It was a full house at the Tamahere Community Centre for the June TCC meeting, with residents, committee members, and representatives from WDC, Tamahere Lions, and other local organisations coming together to tackle both strategic and on-the-ground issues affecting our growing community.
Birchwood Lane Speeding: Community Speaks, TCC Responds
Hot on the heels of a public meeting, TCC formally submitted its recommendations to Waikato District Council regarding the controversial traffic calming measures on Birchwood Lane. The committee thanked Council for finally engaging with residents, but made it clear: the current chicanes must go. Instead, they’re proposing painted median strips, more visible speed signage, better road maintenance, and safer pedestrian options near the village. The full list of 10 specific actions is now with Council.
Community Centre Collaboration
Graham McAdam, Chair of the Tamahere Community Centre, confirmed strong financial stability and outlined plans to potentially expand the Centre's role as a community hub. With bookings booming and limited volunteer capacity, the Centre is now managed professionally. TCC and the Centre will explore future cooperation, including shared goals and business planning.
Local Developments & Infrastructure
Key infrastructure updates included:
Tamahere Reserve to reopen soon following pine tree felling and clean-up.
A second toilet block in the Recreation Park is under discussion – TCC prefers it be located near the current facility for safety and service reasons.
Council confirmed recent land purchases by Sanderson Group may enable future connectivity but no new consents have been filed yet.
CCTV progress remains slow – Council is still waiting on supplier updates.
Council Matters & Budget Outcomes
Cr Crystal Beavis shared updates from Council, including:
Approval of a $5K annual grant to support the Tamahere Forum (TCC had requested $10K – the shortfall may be covered through other funding streams).
Public feedback favoured forming a joint Council-controlled organisation (CCO) with Hamilton City Council, which is now moving ahead.
Residents are encouraged to have their say on upcoming Reserve Management Plans before the 14 July deadline.
Other Community Updates
Fieldays traffic plans remain largely unchanged from last year.
Predator Free Tamahere and TMRT projects continue their strong momentum, with community planting events proposed.
Tamahere Lions’ Playground Shade Project has received funding – stage 1 is complete, with further work underway.
Civil Defence is still seeking a local lead coordinator – volunteers welcome!
St Stephens Market Day returns on Saturday 21 June – now with no clash with Fieldays.
Congratulations to local residents recognised in the 2025 King’s Birthday Honours:
Peter Nation (ONZM) – services to agriculture and governance
Marilyn Yeoman (MNZM) – services to education and community
Next TCC Meeting: Tuesday, 1 July at 7.30pm, Tamahere Community Centre.
Download Full Minutes Below.
