Message from AT and Auckland Council:Beginning week of 25th February, 7pm to 7am.Programmed resurfacing works on Mahurangi East Road in Snells Beach. Road Corridor Maintenance team have advised that the section of Mahurangi East Road planned for chip seal resurfacing during their 2023/24 financial year is the 1.1km section from the vicinity of Dawson Road to Mariners Grove in Algies Bay. This is planned to be completed during the week beginning 25th February, weather permitting. These night works are planned to be completed between hours of 7pm to 7am.

IMPORTANT NOTICE: OVERNIGHT CLOSURE ON SH1 FOR MOTORWAY FINISHING WORKSAs part of the Ara Tūhono – Pūhoi to Warkworth motorway finishing works, the artwork situated on Tapuwae o Kahumatamomoe – Moir Hill Bridge is set to be installed from late February.To ensure the safe installation of the artwork, an overnight closure of SH1 is necessary. The closure will extend from Pukerito roundabout in the north to the Pūhoi on and off-ramps in the south in both directions for six nights starting from Sunday, February 25.SH1 will be closed from 9 pm to 5 am, from Sunday, February 25, to Sunday, March 3.During the closure, the on and off-ramps at Pūhoi will remain open and available for use. Traffic heading north from Johnstones Hill Tunnel will exit SH1 at Pūhoi off-ramp and travel north via ‘Old SH1’. Southbound traffic will head south from Warkworth on ‘Old SH1’ and can continue south onto Hibiscus Coast Highway to use the free route or use the on-ramp at Pūhoi to head south via SH1 through Johnstones Hill Tunnels.Please note that these works are weather-dependent and cannot be conducted in heavy rain or high winds. Our team has considered some contingency, but significant rain or high winds may require rescheduling to the next suitable night.Stay updated on closures by checking the Waka Kotahi Journey Planner before heading out at https://www.journeys.nzta.govt.nz/We understand the inconvenience this may cause, and we sincerely thank the community for their patience as we complete these important finishing works.For any construction-related queries, please reach out to our stakeholder and communications team at [email protected]. For questions about the operations and maintenance of the new road, contact 0800 4 HIGHWAYS (0800 44 44 49).

Auckland's next Long-term Plan (LTP), also known as the 10-year Budget, is due to take effect in June 2024. It sets out what we plan to achieve in Auckland over the next 10 years and how we will fund it.Mayoral ProposalThe Mayoral Proposal is a significant part of the process to develop and adopt the Long-term Plan. The proposal was released on 1 December 2023 and outlines the mayor’s vision and priorities for the Long-term Plan 2024-2034.When you can have your sayThe topics for public consultation will be decided at budget committee workshops in December 2023.Public consultation will then open on 28 February 2024.This is when you can have your say and leave any feedback you have about the mayor's proposals.Register for updatesComplete our registration form to receive email updates about the Long-term Plan and other Auckland Council projects.You do not need to complete the registration form if you are already signed-up for AK Have Your Say updates.Read the Mayoral Proposal and Staff Advice to support the Mayoral ProposalVisit Mayoral Proposal for the Long-term Plan 2024-2034 (10-year Budget) to read the full documents.Timeline for the Long-term Plan 2024-2034

The residential housing market has had a sluggish start to the year, with high mortgage rates continuing to suppress activity.The latest data from property research firm CoreLogic showed there were 3169 sales in January, only 2 percent up from the same month last year.It was the second-lowest January sales volume since 1983 - second only to the same month last year.Average national property values rose 0.4 percent in January and was up 2.1 percent for the quarter, but was down 2.7 percent from a year ago."January's sluggishness in sales is a timely reminder that the housing market is still facing quite a bit of mortgage rate pressure," said CoreLogic NZ chief property economist Kelvin Davidson.He said Auckland was the big drag on the low number of sales nationally.However, he said there was still a "gradual upturn" in the housing market, as annual sales volumes have risen in each of the past nine months."Arguably, listing levels have returned to some kind of normality now, so the reduced sales over the past month probably hints at some uncertainty around buyer demand, rather than a lack of choice," Davidson said.He said there may be a bounce-back in February due to a weaker January."It'll be interesting to see how sales and listing activity evolves in the next month or so, and how market confidence moves too," Davidson said."We suspect the demand would be there to match any additional supply coming on to the market, resulting in an associated rise in agreed sales activity as buyers can see more choice."This story was originally posted by RNZ News

Warkworth RegionTuesday 20th - Partly cloudy, with a few showers clearing this afternoon and becoming fine. Westerlies turning southerly this afternoon.Wednesday 21st - Fine. Southwesterlies, becoming fresh for a time in the afternoon and evening.Thursday 22nd - Fine. Northwesterlies developing for a time in the afternoon and evening.Friday 23rd - Mainly fine, isolated showers developing. Northerlies developing.Saturday 24th - Mainly fine, isolated showers developing. Northwesterlies, easing.Sunday 25th - Partly cloudy, with isolated showers clearing. Northerlies, becoming fresh.Mangawhai RegionTuesday 20th - Areas of morning cloud clearing to mainly fine, but isolated showers remain. Westerlies, turning southerly this evening.Wednesday 21st - Fine. Southerlies.Thursday 22nd - Partly cloudy, with isolated showers developing in the afternoon. Light winds.Friday 23rd - Fine apart from isolated showers. Northerlies developing.Saturday 24th - Fine. Northerlies, easing.Sunday 25th - Partly cloudy, with isolated showers clearing. Northerlies.

Police have recovered a body from Auckland's Kaipara Harbour.The body was found on Saturday afternoon.While the body was yet to be formally identified, it was thought to be a 37-year-old man who was reported missing from Piha last Sunday.The man got into difficulty in the water shortly before being reported missing.The police launch Deodar, Eagle helicopter, Surf Lifesaving New Zealand members and Coastguard all assisted in the search."Police have made contact with the family of the missing person and are providing support," police said.The death would be referred to the Coroner.This story was originally published by RNZ

A person has died in a crash between a motorcycle and quad bike in Warkworth.Police said the crash occurred on private property on Kaipara Flats Road, with emergency services called to the scene at 1.35pm on Saturday.One person died at the scene.The Serious Crash Unit had examined the scene and police said the circumstances of the crash were still being probed.This story was originally published by RNZ

Fire and Emergency New Zealand’s Te Hiku Region (Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland and Te Tai Tokerau Northland) moves to a restricted fire season from 0700 Wednesday 14 February, until further notice.A restricted season means no open-air fires can be legally lit unless a fire permit has been applied for and approved by Fire and Emergency.The restricted fire season covers the whole of Northland south of the Muri Whenua Zone, which is in a prohibited fire season with its boundary being as follows: Northern side of State Highway (SH) 10 from Taipa to Awanui, west of SH1 to Kaitaia, north side of Kaitaia-Awaroa Rd to Wainui, west side of Kaitaia-Awaroa Rd Wainui to Herekino, north side of the Herekino harbour.The restricted fire season covers the entire Auckland Region (excluding the Hauraki Gulf Islands which are in a prohibited fire season) and parts of North Waikato.Declaring the restricted fire season, Te Hiku Region Manager Ron Devlin says the high westerly winds are already causing "spike days" to occur in Northland where the fire danger is hitting the highest level of "extreme.""There is a major risk in our Te Tai Tokerau Northland District of a fire occurring that will be very difficult to control," he says."For the greater Auckland area, weather forecasts show there is very little to no rain in the next 7 days with a long-range forecast of warmer temperatures."It is also forecast that from February to March, the fire season will have forty per cent less rain than normal with a greater wind speed which means the fire danger will be slightly above normal."As we have seen with recent fires, it takes a large number of our fire brigades, many of whom are volunteer, with supporting resources and aircraft to contain and control wildfires."The most recent large wildfire in Northland was in March 2023 near Cape Reinga. It took eight days to extinguish at a cost of more than $1.5 million. The fire near Waiharara in 2021/2022 burnt for 50 days at a cost of more than $10 million."It’s these sorts of fires which we are trying to avoid by implementing a restricted fire season now," Ron Devlin says.We are asking anyone considering lighting a fire to please check the current fire season status by visiting www.checkitsalright.nz to check if they can light a fire. This tool enables you to check what fire season your area is in, as well as providing safety tips if you are able to light a fire, and access to apply for a fire permit if one is required.

The community food bank in Kaiwaka called Te Pātaka o Kaiwaka was broken into on Thursday with a large amount of food stolen, that is used to help those in need..Their freezer has been stripped of the sausages, mince, bacon, and chicken breasts. Other items stolen include laundry liquid detergents and capsules, stain removers, shampoos and conditioners, 1 kg milk powders, Just Juice, coffee, sugar, crackers. Pictures of the items have been posted on the Kaiwaka community page.Many of these items were new donations which came in from the church groups and the few company donors they have Every item they work hard to get and appreciate. This is a real blow for the community. Police have been contacted and the food bank is asking local businesses to share video footage.If you would like to make a food donation to help replenish, please contact them directly:Op Shop hours are Tuesday - Friday 10 am - 2 pm. Donations are welcome during these hours.022 028915609 431 2188 [email protected] Facebook4 Kaiwaka Mangawhai Road, Kaiwaka

One person has been arrested after Warkworth Police Station was damaged and several windows smashed overnight.Waitematā North Area Prevention Manager, Senior Sergeant Roger Small, says the Falls Street station was significantly damaged, including to the building’s interior.“Staff have returned to the Warkworth Police station at around 4.20am to find all the front windows of the building had been smashed and damage caused to the interior of the station.“Fortunately, no one was injured and the person responsible did not gain access inside the compound, or the station.“After reviewing CCTV, we arrested one person who is well-known to Police,” Senior Sergeant Small says.“The Police station is a vital part of the community and it’s disappointing to see it targeted in this manner.“Considerable time and resources will now be spent repairing the damage and losses.“However, I would like to commend staff on their work in quickly identifying the alleged offender and holding them to account.”A 25-year-old man will appear in North Shore District Court today charged with intentional damage.

Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency advises of the following closures for motorway improvements. Work delayed by bad weather will be completed at the next available date, prior to Friday, 23 February 2024. Please note this Traffic Bulletin is updated every Friday.Unless otherwise stated, closures start at 9pm and finish at 5am.NORTHERN MOTORWAY (SH1)Southbound lanes between Orewa off-ramp and Silverdale on-ramp, 18-22 FebruaryOrewa southbound on-ramp, 18-22 FebruaryNorthbound lanes between Silverdale off-ramp and Orewa on-ramp, 18-20 FebruaryNorthbound lanes between Silverdale off-ramp and Orewa on-ramp, 21-22 February (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)Silverdale northbound on-ramp, 18-22 FebruarySouthbound lanes between Silverdale off-ramp and Oteha Valley Road on-ramp, 18-22 FebruarySilverdale southbound on-ramp, 18-22 FebruaryTristram Avenue southbound on-ramp, 21 FebruaryStafford Road northbound off-ramp, 18-22 February (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)Shelly Beach Road southbound off-ramp, 24 February (approx. 8:30pm to 10:00am)Curran Street northbound on-ramp, 18-22 FebruaryCENTRAL MOTORWAY JUNCTION (CMJ)SH1 southbound to SH16 westbound link, 18 & 21-22 February (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)Hobson Street westbound on-ramp, 18 & 21-22 FebruaryNorthbound lanes between Symonds Street off-ramp and Fanshawe Street on-ramp, 18 & 21-22 February (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)Fanshawe Street northbound on-ramp, 18 & 21-22 February (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)Wellington Street northbound on-ramp, 18 & 21-22 FebruarySH16 eastbound to SH1 northbound link, 18 & 21-22 February (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)SH1 northbound to SH16 westbound link, 18 & 21-22 February (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)Westbound lanes between Stanley Street off-ramp and Great North Road on-ramp, 18 & 21-22 February (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)Wellesley Street East westbound on-ramp, 18 & 21-22 FebruarySH16 (Port) westbound to SH1 northbound link, 18 & 21-22 FebruarySH16 (Port) westbound to SH1 southbound link, 18 & 21-22 FebruaryNorthbound lanes between Greenlane off-ramp and Wellesley Street on-ramp, 20 February (approx. 11:00pm to 5:00am)SH1 northbound to SH16 eastbound (Port) link, 20 February (approx. 11:00pm to 5:00am)SH1 northbound to SH16 westbound link, 18-22 February (approx. 11:00pm to 5:00am) SOUTHERN MOTORWAY (SH1)Gillies Avenue northbound on-ramp, 20 February (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)Greenlane northbound on-ramp, 20 February (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)Southbound lanes between Ellerslie-Panmure Highway off-ramp and Mt Wellington Highway on-ramp, 23-24 February (approx. 10:00pm to 7:00am)Ellerslie-Panmure Highway southbound on-ramp, 23-24 February (approx. 9:00pm to 7:00am)East Tamaki Road northbound off-ramp, 19 & 22 February (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)Southbound lanes between Takanini off-ramp and Papakura on-ramp, 18-22 FebruaryTakanini southbound on-ramp, 18-22 FebruaryNorthbound lanes between Drury/SH22 off-ramp and Papakura on-ramp, 18-22 FebruaryDrury/SH22 northbound on-ramp, 18-22 FebruaryPapakura (Loop) northbound on-ramp, 18-22 FebruaryPapakura northbound off-ramp, 18 FebruaryPapakura northbound off-ramp, 19-24 February (approx. 9:00pm to 9:00pm) 24/7Dragway Road northbound off-ramp, 20-22 February (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)Southbound lanes between Hampton Downs off-ramp and Hampton Downs on-ramp, 20-22 February (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)Northbound lanes between Hampton Downs off-ramp and Hampton Downs on-ramp, 20-22 February (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)Hampton Downs northbound on-ramp, 20-22 FebruaryNORTHWESTERN MOTORWAY (SH16)Southbound lanes between Waimauku Roundabout and Trigg Road, 22 FebruaryNorthbound lanes between Trigg Road and Waimauku Roundabout, 22 FebruarySouthbound lanes between Foster Road and Trigg Road, 18-21 FebruaryNorthbound lanes between Trigg Road and Foster Road, 18-21 FebruarySouthbound lanes between Lincoln Road off-ramp and Great North Road on-ramp, 19 February (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)Lincoln Road southbound on-ramp, 19 FebruaryTe Atatu Road (Loop) southbound on-ramp, 19 FebruaryTe Atatu Road (Diamond) southbound on-ramp, 19 FebruaryPatiki Road southbound off-ramp, 20 FebruaryRosebank Road southbound on-ramp, 19 FebruarySH16 eastbound to SH20 southbound link, 19 February (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)SH16 westbound to SH20 southbound link, 18 February (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)St Lukes Road westbound on-ramp, 18-19 FebruaryNewton Road westbound on-ramp, 18-20 FebruaryUPPER HARBOUR MOTORWAY (SH18)Tauhinu Road eastbound off-ramp, 19 February (approx. 8:00pm to 5:00am) SOUTHWESTERN MOTORWAY (SH20)Southbound lanes between Neilson Street off-ramp and Neilson Street on-ramp, 22 February (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)Mahunga Drive southbound off-ramp, 20 February (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am) GEORGE BOLT MEMORIAL DRIVE (SH20A)

It’s time to come and sing your heart out! 🎤🎶New Zealand’s award-winning tribute show, Cam & Sam’s - Elton John vs Billy Joel, is set to wow audiences nationwide! Heading out with their all kiwi cast & crew, from the top of the North Island to the bottom of the South throughout 2024.This hit show comes complete with grand pianos, memorable costumes and all of your favourite songs! EXCLUSIVE TO MATAKANA COAST APP - They are giving away a double pass to their Whangapararoa and Whangarei shows! To enter head to the Win Stuff button.  Over the past year, Cam & Sam have delighted thousands of Elton and Billy fans across the country with a string of sell-out performances with their award-winning homegrown hit tribute show ‘Elton John vs. Billy Joel’! They debuted the wildly successful show in 2022 at The Eat, Drink Play Festival (for which they won the award ‘Best in Play’), and they haven’t looked back. 2023 saw them travel 7000 kilometres! Last year saw them taking the show and their all New Zealand crew across the middle of the North Island, down to the tip of the South and over to the magical West Coast. In 2024 things are going up a notch, with the show heading to Northland, Auckland, the central and lower North Island and taking in a solid chunk of the South Island's main centres. The award winning, hit show is presented by talented professional music duo, Cam and Sam, both born entertainers who love to showcase the Best of Elton John and Billy Joel’s music.The hugely respected and loved music of Elton & Billy is in safe hands! New Zealand's award winning professional music Duo, Cam and Sam, have been successfully honing their piano-craft and music careers for more than two decades. An early love for music and live performance, saw them both in every possible musical ensemble in their formative school years. In their separate musical endeavours, they both have extensive musical backgrounds, forming multiple bands at university and beyond, touring to Australia, Europe, Asia and the USA as well as performing on luxury Cruise Ships. Their extensive touring has taken place alongside recording contracts, TV and commercial radio airplay & NZ chart topping successes.After joining forces in 2016, and discovering they had a shared passion for both live performance and a love of Rocket Man & Piano Man legends, Billy Joel and Sir Elton John, they spent years of preparation and rehearsals, perfecting their craft, resulting in this slick, polished and not to be missed show! ‘Elton John vs. Billy Joel’ is a fitting tribute to their musical heroes Elton John and Billy Joel. Let's face it, Elton and Billy require little introduction, having over 30 Billion Spotify streams combined, their music has provided the soundtrack for generations of loving fans worldwide. Englishman Sir Elton John has sold over 300 million records, while American Billy Joel has sold more than 150 million. These two Piano-Man Maestros are some of the most popular recording artists of all time!Enjoy the perfect night, with all your favourites, including Rocketman, Piano Man, Uptown Girl, Goodbye Yellow Brick Road, Crocodile Rock, She's Got A Way, Tiny Dancer, Don't Let The Sun Go Down on Me, I'm Still Standing, River of Dreams, Tell Her About It, Allentown, We Didn't Start The Fire, You May be Right, It's Still Rock'n'Roll to Me and many more!Cam & Sam’s – ‘Elton John vs Billy Joel’ 2024 National Tour· 15 Mar - The Vic - Devonport Auckland· 16 Mar - The Tuning Fork - Auckland· 22 Mar - Forum North - Whangarei· 23 Mar - Pararoa Brewing Co - Whangapararoa· 03 Apr - Events Centre - Ashburton· 05 & 06 Apr - Mayfair Theatre - Dunedin · 07 Apr - Civic Theatre - Invercargill· 31 May - Opera House - Oamaru · 01 June - James Hay Theatre - Christchurch· 07 June - Lake Wanaka Centre - Wanaka· 08 June - Memorial Centre - Queenstown· 19 & 20 July - Little Theatre - Lower Hutt · 03 August - Globe Theatre - Palmerston North· 09 August - Great Lake Centre - Taupo· 10 August - Sir Howard Morrison Centre - Rotorua· 16 August - Theatre Royal - Nelson · 17 August - ASB Theatre Marlborough - On Sale Soon· 07 September - Wellington Opera House - On Sale Soon· 19 Oct - SkyCity Theatre - Auckland· 25 & 26 October - Clarence St Theatre Hamilton - On Sale Soon· 02 Nov - Te Raukura Ki Kapiti - On Sale SoonTickets - https://camandsam.co.nz/elton-vs-billy-ticketsWebsite - www.camandsam.co.nz | Facebook - @EltonBillyNZTribute

Warkworth RegionFriday 16th February - Fine spells, but isolated showers, mainly this morning. Northeasterlies, easing late.Saturday 17th - Mainly fine, chance of a shower from afternoon. Northerlies developing for a time in the afternoon and evening.Sunday 18th - Partly cloudy, with showers in the afternoon and evening. Light winds.Mangawhai RegionFriday 16th February - Cloudy periods, but chance of a shower until late afternoon. Easterlies.Saturday 17th - A few showers developing in the morning. Northeasterlies, easing in the evening.Sunday 18th - Mostly cloudy, with showers in the afternoon and evening. Light winds.

Inorganic rubbish collection is coming in the next few months for Auckland region. Bookings slot schedule are open and you can book now for your property.Inorganic collections are one of the waste and recycling services funded by the Waste Management Targeted Rate.Each property in Auckland that pays the rate is able to book (without any additional charge) one inorganic collection per year.Collections are scheduled for certain areas at different times of the year. Once the schedule is released, you can find the collection period for your area by looking up your property in the online booking tool.After you've found the collection dates, you can make a booking any time up to eight days before the start of the collection period.To find out more info https://www.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/rubbish-recycling/inorganic-collections/Pages/book-inorganic-collection.aspxTo book your slot for collection: https://inorganiccollections.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/Inorganic/Accepted items for inorganic collectionsOur inorganic collection service is now focused on reuse, recycling and diverting waste from landfills.We can't provide an exhaustive list, but examples of items that are acceptable are:large appliances – empty fridges, freezers, washing machines and ovenssmall appliances – kettles, irons and vacuum cleanersfurniture – beds, couches, chairs, kitchen items and ornamentssporting items – gym equipment, bicycles and toysoutdoor equipment – unassembled trampolines and basketball hoopsoutdoor items – barbecues, garden tools and outdoor furniturerenovation items – carpet, fixtures and fittings, tools, baths and sinks (metal and plastic only)timber – must be less than two metres long and free of exposed nailslawnmowers – with petrol and oil removedelectronics – TVs, computers, phones and DVD players

Miss Candy is a beautiful sweet girl, with gorgeous green eyes. She has a happy spirit and loves gentle pats, cuddles and chats with her humans. If you are a fun loving soul just like Candy, you will adore her inside and out. She loves to play, give cuddles and the best big kisses with a wiggly tail. Candy is a mixed breed with a gorgeous soft coat, long snout and body, her approx date of birth is 15/9/23 so she is 5 months old at the moment. Come meet this playful happy girl for the best puppy cuddles and kisses, she is fostered in Massey. To apply to adopt Candy or if you’d like to help foster a puppy, please head over to http://www.savinghope.co.nz for more information.Miss Cookie is a heart meltingly sweet girl, if you are a gentle soul just like Cookie you will fall in love with her as soon as you meet her. Endearingly shy, Cookie is so gentle, so loving and so soft - in nature and to the touch, with her beautiful coat. Cookie is a mixed breed with a gorgeous long snout and body, her approx date of birth is 15/9/23 so she is 5 months old at the moment. If you’re looking for a gentle pup that will form a beautiful bond with you, Cookie is the one for you. Come meet her for the best of cuddles, she is fostered in Massey. To apply to adopt Cookie or if you’d like to help foster a puppy, please head over to http://www.savinghope.co.nz for more information.

ChargeNet, a prominent player in the electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure, has recently acquired several free charging stations scattered across Auckland. This transition marks a shift from complimentary services to a paid model for users accessing these stations.Formerly under Vector's ownership, eight sites are set to transition to ChargeNet's control on February 19, 2024. Among these, half offer Direct Current (DC) charging, while the remainder provide Alternating Current (AC) options.With this change in ownership comes a new requirement for users: they must register for a ChargeNet account either through the company's website or its smartphone application to initiate charging sessions, if they haven't already done so.The affected charging stations, along with their pricing structure, are listed as follows:Constellation Drive McDonalds, 14-16 Constellation Drive, Rosedale – DC – $0.80/kWhGreenlane McDonalds, 320/356 Great South Road, Greenlane – DC – $0.80/kWhHobson Street Substation, 13 Hobson Street – DC – $0.80/kWhNewmarket Substation, 1 Seccombes Road – DC – $0.80/kWhAuckland Hospital, 2 Park Road, Grafton – AC – $0.40/kWhAryeh (Piha Cafe), 20 Seaview Road, Piha – AC – $0.40/kWhMOTAT, Stadium Road, Western Springs – AC – $0.40/kWhVodafone Events Centre, 770 Great South Road, Wiri – AC – $0.40/kWhThe origin of these charging stations dates back to a trial initiated by Vector in 2015, nearly a decade ago, aimed at understanding EV usage patterns. Over the years, New Zealand's EV fleet has grown significantly, with over 60,000 units added to the roads last year alone. Consequently, Vector deemed it appropriate to transfer ownership of the chargers to ChargeNet, the country's largest charging network.Some EV owners already have ChargeNet accounts linked to their electricity providers through partnerships with Genesis Energy, Electric Kiwi, and Octopus Energy.

The history of Valentine's Day is shrouded in legend and folklore, with multiple stories contributing to its origins. It's roots can be traced back to ancient Roman and Christian traditions.Roman Origins: One popular theory is that Valentine's Day originated from the ancient Roman festival Lupercalia, which was celebrated in mid-February. Lupercalia was a fertility festival dedicated to Faunus, the Roman god of agriculture, and also involved the pairing of women with men through a lottery system. However, this celebration was somewhat chaotic and involved animal sacrifices, and it eventually fell out of favor as Christianity spread.Christian Martyrs: The most widely accepted legend associated with Valentine's Day involves the actions of a Christian saint named Valentinus during the Roman Empire. According to various accounts, there were multiple Christian martyrs named Valentine who lived around the same time. One particular story suggests that a priest named Valentine defied Emperor Claudius II's ban on marriages for young men, as the emperor believed that single men made better soldiers. Valentine continued to perform marriages in secret, but he was eventually caught, imprisoned, and sentenced to death.While in prison, Valentine allegedly sent a letter to a young girl, possibly the jailer's daughter, whom he had befriended. The letter is said to have been signed "from your Valentine," a phrase that is still commonly used in modern Valentine's Day greetings.Establishment of the Feast Day: The Catholic Church recognises at least three different saints named Valentine or Valentinus, and all of them are associated with acts of kindness, love, and sacrifice. Pope Gelasius I officially declared February 14 as St. Valentine's Day around 496 AD to honor these saints. The day was then associated with love and devotion.Chaucer's Influence: The romantic association of Valentine's Day gained further popularity during the Middle Ages. In the 14th century, English poet Geoffrey Chaucer wrote a poem called "Parliament of Fowls," in which he linked the tradition of courtly love with the celebration of St. Valentine's Day. This helped solidify the connection between love and the holiday.Commercialisation and Modern Celebration: Over the centuries, Valentine's Day evolved, and by the 18th century, exchanging handwritten notes, cards, and small gifts became common expressions of affection. The commercialisation of the holiday increased in the 19th century, with the mass production of Valentine's Day cards.Today, Valentine's Day is celebrated worldwide as a day to express love and affection for romantic partners, family, and friends. The traditions vary across cultures, but the common theme remains the celebration of love and connection. 

Kiwi musos and RNZ's resident music experts share their favourite heartbreak tunes and love songs for Valentine's Day.Aaradhna: 'This song knows exactly what a broken heart feels like'Aaradhna is an Indian-Samoan singer, songwriter and producer. Her favourite heartbreak tune is 'How Can you Mend A Broken Heart', sung by Al Green."I chose this song because while there are those that are happy in love, there are also those that are going through heartbreak. This song in particular knows exactly what a broken heart feels like and knows how to bring out my raw emotions every time it's played. From the guitar to the lyrics and especially Al Green's soulful vocals, it's all real and human."Zen Yates-Fill: 'This slice of 70s lowdown soul will seduce even the most cynical'.RNZ Music Programmer Zen Yates-Fill has a soft spot for 'Sweet Thing' by Rufus, featuring Chaka Khan."Turn the lights down low because this slice of 70s lowdown soul will seduce even the most cynical of hearts. A song of unrequited love, Khan endures the emotional spectrum of happiness, pleasure, sadness and pain as her heartfelt plea to her elusive lover goes unanswered."Co-written with Rufus guitarist Tony Maiden, Sweet Thing's distinctive opening riff would later inspire David Bowie's cover of Iggy Pop's China Girl."Ewan Collins: 'This song retains an inescapable sadness'Composer, sound designer and music producer Ewan Collins created the soundtrack to new documentary Red Mole: A Romance, directed by Annie Goldson. Their favourite love song is 'Lionsong' by Björk."To me, this song's strength is that it balances between love and heartbreak, longing for a love that is falling away. The production from Björk and Arca is some of the most emotive electronic writing and sound design I've heard in anything. Despite being energetic and majestic, it retains an inescapable sadness."Claire Cowan: 'I think this is the best love song of all time'There was no equivocating for composer Claire Cowan, who has an impressive range of scoring and composing credits for stage and screen. 'Girl', by The Internet easily topped her list of best love songs."It took 33 years until I heard a song sung by a woman about falling for another woman, and so 'Girl' by The Internet was quite incredible on first listen."In the age-old tradition of mixtapes conveying the things we want to say to the people we're dating, it was the first song on the first mixtape that my then girlfriend (now wife) gave me."I love the gentle swooping synth lines and the 80s bouncy bass, but most of all, the lyrics are SO direct and there's absolutely no second guessing what it's about. I think this is the best love song of all time!"Tony Stamp: 'Buzz Moller's lyrics and lovelorn howl speak for several generations of heartbroken indie music fans''Beth' by Auckland band Voom helped RNZ music producer Tony Stamp get through the unhappy ending of a relationship many years ago - and it still resonates."I was barely out of my teens when I fled Aotearoa for Europe, following a particularly bad breakup. I remember wandering around Florence, Italy, listening to 'Beth' by Voom, thinking, "he really gets it, man", and "New Zealand music is really good"."I recently saw the band perform the song live, some 30 years since its release, and boy does it hold up, the gutting specificity of Buzz Moller's lyrics and lovelorn howl speaking for several generations of heartbroken indie music fans."Muroki: 'This is currently my favourite break-up song'.Kenyan-New Zealand singer/songwriter/musician and producer Muroki chose 'Let Me Go' by Canadian singer-songwriter Daniel Caesar."This is currently my favourite break-up song. I picked it because most songs are written from the perspective of being left, but I like the way Daniel puts you into the other pair of shoes."Whero: 'I'm a sucker for a broken-hearted gal waiata'Whero (Tainui, Ngati Maniapoto, Ngati Raukawa) is an R&B fusion singer/songwriter from Hamilton. She says 'i'm Not The Same' by Aaradhna packs a double punch."I love this song because the simplicity allows the beautifully honest lyrics to just hit you deep in the chest. I'm a sucker for a broken-hearted gal waiata and this one hits all the right spots, especially with the unmatchable quality of Aaradhna's vocals. Even if you've never been heartbroken, you'll know the feeling after listening to this track."Theia / Te Kaahu: 'This is a beautiful song that expresses love from one woman to another'Ōtautahi-born alternative pop musician Em-Haley Walker (Waikato-Tainui, Ngaati Tiipa) chose 'E Hine Ē', which she performs as TE KAAHU, as her special tune."E Hine Ē, which was on TE KAAHU's debut album, is a beautiful song that expresses love from one woman to another. What's special is that whenever I play this waiata live, I like to explain the meaning/sentiment of the lyrics to the audience (particularly those who are non-Māori speaking) and there's always a collective sigh of 'awwwwww' that resonates throughout the room."The first verse essentially says, 'Oh girl, how beautiful you are. With hair like a river that swiftly flows, when you cry, and tears like dew rest on your chest, I will take care of you'.Charlotte Ryan: 'I love this song on so many levels'Music 101 presenter Charlotte Ryan picked an oldie but a goodie - 'I'd Rather Go Blind' by Etta James."I love this song on so many levels; the electric guitar, the old school organ, the backing vocalists. But mostly I love the power of Etta James' voice - and the way she can sing with the pain of a broken heart, "I would rather go blind, than to see you walk away from me"."This story was originally published by RNZ

Update on Footpath Construction and Improvements Kia ora, In December 2023, we informed you of our plans to improve pedestrian safety in Old Woodcocks Road, Kaipara Flats Road and School Road in Warkworth, as part of the wider Rodney Local Board Transport Targeted Rate (RLBTTR).The Old Woodcocks Road works will begin in February 2024 as previously informed.We are writing again to update you about Kaipara Flats Road and School Road due to a change to the construction date and essential additional works like new berm and broken yellow lines as highlighted below.School Road• Extend the existing footpath at the corner of School Road and Kaipara Flats Road by 90 metres.• Install a raised zebra crossing outside 12 School Road to improve the safety of children crossing the road especially during busy hours• Install tactile pavers at the approaches to the crossing. Tactile pavers are yellow guidance paving markers that help the visually impaired find their way to the crossing.• Install signs to inform pedestrians and drivers of the new raised crossing.• Paint broken yellow lines (no stopping at all times) at the Kaipara Flats Road and School Road intersection.• Install a new berm on the stretch of the new footpath at the corner of School Road and Kaipara Flats Road. Kaipara Flats Road• Construct a footpath between 966 Kaipara Flats Road and 988 Kaipara Flats Road.• Install pram crossings with tactile pavers outside 966 and 1 Kaipara Flats Road.• Paint broken yellow lines from 980 to 952 Kaipara Flats Road and 963 to 957 Kaipara Flats Road.Please refer to the plans enclosed for further details on the changes to kerbs and driveways. If our work alters the gradient of a driveway and presents access issues for homeowners, we will carry out any works required at our cost.These works are now scheduled for March 2024 Before construction starts, AT’s contractor will work with each property owner on the construction plan and maintain access requirements.Contact us If you have questions or any information that we need to know, please contact us here: Email: [email protected]