Centennial Park Upgrade: A Fresh New Chapter for a Much-Loved Local ReserveCentennial Park is currently undergoing a significant upgrade, and locals are already beginning to see the benefits of the work taking shape. The project, which focuses on improving access, restoring natural features, and enhancing recreational spaces, is progressing steadily as the park is prepared for its next chapter.The renewal work has centred on modernising key infrastructure such as pathways, lighting, and drainage. These improvements are designed to make the park easier and safer to use year-round, particularly during winter when the grounds can become challenging underfoot. The upgraded pathways also strengthen accessibility for walkers, families with prams, and those with mobility needs.Landscape enhancements are another important part of the upgrade. New planting, weed control, and restoration in high-use areas are helping to revitalise the park’s natural environment while preserving its much-loved character. These changes will support the health of the bush areas and improve the overall experience for visitors exploring the network of tracks.Recreational areas are also receiving attention, with renewal work under way around entrances, carparks, and gathering points. Several ageing surfaces and structures have been replaced or refreshed to bring them up to modern standards of safety and usability. The aim is to create welcoming, durable spaces that serve local families, sports clubs, and the many community groups who use the park.Community feedback has continued to guide the project team, with park users, neighbours, and volunteer organisations offering valuable insight into how upgraded spaces can best function. This collaborative approach ensures the improvements reflect what locals want and need from their community reserve.The next stage of the project will focus on completing landscaping and finalising key recreational areas ahead of the coming season. Once finished, the upgrade will deliver a more resilient, accessible, and enjoyable Centennial Park for everyone who walks, plays, explores, and connects there.Centennial Park has long been a treasured part of the Matakana Coast, and with these improvements, it is well set for many more years of community enjoyment.

NEW ARTWORKSFamily-owned Brick Bay is pleased to unveil multiple new artworks along its renowned sculpture trail where around 70 sculptures by New Zealand artists are showcased in a beautiful natural setting, just in time for summer.This is complemented by a new summer menu featuring ingredients grown on the property and exclusive new release boutique wines from its established vineyard.Brick Bay’s General Manager, Fiona Stewart says Brick Bay is a destination in itself for those in the know, with its rare combination of accessible art, food, wine, and natural beauty.“We’re excited to create even more reasons for people to discover or come back to visit again by continuously refreshing our art and offering a range of the other experiences, including the opportunity to escape and connect with our iconic natural landscape and enjoy the food and wine we produce from it,” says Fiona.The three new artworks joining Brick Bay’s sculpture trail for the start of summer are the following, with other new installations planned in the New Year:Consequence Sequence by Auckland-based artist, Seung Yul OhPaper Pals by Hawkes Bay-based artist, Ben PearceStumping Ground, by Wellington-based artist, Turumeke Harrington (Kāi Tahu, Rangitāne).Art Manager, Rachael Lovelace says Brick Bay is proud to foster the careers of New Zealand sculptors by continuously adding new works to our sculpture trail as other artworks exhibited on our sculpture trail are sold.“While our sculpture trail is an art gallery, with all of the art available for sale, it offers something for everyone – even those who are not art afficionados – as an immersive experience and a place to pause, marvel, and reflect on the beauty and symbiosis of nature and art,” says Rachael.FOODThis is combined with the lure of unique dining experiences among the vines or in Brick Bay’s Glass House Restaurant, which is cantilevered over a shimmering lake and features a seasonal menu based on what is available in the gardens on the property.Brick Bay’s new summer menu is curated by chef Cameron Cook who joined Brick Bay in 2014 after working for Peter Gordon in the UK earlier in his career and being influenced by other notable chefs during his time at Soul Bar & Bistro in Auckland, including Greg Malouf. The new summer menu includes a dish inspired by Malouf who was regarded as the godfather of modern Middle Eastern cuisine and who passed away last year, which features sustainably caught snapper from local supplier Leigh Fish and makes the most of the abundant ingredients sustainably grown at Brick Bay.“In another new development, we are now open for dinner on Friday and Saturday nights over summer, and it’s a truly special dining experience watching the sun go down over the beautiful landscape that is home to Brick Bay,” says Fiona.WINEThe whole experience is complemented by the opportunity to enjoy Brick Bay’s highly rated wine from its own vineyard, which is available only at the cellar door. The latest release is Brick Bay Rose 2025, and there is also a special limited release of its highly rated Chardonnay 2022, made from grapes hand-nurtured onsite. With a rating from Cameron Douglas MS of 94 (excellent), and only 32 cases produced, the Brick Bay Chardonnay 2022 is a very exclusive wine that captures the spirit of Brick Bay.DJ SUMMER SESSIONSEvery Saturday from 6 December to 31 January, Brick Bay comes alive with laid-back DJ sessions under the vines. From 2:30pm–5:30pm, our rotating lineup of DJs brings the perfect summer soundtrack to The Row—a breezy mix of sunshine, wine, and good vibrations in our lakeside lounge and grapevine tunnel.DJ Schedule:6 Dec – Dan Paine13 Dec – Wendy Douglas20 Dec – Hudge27 Dec – Wendy D & Dan Paine3 Jan – Wendy D10 Jan – Dan Paine17 Jan – Hudge24 Jan – Mark Laurence31 Jan – Zane TeeDJ Bios:Dan PaineA seasoned DJ with over 25 years of experience across radio, bars and festivals, Dan is known for his eclectic sets that flow effortlessly through jazz, balearic, soul, and cosmic beats. His style is all about feel and flow—perfectly tuned to the slow rhythms of a summer afternoon.Wendy DouglasWendy is an eclectic selector with a deep love for music that moves both body and mind. Her sets blend soulful melodies, global rhythms, downtempo grooves, and jazz textures, all curated with a gentle sense of flow. For Brick Bay, she leans into her more expansive, sun-drenched side—creating evocative, feel-good soundscapes that invite you to relax, connect, and let the day unfold.Dave Hudgins (Hudge)A key figure in Auckland’s music scene, Hudge brings a deep, genre-bending energy to every set. With hip hop at his roots and a wide-ranging love for house, nu-jazz, disco, and more, his selections are always vibrant, surprising, and made to move you—perfect for soaking up summer with a twist.Mark Laurence (The Mayor of Yesteryear)Mark has a knack for setting a groove that feels right from the first track. Folding flavours of the past into the present, his sets lean into retro soul, funk, and house with a fresh, feel-good touch. Expect a mellow lakeside atmosphere that pairs perfectly with a chilled rosé and a sun-dappled afternoon at Brick Bay.Zane Torkington (Zane:Tee)A long-time fixture in Aotearoa’s funk, hip hop, and Latin scenes, Zane:Tee is known for warm, groove-rich sets that lift the mood and fill the space with feel-good energy. A regular on Base FM and at venues across Tāmaki Makaurau and Northland, his Brick Bay sessions promise smooth blends, deep cuts, and golden-hour gems designed for slow sips and sunny outlooks.“With new art installations, a new menu, evening dining available for a limited time, exclusive new wine releases and Summer sounds, Brick Bay is the place to be this summer,” says Fiona.

Warkworth / Rodney RegionFriday 5th December - Cloudy periods, with isolated showers clearing in the morning. SouthwesterliesSaturday 6th - Fine. Southwesterlies, easing at night.Sunday 7th - Fine. Northerlies developing.Mangawhai / Northland RegionFriday 5th December - Fine apart from some morning and evening cloud. Southwesterlies, easing at night.Saturday 6th - Fine. Light winds.Sunday 7th - Fine. Northerlies developing in the morning.

Tom & Luke Low Carb Snackaballs recalled as they may contain foreign matter (hard plastic).Product informationThe Tom & Luke Low Carb Snackaballs product varieties with the following date markings are affected by this recall:Cookies & Cream (112g): BB: 11 SEP 2026Hazelnut (112g): BB: 03 SEP 2026 and 11 SEP 2026 Raspberry (112g): BB: 15 SEP 2026, 11 SEP 2026, and 16 OCT 2026.The products are packed in a plastic pouch.This recall does not affect any other Tom & Luke brand products.Where the product was soldThe products are sold at selected retail outlets and supermarkets throughout New Zealand.The products have been exported to Australia.What to do if you bought the productCustomers are asked to check the batch and date mark on the products. Affected products should not be consumed. If you have consumed any of these products and have any concerns about your health, seek medical advice. Customers should return the products to their retailer for a full refund.What to do if you sold the productIf you are a retailer of these products, download a copy of the point-of-sale notice. You need to display it in your store for one month.Point of sale notice – Tom & Luke Low Carb Snackaballs [PDF, 187 KB]Who to contactIf you have questions, contact Smartfoods Limited:Phone: 0800 328 935Email: [email protected]

A long-standing Warkworth workshop is calling on the community to help grow a project that is already reducing waste, supporting local families, and keeping tonnes of metal out of landfill.Chainsaw & Mower Services, based on Gumdigger Lane, has been repairing and servicing outdoor machinery across Rodney for more than ten years. Over the past year, the family-run business has expanded its work into a community-led machinery recovery and recycling programme — and the demand has surged far faster than expected.Each week the team collects old, unwanted, or abandoned machinery from homes, lifestyle blocks and farms. Lawn mowers, chainsaws, pumps, engines and even diggers are either refurbished and given a second life, or carefully broken down so usable parts can be salvaged and scrap metal recycled responsibly. Anything that can’t be saved is disposed of safely, preventing illegal dumping or equipment being left to rust in paddocks.The initiative has already helped local families doing it tough, with refurbished machinery donated to community members and charities such as Harbour Hospice.The business also provides free pickup, which has been a lifeline for people who can’t transport heavy equipment themselves.To keep the programme running — and expand it further across Rodney — Chainsaw & Mower Services has launched a Givealittle fundraising campaign . Donations will help cover fuel and transport, recycling fees, tools and parts, safety gear, and upgrades to their recycling yard to make the operation safer and more efficient.The team says the goal is simple: rescue more machinery, reduce waste, and support more people.“With your help, we can recover more equipment, keep more metal out of landfills, and continue supporting local families and charities,” the business says. “Your generosity truly makes a difference — one machine at a time.”For more information about what they do and for contact details head to their FB page https://www.facebook.com/mowercare

Today 3rd DecAUCKLAND Periods of rain with heavy falls developing this morning. Thunderstorms, downpours and large hail possible from around midday until evening. Northerlies, strong in exposed places, turning southwesterly this afternoon, gale gusting 90 km/h in exposed places from late evening.Heavy Rain WatchPeriod: 11hrs from 10am - 9pm Wed, 3 DecArea: Auckland, Great Barrier Island and Coromandel PeninsulaForecast: Periods of heavy rain with thunderstorms and localised downpours possible. Amounts may approach warning criteria, and possibly exceed them in downpours. Moderate chance of upgrading to a Warning.Severe Thunderstorm WatchPeriod: 7hrs 30min from 9:30am - 5pm Wed, 3 DecArea: Northland, Auckland, Great Barrier IslandForecast: Unstable showery conditions spread southwards onto the upper North Island today, with a moderate risk of thunderstorms over Northland and Auckland. Some of these thunderstorms may become SEVERE across eastern parts of Northland this morning and early afternoon, then Auckland around midday and through the afternoon, with localised downpours of 25 to 40 mm/h, large hail in excess of 20 mm diameter, strong wind gusts of 90 km/h, and a slight chance of a damaging tornado. Expect thunderstorm activity to ease by evening.Strong Wind WatchPeriod: 10hrs from 9pm Wed, 3 Dec - 7am Thu, 4 DecArea: Northland and Auckland, including Great Barrier IslandForecast: Southwest winds may approach severe gale in exposed places. Moderate chance of upgrading to a Warning.NORTHLANDRain with heavy falls developing this morning. Thunderstorms, downpours and large hail possible until mid afternoon. Northwesterlies, turning gale southwesterly this evening, gusting 90 km/h.Heavy Rain WatchPeriod: 8hrs from 9am - 5pm Wed, 3 DecArea: NorthlandForecast: Periods of heavy rain with thunderstorms and localised downpours possible. Amounts may approach warning criteria, and possibly exceed them in downpours. Moderate chance of upgrading to a Warning.Severe Thunderstorm WatchPeriod: 7hrs 30min from 9:30am - 5pm Wed, 3 DecArea: Northland, Auckland, Great Barrier IslandForecast: Unstable showery conditions spread southwards onto the upper North Island today, with a moderate risk of thunderstorms over Northland and Auckland. Some of these thunderstorms may become SEVERE across eastern parts of Northland this morning and early afternoon, then Auckland around midday and through the afternoon, with localised downpours of 25 to 40 mm/h, large hail in excess of 20 mm diameter, strong wind gusts of 90 km/h, and a slight chance of a damaging tornado. Expect thunderstorm activity to ease by evening.Strong Wind WatchPeriod: 10hrs from 9pm Wed, 3 Dec - 7am Thu, 4 DecArea: Northland and Auckland, including Great Barrier IslandForecast: Southwest winds may approach severe gale in exposed places. Moderate chance of upgrading to a Warning.

Two children were airlifted to Starship Hospital in critical condition after a multi-injury crash that shut down a section of State Highway 1 north of Wellsford on Monday evening.Emergency services were called to the scene shortly after 4.30pm, where several people were found injured following the collision. Paramedics dispatched multiple ambulances, rapid-response units and a rescue helicopter as they worked to stabilise the patients.Alongside the two critically injured children, one person was transported to Auckland City Hospital in a serious condition. Another patient with moderate injuries was taken to North Shore Hospital.The crash forced the closure of SH1 between the SH16 junction and Davies Road for several hours while emergency crews worked and investigators examined the scene. Northbound motorists were diverted to SH16, while southbound drivers faced significant delays.Police said the New Zealand Police Serious Crash Unit is carrying out a full investigation into the cause of the incident.

Police are asking for the public's help finding Metallica, who has been reported missing from the Manurewa area.The 13-year-old was last seen at about 8.45am on 14 November.Metallica is described as about 160cms tall with long black hair.She is known to frequent the Wellsford area.If you have seen Metallica or have information that might help us find her, please call 111 and quote reference number 251114/0125.

Biosecurity authorities are warning that the Asian yellow-legged hornet situation in Auckland is becoming more serious, with new queens and small nests continuing to appear across Glenfield as spring ends.The species was first detected over winter, when two sluggish male hornets were found.The initial find suggested a limited incursion, but recent discoveries paint a different picture. Response teams from the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) have located around two dozen spring queens and several developing nests in recent weeks, indicating the population is larger and more active than anticipated.Experts say the numbers suggest the current incursion may have originated from a single nest capable of producing hundreds of queens in one season. If so, the individuals and nests found so far may represent only a small portion of the true spread.The hornet poses a significant threat to honey bees, which make up the majority of its natural prey.Overseas, established populations have caused severe hive losses, with some regions in Europe reporting declines of between 30 and 80 percent.The species also presents risks to people, as approaching or disturbing nests can result in painful stings, rapid swelling and, in rare cases, severe allergic reactions.The economic cost of managing yellow-legged hornet populations overseas has reached into the tens of millions of dollars, prompting concern that New Zealand must scale up its efforts while eradication is still achievable.MPI has increased staff numbers and is carrying out intensive searches on the ground. Their work is supported by trapping within a five-kilometre radius of detection sites, although some international evidence suggests the hornets can disperse far beyond this range. European data shows early populations spreading tens of kilometres per year, raising the possibility that the current search area will need to expand substantially.The only confirmed eradication of this species occurred on the island of Majorca, where a multi-year programme combined citizen reporting, extensive nest searches and systematic nest removal. That success, carried out over a sizeable area, suggests eradication in Auckland remains possible if the full extent of the incursion is rapidly identified.New Zealand may also benefit from locally developed toxic bait such as Vespex, widely used for wasp control. Although its effectiveness on the yellow-legged hornet is still being evaluated, the bait has previously reduced wasp numbers dramatically in large forested areas. If foraging hornets begin taking the bait, January and February are expected to be the most effective window for deployment.Later in summer, search teams expect to locate higher and more concealed nests, including those in tall tree canopies, which may require specialised equipment and long-reach tools to treat safely.Biosecurity New Zealand is continuing to urge Aucklanders to report any suspected hornets or nests. Officials say the priority is to intensify searching, establish the true boundaries of the infestation and destroy remaining nests before they can produce new queens and males.We have previously reported on how we can make our own hornet traps - for details head here.

Warkworth / Rodney RegionMonday 1st December - Showers clearing to fine this morning. Westerlies, easing at night.Tuesday 2nd December -Fine, then rain with heavy falls developing in the evening. Southwesterlies developing for a time in the afternoon.Wednesday 3rd December - A few showers, becoming widespread and heavier south of Orewa in the morning. Easterlies, turning to strong northwesterlies.Thursday 4th December - Showers becoming isolated with longer fine breaks. Gale southwesterlies.Friday 5th December - Partly cloudy. Southwesterlies.Saturday 6th Dec - Fine. Southwesterlies.Sunday 7th Dec - Fine with light winds.Mangawhai / Northland RegionMonday 1st December - Fine apart from the chance of a shower this afternoon. Westerlies, easing this evening.Tuesday 2nd December - Fine, then rain with heavy falls developing in the evening. Light winds.Wednesday 3rd December - Rain easing to a few showers in the morning. Easterlies, turning to strong northwesterlies in the morning.Thursday 4th December - A few showers. Strong southwesterlies.Friday 5th December -Partly cloudy. Southwesterlies.Saturday 6th Dec - Fine with southwesterlies.Sunday 7th Dec - Fine with light winds.

A $50 million redevelopment plan of North Auckland's popular, now demolished Waiwera Hot Pools has been unveiled.Concept designs for the currently empty site include 28 pools and wellness experiences along with saunas, reflexology walks and gardens.Resource consent for the project, led by Waiwera Thermal Springs Property LP, would be lodged with Auckland Council on Monday, the group said.The group had signed an agreement to acquire the site from landowners Urban Partners.The Waiwera site seen from above as it currently is. Photo: SUPPLIEDDirector of Waiwera Thermal Springs, Brandon Batagol, said he wanted the attraction to be a "wold-class bathing and wellness destination".Waiwera had been open in some form since the 1800's, but in 2018 the hot pools closed and were later demolished in 2023, leaving the site as a vacant piece of land."Our vision is to create a destination that reconnects people to Waiwera's geothermal heritage, culture and lush native landscape," Batagol said.Waiwera Thermal Springs concept sketch. Photo: SUPPLIED"This will be a place of genuine replenishment where wellness grows from nature."The development team behind the project had experience in thermal wellness destinations, Batagol said, and had operated the award-winning Peninsula Hot Springs in Melbourne and been involved in the revival of Maruia Hot Springs in the South Island."Together, with local experts and local partners, we have taken the upmost care to deliver a plan for Waiwera Thermal Springs that will bring considerable economic and social benefits to the region whilst honouring the natural environment."He said the springs would encourage guests to "slow down" and immerse themselves in nature.Pools set amongst native forest as part of the concept renders. Photo: One to One Hundred Ltd / SUPPLIEDWaiwera was a place of deep ancestral and cultural significance for Ngāti Manuhiri, Batagol said who would be involved as development partners."We recognise this land and water as part of a living whakapapa, shaped by generations and sustained through shared principles."Sharing the plans openly with the public for the first time was "exciting", Batagol said."We look forward to continuing to work closely with Auckland Council through the Resource Consent process."In time, when we are ready to welcome visitors, we want them to come for the calm and stay for the connection in Waiwera's mineral rich hot waters."Waiwera Thermal Pools prior to its demolition. (File photo) Photo: RNZ / Tom TaylorAuckland Mayor Wayne Brown said the $50 million plan had his "full backing"."Waiwera Thermal Springs is expected to attract over 310,000 visitors to the region and generate around $300 million over its first five years, drawing tourism in both winter and summer."It is optimally placed along the tourist route, making the most of what we already have there. I look forward to its opening."This story was originally published by RNZ

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)Southbound lanes between Silverdale off-ramp and Oteha Valley Road on-ramp, 3 DecemberSilverdale southbound on-ramp, 3 DecemberSilverdale southbound on-ramp, 30 November - 2 December (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)Tristram Avenue northbound off-ramp, 2-3 DecemberShelly Beach Road southbound off-ramp, 30 November - 4 DecemberCENTRAL MOTORWAY JUNCTION (CMJ)SH1 northbound to SH16 westbound link, 4 DecemberSH16 (Port) westbound to SH16 westbound link, 4 DecemberEastbound lanes between Gladstone Road and Quay Street/Tamaki Drive, 30 NovemberWestbound lanes between Quay Street/Tamaki Drive and Gladstone Road, 30 NovemberEastbound lanes between Gladstone Road and Quay Street/Tamaki Drive, 1 & 3 December (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)Westbound lanes between Quay Street/Tamaki Drive and Gladstone Road, 1 & 3 December (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)SOUTHERN MOTORWAY (SH1)Princes Street northbound on-ramp, 1-4 DecemberPrinces Street northbound off-ramp, 1-4 DecemberEast Tamaki Road northbound off-ramp, 30 November - 3 December (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)Papakura (Diamond) northbound on-ramp, 30 November - 1 DecemberSouthbound lanes between Papakura off-ramp and Drury/SH22 on-ramp, 30 NovemberPapakura (Loop) southbound on-ramp, 30 NovemberPapakura (Diamond) southbound on-ramp, 30 NovemberNorthbound lanes between Drury/SH22 off-ramp and Papakura on-ramp, 1-4 DecemberDrury/SH22 northbound on-ramp, 1-4 DecemberNorthbound lanes between Bombay off-ramp and Drury/SH22 on-ramp, 30 NovemberRamarama northbound on-ramp, 30 NovemberBombay northbound on-ramp, 30 NovemberBombay southbound off-ramp, 3 December (approx. 9:30pm to 5:00am)Beaver Road northbound off-ramp, 1 DecemberBeaver Road northbound on-ramp, 1 DecemberNikau Road northbound on-ramp, 1 DecemberRidge Road northbound off-ramp, 2 December (approx. 8:00pm to 5:00am)Razorback Road northbound on-ramp, 2 December (approx. 8:00pm to 5:00am)SH1 northbound to SH2 eastbound link, 2 DecemberPokeno northbound on-ramp, 2 December (approx. 8:00pm to 5:00am)Pokeno northbound off-ramp, 3 DecemberPioneer Road northbound on-ramp, 3 DecemberMercer southbound off-ramp, 30 NovemberMercer southbound on-ramp, 30 NovemberMercer northbound off-ramp, 4 DecemberMercer northbound on-ramp, 4 DecemberNORTHWESTERN MOTORWAY (SH16)Southbound lanes between Foster Road and Trigg Road, 2 December (approx. 8:00pm to 5:00am)Northbound lanes between Trigg Road and Foster Road, 2 December (approx. 8:00pm to 5:00am)Southbound lanes between Foster Road and Station Road, 30 NovemberNorthbound lanes between Station Road and Foster Road, 30 NovemberSouthbound lanes between Foster Road and Station Road, 1 & 3 December (approx. 8:00pm to 5:00am)Northbound lanes between Station Road and Foster Road, 1 & 3 December (approx. 8:00pm to 5:00am)St Lukes Road eastbound off-ramp, 29 November (approx. 6:00pm to 1:00am)St Lukes Road eastbound on-ramp, 29 November (approx. 10:00pm to 1:00am)SOUTHWESTERN MOTORWAY (SH20)Southbound lanes between Massey Road off-ramp and Puhinui Road on-ramp, 30 November & 2-4 December (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)Massey Road southbound on-ramp, 30 November & 2-4 DecemberNorthbound lanes between Cavendish Drive off-ramp and Massey Road on-ramp, 2-3 December (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)Puhinui Road northbound on-ramp, 2-4 DecemberCavendish Drive northbound on-ramp, 2-3 December

A coroner is again warning fishers to wear a lifejacket and not fish alone, after a man died when he was swept away at Omaha Beach, North Auckland.Younchang Ko, 67, was fishing at his favourite spot, the estuary on Omaha Beach, on March 9, 2024 when he disappeared into the water.He was found floating in the water some time later but couldn't be revived.A report by Auckland Coroner Erin Woolley released on Saturday, detailed the circumstances of Ko's death, but couldn't conclusively determine the cause."In accordance with the wishes of Younchang's family, a lesser, rather than a full, post-mortem examination of Younchang's body was carried out," Woolley explained."The forensic pathologist who carried out the post-mortem explained that drowning is a medical diagnosis of exclusion that can only be made after a full post-mortem examination has been performed."Ko was found to have a heart disease, which made it unclear whether his cause of death was drowning or a heart complication.On the day of Ko's death, he was fishing alone."Other people at the beach saw him fishing in knee-deep water near the mouth of the estuary at the northern end of the beach. For the next three and a half hours, Younchang stood in the water fishing, and did not appear to reposition himself when the tide began to rise," the Coroner wrote.As the tide continued to rise and the current got stronger, Ko eventually called for help."A person nearby responded asking Younchang if he was okay, but he did not reply. He then went under the water and did not make any attempt to swim. He was still holding his fishing rod."One witness called emergency services while another entered the water to try and pull Ko out, but the current was too strong.Eventually they lost sight of the fisherman, and lifeguards from the Omaha Surf Lifesaving Club later found him floating face-down in the water."One of the attending lifeguards noted that Younchang was wearing a full wetsuit with water shoes and a hat," the Coroner detailed."When he was retrieved from the water, he still had a container attached to his arm, containing rope and possibly a bag of bait. He was not wearing a life jacket."Coroner Woolley said the case highlighted the importance of wearing a lifejacket and fishing in a group of at least two people."The longer a fisher can stay afloat, the more chance there is for emergency services or lifeguards to reach that person and successfully save their life. This is the single most effective measure for preventing drowning fatalities."This story was originally published by RNZ

Peter de GraafClass action has been filed against national grid operator Transpower and its maintenance contractor Omexom over the toppling of a power pylon in mid-2024 that cut power to the entire Northland region.The legal action is being taken on behalf of the roughly 20,000 businesses affected by the outage and, if successful, could end up costing the two companies millions of dollars.Hannah Brown, a partner in Sydney-based law firm Piper Alderman, said no specific sum was mentioned in the legal papers filed late on Wednesday - but an estimate last June by economic consultants Infometrics put the cost to businesses at $60 million while the Northland Chamber of Commerce gave a figure of $80m.A report last year by Transpower found the pylon at Glorit, northwest of Auckland, fell over on 20 June last year when contractors removed the nuts from at least two of its legs at once.Transpower staff working at dawn to install a temporary tower after a pylon collapse cut power to most of Northland in June 2024. Photo: TranspowerBrown said a subsequent review by the Electricity Authority concluded the collapse was caused by "entirely avoidable" factors including inadequate procedures and training."This wasn't just another power outage or an accidental or unforeseeable event like a weather event or a storm. It was something that was completely avoidable, and for that reason, we think those responsible should be held to account, and if they aren't, that just breeds a sense of complacency in the future."The power cut affected about 180,000 people.Most homes had power restored within seven hours but some large businesses, such as timber mills and dairy plants, lost more than three days' worth of production while restaurants had to throw away spoiled food.After pressure from Northland MP Grant McCallum and the local Chamber of Commerce, Transpower and Omexom each contributed $500,000 to a "resilience fund" for projects designed to lift the region's economy.However, Brown said that amount was "completely disproportionate and insufficient" given the actual losses suffered by Northland businesses.Along with Piper Alderman, the class action was being run by New Zealand law firm LeeSalmonLong and bankrolled by litigation funder Omni Bridgeway.Brown said it was intended to be an "opt-out" lawsuit, which meant all affected businesses would be included unless they chose not to take part.There was no cost to businesses taking part, but if the "no win, no pay" class action was successful, the funder would take a commission.Without class action, Brown said it was hard for individual businesses to take on the might and resources of a state-owned enterprise like Transpower or a large multinational such as Omexom.Omexom's France-based parent company, VINCI Group, declared net income of just under $10 billion last year."This is about giving businesses access to justice and an opportunity to group together to fight for compensation," she said.Class actions have been rare in New Zealand, and reputedly hard to win, in the past.However, Brown said that was changing thanks to recent reforms making class actions more accessible.Successful cases, such as the ASB's settlement in a banking class action over disclosure breaches, showed the legal landscape was evolving.She said the law firms were confident they had a strong case, much of which was built on Transpower and Electricity Authority reports."We wouldn't be pursuing this if we didn't believe it had strong prospects," she said.Northland businesses affected by the outage would be invited to register and provide information about their losses.Some were already on board but now that the class action had been filed, it would be much easier to engage openly with affected businesses across Northland.If the class action was successful, Brown said compensation would be distributed among those businesses in proportion to their losses.A Transpower spokesman confirmed legal papers had been served on the company late on Wednesday, but would not comment given that the matter was before the courts.Omexom could not be contacted.This story was originally published by RNZ

Just in time for the busy summer season, Hato Hone St John has introduced paid ambulance staff in Mangawhai, marking a significant enhancement to its emergency response capability in the Kaipara District.From 24 November, two paramedics and two emergency medical assistants (EMAs) will begin duty from the town’s ambulance station, crewing an ambulance between 8am and 8pm, seven days a week. The existing team of dedicated volunteers will continue to staff the first response unit (FRU) overnight, from 8pm to 8am, as well as providing an additional resource during the day when available.A new ambulance, donated by the estate of a local resident, who wishes to remain anonymous, has also begun service in the town.A special ceremony was held at Mangawhai station on Monday morning (24 November) to celebrate and welcome the new staff.The development is driven by substantial population growth in Mangawhai and rising demand for ambulance services. Adding paid staff along with a transporting ambulance is expected to improve both response times and patient outcomes in the township and neighbouring communities.Hato Hone St John Area Operations Manager - Rodney, Travis Slattery, says the organisation has been working closely with key stakeholders for some time to secure funding for the new positions.“Currently, our ambulance service in Mangawhai relies on a highly valued group of volunteers. These new paid roles will help ensure coverage during peak times - especially when many of our volunteers are at work or have limited availability.”Data from similar resourcing increases by Hato Hone St John demonstrate clear benefits for the community, including faster response times, improved cardiac arrest survival rates, and overall better patient outcomes.“By staggering shift times across Mangawhai and neighbouring stations, we also expect to strengthen resilience across North Rodney, while reducing workload and overtime for a broader group of staff.“Our volunteers will continue to play a vital role and will have the opportunity to work alongside paramedics who will help enhance their learning and development. Introducing full-time paid staff will not only reduce volunteer workload but also support their personal growth and preserve the strong sense of community service that defines our volunteers,” Mr Slattery says.Mangawhai currently boasts 30 passionate and dedicated volunteers.Hato Hone St John deeply appreciates the longstanding support of Mangawhai residents, which has been pivotal to the latest development.“The Mangawhai community has shown unwavering support over the years, playing a vital role in fundraising for essential equipment, vehicles, and the Mangawhai ambulance station, as well as through strong patronage of our local retail store,” Mr Slattery says.

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Consumers are being warned to assume imported products including kids play things are not being tested and its best to avoid anything that could be contaminated or faulty.An asbestos scare has prompted a recall of several brands of children coloured play sand.It expanded yesterday with two more products added; Rainbow Sand Art Toy, approximately 800 units have been sold at various discount stores nationwide, and sand craft.Some of the coloured sands are laced with tremolite asbestos.That is despite it being illegal to import any product containing asbestos.University of Auckland law professor Alex Sims said shoppers should not assume the law is being followed."We've just seen it with the with the coloured sand, but I think to be honest, it's not sort of a product that people naturally thought would have asbestos in it."Sims told Checkpoint it is up to retailers and importers to do checks on products, but that doesn't mean it is always being done."There's a whole lot of laws that cover kids toys.... and if you're importing product it can't have asbestos in it.""There's lots and lots of laws, but it is up to the people selling it and importing it to make sure that the law is being followed."She said products having safety issues is not uncommon and has happened in the past, but often consumers don't hear about it."What often happens is something happens... where some poor child almost dies and then they look into it, and then the prosecutions happens, but this after the fact.""One thing that could happen is the Commerce Commission and other people could do spot checks to see that the products are actually meeting specifications, but there's so many that it might be impossible to do."If parents wanted to be reimbursed the cost of asbestos testing or any clean up, Sims said the responsibility lies on the retailer, which is in many cases Kmart."Under the Consumer Guarantees Act if a good is not safe, and if it's contaminated with asbestos it's not safe, then yes [you are entitled to] a refund of the money, but also the cost of the testing the cost of cleaning,""If the colour sand is all through a carpet and it can't be cleaned properly then the cost of replacing that carpet as well."Despite this, Sims said she would be surprised if this would occur."The only real way at the moment is for someone to go to the disputes tribunal."Schools are also covered under the consumer guarantees act, said Sims.Despite the laws in place, she said it was ultimately down to buyers to be aware of what they are purchasing."Unfortunately the laws don't work...yes, we've got laws, but then as we've seen here, they're not protecting anybody, so it is buyer beware."With Christmas around the corner, Sims said for now it might be safest to stick to simpler and more traditional toys, such as wooden items without paint on them.MBIE product safety spokesman Ian Caplin said the Ministry is working retailers of children's sand products to understand supply chains and determine the origin of the sand.The Ministry said it is the retailer's responsibility to sell a safe product, and the importation of a product containing asbestos is not allowed without a permit.Kmart did not respond to a request for an interview about its sand products.This story was originally published by RNZ

We are starting work on the road renewal on Mahurangi East Road, this Wednesday 26 November. The northbound lane will be closed between Amanda Lane and Kauri Crescent. A detour will be in place, see the picture below for details. The southbound lane will remain open with speed restrictions.Businesses will remain open with access available.We will be working between 7am to 7pm Monday to Friday, and Saturdays as required. We expect to work overnight (8pm to 5am) on Sunday 14 December, weather dependent.This stage of works is expected to take about 3 weeks (weather dependent) and then we will pause works for the busy holiday period and return once traffic volumes have reduced in 2026, for a further 10 weeks.We will be rebuilding the pavement of the road, which involves excavation, concrete works and asphalting. We will work in stages to allow traffic access to shops and side streets.

The family of Te Anihana Pomana has criticised police for announcing they found a body before formal identification.Te Anihana Pomana, also known as Ani Anderson, went missing August 21, after leaving Sky City hotel in the early hours of the morning.On Monday police announced a body they believed to be Pomana was found on Saturday in dense bush in the Pukekohe area.In a post on social media, whānau criticised the release going out."The media releases were done without official confirmation with formal identification, whānau hadn't got the chance to inform many close to Te Anihana. Apologies to anyone that has had to read and find this information out in this manner," the post said.What did the release say?In a media release on Monday, police said they were making enquiries after a body was found in the search for Te Anihana Pomana on Saturday."At around 7.43pm police were notified a body was located in dense bush in the Pukekohe area," the release said."Formal identification is yet to take place; however it is believed to be the body of Te Anihana."Police said an investigation into the circumstances of the death were underway and a post mortem was expected to be carried out in due course."Her family have been notified of this development and are being provided support."Police have been approached for further comment.