Peter de GraafWarkworth residents are frustrated and disappointed after long-promised improvements to a notorious intersection have been shelved once again.The Hill Street junction, about 60 kilometres north of Auckland, is often described as the worst intersection in New Zealand.It is a clogged tangle of roads where traffic is funnelled between the old State Highway 1, Matakana, east coast towns such as Snell's Beach, and Warkworth's town centre.One Mahurangi Business Association manager Murray Chapman described it as particularly dangerous."If you can imagine an intersection designed by somebody going through emotional turmoil. There's five roads leading into it. Some people bully their way through. Some people will sit at the give-way signs for what seems like hours because they're too scared to go anywhere," he said.Warkworth Lodge owner Liz Bays said the intersection actually had traffic coming from seven directions.AT had planned to replace the Hill Street intersection with two roundabouts. Photo: Supplied / Auckland TransportIt combined traffic lights, give-way and stop signs, a clear zone, turning bays and a pedestrian crossing, and was especially intimidating for out-of-towners."As a local, you know to look in all directions. Looking right doesn't apply. It's like look everywhere and then go. But people coming in, particularly in the busy season, are not quite aware of the complication of it until they're in amongst it. And that's when you get people screeching on brakes," she said.Warkworth residents have been lobbying roading authorities to fix the intersection for decades, and plans have been floated since at least 2010.In 2023, Auckland Transport announced a solution involving two roundabouts had finally been found, and construction would start within 12 months, funding permitting.However, a rejig of priorities meant the project no longer makes the cut in the government's 2024-27 roading funding plan, and it is not clear when it could be built after that.Chapman said he was gutted by the news."We thought we had it over the line. We'd worked with the Auckland Transport design team to make sure the community's voice was heard and Auckland Transport told us that they had their share of the money ready to go and we were under the impression that the NZTA also had their share of the money … and then to be told that the minister had kiboshed it just gave us a real sinking feeling in the stomach that once again, we'd been pushed off the timetable."While traffic volumes had dropped since the Northern Motorway was extended to a point just north of Warkworth, Chapman said that had not necessarily made the intersection safer because cars were now travelling through it at greater speed.Bays said news the project had again been shelved came out of the blue.The upgrade would have complemented other new infrastructure around Warkworth, and the twin-roundabout design would have future-proofed the town because it would be able to handle the area's fast growing population."I'm disappointed and surprised. It doesn't seem to be logical. Everything had been going very nicely with the new highway and the link roads. This was definitely part of the solution."Google Earth view of Warkworth’s complicated and confusing Hill Street intersection. Photo: Supplied / Google EarthResidents forced to run the Hill Street gauntlet most frequently includes those who live in Snell's Beach, including long-time resident Dave Parker.Parker said he was "totally disappointed" and urged roading authorities to reconsider their decision."I've lived here for most of my life, from the time I went to school and biked through it, so I've got to know the intersection pretty well. And with the huge increase in population that's occurring in the town, we're looking at perhaps another 30,000 people here in the next 10 to 15 years, that intersection's going to be under real pressure."Chapman agreed the time to fix the intersection was now, before the area's population soared, and while the government's share of the cost was a relatively modest $9 million."The major concern is that by delaying it, it's going to be at a time when the intersection is a lot busier, and there'll be more and more traffic disruption, but also the cost is going to be a lot greater. It's never going to be cheaper than doing it now."NZTA said the Hill Street intersection improvements were no longer included in the 2024-27 National Land Transport Programme, because they did not meet the priorities set by the new Government Policy Statement on Land Transport.Planning work for the upgrade, however, would continue.Transport Minister Simeon Brown said Auckland Transport's design for upgrades of the Hill Street intersection included at least five new speed bumps and three sections of cycleway.That did not align with the Government Policy Statement on Land Transport, or his expectation that investment in transport infrastructure would get back to basics."If Auckland Transport wish to advance this project, they will need to rework the design for the intersection to better align with the GPS and then re-submit it to NZTA for consideration of co-funding."Brown said the Puhoi to Warkworth motorway extension and the new Matakana Link Road had also significantly reduced pressure on the Hill Street intersection.This story was originally published by RNZ

Warkworth / Rodney RegionFriday 6th Dec - Fine apart from morning and evening cloud. Southwesterlies, easing this evening.Saturday 7th Dec - Fine, but becoming cloudy in the morning. Southwesterlies, easing at night.Sunday 8th Dec - Partly cloudy. Northerlies developing.Mangawhai / Northland RegionFriday 6th Dec - Fine apart from some evening cloud. Southwesterlies.Saturday 7th Dec - Fine, but becoming cloudy in the morning. Southwesterlies, easing in the morning.Sunday 8th Dec - Partly cloudy. Northerlies developing.

Summer is here and our town has a lot to offer!One of the joys of working at the Information Centre is meeting visitors from all over, hearing their accents, and learning about their journeys. As summer begins, the flow of visitors picking up brochures or seeking advice reminds us of how much our town has to offer.Our volunteers and staff do an incredible job promoting local businesses, sharing insights about Mahurangi’s attractions, and sometimes even helping with practical needs like finding a mechanic or doctor. Their friendly recommendations make a real difference—not just for visitors but for the businesses they mention.It’s heartening to hear visitors praise Warkworth’s charm, friendliness, and welcoming atmosphere. These small gestures—like a smile, a kind word, or taking time to answer questions—leave lasting impressions. When I travel, I’m reminded it’s these human touches that make the biggest difference.So, as the holiday season ramps up, let’s remember:A warm smile and good customer service can turn visitors into loyal patrons.Helping out, even if it’s just answering a question, builds goodwill for our town.A bustling town centre might feel like a bit of an inconvenience, but it’s a sign of economic activity supporting local businesses.Be patient with drivers who might not know their way around—many of us have been in their shoes while exploring new places.Businesses that depend on visitor spending thrive when we all create a positive experience.Invite visitors to return for our great events, from the Winter Festival to the Kowhai Festival, to the Santa Parade and beyond.Looking ahead, Saturday will be a huge day with the Santa Parade, Family Fun Day, and Carols in the Park. Thanks to the local businesses, schools, kindergartens, and groups who’ve signed up, the Parade is officially full! Make sure to enjoy the festivities, do some Christmas shopping, and soak in the magic of our community coming together.Together, we’re stronger—and that’s what makes our town so special.Murray ChapmanManager, One Mahurangi Business Association@onemahurangi // On our social platforms:Keith Hay Homes has built this delightful playhouse and is generously donating it as a prize at the Warkworth Santa Parade! Imagine the joy on your little one’s face when they see this magical space to play and dream.To be in with a chance to win:Fill out an entry form – available at the gazebo at Baxter Street Reserve right after the parade.Be present at Baxter Street Reserve at 5:30 PM for the prize draw.Bonus: If you live within 10km of Warkworth, Keith Hay Homes will even deliver the playhouse right to your doorstep! Don’t miss this opportunity – it’s the perfect way to add a little extra Christmas magic to your family celebrations. See you in Warkworth, 7th Dec from 2pm! Bonus Santa Encounter for Warkworth Residents | Tues 10th Dec from 6pmMark your calendars for Tuesday, 10th December 2024—it’s time to welcome Santa, Mrs Claus, and the amazing team from the Warkworth Volunteer Fire Brigade as they bring festive cheer to the streets of our town! Route Highlights: The sleigh will start from ITSS on Morrison Drive at 6 PM, traveling through Warkworth's residential streets, spreading joy and holiday cheer. The journey wraps up back at ITSS around 7 PM. Check the map for the full route!Sweet Treats Alert: Santa’s helpers will be handing out lollies to kids along the wayBusiness Health Check SurveyOne Mahurangi is committed to supporting you and your business. That’s why we’re asking for just 2 minutes of your time to complete our Business Health Check survey.  Your feedback helps us understand your needs better and shape our initiatives to benefit the local business community.To take the survey now CLICK HERE>TO READ THE FULL NEWSLETTER HEAD HERE

Hon Chris PenkAdditional funding in Budget 2024 has reduced the waiting list of veterans seeking medical and rehabilitation support, Veterans Minister Chris Penk says.“When we were elected a year ago, the Government made a commitment to improve New Zealand’s public services. As Veterans Minister this means improving access for veterans to treatment and rehabilitation when they need it,” Mr Penk says.“My number one goal when I took on this role was to reduce wait times for veterans, which is why Budget 2024 invested an extra $4 million dollars over four years directly into Veterans’ Affairs to speed up processing times of applications.“While there is still more work to address the significant backlog that built up during Covid, it is good to see the numbers now turning around, with Veterans’ Affairs using the additional funding to clear 500 claims from their backlog.“At its worst, Veterans’ Affairs had a backlog of 2,807 open claims. This has now reduced to 2,305, which represents a decrease of more than 17 per cent.“New Zealand’s veterans have sacrificed so much for our country, and it is simply unacceptable that some were waiting more than a year to receive the support they deserve.“It is clear to me that there is still a large task ahead of us to reduce processing times to an acceptable level. A recent decision of the Veterans Entitlement Board that would expand coverage beyond that currently administered under the legislation will influence Veterans Affairs’ ability to continue with this positive trend, so those implications need to be considered carefully.“In the meantime, I am delighted that the additional funding provided by our Government has had made a measurable difference to improve outcomes for Kiwi veterans.”

A massive dead whale has been spotted floating in the waters near Tāwharanui,  off the coast of Omaha.Boaties are urged to exercise caution, especially at night, as the whale may not be visible and could pose a collision risk.Michele MacKenzie, who discovered the whale, captured some incredible close-up photos of it.DOC and local Iwi have been notified, but the tide and wind are pushing the whale towards deeper waters near the southern end of Little Barrier.Please stay vigilant and take care.

Upcoming Christmas Events to Bring Joy to Our CommunityThe festive season is upon us, and there’s no shortage of events to enjoy in the lead-up to Christmas! Here’s what’s happening in and around the area to get you into the holiday spirit:🎄 Treemendous Christmas Tree Display & Meet Santa Daily from 10 AM to 5 PM, Saturday 30th November – Sunday 8th December Explore a dazzling Christmas tree display and meet Santa in person! Perfect for families and festive enthusiasts alike.🎅 Saturday 7th DecemberHighfield Donkey Santa Fun Day 11 AM – 1:30 PM, 483 Mahurangi East Road, Algies Bay Meet the donkeys, enjoy fun activities, and grab a festive treat!Warkworth Santa Parade 2024 2 PM – 8 PM Watch the streets come alive with floats, music, and Christmas cheer. An evening not to be missed!Puhoi Christmas Movie Night 4 PM – 9 PM Cosy up under the stars with a festive family film at Puhoi.🎁 Friday 13th DecemberPre-Xmas Youth Market 5 PM – 8 PM, Shoesmith Hall, Warkworth Support young entrepreneurs and find unique Christmas gifts while enjoying a festive atmosphere.⭐ Saturday 14th DecemberPuhoi Village Market - Christmas Twilight Market!! 3 PM – 7 PM Stroll through the twilight market, enjoy live music, and pick up locally crafted Christmas goodies.Hogwarts Christmas - An Evening for Book LoversJoin us at Hogwarts for a special Christmas event – witches, wizards and muggles welcome!Step into a magical book club event inspired by J K Rowlings’ infamous Harry Potter universe.🎄 Sunday 15th DecemberFamily Fun Hogwarts Christmas - For Book Lovers3 shows; Sun 15 Dec 10:00am–11:00am; 11:30am–12:30pm; 1:00pm–2:00pmMark your calendars and make the most of this festive season. There’s something for everyone—head along, bring your family, and have a very Merry Christmas!

The nationwide strike will be a complete withdrawal of labour at every Te Whatu Ora facilityIt will be held from 11am to 7pm on TuesdayLife-preserving services will continueCollective contract negotiations are deadlockedThe nationwide strike will be followed by rolling district strikes, with details yet to come.About 36,000 nurses, midwives and healthcare assistants are walking off the job for eight hours today over what they say are critical threats to patient safety.Nurses Organisation chief executive Paul Goulter said collective bargaining had stalled over "the big ticket items", which centred on patient safety.Union members were particularly worried about Health New Zealand's plan to pause the Care Capacity Demand Management programme, he said.That calculates the number of staff and the skill mix needed to safely care for patients according to how sick they are, in real time."Ultimately, patients will pay the price for hospitals that are continuously understaffed and under-resourced," Goulter said.Members were also disappointed with Te Whatu Ora restricting "bargaining parameters" for the settlement to 1 percent of total employee costs.This would equate to just 0.5 percent in the first year, and up to 1 percent in the second year."This means nurses, midwives, health care assistants and kaimahi hauora will be offered a wage increase well below the rate of inflation - and effectively a pay cut. Nurses should not have to prop up the health system by taking cuts in pay," Goulter said."This could lead to a further exodus of New Zealand nurses to Australia. Nurses need a pay rise that reflects at least the cost of living and recognises their skills and knowledge."Cost-cutting hurting patient care, nurses sayWaikato nurse Tracy Chisholm said the "lack of respect" by management and the government for nurses "needs to be called out"."For me it's about safety - the safety of our patients. How do we provide culturally safe care without the nurses to do it; how do we educate, prevent deterioration and further harm without the nurses to provide; how do we meet the governments health Kaupapa without the nurses?"Rotorua nurse Lyn Logan said Te Whatu Ora's constant financial constraints were impacting patient care."When we are under-resourced and understaffed, we do not have enough healthcare workers to give the best care, and our patient's care will suffer as a result."For me, it's about informing the public who use health services, and my community, that if I do not strike then I am not committed to improving health services in my region. I want to give our community the best care I can when they come into the hospital, at present I cannot do this."Christchurch nurse Debbie Handisides said she was striking for future nurses and patients."We have fought for years for nurses to be paid equally to a male comparator, but with the parameters that Te Whatu Ora are proposing up to 1 percent total cost of a nurse won't even meet the household cost of living, so why would anyone pick nursing as a career if they can't pay their household bills?"Plans in place - Health NZHealth New Zealand said hospitals and emergency departments would remain open during the strike action.Deputy chief executive Northern Mark Shepherd said to "maintain patient safety", some clinics would be closed."However, if you have a hospital appointment tomorrow (Tuesday), please come to your appointment unless we have contacted you directly to reschedule."Any appointments that are deferred due to the strike action will be rescheduled for the next available opportunity."A patient with an outpatient appointment at Wellington Hospital said she was only informed on Monday that it had been cancelled and rebooked for February.Shepherd said Health NZ valued the contribution of its nursing workforce - but was "disappointed that strike action is being taken so early in the bargaining process"."We are committed to reaching a settlement with NZNO. Any settlement needs to reflect the ongoing reset of Health NZ as we work to get back to budget and complete the restructuring underway. "Shepherd said nurses' salaries had "outperformed the broader labour market outcomes" in recent years, with pay rates for mid career nurses rising by 28 percent since 2016, plus additional 23 percent from the recent pay equity settlement.But Goulter said it was misleading to include the pay equity settlement, which was meant to compensate nurses for historic sex-based discrimination."Te Whatu Ora has completely failed to recognise that you can't conflate that with nurses' legitimate request to receive at least the cost of living movement as well as recognising the value they bring to their work."I think in a way it's quite insulting."This story was originally published by RNZ

SH1 Auckland Harbour Bridge 5:30PM A breakdown is blocking the left northbound lane (lane 1 of 4) on Auckland Harbour Bridge. Pass with care and expect delays.SH20 NORTHBOUND WATERVIEW TUNNEL 5:35PM A breakdown is blocking the right lane in the Northbound Waterview Tunnel. Pass with care and expect some delays until cleared. SH20 SOUTHWESTERN MWY 5:25PM A crash is blocking the #SH20 southbound Hillsborough Rd on-ramp. Merge with care and expect delays.

Dozens of Auckland beaches are on high alert, with some closures in place, following reports of elevated faecal bacteria levels.At least 25 beaches across the city have been identified as high-risk, with Safeswim water quality models predicting contamination levels that exceed national safety standards.Four central Auckland beaches—Herne Bay, Home Bay, Judges Bay, and Te Tinana—have been closed due to wastewater overflow.Beachgoers are being advised to avoid swimming at beaches under high-risk alerts issued by Safeswim.Beaches north of Mairangi Bay are currently marked safe for swimming, with the exception of Algies Bay.At Algies Bay, a warning has been issued due to thick algae mats. Auckland Council is conducting tests to determine whether the algae is toxic. Until the results are confirmed, visitors are advised to avoid contact with the algae, refrain from swimming, and avoid collecting or eating shellfish in the area.Additionally, a rāhui is in place at Waipū Beach following a drowning earlier this weekend. Visitors are asked to respect the rāhui and avoid entering the water in this area.Residents and visitors are encouraged to check the latest updates on Safeswim’s website at www.safeswim.org.nz before heading to the water to ensure their safety.

Warkworth / Rodney RegionMonday 2nd Dec - Mainly fine, apart from areas of morning cloud. Light winds.Tuesday 3rd Dec - Fine. Northerlies, easing in the afternoon.Wednesday 4th - Fine. Westerlies.Thursday 5th - Mostly cloudy, with the chance of a shower. Westerlies, becoming fresh.Friday 6th - Partly cloudy with southwesterlies.Saturday 7th - Partly cloudy. Westerlies.Sunday 8th - Partly cloudy with northwesterlies.Mangawhai / NorthlandMonday 2nd Dec - Fine, some morning cloud. Easterlies.Tuesday 3rd Dec - Fine. Northerlies, easing in the evening.Wednesday 4th - Fine. Southwesterlies developing.Thursday 5th - Partly cloudy. Westerlies.Friday 6th - Rain, clearing and becoming fine. Southwesterlies.Saturday 7th - Partly cloudy. Light winds.Sunday 8th - Partly cloudy with northwesterlies.

Monique Steele, JournalistAvocado growers say causes for optimism this season include a "kinder" spring and less-than-expected production from Australia.Production volumes for the 2023/2024 season in Australia rose 30 percent on the year before to nearly 151,000 tonnes, according to Avocados Australia.But some of those growers - mostly from Western Australia and Queensland - were facing low prices and struggling with high farm input costs.Some reportedly abandoned their orchards all together because they were unprofitable.Last season, bad weather in Aotearoa flooded the domestic market with lower quality fruit, while Australia grew more of its own avocados, causing a glut and pushing down returns for growers.The 2020/2021 season was a bumper one which saw the export crop value hit nearly $168 million which had only decreased since, down to $20m in 2023/2024, according to figures from industry group New Zealand Avocado.New Zealand Avocado Growers' Association vice-president, Anna St George said last year New Zealand exported 1.3 million trays - and this season about half of the 6.8 million trays expected this season were headed abroad.She said growers have exported 1.3 million trays in the September quarter alone, which is 360,000 more trays than the same time in 2020 when exports spiked.Now, they were 83 percent through picking due to higher demand this season, she said - as Asian markets continued to grow, Australia suffered severe weather events this season and production from competitor Peru was down this year too.Ross Woods ran the 35 hectare family avocado orchard at Maungakaramea southwest of Whangārei.He and his team of about nine were mid-harvest and pulling in about seven tonnes of avocado daily - in addition to pruning, mowing and spraying tasks.Ross Woods sending off avocados picked off his family avo orchard in Maungakaramea southwest of Whangārei. Pickers are collecting about 7 tonnes each day. Photo: SUPPLIED/Ross WoodsThe veterinary surgeon who first planted avocado trees in 1998, said the weather had been amazing so far this season, especially during picking; much kinder than previous years."This season, generally it's been amazing. We've had lots of fine picking weather," Woods said."By and large this year, it's been a lot kinder than previous years."Woods exported his fruit through avocado marketer and exporter Avoco.He said he felt optimistic about this season's pricing - "mainly because of the shortages in Australia"."We've had fruit going this year to Canada, throughout Asia and quite a lot to Australia," Woods said."Australia are having a shortage this year, so the pricing this year seems to be OK."Kathy Woods at her family avocado orchard in Maungakaramea southwest of Whangārei. Photo: SUPPLIED/Ross WoodsHe said they were waiting to see what the payout would be, but "cash-flow isn't huge at the moment" - so no new plantings this year."We're just trying to maintain the orchard and do the general health stuff while at the same time getting the crop off."There was some time to head down to the beach and relax in summer - but not until about the end of January once the export season had finished, Woods said."Basically, February, March things we'll put our feet up a bit... before March and April more pruning. There's always something to do."This story was originally published by RNZ

Patuharakeke Kaumātua have placed a rāhui at Waipu in Northland after the death of a woman at the Waipu River mouth on Saturday.Emergency services were called at about Friday midnight after the woman's friends observed her entering the water, but not returning.The Whangārei Coastguard, Waipu Cove Surf Life Saving Club and a rescue helicopter all undertook an initial search in the early hours of the morning, but were unable to find any sign of her.The search resumed at about 8am and the woman was found by volunteers from Coastguard Whangārei around midday.As a sign of respect the community has been asked to refrain from ocean-based activities in the area until 12pm, Wednesday 4 December.The rāhui extends from the Waipu Boat Club out to the Waipu River mouth, and from Uretiti - Tip Rd to Waipu Cove extending out 5km seaward.

Unless otherwise stated, closures start at 9pm and finish at 5am. Traffic management may be in place before the advertised closure times for the mainline. NORTHERN MOTORWAY (SH1) • Northbound lanes between Northcote Road off-ramp and Constellation Drive on-ramp, 1-5 December (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)o Tristram Avenue northbound on-ramp, 1-5 December (approx. 9:30pm to 5:00am)o Northcote Road northbound on-ramp, 1-5 December (approx. 9:30pm to 5:00am)• Stafford Road northbound off-ramp, 1-5 December• Curran Street northbound on-ramp, 1-5 December SOUTHERN MOTORWAY (SH1) • Southbound lanes between East Tamaki Road off-ramp and Manukau on-ramp, 5 December (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)o East Tamaki Road southbound on-ramp, 5 Decembero SH1 southbound to SH20 northbound link, 5 December (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)• Southbound lanes between Takanini off-ramp and Papakura on-ramp, 1 December (approx. 9:30pm to 5:30am)o Takanini southbound on-ramp, 1 December (approx. 9:30pm to 5:30am)o Papakura (Loop) southbound on-ramp, 1 December (approx. 9:30pm to 5:30am)• Papakura southbound off-ramp, 2-5 December• Papakura (Loop) southbound on-ramp, 2 & 5 December• Papakura (Diamond) southbound on-ramp, 3-4 December• Papakura northbound off-ramp, 1-2 & 5 December• Northbound lanes between Papakura off-ramp and Takanini on-ramp, 3-4 Decembero Papakura (Diamond) northbound on-ramp, 3-4 Decembero Papakura (Loop) northbound on-ramp, 3-4 December• Southbound lanes between Drury/SH22 off-ramp and Ramarama on-ramp, 2-3 & 5 Decembero Drury/SH22 southbound on-ramp, 2-3 & 5 December• Southbound lanes between Drury/SH22 off-ramp and Bombay on-ramp, 4 Decembero Drury/SH22 southbound on-ramp, 4 Decembero Ramarama southbound on-ramp, 4 December• Northbound lanes between Bombay off-ramp and Ramarama on-ramp, 4 Decembero Bombay northbound on-ramp, 4 December• Bombay northbound off-ramp, 5 December• Beaver Road northbound on-ramp, 5 December• Beaver Road northbound off-ramp, 5 December• Nikau Road northbound on-ramp, 5 December• Nikau Road southbound off-ramp, 1 December• Southbound lanes between Nikau Road off-ramp and Nikau Road on-ramp, 3 December (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)• Northbound lanes between Ridge Road off-ramp and Nikau Road on-ramp, 3 December (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)o Razorback Road southbound off-ramp, 3 December (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)o SH1 southbound to SH2 eastbound link, 3 December (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)• Southbound lanes between Pokeno off-ramp and Pokeno on-ramp, 3 December (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)• Northbound lanes between Pokeno off-ramp and Pokeno on-ramp, 3 December (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)• Southbound lanes between Mercer off-ramp and Mercer on-ramp, 1 December (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)• Northbound lanes between Mercer off-ramp and Mercer on-ramp, 1 December (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)o Pokeno northbound off-ramp, 1 December (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)• Southbound lanes between Mercer off-ramp and Mercer on-ramp, 2 December (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)o Pokeno southbound off-ramp, 2 Decembero Pokeno southbound on-ramp, 2 December• Northbound lanes between Mercer off-ramp and Mercer on-ramp, 2 December (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)NORTHWESTERN MOTORWAY (SH16) • Southbound lanes between Foster Road and Riverhead Road, 6 December (approx. 6:00pm to 8:00pm)• Northbound lanes between Riverhead Road and Foster Road, 6 December (approx. 6:00pm to 8:00pm)• Southbound lanes between Waimauku Roundabout and Trigg Road, 1 December (approx. 6:00pm to 6:00am)• Northbound lanes between Trigg Rd and Waimauku Roundabout, 1 December (approx. 6:00pm to 6:00am)• Northbound lanes between Foster Rd and Trigg Rd, 2-4 December (approx. 8:00pm to 5:00am)• Southbound lanes between Trigg Rd and Foster Road, 2-4 December (approx. 8:00pm to 5:00am)• Southbound lanes between Waimauku Roundabout and Trigg Road, 5 December (approx. 8:00pm to 5:00am)• Northbound lanes between Trigg Rd and Waimauku Roundabout, 5 December (approx. 8:00pm to 5:00am) UPPER HARBOUR MOTORWAY (SH18) • Westbound lanes between Trig Road off-ramp and Hobsonville Road on-ramp, 4 December (approx. 8:30pm to 5:00am)o SH18 westbound to SH16 southbound link, 4 December (approx. 8:30pm to 5:00am)• Hobsonville Road westbound off-ramp, 1-3 & 5 December (approx. 8:00pm to 5:00am) SOUTHWESTERN MOTORWAY (SH20) • Northbound lanes between Maioro Street on-ramp and SH16 links (Waterview northbound tunnel closed), 2 Decembero Maioro Street northbound on-ramp (Waterview northbound tunnel closed), 2 December• Southbound lanes between Walmsley Road off-ramp and Massey Road on-ramp, 30 November & 7 December (approx. 7:00pm to 10:00am)o Walmsley Road southbound on-ramp,30 November & 7 December (approx. 7:00pm to 10:00am) STATE HIGHWAY 2 (SH2) • SH2 westbound to SH1 southbound, 3 December

Update – missing woman, Waipu River mouthThe woman reported missing at the Waipu River mouth has now sadly been located deceased.She was found by volunteers from Coastguard Whangārei around midday today.Her death will be referred to the Coroner.A search for a woman missing near the mouth of the Waipu River will resume this morning.Emergency services were called about 12am after the woman’s friends observed her entering the water but not returning.Coastguard and Waipu Surf Life Saving assisted to conduct shoreline searches, however sadly the woman was not located.The search was due to resume about 8am this morning.Further information will be provided as it becomes available.

Section 1 update: Ara Tūhono – Warkworth to Te HanaAra Tūhono – Warkworth to Te Hana continues to progress at pace with the geotechnical team expanding recently to include ecologists and archaeologists. Our ecologists are working with the geotechnical team to develop a methodology for vegetation clearance during site investigations in Matariki Forest, and our archaeologists have been assessing all geotechnical sites for possible heritage discoveries.The name Ara Tūhono was gifted to the project by Treaty partners, Hōkai Nuku and means ‘a connecting pathway’. This is exactly what this Road of National Significance will deliver, offering a gateway to the North, unlocking and boosting its economic potential. Hōkai Nuku is the authorised voice of four Iwi and Hapū mana whenua – Ngāti Manuhiri, Te Uri o Hau, Ngāti Rango of Kaipara and Ngāti Whātua. We have worked in partnership with Hōkai Nuku since 2010 when they originally formed to collaborate on the Ara Tūhono - Pūhoi to Wellsford project. They will continue to provide valuable specialist cultural and environmental advice for the Ara Tūhono -Warkworth to Te Hana stage of the Northland Corridor RoNS.Recently we published this video flyover of Ara Tūhono – Warkworth to Te Hana. It shows the proposed route for the corridor and includes an impression of how the design could look.Section 2 & 3: update: Te Hana to Whangārei We’re moving quickly to make decisions on Sections 2 & 3 of the Northland Corridor and expect to confirm an emerging preferred route for north of Te Hana in the first quarter of 2025. We’re continuing our conversations with key stakeholders including local councils. Last week we met with the Kaiwaka community to share the options we are looking at in their part of the corridor. We were asked some insightful questions, and it was great to hear the buzz in the community and their positivity towards the project. Brynderwyn Hills recovery work We’d like to thank the community for their patience while we undertook the essential Brynderwyn Hills recovery work. Works are almost complete with only a final coat of asphalt still to go. This couldn’t be done during the closure, as all other work needed to be completed first and the asphalt can only be applied in warm, dry weather. To ensure the quality and longevity of the final coat of asphalt it also needs to be applied when there are no vehicles on the road. We know how important it is for people who use this road for it to be open this summer, so we have put off the final reseal, which needs to be done under a full closure, to late 2025. Traffic management will be in place in the meantime including the passing lane remaining closed. Summer maintenance programme - chipsealing We’re investing in the largest road rebuild programme ever for Northland this summer maintenance period, along with resealing and resurfacing sites across the region. Warmer spring and summer months are the best time for resurfacing as daylight hours are longer and the warm temperatures and dry air help the new seal stick to the road surface. Chipsealing helps ensure a smooth, skid-resistant surface, free of potholes and slippery sections to reduce the risk of crashes and help keep everyone traveling on our roads safe. For a period of at least 24 hours after a site has been sealed, and before it is swept, it continues to operate under a reduced temporary speed limit while vehicles travel over the seal and help “bed in” the chip. Following this, the site is swept, excess chip is removed, and the temporary speed limit remains in place until line marking has been reinstated within 48 hours of the site being sealed, weather dependent. Keeping to temporary speed limits protects your vehicle from stone chips, keeps you and our workers safe and helps the surface bed in, meaning a longer stretch before we need to come back for more maintenance. We appreciate lots of roadworks happening across the network at once means your journey may take a little longer, but the work we do is really important to help improve your roads and make everyone’s journey safer and more enjoyable. Keep up to date with works happening near you and plan your journey using our journey planner.

Jessica Hopkins, Councillors in Whangārei have voted not to fluoridate the district's water.The vote goes against a directive from former director general of health Sir Ashley Bloomfield.A local dentist says Northland's oral health is in a dire state.Whangārei District Council has voted to reject the Ministry of Health's directive to add fluoride to its water supply.After over an hour's discussion in front of a packed public gallery on Thursday, councillors voted seven to six, with one abstaining, to halt fluoridation plans.Whangārei mayor Vince Cocurullo, deputy mayor Phil Halse, and councillors Jayne Golightly, Phoenix Ruka, Marie Olsen, and Simon Reid supported the motion put forward by councillor Gavin Benney.Councillor Deborah Harding abstained from voting.WDC was one of 14 councils identified as the most high-risk for dental disease and required to fluoridate its water by March 2025 under a directive from former director general of health Sir Ashley Bloomfield in 2022.Cocurullo said the WDC had been warned it would be fined $200,000 if it failed to fluoridate and an additional $10,000 per day it ignored the directive after the deadline."We are asking the government to work with us."We have made our concerns very clear. We have listened to our community and that is why the vote was the way it was."It will be up to them to decide how they want to progress with this."The mayor said he would be writing to the Ministry of Health, Health Minister Shane Reti, and the government advising them of the council's decision.He believed adding fluoride to the water supply would not help the district's dental health problems. Educating people about good hygiene and eating a balanced diet from a young age was a better way to improve oral health, he said.Whangārei mayor Vince Cocurullo. Photo: Supplied / Sarah Marshall Photography"Within our community we have people who don't drink water and haven't been taught proper hygiene when brushing their teeth."I've seen many young mums with juice, Coca-Cola, and Fanta in their children's milk bottles."That's more of an issue and it's actually a systemic problem for the whole of New Zealand as well as Northland."Councillor Scott McKenzie said the council should not be challenging the directive."I don't see council having the authority to make that decision. It's a directive that the council is legally obliged to comply with."He was concerned about the council having to pay out of pocket for new fluoridation infrastructure.The government agreed to pay over $4.5m for infrastructure that had already been installed into the district's water plant, he said. The council had received half the payment, but getting the rest of the money was dependant on following the directive."The decision means the council will likely have to find $2.28 million in unbudgeted funding."A spokesperson for Fluoride Free, a group against fluoridation, praised the decision.Mary Byrne and WDC councillors cited recent court rulings in the United States as justification for their concerns about fluoride in water."Councillors who voted to stop it stood up for the community in the threat of huge fines," Byrne said.Dental Association president Amanda Johnston said she was disappointed by the outcome.Community water fluoridation, as well as fluoridated toothpaste, brushing teeth, and reducing sugar consumption, were safe and effective tools to prevent tooth decay, she said.The Whangārei dentist said Northland had a dire state of oral health and needed all the help it could get."We've got children, and aged care residents with teeth decaying - the entire population actually."We know people in low socio-economic areas are more prone to having dental decay and are less able to access treatment when they need it."This decision will mean the burden of disease will continue for those who can't afford to treat it."This story was originally published by RNZ

Warkworth / Rodney RegionThursday 28th November - Fine spells. Cloud increasing tonight. Southwesterlies.Friday 29th November - Mostly cloudy, with the chance of a light morning shower, but afternoon sunny spells. Southwesterlies.Saturday 30th November -Occasional rain from morning. Northeasterlies developing in the afternoon.Sunday 1st December - Occasional rain, clearing to fine in the afternoon. Northeasterlies.Mangawhai / Northland RegionThursday 28th November - Fine. Southwesterlies.Friday 29th November - Cloudy periods. Southwesterlies.Saturday 30th November - Fine, but becoming cloudy in the morning. Light windsSunday 1st December - Partly cloudy, with the chance of a shower. Northeasterlies, easing.

Police investigating the theft of more than $100,000 in farming machinery have located the items after executing a search warrant at a Mangawhai address.Sergeant Dan McDermott, Wellsford Police Station Officer in Charge, says a John Deere Tractor and post rammer were stolen from a Tauhoa property in August.“Since then, Police have been working hard to establish who was responsible and where the items were.“On Sunday, we executed a search warrant and located both stolen items, as well as an implement trailer, a digger and a wood chipper.”Sergeant McDermott says all items, except the wood chipper, had been returned to their rightful owners.“We are now looking for the owner of a missing or stolen Hansa C13 Wood Chipper to come forward.“Identifying features have been removed and Police are seeking information from the public as to who the chipper may belong to.”Police will require proof of ownership.Victims of the tractor theft thanked Police for their work in locating and returning their stolen items.“This theft has had a massive impact on our livelihood, and has also made both us and the wider community feel unsafe.“Police can’t solve these crimes alone and it takes a community to hold offenders to account.“We would like to thank the wider community for supporting us, and thank the Police for their persistence with the investigation.”If you have any information that could help our enquiries, update us online now or call 105.Please use the reference number 241125/7163.Information can also be provided anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111

The ‘Let’s Protect Our Environment’ consultation is open now until 8 December 2024 and Auckland Council is inviting Aucklanders to have their say.As part of the consultation, we are seeking your feedback on what the right balance is for biodiversity protection and recreation at Lake Tomarata. This includes the possibility of expanding how we manage existing, introduced and invasive species to more of the region’s lakes.Cr Richard Hills, Chair of the Policy and Planning Committee encourages those who know Lake Tomarata the best to have their say.“It’s really important that we hear from the local community – the ones that access Lake Tomarata and know it best. This will help ensure we have wide ranging views and feedback from community to assist our decision-making.”Protecting our freshwater lakesOur lakes, streams and wetlands face many challenges, such as habitat loss, pollution from excess nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus, sediment build up, and changes in water levels and flow patterns. On top of these, invaders like koi carp and hornwort weed are also a big problem in our waterways.“Like invasive marine species, introduced freshwater species are often very difficult to control once they arrive, so preventing further spread is very important. Whether we are going for a swim, kayaking a lake, or shooting ducks, we all have a part to play in preventing the spread of freshwater species that can contaminate our gear and the next location we visit,” says Dr Imogen Bassett, Auckland Council Head of Natural Environment Specialist Services.What do we currently do?Auckland Council collaborates with other agencies nationally to promote awareness of ‘Check, Clean, Dry’ - the three key actions everyone can take when out and about in freshwater. We have rules preventing the further spread of existing introduced freshwater species.We also control existing introduced species at two of the region’s highest ecological value lakes, Tomarata and Rototoa, to protect and restore native species such as kākahi freshwater mussels.A new threatA new freshwater invader is now knocking on our door. Freshwater gold clam was discovered in the Waikato River in 2023. These clams can spread quickly, with each clam able to have up to 70,000 juveniles each year.Their microscopic young are tough invaders which can easily attach to and travel on wetsuits, kayaks and other gear unless the gear is completely dried out and treated. Because wake boats cannot be completely dried, they are an especially high-risk item when moving from gold clam infested areas.We know from overseas examples that gold clam is a significant threat to our native ecosystems, and that they can clog up infrastructure such as hydrodams, irrigation systems and outboard motors.If they invade Lake Tomarata, they may make swimming less appealing, with periodic mass die-offs of clams affecting water quality. Because they arrived so recently, we do not currently have any rules relating to freshwater gold clam.What we want to know from youWe are seeking your input on whether we should ban motorised boats from Tomarata, to manage this high-risk pathway to a priority lake that we are already managing for other pressures. As well as protecting the lake from freshwater gold clam, there would be wider benefits to Tomarata from removing motorised boats.“Vessels moving at speed on the lake are causing the shoreline to break up, churning up lakebed sediments, disturbing bird nesting and contaminating the lake water with fuel. Motorised craft also pose safety challenges, limiting the use of the lake for passive recreation such as swimming and kayaking,” says Dr Bassett.“However, we know that motorised boating at Lake Tomarata is also a valued recreational experience for the local community and beyond.”We are also seeking your feedback on whether we should also control freshwater pests at more of the region’s 72 natural lakes.Have your sayGet involved and let us know how we can work together and protect Auckland’s environment – the ‘Let’s Protect Our Environment’ consultation is open from now to 8 December 2024.To have your say, you can:Complete our online feedback formEmail [email protected] with your completed feedback formTake your completed form to a library with council servicesPost your completed form to:Let’s protect our environmentAuckland CouncilFree post 190198Private Bag 92300Victoria Street WestAuckland 1142