Kia ora

March in the Tararua District is packed with exciting events for all ages across Pahiatua, Woodville, Dannevirke, Eketāhuna and Mangatainoka.

Families can enjoy Children’s Day celebrations, Whānau Day Out, markets, car boot sales and the vibrant Mangamaire Sunflower Field Open Day. Art lovers won’t want to miss the Tararua District Annual Lindauer Art Exhibition at Rinitawa Art & History Gallery, while thrill-seekers can take on the iconic Te Āpiti Traverse through the stunning Manawatū Gorge.

There are also plenty of opportunities to learn and connect, with health workshops, first aid training with New Zealand Red Cross, business spreadsheeting sessions, sewing classes, and cultural experiences like Raranga weaving. Truck enthusiasts can head to the Mangatainoka Motors Truck Stop Show & Shine at Tui Brewery, while history buffs can join the Gorge Cemetery Tour honouring World War One veterans.

From community markets and talent shows to outdoor adventures and hands-on workshops, there’s truly something for everyone this March in Tararua

Kia ora.

I am just providing an update about kerbside recycling in Norsewood and Ormondville. Could you please include it in your next Norsewood Newsletter ????

Kerbside recycling bins are coming to Norsewood and Ormondville, aligning the two communities with the wider urban district service.

Bins will be rolled out in March 2026, with the first collection scheduled for Thursday 26 March 2026. Collections will take place every Thursday, with glass and mixed recycling collected on alternate weeks.

The service has been operating successfully in Dannevirke, Woodville, Pahiatua and Eketāhuna for several years.

Recycling in Norsewood and Ormondville was previously collected by a private contractor using boxes or bags. That contract ended on 30 November 2025, creating an opportunity to introduce a standardised Mixed Recycling Bins and Glass Recycling Crates collection service.

Urban-rated properties will receive a glass recycling crate and a mixed recycling bin. Both belong to the property and must remain at the property if residents move.

Information on what you can put in your bin is provided here: Recycling Services | Tararua District Council

Funding and next steps

Residents in Norsewood and Ormondville have not previously paid for kerbside recycling through their rates, unlike households in other towns.

Council will not initially charge for the service. It will be funded through existing solid waste operational budgets in the short term, giving the community the opportunity to experience the service and decide whether they wish to retain it.

As part of the next Long Term Plan (LTP), Council will consult on future funding options. These may include introducing a targeted rate, consistent with other towns, or discontinuing the service.

Recycling drop-off centre bin

A new recycling drop-off site is being investigated in Norsewood, following the removal of bins from the previous location.

Any site for the drop-off centre needs to meet Council requirements, including being Council-owned land, having no ongoing lease costs, providing safe truck access, and being visible to deter fly-tipping.

Just a reminder that Yrs 3-8 have their first Wai Splash swimming lesson tomorrow.  We will be travelling by bus and be back by lunch time.  Please ensure your students bring their togs.