Brighter Days Ahead

The sun is out today, and it feels like we might finally be turning a corner. After weeks of showers, it’s good to see people walking through town without having to dash for cover. You can sense the lift in mood – I think we’ve all had enough of winter.

The good news is we’re on the downhill run toward spring. That means pre-summer sales will soon be here – a great chance to pick up bargains and, more importantly, support our local businesses. There’s no need to head to Auckland when we’ve got everything we need right here in sunny Warkworth.

Our latest Marketview stats show consumer spending in the One Mahurangi, Warkworth BID (Business Improvement District) rose 4.6% in July 2025 compared with July last year. We’re sitting around 16th place among Auckland’s 57 BIDs for overall contribution to the Auckland economy. While we know many are still doing it tough, these results are encouraging, especially when compared with parts of Auckland showing declines. Warmer weather should bring more visitors to town and more business through your doors.

We’re also well into the local government election cycle. I have a lot of respect for anyone willing to put themselves forward for public office. Even if you don’t agree with a candidate’s policies, they deserve credit for standing up.

To help you make informed choices, we’re hosting two public meetings:

Mayoral Candidates Debate – 10 September, Town Hall, 5.30pm for a 6pm start

Local Board Candidates Discussion – 17 September, Back Bar at the Bridgehouse Hotel, 5.30pm for a 6pm start

Both are excellent opportunities to ask questions, hear directly from candidates, and meet them before or after the event. I encourage you to come along.

Murray Chapman

Manager | One Mahurangi Business Association, Warkworth

[email protected] | 0274 966 550

// Save the Dates //

Warkworth has the chance to hear directly from Auckland mayoral candidates. All questions will come from the floor, so this is your opportunity to raise the issues that matter most to our community. Facebook Event listing HERE>

Come along to hear from candidates standing in the Warkworth and the Northern Rodney Subdivisions. This is a chance to engage with those seeking to represent us on the Local Board and ask your questions in person. Facebook Event listing HERE> Click here for the list of Candidates in the 2025 Local Elections

Summary of Consumer Spending in Warkworth for July 2025

July was a positive month for Warkworth: spend rose 4.6% to $25.3m, outpacing Auckland (+0.7%) and New Zealand (+1.1%), while transactions grew 0.5%, ahead of the region (-0.7%) and national trend (-0.2%).

Over the last 12 months, both spend and transactions are up 1.5%, outperforming regional and national declines.

For the full breakdown, please read the Marketview report on our website or CLICK HERE>

// 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

// Community Noticeboard // 

Rodney Health Trust – Community Meeting

The Rodney Health Trust is working with local schools to help children access vital psychological assessments and support. These initiatives are making a positive difference for students, teachers, and families.

You’re invited to hear more and explore ways the community can get involved:

Tuesday 26 August, 5.30pm–6.30pm

Southgate Room, Warkworth Hotel

Complimentary drinks and nibbles provided.

For more information, contact Chris Murphy at [email protected] or CLICK HERE>

FOR THE FULL NEWSLETTER HEAD HERE