Police are seeking the public’s assistance in locating an offender in connection to a kidnapping that has unfolded in recent weeks.Enquiries have been underway since a missing person’s report was first made to Police on Tuesday 27 June.Detective Senior Sergeant Nick Poland, Waitematā CIB, says the initial report raised concerns and an investigation was commenced. The victim’s safety has been front of mind for the investigation team throughout.“Our enquiries have since established the victim was taken by a group of offenders from an address in Birkenhead on Wednesday 12 June. “We believe she was then transported to an address in West Auckland where she has been subjected to numerous assaults, before being taken to Northland,” says Detective Senior Sergeant Poland. Meanwhile, Police across the Waitematā and Northland Districts have conducting enquires to locate the victim and executed several search warrants in relation to this investigation last week. On 6 July, the woman escaped from a vehicle parked in Tikipunga, Whangārei, and sought help from a nearby ambulance.“The victim received medical attention for her injuries. While these were not life threatening, she has been subjected to a horrific ordeal,” Detective Senior Sergeant Poland says.Further search warrants were executed at two addresses in Whangārei on Thursday last week and a scene examination continued on Friday 7 June, where a firearm was located at one of the addresses. Enquires are continuing to hold those responsible for this offending to account for their actions.Police acknowledge this is a confronting incident and members of the public will understandably be feeling concerned by what has occurred, however Police do not believe this was a random incident.“Support is in place for the victim however we must stress the importance of her safety – and as such we are not in a position to release further details around her identity at this stage,” says Detective Senior Sergeant Poland. “We ask media who already have details to please consider the impact this has had on her and her family.” 𝗛𝗔𝗩𝗘 𝗬𝗢𝗨 𝗦𝗘𝗘𝗡 𝗖𝗔𝗥𝗟𝗢𝗦 𝗛𝗔𝗥𝗥𝗜𝗦?Police are seeking the whereabouts of 33-year-old Carlos Harris, who has a warrant for his arrest in relation to this matter.He also goes by the name of ‘C-Los Duzit’. Harris is a patched member of the Nomads Gang and he should not be approached – anyone who sights him should contact 111 immediately. He has distinctive tattoos on both his head and cheeks.We would like to remind the public that anyone harbouring this offender may also face charges.Anyone with further information about this matter or the location of Harris is asked to contact Police via our 105 phone service or online at https://www.police.govt.nz/use-105, using Update My Report.Please reference file number 230628/4378. Information can also be provided anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.As the investigation is ongoing, Police cannot rule out further arrests or charges.

More businesses added to the App under SHOP LOCAL - MatakanaCheck them out - support local!🥩 Matakana Village Butchery - Being a traditional, family-owned Village Butchery they not only provide the best quality meat at an honest price, but they also endeavour to get to know the locals and cater to their individual needs. 🍫 Swiss Bliss Handcrafted Chocolates & Fine Baking - Handcrafted organic chocolates and baking. They specialise in gluten free, dairy free and vegan products. Order direct from their website, their Waitoki store or at the Matakana Farmers Market on Saturdays.🏡 Floorwise offers ceramic tiles from Tile Space as seen on the Block TV show. They also offer a full range of top quality carpets, timber laminates, Vinyl from Belgotex, Bremworth, Victoria, Floorscape, Signature. Plus many more with best price matched guaranteed. Situated right in the heart of Matakana.✈ The Private Travel Company - Cindy Bakewell specialises in;Luxury EscapesCruisingGroups HolidaysRiver CruisingAdventure HolidaysCelebrationsNew Zealand HolidaysIsland EscapesCustom Adventures🥑Supie - the online supermarkets mission is creating a better and fairer grocery alternative for New Zealand. They are now delivering in the Rodney area. Try them out today.📱 If you want your business to be on the App get in [email protected] or Contact

Hundreds of bus trips in Auckland have been axed this morning and the union says its industrial action may be repeated throughout the week.Drivers employed by bus operator NZ Bus went on strike at 4am and were due to resume work again at 8am.NZ Bus is one of seven operators providing bus services on behalf of Auckland Transport.The drivers want a higher hourly rate to bring them in line with their counterparts in Wellington, Christchurch and Dunedin.The New Zealand Tramways and Public Transport Union is one of two unions representing them.National president Gary Froggatt said drivers had not had a pay increase from NZ Bus for over 10 years. All they had received was cost of living increases.A formula had been given to the company to enable drivers to be paid $30 an hour.Drivers were being paid $26.76 at present, and have been offered an increase to $28 with a $30 rate to take effect next year.Froggatt said the union's formula would increase the hourly rate faster - with quarterly pay rises.⛽ Visitng or a local to Leigh and need an honest mechanic or petrol? Then head to Leigh Motors and GAS Leigh 🧰👨🏻‍🔧The union had asked for immediate mediation from last Thursday, and decided to take strike action today because the company had not agreed to that request.He defended the drivers taking industrial action at such short notice, saying the union only had to give 24 hours notice.Asked how likely it was the mediation would result in a deal, he said: "I'm always optimistic but I can't give any guarantees."If there was no deal today, there might be more stoppages for the rest of the week, he said."If we reach settlement today, then we will call off any further action."It was school holidays so school bus services would not be affected, however, the union did not want to see children and teens wandering the streets in search of public transport, he said."If we reach settlement today, then we will call off any further action" - NZ Tramways and Public Transport Union president Gary Froggatt AT 'optimistic' for settlementAuckland Transport public transport services general manager Stacey van der Putten said thousands of commuters would have had their services disrupted, however, it was one operator affected out of the seven used by AT.For the morning peak it was likely the industrial action would have hit 7 - 8 percent of the city's bus services.It was disappointing the action had been taken and AT had tried to ensure its Journey Planner and website were up-to-date so disruption was minimised."Both parties are very motivated to get this resolved ... so we are hopeful for a positive outcome and we'll be talking to our operator to understand how things eventuate today."AT took the view that all public transport bus drivers across Auckland should be paid $30 an hour by the end of the year.Each operator had different pay structures but "on average those rates will be met within what they have proposed or above [$30]"."Both parties are very motivated to get this resolved" - Auckland Transport public transport services general manager Stacey van der Putten This story was originally published by RNZ

Warkworth RegionMonday 10th July - Scattered showers. SouthwesterliesTuesday 11th July - Mainly fine, the odd shower until evening. Fresh southwesterlies.Wednesday 12th July - Mainly fine, chance of a shower until evening. Fresh westerlies.Thursday 13th - Fine, then a few showers developing. Westerlies, becoming strong.Friday 14th - Showers, clearing and becoming fine. Southwesterlies.Saturday 15th - Fine. Southwesterlies.Sunday 16th - Partly cloudy with westerlies.Mangawhai RegionMonday 10th July - A few showers, more frequent and possibly heavy and thundery this afternoon. Westerlies.Tuesday 11th July - Mainly fine, chance of a shower until evening. Fresh westerlies, easing in the evening.Wednesday 12th July - Mainly fine, chance of a shower until evening. Westerlies, becoming fresh for a time in the afternoon and evening.Thursday 13th - Fine. Westerlies, becoming fresh.Friday 14th - Fine with southwesterlies.Saturday 15th - Fine with southwesterlies.Sunday 16th - Partly cloudy with westerlies.

If you arent already familiar with where your nearest AED (Automatic External Defibrillator) are located then get informed!An AED can increase someone's chance of survival by up to 80% if applied immediately. AED's literally SAVE LIVES.You can download the App to help you quickly locate the nearest AED to your current location, in New Zealand. This is very handy if you are travelling or out of town.If you prefer not to download to your device they also have a website.Matakana App also has a link on our App here.What does the app do?This app helps you to quickly locate the nearest AED (Automatic External Defibrillator) to your current location, in New Zealand. You are able to browse the AED location on the map, search for AED locations by name or address and get location details, contact information and open hours. The information within the app acknowledges that this app does not indicate an absolute right to use the AED, does not indicate the AED is available for use 24/7, does not indicate the AED is in full working order and does not guarantee the location is geographically correct.FeaturesLocates the nearest AED (Automatic external defibrillator)AED's are searchable by locationNZ appGet the app:(external link)(external link)(external link) A note from the the App designer It's a community effort - We aim to keep the information as up-to-date and accurate as possible. However we can't guarantee that all AEDs will be accessible, in full working order, or still in the same location. AED Locations relies on the community, so if you notice out-of-date information, please contact us or add a new location.

Biosecurity New Zealand is planning immediate actions after the find of small patches of exotic Caulerpa seaweed in an area close to Te Kawau Tūmaro ō Toi Kawau Island in the Tāmaki Auckland region, says director of response services John Walsh."We’ve talked to the Ngāti Manuhiri Settlement Trust, and the Auckland Council today and will meet with them next week. With their agreement, we plan to begin some control work as soon as possible as well as further surveillance in the area," says Mr Walsh."Ngāti Manuhiri Settlement Trust is committed to protecting our rohe moana and putting all efforts to remove and eradicate the invasive pest from our beautiful waters," says Ngāti Manuhiri Settlement Trust's chief executive Nicola MacDonald.Mr Walsh says Biosecurity New Zealand is considering the use of chlorine pellets beneath tarpaulins, as is currently being tested in the Bay of Islands by Northland Regional Council, or suction dredging to remove the seaweed."Divers found small 20 centimetre to 30 centimetre patches of the seaweed in the North Channel, north-west of Kawau. Finding exotic Caulerpa in another area of Tāmaki is disappointing but not unexpected given the nature of the seaweed."Caulerpa can easily be spread to new locations as it’s commonly caught up as tiny pieces of seaweed on vessel anchors and fishing gear."For the past 2 years, we’ve been working with partners, including mana whenua, local authorities and communities to address exotic Caulerpa at Aotea Great Barrier Island, Ahuahu Great Mercury Island and, most recently, in Te Rāwhiti Inlet in the Bay of Islands."This has been a sustained, thorough and collaborative effort to contain Caulerpa to known locations, better understand the pest and its challenges, trialling treatments, and working to prevent its spread."This includes legal controls on risk activities and widespread campaigns involving local communities, mana whenua, regional councils and others to educate people about Caulerpa."Mr Walsh says work continues on exploring and trialling treatment methods. Aside from immediate work in the Kawau Island area, new in-water treatment trials will start in the Bay of Islands, Aotea and Ahuahu from July and will run through to the early summer period."People in those areas want Caulerpa eliminated. This will be very challenging given the many hectares of Caulerpa involved, but these trials are geared towards that."We are supporting the Ngāti Manuhiri Settlement Trust, mana whenua and mandated iwi authority, to bring experts from California to Aotearoa New Zealand early next month to provide first-hand insights about using suction dredge techniques to remove Caulerpa.And we’ve also set up another expert technical advisory group to revisit the latest information on this suction technique.”Mr Walsh says exotic Caulerpa is challenging to deal with."Internationally, Caulerpa has not been successfully eradicated from areas the size of the finds in New Zealand, and climate change and warming oceans also present a tough biosecurity challenge for everyone."All marine users can play a part in preventing the spread of exotic Caulerpa. We’re asking people to be vigilant by keeping boats and other aquatic equipment clean to reduce the risk of introducing or spreading any exotic seaweeds."Check your gear, especially anchors and chains. If you see any seaweed on your equipment, chuck it straight back in the waters it came from."And if you think you've seen exotic Caulerpa, note the location, take a photo and report it to Biosecurity New Zealand on 0800 80 99 66 or online at report.mpi.govt.nz "Find out more about the seaweedExotic Caulerpa seaweeds at Great Barrier, Great Mercury, Kawau Island, and Bay of Islands (Te Rāwhiti inlet)

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, 14 July 2023.  Unless otherwise stated, closures start at 9pm and finish at 5am.NORTHERN MOTORWAY (SH1)Southbound lanes between Orewa off-ramp and Silverdale on-ramp, 9-10 July (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)Orewa southbound on-ramp, 9-10 JulyMillwater southbound on-ramp, 9-10 JulyOteha Valley Road southbound on-ramp, 11 JulyOnewa Road northbound off-ramp, 11 July (approx. 9:30pm to 5:00am)Onewa Road northbound on-ramp, 12 JulyOnewa Road southbound on-ramp, 12 JulyStafford Road northbound off-ramp, 11 July (approx. 9:30pm to 5:00am)Shelly Beach Road southbound off-ramp, 12 July (approx. 10:30pm to 5:00am)Curran Street northbound on-ramp, 11 JulyCENTRAL MOTORWAY JUNCTION (CMJ)Fanshawe Street southbound off-ramp, 12 July (approx. 10:30pm to 5:00am)Southbound lanes between Fanshawe Street off-ramp and Greenlane on-ramp, 10-11 July (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)SH1 southbound to SH16 westbound link, 10-11 July (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)SH1 southbound to SH16 eastbound (Port) link, 10-11 July (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)Hobson Street southbound on-ramp, 10-11 JulySH16 eastbound to SH1 southbound link, 10-11 July (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)Symonds Street southbound on-ramp, 10-11 JulyWestbound lanes between Stanley Street off-ramp and Wellesley Street East on-ramp, 10-11 July (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)SH16 (Port) westbound to SH1 southbound link, 10-11 July (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)Grafton Road southbound on-ramp, 10-11 JulySOUTHERN MOTORWAY (SH1)Khyber Pass Road southbound on-ramp, 10-11 JulySt Marks Road southbound on-ramp, 10-11 JulySouthbound lanes between Greenlane off-ramp and Mt Wellington Highway on-ramp, 9 July (approx. 11:00pm to 5:00am)Greenlane southbound on-ramp, 9 July (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)Tecoma Street southbound on-ramp, 9 July (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)Ellerslie-Panmure Highway southbound on-ramp, 9 July (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)Northbound lanes between Papakura off-ramp and Takanini on-ramp, 10 JulyPapakura (Diamond) northbound on-ramp, 10 JulyPapakura (Loop) northbound on-ramp, 10 JulyPapakura southbound off-ramp, 12 JulyPapakura southbound on-ramp, 7-15 July (24/7)Southbound lanes between Mercer off-ramp and Mercer on-ramp, 9-10 July (approx. 11:00pm to 5:00am)Northbound lanes between Mercer off-ramp and Mercer on-ramp, 9-10 July (approx. 11:00pm to 5:00am)NORTHWESTERN MOTORWAY (SH16)Lincoln Road southbound off-ramp, 9-11 July (approx. 8:00pm to 5:00am)Lincoln Road northbound on-ramp, 11-12 JulyNorthbound lanes between Great North Road off-ramp and Patiki Road on-ramp, 9 July (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)Rosebank Road northbound off-ramp, 9 July (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)Great North Road northbound on-ramp, 9 JulySH16 eastbound to SH20 southbound link (Waterview Southbound Tunnel closed), 10 JulyGreat North Road eastbound off-ramp (Waterview Southbound Tunnel closed), 10 JulySH16 westbound to SH20 southbound link (Waterview Southbound Tunnel closed), 10 JulyGreat North Road westbound off-ramp, 11-12 July (approx. 9:00pm to 6:00am)UPPER HARBOUR MOTORWAY (SH18)Tauhinu Road westbound on-ramp, 10 JulySquadron Drive westbound off-ramp, 10 JulySOUTHWESTERN MOTORWAY (SH20)Southbound lanes between Massey Road off-ramp and Puhinui Road on-ramp, 10 July (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)Massey Road southbound on-ramp, 10 July

Event Name: Matariki Matakana Village Farmers’ MarketDate and time: Saturday 15th July 8am–1pmJoin us for the Matariki Matakana Village Farmers' Market! Here's what you can look forward to: Kapa Haka Performances: Experience the power and beauty of traditional Māori song and dance by our local primary schools. Starting at 10am with Matakana School, followed by Snells Beach School.Fire Cooking Demonstration: Watch as renowned chef Mark Lever showcases the art of cooking kai over an open fire. Be inspired as he shares his culinary expertise and mouth-watering creations with onlookers. Don't miss this opportunity to learn some fire cooking secrets!Face Painting: Let your imagination soar with our delightful face painting station.Traditional Māori Flax Weaving (Raranga): Watch live or join in and learn along the way as skilled weavers create food baskets (kono) from flax, discovering the beauty and intricacy of Māori weaving traditions. Musician Lana Fia: Enjoy the enchanting melodies of musician Lana Fia as she fills the air with soulful tunes. Let her music transport you to a place of joy and connection, adding a harmonious soundtrack to your Matariki experience.Te Reo Coco at the Cinema: Celebrate the spirit of Matariki with a special screening of Te Reo Māori version of Disney's beloved film, Coco. Immerse yourself in the magic of this Oscar-winning animation, reimagined in Te Reo Māori. For session times, see https://www.matakanacinemas.co.nz/ Save the date and join us for a day of delicious food, music and community spirit at the Matariki Matakana Village Farmers' Market.For event details Matariki Matakana Village Farmers’ Market

Friday 7th JulyLeigh Sawmill Happy Hour FridayLive Music Friday Nights at Matakana Village PubFiji Fridays at SmithsSaturday 8th JulyMatakana Village Farmers MarketMangawhai Community MarketMangawhai Tavern MarketTwig & Bloom - Flower Arranging For TeensRoller Disco - Snell's BeachBeef + Lamb Ambassador Series Tasting Menu Dinner at Plume RestaurantMatariki BallMixed Messages Saturdays at SmithsSunday 9th JulySnells Shoreline - Community Planting MorningSunday Service at SmithsKintsugi Workshop with Ema Frost (10.30-12.30pm)Kintsugi Workshop with Ema Frost (2-4pm)Monday 10th JulyMatariki Family FunTuesday 11th JulyHave a Go Music Experience with KBB MusicRock 'n' Roll beginner classesWednesday 12th JulyCircus Kumarani Kids Fun Day & Youth & Adult WorkshopsAstronomy Night Quiz Night at Matakana Village PubLive Music at Warkworth HotelThursday 13th JulyLeigh Sawmill 2 for 1 pizza night at Leigh SawmillBarrel Works Quiz Night

Warkworth RegionFriday 7th July - Mainly fine, but periods of rain arriving this morning, chance heavy this evening. Northeasterlies, strong for a time this afternoon and evening.Saturday 8th July - Scattered showers, becoming widespread for a time in the afternoon. Northwesterlies, becoming fresh for a time in the afternoon and evening.Sunday 9th July - Partly cloudy with isolated showers. Southwesterlies, becoming fresh in the morning.Mangawhai RegionFriday 7th July - Mostly cloudy. Rain for a time this morning, then easing isolated showers with fine spells this afternoon. Northerlies, strong at times.Saturday 8th July - Occasional showers, mainly in the west and north. Northerlies, turning to fresh westerlies in the morning.Sunday 9th July - Showers, mainly in the west. Fresh westerlies.

We plan to build three new raised platforms to reinforce the recent speed limit changes in the Waipu Cove area. A traffic speed survey has confirmed that more than 90% of drivers are not complying with the new speed limits in this area. Raised platforms will not only lower the speed of cars but also improve pedestrian connectivity and safety when crossing this busy road. The new raised crossings will connect local walkways and the existing footpath near the Cove Restaurant.Stop / go traffic control will be in place during the construction work which is expected to be undertaken later in 2023.History of the project2017 – Community requested a pedestrian crossing at Waipu Cove and measures to reduce speed and increase pedestrian safety.2019 – Community requested a pedestrian crossing at Waipu Cove be added to the Long-Term Plan.2020 – Project was added to the 2021-24 Long Term Plan and was consulted on with the community and then voted on by Council.April 2023 – Concerns were raised about the need for the works to go ahead. Council voted again on the project in May 2023 and confirmed that the project is to go ahead.Scope for FeedbackSome decisions about this project are flexible and can be changed, while others have already been made and cannot be changed. Can changeThe position of the pedestrian crossing has been discussed with the owners on either side of the road. We have a preferred location, but it could be shifted depending on the feedback we receive. The location of the raised tables either side of the pedestrian crossing could change slightly.The extent of the car parking on the sides of the road.The layout of the car park beside the beach.DecidedThe construction of a pedestrian crossing at Waipu Cove. The need for the pedestrian crossing to be on a raised table - this is a safety design requirement. Traffic speed has to be 30-40 km/h in advance of a crossing. For more information To give feedbackPlease email us by Monday 10 July 2023.Email:  [email protected] 

After a long closure, Mangawhai Toy Library are very excited and grateful to have obtained a grant from Mangawhai Opportunity Factory and have secured a cabin to be placed on site. They wish to thank Mangawhai Engineering and Marine Ltd for organising this.They are looking for volunteers to help with a few things before they can be completely operational again.Arborist to remove 1x palm tree (before 17 July)A ranch slider or sliding doorSomeone to install a ranch slider Electrician to install a PowerPoint and light (cabin is currently frame only, unlined).Bats or wall insulationGIBAnyone that would like to be part of the Toy Library committee. Please contact them directly 020 4196 [email protected]://www.facebook.com/MangawhaiToyLibrary They wish to thank everyone who has helped out so far. It’s going to be a real asset to have this up and running in our community again.

From 21 May, Auckland’s buses will welcome large dogs with leads and approved muzzles on board.This follows the (p)awesome success of the first Pets on Buses trial – smaller pets in carriers. Small domestic pets in approved carriers are now allowed on Auckland Transport (AT) buses permanently.Larger dogs that do not fit in approved carriers can start travelling on Auckland buses from 21 May. Initially, this will be for an eight week trial. AT will consider making the change permanent if the trial is successful.Councillor Josephine Bartley is excited that Auckland is becoming a more pet-friendly city.🐾 For all your doggie outfit needs head to Mr Soft Top 🐶“Changes like this make catching public transport an option for more people."I’d like to acknowledge the hard work of Dr Cathy Casey for pushing for changes like this over her many years as a Councillor.“I’m definitely looking forward to taking my dog Milo on the bus soon,” says Councillor Bartley.Councillor Bartley and MiloAT’s Improvement Delivery Lead, Luke Clarke, says the enthusiastic response to pets on buses shows that Aucklanders want more options when travelling.“This trial reflects our commitment to make public transport easier and more accessible for all Aucklanders.“We’re excited to see larger four-legged passengers joining their owners on our buses,” says Mr Clarke.Currently large dogs are allowed on Auckland trains and ferries with an approved muzzle and lead. Small domestic pets are permitted on trains, buses and ferries when enclosed in an approved carrier.AT’s Improvement Delivery Lead, Luke Clarke, says the enthusiastic response to pets on buses shows that Aucklanders want more options when travelling.“This trial reflects our commitment to make public transport easier and more accessible for all Aucklanders.“We’re excited to see larger four-legged passengers joining their owners on our buses,” says Mr Clarke.Currently large dogs are allowed on Auckland trains and ferries with an approved muzzle and lead. Small domestic pets are permitted on trains, buses and ferries when enclosed in an approved carrier.

Science teachers are shocked that an advance version of the draft school science curriculum contains no mention of physics, chemistry or biology.The so-called "fast draft" said science would be taught through four contexts - the Earth system, biodiversity, food, energy and water, and infectious diseases.It was sent to just a few teachers for their feedback ahead of its release for consultation next month, but some were so worried by the content they leaked it to their peers.Teachers who had seen the document told RNZ they had grave concerns about it. It was embarrassing, and would lead to "appalling" declines in student achievement, they said.One said the focus on four specific topics was likely to leave pupils bored with science by the time they reached secondary school.But another teacher told RNZ the document presented a "massive challenge" to teachers and the critics were over-reacting."It's the difference from what's existed before and the lack of content is what's scaring people. It's fear of the unknown," he said.Association of Science Educators president Doug Walker said he was shocked when he saw a copy.Doug Walker. Photo: Supplied / Prime Minister's Science Prizes"Certainly in its current state I would be extremely concerned with that being our guiding document as educators in Aotearoa. The lack of physics, chemistry, Earth and space science, I was very surprised by that," he said.New Zealand Institute of Physics education council chairman David Housden said physics teachers were not happy either."We were shocked. I think that physics and chemistry are fundamental sciences and we would expect to find a broad curriculum with elements of it from space all the way down to tiny particles," he said.Institute president Joachim Brand said he was worried teenagers would finish school without learning fundamental knowledge about things like energy and matter.He warned the draft was heavy on philosophy and light on actual science."There is too little science content. Science needs to be learned by actually doing it to some degree. You need to be exposed to the ideas of how maybe atoms work, how electricity works, how electric forces and if that is not specified and you're only given these broad contexts, then I'm really worried there will be huge gaps," he said.Brand said if the draft went ahead, fewer students would specialise in science and universities might find themselves forced to teach basic science to new students.Secondary Chemistry Educators New Zealand co-chairperson Murray Thompson said after he read the document he was left asking where the science was."The stuff in there is really interesting, but we have to teach basic science first. Where's the physics and chemistry and why can't we find words like force and motion and elements and particles, why aren't those words in there?"It's the same mistake that they made with maths and literacy. They said 'here's the system, here's the way' and the maths was all about problem-solving and written problems and all that stuff without the basic skills," Thompson said.Michael Johnston from the New Zealand Initiative blew the whistle on the draft document after it was leaked to him.He said if the curriculum did not change a lot would depend on the content of the achievement standards used to assess students for the NCEA qualification."It would be a very strange situation where the standards for NCEA didn't reflect the curriculum but if they did still have those key concepts, then those key concepts would obviously be taught. The assessment system will trump the curriculum every time if there's some kind of conflict," he said.Walker said schools could still teach physics and chemistry if the draft became final, but it should not be left to chance."The problem is that some educators would look at the document and say, 'Okay, I can do this, this and this' and you might plan your course around that, but then not do justice to all of these other really important areas," he said.🚸 For after school and school holiday programs contact Matakids Club 👭Holistic approachBut one of the curriculum writers, director of the Wilf Malcolm Institute of Educational Research at the University of Waikato Cathy Buntting, rubbished suggestions key areas physics and chemistry would not be taught."Absolutely not. But they will be teaching the chemistry and the physics that you need to engage with - the big issues of our time - and in order to engage with the excitement of science and the possibilities that science offers," she said.However, Buntting said the document was intended to encourage change."What we are pushing towards with the current fast draft is more of a holistic approach to how the different science concepts interact with each other rather than a purist, siloed approach."Buntting said the draft was very high-level, as were curriculum documents for other subjects but it was clear it needed more clarity about where teachers should expect to teach various science concepts.The Ministry of Education said it was still finalising the draft document."We are currently in the process of completing the draft science content based on feedback from fast testing, as well as being guided by national and international research such as PISA (Programme for International Student Assessment)."We will then go out for wider sector and public feedback from August to late October this year, with a full draft, and sufficient time for people to give us feedback," it said.This story was originaly published by RNZ

The squeeze on household and business finances has got tighter with the numbers behind in their repayments rising to the highest level in four years, according to credit reporting firm Centrix.Its latest monthly report shows 426,000 people behind in their payments, up from 411,000 in April. That represents 11.7 percent of active consumer borrowers, and is the highest since March 2019.The level of mortgage arrears increased to 1.3 percent, the highest since 2020, with rises also for buy-now-pay-later, consumer, auto, and unsecured personal loans.Centrix managing director Keith McLaughlin said hopes that April's decline showed households getting on top of debts and coping with higher interest rates had been dashed, and the latest numbers showed economic realities."Some Kiwi households and businesses are walking an economic tightrope," he said. "While homeowners contend with rising mortgage interest rates and the financial squeeze, business owners are grappling with downturned activity and spending."He said the rise in arrears for unsecured loans to 10 percent pointed to consumers borrowing just to make ends meet in the face of rising costs.Overall, credit arrears were 4 percent higher than a year ago.McLaughlin said debt pressures were also building for the business sector, with credit defaults up for most industries, notably 22 percent on a year ago for the property and rental sector, and around 16 percent for construction, retail, and hospitality."It's no secret a recession was the Reserve Bank's goal to help curb spending. What remains to be seen is how the rest of 2023 plays out for consumers and businesses on the front line."Credit demand was mixed with a 27 percent fall in mortgage lending on a year ago, tracking the decline in the property market, but there was an increase in other consumer lending, especially vehicle loans.The number of business liquidations dipped slightly on April, but compared to a year ago were 35 percent higher, which McLaughlin said reflected a tougher attitude to tax arrears by Inland Revenue and a decline in personal spending which was pressuring cashflow.

Kaipara Libraries is expanding their range on BorrowBox and saying “haere rā” / “goodbye” to ePlatform. ePlatform will no longer be available from 01 July 2023. The ePlatform range will be now available through BorrowBox, meaning a more streamlined experience for users.  Kaipara Libraries offers a wide range of eBooks, eAudiobooks, eGraphics, eMagazines, and eNewspapers across three platforms; Libby, BorrowBox and PressReader. Getting connected is easy: Download Libby, Borrowbox and PressReader off the app store/playstore  Search for Kaipara Libraries  Enter your library card number and 4-digit pin  If you need to reset your pin number, or support to connect to these apps, give the Kaipara Libraries team a call on 0800 532 542 or head to your closest Kaipara Library during open hours. Find out more about Kaipara Libraries' digital offerings on their website. 🔨🔨 For all kinds of residential building work contact CHR Residential Builders

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, 7 July 2023.Unless otherwise stated, closures start at 9pm and finish at 5am.NORTHERN MOTORWAY (SH1)Northbound lanes between Silverdale off-ramp and Orewa on-ramp, 2 July (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)Silverdale northbound on-ramp, 2 JulySouthbound lanes between Oteha Valley Road off-ramp and Greville Road on-ramp, 4-6 JulyOteha Valley Road southbound on-ramp, 4-6 JulyNorthbound lanes between Greville Road off-ramp and Oteha Valley Road on-ramp, 3 July (approx. 9:30pm to 5:00am)Greville Road northbound on-ramp, 3 JulyTristram Avenue southbound off-ramp, 2 JulySOUTHERN MOTORWAY (SH1)Southbound lanes between Greenlane off-ramp and Mt Wellington Highway on-ramp, 6 July (approx. 11:00pm to 5:00am)Greenlane southbound on-ramp, 6 July (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)Tecoma Street southbound on-ramp, 6 July (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)Ellerslie-Panmure Highway southbound on-ramp, 6 July (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)Southbound lanes between Mt Wellington Highway off-ramp and East Tamaki Road on-ramp, 4-5 July (approx. 10:00pm to 10:00pm)Mt Wellington Highway southbound on-ramp, 4-5 JulyPrinces Street southbound on-ramp, 4-5 JulyHighbrook Drive southbound on-ramp, 4-5 JulySouthbound lanes between Takanini off-ramp and Drury/SH22 on-ramp, 6 JulyTakanini southbound on-ramp, 6 JulyPapakura southbound on-ramp, 30 June & 1-8 July (24/7)Northbound lanes between Papakura off-ramp and Takanini on-ramp, 6 JulyPapakura (Diamond) northbound on-ramp, 6 JulyPapakura (Loop) northbound on-ramp, 6 JulySouthbound lanes between Mercer off-ramp and Mercer on-ramp, 3-4 July (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)Northbound lanes between Mercer off-ramp and Mercer on-ramp, 3-4 July (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)Hampton Downs southbound off-ramp, 2 July (approx. 8:00pm to 12midnight)Hampton Downs southbound off-ramp, 3 & 5 July (approx. 8:00pm to 5:00am)Hampton Downs southbound on-ramp, 2 July (approx. 8:00pm to 12midnight)Hampton Downs southbound on-ramp, 3 & 5 July (approx. 8:00pm to 5:00am)Hampton Downs northbound on-ramp, 2 July (approx. 11:30pm to 5:00am)Hampton Downs northbound on-ramp, 4 & 6 July (approx. 8:00pm to 5:00am)Hampton Downs northbound off-ramp, 2 July (approx. 11:30pm to 5:00am)Hampton Downs northbound off-ramp, 4 & 6 July (approx. 8:00pm to 5:00am)Southbound lanes between Te Kauwhata off-ramp and Te Kauwhata on-ramp, 2 July (approx. 8:00pm to 5:00am)Northbound lanes between Rangiriri off-ramp and Te Kauwhata on-ramp, 3-4 July (approx. 8:00pm to 5:00am)NORTHWESTERN MOTORWAY (SH16)Northbound lanes between Hobsonville Road off-ramp and Brigham Creek Road Roundabout, 3 JulySH16 northbound to SH18 eastbound link, 3 JulyLincoln Road northbound off-ramp, 2 JulyLincoln Road northbound on-ramp, 3-6 JulyTe Atatu northbound off-ramp, 3 JulyGreat North Road westbound off-ramp, 2-6 July (approx. 9:00pm to 6:00am)St Lukes Road eastbound off-ramp,4-5 July (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)Eastbound lanes between St Lukes Road off-ramp and SH1/SH16 links, 6 July (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)St Lukes Road eastbound on-ramp, 6 JulySH16 eastbound to SH1 northbound link, 6 July (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)SH16 eastbound to SH1 southbound link, 6 July (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)SH16 eastbound to SH16 (Port) eastbound link, 6 July (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)UPPER HARBOUR MOTORWAY (SH18)Eastbound lanes between Tauhinu Road off-ramp and Albany Highway on-ramp, 2 July (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)Westbound lanes between Greenhithe Road off-ramp and Tauhinu Road on-ramp, 2 July (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)Greenhithe Road eastbound on-ramp, 2 JulySquadron Drive eastbound on-ramp, 2 JulyEastbound lanes between Hobsonville Road off-ramp and Squadron Drive on-ramp, 3 JulyHobsonville Road eastbound on-ramp, 3 JulyTrig Road eastbound on-ramp, 3 JulyBrigham Creek Road eastbound on-ramp, 3 JulySOUTHWESTERN MOTORWAY (SH20)Southbound lanes between SH20/SH20A links and Kirkbride Road on-ramp, 2-4 JulySH20 southbound to SH20A southbound link, 2-4 JulySH20 northbound to SH20A southbound link, 2-4 JulyMassey Road northbound on-ramp, 5 JulyMassey Road southbound on-ramp, 6 JulyMassey Road northbound off-ramp, 6 JulyGEORGE BOLT MEMORIAL DRIVE (SH20A)Northbound lanes between Kirkbride Road off-ramp and SH20 link, 2-4 JulySH20A northbound to SH20 northbound link, 2-4 JulyKirkbride Road northbound on-ramp, 2-4 July

Warkworth RegionMonday 3rd July - Partly cloudy. A few showers, more frequent and possibly heavy for a while in the afternoon. Strong southwesterlies, gale in exposed places gusting 90 km/h in the afternoon and evening.Strong Wind WatchPeriod: 6hrs from 3pm - 9pm Mon, 3 JulArea: Northland, Auckland, Great Barrier Island, Waikato, Waitomo, Coromandel Peninsula and Bay of Plenty west of WhakataneForecast: West to southwest winds may approach severe gale in exposed places.Tuesday 4th July - Mainly fine, isolated showers in the afternoon and evening. Strong southwesterlies.Wednesday 5th July - Partly cloudy, with isolated showers clearing early. Strong southwesterlies, easing in the afternoon.Thursday 6th July - Cloudy, clearing and becoming fine. Southwesterlies, easing.Friday 7th July - Mostly cloudy, with isolated showers becoming widespread, some heavy. Northeasterlies, becoming fresh.Saturday 8th July - Showers, some heavy, becoming isolated with longer fine breaks later. Northerlies, turning to fresh westerlies.Sunday 9th July - Showers with westerlies.Mangawhai RegionMonday 3rd July - Partly cloudy. Showers, more frequent and possibly heavy this afternoon. Strong southwesterlies, gale gusting 90 km/h in the afternoon and evening. Strong Wind WatchPeriod: 6hrs from 3pm - 9pm Mon, 3 JulArea: Northland, Auckland, Great Barrier Island, Waikato, Waitomo, Coromandel Peninsula and Bay of Plenty west of WhakataneForecast: West to southwest winds may approach severe gale in exposed places.Tuesday 4th July - Fine. Fresh southwesterlies.Wednesday 5th July - Partly cloudy. Fresh westerlies, easing.Thursday 6th July - Cloud clearing and becoming fine. Southwesterlies, easing.Friday 7th July - Rain. Northeasterlies.Saturday 8th July - Rain, clearing and becoming fine. Westerlies.Sunday 9th July - Showers with westerlies.

Five young people spent the night on the roof or in its cavity at a youth justice facility in Auckland.The standoff began on Saturday at Korowai Manaaki Youth Justice Residence in Wiri.On Sunday morning, Oranga Tamariki deputy chief executive Mike Bush said the five people spent the night on the roof or within its cavity."We will provide a further [update] when the matter changes."Police and Fire and Emergency were called to assist with the standoff which saw six people on the roof as of 9pm last night.On Saturday, Bush said he was on site and staff were dealing with the incident."Our priority is the safety of these young people and we are managing this situation with extreme caution, especially with the wet weather forecast overnight."We are practising safe and reasonable negotiation tactics and working to deescalate the situation."The young people are within the boundary of the facility and there is no risk to public safety."Stuff reported the youths were armed with pipes and bits of metal.It comes a week after several youth escaped from a youth justice facility in Canterbury and spent the night in its roof cavity.This story was originally published by Radio New Zealand Youth spend the night on roof of Auckland justice facility | RNZ News