Watercare Public Meeting Update

Over the past week, quite a few people have asked me how many we expected to turn up for last night’s Watercare meeting at the Warkworth Town Hall.

Truthfully, I didn’t know. The heat seemed to have gone out of the process. It wasn’t like the last public meeting, when tensions were high and the community needed a place to vent.

Back then, people were frustrated—mainly because they felt they hadn’t been kept in the loop. Once we explained the confidentiality agreement we were working under with Watercare, most understood. But they still needed to voice concerns, particularly about the proposed pipeline through town.

Forgive the pun, but a lot of water has gone under the bridge since then. We’re now in a much better place. Communication with Watercare has been excellent, and their willingness to work alongside local businesses has been first-rate.

Around 45 people attended this week’s meeting—well down from the 200+ at the previous one. While that number might seem low, I take it as a sign that our communication has been clear and effective. People feel better informed.

Much of the discussion focused on Elizabeth Street. A few businesses there felt more could have been done to keep them updated. We’ve taken that on board. We'll be back out with Watercare and the contractor to meet with those businesses directly, and I’ll personally deliver the invitations once a date is set. If you’d prefer a one-on-one meeting with the team, just let me know—I’ll make it happen.

The questions raised were thoughtful and well-informed. I know Watercare and McConnell Dowell were genuinely impressed by the tone and substance of the conversation.

So, what do we take away from this? Is it time to move away from large public meetings, or do we still see value in them? Let me know your thoughts.

And finally, thanks to everyone who turned up on a wet night, and to Watercare and McConnell Dowell for fronting up and engaging so openly. When we communicate and work together, we get results.

We Are Stronger Together

Murray Chapman

Manager, One Mahurangi, Warkworth

[email protected]

Calling all retailers and hospitality businesses in Warkworth!

Join us for a relaxed and purposeful evening designed to connect local business owners, share real experiences, and work together on a coordinated approach to trading hours and foot traffic.

Whether you run a café, shop, salon, or restaurant, this is your chance to hear from others, share what’s working, and explore how we can strengthen Warkworth’s appeal to both locals and visitors.

• What’s Happening on the Night:Hear from local business owners about their experiences with public holiday trading and foot traffic.
• Mahurangi Matters will present a proposed marketing campaign to support local retailers and hospitality
• Learn about upcoming business support workshops focused on Online Marketing and Database Management
• Connect, collaborate, and contribute to a stronger, more unified business community

Thanks to the support and generosity of the Bridgehouse, the first *drink is on the house!

(*Beer, wine, or soft drink)

Event Details:

Wednesday 16 April 2025

From 6:00 PM

Back Bar, Warkworth Bridgehouse

**Free entry | One free drink on arrival |  Light snacks provided |  Cash bar available

 **RSVP now to secure your spot. Email [email protected]z

Drone Regulations

Navigating the skies with a drone is more than just a leisure activity - it requires an understand of specific regulations to ensure safety and compliance. 

For more information, read the full Buckton Consulting Surveyors article HERE>

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

Explore Warkworth, Mahurangi, and beyond!

Visit Gibbs Farm Sculpture Park & Support a Great Cause!

Here’s your chance to explore the amazing Gibbs Farm – a world-famous private sculpture park with epic large-scale artworks set in a breathtaking landscape. This spot isn’t open to the public often, so don’t miss out!

Date: April 10th

Where: Gibbs Farm, Kaipara Harbour

Tickets: https://events.humanitix.com/gibbs-farm-fundraiser

All proceeds go towards supporting local conservation efforts. Spaces are limited, so grab your tickets before they’re gone!

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