What role did 'legacy issues' play in the NZMCA Hawke's Bay committee's dismissal?

The dismissed committee claimed to have inherited 'legacy issues' and sought advice on handling them. however, the specifics of these issues remain undisclosed, and the board felt the approach taken in addressing them was inappropriate.

What is the NZMCA's role in local area committees?

The NZMCA envisions local area committees as hubs for social engagement, running rallies, and fostering camaraderie among members, not for political activities.

What was the content of the letter that led to the dismissal of the NZMCA Hawke's Bay committee?

The letter, written by the committee chairman, criticized the previous Hawke's Bay committee and was interpreted by the national board as an aggressive attack on former members.The letter's contents have not been publicly released.

The NZMCA, or New zealand Motor Caravan Association, is an organization for recreational vehicle users in New Zealand. The NZMCA provides resources, support, and community for motorhome and caravan enthusiasts.

Tag:

Zealand

Q: Why was the NZMCA Hawke's Bay committee dismissed?

The NZMCA national board dismissed the Hawke's Bay committee due to a letter written by the chairman, which the board deemed 'unacceptable' in tone and overly critical of previous committee members.

Q: What happens to NZMCA activities in Hawke's Bay now that the committee is dismissed?

All planned NZMCA activities in the Hawke's Bay region have been canceled until a new committee is formed.

World

Auckland police officer Abby Sturgin named Miss Universe New Zealand 2025

by Lucas Fernandez July 5, 2025

written by Lucas Fernandez

New Zealand Police Officer Crowned Miss Universe NZ

In a dazzling turn of events, a frontline police officer, **Sturgin**, has been crowned Miss Universe New Zealand, capturing hearts and sparking conversations nationwide.

A Platform for Change

**Sturgin**, a dedicated officer with over three years on the force, intends to leverage her newfound platform to advocate for causes close to her heart, including family violence awareness. She stated, “I want them to think – wow, that’s so cool. She’s a police officer and she can wear 6-inch heels and a really beautiful gown.”

Social Media Buzz

News of **Sturgin’s** victory has spread like wildfire, with social media users expressing their support and admiration. One commenter wrote on Facebook that she is, “A real life 007 Bond girl.”

Another commenter added, “Gosh what an amazing woman, best wishes you are gorgeous, and do an amazing job for this country says a lot about who you are as a person behind the beautiful face.”

In 2024, **Victoria Velasquez Vincent** won Miss Universe New Zealand. Photo / Miss Universe New Zealand

A Journey of Self-Discovery

**Sturgin** shared a photo on her Instagram account from her first beauty pageant at age 18 in 2015. The caption stated that she “was figuring herself out and didn’t think she was good enough to be or do anything. She was told she would go nowhere in life. What she didn’t know was that this pageant would change her life and dreams for the better,”

In 2017, **Sturgin** was crowned Miss Earth New Zealand. According to the New Zealand Family Violence Clearinghouse, police attended to a family violence incident every four minutes in 2023 (NZFVC.org.nz).

Looking Ahead

This November, **Sturgin** is set to represent New Zealand at the 74th international Miss Universe competition in Thailand.

In 2024, **Victoria Velasquez Vincent**, an architect of Kiwi-Filipino heritage who grew up in Whitford, won Miss Universe New Zealand.

**Victoria Kjær Theilvig** secured the global title last year, becoming the first contestant from Denmark to win in the pageant’s history.

July 5, 2025 0 comments

Business

Jaffas discontinued by New Zealand confectionary company RJ’s

by Priya Shah July 1, 2025

written by Priya Shah

Jaffas: Beloved Candy Faces Possible Farewell

A Sweet Treat’s Uncertain Future

The future of the beloved Jaffas candies hangs in the balance after recent reports of their removal from store shelves. This development has sparked sadness amongst fans of the spherical, orange-flavored treats.

While online stores initially showed the product, the candy’s availability remains uncertain. **RJ’s**, the company that took over manufacturing, stated that they are focused on new product innovation.

“While it is extremely tough for us to say goodbye to Jaffas, we are committed to continuing to innovate across our extensive RJ’s range with delicious new products to excite and delight consumers”.

—RJ’s, Statement

Introduced in 1931, the confection was created by **James Stedman-Henderson’s Sweets Ltd** in Sydney, Australia. The treat, though popular in New Zealand, has Australian origins.

Past Events and Production Changes

In 2018, **RJ’s** partnered with **Mondelez International** to handle the production of Jaffas. This followed **Mondelez’s** decision to close its Dunedin factory, which previously manufactured New Zealand Cadbury products. Until that year, Dunedin hosted the Jaffa Race, where thousands of candies were released down Baldwin Street, known as the world’s steepest residential street.

The 2015 Jaffa Race in Dunedin.

According to a recent report, the global confectionery market is projected to reach $600 billion by 2027 (Statista 2024). This highlights the competitive nature of the industry that Jaffas must navigate.

Declining Sales

Similar to the developments in New Zealand, the candies faced removal from Woolworths stores in Australia in December 2023. The supermarket cited reduced sales as the reason for this decision. **RJ’s**, based in Levin, also produces other well-known confectionery items.

July 1, 2025 0 comments

Sport

Hawke’s Bay Motor Caravan Committee Sacked After Chair’s Letter

by Alex Carter June 18, 2025

written by Alex Carter

NZMCA Hawke’s Bay Committee Dismissed Over Letter: What Role Did ‘Legacy Issues’ Play?

Table of Contents

NZMCA Hawke’s Bay Committee Dismissed Over Letter: What Role Did ‘Legacy Issues’ Play?

The New Zealand Motor Caravan Association (NZMCA) Hawke’s Bay area committee has been dismissed by the national board following concerns over a letter written by the committee’s chairman. The letter, which criticized the previous committee and its members, was deemed “unacceptable” due to its tone and perceived political undertones.

Dismissal Details and the Contentious Letter

According to reports, the letter at the center of the controversy was critical of the previous Hawke’s Bay committee and was seen as aggressively targeting two former members. Brian Lochore stated that the national board found the overall tone of the letter “unacceptable,” leading to the committee’s dismissal. Neither Simpson, the author, nor Lochore have released the letter, and NZMCA protocols prevented King from commenting on the situation.

Did You know? The NZMCA has over 100 affiliated parks and campgrounds throughout New Zealand, offering members discounted or free overnight stays.

‘Legacy Issues’ and Differing Perspectives

The now-defunct committee, led by its chairman, indicated they had “inherited a couple of legacy issues” within the Hawke’s Bay area and sought guidance from the NZMCA president on addressing them. The chairman stated the letter aimed to forewarn the president about member-raised concerns and past incidents. Though, the national board viewed the situation differently, interpreting the letter as an inappropriate attack. The specifics of these “legacy issues” remain undisclosed.

The chairman expressed disappointment, suggesting the matter could have been resolved through dialog and internal discussions. He felt the board’s response was disproportionate, describing it as using “a sledgehammer to crack a walnut.”

Impact on NZMCA Activities in Hawke’s Bay

Consequently of the committee’s dismissal, all planned NZMCA activities in the Hawke’s Bay region have been canceled until a new committee is formed. Despite his removal as chairman, Simpson remains an NZMCA member. The NZMCA’s Hawke’s Bay Area Facebook group remains a platform for members to share travels and connect [[2]].

Pro Tip: Check the NZMCA website or facebook group for updates on the formation of a new committee and the resumption of activities in Hawke’s Bay.

The Role of NZMCA Committees

NZMCA committees play a vital role in fostering community and organizing events for members. According to Lochore, these committees are intended for “social engagement, they’re there to run rallies and foster camaraderie,” and not to engage in political activities. The national board’s decision underscores the importance of maintaining a positive and inclusive surroundings within these local groups.

Key Players in the NZMCA Hawke’s Bay Committee Situation
Name	Role	Details
Simpson	Former Hawke’s Bay Committee Chairman	Authored the letter that led to the committee’s dismissal.
Lochore	NZMCA National Board Member	Explained the board’s decision to dismiss the committee.
King	NZMCA President	Received the letter but declined to comment, citing NZMCA protocols.

Looking Ahead

The NZMCA faces the challenge of forming a new committee in Hawke’s bay to resume activities and rebuild trust within the local membership. The situation highlights the importance of clear dialogue, adherence to organizational guidelines, and a focus on fostering a welcoming and inclusive community for all NZMCA members.

What steps should the NZMCA take to ensure future committees operate effectively and avoid similar controversies? How can members contribute to a more positive and collaborative environment within their local area groups?

Evergreen Insights: The NZMCA and Recreational Vehicle Travel in New Zealand

The NZMCA plays a meaningful role in promoting and supporting recreational vehicle (RV) travel throughout New Zealand. With a growing number of both domestic and international tourists exploring the country by motorhome and caravan, the NZMCA provides valuable resources, advocacy, and a sense of community for its members. The organization works to ensure access to affordable and safe camping facilities, promotes responsible RV travel practices, and advocates for policies that support the RV lifestyle.

The popularity of RV travel in New Zealand has increased significantly in recent years,driven by factors such as the country’s stunning natural landscapes,well-maintained road infrastructure,and the freedom and versatility that RV travel offers. As the RV community continues to grow, the NZMCA’s role in providing support, guidance, and a unified voice for its members becomes increasingly crucial.

FAQ: Understanding the NZMCA and Committee Roles

What is the primary purpose of the NZMCA?: The NZMCA aims to support and advocate for recreational vehicle users in New Zealand,providing resources,community,and promoting responsible RV travel.
How do local area committees contribute to the NZMCA’s mission?: Local committees organize events, foster community, and provide a local point of contact for NZMCA members within their region.
What are the key responsibilities of an NZMCA committee chairman?: The chairman leads the committee, facilitates communication, and ensures the committee operates in accordance with NZMCA guidelines.
How dose the NZMCA national board oversee local area committees?: The national board provides guidance, support, and oversight to local committees, ensuring they adhere to the organization’s policies and objectives.
What are some common activities organized by NZMCA committees?: committees typically organize rallies, social gatherings, and educational events for members, promoting camaraderie and sharing knowledge about RV travel.
How can NZMCA members get involved in their local area committee?: Members can attend meetings, volunteer for events, and express their interest in joining the committee to contribute to their local NZMCA community.

Share your thoughts on the NZMCA Hawke’s Bay situation in the comments below! Subscribe to World Today News for more updates on community organizations and events.

June 18, 2025 0 comments

News

Pōkeno Whisky continues native wood cask range, works to put New Zealand on whisky map

by David Harrison June 13, 2025

written by David Harrison

New Zealand Distillery Crafts Whisky in Rare Kauri Cask

A New Zealand distillery has created a whisky aged in a kauri cask, a rare feat given the wood’s scarcity and challenging properties. The resulting spirit is a unique expression of Kiwi craftsmanship, with a flavor profile that’s proving to be quite distinct.

The Kauri Challenge

In 2023, the company launched a native wood cask project, the first of which was a tōtara cask whisky. This inaugural whisky earned awards at several international competitions. Now, they’ve set their sights on a second: a kauri single-cask whisky. According to Johns, the kauri cask almost didn’t come to fruition.

Kauri is notoriously difficult to work with. It’s not just the difficulty in acquiring it. “It’s very brittle and snaps and breaks and cracks,” explained Johns.

The kauri cask is eye-catching, not only due to its small size, but also because: droplets of whisky have forced themselves through staves in several parts of the barrel. Photo / Danielle Zollickhofer

A Cooper’s Expertise

The team obtained the kauri wood from a Te Kauwhata resident who had it stored for three decades. Mike Tawse, a cooper originally from Scotland, is believed to be the only person in New Zealand trained in the craft of barrel making.

Tawse described the kauri cask’s creation as “certainly been a challenge.” He added, “It was breaking as I was making it, but I just persevered. In the end, it was a bit smaller than I would have liked it to be, but I just had to say that’s good enough.”

Flavor Profile and Release

“It’s interesting on the nose, very rich and perfumy that you wouldn’t associate with whisky at all. But when we first tried it, it did have a dryness that wasn’t good,” said Johns.

He continued, “A year in, we randomly found it and tried it again and we thought oh wow, it’s actually good. It’s difficult to describe.”

According to Statista, the global whisky market is forecast to reach $78.97 billion in revenue in 2024. The demand for unique, small-batch whiskies like this is growing.

More Special Editions

The distillery is also set to launch a sauvignon blanc cask whisky in partnership with The Hunting Lodge Winery. This whisky matured entirely in a sauvignon blanc barrel. “You can really smell and taste the sauvignon blanc and those lovely citrus notes,” said Johns.

Johns stated that the kauri cask will be a limited release of approximately 100 bottles, available exclusively in New Zealand in July. The next native wood cask release, however, is estimated to be two years away.

Pōkeno Whisky continues native wood cask range, works to put New Zealand on whisky map — Pōkeno Whisky’s cooper Mike Tawse at work. Photo / Supplied

The company is also experimenting with tawa wood for future releases. Tawse noted that coopering is a unique, though physically demanding, trade.

Pōkeno Whisky is specialised in single malt whisky and is only producing this kind of whisky. Photo / Pōkeno Whisky Co

In addition to the kauri cask, the distillery recently restored a sherry cask, which was a collaboration with Michael Fraser Milne of Whisky Galore. This 100-year-old cask, named Solera La Ina Hogshead No. 121, adds another layer of historical significance to the distillery’s offerings.

Michael Fraser Milne of Christchurch whisky specialist store Whisky Galore.
Photo / supplied

The distillery, founded in 2017 by Johns and his wife, Celine, is open to visitors on Saturdays. The company is also present at Fieldays, where they recently launched their first Port Cask Whisky.

June 13, 2025 0 comments

News

Hirschi with no luck on the Lombardy tour

by Ethan Caldwell October 13, 2024

written by Ethan Caldwell

Pogacar with a show of force | October 12, 2024

While Marc Hirschi from Bern comes away empty-handed, for Tadej Pogacar and Remco Evenepoel it is a clear case who takes which place on the podium. The Slovenian is three minutes ahead of first place.

Marc Hirschi fails to achieve a podium finish in Lombardy. Photo: Keystone

Tadej Pogacar wins the Tour of Lombardy for the fourth time in a row. The Slovenian reached the finish in Como solo. Olympic champion Remco Evenepoel took second place, 3:15 minutes behind.

Marc Hirschi, the highest Swiss trump card, was not allowed to play. The Bernese put himself in the service of Pogacar and had to close a hole before the Slovenian’s attack.

The Lombardy tour over 252 kilometers with eight climbs is tailored to mountain specialists. Pogacar was basically the only favorite and did full justice to the role. The 26-year-old reached the culmination point at the last significant obstacle, 41 kilometers from the finish, 1:09 minutes ahead of the first three pursuers including Evenepoel. And the show running continued on the downhill and on the surface too.

An outstanding year for Pogacar

With victory at the fifth and final monument of the season, the Slovenian rounded off an outstanding year in style. The Slovenian started his season dernière in the world champion jersey in Zurich after winning the Giro and the Tour de France and also triumphing at Liège-Bastogne-Liège and the Strade Bianche.

Pogacar cannot currently be beaten with his physicality, but only with his tactics. Almost every team sent a driver into a larger escape group to see how Pogacar’s UAE team would react. When the lead had grown to over four minutes, Hirschi and Jan Christen were called into action.

On the way to Como, Pogacar drew level with Alfredo Binda, who also won this Italian autumn classic four times between 1925 and 1931. Fausto Coppi remains – at least until autumn of next year – the only driver to have won the Tour of Lombardy five times, including four times in a row (1946 to 1949 and 1954).

October 13, 2024 0 comments

News

The city of Bern gives the starting signal for the new BFH campus

by Ethan Caldwell October 10, 2024

written by Ethan Caldwell

Planning instruments come into force | October 10, 2024

Milestone for the new Bern campus of the Bern University of Applied Sciences: With the adjustment of the planning principles, construction in Ausserholligen can begin soon. Mayor Alec von Graffenried sees this as an important step for the development of the district.

Green light for the construction of the BFH campus in Ausserholligen.Visualization: Kanton Bern AGG / wulf architekten, STUDIOPEZ, Aron Lorincz Atelier

For the construction of the new Bern campus of the Bern University of Applied Sciences in the Ausserholligen development priority (ESP), the planning principles had to be adjusted, as the local council writes in a statement. On August 28th, the Office for Municipalities and Regional Planning approved the Weyermannshaus-Ost III development regulations and the Weyermannshaus-Ost zoning plan. No complaints were received against this. The city of Bern will therefore put the two planning instruments into effect on October 10th.

Mayor Alec von Graffenried is very pleased with the completion of the planning. “We are thus reaching an important milestone in the development of the ESP Ausserholligen and are creating the conditions for construction of the Bern campus to begin soon. The campus will make a decisive contribution to the revitalization of the ESP and its attractive outdoor space with the open city stream will be an asset for the entire district,” he is quoted in the statement.

October 10, 2024 0 comments

Newer Posts

Older Posts