Bad news for chocoholics - their favourite treat is expected to get even more expensive, as global supply chains struggle to meet demand.Earlier this year, Wellington-based family business Whittakers announced it was struggling with increasing costs, resulting in a standard block of chocolate jumping in price by at least a dollar overnight.RaboResearch associate analyst Pia Piggott told Afternoons global factors had been contributing to rising costs in the key ingredients used to make chocolate, partly due to reduced supply of them, and that pattern looked set to continue. So chocolate lovers should brace for the pain in the pocket to continue."We're seeing something particular with chocolate because of the cocoa market," Piggott said. "This past year alone we've seen significant rallies in cocoa - up 27 percent this year, and sugar up 20 percent."Most cocoa is produced in West Africa, and for the past two years they've had really poor growing conditions - a lot of wet weather that's caused rotting and disease from the cocoa trees, and that's left two years of supply deficit - demand is outweighing demand for two years."El Nino weather patterns were also expected to affect global crops."There's expectations that we could see a third year of cocoa supply deficit. So while demand is quite stable and supply is declining, that's going to keep pushing up prices for cocoa," Piggott said.About 50 to 60 percent of most chocolate bars were made up by sugar, she said. But many countries had been producing less and less sugar, and El Nino could mean that trend continued, and there could be a deficit if those weather patterns become severe.While production of ingredients had slowed, demand for chocolate had not, even for luxury producers who had reported rising their costs."Everyone still wants a little bit of indulgence and still wants to enjoy chocolate."Shinkflation could happen down the line, "if these prices are going to continue to stay elevated" Piggott said.Milk, the third of the main ingredients in chocolate, was the only one the forecasts looked favourable for."Last year we had record dairy prices ... but this year it's more normal trading conditions, there's a lot more milk supply in the global market, so that's providing a little bit of relief."Another positive front was that shortages of some fruit and vegetable supplies in New Zealand caused by extreme weather events were beginning to work their way out of the system."In Australia and New Zealand, the wet weather conditions have receded, which is very positive, and we're seeing abundant supplies of some fruit and veges, as well as some acute supply shocks that are still going through the supermarkets."This story was originally published by RNZ

Warkworth RegionFriday 28th July - Fine, apart from the chance of a morning shower. Fresh southerlies, easing around midday.Saturday 29th July - Partly cloudy, chance of a shower. Southwesterlies developing in the morning.Sunday 30th July - Mainly fine, chance of a shower until evening. Southwesterlies, easing in the evening.Mangawhai RegionFriday 28th July - Occasional showers, clearing this morning and becoming fine. Fresh southerlies, easing this afternoon.Saturday 29th July - Mainly fine, chance of a shower until evening. Southwesterlies, easing in the afternoon.Sunday 30th July - Mainly fine, chance of a shower in the afternoon and evening. Southwesterlies developing in the morning.

Venerdi Ltd will be initiating a consumer level recall of specific batches of its Gluten Freedom brand Broken Black Rice & Polenta Sourdough (550g) due to the presence of an undeclared allergen (sesame).People with a sesame allergy should not consume these products. If you have consumed any of these products and have any concerns about your health, seek medical advice.If you are not allergic to sesame this recall does not affect you.Gluten Freedom brand Broken Black Rice & Polenta SourdoughPoint of sale notice for retailersIf you are a retailer of the products in this recall, download a copy of the point of sale notice. You need to display it in your store for one month.Point of sale notice [PDF, 98 KB]Consumer adviceCustomers are asked to check the date marking on the packaging.People with a sesame allergy should not consume these products. If you have consumed any of these products and have any concerns about your health, seek medical advice. If you are not allergic to sesame this recall does not affect you.Customers with a sesame allergy should return the products to their retailer for a full refund.Who to contactIf you have questions, contact Venerdi Limited:Phone: 09 813 5481Address: 33A Cartwright Road, KelstonPO Box 20527, Glen Eden

Mangawhai and Warkworth RegionsStrong Wind WatchPeriod: 12hrs from 1am - 1pm Wednesday, 26 JulArea: Northland south of Kawakawa, Auckland including Great Barrier Island, Coromandel Peninsula and Waikato north of HuntlyForecast: Southwest winds may approach severe gale in exposed places.Marine Gale warningArea: Waitematā Harbour

Share your feedback on the Draft Puhinui Warkworth Town Centre Plan  2023 – 2033What is this plan?The Puhinui Warkworth Town Centre Plan is an urban design plan that is intended to guide the future direction and development of the town centre in Warkworth so that it will meet community needs, care for the river and provide a well-designed, vibrant and attractive place for everybody. It has been developed with extensive community engagement and input from many different parts of the community. We want to make sure that the final version of the Puhinui Warkworth Town Centre Plan does reflect what people in the community and key stakeholders have told us.Here is the PDF of the draft plan.Community themes – what did the community say they wanted?Awa Mahurangi is the heart of the town and the town should be reoriented and connected to it. The river should be healthy, well looked after and safe to swim in.A town that actively cares for the environment and the wellbeing of people.More public spaces for people to meet, eat and connect with each other.Public facilities and services that will enhance community wellbeing and connection.Accessible pathways for getting around town.A town with a nightlife.How to share your feedback:Share your feedback via this online formYou can access paper copies of the Draft Puhinui Warkworth Town Centre Plan at the Warkworth Library and you can also complete a paper feedback form at the library.You can also email any feedback to [email protected] You have until Monday 28 August 2023 to provide feedback.If you have any questions, contact Sue Dodds 021 863326 [email protected]

📢📢📢 SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT!!The Matakana App is changing its name to …Matakana Coast AppWe have grown so much over the last 2 years. We now service Puhoi to Mangawhai and everywhere in between. We wanted to create a more inclusive name so that people know we are more than Matakana, while still giving a salute to our beginnings!We want to highlight your communities – your events, businesses, news, traffic, roads – everything that is important to you!Thank you to our readers, supporters, businesses, and word spreaders! We really appreciate all the people that you tell to download our app and the businesses that get involved.We love our communities far and wide and love Matakana Coast App!Keep reading, keep supporting us and local businesses, keep spreading the word!Kia Ora!

Warkworth RegionMonday 24th July - Partly cloudy, with areas of morning fog. Isolated showers, clearing this afternoon. Southwesterlies developing this morning.Tuesday 25th - Showers, mainly in the afternoon and evening. Southwesterlies, becoming strong in the afternoon.Wednesday 26th - A few showers, clearing to cloudy periods in the evening. Strong southwesterlies.Thursday 27th - Showers developing. Southwesterlies becoming strong.Friday 28th - Fine. Strong southerlies easing.Saturday 29th - Partly cloudy with westerlies.Sunday 30th - Showers. Southerlies.Mangawhai RegionMonday 24th July - Partly cloudy. The odd shower, mainly this afternoon. Westerlies, easing this afternoon.Tuesday 25th - Cloudy periods, with showers in the afternoon and evening. Southwesterlies, becoming fresh for a time in the afternoon and evening.Wednesday 26th - Cloudy periods with a few showers. Strong southwesterlies, easing in the evening.Thursday 27th - Cloud increasing and showers developing. Westerlies, becoming strong.Friday 28th - Fine. Strong southwesterlies easing.Saturday 29th - Cloudy with southwesterlies.Sunday 30th - Showers. Southwesterlies.

Leigh is a small coastal village located in the Rodney District of New Zealand. The history of Leigh can be traced back to the early Maori settlements in the area. The Ngāti Manuhiri iwi (tribal group) has long-standing connections to the region, and their presence dates back many centuries.European settlement in Leigh began in the mid-19th century. In 1855, the government established a land claim process known as the Mahurangi Purchase, which included the area of Leigh. However, it wasn't until the late 19th century that the village started to develop.One of the significant events in Leigh's history is the construction of the Leigh Sawmill in the late 1800s. This sawmill played a crucial role in the local economy and provided employment opportunities for the residents. Timber from the native forests in the region was processed at the sawmill and shipped to Auckland and other locations.In the early 20th century, Leigh became a popular holiday destination for Aucklanders, with its picturesque beaches and natural attractions. Fishing and boating activities also drew visitors to the area.St Michaels and All Angels Anglican Church, Puriri Avenue, Leigh, 1987. Auckland Libraries Heritage Collections 1052-Q04-13In more recent years, Leigh has become known for its marine and ecological research. The Leigh Marine Laboratory, operated by the University of Auckland, is located in the village. The marine laboratory conducts various research projects and provides educational opportunities for students and researchers interested in marine biology and conservation.Today, Leigh continues to be a charming coastal village, attracting tourists with its beautiful coastline, marine reserves, and recreational activities. The village retains its historical charm while offering modern amenities and a relaxed seaside lifestyle.

Warkworth is a town located in the Rodney District of New Zealand's North Island. The area has a rich history that dates back to both Maori settlement and European colonization.Prior to European arrival, the Warkworth region was inhabited by Maori tribes, predominantly the Ngāti Manuhiri and Ngātiwai iwi (tribal groups). The fertile land and proximity to the Mahurangi River made the area attractive for settlement and provided an abundant food supply.European settlement in Warkworth began in the mid-19th century. In 1853, the government established a land claim process known as the Mahurangi Purchase, which included the Warkworth area. This led to an influx of European settlers who started farming and timber milling operations.Warkworth's growth was further facilitated by the completion of the Great North Road in the late 1850s. This road connected Auckland to the northern regions, making transportation and trade easier. As a result, Warkworth became an important stopping point for travellers and a centre for local trade.The timber industry played a significant role in the development of Warkworth. The local forests were extensively logged, and several sawmills were established to process the timber. The timber was then transported via the Mahurangi River to Auckland and other locations, contributing to the growth of the local economy.In the 20th century, Warkworth saw further development and expansion. Infrastructure such as schools, churches, and a railway line were established, enhancing the town's connectivity and services.Today, Warkworth is known for its picturesque riverside setting, historic buildings, and thriving local businesses. It serves as a commercial and service centre for the wider Rodney District and attracts tourists with its natural beauty, wineries, and proximity to popular regional attractions such as the Matakana region and the Tawharanui Regional Park.Warkworth continues to grow and evolve, with ongoing urban development and infrastructure projects to accommodate the increasing population and tourism demands.

Kaiwaka is a small town located in the Kaipara District of New Zealand's North Island. The town has a history closely tied to the surrounding rural and agricultural region.The area that is now Kaiwaka was originally inhabited by Maori tribes, including the Ngāti Whātua iwi. They established settlements along the Kaiwaka River, utilizing the natural resources of the land and engaging in fishing, hunting, and cultivation.European settlement in Kaiwaka began in the mid-19th century. The arrival of European settlers was largely driven by the development of the timber industry in the region. The native forests were extensively logged, and sawmills were established to process the timber. The Kaiwaka River provided a convenient means of transporting the timber to markets.The establishment of a timber milling industry brought economic growth and infrastructure development to the area. The construction of roads, bridges, and the railway line further enhanced accessibility and connectivity. Kaiwaka became a significant centre for the timber industry, attracting workers and businesses to the town.Showing a snapshot of the first train through at the opening of the new section of nine miles, from Te Hana to Kaiwaka, North Auckland Main Trunk Line. Auckland Libraries Heritage Collections AWNS-19130327-15-04As the timber industry declined in the early 20th century, agriculture became a primary economic activity in Kaiwaka and the surrounding region. Dairy farming, sheep farming, and horticulture became the mainstays of the local economy. The fertile soil and favourable climate supported agricultural productivity.Kaiwaka also developed as a service centre for the surrounding farming communities. Businesses and services such as shops, schools, and healthcare facilities were established to cater to the needs of the local population.Today, Kaiwaka continues to be a rural service town, providing essential amenities and services to the surrounding agricultural community. It is a popular stop for travellers passing through the area, with its cafes, shops, and accommodation options.While Kaiwaka may be relatively small, its rich agricultural heritage, historical ties to the timber industry, and importance as a service centre make it a significant part of the Kaipara District's history and present-day fabric.

Mangawhai is a coastal settlement located in the Northland region of New Zealand's North Island. The area has a rich history that encompasses both Maori settlement and European colonization.European settlement in Mangawhai began in the mid-19th century. In 1853, the government established a land claim process known as the Mangawhai Purchase, which included the Mangawhai area. European settlers, primarily farmers and timber millers, were attracted to the region's natural resources and agricultural potential.The timber industry played a significant role in the early development of Mangawhai. The native forests were extensively logged, and sawmills were established to process the timber. The timber was then transported by sea to Auckland and other markets.In the early 20th century, Mangawhai began to establish itself as a popular holiday destination. Its scenic coastline, beautiful beaches, and fishing opportunities attracted visitors from Auckland and other nearby areas. This trend continued, and tourism became an important part of the local economy.In recent years, Mangawhai has experienced significant growth and development. The population has increased, and new residential areas and amenities have been established to accommodate the growing community. The region is known for its lifestyle attractions, including its beaches, surfing spots, and outdoor recreational activities.The Mangawhai Heads area, located at the entrance of the Mangawhai Harbour, is particularly popular among visitors and locals. It offers a range of amenities, such as shops, cafes, and a golf course. The Mangawhai Heads Beach is also a favourite spot for swimming, boating, and fishing.Mangawhai continues to evolve and develop, with ongoing infrastructure projects aimed at improving services and supporting the growing population. Despite its growth, the area retains its natural beauty and relaxed coastal charm, making it an attractive destination for both residents and visitors.

Omaha Beach in Auckland, New Zealand, is a beautiful coastal area located about 60 kilometers north of Auckland City and is situated on the east coast of the Rodney District in the Auckland region.Omaha Beach is renowned for its stunning white sand beach, clear blue waters, and picturesque surroundings. The beach stretches for several kilometers, providing ample space for leisurely walks, sunbathing, picnicking, and various water activities.The beach offers a range of recreational activities for locals and visitors alike. Swimming, surfing, fishing, kayaking, paddle boarding, and boating are popular options in the area. The expansive beach provides plenty of room for beach games and family-friendly activities.Omaha Beach is home to the Omaha Beach Golf Club, an 18-hole golf course that offers scenic views of the ocean and surrounding countryside. Golf enthusiasts can enjoy a round of golf while taking in the natural beauty of the area.Omaha Beach is also a residential community with a mix of permanent residents and holiday homes. The area features a combination of modern beach houses, holiday rentals, and a few local amenities.Omaha Beach's proximity to other attractions in the Rodney District makes it an ideal base for exploring the wider area. Tawharanui Regional Park, with its walking trails and beautiful beaches, is located nearby. The Matakana region, known for its vineyards, farmers' markets, and boutique shops, is also within a short drive from Omaha Beach.Omaha Beach offers a serene coastal escape with its natural beauty, outdoor activities, and proximity to other attractions. It is a popular destination for beach lovers, water enthusiasts, and those seeking a relaxing coastal retreat.

The history of Matakana dates back to the early Maori settlements in the area. The region was originally inhabited by the Ngāti Manuhiri and Ngātiwai iwi, who established their villages along the Matakana River and utilized the rich natural resources of the land and sea.European settlement in Matakana began in the mid-19th century. In 1853, the government established a land claim process known as the Mahurangi Purchase, which included the Matakana region. This led to European settlers arriving in the area and establishing farms, timber milling operations, and other enterprises.The fertile soils of Matakana were well-suited for agriculture, and farming became a significant economic activity in the region. Crops such as wheat, maize, and vegetables were cultivated, and dairy farming also became prominent.Additionally the timber industry played a significant role in Matakana's early development. Native forests were logged, and sawmills were established to process the timber for construction and export. The Matakana River provided a means of transporting the timber to Auckland and other markets. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Matakana saw further development with the construction of roads and bridges, which improved connectivity to other parts of the region. This facilitated the growth of trade and commerce, with Matakana becoming a hub for local produce and goods.Over time, Matakana's proximity to Auckland and its natural beauty made it a popular holiday destination. The region's picturesque countryside, stunning coastline, and local attractions such as beaches and regional parks drew visitors from the city and other areas.In recent years, Matakana has experienced significant growth and transformation. The area has seen the establishment of vineyards, wineries, and artisanal food producers, contributing to a thriving local food and wine scene. The Matakana Village has also developed into a vibrant hub, with boutique shops, galleries, cafes, and a popular farmers' market.Matakana continues to evolve as a sought-after destination for tourists and a desirable place to live. Its rich history, natural beauty, and thriving local businesses make it a unique and vibrant part of the Rodney District and the wider Auckland region.

Wellsford is a town located in the Rodney District of New Zealand's North Island. The town has a relatively short history compared to some other settlements in the region.European settlement in the Wellsford area began in the late 19th century. The establishment of the railway line between Auckland and Whangarei in the 1870s played a significant role in the development of Wellsford. The railway line passed through the area, and a railway station was built, which contributed to the town's growth as a transportation hub and commercial centre.Work at the present railhead: The big cutting just beyond Wellsford Station. Auckland Libraries Heritage Collections AWNS-19080924-07-01Construction Of The North Auckland Railway. Auckland Libraries Heritage Collections AWNS-19100526-03-01The town was named after the Wells family, who were early European settlers in the area. Initially, Wellsford served as a service town for the surrounding farming communities. Agriculture, particularly dairy farming, and sheep farming was a primary economic activity in the region.Wellsford's strategic location at the crossroads of State Highway 1, which connects Auckland and Northland, and State Highway 16, which leads west towards Helensville and the west coast, further enhanced its significance as a transportation hub. The town became a stopping point for travellers and truckers, and various businesses, including shops, hotels, and other services, catered to their needs.Dome Valley road blocked near Wellsford : copies of the New Zealand Herald being ferried over the floodwaters. Auckland Libraries Heritage Collections AWNS-19350731-40-05A growing North Auckland township mid-way on the main highway journey from Whangarei to Auckland. Auckland Libraries Heritage Collections AWNS-19390222-45-05Over time, Wellsford has experienced periods of growth and development, particularly with the expansion of infrastructure and services. Schools, healthcare facilities, and other amenities were established to serve the growing population.Today, Wellsford remains an important service centre for the surrounding rural communities. The town offers a range of amenities, including shops, supermarkets, cafes, and recreational facilities. It continues to serve as a stopping point for travellers passing through the area.Wellsford War Memorial Library, 2015. Auckland Libraries Heritage Collections 3003-1165Wellsford's proximity to the Kaipara Harbour and nearby natural attractions, such as regional parks and forests, also make it a gateway to outdoor recreational activities and tourism opportunities.While Wellsford may not have a long history compared to some other towns in the region, its strategic location and role as a service centre have contributed to its ongoing development and importance within the Rodney District.

The Rodney region is in the northern part of the Auckland metropolitan. It encompasses a large area of land, including Matakana, Wellsford, and other smaller towns and rural areas. The history of the Rodney region is rich and varied, with a significant Māori presence followed by European settlement and development.Prior to European settlement, the area was inhabited by Māori tribes, particularly the Ngāti Whātua, who had lived in the region for many generations. They had established settlements and cultivations in the area, utilizing the land and resources for sustenance and trade.European exploration and contact began in the late 18th century. Captain James Cook visited the region in 1769 during his first voyage to New Zealand, and other European explorers followed. The first European settlers arrived in the early 19th century, primarily establishing mission stations and trading posts along the coast.The signing of the Treaty of Waitangi in 1840 between the British Crown and Māori chiefs led to increased European immigration and the establishment of British governance in New Zealand. Land disputes between Māori and European settlers became common, resulting in conflicts and the confiscation of Māori land. The region saw its fair share of these disputes, including the infamous "Battle of Ruapekapeka" in 1846, which took place near modern-day Wellsford.Throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries, the Rodney region experienced slow but steady development. The construction of roads and railways facilitated transportation and trade, and small towns and settlements began to grow. Agriculture, particularly dairy farming, became a significant industry, and timber milling also played a role in the region's economy.In the mid-20th century, with the growth of Auckland and improved transportation infrastructure, the Rodney region experienced increased suburbanisation. Many people began to settle in the region's coastal areas, attracted by the lifestyle and proximity to the city.Aerial view of Orewa beach and township. Auckland Libraries Heritage Collections R0002In 1989, the Auckland region underwent significant local government restructuring, and the Rodney District Council was established. This provided more localised governance and decision-making for the region. However, in 2010, the Rodney District was merged with other areas to form the Auckland Council, creating a unified governance structure for the entire Auckland region.Today, the Rodney region is a mix of rural and suburban areas, with a strong focus on lifestyle and natural beauty. It is known for its stunning coastlines, regional parks, and vineyards. The area continues to experience growth and development, with ongoing efforts to balance urban expansion with environmental preservation and the protection of its unique character. 

The gender gap on KiwiSaver balances has grown, with men having on average 25 percent more money in their KiwiSaver balance at the end of last year.The KiwiSaver gender gap increased 5 percent in a year, according to new research from the Retirement Commission.The commission studied more than three million KiwiSaver members, with the research representing approximately 94 percent of the total member base.An age breakdown of the research participants showed the gender gap in every age group category widened, but larger gaps opened in younger age groups.The gap for 18-25 year olds increased 7 percent, to 23 percent and the gap for 31-35 year olds widened 8 percent, to 27 percent.Te Ara Ahunga Ora director of policy and research Dr Suzy Morrissey said the research showed some of the challenges women faced when trying to grow their KiwiSaver balances."Analysis of the widening gap does not appear to be explained by fund choice, withdrawal, or suspension behaviour of women compared to men," she said."The widening of the gap at younger ages is particularly concerning because of compounding interest."Money invested earlier will have time to grow, but if women's balances are lower than men's in younger life, they will likely remain lower."For the first time, the research compared member balances across age and gender by fund type, finding more than a third of all funds under management were assets invested in growth funds, although this allocation decreased with age.Men had more assets invested in growth funds, while women had more assets invested in conservative funds, Morrissey said."This difference is smaller at younger ages and more pronounced for those nearing age 65, and over 65."Analysis suggests that women are not necessarily more risk averse, as both men and women tend to be invested in lower risk funds if they have small balances and have more growth assets if they have larger balances."Women's lower balances (on average) may lead them to be less risk-seeking."Morrissey said the widest gaps of average balances were still between men and women in their 40s and 50s, which likely reflected the combined impact of the gender pay gap, time out of paid work, and the higher percentage of women than men who work part-time.This story was first published by RNZ

Jemima Huston, reporterA scene examination has continued at the site at the bottom of Queen Street on Friday in an unusually quiet city, still in shock after Thursday's terrifying events.Police say the two people killed in the Auckland CBD shootings were men in their 40s. Post-mortems are expected to be completed in the coming days, and the police say their priority is the men's formal identification.In a statement this evening, Detective Superintendent Ross McKay said the victims' bodies had been removed from the scene, as well as the gunman."Poor weather conditions across the Auckland region impacted progress today, adding to the complexities of the scene being a large multi-storey building site," McKay said.A cordon remains in place around the immediate vicinity of the site and a scene guard will be in place overnight.Police have been in touch with the victims' familes and they were also being offered Victim Support services, he said.Police were also appealing to the public to submit any relevant photos or CCTV footage which could be loaded here.Anyone with any information was also being asked to contact police on 105 or via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.A few people wandering through downtown Auckland on Friday morning peered upwards, pointing at the construction site where the fatal shooting took place.Angela Aitchison approached a police officer at the entrance to the site with a bunch of flowers in hand.She is a freight worker for STL Line Haul.Her company works closely with LT McGuinness, the construction firm whose teams were on site during the shooting."They are part of our STL Line Haul family. We deliver freight to them, not just to this site but to a lot of other sites around Auckland."We've got a lot of sympathy for them and want to give condolences to the families."So that's basically what those flowers are for, LT McGuinness, the workers and the families that lost those two lives yesterday unnecessarily."Aitchson is glad she was not working in the city yesterday."It's unlucky for the people that actually were involved but I am lucky I wasn't here delivering freight at the time."I would have been exactly the same as everyone else here, scared and I would have probably run for my life."Flowers laid outside the barriers of the construction site today. Photo: RNZ/ Charlotte CookPolice have confirmed the two people killed by the shooter were men in their 40s who worked alongside the gunman at the construction site.One injured police officer remains in hospital and another is recovering at home.Three other people are still in hospital with injuries that are not life threatening, and two have been discharged.Tepapakahurangi Toatahi had been working at the construction site when the shooting happened."I was just doing some construction work for the company I work for and all we heard was gunshots."It was pretty scary."Toatahi has been given a few days off to recover but he is not sure if he wants to return to work and is considering moving home to Northland."I'm pretty scared to come back here because I'm worried it might happen again."Anything can happen in Auckland city, it's strange."Shops in the area opened on Friday with workers and the few shoppers passing through exchanging reckons about the news from yesterday.Carmen works in the Hollywood Bakery opposite Commercial Bay, which was in lockdown during the shooting."Suddenly, a lot of the police came here and they were armed with big guns."We were scared and the police asked us to stay inside, not go out and close our door."She said the situation was frightening but she was pleased the bakery had reopened today.Police in central Auckland on Friday morning. Photo: RNZ / Charlotte CookAuckland Chamber of Commerce chief executive Simon Bridges said disruption to downtown Auckland businesses had been minimal.Businesses were happy with the response by police and emergency services and how quickly shops were able to reopen, he said."By the middle of the day shops were back running, our workers were back working and able to go about their business pretty freely."In transport terms, possibly there was a bit more congestion but fundamentally Auckland showed that it could stand up to this and get the wheels of commerce going effectively again."Bridges said it was an awful day for Tāmaki Makaurau that many people never saw coming.Local iwi Ngāti Whatua is planning to undertake a karakia process on the construction site before workers are able to re-enter the building.This story was originally published by RNZ

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 28 July 2023.Unless otherwise stated, closures start at 9pm and finish at 5am.NORTHERN MOTORWAY (SH1)Southbound lanes between Silverdale off-ramp and Oteha Valley Road on-ramp, 23-25 JulySilverdale southbound on-ramp, 23-25 JulyConstellation Drive southbound on-ramp, 23-27 JulyStafford Road northbound off-ramp, 23 July (approx. 9:30pm to 5:00am)Curran Street northbound on-ramp, 27 July (approx. 9:30pm to 5:00am)SOUTHERN MOTORWAY (SH1)Northbound lanes between Manukau off-ramp and Puhinui Road on-ramp, 23 July (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)SH1 southbound to SH20 northbound link, 23 July (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)SH1 northbound to SH20 northbound link, 23 July (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)Redoubt Road southbound on-ramp, 23 JulySouthbound lanes between Takanini off-ramp and Drury on-ramp, 27 JulyTakanini southbound on-ramp, 27 JulyPapakura southbound off-ramp, 28 JulySouthbound lanes between Papakura off-ramp and Drury on-ramp, 23 & 25 JulyPapakura southbound on-ramp, 23-29 July (24/7)Southbound lanes between Papakura off-ramp and Drury on-ramp, 24 July (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)Southbound lanes between Papakura off-ramp and Drury on-ramp, 26 July (approx. 11:00pm to 5:00am)Northbound lanes between Ramarama off-ramp and Drury on-ramp, 24-27 JulyRamarama northbound on-ramp, 24-27 JulyNorthbound lanes between Te Kauwhata off-ramp and Hampton Downs on-ramp, 23 July (approx. 8:00pm to 5:00am)Te Kauwhata northbound on-ramp, 23 July (approx. 8:00pm to 5:00am)NORTHWESTERN MOTORWAY (SH16)Lincoln Road northbound on-ramp, 24 JulyLincoln Road northbound off-ramp, 23 & 25-27 JulyUPPER HARBOUR MOTORWAY (SH18)Westbound lanes between Greenhithe Road off-ramp and Tauhinu Road on-ramp, 27 July (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)Tauhinu Road westbound on-ramp, 24 JulyEastbound lanes between Tauhinu Road off-ramp and Greenhithe Road on-ramp, 27 July (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)Tauhinu Road eastbound off-ramp, 27 JulySquadron Drive eastbound on-ramp, 27 JulyEastbound lanes between Brigham Creek Road off-ramp and Brigham Creek Road on-ramp, 27 July (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)Brigham Creek Road eastbound on-ramp, 24-25 & 27 July (approx. 8:00pm to 5:00am)Eastbound lanes between Brigham Creek Road off-ramp and Squadron Road on-ramp, 23 JulyBrigham Creek Road eastbound on-ramp, 23 JulySOUTHWESTERN MOTORWAY (SH20)Southbound lanes between Hillsborough Road off-ramp and Neilson Street on-ramp, 27 July (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)Hillsborough Road southbound on-ramp, 27 JulyQueenstown Road southbound on-ramp, 27 JulySouthbound lanes between Rimu Road off-ramp and Massey Road on-ramp, 26 JulyWalmsley Road southbound on-ramp, 26 JulySH20 southbound to SH20A westbound link, 26 JulySouthbound lanes between Massey Road off-ramp and Puhinui Road on-ramp, 25 July (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)Massey Road northbound off-ramp, 27 JulyMassey Road southbound on-ramp, 25 & 27 JulySouthbound lanes between Puhinui Road off-ramp and Manukau on-ramp, 24 July (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)Puhinui Road southbound on-ramp, 24 JulySouthbound Service Road (Puhinui Road to Cavendish Drive), 24 JulyCavendish Drive southbound on-ramp, 24 JulyNorthbound Service Road (Cavendish Drive to Puhinui Road), 23-24 JulyCavendish Drive northbound on-ramp, 23-24 JulyLambie Drive northbound on-ramp, 23 JulyLambie Drive southbound on-ramp, 24 JulySH20 southbound to SH1 northbound link, 24 July (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)SH20 southbound to SH1 southbound link, 24 July (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)

Delphine Herbert, senior reporterPolice are still trying to identify the two victims shot dead when a gunman opened fire at an Auckland construction site.Ten other people were injured and six of them, including two police officers, are in hospital after 24-year-old Matu Reid went on a shooting spree on Thursday morning at the Commercial Bay building site where he worked.Police will not say if an officer shot him or if he killed himself and have not yet explained the motive for the attack.One worker was in the high rise building at Number 1 Queen Street and hid with his colleagues when Matu Reid came up to where they were and then walked past.He said Reid seemed to be looking for a particular person."All I knew is to run. He was so close to me. Had he shot, I would have lost my life. I didn't think much, but just ran. He didn't shoot at us. I felt lucky."Local man Lochlan thinks the city is getting more dangerous.''It's unnerving because it does feel like crime is getting worse in New Zealand, I don't know if it's just because it's being reported on more, but it feels like there are a lot more attacks happening, ram-raids, there is now this."It feels like crime is getting worse and worse," he said.A union for some of the immigrant workers in the building said their members were terrified.First Union general secretary Dennis Maga said they could not believe what had happened.''They've been saying to us that they thought New Zealand was a safe country and they never thought that they would experience this kind of incident, especially because we are in the middle of a FIFA competition."They're hoping that this is an isolated, one-off incident."A union representing some of the immigrant workers in the building said the workers needed trauma counselling. Photo: RNZ / Felix WaltonHe said the workers needed trauma counselling."We've been asking employers that they should be providing some mental health and trauma care to these workers."Especially if they are not familiar with how the system works. There should be information out there, including from the New Zealand police."Matu Reid had been working on the construction site while he was on home detention as punishment for violently attacking his partner.He was being monitored with an electronic bracelet, was doing an anti-violence programme and had reported to his probation officer the day before.The Corrections Department said he was being closely managed but was now investigating if there was anything that could be done to stop such a tragedy happening again.Police are also looking into how Reid illegally got his pump action shot gun.Questions are also being raised about why Reid was allowed home detention in the first place.Lawyer Adam Simperingham from the Criminal Bar Association said it was clear something had gone very wrong."It certainly seems like there has been some sort of oversight in the process of assessing this man for home detention" he said.Home detention was still a useful - and very common - sentence, Simperingham said.He said if anything, the attack was more evidence of the country's rising gun crime.''What I think this is symptomatic of is an increased use of firearms and offending in New Zealand. It sounds like it is particularly bad in Auckland, or has been in the last couple of years."Police at a cordon on Lower Albert Street in n Auckland'S CBD on Thursday following the shooting Photo: RNZ / Marika KhabaziPolice said they had spoken to more than 70 witnesses.The building site remains under guard as a crime scene and it is not clear when it will re-open.This story was originally published by RNZ