No, They’re Not Digging Up the Main Street

Warkworth 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 start

Local 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, Warkworth

[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 Update

It’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