Kaiwaka – A Delightful Detour Worth Every BiteDriving north or south along SH1 anytime, or this weekend? Don’t just pass through pause in Kaiwaka, the little town is bursting with big flavour and creativity.Start with a smile at the famous Eutopia Café, where sculpted huia, mosaic art, and whimsical domes set the tone for a truly magical coffee stop. It’s an art lover’s paradise and the coffee and treats are just as impressive as the décor. Don’t miss Aunt Jean’s chocolate peanut butter balls, and yes, even the toilets are a talking point! https://www.eutopia.nz/ Pop next door to the Kaiwaka Cheese Shop - a Dutch style deli loaded with imported and local cheeses, gourmet goods, and irresistible nibbles for the road.https://kaiwakacheese.co.nz/ But wait there is more...Just a few steps away, La Nonna Bakery serves up excellent artisan breads, pastries, and great coffee so if you’re in a hurry going north or south. You're good to go!Across the road, The Three Furlongs Bar & Grill offers hearty meals, cold drinks, and some of the best hot chips around, perfect for a relaxed sit-down lunch or dinner. https://www.threefurlongs.co.nz/ And if you're staying the night, they’ve got you covered with comfortable accommodation upstairs.Need supplies? The Four Square has everything you could want ideal whether you're stocking up for a beach day in Mangawhai or heading further north.Great coffee, artisan bread, premium cheese, hot meals, and all your essentials - Kaiwaka makes stopping a pleasure, not a chore.Take a break. Stretch your legs. And treat yourself.Kaiwaka - it’s more than a turn-off. It’s a hidden gem.

** Traffic Update ** - Crash on SH1 near Constellation Drive - SouthboundWarkworth / Rodney RegionFriday 8th August - Rain, possibly heavy, easing to a few showers this morning as northerlies change southwesterly.Saturday 9th August - Mainly fine, but isolated showers in the morning. Strong southwesterlies, easing in the afternoon.Sunday 10th August - Mainly fine, but isolated showers in the morning. Southerlies, becoming strong.Mangawhai / Northland RegionFriday 8th August - Rain with possible thunderstorms, easing to a few showers this morning as northerlies change southwesterly.Saturday 9th August - Fine apart from isolated showers. Strong southwesterlies, easing in the afternoon.Sunday 10th August - Fine apart from isolated showers. Southerlies, becoming strong.

Caution: Road HazardSH SH1 Constellation Drive SouthboundCrashDue to a car crash after Constellation Drive the right lane is blocked. Expect delays and pass the scene with care.Detour routeNot applicable.Start8 Aug 2025 6:20amExpected resolutionUntil further noticeLast updated8 Aug 2025 6:37am

No, They’re Not Digging Up the Main StreetWarkworth has earned the nickname “Talkworth” for how quickly news and rumours can spread. Even so, I was surprised recently when two different people told me they’d heard Watercare was about to dig up the main street. Let’s put that one to rest. From Lucy Moore Park to the end of Queen Street by Mill Lane, the work will be tunnelled, not trenched.Two pits will be dug, one in Kapanui Street and one at the end of Queen Street (off the road, before the bridge). As I’ve said before, Watercare hasn’t spent millions on a state-of-the-art tunnelling machine just to backtrack and start digging trenches; it doesn’t make sense. Elizabeth Street is a different story. Because of the depth of the pipe, it will have to be trenched. We’ve been working closely with retailers there to find the least disruptive timing. If you ever have questions or concerns, please get in touch with me directly// On another note, local body elections are coming up in October. Congratulations to all those putting their names forward. It’s no small thing to stand for public office.One Mahurangi will be hosting:Mayoral Candidates Debate – WED 10 September, Town Hall, 5.30pm for a 6pm startLocal Board Candidates Meeting – WED 17 September, Warkworth Bridgehouse Back Bar, 5.30pm for a 6pm start (Inviting candidates from both the Warkworth Ward and the Northern Rodney Subdivision)I encourage you to come along, ask questions, and decide for yourself who will best represent our area. With the growth and changes ahead, we need strong, committed voices at the table.// Our planned SGM for 13th August has been postponed to allow more time for review. The proposed constitutional changes will now be voted on at our AGM on 1 October. Keep an eye out for the official notice.// Last Thursday, I attended Art in August Opening Night at the Warkworth Hotel and heard Sharon Zollner, Chief Economist at ANZ, speak about the economy. She was cautiously optimistic about an upturn later this year – fingers crossed. Photos from the One Mahurangi/Real Living event are in the newsletter below.// We’re over the hump of winter now and heading towards spring. Let’s keep supporting local businesses; it’s the best way to keep our town thriving. As always, we’re Stronger Together.Murray Chapman Manager | One Mahurangi Business Association, [email protected] | 0274 966 550// Art in August 2025 Opening Night Special Thanks to Art in August 2025 Opening Night Sponsor:// Business Support //In this workshop, you will smooth your transition from individual contributor to leader. For more information about the content of this workshop, CLICK HERE> To register your interest, CLICK HERE> NOTE: This workshop is registered with the Regional Business Partner Network. To explore if your business may be eligible for funding support, contact Dale Carnegie, so they can put you in touch with your local Regional Business Growth Advisor if appropriate to discuss further.Email [email protected] for more information Warkworth Comedy Gala UpdateIt’s with much disappointment that we let you know the Warkworth Comedy Gala – Raise the Roof for Homebuilders, planned for Saturday 9 August, will not be going ahead.Unfortunately, ticket sales haven’t reached the level needed to make the event viable. This was not an easy decision, and we want to sincerely thank everyone who purchased tickets, our amazing sponsors (Mitre10 Mega Warkworth and LJ Hooker Warkworth), the comedians, and the many people who supported us in trying to make this happen.For those who have purchased tickets, refunds will be available from the point of purchase, on presentation of your tickets. While we’re disappointed not to bring this night of laughter to the Town Hall, our commitment to supporting Homebuilders Family Services remains strong. We encourage everyone to learn more about their important work in the community here: homebuildersfs.org.Direct donations can be made: Homebuilder Family Services 12-3095-0167279-00 Thank you for your understanding, and One Mahurangi looks forward to bringing more community events to Warkworth in the future.TO READ THE FULL NEWSLETTER CLICK HERE

PRESS RELEASE - 6th August 2025Slip Repair Nears Completion at Mangawhai Heads Volunteer Lifeguard Service Clubhouse – But Critical Clubhouse Repair and Seawall Funding Still Needed. (MHVLS) is pleased to announce that major progress has been made on repairing the landslip behind its iconic clubhouse, with completion expected in early August. The long-awaited repair project, delivered by Earth Stability Limited (ESL), marks a significant milestone in restoring the operational core of the club and protecting the surrounding environment.ESL has completed significant stabilisation work, including the installation of rock bolts, galvanised and PVC-coated rockfall mesh, and the application of vegetation matting. This state-of-the-art solution will encourage regrowth while preventing further erosion of the exposed rock face.Once ESL concludes its work, the site will be handed over to the building repair contractors, who will wrap the clubhouse in weatherproof material and begin restoration works, expected to continue through to Christmas. Thanks to steadfast support from insurance broker Aon and insurers NZI and Vero, MHVLS is on track to return to its clubhouse and resume full services to the public during the 2025/26 season.“This project reflects not just physical restoration, but the resilience of our club over the past two and a half years,” said the MHVLS committee. “The support of Surf Life Saving New Zealand (SLSNZ), and the CAPEX funding of $1.9 million they helped secure, has been critical.”Call for Community Support: Clubhouse, Seawall, and Boat Ramp Still Require Funding.While progress on the slip and clubhouse repair is encouraging, MHVLS continues to face significant challenges in funding the repair of the clubhouse and the upgrade of the seawall and boat ramp directly in front of the club. These essential coastal defences are vital to the long-term safety and function of the site — particularly following extreme weather events.The club has secured design plans and resource consent from Northland Regional Council (NRC), but despite best efforts, funding applications through multiple community grant channels have been unsuccessful. The situation is further complicated by a lack of clarity regarding financial responsibility between the Kaipara District Council (KDC) and NRC.“We have the plans and the green light — but without funding, we can’t act,” said the committee. “We are now looking to the public and local businesses to help us protect this vital community asset for future generations.”Ongoing Lease Negotiations and Future ConcernsThe club continues to negotiate its site lease with KDC, which owns the land, amid growing concerns over future development plans at Mangawhai Heads Reserve. Key issues — including access and parking — remain unresolved, and MHVLS is advocating strongly to ensure any development does not compromise its vital lifesaving services.“We’re here to serve the community, and that includes ensuring this site remains fit for purpose well into the future,” said the club.How You Can HelpMHVLS welcomes donations, sponsorships, and in-kind support to help fund the clubhouse, the seawall, and boat ramp repairs. If you'd like to contribute, please contact the club or visit:MHVLS Givealittle page https://givealittle.co.nz/org/mangawhaisurfclubMHVLS Website https://mangawhaisurfclub.org.nz/

Nestled along the Mahurangi River just south of Warkworth, the ruins of the old Wilson's Cement Works including the iconic chimneys are slowly succumbing to time. As local chatter builds following a Facebook post, the community is grappling with how best to memorialise a once thriving landmark before it vanishes. It was a destination.The Birth of an IndustryFounded in the 1880s by Nathaniel Wilson and his brothers, Warkworth was home to the Southern Hemisphere's first commercial Portland cement plant Nathaniel, a Glasgow immigrant turned shoemaker turned industrial pioneer, began by experimenting with local limestone and river shells to perfect cement that would help build Auckland's infrastructureBy around 1903, new American rotary kilns and grinding mills were installed, and output surged employing up to 180 workers by 1910, and supplying notable projects including Grafton Bridge and Queen’s WharfCommunity and Labour LegacyLocal historian records at the museum recount both pride and struggle. Worker stories include union action, strikes in the early 1910s, and even dismissals over minor matters, yet many employees remained loyal to the Wilson family management over time The museum continues to collect family histories, photos and oral accounts from descendants of workersDecline, Abandonment and ReinventionDespite expansion, by 1918 Wilson’s had merged into a larger Portland Cement company centred in Whangārei. Warkworth ceased cement production by 1926–29, transitioning to lime before closing completelyDuring World War II, American servicemen used the derelict site for demolition training, further damaging its structureAs roads improved, reliance on river transport diminished, and Warkworth shifted from an industrial hub to a riverside service townMuseum Exhibition & Local HistoriansIn late 2023, Warkworth Museum opened a dedicated “Wilson Cement Works” exhibition, featuring a detailed timeline, artefacts, photographs (some taken as recently as 2025 in a museum photo competition), diaries, and even a large 3D model of the works site. The display includes commentary from the local Cement Works Conservation Trust about future restoration possibilities https://warkworthmuseum.co.nz/wilsons-cement-worksA Facebook Post Sparks Renewed DebateRecently, a local resident posted photos of crumbling brickwork and damaged chimneys on a community Facebook group, drawing attention to collapsing masonry and safety hazards. The post quickly prompted divided responses—some urging removal for public safety, others passionately defending the chimneys as priceless links to Warkworth’s heritage and identity.Preservation vs Safety: The Current Trade‑OffWith vandalism and structural degradation now visible, the Conservation Trust has warned that the chimneys are at risk of collapse and injury from graffiti and climbing attempts . The Trust’s strategic goals include stabilising these at-risk structures, enhancing fencing, creating safe walking routes, interpretive signage, and possibly viewing platformsHeritage New Zealand recognises the site as a Category 1 historic place, and it is registered with the NZ Archaeological Association, underscoring its national and international importance https://www.heritage.org.nz/list-details/82/ListingConclusionThe ruins of Warkworth's Cement Works are more than just crumbling bricks and rusting iron they embody industrial ambition, regional growth, and countless personal stories. The community’s recent online activity reflects both concern and affection. With local historians, the Museum, and community groups engaged, now may be the time to craft a future that honours this heritage. Stabilisation, interpretive storytelling, and protective access could transform the site into a meaningful public asset rather than letting it vanish altogether.https://cementworkswarkworth.org.nz/

Monique Steele, JournalistThe appetite for food made with the use of gene technologies will be tested in New Zealand, amid ongoing regulatory reform and an easing of food labelling requirements.Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) approved updated definitions for genetically-modified (GM) food in the Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code in June for review, following public consultation.In late July, Food Safety Minister Andrew Hoggard and his Australian counterparts decided to adopt them.Food produced using new breeding techniques, including gene editing, will not need to be labelled as "GM" on the food label, if novel or new DNA was not introduced in the process.Simultaneously, the government was considering a new regulatory regime for gene technologies used outside the laboratory, after it attracted 15,000 submissions during select committee earlier this year.GM food or GM-free a consumer's choice?Minister Andrew Hoggard told RNZ last week, there was some vocal opposition to FSANZ's P1055 proposal during public consultation from those who "don't believe in [genetic engineering].""There was still some vocal opposition, so that was taken onboard. Obviously, there was support from a lot of industry and scientific groups," he said.Andrew Hoggard said producers could still choose to disclose gene technologies to label it as such. (File photo) Photo: RNZ / Angus DreaverHoggard said in removing the requirement, producers could still choose to disclose gene technologies used throughout production on the label."There's nothing stopping anyone who is producing food that doesn't have any new breeding technologies to label it as such. We're not outlawing that people don't have to put these labels on."He said it came down to consumer's choice."So if the organic sector, for example, doesn't want to allow these new breeding techniques in their production, then people who also think they don't want to consume food that's had new breeding techniques used in them, then they can just buy organic and know that 'okay, that hasn't been used'."If this is something you're not worried about, then just go ahead shopping as normal," he said."If it is something you are concerned about, producers who will be using the old methodologies will still be able to highlight on the packaging that, 'hey, we don't use the X, Y and Z' or 'we don't do this or that'. And you just need to go and look for that food."Hoggard said to the best of his knowledge, no health issues had been raised from the consumption of GMO products, like soya bean for example.Meanwhile, GE-Free New Zealand spokesperson Jon Carapiet said the eased labelling requirements took informed choices away from the consumer.GE-Free New Zealand spokesperson Jon Carapiet. Photo: RNZ"It's really fundamentally unethical to take away the ordinary consumer's choice in the supermarkets," Carapiet said."It's all about trust, and to say 'we're not gonna even trust you to make your own decisions anymore'... is really wrong."He said the assertion that shoppers concerned about GM food would simply buy organic food instead was "disingenuous"."The average consumer certainly can't afford to go and buy organics on everyday basis. I wish they could, but they can't," he said."So to say all the ordinary people of New Zealand don't deserve the right to choose, I think that's very wrong."Carapiet said supermarkets could ask their suppliers to disclose the use of gene technologies throughout production to ensure transparency and to inform shoppers about the product they were buying."I think that in the coming months, if this does go ahead, companies will have to go above and beyond the food authority standards."If the food authority FSANZ says 'no you can have GM crops and GE foods unlabelled in the supermarket', then it's going to be for the supermarkets to voluntarily label it."Supermarkets commit to complianceIn a written statement, a Foodstuffs spokesperson said it took food safety "very seriously" and complied fully with the Australia and New Zealand Food Standards Code, including all labelling requirements."Customers have the right to know what's in the food they're buying," they said."As part of our supplier agreements, we require partners to disclose country of origin information, and any environmental or social claims must be accurate and substantiated."They said the same approach applied to food made using gene technologies, including GM ingredients."Any changes to regulation in this space will be carefully reviewed, and we'll continue to ensure our labelling provides customers with accurate and transparent information, so they can make informed choices."A Woolworths New Zealand spokesperson said it will make sure its retail items complied with labelling rules."If the labelling rules in New Zealand change then we would ensure all products comply with labelling requirements," they said.A government report on the Gene Technology Bill was expected on August 22.This story was originally published by RNZ

Finn Blackwell, ReporterTo view the video discussing the route map head here.A glimpse of a new era in Auckland Transport was unveiled on Monday.At Britomart Station, an updated map gives commuters a preview of the new stations and rail lines it will use when the long-awaited City Rail Link (CRL) opens.The over-budget and over-time CRL is nearing completion, but officials are not ready yet to say exactly when it will open.Auckland's Onehunga, Eastern, Western and Southern lines are being replaced by the Onehunga-West line, the East-West line and the South-City line, new routes detailed in the new map.It is hoped the re-configured network will make it easier for Aucklanders to get around town, as more trains run from more stations - like ones near Karangahape Road and in Mt Eden - more frequently, and link with express buses.Work began on the $5.5 billion CRL in 2017. It was due to be completed last year, and its initial cost was expected to be between $2b and $3b.Auckland Transport chief executive Dean Kimpton said capacity on the network had been boosted."Currently at peak into the city, we have about 12,000 people per hour," Kimpton said."The capacity we're creating though the new CRL, day one, will be up to 19,000. Quite the number of people will depend on demand, but we have that capacity ready and available to go."Dean Kimpton unveils the new CRL transport map at Britomart, August 2025. Photo: Finn Blackwell / RNZParts of Auckland's rail network had been temporarily closed this year for upgrades ahead of the CRL opening, causing significant disruption.Kimpton said the work was necessary."We have got very specific planned disruption between our CRL-go-live, and that's designed to bring the network up to a standard to support the frequency that CRL anticipates, and that's the rail network rebuild programme."KiwiRail programme director Bobby Fischer said the short-term pain for commuters was part of a bigger picture."We're going through a significant period of investment in the network that is all in the lead up to CRL opening, once the CRL is open that level of disruption will reduce significantly."She said KiwiRail has run more than 1600 test trains on the network since February.Photo: RNZ/Calvin Samuel"There's a lot of system testing that's going on, from the signalling system right through to the station system - so the emergency systems testing, ventilation system etcetera, to make sure that when we open everything operates seamlessly as it's meant to," Fischer said.Auckland Councillor Andy Baker said the CRL build had been big for the city."Politicians we're always pretty keen to find something to grizzle about," he said."But I think there is, underneath it all, a level of excitement and acceptance that this is what it is."As for an exact date for next year's opening, Kimpton said that was still up in the air."There's still a lot to be done, and we don't want to promise a date until we're ready to promise a date, but you can be sure when we know, you'll know."This story was originally published by RNZ

Joint press release issued by Whangarei District Council, Kaipara District Council and Far North District Council. Whangarei, Kaipara and Far North District Councils have agreed to establish a Northland-wide Council Controlled Organisation (CCO) to deliver drinking water and wastewater services from July 2027. The recommendation to each council to form the CCO came after careful consideration by the Northland Local Water Done Well Working Group, which is made up of elected members and advisor David Hawkins, and supported by staff from each council to explore collaboration opportunities.Andrew Carvell, WDC General Manager for Waters, says that working together via a CCO offers greater long-term benefits and the strongest path forward for the region.“The new CCO will help ensure all of Northland can meet the increased compliance requirements under Local Water Done Well and address growth across the region, while ensuring charges are fair for the residents and ratepayers of each district,” says Mr Carvell. Advantages of the CCO include cost efficiencies through shared resources, reduced duplication and economies of scale over time, improved borrowing capacity, enhanced resilience through a larger, shared workforce, improved ability to deliver large-scale capital programmes and respond to legislative changes, as well as a commercially focused board and management team.A major focus for the Working Group was to determine a financial model that recognises the different starting points of each council in terms of water assets, debt levels and infrastructure investment needs.  “Councils have agreed to a model that will see financials ring-fenced for each district and have non-harmonised water charges to start with, meaning water charges are different for residents in each district,” says Mr Carvell.It is expected that during its first three years, the CCO would be able to identify and prioritise some of the critical issues each district is facing and then be in a position to review its approach to finances and water charges.   “There are still many details to work through, but we are exploring further measures to ensure the CCO will be equally beneficial for each district, and set the right path towards harmonised water charges,” says Mr Carvell.Stormwater assets would remain with each council in terms of decision making and costs, but a shared service arrangement could be made with the CCO for operations.All three councils will now work together to prepare a water services delivery plan, which must be submitted to Central Government by 3 September 2025.“As plans progress, each council is committed to working closely with any teams affected by the change,” says Mr Carvell.More information about Local Water Done Well can be found below:Kaipara District Council Whangarei District Council Far North District Council

Sam Sherwood, National Crime Correspondent & Kim Baker Wilson, Senior JournalistOranga Tamariki is looking into the care of a two-year-old found alive inside a suitcase in a bus luggage compartment.The toddler was found early Sunday afternoon by a driver of an InterCity bus from Whangārei to Auckland.A 27 year old woman has appeared in North Shore District Court charged with ill-treating a child.The child had been in the suitcase for nearly an hour wearing only a nappy, RNZ understands.Police were called at 12.50pm after a passenger asked for access to the luggage compartment during a planned stop in Kaiwaka, Northland.Do you know more? Email [email protected] Inspector Simon Harrison said the driver became concerned when he noticed the bag moving."When the driver opened the suitcase, they discovered the two-year-old girl," he said.Harrison said the little girl was reported to be "very hot", but otherwise unharmed.She was taken to hospital in a "minor" condition for an extensive medical assessment."We would like to acknowledge and commend the bus driver, who noticed something wasn't right and took immediate action, preventing what could have been a far worse outcome," Harrison said.The bus had stopped at this Kaiwaka carpark leading to the Tulip Cafe, Motel. Photo: Kim Baker Wilson / RNZ"Police inquiries into this incident are ongoing and further charges cannot be ruled out. Oranga Tamariki has also been notified."An InterCity spokesperson said the company was aware of an incident involving a passenger on one of its services earlier on Sunday."Police were called to respond, and they are now investigating the matter."No one was harmed during the incident and the service has resumed. As this is now an active police investigation, we are unable to comment further."Locals in Kaiwaka said they were shocked and saddened to hear what happened to the toddler.Kristel Faber who worked in the Kaiwaka Cheese Shop said the incident was "bizarre"."Just the thought of someone having that idea, putting a toddler in a suitcase... How can people think about doing that..."Another local woman who wished to remain anonymous said the situation was very sad."I was deeply saddened to hear such a thing, I mean who does that, puts their child in a suitcase and the suitcase is locked away with the other luggage?"She said knowing the toddler was alive and physically unharmed was a relief."I can't fathom how the bag was put in the bottom of the bus and not identified that there was movement in there at the time. I'm unsure about that, how did it get that far anyway?"Oranga Tamariki said it was working with the child's family to ensure they were safe.This story was originally published by RNZ

Warkworth / Rodney RegionMonday 4th August - Mainly fine, but cloudy periods increasing toward evening with a few showers developing north of Whangaparaoa. Southeasterlies.Tuesday 5th August - Partly cloudy. Strong easterlies.Wednesday 6th August - Fine, but becoming cloudy in the morning. Strong easterlies, easing.Thursday 7th August -Partly cloudy, with isolated showers clearing. Northeasterlies, becoming strong.Friday 8th August - Showers developing, some heavy. Strong northeasterlies, turning lighter westerly.Saturday 9th August - Showers. Southerlies.Sunday 10th August - Showers with southerlies.Mangawhai / Northland RegionMonday 4th August - Cloud increasing, with showers developing this morning. Easterlies, strong in exposed places.Tuesday 5th August - Mostly cloudy, with isolated showers. Strong easterlies.Wednesday 6th August - Mostly cloudy, with isolated showers developing in the evening. Strong easterlies.Thursday 7th August - Partly cloudy, with isolated showers developing. Northeasterlies, becoming strong.Friday 8th August - Rain with heavy falls, clearing. Northerlies, turning westerly.Saturday 9th -Showers. Southwesterlies.Sunday 10th - Showers with southwesterlies.

At Matakana Coast App, we’re rooted in the communities from Puhoi to Kaiwaka across to Mangawhai and down. As I reported a few weeks ago, the Dome a familiar drive is going to change radically. And while the forest may seem like a silent, slow-moving part of the landscape, its changes affect us all. From biodiversity to economics, visual beauty to road safety, forest decisions ripple through our lives.Since reporting on the Dome Forest I have been taking notice of how pleasant the drive is and appreciating the view as I drive through. The trees may fall quickly. But the story of the forest is not over. I have been thinking about the forest and wondering who owns and manages the Dome forest? Here is what I have found out.From Carter Holt to Corporate ForestryIn 2005, the land and forests you see in the Dome Valley were sold by Carter Holt Harvey, a long-standing Kiwi timber company, to an international consortium led by Rayonier Inc, a U.S.-based forestry corporation. That purchase, totalling over 94,000 hectares nationwide, marked the creation of Matariki Forests, which is now the third-largest forestry company in Aotearoa.Rayonier owns 77% of the venture, while Stafford Capital Partners, a UK investment group, control the remaining 23%. Day-to-day management falls to Rayonier New Zealand, who oversee operations in forest blocks across Northland, including right here in Wellsford’s backyard.The trees currently being harvested were likely planted between 1997 and 2000. Radiata pine typically matures around 28 to 30 years, and these stands are right on schedule. The felling was always part of the plan, though the construction of the new Ara Tūhono - Pūhoi to Wellsford motorway may have nudged the schedule for some blocks.Who Profits from the Pines?The harvest of Matariki Forest in Dome Valley is more than a local logging story. It’s a window into the complex machinery of international forestry investment, long-term land use planning, and what that all means for us the communities who live, work, and travel through these places every day.Once the radiata is harvested, the logs begin a journey that often ends far from where they started. Many head to ports like Marsden Point and Tauranga, bound for markets in China, South Korea, and Japan. And the profits? They flow back to shareholders overseas.While forestry companies pay local contractors, invest in road maintenance, and occasionally contribute to community funds, the lion’s share of revenue goes offshore. Rayonier Inc, listed on the New York Stock Exchange, distributes dividends globally. Stafford Capital manages forestry assets as part of international investment portfolios.It’s global capital, at work in our hills.Rayonier has confirmed that this area will be replanted in pine, continuing the 30-year cycle of planting, growth, and harvest. The land remains zoned for commercial forestry.That means we’ll likely see a new generation of trees begin to rise within the next 1-2 years. But the forest will never return exactly as it was. Each harvest brings with it new roads, erosion risks, biodiversity loss, and changes to water catchments. Replanting isn’t replacement.Some community voices have called for a future of more diverse planting native regeneration, mixed forestry, or at least ecological corridors within pine plantations. These ideas are gaining traction nationwide, but they rely on landowners being willing to forgo short-term profits for long-term benefit.In the case of Matariki Forests, that decision lies with overseas shareholders.

When Cath first offered Turbo Tonic to Leigh locals in lockdown, she swore she'd never make more than 100 bottles a week, never expand beyond the Matakana market and the “honesty fridge” that still sits at the front of her house, and certainly never take on a commercial lease or a "grown-up" bottling plant.Fast forward a few years and Cath has found herself in Never Never Land.Turbo Tonic started during COVID as a way to share the immunity-boosting and anti-inflammatory properties of turmeric with her community (as well as a drink that’s phenomenal when you’re feeling sick and helps soothe a sore throat). At the time, she was using a home fruit juicer to juice fresh turmeric and ginger root each week.The Turbo Tonic increased simply because people found it helped, and so word spread. She began selling it at the Matakana Farmers Market. One juicer became three, then six, then eleven, all operating at once in the small commercial kitchen in the basement of her house. Working full-time as a food tech teacher, she’d been hesitant to take that step, but the Matakana Markets were familiar ground—she’d previously run a couple of stalls there selling crêpes and Mexican food some years prior.The Turbo Tonic market stall only brought more attention to the product. Soon, stores were asking to stock it, and Cath had to make her first really big call: investing in an imported commercial juicer. Reluctantly, she decided it had to be done (turmeric has a habit of completely destroying home juicers) and bit the bullet—shipping one over from China and figuring out how to make it work, resigning from her teaching job and taking the plunge.From there, expansion happened quickly: employees, lime juice by the pallet, a walk-in chiller—all added to her property in Leigh.Then, a few months ago, and despite her best "Tetris-like" efforts to make everything fit, Cath was forced to acknowledge that there simply wasn’t enough space left on the property to meet the growing demand. Her driveway, now jam-packed with pallets, could no longer fit a car, and it didn’t feel right to subject her neighbours to what had effectively become an industrial operation.Incredibly, the Daily Organics bottling plant became available just at the right time, and Cath was encouraged to take another giant leap of faith and move her and her team into the fabulous facility that Delwyn and Brad had built over the previous eight years. And so now TT has a home of its own and plenty of room to grow.The fact that Turbo Tonic has come this far—despite its founder’s insistence that she’d never, ever sell more than a few bottles a week, and certainly never manufacture outside her home—is not due to big flashy marketing campaigns, but simply due to the fact that people have found "TT works" and have welcomed it into their daily wellness routines and recommended TT to friends and family.Cath is at pains to insist that she would not have arrived at where she is so happy to be, a place she'd never intended to get to, without the support of her incredible team, mentors, and this very special community.

NEMA has lifted the national advisory for the North and South Islands, however, it says a beach and marine threat remains in place for the Chatham Islands.It says strong and unusual currents will continue for the next 20 to 48 hours.Authorities have been reviewing the tsunami threat created by the huge earthquake off Russia two days ago.Beach and marine tsunami conditions were observed across the east coast of New Zealand last night, but they have now subsided to strong and unusual currents.There will be another update on the Chathams around 2pm.This story was originally published by RNZ

AN ANNOUNCEMENT FROM NORTHERN BASS...After 13 unforgettable years of delivering one of Aotearoa's most loved New Year's festivals, Northern Bass is shifting gears.This summer, Northern Bass will press pause on the traditional three-day, three-stage format and reimagine what the event looks like for 2025/26.The festival will return as NORTHERN BASS JNGL25, a tighter, more focused two-day experience (30th & 31st), centred around the iconic Jungle Stage and with more stage and entertainment details to come.This evolution allows the team to double down on what makes Northern Bass truly special: the energy, the vibe, the music, the production values, and the deep connection with its community."Last summer was a high point," says Festival Director Gareth Popham. "But behind the scenes, the squeeze was real. Attendance didn't quite hit the mark, and with the continued rise in production costs, it became clear that something had to change."NB JNGL25 is not a step back - it's a pivot. Festivals worldwide are facing similar pressures: economic uncertainty, audience expectations, and the increasing cost of hosting large-scale events. For Northern Bass, this is an opportunity to adapt without compromise, protecting what matters most and shaping the future experience.Northern Bass remains committed to returning to its full three-day format when the time is right. For now, the focus is on delivering the same unforgettable energy in a refined and intimate setting.With a tighter format, limited to just 6,000 tickets, NB JNGL25 will double down on the energy, music, and vibe that make it truly special.KEY INFORMATION, LINEUP + BUSES All tickets have now switched to the new NB JNGL25 model: more affordable 2-day and 1-day passes. If you already have a ticket - you’ll receive an email today with more information on credits, transfers and refunds.LINEUP drops Thursday, August 14 at 5.30pm - this one’s next level BUS TICKETS for NB JNGL25 are available now ->> https://tinyurl.com/2sbjd7uaDon’t wait to get your tickets - capacity is limited so once tickets are gone, they’re gone…Want more info on the changes? Visit our website ->> northernbass.co.nz/press-release

Emergency authorities say a tsunami threat to New Zealand from the giant quake off Russia's Kamchatka peninsula is likely to remain in force until at least midday.NEMA in its latest update a short time ago says tsunami activity has already reached parts of New Zealand.The first currents and surges are unlikely to be the largest and are expected to continue over many hours.It says the threat must be regarded as real until the tsunami alert is cancelled.https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/568466/live-warnings-in-place-as-tsunami-currents-reach-new-zealand-shores

Wednesday 30 Jul - last updated 12:57 pmWe expect New Zealand coastal areas to experience strong and unusual currents and unpredictable surges at the shore following a magnitude 8.7 earthquake near OFF THE EAST COAST OF KAMCHATKA RUSSIA at 2025-07-30 11:25 AM.Strong currents and surges can injure and drown people. There is a danger to swimmers, surfers, people fishing, and anyone in or near the water close to shore.People in or near the sea in the following areas should move out of the water, off beaches and shore areas and away from harbours, marinas, rivers and estuaries.AREAS UNDER THREAT:The West Coast of the North Island from CAPE REINGA to RAGLAN including the West Coast of Auckland and Manukau Harbour, and from HAWERA to WHANGANUI,The East and South Coasts of the North Island from CAPE REINGA to MAKARA including Whangarei, GREAT BARRIER ISLAND, the East Coast of Auckland, Waiheke Island, Waitemata Harbour, Tauranga, Whakatane, Opotiki, Gisborne, Napier, Lake Ferry, the Wellington South Coast and Wellington Harbour,The West Coast of the South Island from FAREWELL SPIT to MILFORD SOUND including Westport, Greymouth and Hokitika,The top of the South Island from FAREWELL SPIT to PORT UNDERWOOD including Nelson, Picton and the Marlborough Sounds,The East and South Coasts of the South Island from the CLARENCE RIVER to PUYSEGUR POINT including Kaikoura, Christchurch, Banks Peninsula, Timaru, Oamaru, Dunedin, the Otago Peninsula and Invercargill,STEWART ISLAND, and the CHATHAM ISLANDS.ADVICE FOR PEOPLE IN AREAS UNDER THREAT: STAY OFF THE BEACHES AND SHORE AREASPeople on boats, live-aboards and at marinas should leave their boats/vessels and move onto shore. Do not return to boats unless instructed by officials.There is no need to evacuate other areas unless directly advised by local civil defence authorities. Coastal inundation (flooding of land areas near the shore) is not expected as a result of this event. We are advising people to:Move out of the water, off beaches and shore areas and away from harbours, marinas, rivers and estuaries.Do not go to the coast to watch the unusual wave activity as there may be dangerous and unpredictable surges.Listen to local civil defence authorities and follow any instructions.Share this information with family, neighbours and friends.Strong and unusual currents and unpredictable surges will continue for several hours and the threat must be regarded as real until this Advisory is cancelled.This National Advisory has been issued following an assessment of information available. The situation may change as new information becomes available. Listen to the radio or TV for updates, or check www.civildefence.govt.nz

Two Worlds, One Vision: The Story of Leigh Courtenay’s Creative EnterprisesFrom Persian rugs to vintage rarities how one woman’s passion bridges the ancient and the eclectic. Nestled in the heart of the Matakana region, two uniquely characterful businesses Marcelline Rug Gallery and Matakana Old School share a common thread: the creative eye and entrepreneurial spirit of Leigh Courtenay.A seasoned businesswoman with a deep appreciation for quality, design, and heritage, Leigh has cultivated retail spaces that both inspire and delight. Though each business is distinct in offering, together they reflect her unwavering commitment to the beautiful, the storied, and the timeless.Marcelline Rug GalleryAt Marcelline Rug Gallery, the floor beneath your feet is anything but ordinary. Specialising in hand-knotted Persian and Oriental rugs, the gallery is a curated collection of heirloom textiles sourced from across the globe Iran, Turkey, Afghanistan, India, and more. Each piece is a masterwork of craftsmanship, saturated in tradition and designed to last for generations.Leigh’s passion for rugs began with travel and quickly became a calling. “Every rug tells a story of the hands that made it, the region it comes from, and the life it’s lived,” she says.From vibrant Persian design to soft, woollen neutrals. Leigh selects each rug for its unique character and integrity, offering her customers not just décor, but pieces of living history.Housed at the same address just a stones through from Matakana Village and within a beautifully preserved 120-year-old schoolhouse, is Matakana Old School Inc  Leigh’s second creative venture and a destination in its own right.Far from your average shop, this is a true retail experience, offering an ever-changing selection of vintage and industrial homewares, furniture, lighting, art, and all manner of delightful curiosities. Each piece sourced from both New Zealand and abroad is hand-picked for its individuality and charm, and no two visits are ever the same.From weathered factory stools to repurposed signage, retro lighting, quirky collectibles, and rustic tables, the inventory is refreshingly eclectic and undeniably authentic.“There’s a bit of old-school New Zealand in everything,” says Leigh. “It’s character-filled, it’s nostalgic, and a little bit cheeky.”Stock moves quickly, as many items are one-of-a-kind or limited in number. For treasure hunters, vintage lovers, or those seeking something just a little bit different, Matakana Old School is a place to wander, linger, and be surprised.One Soul, Two ExpressionsThough Marcelline Rug Gallery and Matakana Old School Inc. each offer a distinct experience, they are united by the spirit and sensibility of their owner. Leigh Courtenay brings an artist’s eye, a collector’s heart, and a businesswoman’s intuition to both endeavours, ensuring that each space she touches is filled with soul, quality, and personality.Whether you’re searching for a handcrafted Persian rug or a perfectly imperfect piece of vintage furniture, you’ll find more than just a product. You’ll find a story, a sense of connection and a little bit of Leigh’s passion in every corner.Both offerings are located at 745 Matakana Road, Matakana.Open Thursday to Sunday 9.30 to 4.30pm

Project update - July 2025Tēnā koe and welcome to the Northland Corridor newsletter.We’ve had a great response to our community information drop-in sessions and have met with over 600 people across 5 events in Kaiwaka, Waipū, Ruakākā and Whangārei to share progress on the Northland Corridor project. Thank you to everyone who came along to talk to us.Work on the project continues at pace. The procurement process for Ara Tūhono – Warkworth to Te Hana as a Public Private Partnership (PPP) is well underway. We answer some frequently asked questions about the PPP model below.We are now preparing to begin a range of geotechnical and environmental investigations from Te Hana to Port Marsden Highway and from Port Marsden Highway to Whangārei. These investigations are very important to help us work out where the best place for the new road will be and help us support the design and consenting of the project. Read on to learn more about the types of work we need to carry out.We know there is a lot of interest in our next steps. Once the preferred route from Te Hana to Whangārei has been to the NZTA board in August/September, we’ll be able to share more information.Great community turn out at drop-in sessionsThe drop-in sessions were well attended, showing the high level of interest in the project across Northland. Overall, people were pleased to hear more about the progress we have been making and there is continued support for the project with many people telling us to ‘get it done’.The sessions provided an opportunity for communities to learn about the project’s progress so far and understand more about next steps.This was also an opportunity for landowners in the emerging preferred corridor to meet the team, confirm next steps and timeframes for more detailed property discussions, and register additional contact details with us.What if I couldn’t make the information sessions?We know everyone is busy, so if you couldn’t make it to one of the events and you’d like to talk to us, feel free to contact us on [email protected] for landownersI’m a landowner in the emerging preferred corridor how do I register my details?So that we can contact landowners as quickly and efficiently as possible we want to make sure we have all the contact details of landowners who may be potentially affected.If you have received a letter from us advising that your property is in the study area, please register your contact details. Instructions about how to register your contact details are provided in the letter.It is quick and easy to register via the online form and only takes about one minute.If you have any questions about registering or can’t access the online form, please contact us by emailing [email protected] or phoning us on 0800 927 293.When will I know more information?Once the preferred route has been to the NZTA Board we will be able to share more information. We will liaise closely with landowners throughout to discuss the next steps.The timeline below shows next steps for Te Hana to Port Marsden Highway and Port Marsden Highway to Whangārei over the coming months. Click here to view a larger version of the project timeline.Upcoming Environmental and Geotechnical InvestigationsWe are starting to work with landowners along the corridor in the Te Hana to Port Marsden Highway and Port Marsden Highway to Whangārei sections to request permission to carry out important site investigations. Subject to NZTA board endorsement and landowners’ permission, we plan to get the investigations underway from August 2025.Our upcoming geotechnical investigations will assess subsurface ground conditions, including soil and rock types, groundwater conditions, and soil and rock strength, with samples taken for testing. Once the investigations are complete, we may continue to monitor the sites to understand the seasonal changes in groundwater levels and water quality.We’ll also carry out a variety of different environmental investigations to help us understand the local conditions and identify the various habitats and species that exist in the study area. This helps us to plan for any potential impacts and how we might mitigate them.Examples of environmental investigations we may need to undertake on private property include:Archaeology – identifying and managing any cultural heritage sites.Soil testing – ensuring land is suitable to use.Ecology – studying habitats of different species including kiwi, bats, lizards, bugs, fish and plants, also streams, to see how construction may impact nearby water.Land use and farming – identifying and confirming local land use and farming activities.Landscape, visual and natural character – investigations into how a new highway could impact the landscape and character of the area.Noise and vibration monitoring – measuring existing baseline noise so future noise impacts from the highway can be assessed and mitigated.Frequently asked questions - PPPWhat is a PPP?A PPP or public private partnership is a long-term contract for the delivery of a service which requires the construction of a new asset, in this case a road, and the maintenance and operation of this asset. The construction of the asset is financed from private sources, NZTA will only make payments once the asset is ready. Full legal ownership of the asset is at all times retained by the Crown.Why use a PPP model?The PPP model will improve the delivery of service outcomes from major public infrastructure assets by:Improving asset and service design by encouraging innovation and best practice from the private sectorIncentivising whole of life design and asset managementPayment for performanceAllocating risks to the parties who are best able to manage themWhen will you select a construction partner to build Ara Tūhono - Warkworth to Te Hana?Procurement is underway. Following a rigorous evaluation and selection process through the Expressions of Interest (EOI) phase, three shortlisted consortia are in the next stage of procurement, the Request for Proposals (RFP). The PPP contract is expected to be finalised by the middle of next year.Meet the teamMike Forrest – Property Workstream LeadTell us about yourself and your role:I’m the Property Workstream Lead for the Northland Corridor project. I am an experienced property professional with significant expertise in Public Works Act land acquisition for large infrastructure projects, property advisory and consultancy. I was the property acquisition manager for the Northern Corridor Improvements, Ara-Tuhono - Pūhoi to Warkworth, and even an earlier phase of Warkworth to Te Hana.My role involves supporting the overall project development, landowner engagement, and managing the property acquisition programme. Our call for landowners to register their contact details is really important to support this engagement and acquisition process in a smooth way.What excites you about the Northland Corridor project:I have a passion for solving challenges, especially on large complex projects like the Northland Corridor. A significant part of my career has been centred around the former Rodney District, so improving the transport connections for this community resonates with me.The Northland Corridor is an opportunity to deliver a legacy project for New Zealand and fully unlock the economic potential of Northland.