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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/

HAVE YOUR SAY: Shoreline Adaptation Plan for Pākiri, Leigh Ti point, Sandspit and Snells Beach
HAVE YOUR SAY: Shoreline Adaptation Plan for Pākiri, Leigh Ti point, Sandspit and Snells Beach

21 October 2024, 6:18 PM

Shoreline Adaptation Plans: Pākiri to Mathesons Bay, Ti Point to Sandspit and Snells Beach to Ōrewa Draft Adaptation StrategiesHelp us plan for the future of our shorelineWe are preparing shoreline adaptation plans (SAPs) across the region in partnership with mana whenua and local communities.SAPs consider how we can respond to coastal hazards and climate change over the next 100 years by:looking at how we can adapt council-owned land and assets like boat ramps, sea walls and coastal walkwayspromoting the preservation and restoration of the coastal environment for future generations.Updates on Pākiri to Mathesons Bay, Ti Point to Sandspit and Snells Beach to Ōrewa SAPsEarlier this year we asked local communities how they use and what they value about the coast and shorelines from:Pākiri to Mathesons BayTi Point to SandspitSnells Beach to Ōrewa.We have now drafted plans (coastal strategies) to manage the shorelines in these areas based on:coastal hazard informationadvice from our coastal management team.We want to know what you think about the coastal strategies we are proposing to apply to these areas.Coastal strategiesWe have four strategies to apply to each SAP area, and smaller areas within the SAP. These strategies guide decisions around how we manage council-owned land and assets in each SAP area.The four strategies are:limited intervention - we maintain the area and keep it safeno active intervention - we allow natural processes to continuehold the line - we secure council-owned assets and land by, for example, building sea walls and planting dunesadaptation priority area - we relocate council-owned assets and land uses away from hazard-prone areasRead the Draft Adaptation Strategy reports for Pākiri to Mathesons Bay, Ti Point to Sandspit and Snells Beach to Ōrewa to:find more information about the strategiesfind out which strategy we propose to apply to each area.Draft Adaptation Strategy Report for Pākiri to Mathesons Bay [PDF 6MB]Draft Adaptation Strategy Report for Ti Point to Sandspit [PDF 11MB]Draft Adaptation Strategy Report for Snells Beach to Ōrewa [PDF 10MB]Pākiri to Mathesons Bay shorelineThe shoreline from Pākiri to Mathesons Bay extends from the eastern coastline of the Hauraki Gulf starting at Te Arai and continues south along the coastline to Mathesons Bay.Map of Pākiri to Mathesons Bay Shoreline Adaptation Plan area.Ti Point to Sandspit shorelineThe shoreline from the south of Mathesons Bay, includes Ti Point and continues south along Ōmaha Bay, Whangateau Harbour and Kawau Bay to Sandspit and Brick Bay.Map of Ti Point to Sandspit Shoreline Adaptation Plan area.Snells Beach to Ōrewa shorelineThe shoreline from Snells Beach to Ōrewa Hibiscus Coast includes the area from Ōrewa in the south, north up to Warkworth and southeast to Mahurangi.Map of Snells Beach to Ōrewa Hibiscus Coast Shoreline Adaptation Plan area.What we want your feedback onWe want to know:what you think of our proposed draft coastal adaptation strategies for the shorelines from:Pākiri to Mathesons BayTi Point to SandspitSnells Beach to Ōrewaif there is anything else you think we should includeif you have any other feedback about how we manage our shorelines in these areas.How you can have your sayTo have your say you can fill in the online feedback forms:Pākiri to Mathesons Bay online feedback formTi Point to Sandspit online feedback formSnells Beach to Ōrewa online feedback formYou can also:drop a pin and leave a comment on our interactive map(External link)email: [email protected](External link) with your completed feedback formpost your completed form to:Shoreline Adaptation PlansFreepost number 232621Private Bag 92300Victoria Street WestAuckland 1142.When you can have your sayYou can have your say from Tuesday 15 October to Tuesday 12 November 2024.What happens nextThe SAP project team will review all feedback received and complete the SAP proposal for each area.The final report will then go to the Rodney and Hibiscus and Bays local boards for endorsement and then the Policy and Planning Committee for approval.This will happen between late 2024 and early 2025.Find out more about the Shoreline Adaptation ProgrammeRead about the Shoreline Adaptation Programme.

An hour of terror - What happened during the Abbey Caves tragedy
An hour of terror - What happened during the Abbey Caves tragedy

19 October 2024, 7:52 PM

Peter de GraafThe summary of facts from WorkSafe reveals what happened in the caveThe water quickly rose, trapping studentsKarnin Petera, 15, died in the incidentSeveral trapped people acted heroically to help save the others, the report showsThe full terror of what happened in Whangārei's Abbey Caves - and the acts of heroism that almost certainly saved students' lives - has been revealed for the first time since the tragedy.On 9 May 2023, 17 outdoor education students from Whangarei Boys' High School and two adults entered the cave complex on what was supposed to be an enjoyable day out.A torrential downpour while they were in the cave, on top of unseasonably heavy rain in preceding weeks, caused water levels to rise rapidly and led to the death of 15-year-old Karnin Petera, known to friends and family as Tino.The school was last month ordered to pay more than $500,000 in reparations to Karnin's family and the other victims, after earlier pleading guilty to charges laid by WorkSafe.The summary of facts from WorkSafe's prosecution has only now been released, detailing the decision-making ahead of the trip - and what happened inside the cave that fateful morning.The summary stated the trip leaders had taken a successful trip through all three caves a day earlier.Expecting rain later in the day, around 3pm, they started earlier and decided to shorten the trip to Organ Cave only, which they had not previously known to flood.The summary said water inside the cave was at its normal knee to waist height when they entered around 9.30am.At a junction about 150m into the cave, they took the upper, dry passage, which led to a glow-worm chamber.A newly released summary of facts has for the first time revealed the terror - and heroism - of last year's Abbey Caves tragedy. Photo: RNZ / Tom TaylorThe boys spent some time there before returning to the junction about 20 minutes later.In the meantime, however, the water had risen markedly.The trip leader decided it was safer to try to walk out of the cave than wait out the flood in the upper passage, because it was not known how long the water would take to subside, and he had no way of communicating with the outside.The students got into the water but it was deeper and swifter than anticipated, and an emergency quickly developed.With the water mostly above their heads, the group floated down the cave to an area of exposed rock.By then it was impossible to get back to the upper passage.There they were instructed to link arms and get back into the flow. Many were dragged down by their gumboots or overalls or by other students.They were unable to stay linked up for long.Karnin Petera died in the incident. Photo: SUPPLIEDWhen they eventually reached the entrance they saw a large volume of water rushing around either side of a large rock.One of the adults recognised it as a "sieve", where the power of the water passing through a narrow gap created a powerful force that could suck people below the surface.Students who reached the left-hand side of the rock managed to get out relatively easily; those who were sucked to the right had a lot more difficulty."A number of students describe thinking they were going to drown and feeling panicked and scared. Some students describe having bruises and cuts from being slammed into rocks while being pulled by the force of the water," the summary stated.One student who was on the right-hand-side of the rock recalled seeing Karnin's foot become trapped between rocks as he was being sucked down.Many students said it was likely more boys would have drowned but for the efforts of one person who placed his body directly in front of the sieve.Another person was seen fully submerged for long periods while he pushed students out of the water above his head.Others helped boys out of the water.Names have been redacted from the summary of facts so the heroes' identities are unknown.The two boys first to exit the cave did not find a phone with the gear left at the entrance, so they ran to the nearest property for help. An arborist working there called 111 at 10.35am.Karnin was located around 7pm when the water had subsided enough for a rescue team to enter the cave. His body was recovered about 9pm.The summary goes on to examine in detail the weather conditions, both on the day and in preceding weeks, the planning and risk-assessment that went into the trip, and their shortcomings.The school, which pleaded guilty at the earliest opportunity, said it had since implemented new outdoor education policies and procedures.It had also commissioned a full review by Education Outdoors New Zealand, which had led to a new safety management plan for future trips.This story was originally published by RNZ

Discover the Historic and Vibrant Mangawhai Tavern (Sponsored Content)
Discover the Historic and Vibrant Mangawhai Tavern (Sponsored Content)

19 October 2024, 6:18 PM

Nestled in Mangawhai, Northland, the Mangawhai Tavern is more than just a venue—it is a living piece of history dating back to the 1860s. Originally built in 1859 to serve the kauri bushmen and port workers of the nearby Mangawhai port, the tavern became a cornerstone of the local community. Some histories state the tavern has stood since 1862 after the previous building was burned to the ground - in fact, it burnt down much later in March 1890, and was replaced by the current building designed by significant Auckland-based architect Charles Le Neve Arnold.The tavern is owned by a consortium led by Rick Smith, a Tomarata dairy farmer, his cousin Angela Ferrier, and their friends. Smith’s deep family ties to the tavern, managed by his relatives for over 30 years from the 1930s to the 1960s, inspired him to restore the venue to its former glory. Since acquiring it in 2015, Smith and his team have worked diligently to maintain the tavern’s rich historical charm while modernising it as a vibrant community hub. Their vision is to provide a welcoming space for locals and visitors alike, with its unique waterfront location and deep cultural significance making it an essential stop for anyone in the region.With its rich history, stunning location, and vibrant events, the Mangawhai Tavern is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the best of Mangawhai’s culture and entertainment scene. Whether you are catching a live gig, exploring the Saturday market, or simply enjoying a drink by the water, the Mangawhai Tavern offers an unforgettable experience.A Hub for Live Music, Markets, and MoreThe Mangawhai Tavern has long been a place where history meets entertainment. Over the years, it has hosted a variety of live music events, cementing its reputation as a key player in New Zealand’s live music scene. From intimate gigs featuring top acts to laid-back Sunday sessions, the tavern is the go-to spot for live performances.One of the tavern’s event calendar highlights is the Mangawhai Tavern Market, held every Saturday morning from 8:30 AM to 1:00 PM. Managed by the tavern’s team, this market offers a delightful selection of local products, including artisan breads, fresh flowers, handcrafted goods, and local produce. With live music in the garden bar and stunning views over the estuary and dunes, the market is a must-visit for anyone in the area.A fantastic gig to check out is White Chapel Jak preforming on 26th Of October. Find your tickets on eventfinda.co.nzOpening hours:Tuesday - Sunday from 11:30am Phone - (09) 431 4505For general enquires - [email protected] events or gigs - [email protected] account inquiries - [email protected] Moir Street, Mangawhai 0505, New Zealand

Auckland Overnight Motorway Closures 20-28 October
Auckland Overnight Motorway Closures 20-28 October

18 October 2024, 8:16 PM

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, 25 October 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 Warkworth Roundabout and Silverdale on-ramp, 21 OctoberPuhoi southbound on-ramp, 21 October Northbound lanes between Silverdale off-ramp and Warkworth Roundabout, 21 OctoberOrewa northbound on-ramp, 21 OctoberSilverdale northbound on-ramp, 21 OctoberSouthbound lanes between Constellation Drive off-ramp and Tristram Avenue on-ramp, 21-22 & 24 October (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)Constellation Drive southbound on-ramp, 21-22 & 24 OctoberNorthbound lanes between Onewa Road off-ramp and Northcote Road on-ramp, 20 October (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)Esmonde Road (Diamond) northbound on-ramp, 20 OctoberEsmonde Road (Loop) northbound on-ramp, 20 OctoberOnewa Road northbound on-ramp, 20 OctoberOnewa Road southbound on-ramp, 21-24 OctoberShelly Beach Road southbound off-ramp, 21-24 October CENTRAL MOTORWAY JUNCTION (CMJ)Eastbound lanes between Wellesley Street East (SH1) off-ramp and Alten Road, 20 October (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)Eastbound lanes between Wellesley Street East (SH16) off-ramp and Alten Road, 20 October (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)Grafton Road eastbound on-ramp, 20 October SOUTHERN MOTORWAY (SH1)Southbound lanes between Takanini off-ramp and Papakura on-ramp, 20-21 October (approx. 9:30pm to 5:30am)Takanini southbound on-ramp, 20-21 October (approx. 9:30pm to 5:30am)Southbound lanes between Takanini off-ramp and Drury/SH22 on-ramp, 22-24 October (approx. 9:30pm to 5:30am)Takanini southbound on-ramp, 22-24 October (approx. 9:30pm to 5:30am)Papakura (Diamond) southbound on-ramp, 22-24 October (approx. 9:30pm to 5:30am)Papakura (Loop) southbound on-ramp, 22-24 October (approx. 9:30pm to 5:30am)Northbound lanes between Ramarama off-ramp and Papakura on-ramp, 23-24 October (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)Drury/SH22 northbound on-ramp, 23-24 October (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)Ramarama northbound on-ramp, 23-24 October (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)Northbound lanes between Ramarama off-ramp and Drury/SH22 on-ramp, 20-22 OctoberRamarama northbound on-ramp, 20-22 OctoberBombay southbound off-ramp, 20-24 OctoberBombay northbound off-ramp, 20-24 OctoberNikau Road southbound off-ramp, 20-23 OctoberSouthbound lanes between Hampton Downs off-ramp and Te Kauwhata on-ramp, 20 OctoberHampton Downs southbound on-ramp, 20 OctoberNORTHWESTERN MOTORWAY (SH16)Southbound lanes between Foster Road and Trigg Road, 20 October (approx. 6:00pm to 6:00am)Northbound lanes between Trigg Road and Foster Road, 20 October (approx. 6:00pm to 6:00am)Newton Road westbound on-ramp, 20-23 OctoberNewton Road westbound on-ramp, 25-28 October (approx. 9:00pm to 9:00pm, 24hrs)Newton Road westbound on-ramp, 28 OctoberSOUTHWESTERN MOTORWAY (SH20)Northbound lanes between Hillsborough Road off-ramp and Maioro Street on-ramp, 22 October (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)Hillsborough Road northbound on-ramp, 22 OctoberDominion Road northbound on-ramp, 22 OctoberNorthbound lanes between Neilson Street off-ramp and Hillsborough Road on-ramp, 21 October (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)Neilson Street northbound on-ramp, 21 OctoberMahunga Drive southbound off-ramp, 20 OctoberNorthbound lanes between Massey Road off-ramp and Rimu Road on-ramp, 23 October (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)Coronation Road northbound on-ramp, 23 OctoberSH20 northbound to SH20A southbound link, 23 October (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)Massey Road northbound on-ramp, 23 OctoberNorthbound lanes between Cavendish Drive off-ramp and Massey Road on-ramp, 24 October (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)Puhinui Road northbound on-ramp, 24 OctoberCavendish Drive northbound on-ramp, 24 October GEORGE BOLT MEMORIAL DRIVE (SH20A)Northbound lanes between Kirkbride Road off-ramp and SH20 link, 23 October (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)SH20A northbound to SH20 northbound link, 23 October (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)Kirkbride Road northbound on-ramp, 23 October

Mangawhai’s Giant Skateboard BIG reveal!!
Mangawhai’s Giant Skateboard BIG reveal!!

18 October 2024, 2:49 AM

Opening Ceremony of Eke Tahi – Mangawhai’s Giant SkateboardThe opening ceremony for Eke Tahi will be held on Sunday, the 27th, at 10 a.m. This event is an opportunity to give thanks and acknowledge the hardworking helpers and supporters who have dedicated the last 18 months to bringing this incredible project to life.The giant skateboard, measuring an impressive 13 meters in length, 3 meters in width, and weighing nearly 2 tons, was originally created by Sport NZ in 2020. It was part of a nationwide campaign to raise awareness of skateboarding's debut in the Tokyo Olympics, marking the sport’s first appearance in Olympic history. After touring towns and cities across Aotearoa, the skateboard made a stop at MAZ (Mangawhai Activity Zone), where Sport NZ and the MAZ committee formed a strong connection. When the tour concluded and the skateboard was left in storage, Sport NZ offered it to MAZ for restoration. The committee eagerly accepted, seeing it as a fantastic opportunity to further cement Mangawhai’s place on the skateboarding map.Restoring the massive structure over the past 18 months has been a labor of love, involving many talented and dedicated individuals. Mangawhai Engineering & Marine, RS Engineering, Richard from Wiley Geotechnical, and Engtech all contributed their expertise. Simon Bennett, from the MAZ committee, took on the role of project manager to oversee the restoration. The skateboard is built with a steel frame, encased in a fiberglass skin that’s about 200-250mm thick.A key feature of the restoration is the striking artwork on its underside, which reveals its new name, *Eke Tahi*, meaning "ride as one" in Māori. It also pays tribute to the Tokyo Olympics with a depiction of Mt. Fuji.With its impressive size and unique design, *Eke Tahi* is set to become the largest skateboard in the world, putting Mangawhai on the map not only in New Zealand but globally as an iconic skateboarding town. This giant skateboard is sure to attract attention from enthusiasts and tourists alike, cementing Mangawhai’s reputation as a must-visit destination for skateboarding fans.

Proposed Fast-Track Bill for Sand Mining in Bream Bay Stirs Debate in Whangārei
Proposed Fast-Track Bill for Sand Mining in Bream Bay Stirs Debate in Whangārei

15 October 2024, 6:31 PM

A proposed fast-track bill for sand mining at Bream Bay in Whangārei has sparked debate among local communities, environmental advocates, and business leaders. The bill seeks to expedite approval for sand extraction, raising concerns about environmental sustainability, cultural heritage, and the impact on local ecosystems.BackgroundBream Bay, known for its pristine beaches and significant Māori cultural sites, has drawn attention from industries due to its large sand deposits. The government’s fast-track proposal, under the Resource Management Act (RMA), aims to meet increasing demand for sand driven by infrastructure projects.McCallum Bros, a sand mining company, is pushing to expand mining in Bream Bay, including Ruakākā, Langs Beach, and Waipu Cove—home to endangered species like the NZ fairy tern. After Auckland Council denied their permit for Mangawhai/Pakiri, they turned to the Fast-Track Consenting Bill and are seeking to mine Bream Bay for an additional 35 years.Urgency and Public ResponseThe Environment Select Committee will report to Parliament in October, and urgent action is needed to protect these fragile coastal areas. Residents and environmental groups are calling for strong opposition to the bill.To support efforts to halt the proposed sand mining, the New Zealand Endangered Species Foundation has launched a petition to raise awareness and protect Bream Bay. You can sign the petition here: https://www.endangeredspecies.org.nz/sign-petition-stop-sandmining-bream-bay)

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