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Matakana Coast Trail rebranded to The Coastal Trail and other updates
Matakana Coast Trail rebranded to The Coastal Trail and other updates

31 October 2024, 1:18 AM

Matakana Coast Trail rebranded to The Coastal TrailWe are excited to unveil our new identity as The Coastal Trail. This rebrand marks a revitalised chapter for our community project. This new identity captures the spirit of what makes this project so special: the seamless blend of community, native bush, and stunning coastline.When completed, The Coastal Trail will offer locals and visitors a sustainable and safe way to explore the region's breathtaking landscapes, all while connecting our coastal communities from Pūhoi to Mangawhai via the Matakana Coast.Be sure to visit our new website at www.thecoastaltrail.co.nz, and keep an eye out for our upcoming billboards and informative marketing initiatives!Progress On The Ground: Construction Beginning Next Week!We are thrilled to announce that construction is starting next week on a critical 2.2km section of the trail, linking Point Wells to the Matakana Country Park via Omaha Flats and Point Wells Road. This development marks a major milestone, improving safety and accessibility for walkers and cyclists.Our goal is to complete this section by the end of summer, transforming a once hazardous route into a welcoming path for all to enjoy. This progress wouldn't be possible without tremendous community assistance that has resulted in us raising over $1 million worth of community support for this project!We are especially grateful to Hutchinson Consulting Engineers for their generous pro bono services and Mason Contractors for their construction support. Their contributions, along with the efforts of many local businesses, have been instrumental in advancing this project. Thank you for believing in the vision of The Coastal Trail!Join Us For The Trail-Raiser FundraiserSave the date! On Sunday, November 17th, from 3 PM. We're hosting an exciting fundraising event at The Sawmill Brewery. Excellent beer, food stalls, Charlies Gelato, Live Music, Kids games & face painting, raffles & more!Plus we're launching our Limited-Edition TRAIL RAISER Matakana Oyster Stout.Proceeds will go towards the development of The Coastal Trail. It's a perfect opportunity to celebrate, meet fellow trail supporters, and enjoy great food, entertainment, and community spirit. We look forward to seeing you there!

Mangamuka Gorge in Northland to finally reopen
Mangamuka Gorge in Northland to finally reopen

30 October 2024, 6:34 PM

Peter de GraafFar North residents are in for the best Christmas present they could have hoped for with State Highway 1 through the Mangamuka Gorge due to reopen on 20 December.The vital section of highway, south of Kaitāia, has been closed since a storm in August 2022 triggered dozens of destructive slips.The slip-prone, 13km-long section of highway had only been open for a year after a previous closure for storm repairs.The closure has forced Mangamuka residents to take a long detour around the west coast to get to Kaitāia, their main service town as well as a centre for jobs and schooling.The long-awaited reopening date was announced today by Transport Minister Simeon Brown and Northland MP Grant McCallum.The news that the road would be open in time for Christmas was cause for celebration, McCallum saidIt also meant Northland would be able to take full advantage of the influx of summer visitors.He also encouraged other New Zealanders to seize the chance and see what Northland had to offer."Northlanders have been incredibly patient as work has progressed. I want to recognise them and the many workers who put in over 530,000 hours on site to get this essential project done," he said.The closure of the highway turned the settlement of Mangamuka - once a busy pit stop on the road to Kaitāia - into a virtual ghost town on a dead-end road.It also threatened the survival of Mangamuka Dairy, the town's only shop and a vital social hub.The $100-million-plus project to rebuild the road was initially due to have been completed in May 2024, but another big storm in 2023 increased the number of slips from 26 to 38.The damage caused by the August 2022 deluge was so severe there were fears the gorge would never reopen, as was the fate of some Northland roads after Cyclone Bola in 1988.This article was originally published by RNZ

NEW TO THE APP - Trades 🛠
NEW TO THE APP - Trades 🛠

29 October 2024, 5:53 PM

We have some new business listings for you to check out. Remember to SUPPORT LOCAL!!Under the Trades button📱 If you want your business to be on the App get in contact [email protected] ⚡ D & G Electrical Ltd - Devan has been an Electrician for 40 years in the Warkworth area and self-employed for 20 years. He started his apprenticeship at Snells Beach when he was 17 years old. He has undertaken high end housing projects as well as commercial buildings and landscape lighting. Devan currently has his son Regan working for him and he is on his final year as an apprentice. Give them a call for all your Electrical needs in & around Warkworth. 🔨 KML Construction, based in Matakana, specialises in transforming clients' visions into finely crafted homes. Their services include new builds, renovations, reclads, and maintenance, with a strong emphasis on attention to detail and client satisfaction. Serving areas from Puhoi to Mangawhai, they ensure projects are completed on time and within budget. 🌳 Oakcraft Floors, originating from the esteemed Footprint Floors in Sydney, brings over two decades of experience to the design and installation of bespoke timber flooring in New Zealand. Specialising in hardwood floors, bespoke staircases, and feature walls, they cater to both residential and commercial clients. 🔑 Armstrong Smarter Security Warkworth is your trusted locksmith partner, offering 24/7 expert services for residential, commercial, and automotive needs. They provide fast, reliable solutions. Their services include emergency lockout assistance, lock repairs, key cutting, security system installations, and advanced automotive locksmithing. 🏡 Modern Barn Living specialises in the design and construction of contemporary barn-style homes, merging architectural elegance with modern functionality. They offer a range of services, including custom designs and ready-to-go plans, tailored to diverse preferences. Modern Barn Living provides fixed-priced contracts and 10-year guarantees on all builds.💥 SG Fabrication Ltd is a family-owned metalwork fabrication business based in Warkworth, specialising in high-end architectural finishes for the hospitality, residential, and retail sectors. Renowned for their commitment to both quality and affordability, they offer custom metalwork solutions designed to meet the unique needs of each project. SG Fabrication is dedicated to delivering precision craftsmanship and exceptional service.

Mahurangi East Community Centre and library update
Mahurangi East Community Centre and library update

28 October 2024, 6:10 PM

The extensive renovation of the Mahurangi East Community Centre is set to be completed, and the centre reopen in February, thanks to a reallocation of funding from Rodney Local Board.The centre is undergoing major repairs to fix weathertightness problems and strengthen its resistance to earthquakes. However significant issues have been discovered throughout the building that also need addressing. As a result, the Rodney Local Board has redirected $2.1 million from other long-term projects to complete the work.Board chair Brent Bailey says the centre is an important asset for the Snells Beach community and is well-used by library users, many community groups, and has the only indoor court space in the area.“The work must continue to fix the centre and future-proof it to meet the needs of the community now and for the future.“It is a huge undertaking, and with all the unexpected issues, the scale of the project has grown and impacted the construction timeline and budget which has to increase significantly,” Bailey says.The extensive changes include replacing the old roof which had substantial water damage with a new roof, fixing widespread structural issues such as load bearing walls, the balustrade and supports for the mezzanine floor, a new library floor, a new heating system, better security and access control systems, a new kitchen, and additional work to meet seismic and fire compliance requirements.Bailey says,” After careful consideration and council staff advice, the funding has come from other multi-year projects which haven’t yet started construction. The total budget for each of the deferred projects is the same but construction has been delayed.The list of deferred projects are:Helensville A&P Showgrounds – refurbish various buildingsMuriwai Village Green – skate facility, courts and car parkRiverhead War Memorial Park pavilionWaimauku Memorial Hall – stage 2 of the heritage hall restorationRefurbish various community buildingsTe Hana Reserve – playground, court and skate facility.Bailey says, “As a local board, we will keep a close eye on any assets which are impacted by the projects being delayed, and if there is a need, we can prioritise delivery through our future work programme.”Read the full report in the Rodney Local Board Meeting agenda on 16 October 2024 at infocouncil.govt.nz (item 12)

Police name mystery woman found dead in Gulf Harbour as Shulai Wang of China
Police name mystery woman found dead in Gulf Harbour as Shulai Wang of China

27 October 2024, 8:08 PM

Police have named the mystery woman found dead in Auckland's Gulf Harbour seven months ago as Shulai Wang, 70, of China.Her remains were found inside a bag, pulled out of the sea by a fisherman on 12 March.Kaixiao Liu, 36, and Lanyue Xiao, 36 have since been charged in relation to the homicide investigation.They were charged with offering an indignity to a dead human body after being stopped and arrested at the airport in early July.They have plead not guilty and are currently on bail.Kaixiao Liu, 36, and Lanyue Xiao, 36 appear in court. Photo: NZ Herald / Dean PurcellVideos of Kaixiao Liu singing what appears to be Christian worship music have been uploaded to YouTube in recent months.Extensive work had been done out to identify the victim, including officers going to China, acting Detective Inspector Tim Williams, of Waitematā CIB, saidWang came to New Zealand in August 2023 from China, Williams said."She had no family in New Zealand and had not been reported missing,' he said.Police at the scene, including an intert of the clothing items she was found wearing. Photo: Supplied"Mrs Wang's family back in China have been advised of her death and we are working with them and international authorities to repatriate Mrs Wang and return her to her family"The investigation team has been working tirelessly in the months since the homicide investigation was launched to piece together who this victim was, and the events leading up to her death.The investigation into Wang's death was ongoing, police said.This story was originally published by RNZ

Labour Day: Honouring the past, addressing present challenges, and looking to the future
Labour Day: Honouring the past, addressing present challenges, and looking to the future

27 October 2024, 6:00 PM

Labour Day in New Zealand is a public holiday that celebrates the achievements of workers and the labour movement, particularly their efforts to secure an eight-hour workday. The origins of this holiday date back to the 1840s, when carpenter Samuel Parnell, a pioneer in advocating for workers’ rights, famously refused to work more than eight hours a day in Wellington. His stance quickly gained support from other tradespeople, and by 1840, the eight-hour workday became a standard for many workers in the city.The labour movement continued to grow throughout the 19th century, with trade unions forming and workers rallying for better conditions, fair pay, and reasonable hours. The first official Labour Day celebration took place on October 28, 1890, marking the 50th anniversary of the eight-hour day movement. It became a public holiday in 1899, recognising the vital role of workers in shaping the country's economy and society.Labour Day is not unique to Aotearoa—many countries around the world also celebrate similar holidays. International Workers' Day, or "May Day," is observed on May 1st in numerous nations, including most of Europe, Latin America, and parts of Asia. In these countries, Labour Day is often a time for demonstrations, parades, and political events, highlighting workers' rights and ongoing struggles for fair labour practices. Challenges in workplace equality persist in New Zealand, particularly in relation to the gender pay gap. As of 2023, women in New Zealand still earn, on average, less than men for comparable work. The national gender pay gap is about 9.2%, with factors like occupational segregation, unconscious bias, and unequal access to career progression contributing to the disparity. The gap is even wider for Māori and Pasifika women, who face additional barriers.In addition to the ongoing conversation around pay equity, many businesses are now trialling innovative approaches to work-life balance, including the four-day work week. This model, which maintains full pay while reducing work hours, has gained traction as companies seek to improve productivity, employee well-being, and job satisfaction. The trials have shown promising results, sparking discussions about the future of work and what the next step in workers’ rights might look like.Another factor set to reshape the workforce here and globally is the rise of artificial intelligence (AI). While AI offers the potential to revolutionise industries, streamline operations, and drive innovation, it also raises concerns about job displacement. Automation and AI technologies could replace jobs in sectors such as manufacturing, customer service, and even administrative roles. Some fear that this shift could lead to widespread unemployment, particularly for lower-skilled workers, potentially pushing the country towards higher dependence on social benefits.However, the future of AI is not solely about job loss. Experts argue that while some jobs may be automated, new types of work will emerge, requiring skills that AI cannot easily replicate, such as creativity, emotional intelligence, and complex problem-solving. The challenge lies in preparing New Zealand’s workforce for this transition—through education, upskilling, and support for workers in adapting to a rapidly changing economy.The future of work will depend on striking a balance between technological progress and ensuring that the workforce remains equipped and supported to thrive in an AI-driven economy.Labour Day serves as both a celebration of past victories and a reminder of the work still to be done to ensure fair and just conditions for workers around the world.

Surf Life Saving issues safety messages as patrols begin
Surf Life Saving issues safety messages as patrols begin

26 October 2024, 11:44 PM

Surf Life Saving New Zealand is predicting a busy summer season, thanks to the increased chance of serious weather events and above-average temperatures..The long weekend sees the start of summer surf life saving patrols along Aotearoa's coastlines.Surf Life Saving's Chris Emmett said by summer's peak there would be 96 patrolled locations nationwide, and they all relied on an amazing group of volunteers.They had been at work over the winter keeping up their knowledge and fitness, and they were keen to begin beach patrols again, he said.But the volunteers needed the public to support them by being aware of risks and making good decisions around water, he said."Keeping people safe is not something that surf lifeguards can do on their own. We need the public to help their local clubs to ensure everyone stays safe."Volunteers were "incredibly well prepared, trained and committed to supporting the public", Emmett said."Our surf lifeguards across the country are a friendly, approachable presence ... [and] we encourage beachgoers to come and ask us questions, find out about the beach and water conditions for that day, hazards to watch out for, and what the tides are doing."Many of our patrolled beaches also have informative signs that display this key information, so we also encourage everyone to look out for these."This year, Surf Life Saving has released its key beach safety messages in te reo Māori as well as English Surf Life Saving's 2024-25 beach safety messagesKnow how to float - me mōhio koe me pēhea te mānu. If you don't know how to float, don't go into the water. Just being able to float when you are in the water can increase your chance of survival. Floating allows you to calm yourself and keep your airways out of the water.Find the safest place to swim - kimihia te wāhi haumaru rawa ki te kaukau. Remember if you are heading to the beach, check www.safeswim.org.nz to find a lifeguarded beach, and always swim between the red and yellow flags.If in doubt, stay out - mehemea e rangirua ana, me noho ki waho. Waves can be bigger than they look, dangerous rip currents are hard to spot and weather conditions can be unpredictable. If you feel uncomfortable about getting into the water, stay out. It's better to be safe than sorry.Take care of others - tiakina te tangata. Always keep children within arm's reach in or near the water. Waves can move quickly and unexpectedly and can knock kids off their feet and sweep them away. Watch out for your mates too.Know how to get help - me mōhio koe me pēhea te kimi āwhina. If someone in the water is in trouble and surf lifeguards are on patrol, let them know. If you can't see any surf lifeguards, call 111 and ask for police. If you're in the water and in trouble yourself, signal for help.This story was originally posted on RNZ News

Northland ED doctor Gary Payinda speaks out on dire state of Whangārei Hospital
Northland ED doctor Gary Payinda speaks out on dire state of Whangārei Hospital

26 October 2024, 6:43 PM

An Northland emergency doctor says the health system is in a death spiral with woeful understaffing, budget constraints and leaky buildings - and the government's priorities are all wrong.The Whangārei Hospital rebuild is officially in the red - meaning government officials have labelled it a project at significant risk due to insufficient funds.It comes on the heels of the Dunedin Hospital rebuild facing significant budget cuts.The Labour government rubber-stamped a $750 million stage one revamp of Whangārei Hospital in 2022.The hospital - which was built in the 1950s - has a history of problems, including raw sewage leaking inside of walls, leaking roofs and lifts breaking down.Read more:Health NZ not keeping up with hospital upgrades, documents revealWhat's gone wrong with New Zealand's health system?How did Health NZ go from $500m of savings to a $1 billion hole?Whangārei Hospital emergency doctor Gary Payinda told Checkpoint issues at the Health NZ facility had been going on "for years"."We've been dealing with this for a long time, but things have really been accelerating in terms of the stresses on the system in the past year."Dr Gary Payinda has worked at Whangārei Hospital for 17 years and has never seen facilities so poor. Photo: SuppliedWhangārei Hospital had not been "fit for duty" for the past 15 to 20 years, he said, with clinicians saying it was "far too small", and the ED the waiting room "lacks privacy and is unsafe".They had been reduced to treating patients in back hallways and corridors, "which had never been a thing in the 17 years I've been here".The corridor beds were designed for "overflow" situations, but were now being used regularly as the emergency department was often up to 200 percent capacity."That means you've got 32 patients in all of the rooms, cubicles, seats in the department. Then you've got another 32 people in the waiting room... [which] can't accommodate anything like that."Then you've got ambulances coming in on top of that and those patients have to go somewhere, and so they go in a back corridor ... this is a new and depressing thing for us."Staff dreaded days when it rained in Northland, he said."It's depressing and unnecessary. It's inappropriate for a country like New Zealand to have a situation when it's raining outside heavily, it's raining inside as well, with water leaking through the ceiling tiles into the radiology department, captured in buckets."The leaks were putting expensive equipment such as CT scanners and an MRI machine at risk, he said."This is stuff that we are better than. It doesn't have to be this way at all."Even equipment past its use-by date could not be replaced, with the entire Northern region now competing for the same healthcare budget.Managers were "dejected", he said, "because they know they'll get one to zero of the 15 things they need. They're worried because they work in these departments and they understand the problem".When questioned by Checkpoint host Lisa Owen about delays to hospital developments, Payinda was scathing about the government's priorities."How come the government was able to find $16bn for tax cuts that mostly targeted the more well-off parts of our society and were able to immediately find $2.9bn to help landlords deduct their inter on their mortgages?"How come that money they were able to find so quickly and the money to care for patients suddenly is gone?"There's no money for it, there's no hope of money for it. It's galling. I could use stronger words, but it would be inappropriate."Recently, Dargaville had been struggling with no overnight doctor. Doctor staffing shortages are an issue all over the North, he said."I've been here for 17 years and we've always been able to staff Dargaville... and then they cut the rates for these doctors that were helping out, in some cases by 40 percent."And the question is: are we going to accept this as the new normal?"It did not have to be this way - this is an issue of priorities and there was money for other things. And we're just seeing the results of priorities, not of a lack of money."Response from Minister of Health Dr Shane RetiIn a statement, Minister of Health Dr Shane Reti said planning for the wider Whangārei Hospital redevelopment was ongoing."We know how important hospital facilities are for local populations, including the people of Whangārei and wider Northland and I'm pleased work has been progressing."Earlier this year, I opened the new Kotuku maternity and paediatric block. The old paediatric block was then able to be converted into 30 new adult beds."Just last week Whānau House - the first stage of the Whangārei Hospital redevelopment project Pihi Kaha - was opened, and Health NZ is also finalising plans for the new Child Health Unit Tira Ora."Whangārei Hospital is just one of a number of complex pieces of health infrastructure the Government is currently working through."As Minister Bishop and I have very recently reinforced around the next steps for New Dunedin Hospital, ongoing oversight of costing is vitally important. Huge cost overruns there can't be justified when hospitals around New Zealand are crying out for maintenance, upgrades and new facilities."As Ministers, we are concerned that badly needed infrastructure upgrades to Whangārei, Nelson, Hawke's Bay, Palmerston North and Tauranga hospitals may be put at risk if New Dunedin continues to go so far over budget."Health NZ responseIn a statement, Te Whatu Ora head of infrastructure delivery Blake Lepper said it had completed Whānau House and the rest of the Whangārei redevelopment was in the design phase."We are taking additional time with the design to ensure the most suitable facilities can be built, and in a timely manner."The rethink was "part of Health NZ's more streamlined, financially responsible approach to health infrastructure", the statement said."The focus of our work is ensuring that we are delivering a clinically safe and an operationally efficient campus at the end of each stage of the redevelopment. In addition, we are seeking to accelerate stages of the development so critical services become operational sooner."This story was originally posted by RNZ News

Marsden Point: New plan to revitalise former refinery
Marsden Point: New plan to revitalise former refinery

25 October 2024, 5:08 PM

Channel Infrastructure, formerly known as Refining New Zealand, aims to transform Marsden Point into an energy precinct with a range of projects to boost energy resilience and support decarbonisation goals.If realised, the Marsden Point Energy Precinct Concept forecasts an additional 2.5 billion litres of jet fuel would flow through Channel's infrastructure over the next 26 years, or about an additional 140 million litres per year over the next 10 years.The plan would also provide a liquid fuel decarbonisation pathway for aviation and a range of energy storage opportunities.Channel Infrastructure chief executive Rob Buchanan said the precinct would unlock the value of 120 hectares of underutilised land as well as its existing assets, including storage facilities, jetty and pipeline."Executing on these opportunities would build additional long-term, diversified, contracted revenue that is not dependent on fuel volume, from its current level of around 50 percent, while boosting New Zealand's energy resilience, and supporting decarbonisation," he said.Channel Infrastructure chairperson James Miller said the plan would offer benefits to regional New Zealand, with a combination of projects."For Northland, additional projects of this scale that would see manufacturing restored at Marsden Point could also bring important investment, with the retention of a skilled contractor base supporting economic growth in Northland," Miller said.Potential opportunities included manufacturing of other lower-carbon fuels, such as biofuels.This story was originally written by Nona Pelletier, Senior Business Reporter for RNZ News

One Mahurangi Business Association (OMBA) Update 24th October
One Mahurangi Business Association (OMBA) Update 24th October

24 October 2024, 8:53 PM

Two festivals down, one to go!The Mahurangi Winter Festival in July was a huge success, and last weekend we celebrated the 52nd Kowhai Festival, drawing around 8,000 people into town. Now, what's next on the agenda? The Santa Parade, Family Fun Day, and Carols in the Park, and—all happening on 7th December, promising a lively day in town for Warkworth.This year, things are a bit different. There won’t be any street stalls during the day, giving retailers a great chance to make the most of the morning and early afternoon before the Santa Parade kicks off at 2pm. Why not turn the 7th into a “Market Day”? Imagine every shop setting up a table out front, with retailers promoting the event to their networks. It could mean a bustling town filled with Christmas shoppers before the parade even begins—a win-win for everyone.After the parade, head over to the Lucy Moore end of Baxter Street for the prizegiving, followed by live music and food trucks, a coffee cart, Mr Whippy, and face painting. The Family Fun Day offers old-fashioned games like the Egg & Spoon race, Sack race, and even a Carry Your Spouse relay—activities for all ages, free of charge.It’s the perfect opportunity to get your Christmas shopping done, enjoy the festivities, and make a day of it with the whole family. The Carols in the Park will wrap up the evening from 7.30pm with the Warkworth Big Band—bring a picnic, grab a bite from the food trucks, and sing along under the stars.With the weather improving and interest rates easing, let's make this summer season one to remember. By shopping local, we can ensure a thriving and vibrant town for everyone.Murray ChapmanManager, One Mahurangi Business AssociationEmail: [email protected] Warkworth Information Centre1 Baxter Street, WarkworthOpen Weekdays 10am - 4pmonemahurangi.co.nz/warkworth-info-centreWarkworth caps, books, magnets, tote bags, and more! Get Warkworth souvenirs from the Warkworth Information Centre!// Community Noticeboard //From 21 November 2024, NZ Police will be actively enforcing new gang legislation. The purpose of the legislation is to reduce the ability of gangs to operate and cause fear, intimidation and disruption to the public. Read the full information sheet of the new legislation HERE>Facebook Event listing HERE>Facebook Event listing HERE>For the FULL OMBA newsletter head HERE

Police appeal to public following fatal Onehunga bus attack
Police appeal to public following fatal Onehunga bus attack

24 October 2024, 1:29 AM

UPDATE FRIDAY 25th - A man sought in connection with a fatality following an assault on a bus in Onehunga yesterday has been taken into custody.The 37-year-old man previously sought by Police handed himself in at North Shore Police station this afternoon.Police have launched a homicide investigation following the death of a woman in Onehunga yesterday.Auckland City Relieving District Crime Manager Acting Detective Inspector Alisse Robertson, says Police were notified of an incident onboard a bus travelling through Onehunga at about 2.30pm.“Police received a report that a person had been stabbed on a number 74 bus and upon arrival, a woman was located with multiple wounds.“Tragically, despite the best efforts of medical personnel and members of the public, she died at the scene.“Our thoughts are with her whānau at this time, and we are doing everything we can to support them.”Acting Detective Inspector Robertson says Police are making urgent enquiries to locate the offender and have identified a person of interest.“Our teams have been working through the night to find this person, who we believe is responsible for killing this woman.“We are following positive lines of enquiry and have been speaking to a number of people who have been assisting us in attempting to track him.”Acting Detective Inspector Robertson says Police are now seeking the public’s assistance to locate Kael Leona, who was last seen in the Mount Wellington area.Mr Leona is in his late 30s and was last seen wearing dark coloured pants, a black jumper with white writing on the front and white shoes.He also had a green t-shirt on his head and was carrying a black backpack.“We are now appealing to the public for any information on the whereabouts of Mr Leona.“We advise he is not be approached and anyone who sees this man is urged to contact Police immediately via 111.”She says the investigation is still in the early stages and Police are working to understand why the victim was the target for this attack.“We know the community will be understandably alarmed by what has occurred, and we are doing everything we can to locate this person and hold them to account.”An increased Police presence will remain in the Onehunga and Mount Wellington areas today while further enquiries are carried out.A post-mortem examination and formal identification of the victim will be carried out over the coming days.Anyone with information regarding Mr Leona’s whereabouts is urged to contact Police on 111.Information can also be provided to Police by making an online report at 105.police.govt.nz using “Update Report” or by calling 105.Please reference the file number 241023/8926.

Tyler King’s Journey to the Grand Prix: October 2024 Update
Tyler King’s Journey to the Grand Prix: October 2024 Update

21 October 2024, 11:11 PM

Local Waiwera lad Tyler King’s journey toward becoming a world-class motorbike racer has been a testament to resilience, passion, and perseverance. The last few months have seen him battle through both emotional and financial challenges, all while continuing to show his dedication to the sport he loves.You can find our previous articles on Tyler's journey below:Tyler King's road to Grand Prix - Update June 24Tyler King's road to Grandprix - Update Jan 23Tyler King’s journey to Grand Prix - Update May 22LOCAL BOY - Tyler King’s need for speed – his journey to Grand PrixEarlier this year, Tyler faced a major setback with the unexpected passing of his team owner and mentor, John Cresswell. John's death not only left a personal void but also complicated Tyler’s racing career. The money Tyler and his family had invested in the UK racing season was locked up in probate, leaving him without a team when he returned to the UK to continue racing. Despite the blow, Tyler pushed forward, determined to make the most of his situation.Upon arriving in the UK, Tyler found himself without a ride. The bikes had been locked away due to the issues surrounding the team’s finances. With no funds and no team, Tyler’s UK racing dream seemed shattered. However, the British Superbike organizers, recognizing his dedication and the distance he had travelled, arranged a rental bike for Tyler to compete in the Snetterton round. The bike, unfortunately, was outdated, slow, and fitted with old tires, but Tyler refused to back down.Despite crashing in qualifying, Tyler repaired the bike himself with the help of Tony Dalby, an English businessman who saw Tyler’s struggles and jumped in to assist. Tony bought Tyler a new subframe and wet tires, which allowed him to race again. Tyler showed his grit, moving up the ranks from last place to P13 in wet conditions, earning him a P15 start for the second race. Unfortunately, mechanical failure struck again when his bike's chain broke early in the race, cutting short his momentum.This would be Tyler’s last race in the UK for the season. British Superbike officials allowed him to race without a guardian just once as a goodwill gesture, as Tyler was under 18 years of age. The financial and logistical challenges proved insurmountable, and the dream of completing the full UK season ended after just three rounds, leaving the family in a financial hole for only three weekends of racing.Despite this setback, Tyler has returned to New Zealand more determined than ever. He and his family have shifted their focus back home, preparing for a significant campaign to gain financial stability while maximizing Tyler's seat time on the track. In the last three years, they have invested in multiple bikes, and Tyler is now competing in as many classes as possible to build experience and improve his results.Tyler’s commitment to racing has already shown results. Since returning from the UK, he’s been training six days a week, maintaining a strict diet, and working hard on his fitness. Standing nearly six feet tall and weighing just 65kg, Tyler is in peak condition. His hard work has paid off with impressive wins in New Zealand, including taking the overall title in the NZ Mini GP 190 open class, Ninja Cup, and F3 (650cc) at the Auckland Motorcycle Club (AMCC).Tyler’s strong performances have also caught the attention of sponsors. He has been chosen as the New Zealand ambassador for Delerio and secured new sponsorships from Metzler Tyres, Atlas Building Removals, and M&M Adventures. Teaming up with ex superbike champion Sloan Frost and Gavin Veltmeyer (ex 300 Supersport and Hyosung cup champion), Tyler is part of a new racing team, FK Racing (Frost & King Racing), aiming to dominate the national scene.The FK Racing team includes not only Tyler but also Nixon Frost, riding in the 150 Supersport and 300 Supersport classes, and Tyler’s godfather, Glen Horne, competing in Superbike and F1. Even Tyler’s stepmother, Vicky King, is competing in the Carl Cox Ninja Cup and the Carl Cox Women’s Championship, where she is currently sitting in third place after two rounds.With upcoming races at the Clay Classic Flat Track event in Waihi and AMCC Round 3 at Hampton Downs, Tyler’s season is shaping up to be a huge success. He’s focused on getting the most out of his racing career and is determined to make a name for himself on the world stage. Tyler’s journey, marked by challenges and triumphs, serves as an inspiring example of perseverance and passion in the face of adversity.Stay tuned for more updates as Tyler King continues his quest toward the Grand Prix, armed with grit, determination, and the support of a growing team and fanbase.Tyler’s team are always on the lookout for sponsorship to help with the many costs associated with racing. If you would like to sponsor Tyler please contact his team on his social media accounts.To follow Tylerhttps://www.facebook.com/TylerKing128https://www.instagram.com/mxtyler128/

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