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September 25.2025
2 Minutes Read

Raglan Community Rallying Against Fast Fashion: XZW Bans Shein

XZW bans Shein: Hand holding phone with Shein crossed out.

Xtreme Zero Waste Leads the Charge Against Fast Fashion

In an impactful move, Xtreme Zero Waste has made headlines in Raglan and beyond by banning donations from fast-fashion giant Shein. As a recycling center dedicated to sustainability, Xtreme has struggled with the sheer quantity and poor quality of Shein's garments. Jemma from Xtreme highlighted that these clothes often comprise one in five donations, significantly hindering their recycling efforts. Despite their affordability, the lack of durability in Shein products raises concerns about their environmental footprint. “They'll just be really poor designs... or things that just look really frumpy and unflattering,” Jemma remarked, emphasizing the negative impact of synthetic materials on the recycling process.

The Broader Impact on Fast Fashion

This local decision resonates with global trends, as seen in France, which recently enacted legislation targeting fast-fashion retailers through taxes and penalties. Such moves serve as a critical reminder of the urgent need to rethink our shopping habits. As Jemma urges, choosing second-hand or locally made products can significantly contribute to a more sustainable community.

A Community Tribute: Remembering Peter Williams

In community news, Raglan gathered to commemorate Peter Williams, a beloved local figure and the founder of Raglan Engineering, who recently passed away. Hundreds attended the heartfelt farewell at St Peter’s Church Hall, remembering Peter for his remarkable spirit, ingenuity, and contributions to the community. His unique touch extended even to his memorial, where his own urn crafted from pohutukawa wood reflected his creativity. The community’s love for Peter was also embodied in a special beer, Pete’s Pilsner, brewed in his honor at Workshop Brewing.

Spotlight on Raglan’s Rising Sports

Shifting to local sports, Raglan FC is making waves as they prepare to send their U14 girls team to the prestigious Weir Rose Bowl competition in Cambridge. This historic event marks a significant milestone for Raglan’s girls' football, showcasing the growth and development of the sport in the region. Coach Marty Kroon leads the team into this competitive arena, marking nearly a decade since the formation of their first girls' team. The ongoing growth in participation sees close to equal numbers of boys and girls engaging in football, underscoring a positive trend the community is proud to support.

As Raglan reflects on these developments, it is clear that the community's commitment to sustainability, honoring its past, and fostering young talent in sports showcases a vibrant and engaged local spirit.

Raglan

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10.06.2025

Why Are Raglan Residents Ignoring Rising Rates? Delving Into Community Apathy

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10.02.2025

Jacqui Church: Leading Raglan Towards a Sustainable Future

Update Jacqui Church: A Proven Leader Focused on the Future In the race for the Mayor of Raglan and Waikato District, Jacqui Church stands out as an experienced candidate with a firm grasp on the challenges and opportunities facing the community. Having served as Mayor and Councillor since 2013, Church emphasizes her commitment to transparency and community engagement. She proudly states, “It has been an honour serving you, but there’s much more to do.” Her platform revolves around modernizing services while keeping rates low, a balancing act she believes is crucial in these times of economic pressure. Achievements and Future Focus Under Church’s leadership over the past term, the district has seen efforts to maintain a delicate equilibrium between growth and affordability. Her administration has successfully kept rate increases below the national average, focusing on maintaining essential services while preparing for growth. As the fourth fastest-growing council in New Zealand, the demands on infrastructure and resources are significant. Church’s Long-Term Plan, which began on July 1, 2025, seeks to address these challenges head-on by prioritizing cost-effective and sustainable solutions through a productive partnership with Hamilton City Council. This innovative approach aims to streamline water services and improve overall efficiencies across the board. Community Engagement and Localizing Governance Church believes that empowering community voices is essential for effective governance. She has made strides in devolving power to community boards, supporting them in creating their own plans which focus on local needs. The essence of local governance, according to Church, is recognizing that every community is unique. As part of her collaborative strategy, she has welcomed input from various local groups, including Federated Farmers and the Hamilton-Waikato Chamber of Commerce, reflecting an inclusive approach to decision-making. “Community boards should have a say in small projects,” she affirms, affirming that managing local infrastructure effectively requires community insight. Adapting to Economic Pressures and Climate Action The economic landscape is shifting, with many residents facing tough times post-COVID. Church acknowledges these stresses and aims to continue providing adaptable and resilient services. Her administration’s response includes emphasizing climate change strategies and community resilience planning, ensuring that the district is not only prepared for growth but is also sustainable in its approach to development. This comprehensive outlook captures the dual pressures of economic constraints and environmental responsibilities, showcasing Church’s holistic understanding of local governance. Why Choose Jacqui Church? For Raglanites looking for a candidate who blends experience with a commitment to future growth, Jacqui Church represents a reliable choice. Her vision for the district balances essential services with accountability and community engagement, fostering a thriving environment for all residents. As she rallies support for her candidacy, Church invites every resident to contribute to the ongoing conversation about the future of Raglan—where every voice matters in creating a livable and connected community.

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Raglan U14 Girls Leave Their Mark at Weir Rose Bowl Tournament

Update Raglan Girls Shine at Weir Rose Bowl Tournament This past weekend, the Raglan U14 girls football team made an impressive impact at the prestigious Weir Rose Bowl tournament held at St. Peter’s School in Cambridge. Over the weekend of September 26-28, these talented young athletes showcased their skills against some of New Zealand’s best junior teams, hailing from regions like Wellington, Auckland, Northland, Bay of Plenty, and Waikato. A Strong Start Despite Challenges Initially facing tough competition, the Raglan squad, comprised of players from both the Karioi Kahawai and Whai Rahi teams and coached by veteran Marty Kroon, encountered heavy losses. However, they demonstrated resilience and determination by bouncing back to secure a significant win and a hard-fought draw on the second day of the tournament. This turnaround not only highlighted their skills but also served as an inspiration for their ongoing development. Thrilling Conclusion and Community Pride The final day proved intense, starting with a loss, but the team made it to the fifth place final against the host school, Cambridge. After a nail-biting match that ended in a 2-2 draw, they triumphed in a penalty shootout, securing a commendable 4-3 victory. This experience not only led to significant skill enhancement but also fostered lasting memories, reinforcing the importance of teamwork and perseverance. Building a Foundation for Future Success Participating in the Weir Rose Bowl was more than just a tournament for Raglan's young athletes. It marked a major milestone and provided an invaluable platform for growth, both on and off the field. The achievement embodies the spirit of the Raglan community, showcasing their emerging talents and commitment to excellence. As they continue into future competitions, these young players have demonstrated the resilience and potential to inspire their peers and the local community.

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