I hope you had a good long weekend. As usual last week was a busy week in Te Awamutu. As a result of a social media post regarding an incident at a supermarket, police had members of the public come forward with complaints which resulted in an arrest and charges relating to intimidating behaviour and wilful damage.

Ryan Fleming outside Te Awamutu Police Station.
I often find myself saying this: Don’t believe everything you see on social media. There is always more to a story and sadly as a result of this particular post it has had a negative impact on an innocent party (the supermarket) who had a duty of care to ensure the safety of their staff and customers.
Friday is Anzac Day. A day we are reminded of the courage, sacrifice, and resilience of those who served our country. It’s a time for communities across New Zealand to come together, honour our history, and reflect on the freedoms we enjoy today.
Te Awamutu will hold its annual Anzac Day service. The Dawn Parade will be held at the Sunken Cross War memorial, Mutu Street at 6am.
Ex service personnel will parade outside the RSA Clubroom, 381 Alexandra Street, Te Awamutu at 5.45am. The civic parade is at 11am at Anzac Green. I encourage all residents to attend and pay their respects. Whether you have a direct connection to the armed forces or simply wish to show support, your presence is a powerful tribute to the legacy of our servicemen and women.
Gather your family, wear a poppy, and join us in remembrance. Remember if you are wearing a family member’s medals they are to be worn on the right side of your chest.
Let’s stand together as a community — united in gratitude and committed to never forgetting.