Farmers are spending millions each year on pest control but many feel like they're not gaining any traction.Federated Farmers latest pest survey of 700 farmers found farmers are spending on average $5.45 a hectare controlling pests like deer, goats, possums, cats and geeseBy using Statistics NZ data on the total area farmed, the group estimates the total spend on pest control is $74 million.On top of that its estimated damage from pests costs just over $10 a hectare in lost production for a grand national total of $139 million per year.Federated Farmers pest management spokesperson Richard McIntyre said it's a huge cost for rural communities to be carrying at a time when many farming families are already struggling to turn a profit."This is a very serious problem that's costing Kiwi farmers almost a quarter of a billion dollars every year."However more than 30 percent of those surveyed said their shooting, trapping and poisoning efforts are making no inroads into reducing feral pest numbers.McIntyre said goat, pig and deer populations are booming in most parts of the country, but things are particularly bad on farms bordering Department of Conservation land."DOC are widely regarded by farmers as the neighbour you really don't want to have because they don't fulfill their obligations on controlling wild animals and weeds."Farmers can spend a fortune controlling pests on their farm but if the neighbour isn't doing anything, the pests jump the fence and you're back to square one," he said.He said DoC needs to refocus its efforts on pest control."We had a meeting with them recently and said look if a group of farmers near DoC land are committed to doing a push on pest control can DoC redirect funding to do pest control on it's land."McIntyre said the request was denied."We need to get on top of this problem now. If we allow these animals to keep breeding, their populations, and the cost to control them, will only continue to grow."We appreciate the Government is under huge financial pressures, but this isn't something New Zealand can afford to scrimp and save on."Department of Conservation Director National Programmes Ben Reddiex said the organisation is concerned about rising pest numbers but because it's responsible for managing 8.7 million hectares it cannot manage introduced animals species everywhere."We are focused on prioritising the work we do to make sure it has the greatest impact, is coordinated with other parties' work, and is delivered as effectively and efficiently as possible."We acknowledge people who farm are frustrated about introduced animals moving onto their land from public conservation land, we need a better collective effort by all to find solutions at place, rather than DOC reprioritizing control at specific block margins."Reddiex said such solutions might include partnerships between farmers and forestry owners and New Zealand Deerstalkers Association branches to allow vetted hunters to access properties or removing barriers to support commercial Wild Animal Recovery Operators to work on private land."DOC and the farming sector need to actively share priorities for introduced animal control, so we can be most effective."He said thanks to Budget 2022 DOC has increased investment into its introduced species management programmes.Wild goat control and deer management has had an increase of approximately $8 million annually, The National Predator Control Programme has had an increase of $7.5 million annually, while Predator Free 2050 has had an increase of $20 million annually.This story was originally posted by RNZ News

NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi advises of the following closures for motorway improvements. Work delayed by bad weather will be completed at the next available date, prior to Friday, 6 September 2024.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 Orewa off-ramp and Silverdale on-ramp, 4-5 SeptemberOrewa southbound on-ramp, 4-5 SeptemberMillwater southbound on-ramp, 4-5 SeptemberNorthbound lanes between Silverdale off-ramp and Orewa on-ramp, 4-5 SeptemberSilverdale northbound on-ramp, 4-5 SeptemberCENTRAL MOTORWAY JUNCTION (CMJ)Grafton Road eastbound on-ramp, 1-5 September (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)SH16 eastbound to SH16 (Port) link, 5 September (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)Wellesley Street East (SH16) eastbound off-ramp, 5 September (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)SH1 northbound to SH16 eastbound (Port) link, 4-5 September (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)Wellesley Street East (SH1) eastbound off-ramp, 4-5 September (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)SOUTHERN MOTORWAY (SH1)Market Road northbound off-ramp, 4-5 September (approx. 9:30pm to 5am)Southbound lanes between East Tamaki Road off-ramp and Redoubt Road on-ramp, 4 September (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)East Tamaki Road southbound on-ramp, 4 SeptemberSouthbound lanes between Redoubt off-ramp and Papakura on-ramp, 2-3 September (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)SH1 southbound to SH20 northbound link, 2-3 September (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)Redoubt Road southbound on-ramp, 2-3 SeptemberTakanini southbound on-ramp, 2-3 SeptemberSouthbound lanes between Drury/SH22 off-ramp and Bombay on-ramp, 1 SeptemberDrury/SH22 southbound on-ramp, 1 SeptemberRamarama southbound on-ramp, 1 SeptemberPokeno northbound off-ramp, 5 September (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)Mercer northbound on-ramp, 5 SeptemberSouthbound lanes between Mercer off-ramp and Mercer on-ramp, 5 September (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)Northbound lanes between Mercer off-ramp and Mercer on-ramp, 5 September (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)Te Kauwhata southbound off-ramp, 5 September (approx. 9am to 3pm)Te Kauwhata northbound on-ramp, 3-4 September (approx. 9am to 3pm)Te Kauwhata northbound off-ramp, 3-4 September (approx. 9am to 3pm)Rangiriri northbound off-ramp. 2 September (approx. 9am to 3pm)NORTHWESTERN MOTORWAY (SH16)Southbound lanes between Waimauku Roundabout and Trigg Road, 1-5 September (approx. 8:00pm to 5:00am)Northbound lanes between Trigg Rd and Waimauku Roundabout, 1-5 September (approx. 8:00pm to 5:00am)SOUTHWESTERN MOTORWAY (SH20)Queenstown Road southbound on-ramp, 22 AugustNeilson Street northbound off-ramp, 19 & 21 AugustRimu Road northbound on-ramp, 19 & 21 AugustPlease follow the signposted detours. NZ Transport Agency thanks you for your co-operation during these essential improvements and maintenance.

Severe Thunderstorm WatchPeriod: 7hrs from midnight Sat, 31 Aug - 7am Sun, 1 SepArea: Northland, Auckland, Waikato, Waitomo, Taumarunui, Taupo, Taranaki, Taihape, Wanganui, Manawatu, Tararua, Kapiti-Horowhenua, Wairarapa, WellingtonForecast: An active front is forecast to move over the North Island during Sunday morning, with thunderstorms forecast for many North Island regions About central and western parts of the North Island from southern Northland to northern Wellington, there is a risk of some thunderstorms being severe between midnight Saturday and 7:00 am Sunday. Some of these thunderstorms may generate localised downpours of 25 to 40 mm/h, especially from Waitomo southwards.Rainfall of this intensity can cause surface and/or flash flooding, especially about low-lying areas such as streams, rivers or narrow valleys, and may also lead to slips. Driving conditions will also be hazardous with surface flooding and poor visibility in heavy rain. Some of these thunderstorms may also be squally, and produce damaging wind gusts of 110 km/h or stronger. Wind gusts of this strength can cause some structural damage, including trees and power lines, and may make driving hazardous.

We are deeply shocked and saddened to hear about the devastating ram raids that took place overnight, targeting four of our beloved local businesses: the Four Square, Allied Gas Station, Mangawhai Books and Gifts, and Super Liquor.The attackers caused extensive damage, smashing through walls, doors, and windows in their efforts to loot these establishments.Today, our community stands with these businesses as they begin the difficult task of cleaning up and rebuilding.Now, more than ever, it’s crucial to support our local businesses. Let’s come together as a community and show our resilience by continuing to shop locally and offering a helping hand wherever possible.Stay strong, Mangawhai. We’re in this together.If you are a Mangawhai local and have photos and information to add to this story please email us at [email protected]

A man is facing numerous firearms charges after seven firearms were discovered at a property in Warkworth.Waitematā North Area Prevention Manager, Senior Sergeant Roger Small, says Police responded to a report of someone believed to be in possession of a firearm at an address just after 9am on Sunday.“Armed Police conducted multiple door-knocks at the property, but the occupants were not at home.”Senior Sergeant Small says Police staff sighted two firearms in plain sight inside an old bus next to the house.“They invoked a search of the bus and discovered two more firearms hidden under a makeshift bed.“At this point, the occupier of the house has pulled into the driveway, and a 50-year-old man was immediately arrested for allegedly breaching his bail conditions.“A further search of the property uncovered three further firearms and an amount of cannabis.”A total of seven rifles of various calibres were seized.The 50-year-old man was scheduled to appear in the North Shore District Court today charged with ten counts of illegally possessing firearm/restricted weapon/explosives.He also faces a charge of possessing of a cannabis plant and possessing a pipe or utensil for cannabis.“Police are very happy to have these firearms out of the hands of those who might use them recklessly in our community,” Senior Sergeant Small says.“We are now investigating the origins of these weapons, including the possibility that some of them might have been stolen.”If you have had any firearms stolen, especially rifles, please contact Police by calling us on 105, quoting file number 240825/7107.You can also contact Police online at https://www.police.govt.nz/use-105 clicking "Update Report" and reference the file number above.Information can also be provided anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.

Peter de GraafWhangārei District councillors have voted down a motion to abolish their Māori ward in a two-hour, often emotional debate marked by waiata and a celebratory haka from supporters gathered outside.On Thursday morning, Whangārei District Council became the third of Northland's four local authorities to vote on the future of its Māori wards.A new law that came into effect last month required councils to choose, by 6 September, between abolishing their Māori wards or holding a binding poll alongside next year's local body elections.Up to 200 people, including many Pākehā, gathered outside the council offices on Rust Avenue to show their support for the district's two Māori ward councillors. Only about half could fit inside the chamber, with the rest forced to follow the meeting on screens in the foyer.Another group remained outside waving flags outside the chamber windows.Supporters wave flags outside the council chamber windows. Photo: Peter de Graaf / RNZNgā Hapū o Whangārei representative Delaraine Armstrong speaks during the meeting. Photo: Peter de Graaf / RNZThe initial motion, proposed by councillor Paul Yovich and seconded by Marie Olsen, was to disestablish the Whangārei District Māori Ward and revert to the electoral system used in the 2019 election, before the ward was introduced.That option would have avoided the requirement for a poll or a fresh representation review to adjust ward boundaries or councillor numbers.It was eventually defeated four votes to nine, sparking cheers inside the chamber and a rousing haka outside.A follow-up motion, put by councillor Nicholas Connop, called on the council to retain its Māori ward at the 2025 election and hold a referendum to decide the ward's future in the 2028 and 2031 elections. That was carried by 12 votes to one.At times mayor Vince Cocurullo seemed close to losing his patience with councillors who addressed the public instead of their fellow councillors, and interjections from the public gallery.Whangārei Mayor Vince Cocurullo's patience was tested at times. Photo: Peter de Graaf / RNZDespite the charged topic - at least two councillors appeared to fight back tears - it remained a respectful meeting in which every speaker was given a fair hearing.Frank Newman says Whangārei's long-serving Māori Mayor, Stan Semenoff, didn't need a special ward to get elected. Photo: Peter de Graaf / RNZYovich said the council had a chance to listen to the community when Māori wards were last debated, but chose not to have a poll at that time.He also spoke of his Dalmatian ancestors who were discriminated against when they arrived in New Zealand but had worked hard and gained respect."We know what it's like to be despised, and no way do we want to see our community ripped apart … Let's build a country together because we want to, not because we must."Councillor Marie Olsen supported the motion to abolish the ward because she had been elected on a platform of no co-governance, no Three Waters, and no Māori seats, and her stance had not changed.She believed, however, the motion would be defeated: "Let it go to a referendum, let the public speak, and let's put this to rest once and for all."Phoenix Ruka said his opposition to scrapping the ward was not about protecting his job, or that of fellow Māori ward councillor Deb Harding."This is a generational decision, it's not about me and Deb. It's for our mokopuna."He also hit back at speakers who talked about wanting New Zealanders to be one people.Māori ward councillor Phoenix Ruka says today's vote is a generational decision. Photo: Peter de Graaf / RNZ"If you really want us to be one, you would take time to learn our reo, as we have learnt yours."Connop spoke of the deluge of emails, 340 at last count, he had received urging him to vote one way or the other."As Pākehā, I know what's good for Māori is good for all of us. Let's not get led up the garden path by fearmongering and lies."Councillor Patrick Holmes said having a Māori ward had enriched the council, and it would be a "great shame" if the council were to go backwards now - a theme repeated by councillor Scott McKenzie."[Local Government Minister] Simeon Brown was on the TV at the weekend and he said, 'All we're doing is going back to how it was in Helen Clark's time'. Well, we don't want to go back 20 years. We want to create a better and fairer democracy."Councillor Ken Couper, meanwhile, described Thursday's debate as "momentous" and "wonderful"."The drama, the passion … it happens sometimes in this chamber, but not often to the extent we've seen today."Democracy Northland founder John Bain speaks out against Māori wards. Photo: Peter de Graaf / RNZThe meeting started with Ngā Hāpū o Whangārei representative Delaraine Armstrong and Tim Howard calling on the council to retain the Māori ward - and even follow the Northland Regional council's lead by pushing back against the government's directive to hold a binding poll - while Democracy Northlander founder John Bain and Frank Newman argued the Māori ward was not needed and based on the "lie" that Māori were under-represented in local government.Earlier this week, Northland Regional Council went a step further, with councillors voting 8-1 to retain their two-seat Te Raki Māori ward, and 6-3 to seek advice on the consequences of not holding a poll at the 2025 elections.During a fiery meeting earlier this month, the Kaipara District Council leapt in the opposite direction, voting 6-3 to disestablish its Te Moananui o Kaipara Māori ward from 2025.It was the first council in the country to use the new law to abolish a Māori ward.Kaipara's decision was however being challenged by Ngāti Whatua, which has requested a judicial review.Far North District councillors have already indicated they intend to retain the four-seat Ngā Tai o Tokerau Māori Ward. They are due to hold a formal vote on 5 September.This story was first published by RNZ

When Awanui farmer, Kevin Matthews, spotted an unusual plant in the sand dunes on Te Oneroa-a-Tōhe - Ninety Mile Beach, he knew he was looking at a highly invasive and toxic weed known as sea spurge.Harmful to humans and animals, the Africa and Asia native is causing major environmental damage on the coasts of Western Australia and Tasmania and is starting to appear on New Zealand shores. In this video Ceres Sharp, Biosecurity Officer with Northland Regional Council explains why sea spurge (Euphorbia paralias) is a threat and why pulling it out of the ground is the last thing you should do when you find it on the beach or in the dunes. A nation-wide programme to stop sea spurge spreading is being led by the Ministry for Primary Industries, partnered with regional councils and the Department of Conservation. If you find sea spurge, please call the Ministry for Primary Industries pest and diseases hotline on 0800 80 99 66 – and your local Northland Regional Council office – or please click on this link to report it, as soon as possible: Sea spurge - Pest control hub - Northland Regional Council (nrc.govt.nz)

Persistence Pays OffOver 18 months ago, I reached out to NZTA regarding the lack of signage before the Pūhoi off-ramp that identified it as an alternative route to Warkworth. I was told that the existing signage was adequate. However, given the impact on businesses in Warkworth—particularly at The Grange—when the motorway opened, I believed that promoting the old route as an option for travelers, especially tourists who would enjoy a slower journey, was important.I kept at it, phoning and emailing every month, even reaching out to NZTA Board members Tracy Martin and Victoria Carter. Finally, in December, I received an email confirming that they had reconsidered and would be erecting new signage. I was thrilled and confident that we’d soon see the signs in place. After persistent follow-ups since February, the signs are finally up. It’s hard to say exactly what effect this will have, but I’m hopeful we’ll see more traffic coming into town from the south instead of bypassing us.The reason I share this is because it highlights that persistence does pay off. Sometimes, whether in business or dealing with government agencies, you have to keep pushing to get the results you want.As a Business Association, we rely on feedback from our members to understand what you need from us—be it with more educational support through seminars, additional networking opportunities, or something we haven’t yet considered or had the funds to provide. That’s why our current Business Health Check survey is so important. We need your input to deliver the best products and services within our budget or to find ways to fund whatever it is that will help your business thrive.Please take a moment to fill out the survey below so we can set the right priorities for you.Also, our AGM 2024 is coming up on the 25th of September. Now, I know the thought of an AGM might not exactly fill you with excitement, but sometimes it’s all about changing your perspective.Think of it as a networking opportunity—it doesn’t take long, and you’ll get a chance to find out what’s been happening with the town over the last 12 months. We’d love to see more of you there. Just remember, to vote, you need to be a BID Affiliate member (either a commercial landowner or a business renting within the BID area) or an Associate member if you work from home or are outside the BID area.Membership forms will be available on the night or can be downloaded from our website. > onemahurangi.co.nz/join-one-mahurangiI look forward to seeing you all there. And remember, persistence pays off—never give up!Murray Chapman- Manager, One Mahurangi Business AssociationEmail: [email protected] read the full newsletter head here

Warkworth / Rodney RegionThursday 28th August - A few showers, turning to rain this evening, possibly heavy with squally thunderstorms in the west. Strong northwesterlies.Friday 29th August - Isolated showers clearing to fine before dawn. High cloud increasing in the evening. Westerlies, easing in the evening.Saturday 30th August - A few showers, turning to rain at night. Northerlies, becoming fresh in the morning.Sunday 31st August - Showers, some heavy, clearing to fine in the morning. Fresh northwesterlies, turning lighter southwesterly in the morning.Mangawhai / Kaipara RegionThursday 28th August - Showers, turning to rain this evening, possibly heavy with squally thunderstorms. Northwesterlies, fresh at times.Friday 29th August - Cloudy with the chance of a shower, clearing to fine before dawn. High cloud increasing in the evening. Light winds.Saturday 30th August - Mostly cloudy, with a few showers developing in the morning. Northerlies, becoming fresh in the morning.Sunday 31st August - Showers, some heavy, clearing to fine in the morning. Westerlies, easing in the afternoon.

Matakana Cemetery Stories - The Lost Sons One Sunday we visited the Boyd's Hill Cemetery on Kawau Island to find young Allan Wallace's grave. He was the infant son of George Wallace who lies in the Wallace Family Plot in Matakana Cemetery.George Wallace was born in Matakana in 1858, his father was George Blair Allan Wallace and his mother Mary Davies. Both, from Lockwinnoch, Renfrewshire, Lowlands of Scotland. George senior and his wife immigrated to New Zealand in 1855 aboard the barque "Cornubia". Also onboard were Mary's father, Hugh Davis and his family along with George Fraser.  They all came to New Zealand to work at Matthew Whytlaw's Flax Linen mill on the banks of Glen Eden River, Matakana. Around 1875 George junior now 15 years of age is working on Kawau Island as a gardener for Sir George Grey and this is where he met his wife Florence Creighton, who was working in the Grey's House (Mansion House). This is the grave of their first-born child - Allan Wallace.Alan Wallace NZ Engineers service no: 4/72A. Died from his wounds received at Gallipoli. Their fifth child they also named Alan, sadly was killed at Gallipoli, his memorial can be found at Lone Pine and Bertram. He was a Rhodes Scholar, a brilliant young man, tragically lost to us.Bertram Wallace: Buried at Cite Bonjean Military Cemetery, Armentieres, FranceBertram Wallace, their 6th child was killed in France. A Gunner in WW1, New Zealand Field Artillery, 4th (Howitzer) Battery. Killed in action 14 July 1916 Somme, Northern France at only age 22.Today we remember them all. Lest we forget.

The Environmental Protection Authority has issued an urgent alert for people to stop using weedkiller because of significant concerns about its effects on unborn children.The EPA began investigating Dacthal or DCPA herbicides last week after they were pulled off shelves in the United States.It is now urging people to avoid the herbicide, which is used to control annual grasses and broadleaf weeds in vegetable growing globally.Hazardous Substances Reassessments Manager Dr Shaun Presow said it issued the alert because it had serious concerns about the potential risks to people's health."We urge anyone currently using a product containing chlorthal-dimethyl to stop and to consider alternatives."If people can't avoid using these products, the EPA advises they take all precautions to avoid exposure for people who are pregnant or could be pregnant."This includes restricting access to sprayed areas and making sure nobody else is around during spraying Presow said.The US Environmental Protection Agency found a risk of thyroid hormone changes in the unborn children of pregnant bystanders, women who apply chlorthal-dimethyl, or those who enter treated fields after the substance has been applied.These changes can cause low birth weight and irreversible and lifelong impacts, such as impaired brain development and motor skills.Presow said the EPA had set up a working group to look at how this herbicide is being used here, and to take rapid action to ensure it continued protecting people's health and safety."While this is happening, we have put out a red alert to ensure the public is aware of the potential risks."Presow said The EPA is consulting with those likely to be affected by any proposed additional rules around the use DCPA herbicides.Horticulture New Zealand said Dacthal was outdated and the vast majority of growers preferred to use newer herbicides.This story was originally published by RNZ

Police are appealing to the public for information about a vehicle of interest as part of an investigation into a Dargaville woman’s death.Enquiries are still ongoing into the unexplained death of Joanna (Jo) Mai Sione-Lauaki, 38, who was discovered between Omamari Beach and Aranga Beach on Friday 2 August.Detective Senior Sergeant Aaron Crawford, Northland CIB, says Police are now seeking information and sightings regarding of a vehicle of interest.The vehicle is a white 2012 Toyota Hilux flat deck Ute, with no registration plates, with an orange hazard light on the roof and aluminium dog cages on the back.“We believe this vehicle to have been in the same area where Jo’s body was discovered.“Police would like to hear from anyone who saw this vehicle leading up to and around Friday 1 August in the Baylys or Omamari beach areas near Dargaville.“Anyone who saw this vehicle, or has any dashcam footage of this vehicle from that day is urged to come forward.”Detective Senior Sergeant Crawford says Police are continuing to work hard to piece together the events leading up to Jo’s death and any information, no matter how small could assist in bring the case to a close.If you were in these areas between these times and have any photos or videos which may be relevant, please upload them here: https://cloth.nc3.govt.nzAnyone with information can call Police on 105 and quote file number 240803/9062.Alternatively, if you would like to speak to a member of the investigation team in person you can present to the Dargaville Police Station.Information can also be provided anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.

Officers at a roadside breath-test checkpoint have disrupted an alleged kidnapping in Northland on Saturday night, leading to the arrest of two men.An investigation is now under way to untangle details of the night’s events.What is known is that about 10.50pm on 24 August, officers in the Impairment Prevention Team were running a checkpoint on Riverside Drive in Whangārei when an occupant jumped out of a car and raised concerning claims.Based on the information, Police quickly arrested the driver, a 31-year-old patched member of the Crips, who was the only other occupant of the car.Police spoke with the driver and his passenger before turning their focus to a Eureka Place address, where two more people were allegedly being held against their will.A significant operation involving the Armed Offenders Squad, Police Negotiation Team and Criminal Investigation Branch was launched.The address was kept under observation while an armed response was prepared.About midnight, a vehicle was seen leaving the address, running over road spikes laid in advance.The vehicle was pursued and continued at speed, before stopping at a carpark in the city, where the sole occupant, a 22-year-old man and Patched Nomad gang member, was taken into custody.Two victims were located inside the Eureka Place address and established no offenders were outstanding.Whangārei Area Commander Inspector Maria Nordstrom says the incident was unpredictable and the victim at the checkpoint showed great courage by raising the alarm.“The officers at that checkpoint went from carrying out breath-tests to dealing with an active kidnapping in the blink of an eye.They have not wasted a moment to act on what were very concerning claims.“I’m proud of the response and how the officers involved brought a potentially dangerous event to a safe resolution, with no injuries to any of the parties involved.“The investigation team will continue to speak to those involved today and charges are likely once we establish the motives behind this event.”

Warkworth / Rodney RegionMonday 26th August - Cloudy periods. Isolated showers developing this afternoon. Northwesterlies.Tuesday 27th August - Showers, easing in the afternoon. Fresh northerlies, turning westerly in the morning.Wednesday 28th August - Mainly fine, a few showers. Fresh westerlies, easing in the afternoon.Thursday 29th August - The odd shower, turning to rain late. Fresh northwesterlies.Friday 30th August - Rain, clearing and becoming fine. Southerlies.Saturday 31st August - Showers. Northerlies.Sunday 1st September - A few showers with westerlies.Mangawhai / Northland RegionMonday 26th August - Cloudy periods, chance of a shower from afternoon. Northwesterlies.Tuesday 27th August - Showers, clearing to partly cloudy in the afternoon. Fresh northerlies, turning lighter westerly in the morningWednesday 28th August - Partly cloudy. Fresh westerlies, easing in the afternoon.Thursday 29th August - A few showers, turning to rain late. Fresh northwesterlies.Friday 30th August - Showers, clearing to partly cloudy weather. Southwesterlies.Saturday 31st August - Showers. Northwesterlies.Sunday 1st September - A few showers with westerlies.

Hato Hone St John says Saturday's rolling strikes by ambulance drivers took place without any harm to patients.The 24-hour action by members of FIRST Union and the Ambulance Association finished at 4am on Sunday.St John deputy chief executive Dan Ohs said the ambulance service was helped by people with non urgent matters who found their own transport to a medical facility or hospital, or called their doctor, pharmacy or Healthline."Despite a challenging day, Hato Hone St John has not yet identified any adverse incidents or patient harm resulting from strikes throughout Saturday," Ohs told RNZ late on Saturday night."Our focus throughout the day was to maintain a safe level of service for New Zealanders and we would like to thank our own people who have contributed to this effort."The strike followed similar industrial action earlier in the week, the first ever carried out by ambulance workers. Ohs said about 300 ambulance workers and call-centre staff took part in the Tuesday strike, and about 250 on Saturday.Like other essential health services, ambulance services are covered by the Life Preserving Services framework, which required ambulance providers and unions to work constructively to maintain core services that prevent a serious threat to life or permanent disability during strike action.Unions have warned more strike action was likely, unless the government came up with more cash for ambulance services.Ohs said the focus next was on "getting back to the bargaining table next week to discuss moving forward with our unions".The charity would also be seeking more funding from the government in 2026, rather than relying on donations to pay its bills. At present, about 83 percent is taxpayer-funded."The rest is funded by fundraising, part-charge, and commercial activities," Ohs said."We are grateful for what we have received from our purchasers in recent years, which has enabled more frontline staff. However, the cost to run the ambulance service has been significantly affected by high inflation and increased demand."We remain focused on getting our people back to work and moving towards 100 percent operational funding."This story was originally posted on RNZ News

Transport Agency Waka Kotahi advises of the following closures for motorway improvements. Work delayed by bad weather will be completed at the next available date, prior to Friday, 30 August 2024.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 Orewa off-ramp and Silverdale on-ramp, 25-26 AugustOrewa southbound on-ramp, 25-26 AugustMillwater southbound on-ramp, 25-26 AugustNorthbound lanes between Silverdale off-ramp and Orewa on-ramp, 25-26 AugustSilverdale northbound on-ramp, 25-26 AugustCENTRAL MOTORWAY JUNCTION (CMJ)Grafton Road eastbound on-ramp, 25-29 August (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)SOUTHERN MOTORWAY (SH1)Khyber Pass Road northbound off-ramp, 25 AugustGillies Avenue northbound on-ramp, 25 AugustEllerslie-Panmure Highway northbound off-ramp, 25 AugustNorthbound lanes between Manukau off-ramp and East Tamaki Road on-ramp, 27 & 29 August (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)Te Irirangi Drive northbound on-ramp, 27 & 29 AugustRedoubt Road northbound on-ramp, 27 & 29 AugustSouthbound lanes between Takanini off-ramp and Drury/SH22 on-ramp, 25-28 August (approx. 9:30pm to 5:30am)Takanini southbound on-ramp, 25-28 August (approx. 9:00pm to 5:30am)Papakura (Loop) southbound on-ramp, 25-28 August (approx. 9:00pm to 5:30am)Papakura (Diamond) southbound on-ramp, 25-28 August (approx. 9:00pm to 5:30am)Southbound lanes between Papakura off-ramp and Drury/SH22 on-ramp, 23 August (approx. 10:00pm to 5:30am)Papakura (Loop) southbound on-ramp, 23 August (approx. 9:00pm to 5:30am)Papakura (Diamond) southbound on-ramp, 23 August (approx. 9:00pm to 5:30am)Southbound lanes between Papakura off-ramp and Drury/SH22 on-ramp, 29 AugustPapakura (Loop) southbound on-ramp, 29 AugustPapakura (Diamond) southbound on-ramp, 29 AugustNorthbound lanes between Drury/SH22 off-ramp and Takanini on-ramp, 25-26 & 28 AugustPapakura (Diamond) northbound on-ramp, 25-26 & 28 AugustPapakura (Loop) northbound on-ramp, 25-26 & 28 AugustDrury/SH22 northbound on-ramp, 25-26 & 28 AugustNorthbound lanes between Drury/SH22 off-ramp and Papakura on-ramp, 27 & 29 August Drury/SH22 northbound on-ramp, 27 & 29 AugustBombay southbound on-ramp, 29 August (approx. 8:00pm to 5:00am)Beaver Road East southbound off-ramp, 29 AugustBeaver Road East southbound on-ramp, 29 AugustNikau Road southbound off-ramp, 29 AugustSouthbound lanes between Nikau Road off-ramp and Nikau Road on-ramp, 28 August (approx. 9:30pm to 5:00am)Northbound lanes between Ridge Road off-ramp and Nikau Road on-ramp, 28 August (approx. 9:30pm to 5:00am)Razorback Road southbound off-ramp, 28 August (approx. 9:30pm to 5:00am)SH1 southbound to SH2 eastbound link, 28 August (approx. 9:30pm to 5:00am)\Southbound lanes between Pokeno off-ramp and Pokeno on-ramp, 28 August (approx. 9:30pm to 5:00am)Northbound lanes between Pokeno off-ramp and Pokeno on-ramp, 28 August (approx. 9:30pm to 5:00am)Ridge Road northbound off-ramp, 25 August (approx. 8:00pm to 5:00am)Razorback Road northbound on-ramp, 25 August (approx. 8:00pm to 5:00am)SH1 northbound to SH2 eastbound link, 25 AugustPokeno northbound on-ramp, 25 August (approx. 8:00pm to 5:00am)Pokeno southbound off-ramp, 27 August (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)Pokeno southbound on-ramp, 27 AugustPioneer Road southbound off-ramp, 27 August (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)Southbound lanes between Mercer off-ramp and Mercer on-ramp, 27 August (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)Northbound lanes between Mercer off-ramp and Mercer on-ramp, 27 August (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)Pokeno northbound off-ramp, 26 August (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)Pioneer Road northbound off-ramp, 26 August (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)Southbound lanes between Mercer off-ramp and Mercer on-ramp, 26 AugustNorthbound lanes between Mercer off-ramp and Mercer on-ramp, 26 AugustNORTHWESTERN MOTORWAY (SH16)Southbound lanes between Waimauku Roundabout and Foster Road, 26 & 29 August (approx. 8:00pm to 5:00am)Northbound lanes between Foster Road and Waimauku Roundabout, 26 & 29 August (approx. 8:00pm to 5:00am)Southbound lanes between Waimauku Roundabout and Trigg Road, 25 & 27-28 August (approx. 8:00pm to 5:00am)Northbound lanes between Trigg Road and Waimauku Roundabout, 25 & 27-28 August (approx. 8:00pm to 5:00am)Southbound lanes between Brigham Creek Roundabout off-ramp and Lincoln Road on-ramp, 29 AugustHobsonville Road southbound on-ramp, 29 AugustRoyal Road southbound on-ramp, 29 AugustNorthbound lanes between Te Atatu Road off-ramp and Lincoln Road on-ramp, 26-28 AugustTe Atatu Road northbound on-ramp, 26-28 AugustUPPER HARBOUR MOTORWAY (SH18)SH18 westbound to SH16 southbound link, 29 AugustSOUTHWESTERN MOTORWAY (SH20)Dominion Road northbound off-ramp, 25-27 AugustMassey Road southbound on-ramp, 25 AugustNorthbound Service Road (Cavendish Drive to Puhinui Road), 29 August (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)Lambie Drive southbound on-ramp, 27 & 29 AugustSH20 southbound to SH1 northbound link, 27 & 29 August (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)SH20 southbound to SH1 southbound link, 27 & 29 August (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)STATE HIGHWAY 2 (SH2)SH2 westbound to SH1 southbound, 28 August (approx. 9:30pm to 5:00am)SH2 westbound to SH1 northbound, 25 August.Please follow the signposted detours. NZ Transport Agency thanks you for your co-operation during these essential improvements and maintenance.

Police have made an arrest in connection with an ongoing homicide investigation in Tikipunga.Whangārei CIB have been investigating since the fire occurred on Thomas Street just after 3am on Monday 29 April 2024.The sole occupant of the address, Hoani Reuben, also known as John, died as result of the fire.Detective Senior Sergeant John Clayton says earlier this week Police arrested and charged a man in relation to the investigation.“A 48-year-old man has been arrested and charged with arson.“He has been remanded in custody and will reappear in Whangārei District Court on 16 September.”Enquiries will continue into the homicide, and further charges cannot be ruled out.“We can reassure the community that we are not seeking anyone else in connection with Mr Reuben’s death,” Detective Senior Sergeant Clayton says.Police acknowledge the public for their assistance throughout this investigation.“We would like to thank every person who called us or came into a station to provide information in relation to this homicide.“I’d also like to thank our team, who have worked tirelessly throughout this investigation.”As the matter is now before the Court, Police are limited in providing further comment.

New Zealand Food Safety (NZFS) is supporting Delmaine in its recall of Delmaine Fine Foods and Woolworths brand antipasto products due to the possible presence of Listeria monocytogenes bacteria.The affected products are sold at supermarkets and retail outlets throughout New Zealand.These products should not be eaten. You can return them to the place of purchase for a refund or, if that’s not possible, throw them out.Listeria, can cause serious illness in pregnant people and their unborn babies, newborns, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems.If you have consumed any of these products and are concerned for your health, contact your health professional, or call Healthline on 0800 611 116 for free advice.Delmaine Fine Foods brand Five Olive Mix (200g)Use By between: 16/10/24 - 20/11/24.Delmaine Fine Foods brand Jumbo Olive Selection (200g)Use By between: 09/10/24 - 27/11/24.Delmaine Fine Foods brand Pitted Olive Medley (180g)Use By between: 9/10/24 - 4/12/24.Delmaine Fine Foods brand Stuffed Olive Mix (160g)Use By of: 5/12/24.Delmaine Fine Foods brand Mediterranean Antipasto Mix (215g)Use By between: 16/10/24-20/11/24.Delmaine Fine Foods brand Marinated Feta (150g)Use By between: 10/10/24 - 4/12/24.Delmaine Fine Foods brand Stuffed Red Peppers (190g)Use By between: 24/10/24 - 5/12/24.Delmaine Fine Foods brand Marinated Sundried Tomatoes (200g)Use By between: 10/10/24 - 4/12/24.Delmaine Fine Foods brand Sundried Tomatoes (270g)Use By between: 7/04/25 - 30/04/25Woolworths brand Feta and Sundried Tomatoes (200g)Use By between: 21/11/24 - 25/12/24.Woolworths brand Greek Mix (200g)Use By between: 20/11/24 - 1/01/25.Woolworths brand Olive Selection (200g)Use By between: 13/11/24 - 25/12/24.Delmaine Fine Foods brand Woolworths Deli ProductsDelmaine brand Mediterranean MixSold Between 22 July 2024 – 23 August 2024Delmaine brand Italian MixSold Between 22 July 2024 – 23 August 2024Delmaine brand Marinated Sundried TomatoesSold Between 22 July 2024 – 23 August 2024Delmaine brand Marinated Feta & Sundried TomatoesSold Between 22 July 2024 – 23 August 2024

We have some NEW Accommodation listings for you on the app.Check them out and SUPPORT LOCAL!Martins Bay Holiday Park located at the end of Mahurangi East Peninsula is a beachfront holiday park offering various accommodation options, including cabins, glamping tents, and camping sites. Facilities include two playgrounds, a recreation room, boat ramps, and kayak/SUP rental. And the beach itself is wonderful for swimming and boating.The Green Tent in Matakana is a boutique glamping experience offering a luxurious, self-contained Mongolian-style yurt. The accommodation includes modern amenities like air conditioning, WiFi, and an outdoor bath, set in a private rural location close to Matakana village.Snells Beach Motel located in the heart of Snells Beach. They offer self-contained one and two-bedroom units, some with double spa baths. Guests can enjoy a heated swimming pool set in a subtropical garden. The motel is within walking distance of safe swimming beaches and close to popular attractions like vineyards, regional parks, and markets​.Pakiri Beach Holiday Park offers a variety of accommodations including beachfront units with ocean views, cabins, and campsites for tents, caravans, and motorhomes. The park is set on 9 km of pristine white sand, ideal for swimming, fishing, surfing, or simply relaxing. It is located just 90 minutes north of Auckland and 20 minutes from Matakana.Aotearoa Surf Accommodation offers unique accommodations, including Eco Pods and Glamping Teepees, nestled in subtropical gardens with panoramic ocean views. This location is popular for its surf and stay packages, catering to families, couples, and solo travellers. The site provides easy access to some of the North Island’s best surf spots, and guests can enjoy surfing lessons, paddleboarding, and kayaking.📱 If you want your business to be on the App get in contact [email protected] or Contact