It’s more important than ever that residents speak up and let Rodney Local Board members know if the three-year plan, just released for consultation, is right for their community.The board has prepared a draft plan that will guide local board decision-making in Rodney over the next three years on things like parks and playgrounds, community funding and group support, as well as events and programmes.Now board members want to hear from residents and are asking them to fill out the simple online form at akhaveyoursay.govt.nz/localboardplans by 14 August.Chair Brent Bailey says this consultation becomes even more important as communities and the council grapple with the aftermath of extreme weather events, council’s financial pressures and an economic recession.“We face many challenges, including the devastating impact of this year’s extreme weather events, as we enter some of the most difficult financial years we have ever experienced.“Everyone knows that council budgets are tight, and about the impact of council’s tough financial situation on local board budgets.“Some of our communities are really struggling, and we know that conditions have changed a lot since our last plan was developed.“We hope that through the proposals in this plan, we can support residents to recover, adapt and grow stronger together.”The plan reflects community aspirations and needs which are included in five key areas – people, community, environment, places and transport. Key objectives and the initiatives that the board wants to see delivered are listed under each area.Bailey says the plan also guides local investment and advocacy for what local communities need.“We know about the priorities that residents have raised with board members which are important for community life but are not decisions for the local board to make.“Our commitment to you is to advocate on your behalf for these important outcomes which are outlined throughout the plan.“We hope this plan will be your plan as much as ours and that you will talk to your local board members and tell us if we have got it right.”Ways to have your sayThere are a range of ways that Rodney residents can have their say, whether it’s submitting a form online or attending an event.For those who value in-person events and want to present to board members, there are hearing style events taking place in Kumeū and Warkworth. Each submitter has 10 minutes to present and board members may ask questions for clarification. To book your slot, please email [email protected] Kumeū event takes place on Wednesday 26 July, 4pm-6pm at the Kumeū meeting room, Kumeū Library and Council Services, 296 Main Road, Huapai.The Warkworth event takes place on Wednesday 9 August, 4pm- 6pm at the Rodney Local Board Office, 3 Elizabeth Street, Warkworth.Another way to give feedback and view the plan, is online at akhaveyoursay.co.nz/localboardplans website. Here people can download and read a copy of the 2023 Draft Upper Rodney Local Board Plan and fill out a simple online form.The plan can also be viewed at a local library, and people can pick up a submission form.Feedback must be received before consultation closes at 4pm on Monday 14 August.

Food prices have spiked back to 36-year highs, driven by surging vegetable costs.Prices rose 1.6 percent in June on the month before, the biggest monthly rise since the start of the year.Fruit and vegetables rose 8.1 percent for June, though after seasonal adjustment the rise was 2 percent, Stats NZ said."Prices for fruit and vegetables such as tomatoes, capsicums, and lettuce contributed the most to the overall monthly rise," consumer prices manager James Mitchell said.There were small rises for meat, groceries, and restaurant and takeaway meals.Annual food inflation picked up to 12.5 percent, equalling April's rate and the highest since 1987 when GST was brought in.For the year ended June fruit and vegetable prices were up 22 percent, notably kūmara and potatoes which were affected by bad weather, while eggs and some dairy products helped push grocery prices 12.8 percent higher."Increasing prices for fresh eggs, six-pack yoghurt, and cheddar cheese were the largest drivers within grocery food," Mitchell said.Restaurant meals and ready-to-eat food prices increased 9.2 percent, meat, poultry, and fish prices were up 11 percent and non-alcoholic beverage prices rose 9.7 percent.This story was originally posted by Radio New Zealand Food prices spike to 36-year highs, up 1.6% percent in June on month before | RNZ News

Drivers for NZ Bus in Auckland will today find out what their employer's newest offer looks like, after six hours of emergency talks on Friday.The First Union's bus driver members have rejected a pay offer of $31 an hour, rising to $33.20 from next April.Bus drivers belonging to First Union had earlier said they would start giving passengers fare-free travel, and would do so for a whole week, after refusing the company's latest pay offer.On Thursday night, NZ Bus responded by announcing all its services in Tāmaki Makaurau would instead be cancelled.After that it was announced that the strike notice had been withdrawn and emergency talks scheduled. Auckland Transport later confirmed that all bus services would run as normal on Friday.Union delegates and the company held emergency talks for about six hours on Friday.Further industrial action by drivers has been withdrawn for now and the union says it has a new offer for drivers to consider.First Union organiser Hayley Courtney said NZ Bus was more willing to co-operate with drivers at the emergency meeting."We felt happy that it was more productive than what it has been in past negotiations, they engaged with us more and we had AT sitting at the table as well and helping facilitate it."So I think all in all it was a more positive day and we have come out with a better outcome."Courtney said members would be able to voice their thoughts on the new offer at a union meeting next week."We will be going for an all-up meeting with the union members on Wednesday, after Wednesday we will know more on how the members, the wider membership are feeling with the offer the company has made."On 10 and 11 July, NZ Bus drivers in Auckland went on strike from 4am until 8am leading to hundreds of bus trips being cancelled.NZ Bus operates around 35 percent of Auckland's bus routes.This story was originally posted on Radio New Zealand Union says latest meeting with NZ Bus over Auckland drivers' pay had 'better outcome' | RNZ News

Matariki Friday 14th JulySchool Holidays at Sculptureum Elevate your yoga practice this Matariki season!Hangi For MatarikiMatariki Yoga Kirtan Weekend RetreatWinter Wine Show at Matakana EstateLeigh Sawmill Happy HourLive Music Friday Nights @ Matakana Village PubFiji Fridays at SmithsTIKI TANNE - ONE MAN BAND SHOWMatariki Saturday 15th JulyMatariki Matakana Village Farmers’ MarketMangawhai Community MarketMangawhai Tavern MarketResilient Living - Fermentation WorkshopTakatu Landcare Planting DayJuly Mandarin Wine BlendingMahurangi Winter Festival of LightsLive Music with Caroline LekstromMatariki Yoga Kirtan Weekend RetreatAll Blacks versus South AfricaMixed Messages Saturdays at SmithsTIKI TANNE - ONE MAN BAND SHOWSplintA - Live Music Matariki Sunday 16th JulyMatariki Yoga Kirtan Weekend RetreatSunday Service at Smiths

What is Matariki?Matariki is a time for remembrance, celebrating the present and looking to the future. Matariki Hunga NuiRemembranceHonouring those we have lost since the last rising of Matariki. Matariki Ahunga NuiCelebrating the PresentGathering together to give thanks for what we have. Matariki Manako NuiLooking to the FutureLooking forward to the promise of a new year. Matariki is a small cluster of stars also known as the Pleiades. In Aotearoa New Zealand it comes into view low on the north-eastern horizon, in the tail of the Milky Way, just before midwinter. This heralds the Māori New Year and the changing of the seasons. The appearance of Matariki brings a time of remembrance, joy and peace. It’s a time for  communities to come together and celebrate.Iwi celebrate Matariki at different times, some when the cluster is first seen in the dawn sky, others after the full moon rises or at the beginning of the next new moon.For some iwi, the star cluster includes seven stars, while for others it has nine. For all iwi, the importance of Matariki is expressed through proverbs and songs linking it with the bright star Whanui (Vega). Ka puta Matariki. Ka rere Whanui. Ko te tohu o te tau e!Matariki reappears. Whanui starts it flight. Begin the sign of the (new) year! What does Matariki mean for Māori?Traditionally, Matariki was seen as a time to honour the dead, show respect to the land and cultivate the ground for growing crops in the coming year. Early Māori relied on Matariki to predict the success of the next harvest - the brighter the star cluster seemed, the better the growing season was predicted to be.However, today Matariki has been revived as a celebration of people, culture, language, spirituality and history. It is a time for whanau and friends to come together and reflect on the past year and look towards the year ahead.Translated, Matariki means the ‘eyes of god’ or ‘little eyes’. According to one Māori legend, when Ranginui, the sky father, and Papatūānuku the earth mother were separated by their children the god of the winds,Tāwhirimātea, became angry and tore out his eyes and threw them into the heavens.One story goes that Matariki (the mother) and her six daughters journey across the sky each year to visit their great grandmother, Papatūānuku, to share knowledge and learn new skills to prepare for the year to come.Nga Whetū o MatarikiEach star holds a certain significance over our wellbeing and environment as seen from the Maori view of the world. Matariki is the star that signifies reflection, hope or connection to the environment, our health and wellbeing, and the gathering of people.Pōhutukawa is the star connected to those that have passed on.Tupu-ā-rangi is connected with everything that grows up in the trees: fruits, berries and birdsTupu-ā-nuku is the star connected with everything that grows within the soil to be harvested or gathered for food.Waitī is connected with all freshwater bodies and the food sources that are sustained by those waters.Waitā is associated with the ocean and food sources within it.Waipuna-ā-Rangi is connected with the rain.Ururangi is the star connected with the winds.Hiwa-i-te-rangi is the star connected with granting our wishes and realising our aspirations for the coming year.Waiata o MatarikiThere are many waiata (songs) that acknowledge and honour Matariki but this song is a beautiful song that encompasses the purpose of Matariki and a Ngāti Manuhiri kaumatua once said that he thinks of all his old people, all of those that shared mātauranga (indigenous knowledge) with him over his time.This version only acknowledges the 7 stars but there is an updated version that has all 9.How to spot MatarikiTo spot Matariki when its visible, look low on the horizon in the northeast of the sky; it's easier to spot pre-dawn, between 5:30am and 6:30am.Look for what you probably know as Orion's Belt or the bottom of 'the pot' and follow the three stars across the sky to the left until you find Matariki.It's a small and tight cluster, not as big and showy as you might be expecting, but once you know what you're looking for you will see it more easily and grow to appreciate its charms.References:Ngāti Manuhiri Settlement TrustProfessor Rangi MatamuaRereata Makiha

Warkworth RegionFriday 14th Matariki - Partly cloudy. A few showers, frequent for a time this afternoon. Fresh southwesterlies.Saturday 15th - Partly cloudy, with isolated showers clearing in the evening. Fresh southwesterlies, easing in the evening.Sunday 16th - Mainly fine, isolated showers developing early. Fresh westerlies.Mangawhai RegionFriday 14th Matariki - Partly cloudy with the odd shower. Westerlies.Saturday 15th - Fine. Fresh southwesterlies, easing in the afternoon.Sunday 16th - Partly cloudy, chance of a shower in the afternoon and evening. Westerlies, becoming fresh for a time in the afternoon and evening.

For details on the Mahurangi Winter Festival of Lights eventsPress Release from Murray Chapman for the Mahurangi Winter Festival of Lights Artwork LaunchMahurangi Winter Festival of Lights launches a new public artwork for Warkworth.This year the Mahurangi Winter Festival of Lights opening night will be extra special. The Saturday 15th July event will combine the exciting lighting and family friendly activities the festival is renowned for with the launch of a new, permanent public artwork by Ngāti Manuhiri artist Hokimai-anahera Rosieur (Ngāti Manuhiri, Ngāpuhi and Te Aupōuri)The Mahurangi Winter Festival of Lights and Auckland Council Public Art Team have been working together since 2019 to develop a large-scale artwork in the Warkworth Wharf area. The site is a popular daytime attraction and was chosen as an opportunity to activate Warkworth for businesses and the community for up to 3 hours each night.Located in a thin strip of native bush (ngahere) opposite the town wharf, the artwork uses 35 programmable led lights and 8 speakers to express the genesis story of Mahurangi and the enduring presence of Ngāti Manuhiri, mana whenua of Mahurangi.The new artwork is the first to be delivered in the Rodney region under the Auckland Council public artwork programme, which creates public art across the Auckland Region.The permanent, lighting artwork along the river is being installed by Davco Electrical, a well-known Warkworth business with legacy support from the Mahurangi Winter Festival of Lights.This year, the festival will run between 11am and 9pm on Sat 15th July and will include food trucks, live music, rides and amusements for the whole family. One of the highlights of the event is the annual Parade of Lights which will start at 6pm, beginning from the Paperplus carpark, travelling along Queen St, and down through the wharf area. At the parade’s conclusion the first public activation of the amazing new artwork will take place along the river.Q&AWhat is the artwork? A large-scale light and sound-based artwork telling the story of Mahurangi through the eyes of mana whenua (Ngāti Manuhiri).Where is it located?Wharf St, Warkworth, best viewed from the boardwalk/ wharf.When can I see it?At the Mahurangi Winter Festival of Lights, 15 July and from sunset every night afterwards (playing 3hrs winter and 2 hrs summer).  Who is the artist?Hokimai-anahera Rosieur (Ngāti Manuhiri, Ngāpuhi & Te Aupōuri).How is the project funded?The artwork was funded from Auckland Council Public Art Regional budget. Any further questions contact the organisers: [email protected] https://www.mahulightfestival.nz/

In Hawke's Bay, food trading platform Magic Beans is doing its best to combat the rising cost of food and interpersonal disconnection in some communities.It has been going strong on social media for the past seven years, providing a space for people to swap or donate their homegrown fruit and veggies, or even trade a wheelbarrow of compost for some gardening advice.Magic Beans has 5000 local members and its co-founders hope a new app will take it nationwide.Clare Plug has lived in her house in Maraenui for more than 40 years and her garden is teaming with life - from a huge fejoa tree, to salad greens, chillies, apples and mandarins, and plenty of birds.At times she said she found herself with more fruit and vegetables than she knew what to do with, and thinks she has harvested 100 kilograms from one mandarin tree.Meanwhile on supermarket shelves, food prices were on the rise."I saw a man in the supermarket the other day," Plug said. "He had a little tray of chillies and a bunch of coriander and some greens, and I felt like saying, 'Do you want to come to my place'?"Until now, Magic Beans members have been able to connect on Facebook and on the website.Sarah Grant is the co-founder of Magic Beans. Photo: RNZ / Kate GreenBusiness co-founder Sarah Grant said the new app would open up the platform to communities all around the country, and eventually, the globe.It was free to join and use but a subscription version would also give access to a resource library with location-based planting guides and tips, Grant said.She stressed people did not need have a huge garden or be an expert gardener to join - in fact, many beginners found the community to be a huge help getting their gardens thriving.It helped people to build a community, share and find information about what grew best in their area, while reducing the distance food travelled from garden to plate, she said."One of the things that quite often happens when you do a swap with Magic Beans is that you'll get a spontaneous garden tour, which is fantastic - us gardeners love to look at each others' gardens and get some tips and tricks, and it's quite common that you'll get a cutting or some seeds, as well as what you intended to swap for."Inside, Clare Plug and her husband are propagating chili plants. Photo: RNZ / Kate GreenDuring Cyclone Gabrielle, Grant said her community in Dartmoor received food drops from civil defence but most of it was non-perishable."We were all very quickly starting to miss our fresh fruits and veggies, so we started raiding each other's gardens to get that - so there's a big element of food security."Grant said she and co-founder Anneliese Hough were motivated by the idea that around the world people were starving, and the global population was set to increase by another 2 billion by 2050.The goal eventually, with the help of the app, was to make Magic Beans available worldwide, she said."There's a big challenge ahead of us in terms of making sure there's enough food globally to feed everyone good, healthy, nutritious food that they can access and afford."The chilli plants are in neat rows unlike the rest of her thriving garden, Clare Plug says. Photo: RNZ / Kate GreenThe story was originally published by RNZ

ROAD CLOSURE NOTICE SATURDAY JULY 14th & 15th Kapanui and Wharf Streetfrom Friday 14th 9pm until Saturday 15th 11pm Baxter Street between Neville and Percy streetsfrom Friday 14th 9pm until Saturday 15th 11pm Queen StreetFrom Saturday 15th 5pm until Saturday 15th 7pm for the ITM Parade of Lights.Come along to the Mahurangi Winter Festival of Lights GULL Family Fun Day next Saturday 11am - 9pmGet yourself covered in lights and join in the ITM Parade of Lights 6pm from the Paper Plus carparkFollowed by the Artwork of Lights unveiling at 7pm down at Wharf Streetwww.mahulightfestival.nz

It's back!! You can resume dropping your polystyrene packaging into Mangawhai ITM for recycling by EXPOL A MASSIVE thanks to Rob from Mangawhai ITM for persevering in finding a solution.Thanks also to EXPOL for recycling it & Northland Waste for helping with storage and logistics - a real team effort!

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