Did you know that nearly 10% of all packaging material is made up of caps and lids?!It’s estimated that around 16,000 tonnes of caps and lids are in circulation annually—that’s the equivalent of 900 truckloads of waste. Shockingly, 60% of household grocery items come with a cap or lid to keep products safe and secure.That’s a huge amount of waste that could be recycled. But due to changes in kerbside recycling regulations introduced by the government in February, these materials are now ending up in landfills.Despite being made of valuable plastic and metal, caps and lids are no longer accepted in kerbside recycling collections.However, there’s good news! The Caps & Lids Recycling Programme, launched this month, aims to divert as many metal and plastic caps and lids as possible from landfills, ensuring they are recycled into new products instead.This 100% member-funded initiative is managed by The Packaging Forum, which also oversees other recycling schemes such as the Soft Plastic Recycling Scheme, the Food and Beverage Container Recycling Scheme, and the Glass Packaging Forum Scheme.Several industry groups support this effort, including the NZ Food and Grocery Council, Plastics NZ, and the NZ Association of Metal Recyclers.Metal caps are sent to local recyclers like Hayes Metals, Simms Metals, and the Association of Metal Recyclers for processing and reuse.Plastic lids are collected by PACT Recycling in Auckland, where they are granulated, washed, and dried. They are then shipped to Australia for further sorting and recycling into products like wheelie bins, flower pots, slipsheets, and cable covers.This programme offers a sustainable solution, giving these caps and lids a second life instead of sending them to landfills.Photo: Mangawhai Heads Four Squares new collection boxes.Currently, there are only two official collection points on The Caps & Lids webiste, however we have also added a few that we are aware of below - totally four. We need more businesses to come onboard to help us reduce the amount of recyclable waste that would otherwise go to landfill.Collection Locations:New World Albany: 219 Don McKinnon Drive, AlbanyFour Square Mangawhai Heads: 3 Wood Street, Mangawhai HeadsPak'n'Save Warkworth - 12 Hudson Road, Warkworth, 0910Less Waste Warkworth: 55 Lawrie Road, Warkworth (FYI they have a fantastic op shop on site!) - Wednesday to Saturday 9am – 3pmLess Waste Wellsford: 47 Station Rd, Wellsford - Tuesday 9am – 3pm & Saturday 9am – 1pmWe hope more supermarkets and businesses will join the initiative to provide this crucial recycling service.So what can be recycled?** PLEASE REMEMBER to keep PLASTICS and METAL separate, as they go in different bins!!Plastics accepted at collection points:Flip-top/hinged capsScrew capsMilk bottle capsIce cream container lidsYoghurt and dip lids (no peel-off film)Supplement bottle lidsHousehold cleaning lidsShampoo and cosmetic lidsPlease note: No coffee cup lids or glass.Metals accepted at collection points:Crown caps (bottle caps)Jar lidsRing pull capsWire from sparkling drink bottlesMetal screw topsAluminium lidsWine lidsFood tin lidsPlease note: No coffee pods.For more information, visit their website: https://capslids.recycling.kiwi.nzLet’s help spread the word! Please encourage local businesses, especially supermarkets, to participate in this vital programme and help reduce our environmental impact.

Police are seeking information to identify a man sought as part of an ongoing investigation.Detective Senior Sergeant Kathy Bostock, from Auckland City CIB, says the incident is sensitive in nature and occurred in the Auckland City area last year.“As part of the investigation we have located footage of a man we would like to speak with as part of the investigation,” she says.“Despite further enquiries being made into this footage we have so far been unable to identify him.“The public will in no doubt know who he is, and I would encourage them to contact us.”Detective Senior Sergeant Bostock also encourages the man himself to make contact with Police.Please contact Police online now or call 105 using the reference number 240616/3973.Information can also be provided anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.

Northland woman Tina Johnson has shared her extraordinary story of survival after a tornado completely destroyed her Mangawhai home, leaving her seriously injured and her property in ruins.Johnson was asleep in her second-storey bedroom on Old Waipu Road around 3am on January 26 when she woke to the sound of an approaching tornado. Within seconds, she and the mattress she was on were sucked into the tornado’s vortex, lifted and spun through the air, before being thrown from her home and landing on top of her metal shed. The bedroom roof then collapsed on top of her.Despite her injuries, she was able to call for help, with neighbours quickly coming to her aid. Reaching her was challenging for emergency crews due to the debris and destruction blocking the roads. She was carried down the road before being transported to Mangawhai Heads Beach, where she was airlifted by helicopter to Auckland Hospital.Johnson suffered serious injuries, including a broken bone protruding from her wrist and significant damage to her leg. She has undergone multiple surgeries and faces a long recovery. She is currently using a wheelchair but is making progress, with hopes of being discharged soon.Kaipara Mayor Craig Jepson visited Tina in hospital in February - the KFC and a beer was very welcomed!However, with her home completely destroyed and now being demolished, Johnson has no house to return to. She plans to move in with friends in Mangawhai once she leaves hospital and is incredibly grateful for the support shown by her community and strangers throughout her recovery.A Givealittle page, set up by her neighbour to support her recovery, has so far raised more than $5800. Funds donated will go towards her recovery and living expenses until she is fit and healthy again. ACC will provide some financial assistance.To donate, visit the Givealittle page here:https://givealittle.co.nz/cause/mangawhai-tornado-destroys-tinas-home-and-leaves

Peter de GraafA man has been charged over the death of a woman who was fatally shot at a Whangārei park last week.The 63-year-old man was charged in a bedside court hearing at Auckland Hospital today.He is accused of murdering Yvonne Chapman, 66, at Beach Road Reserve in the seaside suburb of Onerahi on Thursday.Gunshots were heard at about 11.10am, and Chapman was found dead at the scene when police arrived, with a man also found with serious injuries.Acting Detective Senior Sergeant Shane Pilmer said nobody else was being sought over the incident."We are pleased to have been able to arrest someone in relation to this tragic incident."I would also like to thank those members of the public who provided information, which was crucial to this investigation."Police at the scene of the shooting last week. Photo: RNZ / Nick MonroThe man is currently under police guard at Auckland Hospital and has been remanded in custody to reappear in the Whangārei District Court later this month.RNZ understands the pair had been in a relationship.Chapman, from Parua Bay, has been described by family members as a much-loved mother and grandmother.In a tribute on social media one of her sons said: "She touched the lives of so many with her kindness and love, she was a precious taonga to us and will be terribly missed."He also spoke of the family's deep sorrow, and the outpouring of love and support from friends and the wider family.A funeral service will be held in Whangārei on Wednesday morning.The shooting, which took place near a busy playground frequented by local children, has shocked Onerahi residents.This story was originally published by RNZ

Speed Limits ConsultationNZTA is currently consulting in several regions across the country from 30 January to 13 March 2025 to gauge public support for maintaining reduced speed limits at specific state highway locations.Unless there is clear public support to keep these lower limits, NZTA is required to revert the affected locations back to their previous speed limits by 1 July 2025.In Auckland, the consultation focuses on two sections of interregional state highway on State Highway 1, located north of Auckland:Between south of Dome Valley andThe northern end of the Ara Tūhono–Pūhoi to Warkworth motorway.Following the consultation period, NZTA will share the results along with future dates for any confirmed speed limit changes in Auckland during 2025.For more information: 📄 [Download the Auckland speed limits consultation info sheet (PDF, 881 KB)]🔔 Subscribe to updates to stay informed.To learn more about the Setting of Speed Limits Rule 2024 and other locations undergoing auto-reversal, please visit NZTA’s website.Have your say on Auckland speed limitsThe public is invited to share feedback on one or both of the following locations: 🚗 SH1 South of Dome Valley 🚗 SH1 Warkworth NorthPlease note: Feedback regarding other auto-reversal corridors cannot be submitted through this consultation survey. However, NZTA encourages feedback on other areas via email at [email protected] for consideration in future speed reviews.TO START THE SURVEY

Visit the beautiful Mahurangi Peninsula and while you're there visit the Crimson Coast Cafe to dine in or take out.Crimson Coast Café located in Snells Beach emerged from the transformation of the former Little and Local Coffee Kitchen, which had closed at the time of purchase. The building and its chattels were in dire need of repair, making a complete rebranding, remodeling, and fresh direction essential before reopening.Months of dedication, effort, and the invaluable contributions of friends—both old and new—shaped every aspect of the café, from its design and construction to its menu and daily operations. Finally, on November 20th, 2023, they proudly opened their doors.Since then, the support from the local community has been extraordinary. With the annual influx of summer visitors to the area, they never anticipated the café’s rapid success—especially given its beginnings in a challenging economic climate.The Heart of Crimson: Community & PassionAt the heart of Crimson Coast Café is an incredible team, in which the owners Amy & Andrew Algie are immensely proud. Amy & Andrew Algie set and uphold high standards for food, drinks, and service, the true foundation of Crimson lies in family values, appreciation, kindness, and warmth.A Coastal Escape Inspired by NatureThe essence of Crimson Coast Café is rooted in the striking crimson glow of the pōhutukawa flowers that line the bays and beaches of the Mahurangi Peninsula each summer. While this area is a quieter, less-traveled neighbor to the Matakana Coast, it is no less beautiful.From the family-friendly, crystal-clear waters of Martins Bay to the sailing and boating haven of Algies Bay, this region offers something for everyone. Snells Beach and Brick Bay provide safe, shallow waters, vast open fields, and playgrounds for families to enjoy. For those seeking adventure, Kawau Island is just a short boat ride away from Algies Bay or Martins Bay, or accessible via ferry from Sandspit.Nestled between Algies and Martins Bay is Scandrett Regional Park, a now council-owned former farm where visitors can walk, explore, or simply relax on the beach. On the western side of the peninsula, the Mahurangi River meanders its way to Warkworth, beginning at oyster-rich farms and passing the historic Scott House at Scotts Landing. This is a special place, perfect for relaxing, sunning, swimming, playing, and staying—and Amy & Andrew hope Crimson Coast Café is yet another great reason to visit.Amy and Andrew are deeply grateful for their team, their regulars, the wider community, and, of course, their customers—the people who keep their doors open.Cars & Coffee: A Community Event with Racing Legend Steve MillenEarlier in the summer, Crimson Coast Café also hosted a North Shore Classic Car Club run, where members enjoyed the relaxed atmosphere and easy parking. We’ve been assured they’ll return, and we’ll be sure to spread the word when they do.A highlight for both locals and visitors is the newly formed Cars & Coffee event, generously organized by Steve and Jodie Millen. For those unfamiliar with motorsport, Steve Millen is a New Zealand-born racing legend.On Saturday, March 15th, from 7:30 AM to 9:30 AM, Steve and Jodie will host another Cars & Coffee meet-up in the Mahurangi Shopping Centre car park (280 Mahurangi East Road, Snells Beach) before heading back to the USA.This marks the third such gathering this summer and early autumn, following two previous events that drew an incredible turnout of car owners, enthusiasts, and curious passersby eager to admire these magnificent automobiles. We’re looking forward to another fantastic morning—and fingers crossed for fine weather!Crimson Coast Café hope for the future is simple: that those who haven’t yet visited Crimson Coast Café will. They love what they do, they love where they are, and they warmly welcome everyone who stops by.

Car lovers, classic car enthusiasts, and motorsport fans gathered for an unforgettable Sunday morning at The Silver Fox of Omaha, where the Coffee & Cars event took place from 9 AM to 1 PM. This free community gathering, held monthly until May, has quickly become a must-attend for those who appreciate beautiful cars and great company.A Simple Yet Perfect Formula: Coffee, Cars & CommunityThe concept is simple: park your car, grab a coffee, and connect with like-minded enthusiasts. Whether you own a pristine classic, a rare collector’s item, or simply admire the craftsmanship of fine automobiles, this event brings people together over a shared passion for cars.The relaxed atmosphere makes it the perfect way to spend a Sunday morning—chatting with fellow car lovers, admiring an incredible range of vehicles, and supporting the local community.Special Feature: Mortimers Motorsport Car DisplayAdding to the excitement, this month’s event featured a special invited car display from Mortimers Motorsport—renowned race car constructors. Their showcase brought a dynamic element to the gathering, giving attendees an up-close look at some of the finest race cars and engineering expertise in the country.From classic beauties to high-performance machines, the variety on display was a true testament to the dedication and passion of car enthusiasts.Giving Back: A Gold Coin for the CommunityWhile the event itself was completely free, attendees were encouraged to show their support with a gold coin donation, reinforcing the importance of giving back to the local community. By simply enjoying a morning among stunning cars, great coffee, and friendly faces, participants helped contribute to something meaningful.Join Us for the Next Coffee & Cars Event! Sponsored by The Silver FoxDi Balich - Licensed Real EstatePremium Real EstateWith such a successful turnout, Coffee & Cars at The Silver Fox of Omaha is set to continue on a monthly basis until May. Whether you’re a longtime classic car enthusiast or just looking for a great way to spend your Sunday morning, we invite you to be part of this growing community event.Stay tuned for details on future meetups, special displays, and more opportunities to connect over a shared love of cars!Check out The Matakana Coast App Events for the March date.See you at the next Coffee & Cars!

Peter de GraafAbout 20 people evacuated from their homes at the height of the Waipoua Forest fire on Wednesday face an anxious wait to find out when they can return.However iwi leader and general manager of Te Roroa Development Group, Snow Tane, said it was a huge relief that so far no homes had been lost and no one had been injured.Tane said one person per household had been allowed back to Waipoua Settlement on Thursday to gather essential belongings ahead of a worsening forecast for fire conditions on Friday.He said the residents returned to their homes in a convoy escorted by firefighters."It allowed people to go in and get some of their belongings, some of their medication. We had to remove stock, horses and dogs. It went well. It was only a short window, for about an hour, and then we had to be back out of the zone before it became more of a risk."Tane, who also owns a house in the settlement, said the fleeting visit brought home just how close the flames came to taking everything people owned."We're talking metres… probably within 10 metres."There were still a lot of hotspots around the settlement, but the containment crews were doing a good job making sure there was no risk to homes.Tane said about a dozen evacuees were staying at Waikarā Marae, at Aranga, just south of the forest, where some ended up after fleeing to the safety off the beach and walking down the coast.The rest were staying with whānau or at Taita Marae further south."There's a lot more comfort knowing they're in a safe environment, being hosted at Waikarā Marae. I think they're feeling safe there. Obviously, they're anxious about what's happening to their homes back at Waipoua Forest Settlement, but being in a safe place is the priority, and I think that's what the whānau down there appreciate."Tane said he had been moved by the public response to the evacuees' plight.The iwi had been swamped with donations of food including entire sides of mutton, clothing and koha, dropped off at its offices in Dargaville and the store in Waimamaku."Communities from right around Tai Tokerau [Northland] have been ringing in, and now we're getting inundated with food and clothing and those sorts of things. The response has been amazing and much appreciated. I think it's fantastic but it doesn't surprise me. I know that when people are in need, the whole community, Māori and non-Māori, get together and support one another."Tane said the fire was concentrated in iwi-owned pine blocks, so the great kauri trees of Waipoua Forest were not under immediate threat."But the native forest isn't too far away so the biggest challenge for us is to contain the fire where it is, so it doesn't put that at risk."Fire 50 percent containedFire and Emergency say the fire remains fifty percent contained heading into tonight.The latest update said the fire is still at 96 hectares with a 4.5-kilometre perimeter.Fire crews will work through the night to protect the 20 homes in the Waipoua settlement which so far have not been damaged.There will be a reduction in the number of helicopters used tomorrow, downsizing from eight to three.Those helicopters will be back in the air at first light tomorrow as firefighters on the ground continue to extend containment lines with the help of heavy machinery.Emergency services are reminding the public to stay away from the area for their own safety.This story was originally published by RNZ

The reopening of a custody unit on Auckland's North Shore will reduce the time frontline staff will spend transporting people in custody according to police.The Waitematā East District Custody Unit will be used for operations across the North Shore and Rodney district.The facility began accepting detainees on Tuesday morning with Police Commissioner Richard Chambers, Minister of Police Mark Mitchell and Waitematā District Commander Superintendent Naila Hassan in attendance."Waitematā is a vast district geographically and it's important my staff aren't unnecessarily taken off the road for lengthy periods of time," Chambers said."The new District Custody Unit will mean reduced travel times for staff working as far north as Wellsford, down to Devonport.""At the end of the day we'll have frontline staff back out there faster working to keep the community safe."With high tech CCTV and intercom systems, the unit will reduce costs and processing times for officers."The facility is technologically advanced and future-focused for our custody staff," Chambers said."Our Custody Units are an important part of managing people in our care and custody safely."In many instances those people in custody require intensive monitoring, and features such as high-quality CCTV and intercom systems will help custody staff.""It's great to see the use of technology to make savings and efficiencies, such as the high-quality audio-visual link suite installed."."In many instances for those detainees appearing in court remotely this will remove some costs and complexities associate in transporting them," he said.The facility had been decommissioned in 2013 but has now re-opened to help police manage the more than 120,000 people put into custody each year throughout New Zealand."We are continuing to find ways to adapt to the growing demand and population across communities in Waitemata," Superintendent Hassan said."This facility will be supported by sworn police staff, alongside additional Authorised Officers recruited into the roles."This story was originally published by RNZ

On 1 March and 8 March we're holding community information sessions about our progress on the Northland Corridor.We had such a great response to our summer roadshow that we’re holding two more sessions in Warkworth and Wellsford. Join us to learn more about our progress on Ara Tūhono – Warkworth to Te Hana, one of three new Roads of National Signficance that'll make up the 100-kilometre Northland Corridor from Warkworth to Whangārei. Come along:• Saturday 1 March, 10am–2pm at Warkworth Masonic Hall, 3 Baxter Street, Warkworth• Saturday 8 March, 10am–2pm at Wellsford Community Centre, 1 Matheson Road, WellsfordPop in anytime – we look forward to seeing you!You can follow our event posts to add these events to your Facebook notifications:• Northland Corridor community information session in Warkworth• Northland Corridor community information session in Wellsford

Four helicopters and multiple fire crews are on their way to a large blaze raging in Northland's Waipoua Forest.The fire is off Waipoua River Road, near Waipoua Settlement and the former forest headquarters.It is roughly 6km south of Tāne Mahuta, the world's largest surviving kauri tree.Fire crews from Ōmāpere and Dargaville are so far at the scene with more on the way.A number of homes in Waipoua Settlement are believed to be threatened.They are being protected by volunteer firefighters from Dargaville until helicopters arrive.It is not known if the blaze is in pine plantation, native bush or both.This story was originally published by RNZ

Robbie at Coast Chiropractic has been a local business fixture for 9 years at Mangawhai Heads and will soon be moving location. In a few weeks she will be operating from her newly built boutique studio. To book a session head to her website www.coastchiropractic.co.nzDemolition is in full swing at 2 Moir Point Road, Mangawhai Heads to make way for Parkview Mangawhai a leased commercial space for businesses.Earthworks on Mangawhai Hills development on Tara/Cove roads has begun.Mangawhai Hills College has opened for its first school year with about 20 students. With expansion set in future years.Northpower has installed a new 15-megawatt substation at Mangawhai Central to accommodate the many hundreds of houses that will be built in the near future. You can read all about it here: 'New 15-megawatt substation at Mangawhai Central'Wharehine Community Hall out in Pah Hill Road between Port Albert and Ātiu regional park has undergone major restoration works thanks to donations of time and money from the community. A hub for events, celebrations and farewells, the building is 145 years old. The big reveal happened over the weekend with many people from the community attending the opening event.Monster Fun playground in Snells Beach is set to open in April this year! Located in the old Warehouse building.A new hardware/gardening type store will soon be opening in Snells Beach in the old pharmacy building. Snells Beach Pharmacy relocated across the road last year next to the medical centre.Good4All community garden in Snells Beach looks set to be taken on by Mahurangi East Library in the future and expanded further. A great initiative for people to grow and learn together as part of the community.Pristine Panelworks located at Unit 8, 1 Hamatana Road, Snells Beach are open 6am-4pm Monday to Thursday and provide insurance and rust repairs, auto valet and spray painting https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100094687237036A new business has come to Warkworth – Teddy Lane - offers press on nails and DIY home manicure kits. Check out https://www.instagram.com/teddylanenz/#If you want us to give your new business a shoutout then email us at [email protected] advertising options on the app email [email protected] or [email protected]

Mangawhai Central SubstationLocation: Mangawhai CentralInvestment: $11.2 millionStart Date: December 2022Completion Date: March 2024Providing for a growing communityWith the historically small seaside settlement of Mangawhai expanding steadily in recent years, Northpower has constructed a brand-new substation in the area to meet the growing demand for electricity.This new 15-megawatt substation is located within the Mangawhai Central development area. It consists of a modern tilt slab building housing all the electrical equipment and is designed to blend with the surroundings, including fresh landscaping and planting.Providing now and into the futureThe substation has been built with room to grow. It is initially powering 7,500 homes and providing backup to customers supplied from the Mangawhai North substation.There is space within the building to house an additional transformer of 15 megawatts, enabling expanded capacity as Mangawhai grows.Along with the substation, new high-voltage lines are being installed in the area, increasing the electricity supply’s reliability.Keeping it localNorthpower worked closely with local hapū, Te Uri O Hau to appropriately acknowledge the history of the substation site, and the changing nature of the land use. The site of the Mangawhai Central substation was blessed by Te Uri O Hau before the first sod was turned.The project was completed by Northpower with the help of local contractors, contributing to employment in the area.Once the substation was completed, we held an open day, for locals to come and check it out. It was a great turnout with interested people and families taking the chance to see the inner workings of a new substation.Minimising power outages to the communityTo help avoid negative impacts and inconvenience to the Mangawhai community when livening the substation, we utilised some switching to back feed customers where possible.We had two widespread planned power outages to connect and liven the new lines and substation but were able to do this overnight to reduce the impact on our valued Mangawhai customers.

Watercare has finished cementing the concrete foundations and plinths to support the state-of-the-art upgrades at the Wellsford Wastewater Treatment Plant.Made from reinforced concrete, the nine plinths were installed on top of 99,000 litres of concrete that was poured one week earlier.Each of the plinths will support a tank that will play a crucial role in the treatment plant’s $38.3 million upgrade.The upgrade will allow the plant to meet stricter resource consent requirements and to better cope with peak flows during wet weather.Once the upgrades are finished, six of the nine plinths will hold two Membrane-Aerated Biofilm Reactor (MABR) tanks, two aerobic tanks and two anoxic tanks.The other three plinths will support future tanks that can be installed later to enable future population growth in the area.The upgrades are on track to be completed by the middle of next year.Watercare head of wastewater Jonathan Piggot says having MABR tanks and Membrane Bioreactor (MBR) technology integrated into the treatment process will result in cleaner water being discharged into the Hōteo River and surrounding environment.“The MBR and MABR technology are very efficient in removing organic matter and nutrients.“This is largely thanks to microorganisms (bugs) which work on our behalf; we just create the right conditions for them.Watercare cements the concrete foundations and plinths to support the state-of-the-art upgrades at the Wellsford Wastewater Treatment Plant.“Any pathogens that pass through the membranes face ultraviolet disinfection, ensuring high-quality wastewater discharge.”Watercare capital delivery general manager Suzanne Lucas says the layout of the upgraded plant utilises modular design principles, where each part will be built separately and joined together at the treatment plant.“Opting for a modular design for the upgrade allows us to incorporate existing infrastructure into the new build, reducing construction time and cost.“It also provides greater flexibility to scale up and update technology to meet future needs and accommodate population growth.”Lucas says over March the MABR tanks will be lifted into position and the work for installing the supporting and mechanical electricals will get underway on site.“Over the next couple of months, we’ll also have crews on site installing a new inlet pump station, a new dosing area, control building and new outfall pipeline. “Traffic management will be in place approximately 300 metres on either side of the entrance on State Highway 1, around 2.5km outside of Wellsford, to allow for the high number of trucks and vehicles that will be coming in and out of the site.“We appreciate the community's patience and understanding as we work to increase the plant’s capacity and ensure its long-term sustainability.”

Warkworth Butchery: Award-Winning Quality, Premium Meats & Hands-On Butchery CoursesNestled in the heart of Warkworth, Warkworth Butchery is more than just a butcher shop—it's a hub for top-quality meats, expert craftsmanship, and now, interactive butchery courses. With a long-standing commitment to excellence, this family-run butchery has become a household name for locals who appreciate the finest cuts and unbeatable flavours.An award-winning butchery like no otherAt Warkworth Butchery, quality isn’t just a promise—it’s a proven achievement. Owner Rob Lees secured the title of NZ Master Butcher of the Year in 2020 on his first attempt, setting the stage for continued success in New Zealand’s top meat competitions.NZ Bacon Awards 2022Supreme Winner – Dry Cured Middle Bacon (Best bacon in NZ!)Gold – Preservative-Free Dry Cured BaconSilver – Dry Cured Shoulder BaconGreat New Zealand Sausage Competition 2022Gold – Pork, Jalapeño & CheeseGold – Lamb MerguezGreat New Zealand Sausage Competition 2023Gold – Traditional BeefGold – Pork, Parmesan, Truffle & BaconHam & Bacon Awards 2024Gold – Dry Cured Shoulder BaconBronze – Preservative-Free BaconGreat New Zealand Sausage Competition 2024Gold – WarkwurstGold – Lamb Merguez (again!)Gold – Frank 'n' PenoSilver – Farmhouse Precooked SausageSilver – Sunday Roast LambWith a track record of excellence, it's no wonder Warkworth Butchery is renowned for delivering some of the best meats in the country.NEW: Butchery courses for the publicKeen to learn from the experts? Warkworth Butchery now offers hands-on courses for food enthusiasts and home cooks, including:Sausage Masterclass – Learn the art of making the perfect sausage.Pig in a Day – Master the breakdown and preparation of a whole pig.These courses provide an unforgettable experience and a unique chance to learn from an award-winning butcher.Premium meat boxes for every budgetWant to stock up on top-quality meats without the hassle? Warkworth Butchery offers convenient meat boxes in a range of sizes and prices—ideal for families, foodies, and BBQ enthusiasts looking for premium cuts at great value.More the just a butcherBeyond its famous meats, Warkworth Butchery is a one-stop shop for:Fresh milk & eggsPet foodGourmet rubs & saucesHome kill services for paddock-to-plate transparencyVisit TodayExperience the award-winning difference at Warkworth Butchery. Visit them at 10 Queen Street, Warkworth, or explore their selection and book a course online at warkworthbutchery.co.nz.

The Government is investing $30 million from the International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL) to enhance biodiversity and support conservation-focused tourism, with significant improvements planned for Goat Island / Te Hāwere a Maki, Conservation Minister Tama Potaka has announced.Boosting Conservation TourismTourism is a key economic driver, and our natural environment is one of Aotearoa New Zealand's biggest attractions for international visitors.By improving tourism infrastructure and investing in conservation, we ensure visitors continue to have world-class experiences while supporting local economies.New Zealand’s first marine reserve, Goat Island / Te Hāwere a Maki (Cape Rodney- Ōkakari Point), will celebrate its 50th anniversary later this year. The site, which attracts approximately 350,000 visitors annually, is among the top 10 most visited natural heritage areas in the country.Improvements at Goat IslandAs part of an $11 million investment to enhance visitor experiences at key natural heritage sites, Goat Island will receive funding to improve:Beach access for visitorsCar parking facilitiesRecognition of the site's significant cultural heritageThese upgrades will not only enhance the visitor experience but also support local businesses in Leigh, Matakana, and the surrounding areas.Strengthening Environmental ProtectionBeyond tourism infrastructure, the Government is allocating $19 million from the IVL towards biodiversity protection efforts, including:Expanding predator control to protect native speciesManaging invasive species such as wallabies, deer, and goats to allow native flora and fauna to thriveRemoving wilding pines from iconic landscapesGoat Island is a treasured marine environment, and ensuring its protection is crucial for the region’s biodiversity and tourism appeal.These initiatives align with the upcoming Hauraki Gulf Bill, which aims to provide the highest level of environmental protection for the region’s marine ecosystems.The investment in Goat Island and other key locations is part of the Government’s broader strategy to strengthen sustainable tourism, protect New Zealand’s natural heritage, and ensure visitors continue to have unforgettable experiences in the country’s unique landscapes.

Dargaville Police have identified offenders involved in a string of burglaries earlier this week.Enquiries have been underway since three businesses were targeted in the early hours of 18 February.Whangārei – Kaipara Area Commander, Inspector Maria Nordstrom, says local staff have been investigating.Burglaries had occurred at a retail store, dairy and petrol station.“We are treating these three burglaries as linked, and have identified three young people allegedly involved,” Inspector Nordstrom says.“All three, who are aged between 11 and 15 are being referred to Youth Aid.”Police are not currently seeking any further offenders over these incidents.“I’d like to acknowledge our staff who worked quickly to identify those responsible in these cases,” Inspector Nordstrom says.“Your local Police are continuing to work closely with the local community groups around addressing any concerns and ways to keep yourself safe.”

The Wellsford tennis and netball clubs finally have some positive news to share with their community after facing years of frustration due to poor drainage degrading their court areas and causing costly maintenance. In 2017 the tennis club surrendered their court lease in the hope that Auckland Council would take on the responsibility to upgrade facilities. With no local courts players were forced to join Warkworth and Mangawhai clubs to have games putting the Wellsford Club into recess. The netball club were able to carry on with limited court availability due to surface cracking. Two years ago the tennis turf was removed and the original asphalt surface patched up to allow more courts for netballers.  However, this surface was still gritty raising health and safety concerns over the winter months. Last November Council laid a smooth surface on top as a temporary solution. Line markings allow for 2 netball, 2 tennis and 2 basketball courts complete with nets and ready for play.The Wellsford Sports Collective had been lobbying council for many years to come up with a staged Master Plan for the whole park.  Auckland Council commissioned Visitor Solutions in 2023 to do a feasibility study to determine how a court facilities upgrade might proceed. Their initial plan was criticised for poor traffic flow, disjointed parking areas and unsafe pedestrian access. These criticisms were taken to a specialist park development company and have been revised. The revised plan allows for 3 stages of development:Four netball / tennis courts and two basketball courts (multi-court style).A new covered outdoor netball/ tennis court area and playground A new building with provision for netball/ tennis and mezzanine seating.Stage 1 has been budgeted for completion later this year with renewed plexi-pave surfacing and a widened court footprint.Stages 2 and 3 are planned when additional outside funding becomes available. Anyone wanting to know more or support these developments please contact Wendy Crow-Jones (Tennis) 021 1446613 or Lynette Gubb (netball) 021 1168437 or email the Collective    [email protected]

Experts agree that advances to GMO technology means laws need to change. But just how those changes look is contentious.The government is promising a relaxation of gene technology regulations will provide economic growth for the country, but critics fear the new bill is too loose and a step too far."It is using a bulldozer to crack a nut," Jack Heinemann, professor of genetics at the University of Canterbury, tells The Detail.Public submissions for the Gene Technology Bill closed this week.Introduced late last year, the bill aims to modernise New Zealand's regulations on genetic modification (GM) and gene editing technologies, and seeks to balance the potential benefits of gene technologies with environmental, health, economic, and cultural considerations.Currently, New Zealand's regulations - among the most stringent in the world - mean that GMOs cannot be released out of containment without going through a rigorous process.The government says the purpose of the new bill, set to be in place by the end of the year, is to enable the safe use of gene technology and regulated organisms in New Zealand, while the intention is to establish a new regulatory regime for gene technology and GMOs.Among the changes, low-risk gene editing techniques that produce changes indistinguishable from traditional breeding will be exempted from regulation and a new regulator of the industry will be appointed.In his state of the nation speech this month, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon said "enabling gene technology is about backing farmers. It is about embracing growth. It is about saying 'yes', instead of 'no'".But critics - including Professor Heinemann - argue that deregulating gene editing technologies has wider consequences than the government has considered."They are taking an approach where some of the most powerful of our gene technology tools will be deregulated which means anybody can use them, anywhere, anytime,'' Professor Heinemann says."This legislation would take chemical components, that happen to be biological molecules, that are also very potent mutagens and allow people to use them anywhere without any kind of oversight."When we have done those kinds of operations historically, we have at least required that they be done inside a registered containment facility, so we can control who is using them, who is exposed to them and what happens to the things that we didn't want exposed or to the things that were changed in ways that we didn't want them to be changed in, and make sure that those don't escape the laboratory and get into the environment."This is the departure point for the bill as proposed... for some of the most important, easily obtained and powerful of the techniques we have available right now."He said New Zealand's identity as a GMO-free export country would disappear.Just this week, the Consumers Union of Japan, a leading consumer advocacy group of about 30 million people, reiterated its longstanding rejection of GM foods, urging New Zealand to remain a natural food exporter.In an open letter, chairperson Mrs Michiyo Koketsu said: "We hope you will remain a stable, wonderful, and natural food exporter. Do not underestimate the old saying, 'the customer is king,' and please keep New Zealand GM-free."But Newsroom.co.nz political reporter Fox Meyer, who has been covering the story, tells The Detail that while the bill is a seismic shift for the country, there are benefits."GMOs are not as alien as we might think," Meyer says. "And whether or not New Zealand is currently using GMO technology, we are all consuming GMOs every day... and we have been modifying the genes of crops for thousands of years to arrive at the ones that we enjoy now."What we are able to do now is speed up that process effectively, as long as you know what you are doing, and you know how to target the changes that you want to see. It offers a lot of advantages."The new bill can facilitate the development and availability of innovative medical therapies, such as CAR T-cell therapy for cancer treatment, and it may support the development of genetically modified crops that are resistant to pests and diseases, which could enhance agricultural productivity and sustainability. This could help farmers adapt to climate change and reduce reliance on chemical pesticides."You can get crops that are resilient to climate change, that can weather higher highs and lower lows or require more or less water or have higher yields, that's an especially important one" says Meyer."But there's also just conveniences - imagine an onion that doesn't make you cry, or [how] the red grapefruit's colour is actually a product of GMO back in the 1970s in America."The sky's the limit with it, as far as the possibilities are concerned... it's just finding the right methods and shoring up the regulations."This story was originally published by RNZ