Sam Sherwood, National Crime Correspondent & Kim Baker Wilson, Senior JournalistOranga Tamariki is looking into the care of a two-year-old found alive inside a suitcase in a bus luggage compartment.The toddler was found early Sunday afternoon by a driver of an InterCity bus from Whangārei to Auckland.A 27 year old woman has appeared in North Shore District Court charged with ill-treating a child.The child had been in the suitcase for nearly an hour wearing only a nappy, RNZ understands.Police were called at 12.50pm after a passenger asked for access to the luggage compartment during a planned stop in Kaiwaka, Northland.Do you know more? Email [email protected] Inspector Simon Harrison said the driver became concerned when he noticed the bag moving."When the driver opened the suitcase, they discovered the two-year-old girl," he said.Harrison said the little girl was reported to be "very hot", but otherwise unharmed.She was taken to hospital in a "minor" condition for an extensive medical assessment."We would like to acknowledge and commend the bus driver, who noticed something wasn't right and took immediate action, preventing what could have been a far worse outcome," Harrison said.The bus had stopped at this Kaiwaka carpark leading to the Tulip Cafe, Motel. Photo: Kim Baker Wilson / RNZ"Police inquiries into this incident are ongoing and further charges cannot be ruled out. Oranga Tamariki has also been notified."An InterCity spokesperson said the company was aware of an incident involving a passenger on one of its services earlier on Sunday."Police were called to respond, and they are now investigating the matter."No one was harmed during the incident and the service has resumed. As this is now an active police investigation, we are unable to comment further."Locals in Kaiwaka said they were shocked and saddened to hear what happened to the toddler.Kristel Faber who worked in the Kaiwaka Cheese Shop said the incident was "bizarre"."Just the thought of someone having that idea, putting a toddler in a suitcase... How can people think about doing that..."Another local woman who wished to remain anonymous said the situation was very sad."I was deeply saddened to hear such a thing, I mean who does that, puts their child in a suitcase and the suitcase is locked away with the other luggage?"She said knowing the toddler was alive and physically unharmed was a relief."I can't fathom how the bag was put in the bottom of the bus and not identified that there was movement in there at the time. I'm unsure about that, how did it get that far anyway?"Oranga Tamariki said it was working with the child's family to ensure they were safe.This story was originally published by RNZ

At Matakana Coast App, we’re rooted in the communities from Puhoi to Kaiwaka across to Mangawhai and down. As I reported a few weeks ago, the Dome a familiar drive is going to change radically. And while the forest may seem like a silent, slow-moving part of the landscape, its changes affect us all. From biodiversity to economics, visual beauty to road safety, forest decisions ripple through our lives.Since reporting on the Dome Forest I have been taking notice of how pleasant the drive is and appreciating the view as I drive through. The trees may fall quickly. But the story of the forest is not over. I have been thinking about the forest and wondering who owns and manages the Dome forest? Here is what I have found out.From Carter Holt to Corporate ForestryIn 2005, the land and forests you see in the Dome Valley were sold by Carter Holt Harvey, a long-standing Kiwi timber company, to an international consortium led by Rayonier Inc, a U.S.-based forestry corporation. That purchase, totalling over 94,000 hectares nationwide, marked the creation of Matariki Forests, which is now the third-largest forestry company in Aotearoa.Rayonier owns 77% of the venture, while Stafford Capital Partners, a UK investment group, control the remaining 23%. Day-to-day management falls to Rayonier New Zealand, who oversee operations in forest blocks across Northland, including right here in Wellsford’s backyard.The trees currently being harvested were likely planted between 1997 and 2000. Radiata pine typically matures around 28 to 30 years, and these stands are right on schedule. The felling was always part of the plan, though the construction of the new Ara Tūhono - Pūhoi to Wellsford motorway may have nudged the schedule for some blocks.Who Profits from the Pines?The harvest of Matariki Forest in Dome Valley is more than a local logging story. It’s a window into the complex machinery of international forestry investment, long-term land use planning, and what that all means for us the communities who live, work, and travel through these places every day.Once the radiata is harvested, the logs begin a journey that often ends far from where they started. Many head to ports like Marsden Point and Tauranga, bound for markets in China, South Korea, and Japan. And the profits? They flow back to shareholders overseas.While forestry companies pay local contractors, invest in road maintenance, and occasionally contribute to community funds, the lion’s share of revenue goes offshore. Rayonier Inc, listed on the New York Stock Exchange, distributes dividends globally. Stafford Capital manages forestry assets as part of international investment portfolios.It’s global capital, at work in our hills.Rayonier has confirmed that this area will be replanted in pine, continuing the 30-year cycle of planting, growth, and harvest. The land remains zoned for commercial forestry.That means we’ll likely see a new generation of trees begin to rise within the next 1-2 years. But the forest will never return exactly as it was. Each harvest brings with it new roads, erosion risks, biodiversity loss, and changes to water catchments. Replanting isn’t replacement.Some community voices have called for a future of more diverse planting native regeneration, mixed forestry, or at least ecological corridors within pine plantations. These ideas are gaining traction nationwide, but they rely on landowners being willing to forgo short-term profits for long-term benefit.In the case of Matariki Forests, that decision lies with overseas shareholders.

When Cath first offered Turbo Tonic to Leigh locals in lockdown, she swore she'd never make more than 100 bottles a week, never expand beyond the Matakana market and the “honesty fridge” that still sits at the front of her house, and certainly never take on a commercial lease or a "grown-up" bottling plant.Fast forward a few years and Cath has found herself in Never Never Land.Turbo Tonic started during COVID as a way to share the immunity-boosting and anti-inflammatory properties of turmeric with her community (as well as a drink that’s phenomenal when you’re feeling sick and helps soothe a sore throat). At the time, she was using a home fruit juicer to juice fresh turmeric and ginger root each week.The Turbo Tonic increased simply because people found it helped, and so word spread. She began selling it at the Matakana Farmers Market. One juicer became three, then six, then eleven, all operating at once in the small commercial kitchen in the basement of her house. Working full-time as a food tech teacher, she’d been hesitant to take that step, but the Matakana Markets were familiar ground—she’d previously run a couple of stalls there selling crêpes and Mexican food some years prior.The Turbo Tonic market stall only brought more attention to the product. Soon, stores were asking to stock it, and Cath had to make her first really big call: investing in an imported commercial juicer. Reluctantly, she decided it had to be done (turmeric has a habit of completely destroying home juicers) and bit the bullet—shipping one over from China and figuring out how to make it work, resigning from her teaching job and taking the plunge.From there, expansion happened quickly: employees, lime juice by the pallet, a walk-in chiller—all added to her property in Leigh.Then, a few months ago, and despite her best "Tetris-like" efforts to make everything fit, Cath was forced to acknowledge that there simply wasn’t enough space left on the property to meet the growing demand. Her driveway, now jam-packed with pallets, could no longer fit a car, and it didn’t feel right to subject her neighbours to what had effectively become an industrial operation.Incredibly, the Daily Organics bottling plant became available just at the right time, and Cath was encouraged to take another giant leap of faith and move her and her team into the fabulous facility that Delwyn and Brad had built over the previous eight years. And so now TT has a home of its own and plenty of room to grow.The fact that Turbo Tonic has come this far—despite its founder’s insistence that she’d never, ever sell more than a few bottles a week, and certainly never manufacture outside her home—is not due to big flashy marketing campaigns, but simply due to the fact that people have found "TT works" and have welcomed it into their daily wellness routines and recommended TT to friends and family.Cath is at pains to insist that she would not have arrived at where she is so happy to be, a place she'd never intended to get to, without the support of her incredible team, mentors, and this very special community.

NEMA has lifted the national advisory for the North and South Islands, however, it says a beach and marine threat remains in place for the Chatham Islands.It says strong and unusual currents will continue for the next 20 to 48 hours.Authorities have been reviewing the tsunami threat created by the huge earthquake off Russia two days ago.Beach and marine tsunami conditions were observed across the east coast of New Zealand last night, but they have now subsided to strong and unusual currents.There will be another update on the Chathams around 2pm.This story was originally published by RNZ

AN ANNOUNCEMENT FROM NORTHERN BASS...After 13 unforgettable years of delivering one of Aotearoa's most loved New Year's festivals, Northern Bass is shifting gears.This summer, Northern Bass will press pause on the traditional three-day, three-stage format and reimagine what the event looks like for 2025/26.The festival will return as NORTHERN BASS JNGL25, a tighter, more focused two-day experience (30th & 31st), centred around the iconic Jungle Stage and with more stage and entertainment details to come.This evolution allows the team to double down on what makes Northern Bass truly special: the energy, the vibe, the music, the production values, and the deep connection with its community."Last summer was a high point," says Festival Director Gareth Popham. "But behind the scenes, the squeeze was real. Attendance didn't quite hit the mark, and with the continued rise in production costs, it became clear that something had to change."NB JNGL25 is not a step back - it's a pivot. Festivals worldwide are facing similar pressures: economic uncertainty, audience expectations, and the increasing cost of hosting large-scale events. For Northern Bass, this is an opportunity to adapt without compromise, protecting what matters most and shaping the future experience.Northern Bass remains committed to returning to its full three-day format when the time is right. For now, the focus is on delivering the same unforgettable energy in a refined and intimate setting.With a tighter format, limited to just 6,000 tickets, NB JNGL25 will double down on the energy, music, and vibe that make it truly special.KEY INFORMATION, LINEUP + BUSES All tickets have now switched to the new NB JNGL25 model: more affordable 2-day and 1-day passes. If you already have a ticket - you’ll receive an email today with more information on credits, transfers and refunds.LINEUP drops Thursday, August 14 at 5.30pm - this one’s next level BUS TICKETS for NB JNGL25 are available now ->> https://tinyurl.com/2sbjd7uaDon’t wait to get your tickets - capacity is limited so once tickets are gone, they’re gone…Want more info on the changes? Visit our website ->> northernbass.co.nz/press-release

Emergency authorities say a tsunami threat to New Zealand from the giant quake off Russia's Kamchatka peninsula is likely to remain in force until at least midday.NEMA in its latest update a short time ago says tsunami activity has already reached parts of New Zealand.The first currents and surges are unlikely to be the largest and are expected to continue over many hours.It says the threat must be regarded as real until the tsunami alert is cancelled.https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/568466/live-warnings-in-place-as-tsunami-currents-reach-new-zealand-shores

Wednesday 30 Jul - last updated 12:57 pmWe expect New Zealand coastal areas to experience strong and unusual currents and unpredictable surges at the shore following a magnitude 8.7 earthquake near OFF THE EAST COAST OF KAMCHATKA RUSSIA at 2025-07-30 11:25 AM.Strong currents and surges can injure and drown people. There is a danger to swimmers, surfers, people fishing, and anyone in or near the water close to shore.People in or near the sea in the following areas should move out of the water, off beaches and shore areas and away from harbours, marinas, rivers and estuaries.AREAS UNDER THREAT:The West Coast of the North Island from CAPE REINGA to RAGLAN including the West Coast of Auckland and Manukau Harbour, and from HAWERA to WHANGANUI,The East and South Coasts of the North Island from CAPE REINGA to MAKARA including Whangarei, GREAT BARRIER ISLAND, the East Coast of Auckland, Waiheke Island, Waitemata Harbour, Tauranga, Whakatane, Opotiki, Gisborne, Napier, Lake Ferry, the Wellington South Coast and Wellington Harbour,The West Coast of the South Island from FAREWELL SPIT to MILFORD SOUND including Westport, Greymouth and Hokitika,The top of the South Island from FAREWELL SPIT to PORT UNDERWOOD including Nelson, Picton and the Marlborough Sounds,The East and South Coasts of the South Island from the CLARENCE RIVER to PUYSEGUR POINT including Kaikoura, Christchurch, Banks Peninsula, Timaru, Oamaru, Dunedin, the Otago Peninsula and Invercargill,STEWART ISLAND, and the CHATHAM ISLANDS.ADVICE FOR PEOPLE IN AREAS UNDER THREAT: STAY OFF THE BEACHES AND SHORE AREASPeople on boats, live-aboards and at marinas should leave their boats/vessels and move onto shore. Do not return to boats unless instructed by officials.There is no need to evacuate other areas unless directly advised by local civil defence authorities. Coastal inundation (flooding of land areas near the shore) is not expected as a result of this event. We are advising people to:Move out of the water, off beaches and shore areas and away from harbours, marinas, rivers and estuaries.Do not go to the coast to watch the unusual wave activity as there may be dangerous and unpredictable surges.Listen to local civil defence authorities and follow any instructions.Share this information with family, neighbours and friends.Strong and unusual currents and unpredictable surges will continue for several hours and the threat must be regarded as real until this Advisory is cancelled.This National Advisory has been issued following an assessment of information available. The situation may change as new information becomes available. Listen to the radio or TV for updates, or check www.civildefence.govt.nz

Two Worlds, One Vision: The Story of Leigh Courtenay’s Creative EnterprisesFrom Persian rugs to vintage rarities how one woman’s passion bridges the ancient and the eclectic. Nestled in the heart of the Matakana region, two uniquely characterful businesses Marcelline Rug Gallery and Matakana Old School share a common thread: the creative eye and entrepreneurial spirit of Leigh Courtenay.A seasoned businesswoman with a deep appreciation for quality, design, and heritage, Leigh has cultivated retail spaces that both inspire and delight. Though each business is distinct in offering, together they reflect her unwavering commitment to the beautiful, the storied, and the timeless.Marcelline Rug GalleryAt Marcelline Rug Gallery, the floor beneath your feet is anything but ordinary. Specialising in hand-knotted Persian and Oriental rugs, the gallery is a curated collection of heirloom textiles sourced from across the globe Iran, Turkey, Afghanistan, India, and more. Each piece is a masterwork of craftsmanship, saturated in tradition and designed to last for generations.Leigh’s passion for rugs began with travel and quickly became a calling. “Every rug tells a story of the hands that made it, the region it comes from, and the life it’s lived,” she says.From vibrant Persian design to soft, woollen neutrals. Leigh selects each rug for its unique character and integrity, offering her customers not just décor, but pieces of living history.Housed at the same address just a stones through from Matakana Village and within a beautifully preserved 120-year-old schoolhouse, is Matakana Old School Inc  Leigh’s second creative venture and a destination in its own right.Far from your average shop, this is a true retail experience, offering an ever-changing selection of vintage and industrial homewares, furniture, lighting, art, and all manner of delightful curiosities. Each piece sourced from both New Zealand and abroad is hand-picked for its individuality and charm, and no two visits are ever the same.From weathered factory stools to repurposed signage, retro lighting, quirky collectibles, and rustic tables, the inventory is refreshingly eclectic and undeniably authentic.“There’s a bit of old-school New Zealand in everything,” says Leigh. “It’s character-filled, it’s nostalgic, and a little bit cheeky.”Stock moves quickly, as many items are one-of-a-kind or limited in number. For treasure hunters, vintage lovers, or those seeking something just a little bit different, Matakana Old School is a place to wander, linger, and be surprised.One Soul, Two ExpressionsThough Marcelline Rug Gallery and Matakana Old School Inc. each offer a distinct experience, they are united by the spirit and sensibility of their owner. Leigh Courtenay brings an artist’s eye, a collector’s heart, and a businesswoman’s intuition to both endeavours, ensuring that each space she touches is filled with soul, quality, and personality.Whether you’re searching for a handcrafted Persian rug or a perfectly imperfect piece of vintage furniture, you’ll find more than just a product. You’ll find a story, a sense of connection and a little bit of Leigh’s passion in every corner.Both offerings are located at 745 Matakana Road, Matakana.Open Thursday to Sunday 9.30 to 4.30pm

Project update - July 2025Tēnā koe and welcome to the Northland Corridor newsletter.We’ve had a great response to our community information drop-in sessions and have met with over 600 people across 5 events in Kaiwaka, Waipū, Ruakākā and Whangārei to share progress on the Northland Corridor project. Thank you to everyone who came along to talk to us.Work on the project continues at pace. The procurement process for Ara Tūhono – Warkworth to Te Hana as a Public Private Partnership (PPP) is well underway. We answer some frequently asked questions about the PPP model below.We are now preparing to begin a range of geotechnical and environmental investigations from Te Hana to Port Marsden Highway and from Port Marsden Highway to Whangārei. These investigations are very important to help us work out where the best place for the new road will be and help us support the design and consenting of the project. Read on to learn more about the types of work we need to carry out.We know there is a lot of interest in our next steps. Once the preferred route from Te Hana to Whangārei has been to the NZTA board in August/September, we’ll be able to share more information.Great community turn out at drop-in sessionsThe drop-in sessions were well attended, showing the high level of interest in the project across Northland. Overall, people were pleased to hear more about the progress we have been making and there is continued support for the project with many people telling us to ‘get it done’.The sessions provided an opportunity for communities to learn about the project’s progress so far and understand more about next steps.This was also an opportunity for landowners in the emerging preferred corridor to meet the team, confirm next steps and timeframes for more detailed property discussions, and register additional contact details with us.What if I couldn’t make the information sessions?We know everyone is busy, so if you couldn’t make it to one of the events and you’d like to talk to us, feel free to contact us on [email protected] for landownersI’m a landowner in the emerging preferred corridor how do I register my details?So that we can contact landowners as quickly and efficiently as possible we want to make sure we have all the contact details of landowners who may be potentially affected.If you have received a letter from us advising that your property is in the study area, please register your contact details. Instructions about how to register your contact details are provided in the letter.It is quick and easy to register via the online form and only takes about one minute.If you have any questions about registering or can’t access the online form, please contact us by emailing [email protected] or phoning us on 0800 927 293.When will I know more information?Once the preferred route has been to the NZTA Board we will be able to share more information. We will liaise closely with landowners throughout to discuss the next steps.The timeline below shows next steps for Te Hana to Port Marsden Highway and Port Marsden Highway to Whangārei over the coming months. Click here to view a larger version of the project timeline.Upcoming Environmental and Geotechnical InvestigationsWe are starting to work with landowners along the corridor in the Te Hana to Port Marsden Highway and Port Marsden Highway to Whangārei sections to request permission to carry out important site investigations. Subject to NZTA board endorsement and landowners’ permission, we plan to get the investigations underway from August 2025.Our upcoming geotechnical investigations will assess subsurface ground conditions, including soil and rock types, groundwater conditions, and soil and rock strength, with samples taken for testing. Once the investigations are complete, we may continue to monitor the sites to understand the seasonal changes in groundwater levels and water quality.We’ll also carry out a variety of different environmental investigations to help us understand the local conditions and identify the various habitats and species that exist in the study area. This helps us to plan for any potential impacts and how we might mitigate them.Examples of environmental investigations we may need to undertake on private property include:Archaeology – identifying and managing any cultural heritage sites.Soil testing – ensuring land is suitable to use.Ecology – studying habitats of different species including kiwi, bats, lizards, bugs, fish and plants, also streams, to see how construction may impact nearby water.Land use and farming – identifying and confirming local land use and farming activities.Landscape, visual and natural character – investigations into how a new highway could impact the landscape and character of the area.Noise and vibration monitoring – measuring existing baseline noise so future noise impacts from the highway can be assessed and mitigated.Frequently asked questions - PPPWhat is a PPP?A PPP or public private partnership is a long-term contract for the delivery of a service which requires the construction of a new asset, in this case a road, and the maintenance and operation of this asset. The construction of the asset is financed from private sources, NZTA will only make payments once the asset is ready. Full legal ownership of the asset is at all times retained by the Crown.Why use a PPP model?The PPP model will improve the delivery of service outcomes from major public infrastructure assets by:Improving asset and service design by encouraging innovation and best practice from the private sectorIncentivising whole of life design and asset managementPayment for performanceAllocating risks to the parties who are best able to manage themWhen will you select a construction partner to build Ara Tūhono - Warkworth to Te Hana?Procurement is underway. Following a rigorous evaluation and selection process through the Expressions of Interest (EOI) phase, three shortlisted consortia are in the next stage of procurement, the Request for Proposals (RFP). The PPP contract is expected to be finalised by the middle of next year.Meet the teamMike Forrest – Property Workstream LeadTell us about yourself and your role:I’m the Property Workstream Lead for the Northland Corridor project. I am an experienced property professional with significant expertise in Public Works Act land acquisition for large infrastructure projects, property advisory and consultancy. I was the property acquisition manager for the Northern Corridor Improvements, Ara-Tuhono - Pūhoi to Warkworth, and even an earlier phase of Warkworth to Te Hana.My role involves supporting the overall project development, landowner engagement, and managing the property acquisition programme. Our call for landowners to register their contact details is really important to support this engagement and acquisition process in a smooth way.What excites you about the Northland Corridor project:I have a passion for solving challenges, especially on large complex projects like the Northland Corridor. A significant part of my career has been centred around the former Rodney District, so improving the transport connections for this community resonates with me.The Northland Corridor is an opportunity to deliver a legacy project for New Zealand and fully unlock the economic potential of Northland.

Heavy Rain Warning - OrangePeriod: 18hrs from 4am - 10pm Tue, 29 JulArea: Auckland, including Great Barrier IslandForecast: Expect 90 to 130 mm of rain. Peaks rates of 15 to 25 mm/h, but 25 to 40 mm/h possible in localised downpours during Tuesday afternoon and evening. Low chance of upgrading to a Red Warning.Impact: Streams and rivers may rise rapidly. Surface flooding, slips, and difficult driving conditions possible.Action: Clear your drains and gutters to prepare for heavy rain. Avoid low-lying areas and drive cautiously.Strong Wind WatchPeriod: 20hrs from 10pm Mon, 28 Jul - 6pm Tue, 29 JulArea: Auckland, including Great Barrier IslandForecast: Northeast winds may approach severe gale force in exposed places. Moderate chance of upgrading to a Warning.

Peter de Graaf, Northland reporterNorthland's first human milk bank is expected to benefit hundreds of premature and unwell babies every year.Whangārei mum Ashlee Robinson was the first person to donate milk when the new service opened at the city's Te Kotuku maternity unit on Friday afternoon.She said her own baby spent a month in the hospital's neo-natal unit, so she knew how much the milk bank was needed."I saw my milk sitting there in excess, and all these other babies that could be benefiting from it but at the time couldn't - and now they can," she said."It makes me quite emotional because I would have accepted milk when my baby was in there and needed it... those babies are quite vulnerable, and I'd do anything to help them."The bank’s first donor, Whangārei mum Ashlee Robinson, watches as her milk is stored in the milk bank freezer until needed. Photo: RNZ / Peter de GraafNorthland director of midwifery Sue Bree likened breast milk to "liquid gold"."It is love turned into food. Of course, there are many, many nutritional benefits as well. Premature babies have specific needs in terms of immunity and the antibodies that are in breast milk," she said.Bree said women who wished to donate milk would be able to drop it off at a collection point in central Whangārei. It would then be pasteurised and frozen until needed.Bree compared the milk bank project to a pregnancy, albeit one with a more than two-year gestation period.It had been made possible by "incredible generosity" from the community, which had raised the almost $33,000 needed to buy the pasteuriser."It's a pragmatic manifestation of the saying, 'It takes a village to raise a child'," Bree said.A premature baby in Whangārei Hospital’s Te Kotuku neonatal unit. Photo: RNZ / Peter de GraafBree said Northland had high rates of breastfeeding but donated milk was needed for sick and pre-term babies."Sometimes they don't have access to breast milk, either because it's early days and the mother is unable to produce it, or there are other, long-term issues. So, we recognised this was going to be a really beneficial thing for our sick and vulnerable pēpi (babies)."Small, premature babies would be prioritised, but donated milk could also be given to babies in the maternity ward with low blood sugar levels.In the past, premature babies had mainly been given formula, made from cow's milk, which was essential but not ideal.She expected hundreds of babies a year would benefit.Midwife Louise Rowden said a mother's breast milk was the perfect food."But if the mother can't get her own breast milk, then the next best thing is another mother's breast milk," she said.Whangārei mum Ashlee Robinson, the first donor, cuts the ribbon to open Northland’s first human milk bank. Photo: RNZ / Peter de GraafLactation consultant Janine Parsons said breast milk also brought long-term health benefits, including reduced rates of diabetes, cardio-vascular problems, obesity and allergies in later life.She said pasteurisation eliminated bacteria and viruses but preserved "the vast majority" of antibodies and vitamins.Donors would also complete a health questionnaire and a blood test, to check for diseases that could be transmitted through breast milk.The milk would be tested after pasteurisation to ensure it was safe.Public fundraising for the pasteuriser was led by Whangārei Rotary Club South, with contributions from Hāpai Te Hauora, Whangārei Lions, Whangārei City Rotary, Northland Community Foundation.The late Kerikeri artist Valerie Hunton. Photo: RNZ / Peter de GraafMuch of the money came from an auction of artworks bequeathed by the late Kerikeri artist Valerie Hunton, who had a lifelong commitment to women's health across the Pacific.Whangārei's new milk bank was used within an hour of opening for a pre-term baby who had spent a week in the neonatal unit.Mum Emma, from Whangārei, said she wanted to give her baby breast milk from the beginning, but had to use formula instead.She said it was "really exciting" to be the first person in Northland to use the service."It's so good to have this option now. And baby's great. We've just got the go-ahead to go home," she said.He Piropiro Waiū Human Milk Bank is the fifth public milk bank in the motu, after Christchurch, Wellington, Nelson and Blenheim.There are also private milk banks in Christchurch and Palmerston North.Health New Zealand is working on a system to transport donated breast milk to other parts of Northland.This story was originally published by RNZ

Police are seeking information on the whereabouts of Tumataroa who is missing from Whangārei, in Northland.The 14-year-old was reported missing by his family who have concerns for his health as he requires medication.He was last seen on Wednesday.Anyone who may have seen Tumataroa or know his present whereabouts please call 111 and quote file number 250725/1371.

Mangawhai locals will be relieved to hear that long-awaited remediation work is set to begin on a damaged section of Mangawhai Road.The affected area, near the intersection of Tomarata and Coal Hill Roads, sustained significant damage during Cyclone Gabrielle in February 2023. A temporary road diversion was put in place to maintain access, but a power pole was left in the middle of the diversion, creating a major safety hazard for motorists. Numerous near misses have been reported, particularly involving drivers unfamiliar with the area.Kaipara District Council has confirmed that the power pole will finally be removed on Tuesday 29 July, with work scheduled between 7am and 5pm.Stop/go traffic management will be in place during the works. Drivers are urged to follow crew instructions and take extra care when passing through the work site.

Starlink, the satellite internet service provided by SpaceX, is currently experiencing a major global outage, with thousands of users reporting loss of connectivity across multiple countries.The outage was first reported around 3 p.m. ET on July 24, 2025, and has affected regions including the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, India, New Zealand, and other parts of the world. SpaceX has confirmed the issue and stated that they are actively working to resolve it.Global Outage: Users in various countries, including Canada, the US, UK, India, and New Zealand, have reported widespread disruptions in Starlink service. In Aotearoa New Zealand, the outage has impacted numerous households and businesses — including this writer, who had to relocate to a friend’s home to work due to the loss of internet!!Company Response: SpaceX confirmed the outage on its website, stating, “Starlink is currently experiencing a service outage. Our team is investigating,” and later added that they are “actively implementing a solution.”User Impact: Reports from users indicate that the outage has affected both residential and commercial users, with some experiencing total blackouts and others facing intermittent connectivity issues.Elon Musk’s Statement: Elon Musk, CEO of SpaceX, responded to the outage on social media, stating, “Service will be restored shortly. Sorry for the outage. SpaceX will remedy root cause to ensure it doesn’t happen again.”

Peter de Graaf, Northland reporterA Northland lines company says substation break-ins are endangering lives and causing power cuts affecting thousands of people.Top Energy chief executive Russell Shaw said he was shocked by what he described as the offenders' "astonishing recklessness" and "absolute stupidity".In the most recent break-in, thieves took essential equipment from a substation and forced a power shutdown that left 4500 Far North homes in the dark.Shaw said the thieves also sabotaged a high-voltage earth connection, putting themselves - and any staff working at the substation afterwards - at serious risk of electrocution.In another break-in, thieves damaged generators and made them unusable just before Cyclone Tam storm hit.Shaw said backup generators were vital for keeping the power on while storm damage was repaired.He said interfering with electrical equipment could trigger widespread outages, affecting homes, businesses and essential services.His message for would-be thieves was simple: "Don't do it. You're jeopardising your life and those of others. It's not worth it."Shaw said the company was beefing up security at its substations across the Far North.He said they were high-voltage facilities that could cause serious injury or death to anyone who entered without proper training and protective gear.Networks general manager Claire Picking said Top Energy facilities had been broken into 18 times, including eight substations, so far this year.The items taken were of relatively low value, while the risk to the thieves, staff and the public was "very high".The removal of a substation earth connector was particularly dangerous, she said.Shaw urged anyone who saw suspicious activity near Top Energy substations or other electricity infrastructure to call the police immediately, or the company on 0800 867 363.Under the Crimes Act, the maximum penalty for sabotage of essential infrastructure is 10 years' imprisonment.Top Energy would not say which substations had been targeted for fear of causing deadly copycat break-ins.This story was originally published by RNZ

A Tapestry of Colour, Creativity & LegacyYesterday, the Morris & James team announced that after producing for another few months to complete current stock, they will begin dismantling the pottery operations. General Manager Kieran Rice cited economic pressures, Ant’s retirement, Covid struggles and the challenge of finding new custodians as key reasons.Founded in 1977 by ceramicist Anthony “Ant” Morris and architect Sue James, Morris & James grew from raw clay terraces by the Matakana River into a celebrated factory, showroom, and local cultural landmark. Over nearly fifty years, the studio produced bold, colour-rich ceramics—from monumental garden pots to tiles and kitchenware—built through a meticulous process: extracting clay, extruding, wheel-throwing, spray‑glazing, and kiln‑firing.Photo courtesy of Morris & James website.Their creations, often decorated in signature tones of Pacific blue, rich reds, earthy manganese, and experimental styles, became synonymous with New Zealand craftsmanship. An estimated NZ$40 million in stock has been sold nationwide, gracing private homes, public spaces like the Auckland Ferry Building, Government House Wellington, and restaurants such as Prego.Photo courtesy of Morris & James website.A Founder’s Journey: From Farmland to ClayAnt Morris's life is an epic tale: starting work on a Hawke’s Bay sheep station, he studied agriculture at Lincoln, then embarked on a global odyssey driving bulldozers, teaching in Saigon, and working across Europe, North America, Africa, and more. In Britain, he discovered pottery under Robyn Welch in Suffolk, sparking a passion that led him back to NZ in 1977 to establish the pottery with Sue James on a scrub‑covered, clay‑rich Matakana site.Drawing inspiration from the Arts & Crafts movement and traditional techniques, Ant built a collaborative, artisan‑driven operation focused on functional, beautifully crafted pieces rather than fine art. Along the way, the pottery endured fires, financial struggles, a tragic accident, and Ant's debilitating stroke in 2004. Photo courtesy of Morris & James website.Passing on the businessIn 2008, Ant appointed Kieran Rice as GM; by 2009, he sold the business to Kieran, Deby, and long-standing team members. In April 2025, he held a landmark studio sale, offering early works, experimental pieces, and international clay finds—from Suffolk to Spain, Thailand and beyond—supporting local charities in the process.Closing Chapter: End of an EraVisitors are invited to tour the factory, grab a final piece of NZ pottery history, and use any outstanding vouchers. The team will maintain visibility through stories, launches, and updates on their Facebook page through to the final curtain. If you cherish vibrant New Zealand design, this is your moment to experience Morris & James while they’re still shaping clay at Matakana’s iconic site. You can visit Morris & James at 48 Tongue Farm Rd, Matakana, AucklandPhone: 09 422 7116OPEN 7-DAYS 9am to 5pmhttps://www.morrisandjames.co.nz/

John Michael "Ozzy" Osbourne, the lead singer of British heavy metal band Black Sabbath, has died at 76, according to Sky News, citing a family statement.Just two weeks ago, Osbourne brought down the curtain on his stellar career with Black Sabbath on 6 July, rattling through the band's most iconic songs in front of an adoring hometown crowd in Birmingham, in England.The 'Prince of Darkness' held court from a giant leather throne, topped with a bat, at Villa Park stadium, firstly in a five-song solo set and then with his original bandmates for the first time in 20 years, and also last time.The stadium in Birmingham, central England, is a stone's throw from where the band formed 57 years ago, pioneering the hard-rock style that gave rise to heavy metal.Many thousands around the world followed the concert online after tickets for the show sold out in just 16 minutes.

Massive Dairy Flat surf park development expands to include housing and town centreThe Auckland Surf Park development at Dairy Flat has been granted fast-track approval to significantly expand its original scope, with plans now including around 500 homes, a town centre, and additional community amenities alongside the already consented surf lagoon, solar farm, and data centre.The development, located at 1350 Dairy Flat Highway north of Auckland, is being led by AW Holdings—a joint venture between global surf park developer Aventuur and local partners, including Sir John Kirwan and property investor Mark Francis.Concept of what the future park will look likePreviously consented features include a Wavegarden “Cove” lagoon, designed to produce consistent surf year-round, a Spark New Zealand data centre campus, and a 7-hectare solar farm. The latest expansion includes a range of residential housing types (apartments, terraces, duplexes and standalone homes), a surfing members’ clubhouse, eco-cabin accommodation, and a commercial town centre.The developers say sustainability will remain a key focus, with the site incorporating rainwater harvesting, composting, native planting and a ban on single-use plastics. Heat generated by the data centre is expected to be redirected to warm the surf lagoon, marking what the developers claim is a world-first energy initiative.In addition to housing and hospitality, the park is expected to create economic and recreational opportunities for the region. It is likely to attract tourism and generate local employment through construction, hospitality, retail, and recreation-related jobs. The surf lagoon will also offer a safer, controlled environment for people of all ages to try surfing—potentially helping to increase participation in the sport.Importantly, the facility is also expected to serve as a high-performance training ground for competitive surfers, including future Olympic-level athletes, by providing consistent wave conditions not possible in the natural environment.However, while the proposal includes many environmentally conscious features, the scale and pace of development raise questions about its broader impact. Dairy Flat is currently a rural community with lifestyle blocks and farmland. Some locals may be concerned that the scale of urbanisation could change the character of the area significantly, particularly with the introduction of higher-density housing and commercial infrastructure.Environmental advocates may also question the true sustainability of a surf lagoon that relies on artificial wave generation and substantial energy input, despite its renewable energy components. The construction phase could lead to increased traffic, noise, and disruption in the short term, and longer-term implications for local biodiversity and infrastructure are not yet fully known.A community day held earlier this year attracted over 600 attendees, including Auckland Mayor Wayne Brown and local MP Mark Mitchell. Mayor Brown described the project as a “unique proposition of significant scale.” The event also included a blessing of the site led by members of Ngāti Whātua and Ngāti Manuhiri, the mana whenua of the area.If final approvals are confirmed, construction of the expanded components is expected to begin in late 2025, with the surf park scheduled to open in 2027.