Ghost Town or Vibrant Town?

What sort of town do we want here in Warkworth?

After a successful outcome on the Watercare issue—a challenge that could have crippled our town—we now face the familiar seasonal hurdle: winter. For many retailers and hospitality businesses, this time of year is tough.

Lauren and I recently attended the BID Managers’ Conference in Albany, joined by representatives from across Auckland and as far as Hamilton and Christchurch. It’s always valuable to connect with others doing similar work and to share experiences.

Here are some key takeaways:

• Empty retail spaces and reduced foot traffic are a common theme across all town centres in New Zealand.
• Many shoppers are spending less, and online shopping continues to take its toll.
• Infrastructure works are causing disruption, making it harder for customers to access town centres.
• Several towns are rethinking opening hours and encouraging collaboration between businesses.

While we can’t match the promotional budgets of larger associations, we can work smarter—and we can work together.

The Retail Networking Night, OPEN FOR BUSINESS, we had planned for last night had to be postponed due to the terrible weather. It will now take place on Tuesday, 20th May at the Back Bar, Bridgehouse. This is an open invitation to all Warkworth retail and hospitality businesses and anyone with an interest in the town. We’ll use the evening to connect, share ideas, and explore low-cost ways to keep things moving through winter.

We’re also running a four-week social media workshop series starting 14 May, aimed at helping you make the most of your online presence. (Watch the promotional video below!) These sessions will be practical and valuable— more details to follow.

So the question is: Do we want Warkworth to be a ghost town—or a vibrant one? The answer lies with all of us. Business owners have the power to promote both their own enterprises and the town as a whole. And as locals, choosing to buy nearby rather than online can make all the difference.

I know what I choose: A Vibrant Town.

As we always say— we are StrongerTogether.

Murray Chapman

Manager, One Mahurangi, Warkworth

[email protected]

Autumn Assembly 2025 for BIDs and Business Associations | April 9th | Albany, Auckland

Due to the appalling weather, we had to postpone last night's networking event. The new date is TUESDAY the 20th of May. For more details about the event CLICK HERE> We look forward to seeing you all then!

WATCH THIS VIDEO > Burgs Digital is running a Modern Marketing Workshop Series for Warkworth Businesses starting this May! More details to follow!

Sole traders – get ready for the end of the financial year

With this easy-to-follow checklist, you can tick off the essential annual tasks of a sole trader and stay on top of your business admin.

READ MORE>

Warkworth Information Centre

Looking for wet-weather activities these school holidays? Pop into the Warkworth Information Centre for ideas, maps, and local tips from our volunteers.

📍 1 Baxter Street | 🕙 Mon–Fri 10–4

[CLOSED Public holidays and weekends]

🌐 onemahurangi.co.nz/warkworth-info-centre

You can now follow the Warkworth Information Centre on Facebook and Instagram! @visitwarkworth

Explore Warkworth, Mahurangi, and beyond!

YOU CAN READ THE FULL NEWSLETTER HERE