “By working locally and in partnership with central government, councils and communities can tailor solutions that reflect the realities on the ground.”

The programme is designed to support both sides of the employment relationship.

Tyson Jones, Work Ready Champion says “This is about supporting people into work, but it’s also about supporting employers. When local businesses hire through this programme, they are not just filling a vacancy. They are investing in someone’s confidence, capability and future, while helping build a stronger local workforce.”

Local employers are encouraged to get in touch if they are looking for employees or want to understand how the programme can support their business. People who are looking for work, training or a new opportunity are also encouraged to reach out.

“If you are an employer looking for your next team member, we want to hear from you. And if you are someone looking for work or needing support to take that next step, we are here to help. This programme is about backing our people and backing our community” adds Tyson.

In May 2024, the Community Employment Programme reached a significant national milestone, with more than 6,000 predominantly young people placed into work across rural and provincial Aotearoa since early 2020. During the 2023/24 year alone, 1,404 people benefitted from the programme, exceeding the 1,111 outcomes it was contracted to deliver.

The Mayors Taskforce for Jobs is a nationwide movement of mayors committed to ensuring all young people are engaged in employment, education or training within their communities. For more information, visit the Mayors Taskforce for Jobs section, email mtfj@horowhenua.govt.nz or free phone 0800 944 994.

This inquiry follows the last two annual reviews of FENZ, and the extra Select Committee hearing with FENZ two weeks ago, all of which raised serious questions.

“I stand by our firefighters. That’s why I wrote to the Select Committee and moved a motion asking for an inquiry and I’m pleased all members have agreed,” says Costley.

“I am increasingly concerned by the fleet issues within FENZ that continue to provide more questions than answers, and by the confusing and contradictory nature of those answers.

“I receive daily messages from firefighters about fire trucks breaking down or not being available when needed. While there are a range of issues that have been raised more broadly around FENZ, the most consistent that has arisen on every occasion is that of FENZ’ fleet (fire trucks).

Costley says it is important that we get timely and accurate answers about what is happening with their trucks, the delays and breakdowns, and how long it will be before all current trucks are on the road.

“The impact of failures in this space is one that impacts every community in New Zealand, whether those areas have volunteer or paid staff, high-rise or low-rise, urban or rural.

“Our firefighters do an amazing job risking their lives to help New Zealanders in need – and I fully back them. What is important is that they have the necessary support from their leadership to effectively carry out their duties. This enquiry will provide the answers that every community and firefighter deserves,” says Costley.

The inquiry will be held over the coming months, gathering evidence through public submissions, hearings, and stakeholder consultations. The final report will deliver recommendations to Parliament.

Held at Te Awahou Riverside Cultural Park from 8.30am to 3pm, the free family event will kick off New Zealand Dutch Week and bring Foxton to life with colour, music, games, food and plenty of Dutch flair.

Get ready to grab something orange and head to Foxton. The much-loved Big Dutch Day Out is back on Saturday 18 April 2026 – with a vibrant celebration of Dutch culture, community and fun for all ages.

One of the day’s most popular highlights is the famous Orange Bike Ride, with registrations opening at 8.30am and the ride getting underway at 9am. People are encouraged to dress themselves, and their bikes, in orange and join the fun as they roll through town in a sea of colour.

Visitors can also enjoy traditional Dutch games, dress up in Dutch costume, soak up the lively sounds of Amsterdam street music, and tuck into Dutch favourites like croquettes and fries. A visit to the iconic De Molen Windmill and Oranjehof Dutch Connection Centre is also a must, with plenty of opportunities to discover the stories of Dutch migrants who made Aotearoa New Zealand their home.

Foxton Windmill Trust Chair Judy Sanson says Big Dutch Day Out is a celebration of heritage, community and connection. 

“While De Molen is a symbol of Dutch heritage, it is also a symbol of how community and cultures came together to build an iconic working heritage building right here in Foxton.

“It brings tens of thousands of visitors to town each year and creates a positive impact for our local business and tourism community, while also sharing Dutch culture and history with visitors from near and far.

“There is a real sense that this event is gezellig. It is a Dutch word that describes a warm, cosy, friendly atmosphere where people feel welcome, enjoy being together and have fun. It is about connection, comfort and sharing a good time, and that is exactly what Big Dutch Day Out is all about.

“Any profit from Big Dutch Day Out will go towards the maintenance fund for the blades on De Molen. With the salt-laden winds here in Foxton, maintenance is needed from time to time to help make sure the windmill continues to operate well into the future.”

Mayor Bernie Wanden says Big Dutch Day Out is one of those special events that has something for everyone. 

“From the famous Orange Bike Ride to the music, food and family fun, it is a fantastic way to experience Foxton’s unique Dutch heritage and enjoy a great day out together.”

“Events like this help bring communities together, celebrate what makes places like Foxton Special and create the kind of connection and vibrancy that supports community wellbeing.”

“If you have never been before, this is the year to get along to Foxton, wear orange and be part of the fun.”

This year’s event will also include the launch of New Zealand Dutch Week, with Netherlands Ambassador Ard van der Vorst attending.

Event details
Date: Saturday 18 April 2026
Time: 8.30am to 3pm
Where: Te Awahou Riverside Cultural Park, Foxton
Entry: Free

For more information, visit teawahou.com/Whats-On