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New motorway opening this month!!
New motorway opening this month!!

06 June 2023, 10:41 PM

A message from Robert Jones – Project DirectorRamping up to Road OpeningThe moment we have all been waiting for is soon upon us.The Ara-Tūhono - Pūhoi to Warkworth motorway will open before the end of June. The project started over six years ago, with the sod turning on 3 November 2016. It has been a long road with many unprecedented hurdles, but what a road it is. This new piece of infrastructure is magnificent, resilient and safe. I can’t wait for the community and travelling public to enjoy the benefits of the new road.Ahead of the road opening there are a few important things I would like to share around post opening construction works, motorway operation, and my departure from the project.After the new motorway opens to traffic, there will be ongoing work for a number of months to fully complete the project. This includes work on the Pūhoi on and off-ramps, slip repairs, seasonal planting/landscaping, and final clean up of works areas; including removal of machinery and equipment, and tidying up the land no longer required for the motorway operation and returning it to its original condition. The remaining work will largely take place away from the main motorway and have minimal or no impact on the road users.The most significant work that needs to take place is the Pūhoi on and off-ramp closures. These works can’t be completed until the motorway opens and are necessary to complete the construction of the ramps, which were opened in 2021 for temporary use so that the team could construct the new motorway and connect it to the existing Johnstones Hill Tunnels.Pūhoi southbound on-ramp The Pūhoi southbound on-ramp will close immediately after the new road opens, 24/7, for approximately four weeks.Pūhoi residents, residents south of Moir Hill Road, and southbound traffic from ‘old SH1’ will not be able to access the southbound on-ramp during the construction period and motorists travelling south from Pūhoi will be detoured via the free route on Hibiscus Coast Highway while we complete this work.Pūhoi northbound off-ramp The Pūhoi northbound off-ramp will close at night immediately after the new road opens, from 9pm to 5am daily, for approximately two weeks.Pūhoi residents and travelling public will not be able to exit at the northbound off-ramp during this time and will need to take the free route via Hibiscus Coast Highway, exiting SH1 from Grand Drive, Orewa.Some of the work on both ramps is highly weather dependent and can’t be done in the rain or if the ground temperature is too cold, which affects the laying of asphalt. As we are now approaching the winter months it is likely there will be nights where we can’t work. The team have allowed for some contingency, however if there is significant rain or cold weather during these dates, the work will need to be pushed out to the next fine night. To keep up to date with the closures, please check the Waka Kotahi Journey Planner before heading out https://www.journeys.nzta.govt.nz/We fully appreciate this will be inconvenient especially for those living in these areas. We would like to thank the community for their patience, while we complete the last major step required to provide access to the new motorway and smoother ride for journeys to and from Pūhoi.I would also like to take this opportunity to say goodbye and adios. I joined the project back in April 2018 and at that time it was anticipated that I would be around for a couple of years, however, along came COVID-19. It is now time for me to hand over the reins to a successor – Mike Elliot, who will take over as Project Director to close out these final stages. I wish him all the best.So, please enjoy this new piece of infrastructure that has been a labour of love for me and the project team. We are proud of what has been achieved.Thank you all for your patience and interactions with us over the years. Nga mihiRobert Jones – Project DirectorFor more information, call the NX2 team on:24/7 Freephone: 0508 P2WK INFO (0508 7295 4636)Email: [email protected]: Ara Tūhono – Pūhoi to WarkworthWeb: nx2group.com

Principals back clampdown on youth vaping, urge more help for kids to give up
Principals back clampdown on youth vaping, urge more help for kids to give up

06 June 2023, 9:45 PM

Anna Sargent , ReporterSchool principals are backing the government's crackdown on youth vaping, but say more needs to be done to combat what they are calling a crisis.From August, all vapes sold will need removable or replaceable batteries - effectively banning disposable vapes.New vape shops cannot be set up within 300 metres of schools or marae.The government is also outlawing flavour names such as "strawberry jelly donut" to make them less attractive to children.Announcing the changes on Tuesday, Minister of Health Ayesha Verrall said too many teenagers were vaping and the restrictions would have a big impact on the number taking up the habit.Young people RNZ spoke to in central Christchurch were not so sure."I think young people will still be able to get them even with all of those measures ... vapes are at every dairy on every corner and you can order them online, it's all around us," one teenager said."I think teenagers will still find a way to get it, because it's teenagers and they always do, but hopefully they can stop little kids from getting hold of them," another said.The latest figures show youth vaping is increasing.A recent survey by ASH New Zealand found daily vaping among 13- to 14-year-olds had shot up by 209 percent.Meanwhile, Ministry of Health statistics showed the number of 15- to 17-year-olds who vaped every day had quadrupled in three years, from two percent in 2018-19 to eight percent in 2021-22.Principals Federation president Leanne Otene said it was not just a problem for high schools - intermediates across the country, including hers, were dealing with it every day and teachers were feeling powerless."It's definitely hard to police because it doesn't leave an odour, it can be done in corners and it's not something like smoking where it was easily detectable. There was some discussion about putting vaping detectors in schools but that's just not possible, it's just too expensive to do that."Otene said anything to make vaping less attractive to kids was a positive step."The mere fact that vaping comes in bubblegum and fruit flavours begs the question of who is this marketed to. The announcement today about flavour names is a real indication that the government realises vaping is directed at our young people in terms of its sale and purchase.--- If you haven't checked out Matakana Village yet hop to it; there is something for everyone - a quirky fun cinema, retail stores, wine bars and restaurants and farmers market on Saturdays ---"Vaping was originally a way to help people give up smoking, no one considered that our young people would take it up with such voracity," she said.Otene said vaping was particularly a problem for Māori youth."Statistics show a high percentage of Māori boys, 28 percent are vaping, and our Māori girls are at 39 percent, so it is a problem for Māori. If we can get it away from our marae, all the better."Jacqui Brown, principal of New Plymouth Girls' High School, said she was glad to see the phasing-out of cheap, disposable vapes."Removing access to disposable vapes is probably the strongest step because I think that helps prevent young people starting to vape. Financially they're more priced in that bracket that teenagers can get hold of that level of money," she said.Brown said she wanted to see more help for students who were addicted to vaping."One of the things we're finding are a small but significant number of students saying they're addicted and can't get through the day without vaping. Something I'd really like to see is more access to help them stop vaping."Cambridge Middle School principal Daryl Gibbs said the regulations were a "good start", and that a total ban, along the lines of Australia, could be looked at in the future."I mean everyone's pointing towards Australia ... and their changes to making it a prescription only. You know there is arguments for that, that will stop those that that need access for smoking cessation, from accessing it," he said.He said vaping started as a measure to support those who had an addiction to smoking, but has now become a huge problem among teenagers.Minister of Health Ayesha Verrall said the restrictions struck a balance between preventing young people from starting to vape, while still helping adults to quit smoking cigarettes.This story was originally published by RNZ

Kiwi Special Olympians going for gold in Berlin
Kiwi Special Olympians going for gold in Berlin

06 June 2023, 9:30 PM

Thirty-nine New Zealand athletes are on Wednesday boarding a plane for Berlin to compete in the Special Olympics.For many of the competitors - who have intellectual disabilities - the quadrennial event is their first time away from their families, as they chase coveted gold medals and life experiences.Swimmer Jesse Williams was competing in his first games, although he was a veteran sportsman. He looked fit and lithe as he talked to RNZ beside a Palmerston North swimming pool before a training session.Previously a long-distance swimmer, he was entering the 25- and 50-metre freestyle events. He expected to swim the shorter distance in 16 seconds and the longer one in the 30s.To get there, coach Carla L'Huillier put him through his paces twice a week, and he trained outside of this - in the pool and in the gym.Jesse Williams' coach Carla L'Huillier says he has the ability to go fast. Photo: RNZ / Jimmy EllinghamIn swimming terms, the 37-year-old, who has Down syndrome, is a veteran."I've been swimming for 23 years now. It's good exercise. I get fit."He was definitely that and L'Huillier, travelling to Germany as the New Zealand team's swimming coach, rated his chances."He's one of our fastest guys. We've just got to keep him on track. He doesn't train very fast, but he races really well, which is one of the good things about him."Special Olympics were about more than sport, L'Huillier said."It's how much the athlete grows because they go away and they've really got no idea what it's going to be like, and suddenly they're in a stadium with 7000 other people."It's really cool. It's like the Olympics. You come in and you're waving and everyone's cheering for New Zealand."Ten-pin bowler Josh Ryan has experienced that before. These are the Palmerston North 41-year-old's fourth games.Berlin is Josh Ryan's fourth Special Olympics. He's part of the ten-pin bowling team. Photo: RNZ / Jimmy Ellingham"It's the world Summer Games. In bowling, there are four people."After regular weekly practice at a local lane, he said his form was "really good".Three-a-side basketballer Hayden Wilson was a man of few words off the court, but on it he showed off the skills he had honed after months of hard work, including regular dribbling practice on his Palmerston North driveway.🍗 For a quick and tasty meal head to Butter Chicken BoxHayden Wilson's part of New Zealand's three-a-side basketball team. Photo: RNZ / Jimmy EllinghamThe athletes have each raised thousands to get to Berlin, and Wilson had spent hours manning sausage sizzles between training to get him there. Step-father Ron Smith said the experience helped Wilson come out of his shell."It's had a big impact on his life. It's given him confidence and the ability - because of his autism - to talk to strangers."I also believe that when he goes to Berlin, when he comes back he's going to be a really changed person."The Special Olympics opening ceremony, to be televised globally, is on Sunday, 19 June, New Zealand time.This story was first published by RNZ

Auckland overnight motorway closures Mon 5 June - Fri 9 June
Auckland overnight motorway closures Mon 5 June - Fri 9 June

04 June 2023, 8:14 PM

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, 9 June 2023.Unless otherwise stated, closures start at 9pm and finish at 5am.NORTHERN MOTORWAY (SH1)Southbound lanes between Waiwera off-ramp and Silverdale on-ramp, 7 JuneMillwater southbound on-ramp, 7 JuneOrewa southbound on-ramp, 7 June CENTRAL MOTORWAY JUNCTION (CMJ)None planned SOUTHERN MOTORWAY (SH1)Northbound lanes between East Tamaki Road off-ramp and Mt Wellington on-ramp, 5-7 JunePrinces Street northbound on-ramp, 5-7 JuneHighbrook Drive northbound on-ramp, 5-7 JuneEast Tamaki Road northbound on-ramp, 5-7 JuneTe Irirangi Drive northbound on-ramp, 8 JuneSouthbound lanes between Takanini off-ramp and Papakura on-ramp, 6-7 JuneTakanini southbound on-ramp, 6-7 JuneNorthbound lanes between Takanini off-ramp and Takanini on-ramp, 5-7 June (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)Southbound lanes between Drury/SH22 off-ramp and Ramarama on-ramp, 8 JuneDrury/ SH22 southbound on-ramp, 8 JuneSouthbound lanes between Nikau Road off-ramp and Nikau Road on-ramp, 7 June (approx. 9:30pm to 5:00am)Northbound lanes between Nikau Road off-ramp and Nikau Road on-ramp, 7 June (approx. 9:30pm to 5:00am)Razorback Road southbound off-ramp, 7 June (approx. 9:30pm to 5:00am)SH1 southbound to SH2 eastbound link, 7 June (approx. 9:30pm to 5:00am)Southbound lanes between Pokeno off-ramp and Pokeno On-ramp, 7 June (approx. 9:30pm to 5:00am)Northbound lanes between Pokeno off-ramp and Pokeno on-ramp, 7 June (approx. 9:30pm to 5:00am)Hampton Downs southbound off-ramp, 7 June (approx. 11:30pm to 5:00am)Hampton Downs northbound off-ramp, 7 June (approx. 8:00pm to 12 midnight)Hampton Downs northbound on-ramp, 8 June (approx. 8:00pm to 5:00am)Hampton Downs northbound off-ramp, 8 June (approx. 8:00pm to 05:00am)NORTHWESTERN MOTORWAY (SH16)Northbound lanes between Lincoln Road off-ramp and Brigham Creek Roundabout, 8 June (approx. 10:30pm to 5:00am)SH16 northbound to SH18 eastbound link, 8 June (approx. 10:30pm to 5:00am)Lincoln Road northbound on-ramp, 5-8 JuneLincoln Road southbound off-ramp, 5-7 JuneNorthbound lanes between Rosebank Road off-ramp and Te Atatu on-ramp, 6-7 June (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)Patiki Road northbound on-ramp, 6-7 JuneRosebank Road southbound on-ramp, 6-7 JuneGreat North Road westbound off-ramp, 8 JuneNewton Road westbound on-ramp, 8 June UPPER HARBOUR MOTORWAY (SH18)Albany Highway westbound on-ramp, 7 JuneWestbound lanes between Squadron Drive off-ramp and Hobsonville Road on-ramp, 5 June (approx 10:00pm to 5:00am)Brigham Creek Road westbound on-ramp, 5 JuneSH18 westbound to SH16 southbound link, 5 June (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am) SOUTHWESTERN MOTORWAY (SH20)Northbound lanes between Hillsborough Road off-ramp and Maioro Street on-ramp, 5 June (approx 10:00pm to 5:00am)Dominion Road northbound on-ramp, 5 JuneHillsborough Road northbound on-ramp, 5 JuneNorthbound lanes between Neilson Street off-ramp and Hillsborough Road on-ramp, 6 June (approx 10:00pm to 5:00am)Neilson Street northbound on-ramp, 6 JuneNeilson Street northbound off-ramp, 7-8 June (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)Rimu Road northbound on-ramp, 7-8 JuneSouthbound lanes between SH20/SH20A links and Kirkbride Road on-ramp, 8 JuneSH20 southbound to SH20A southbound link, 8 JuneNorthbound lanes between Cavendish Drive off-ramp and Massey Road on-ramp, 8 JunePuhinui Road northbound on-ramp, 8 JuneCavendish Drive northbound on-ramp, 8 JuneSH20 northbound to SH20A southbound link, 8 June GEORGE BOLT MEMORIAL DRIVE (SH20A)Northbound lanes between Kirkbride Road off-ramp and SH20 link, 6 JuneKirkbride Road northbound on-ramp, 6 JuneSH20A northbound to SH20 northbound link, 6 June

First major Whangārei public housing project in a generation complete
First major Whangārei public housing project in a generation complete

03 June 2023, 11:56 PM

The first major public housing development in Whangārei for decades has reached completion, with 37 new homes opened in the suburb of Maunu today.The project on Tapatahi Crescent and Puriri Park Road, consists of 15 one-bedroom, 4 two-bedroom, 7 three-bedroom, 8 four-bedroom and 3 five-bedroom homes, as well as a community room.People moved into the first five homes in mid-2022, and another dozen earlier this year, as the development was delivered in three stages.“The Maunu development is part of a number of major public housing developments that will make a huge impact on the affordability and quality of housing in Whangārei,” Minister of Housing Dr Megan Woods said.“We have rebuilt the public housing sector since the lost years under National. When it left office it had only added six public houses to Whangārei.This Government has already delivered 226, with plans for hundreds more.“This project is part of a build programme in Whangarei that also includes a number of significant housing developments underway in Tikipunga, Kamo, and a 95-home project in the Avenues. These are going to collectively add nearly 200 homes to the Kainga Ora Whangārei portfolio.The name Tapatahi Cres comes courtesy of local iwi Te Parawhau, who chose the name from the waiata Tū Tira Mai Ngā Iwi – “kia tapatahi, kia kotahi rā’”. Those words are about valuing unity, and also valuing diversity.“I can’t think of a better aspiration for a new community of public housing customers in this beautiful place,” Minister Woods said.“It’s impossible to overstate the importance of warm, dry, secure housing in driving good social outcomes. Being free of the illness that comes from living in a damp or overcrowded home, full health and employment means less time off school and work, less time going back and forth between doctors or the hospital.“The residents and schools of the area, the Whangārei community as a whole and inputs from key locals such Iwi and Whangārei District Council have all contributed to getting these new homes in place.”

Everything that is (and isn't) open on King's Birthday
Everything that is (and isn't) open on King's Birthday

03 June 2023, 8:03 PM

By Brianna Mcilraith ofFor more than 70 years June's first public holiday was known as Queen's Birthday - but just because it has a new name, it doesn't mean the rules have changed.What is King's Birthday?Despite King Charles' birthday being in November, a public holiday on the first Monday of June every year commemorates the day, which is 5 June this year.This is because it is traditional for British monarchs who are not born in summer to celebrate twice. They get one celebration on their actual date of birth, and then an official one in the British summer, including the Trooping the Colour parade.The tradition was started by George II in 1748, who was also born in November. He tied his celebrations in with the Trooping the Colour because it was too cold for his own celebratory parade.King's Birthday was formerly known as Queen's Birthday until the death of Queen Elizabeth II in September last year.So what will be open on King's Birthday?By law, all shops must close for three-and-a-half days a year - Christmas Day, Good Friday, Easter Sunday, and until 1pm on Anzac Day.There is no obligation for retailers and cafes to be closed this weekend, although they can if they wish.Big retailers and supermarkets will stay open, including malls, but some may be operating with shorter hours.A lot of big retailers also hold sales throughout the long weekend.Meanwhile, most council-run libraries, swimming pools and attractions will be closed on King's Birthday.If you are required to work on a public holiday you'll be paid time-and-a-half, and may get an alternative day off.But will I be charged a surcharge?Retail NZ chief executive Greg Harford said public holidays were an expensive day to be a business and King's Birthday was no exception.Because of this, businesses such as cafes are entitled to charge extra on a public holiday when they have a justifiable reason to do so."These are big costs, and some businesses which are staff intensive will often surcharge so that they are not out of pocket when they open their doors on a public holiday," Harford said.Often businesses charge a surcharge on public holidays to cover their staff being paid extra.If a business does charge a surcharge, it must have clear signage or communicate this to customers before they pay.If customers believe they've been misled about a surcharge, they can complain to the Commerce Commission.Is anything else affected?Those receiving payments from Work and Income will get their money a little earlier this week thanks to the public holiday.If your pay day is a Tuesday, you'll instead be paid on Saturday, 3 June, as payments will not be processed on Monday.* This story originally appeared on Stuff. and then published by RNZ.

Out and About on the Matakana Coast - Algies Bay Highfield Garden Reserve - Donkey Park
Out and About on the Matakana Coast - Algies Bay Highfield Garden Reserve - Donkey Park

03 June 2023, 12:20 AM

If you’re looking for something local to do this long weekend that isn’t going to break the bank, will entertain the kids, and won’t be too overcrowded.The Algies Bay Donkey Park at Highfield Garden is a little-known place that is free to the public to visit with no booking necessary.Located at 483 Mahurangi East Road, Algies Bay, just a few mins from Snells beach.You can feed donkeys and their foals and it’s awesome for children and adults alike.The donkeys are very friendly, and most will approach for pats and scratches.Come prepared with carrots, apples or green veggies as you are welcome to feed them. There are limits as to how much to feed each donkey.There is parking at the foot of the hill and more at the top, where you get an incredible panoramic view of the bays below for miles around.With picnic tables and lots of open space it’s a lovely spot to set up, enjoy lunch and make an afternoon of it.“Donkeys Inc” (formally, the Highfield Donkeys Incorporated Society) looks after the donkeys and their environment, with help from local volunteers and donations and in partnership with the Highfield Reserve Advisory Committee and Auckland Council.Highfield Reserve and the original donkeys were generously gifted to the people of New Zealand by Mrs Alison Roberts.There is a donation box positioned on the gate as you enter the park and donations are greatly appreciated for ongoing care of the donkeys.Or alternatively, You can sign up to be a memberMemberships are $10 per household per year.More information can be found on the sign as you enter the park or on their website.donkeys – SBRRA (snellsbeach.co.nz)Or on their facebook page Donkeys at Highfield | Facebook

King’s Birthday weekend- A message from NZ Police
King’s Birthday weekend- A message from NZ Police

02 June 2023, 8:46 PM

The message remains the same - we urge every road user to drive carefully and stay patient on the roads this long weekend, and every other day of the year.Many Kiwis will be making the most of the King’s Birthday weekend and we want everyone travelling near or far to reach their destinations and back again safely.Superintendent Steve Greally, Director of National Road Policing Centre says Police will have an active and visible presence throughout our roading network to deter any risky behaviours that lead to deaths and further road trauma.“We all have a responsibility when it comes to road safety and as part of Police’s responsibility, I can’t stress enough to everyone the importance of driving carefully and staying patient and alert on our roads no matter what time of the year it is.“Our role is to prevent offending and enforce the law, so you can expect to see our frontline anywhere and at any time patrolling our roads.”Superintendent Greally said Police can’t be everywhere all the time, although would continue focusing on the four main behaviours that lead to death and serious injury on our roads.“People driving too fast for the conditions, driving while impaired by either alcohol, drugs, or fatigue, driving while distracted – including using a mobile phone – and not being properly restrained are all causes we see too often in our roads and continues to be a regular focus for our team throughout the country."In addition, Superintendent Greally encouraged people not to become complacent and to drive to the conditions as the weather can often present another complicating factor for drivers.“At this time of year, the weather is unpredictable and it’s generally worse than other times of the year. Please remember to check your speeds and to watch your following distances. When the weather is terrible you need space and time to react."If you see poor driving please call 111 or *555 and we will respond with urgency where we can.Issued by Police Media Centre

Tsunami siren test on Sunday 4 June
Tsunami siren test on Sunday 4 June

02 June 2023, 6:58 PM

Auckland’s next bi-annual tsunami siren testing is happening at 12pm (midday) on Sunday 4 June.Testing the system ensures we can check it is working as expected. Located in a number of coastal locations, sirens make a combination of alert sounds and voice instructions advising what actions residents should take in a real emergency. During the test, no action is needed from the public.What does a siren test sound like?Voice instructions say, “Attention Please. This is a test of the Auckland Emergency Management tsunami siren network. The next sound you hear will be the standard emergency warning signal.”Siren tone sounds (5x “whoops”)Voice instructions say, “In the event of a siren activation, follow the instructions that accompany this signal. Thank you.”<Siren test ends>Check and listen to the siren sound sample on the Auckland Emergency Management website [.WAV].Where are tsunami warning sirens located in Auckland?Rodney: Point Wells, Whangateau, OmahaAlbany Ward:  Waiwera, Ōrewa, Hobsonville, Herald IslandWaitākere: Bethells / Te Henga, Piha North, Piha South, Karekare, Whatipu, Little Huia, Te Atatū South, Te Atatū Peninsula NorthDuring this test we will also be checking the performance of any sirens that have been subject to vandalism and thefts. The loss of sirens means the audible warnings for a tsunami threat at these locations are not functioning at full capacity.If you observe anyone tampering with sirens, please contact the Police immediately. Additionally, if you notice damaged or missing tsunami sirens, call us on 09 301 0101 or report via Auckland Council's report a problem tool.🚸--- Looking for before / after school / holiday care for your kids? Contact Julie at Matakids Club ---Emergency Mobile Alert (EMA)It is important to remember tsunami sirens are not present in all coastal areas in the Auckland region and are not the primary way we inform the public in a tsunami emergency.Auckland Emergency Management General Manager, Paul Amaral says in the event of an actual tsunami emergency, an Emergency Mobile Alert will be broadcast to all capable mobile phones.“As well as sending an Emergency Mobile Alert, we will also get the message out through broadcast on radio, television, news media and social media platforms.“We encourage people to share official messages with others to make sure the message gets out if needed.“However, if you are at the coast and feel an earthquake which is long or strong, or see other natural warning signs, evacuate immediately to higher ground without waiting for an official alert.”Remember: LONG or STRONG, GET GONE.If you feel a strong earthquake that makes it hard to stand up or a weak rolling earthquake that lasts a minute or more, see a sudden rise or fall in sea level, hear loud or unusual noises from the sea, don’t wait for an official warning. Go immediately to the nearest high ground or as far inland as you can, taking the route quickest for you.What will happen if there is a tsunami and I need to evacuate?Tsunami testing time is a great reminder to check out whether you live, work, or play in one of Auckland’s three tsunami evacuation zones. Check the Auckland hazard viewer map. We are updating these evacuation maps this year so remember to check back regularly to see if your zone has changed from the previous year.If you are required to evacuate, you should always follow the instructions of the emergency services. You will need to evacuate to higher ground or as far inland as possible, to an area not covered by evacuation zones. If you are not in an evacuation zone, you do not need to evacuate.Create an emergency plan for your home and whānau and practice it so everyone knows what to do in an emergency and what you need to take if you are evacuating.Stay informed and preparedDownload The Red Cross Hazards App for free from your mobile app store. The app is a useful tool to help you through emergencies and receive disaster alerts for your selected area.Check the tsunami preparedness tips and what to do before, during and after a tsunami.Make a household emergency plan.Follow AEM’s official Facebook and Twitter channels to stay updated.For more information, visit Auckland Emergency Management website.Please note: this siren testing differs from the National Emergency Management Agency’s annual mobile alert test that was held on Sunday 28 May.

Husband thanks emergency services, digger driver for help after wife's quad bike accident
Husband thanks emergency services, digger driver for help after wife's quad bike accident

01 June 2023, 9:26 PM

The husband of the woman injured after her quad bike slipped 50 metres down a bank in Auckland's Rodney District is thanking the emergency services who helped save his family.Paula McLean was riding her quad bike with her three children on Ashton Road in Whangateau on Saturday.The bike slid down a bank and she had to be airlifted out by the Westpac Rescue Helicopter and taken to Auckland City Hospital in a serious condition.Two of her children, Jasmine and Delilah, were taken to Starship Hospital but have since been discharged.Her third child suffered only minor injuries.John McLean is extending his gratitude to Fire and Emergency, police and St John ambulance, as well as a digger driver and the Westpac helicopter crew for their quick response."I am blown away by the support we've received," he said."The road ahead is uncertain, but the number of people in our local community who have dropped everything to support us during this traumatic time, has been incredible."He said a local family has gone above and beyond since the accident and "their love, generosity and support means the world".McLean said he was now "100 percent focused on the recovery and healing" of his wife and daughters.A Givealittle page has been set up to help with living costs as Paula McLean recovers.Other residents of Ashton Road said the road was in a bad state and many of the houses were inaccessible by car.They said they have been complaining to Auckland Transport for more than a year.Auckland Transport has been approached for comment.A section of Ashton Road, Whangateau, in the Rodney District in Auckland. Photo: Google MapsThis story was first published by RNZ.

Countdown to freeze prices on 300 products but only two vegetables make the list
Countdown to freeze prices on 300 products but only two vegetables make the list

31 May 2023, 9:46 PM

Countdown is freezing prices on a revised list of basic food items again this winter.Basics are now more expensive than what they were last year - rising by 12.5 percent compared to last April.Last year Countdown froze prices on more than 500 products as a measure to curb the cost of living crisis, that had since, steadily worsened.Now it was back, but had been revised to just over 300 products - including double ups like blue and green top milk - which would stay the same price they are now until the end of winter.Countdown brand milk would stay at $5.69, a kilogram of beef mince at $16.90, and a kilo of chicken breasts for $12.90.Just two vegetables were on the list - a pack of mushrooms remained at $4 and 4kg of potatoes at $10.Countdown packaged goods commercial director Steve Mills said they could not control all the causes contributing to inflation, but hoped holding prices would help.Last year's price freeze garnered criticism for not necessarily including the basics included this year, but instead plenty of herbs and more higher priced items like salmon.Foodtsuffs, who last year followed suit with a roll back on some of its essential items, was tight lipped on whether it will bring back the same scheme.The company owns New World and Pak n Save supermarkets.Foodstuffs spokesperson Emma Wooster said the supermarket was focusing on the things it could control."This includes buying well, running our stores and supply chain as efficiently as possible, and keeping costs down. We'll be keeping this focus on throughout 2023," she said.--- Check out Rodney Honda for all your Honda needs - parts, service, new products ---Prices of items that were discounted last year, have since risen.In 2022, a loaf of value bread was rolled back from $1.40 to $1.19, today in North Island stores it was at $1.49.A 1 kg block cheese went from $11.55 to $9.99, but now it was at $11.99. And 1 kg of frozen mixed vegetables, which last year dropped from $2.59 to $2.19, today cost $3.39.Foodstuffs referred RNZ to its Infometrics reporting which showed its prices had stayed below the national food price index for a year now.Food price inflation was at its highest level in 36 year and the national index showed there had been a 12 percent increase in groceries in the last year.Supermarkets still winning - Consumer NZConsumer NZ head of research and advocacy Gemma Rasmussen said because supermarkets put their own brands on the freezing line, they were still winning."In these instances the supermarket is both the supplier and the retailer, so they can retain higher profit, and it also means that increases their market power over other suppliers."Lincoln University Agribusiness' Hamish Gow said the country's expensive grocery bill was symptomatic of the entire industry model needing change."Our food industry is still based around this middle, department-store, traditional supermarket with this large mixed offering - but we haven't seen the differentiation of it in New Zealand like we have elsewhere in the world," he said.Gow said it was not something that could be changed tomorrow - but more hard discounters like Aldi could add some much-needed pressure.This story was first published by RNZ.

HELP REQUIRED for Whangateau family affected by tragic accident - here's how to help
HELP REQUIRED for Whangateau family affected by tragic accident - here's how to help

30 May 2023, 9:37 PM

Last weekend in Whangateau the quad bike the McLean family was travelling on (while the slips on their road were being fixed) slid off the road and went down a steep ravine.John, Jasmine and Delilah sustained moderate injuries but Paula remains in hospital in a stable but serious condition.At present, the future remains uncertain but any donations will assist this community-driven family to rebuild and recover from this traumatic and horrific accident.A Give A Little page has been set up to help with ongoing costs. You can donate hereUse of funds - The goal is to relieve the financial pressure for the McLean family while they work their way through the coming weeks and months of rehabilitation and recovery. Any donation, small or big, will be used to pay bills and associated costs.$25,000 has currently been donated and more will be needed.There is also a meal train set up where people can make food for the family to help if you prefer . Drop off is in Whangateau.Amazing to see the daily slots are already full until the end of July! You can find news articles about the family accident herehttps://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/490770/woman-and-three-children-injured-in-quad-bike-accidenthttps://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/490803/whangateau-quad-bike-accident-steep-road-narrows-after-heavy-rain-resident-sayshttps://www.rnz.co.nz/national/programmes/checkpoint/audio/2018892199/safety-fears-after-accident-on-damaged-whangateau-road

DOC set to announce booking dates for Heaphy Track, most other Great Walks today
DOC set to announce booking dates for Heaphy Track, most other Great Walks today

30 May 2023, 8:57 PM

A small West Coast community says fully reopening the Heaphy Track will breathe fresh life back into their town.Last February, storms destroyed three bridges and damaged the track, reducing trips to in and out only without a helicopter transfer.Karamea businesses say it has caused a significant drop in visitors, but they're hopeful that will soon change.There's only one road in to Karamea, and at the end of it lies an entrance to the Heaphy Track which winds close to 80km towards Golden Bay.Karamea Village Hotel manager Rochelle Crossman said the Great Walk was a huge drawcard for the town."Through the summer months, we'd get a lot of the walkers coming through. Even though they may not stay in the village, they'll come in and have a beer and some lunch or something before they head out of town."In the winter, she said, mountain bikers would usually stop by and it had been tough seeing fewer people coming through.Hopes were high for the upcoming Great Walk season.The Department of Conservation had confirmed it was on track to fully reopen in October, and it would announce booking dates on Wednesday along with most other Great Walks.It was exciting news for Crossman."Just the amount of people that it should bring back through the district. Good for the local Four Square, the cafes, and all of our businesses really."She was hopeful more promotion of the different activities in the area could encourage more people to stay longer.Helicopter Charter Karamea has been choppering trampers over the impassable part of the track along with a scenic flight.Vanessa Kingan said communities at both ends of the Heaphy had suffered."At the time when the flooding happened, it was really important to us as members of our community to look at what we can do to help drive more people right through the track."While uptake had been positive, she couldn't wait for the Heaphy to fully open again."You talk about the track opening again and you see a great sense of relief and joy on people's faces, locally business-wise and speaking to people in the Golden Bay community because they've equally been impacted.Engineers had found a 147-metre long flood-damaged Heaphy Bridge on the Heaphy Track. Photo: Supplied / Department of ConservationDevelopment West Coast tourism and destination manager Patrick Dault said there had been a big drop in visitor spend with some tourism operators recording an occupancy drop of up to 70 percent"We've seen visitor numbers drop from 500 monthly visitors to the i-Site to less than 65 in the month of July only, and in April, from a peak of 1200, almost 1300 to about 300."Fully reopening the track would be a significant milestone, he said."It says that this hopefully is the final chapter in to what was an incredible journey of, not only of Covid, but of climate change and resilience, and this means that it sets 2023, 2024 for success."--- Moving house and need some help? CanDo Movers have got you covered ---DOC Buller operations manager Suvi Van Smit said it was exciting to see the progress being made after the Great Walk was extensively damaged."The scale of the damage meant major repair work was required to be able to reinstate the track as a through walk as the damage included three bridges destroyed or washed away," she said.The final stage involved building two bridges including one further downstream of previous one across the Heaphy River and the other across the Lewis River."These bridges will replace the Heaphy Bridge which was destroyed by ex-cyclone Dovey."The two-bridge solution was decided on after a hydrology report found that current erosion patterns and predicted flood levels and flows meant a new bridge at the old site would soon be threatened."The booking dates for the next Great Walks season, including the Heaphy Track, will be announced on Wednesday.Last month, the Department of Conservation's booking website crashed for several hours when 10,000 people tried to book the Milford Track at once.A week later, bookings for other Great Walks were postponed due to ongoing technical issues with plans to open for booking in mid June.In a response to an Official Information Act request, DOC's Heritage and Visitors director Catherine Wilson said it was extremely disappointed to have experienced these issues, but it was happy with the IT provider's response so far and impressed with the effort put in to resolve the problems."The Department is currently undertaking commercial negotiations with our booking system provider."These negotiations were scheduled under our existing contract with the provider and are not a result of the issues we experienced with the Great Walks booking system in April 2023."However, the issues have given extra importance and a higher level of sensitivity to the process."

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