Mangawhai Central SubstationLocation: Mangawhai CentralInvestment: $11.2 millionStart Date: December 2022Completion Date: March 2024Providing for a growing communityWith the historically small seaside settlement of Mangawhai expanding steadily in recent years, Northpower has constructed a brand-new substation in the area to meet the growing demand for electricity.This new 15-megawatt substation is located within the Mangawhai Central development area. It consists of a modern tilt slab building housing all the electrical equipment and is designed to blend with the surroundings, including fresh landscaping and planting.Providing now and into the futureThe substation has been built with room to grow. It is initially powering 7,500 homes and providing backup to customers supplied from the Mangawhai North substation.There is space within the building to house an additional transformer of 15 megawatts, enabling expanded capacity as Mangawhai grows.Along with the substation, new high-voltage lines are being installed in the area, increasing the electricity supply’s reliability.Keeping it localNorthpower worked closely with local hapū, Te Uri O Hau to appropriately acknowledge the history of the substation site, and the changing nature of the land use. The site of the Mangawhai Central substation was blessed by Te Uri O Hau before the first sod was turned.The project was completed by Northpower with the help of local contractors, contributing to employment in the area.Once the substation was completed, we held an open day, for locals to come and check it out. It was a great turnout with interested people and families taking the chance to see the inner workings of a new substation.Minimising power outages to the communityTo help avoid negative impacts and inconvenience to the Mangawhai community when livening the substation, we utilised some switching to back feed customers where possible.We had two widespread planned power outages to connect and liven the new lines and substation but were able to do this overnight to reduce the impact on our valued Mangawhai customers.

Watercare has finished cementing the concrete foundations and plinths to support the state-of-the-art upgrades at the Wellsford Wastewater Treatment Plant.Made from reinforced concrete, the nine plinths were installed on top of 99,000 litres of concrete that was poured one week earlier.Each of the plinths will support a tank that will play a crucial role in the treatment plant’s $38.3 million upgrade.The upgrade will allow the plant to meet stricter resource consent requirements and to better cope with peak flows during wet weather.Once the upgrades are finished, six of the nine plinths will hold two Membrane-Aerated Biofilm Reactor (MABR) tanks, two aerobic tanks and two anoxic tanks.The other three plinths will support future tanks that can be installed later to enable future population growth in the area.The upgrades are on track to be completed by the middle of next year.Watercare head of wastewater Jonathan Piggot says having MABR tanks and Membrane Bioreactor (MBR) technology integrated into the treatment process will result in cleaner water being discharged into the Hōteo River and surrounding environment.“The MBR and MABR technology are very efficient in removing organic matter and nutrients.“This is largely thanks to microorganisms (bugs) which work on our behalf; we just create the right conditions for them.Watercare cements the concrete foundations and plinths to support the state-of-the-art upgrades at the Wellsford Wastewater Treatment Plant.“Any pathogens that pass through the membranes face ultraviolet disinfection, ensuring high-quality wastewater discharge.”Watercare capital delivery general manager Suzanne Lucas says the layout of the upgraded plant utilises modular design principles, where each part will be built separately and joined together at the treatment plant.“Opting for a modular design for the upgrade allows us to incorporate existing infrastructure into the new build, reducing construction time and cost.“It also provides greater flexibility to scale up and update technology to meet future needs and accommodate population growth.”Lucas says over March the MABR tanks will be lifted into position and the work for installing the supporting and mechanical electricals will get underway on site.“Over the next couple of months, we’ll also have crews on site installing a new inlet pump station, a new dosing area, control building and new outfall pipeline. “Traffic management will be in place approximately 300 metres on either side of the entrance on State Highway 1, around 2.5km outside of Wellsford, to allow for the high number of trucks and vehicles that will be coming in and out of the site.“We appreciate the community's patience and understanding as we work to increase the plant’s capacity and ensure its long-term sustainability.”

Warkworth Butchery: Award-Winning Quality, Premium Meats & Hands-On Butchery CoursesNestled in the heart of Warkworth, Warkworth Butchery is more than just a butcher shop—it's a hub for top-quality meats, expert craftsmanship, and now, interactive butchery courses. With a long-standing commitment to excellence, this family-run butchery has become a household name for locals who appreciate the finest cuts and unbeatable flavours.An award-winning butchery like no otherAt Warkworth Butchery, quality isn’t just a promise—it’s a proven achievement. Owner Rob Lees secured the title of NZ Master Butcher of the Year in 2020 on his first attempt, setting the stage for continued success in New Zealand’s top meat competitions.NZ Bacon Awards 2022Supreme Winner – Dry Cured Middle Bacon (Best bacon in NZ!)Gold – Preservative-Free Dry Cured BaconSilver – Dry Cured Shoulder BaconGreat New Zealand Sausage Competition 2022Gold – Pork, Jalapeño & CheeseGold – Lamb MerguezGreat New Zealand Sausage Competition 2023Gold – Traditional BeefGold – Pork, Parmesan, Truffle & BaconHam & Bacon Awards 2024Gold – Dry Cured Shoulder BaconBronze – Preservative-Free BaconGreat New Zealand Sausage Competition 2024Gold – WarkwurstGold – Lamb Merguez (again!)Gold – Frank 'n' PenoSilver – Farmhouse Precooked SausageSilver – Sunday Roast LambWith a track record of excellence, it's no wonder Warkworth Butchery is renowned for delivering some of the best meats in the country.NEW: Butchery courses for the publicKeen to learn from the experts? Warkworth Butchery now offers hands-on courses for food enthusiasts and home cooks, including:Sausage Masterclass – Learn the art of making the perfect sausage.Pig in a Day – Master the breakdown and preparation of a whole pig.These courses provide an unforgettable experience and a unique chance to learn from an award-winning butcher.Premium meat boxes for every budgetWant to stock up on top-quality meats without the hassle? Warkworth Butchery offers convenient meat boxes in a range of sizes and prices—ideal for families, foodies, and BBQ enthusiasts looking for premium cuts at great value.More the just a butcherBeyond its famous meats, Warkworth Butchery is a one-stop shop for:Fresh milk & eggsPet foodGourmet rubs & saucesHome kill services for paddock-to-plate transparencyVisit TodayExperience the award-winning difference at Warkworth Butchery. Visit them at 10 Queen Street, Warkworth, or explore their selection and book a course online at warkworthbutchery.co.nz.

The Government is investing $30 million from the International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL) to enhance biodiversity and support conservation-focused tourism, with significant improvements planned for Goat Island / Te Hāwere a Maki, Conservation Minister Tama Potaka has announced.Boosting Conservation TourismTourism is a key economic driver, and our natural environment is one of Aotearoa New Zealand's biggest attractions for international visitors.By improving tourism infrastructure and investing in conservation, we ensure visitors continue to have world-class experiences while supporting local economies.New Zealand’s first marine reserve, Goat Island / Te Hāwere a Maki (Cape Rodney- Ōkakari Point), will celebrate its 50th anniversary later this year. The site, which attracts approximately 350,000 visitors annually, is among the top 10 most visited natural heritage areas in the country.Improvements at Goat IslandAs part of an $11 million investment to enhance visitor experiences at key natural heritage sites, Goat Island will receive funding to improve:Beach access for visitorsCar parking facilitiesRecognition of the site's significant cultural heritageThese upgrades will not only enhance the visitor experience but also support local businesses in Leigh, Matakana, and the surrounding areas.Strengthening Environmental ProtectionBeyond tourism infrastructure, the Government is allocating $19 million from the IVL towards biodiversity protection efforts, including:Expanding predator control to protect native speciesManaging invasive species such as wallabies, deer, and goats to allow native flora and fauna to thriveRemoving wilding pines from iconic landscapesGoat Island is a treasured marine environment, and ensuring its protection is crucial for the region’s biodiversity and tourism appeal.These initiatives align with the upcoming Hauraki Gulf Bill, which aims to provide the highest level of environmental protection for the region’s marine ecosystems.The investment in Goat Island and other key locations is part of the Government’s broader strategy to strengthen sustainable tourism, protect New Zealand’s natural heritage, and ensure visitors continue to have unforgettable experiences in the country’s unique landscapes.

Dargaville Police have identified offenders involved in a string of burglaries earlier this week.Enquiries have been underway since three businesses were targeted in the early hours of 18 February.Whangārei – Kaipara Area Commander, Inspector Maria Nordstrom, says local staff have been investigating.Burglaries had occurred at a retail store, dairy and petrol station.“We are treating these three burglaries as linked, and have identified three young people allegedly involved,” Inspector Nordstrom says.“All three, who are aged between 11 and 15 are being referred to Youth Aid.”Police are not currently seeking any further offenders over these incidents.“I’d like to acknowledge our staff who worked quickly to identify those responsible in these cases,” Inspector Nordstrom says.“Your local Police are continuing to work closely with the local community groups around addressing any concerns and ways to keep yourself safe.”

The Wellsford tennis and netball clubs finally have some positive news to share with their community after facing years of frustration due to poor drainage degrading their court areas and causing costly maintenance. In 2017 the tennis club surrendered their court lease in the hope that Auckland Council would take on the responsibility to upgrade facilities. With no local courts players were forced to join Warkworth and Mangawhai clubs to have games putting the Wellsford Club into recess. The netball club were able to carry on with limited court availability due to surface cracking. Two years ago the tennis turf was removed and the original asphalt surface patched up to allow more courts for netballers.  However, this surface was still gritty raising health and safety concerns over the winter months. Last November Council laid a smooth surface on top as a temporary solution. Line markings allow for 2 netball, 2 tennis and 2 basketball courts complete with nets and ready for play.The Wellsford Sports Collective had been lobbying council for many years to come up with a staged Master Plan for the whole park.  Auckland Council commissioned Visitor Solutions in 2023 to do a feasibility study to determine how a court facilities upgrade might proceed. Their initial plan was criticised for poor traffic flow, disjointed parking areas and unsafe pedestrian access. These criticisms were taken to a specialist park development company and have been revised. The revised plan allows for 3 stages of development:Four netball / tennis courts and two basketball courts (multi-court style).A new covered outdoor netball/ tennis court area and playground A new building with provision for netball/ tennis and mezzanine seating.Stage 1 has been budgeted for completion later this year with renewed plexi-pave surfacing and a widened court footprint.Stages 2 and 3 are planned when additional outside funding becomes available. Anyone wanting to know more or support these developments please contact Wendy Crow-Jones (Tennis) 021 1446613 or Lynette Gubb (netball) 021 1168437 or email the Collective    [email protected]

Experts agree that advances to GMO technology means laws need to change. But just how those changes look is contentious.The government is promising a relaxation of gene technology regulations will provide economic growth for the country, but critics fear the new bill is too loose and a step too far."It is using a bulldozer to crack a nut," Jack Heinemann, professor of genetics at the University of Canterbury, tells The Detail.Public submissions for the Gene Technology Bill closed this week.Introduced late last year, the bill aims to modernise New Zealand's regulations on genetic modification (GM) and gene editing technologies, and seeks to balance the potential benefits of gene technologies with environmental, health, economic, and cultural considerations.Currently, New Zealand's regulations - among the most stringent in the world - mean that GMOs cannot be released out of containment without going through a rigorous process.The government says the purpose of the new bill, set to be in place by the end of the year, is to enable the safe use of gene technology and regulated organisms in New Zealand, while the intention is to establish a new regulatory regime for gene technology and GMOs.Among the changes, low-risk gene editing techniques that produce changes indistinguishable from traditional breeding will be exempted from regulation and a new regulator of the industry will be appointed.In his state of the nation speech this month, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon said "enabling gene technology is about backing farmers. It is about embracing growth. It is about saying 'yes', instead of 'no'".But critics - including Professor Heinemann - argue that deregulating gene editing technologies has wider consequences than the government has considered."They are taking an approach where some of the most powerful of our gene technology tools will be deregulated which means anybody can use them, anywhere, anytime,'' Professor Heinemann says."This legislation would take chemical components, that happen to be biological molecules, that are also very potent mutagens and allow people to use them anywhere without any kind of oversight."When we have done those kinds of operations historically, we have at least required that they be done inside a registered containment facility, so we can control who is using them, who is exposed to them and what happens to the things that we didn't want exposed or to the things that were changed in ways that we didn't want them to be changed in, and make sure that those don't escape the laboratory and get into the environment."This is the departure point for the bill as proposed... for some of the most important, easily obtained and powerful of the techniques we have available right now."He said New Zealand's identity as a GMO-free export country would disappear.Just this week, the Consumers Union of Japan, a leading consumer advocacy group of about 30 million people, reiterated its longstanding rejection of GM foods, urging New Zealand to remain a natural food exporter.In an open letter, chairperson Mrs Michiyo Koketsu said: "We hope you will remain a stable, wonderful, and natural food exporter. Do not underestimate the old saying, 'the customer is king,' and please keep New Zealand GM-free."But Newsroom.co.nz political reporter Fox Meyer, who has been covering the story, tells The Detail that while the bill is a seismic shift for the country, there are benefits."GMOs are not as alien as we might think," Meyer says. "And whether or not New Zealand is currently using GMO technology, we are all consuming GMOs every day... and we have been modifying the genes of crops for thousands of years to arrive at the ones that we enjoy now."What we are able to do now is speed up that process effectively, as long as you know what you are doing, and you know how to target the changes that you want to see. It offers a lot of advantages."The new bill can facilitate the development and availability of innovative medical therapies, such as CAR T-cell therapy for cancer treatment, and it may support the development of genetically modified crops that are resistant to pests and diseases, which could enhance agricultural productivity and sustainability. This could help farmers adapt to climate change and reduce reliance on chemical pesticides."You can get crops that are resilient to climate change, that can weather higher highs and lower lows or require more or less water or have higher yields, that's an especially important one" says Meyer."But there's also just conveniences - imagine an onion that doesn't make you cry, or [how] the red grapefruit's colour is actually a product of GMO back in the 1970s in America."The sky's the limit with it, as far as the possibilities are concerned... it's just finding the right methods and shoring up the regulations."This story was originally published by RNZ

A Belgian ultrarunner has smashed the record for the fasted run of New Zealand's longest trail Te Araroa.The 3000km trail spans the length of New Zealand, starting from Cape Reinga to Bluff, with Belgian ultrarunner Karel Sabbe completing it in 31 days, 19 hours, and 41 minutes. It beats the previous record by over 17.5 days.Sabbe told Morning Report he ran an average of 96kms a day - that's over two marathons each day."It was a very adventurous trail and was so rewarding to spend so much time in such a beautiful country," he said.However, the run didn't come with out its challenges."One moment you can be gently running on a trail and then suddenly it becomes like rough tramping," Sabbe said.Te Araroa is a diverse trail, winding through high mountain passes, rivers, cities and towns."You have so many river crossings, many times that you have to run in streams. So, basically all the time your feet are wet," he said.Sabbe had a crew of five people helping him along the run, however, an attack by two wild dogs left one of friends with a broken elbow 400km into the run.The Belgium runner has hiked in many countries, previously having set several speed records for trails around the world, including currently holding the record for the Pacific Crest Trail in North America.This story was originally published by RNZ

 Foodstuffs Own Brands Ltd is recalling a specific batch of its Pams brand Tempura Coated Chicken Nuggets as the product may contain foreign matter (blue rubber).New Zealand Food Safety is supporting Foodstuffs Own Brands in its recall of Pams brand Tempura Coated Chicken Nuggets as they may contain small pieces of blue rubber."If you have a 1kg bag of Pams Tempura Coated Chicken Nuggets with a best-before date of 16 October 2025, don’t eat them," says New Zealand Food Safety deputy director-general Vincent Arbuckle."Return the nuggets to the place of purchase for a refund or, if that’s not possible, throw them out."The affected products are sold at Four Square, Gilmours, New World, Pak’nSave and Social Supermarket stores nationwide.The products have been removed from stores and have not been exported.Visit New Zealand Food Safety’s food recall page for up-to-date information and photographs of the affected product.Pams brand Tempura Coated Chicken NuggetsThe problem came to light as a result of a customer complaint, and New Zealand Food Safety has had no notification of associated issues."As is our usual practice, we will work with Foodstuffs Own Brands to understand how this issue arose and to prevent it happening again," says Mr Arbuckle.The vast majority of food sold in New Zealand is safe, but sometimes problems can occur. Help keep yourself and your family safe by subscribing to our recall alerts.For further information and general enquiries, email [email protected] media enquiries, contact the media team on 029 894 0328.

We’re excited to introduce our new Trades business directory listings on the Matakana Coast App! Check them out by clicking on the links below and support local!🏗 Absolute Scaffolding Ltd provides top-quality scaffolding and edge protection services across the Rodney District. With offices in Warkworth, they specialise in commercial and residential scaffolding solutions, ensuring compliance with WorkSafe NZ requirements for new builds, renovations, roofing, and painting projects. For professional, reliable service that keeps your site safe and on schedule, choose Absolute Scaffolding.🏠 ZC Roofing Ltd has over 22 years of experience and is Rodney’s go-to roofing specialist, offering top-quality roofing solutions. As Licensed Building Practitioners, we provide expert craftsmanship in new roofing, repairs, replacements, painting, guttering, and maintenance. Whether it's a minor repair or a full roof replacement, ZC Roofing delivers reliability and expertise you can count on.🌳 Chippity Chip Treeworx serves Warkworth to Mangawhai, Connor and his team provide expert arborist services with a focus on safety, reliability, and affordability. Fully certified and insured, they handle tree removal, pruning, hedge trimming, section clearing, storm damage response, height reductions, and mulch sales. Whether you need tree maintenance or emergency assistance, they offer obligation-free quotes and 24/7 storm damage support.👨🏼‍🔧 TTT Plumbing and Drainlaying Ltd is tried, tested and trusted. Based in Warkworth and servicing the greater Rodney area, they deliver expert plumbing and drainage solutions. With over 10 years of experience their services include plumbing, drainage, high-pressure cleaning, septic tank services, water tank supply and installation, stormwater management, and drain unblocking with specialised camera inspections and high-pressure machines.🖌 Mandy The Painter (MTP) specialises in high-quality interior and exterior painting for residential homes and commercial spaces across Auckland and Rodney. Known for exceptional attention to detail, Mandy takes pride in delivering flawless finishes. Beyond standard painting, MTP offers a range of specialty finishes, including lime washes, Venetian plaster, polished plaster, rust finishes, and unique metallic patinas.📱 If you want your business to be on the App get in contact [email protected] 

FOR THE FULL NEWSLETTER PLEASE CLICK HEREHas It Been a Good Summer?Over the last six months, we've been running a Business Survey to get a clearer picture of how our local businesses are doing and what support One Mahurangi can offer in response.The results, which you can explore in more detail through the link below, confirm what many of us already know—times are tough. While we continue to push the "Buy Local" message, and Warkworth is holding up better than some other parts of Auckland, that doesn’t mean local businesses are thriving.A significant 79% of retailers have reported a drop in sales, with reduced foot traffic and lower consumer spending adding to the challenge. Hospitality has taken a hit too—where customers used to grab a coffee and a muffin, many now just opt for the coffee.But if you were in town over the summer holidays, you probably noticed the buzz—yes, it was busy. The challenge now is keeping that momentum going all year. If we can make Warkworth a true destination beyond just the peak season, we’ll see real, lasting benefits.There are a few key things we can do. Keeping businesses open on weekends and public holidays, where possible, has proven successful for those who do it. Enhancing the experience around our river—the jewel in our crown—will attract more visitors and encourage them to spend here.One common request from businesses is more support with digital marketing, and we’re working on bringing in the right expertise to help. There are plenty of other areas where businesses need support, and as time and funding allow, we’ll continue to address them.The bottom line? While we’re performing better than 80% of other Business Improvement Districts (BIDs), it’s still a tough environment. Every time we choose to support a local business instead of shopping online, we’re helping to keep them here—not just for today but for the long term. These are the same businesses we turn to when we need sponsorships for local schools, sports teams, and community projects.So, was it a good summer? Yes. But now, the challenge is to make that success last all year. I believe we can do it.As always, Buy Local, Support Local, Employ Local, and Love Local.Murray ChapmanManager, One Mahurangi, [email protected] Health Check Survey ResultsWarkworth businesses have spoken, and the results are clear—times are tough, but opportunities for support and growth exist.The Business Health Check Survey 2024 gathered insights from 54 local businesses, with strong representation from construction, retail, hospitality, professional services, and healthcare.Read the report summary HERE>Business Improvement District (BID) Policy RefreshHave your say about the refreshed policyUpdates to the BID Policy and supporting documents are now open for feedback until 28 February 2025. Read MORE HERE>Get a felt Warkworth heart for your Valentine! $5Follow the Warkworth Information Centre on Instagram! Follow @visitwarkworth on Instagram for stunning photos, updates on local events and attractions, and insider tips on the best places to shop and dine out in Warkworth and beyond.Get a felt Warkworth heart for your Valentine! $5You can now follow The Warkworth NZ Information Centre on Facebook too! > facebook.com/visitwarkworthA noticeboard outside the WW Info Centre has the latest updates on the Watercare Pipeline Project.Visit onemahurangi.co.nz for the latest updatesAre you a registered member of One Mahurangi Business Association?Find out about BID Affiliate and Associate Membership entitlements, including the right to vote at our AGM, on our website onemahurangi.co.nz/join-one-mahurangi/ // Community Noticeboard //Summer Shuttle Service around Mahurangi with Mai RideWith 12+ stops connecting Omaha, Matakana, Snells Beach, Warkworth, and Algies Bay you can move effortlessly between local events, sunny outdoor spots, and great venues for just $20pp a dayVisit www.mairide.net for more details

Moir Street rehabilitation works underwayEssential road rehabilitation and drainage improvement works on Moir Street start on Monday 17 February and are expected to be completed by the end of April.The works include reinstating the road condition to support the high volume of traffic. Drainage work is also part of the programme, along with a new level crossing at Urlich Drive and an improved temporary bus stop near Bennetts.Key pointsThe section between house numbers 48 and 104 Moir Street will be the focus of the works.To minimise full road closures, there will be single lane closures, managed with stop/go.There will be one (overnight) full road closure on the section outside Bennetts. We will notify the date and time via Council channels once it is scheduled.Some driveways will need to be reinstated to match the new road height. We will make every effort to maintain access for residents; however, there may be times when vehicles cannot cross freshly laid concrete while it cures. Affected residents will be contacted directly in advance of such disruptions.PhasesThe first phase involves drainage improvements along the northern lane, beginning near the Domain and progressing towards the village.Once most of the drainage work is complete, pavement rehabilitation will begin, involving the removal of the existing pavement and the reconstruction of the road with an overlay.

Food prices +1.9 pct in January, annual rate 2.3 pctChocolates, fresh produce, groceries push up food pricesTobacco and alcohol duties riseSoft NZ dollar raises import pricesConsumer inflation gets unwelcome boostA big price rise for sweet treats, sin taxes and a soft New Zealand dollar may be reigniting unwelcome inflation pressures for households.Stats NZ's monthly food price index rose 1.9 percent in January on the month before, the highest monthly increase since mid-2022, and taking the annual rate to its highest in a year at 2.3 percent.Higher prices were widespread, with about two-thirds of the goods in the food basket more expensive than a year ago."The proportion of the food basket that increased by over 5 percent in price was the highest in five years," Stats NZ prices spokesperson Nicola Growden said.Higher prices for grocery food contributed the most to the January 2025 increase, with higher prices for boxed chocolates, milk and chocolate blocks."The average price of a 2-litre bottle of milk was $4.54 in January this year. In January last year, it was $3.93," she said.The average price of a 250 gram block of chocolate was $5.72 in January 2025 compared with $4.90 in January 2024.Chocolate and coffee prices world-wide had surged on the back of rising cocoa prices - caused by bad harvests because of weather and disease.The usual rise in non-seasonal fruit and vegetables such as broccoli, apples and kiwifruit also occurred.Grocery prices were also lifted by rises for dairy products and meat, reflecting the strong prices New Zealand products were getting on world markets.And a sample of other prices for the month showed a 2.4 percent rise in alcohol and tobacco price after the annual rise in customs duties, with fuel and commercial accommodation higher - partly offset by cheaper airfares.The surveyed prices accounted for about half of the consumer price index (CPI), the main inflation barometer.Unwelcome headwindsEconomists were quick to note many of the rises were seasonal and would disappear, but also contained some warning signals."There is always a lot of noise in monthly prices. But as the first month of the quarter, January's figures set the base for the first quarter so should not be ignored," BNZ senior economist Doug Steel said.He said the RBNZ would likely look through the volatility when it came to setting policy, but even so would remain alert."This broad trajectory fits with our thinking that there is more upside risk than downside to near term CPI inflation prints ... these things need to be monitored closely."ASB senior economist Mark Smith looked at the weaker New Zealand dollar, which had fallen more than 5 percent over the past six months against the US dollar."The figures suggest that the lower NZ dollar is reigniting pricing pressures from a number of pockets."He said the expected 50 basis point rate cut at next week's RBNZ monetary statement was safe, but data such as the raised questions about how far and fast the central bank might cut rates later in the year.This story was written by Gyles Beckford, Business Editor for RNZ

When buying bananas at the supermarket - you'll see they come from places like Ecuador or the Philippines.And you could be forgiven for thinking we can't grow them in New Zealand.But it turns out more and more Kiwis are getting into the banana game, and there are way more varieties than the Cavendish kind we see in stores.Ed Hayes and his wife, who had a plantation in Northland, were relatively new to the banana growing scene.Hayes told First Up he did not know many people in the area."Because we're pretty new, we don't know how of a lot of people up here, but whenever Kelly or myself are saying, 'oh yeah, we grow bananas, they usually say ohh are you the guys out on State Highway 1? and we go. 'Yeah, that's us'."The couple started Tippu Farm just over two years ago and ran it alongside the other business ventures.Hayes said the farm had 1100 plants at the moment, but they planned to to expand to 1600."In this plantation, we've got, Misi Luki, which is a lady finger banana we've got Dwarf Cavendish, We've got Hua Moa and we've got Goldfinger."Hayes said the bananas - although much smaller than the typical Cavendish bananas you find in supermarkets - were full of flavour and character."With a supermarket banana, when they're brown on the outside typically the fruit on the inside is also brown. But really the the skin of these bananas is is just a protectant.The fruit underneath it, the actual part that you eat is typically really always good, so it could be blackened on the outside with pets on it and all sorts. And yet underneath the flesh will be perfect."Banana plants like the ones on Hayes' farm typically took around 18 months before you can start harvesting and selling.He said they dipped their toes into the market by going through a wholesaler."So he'll come along, purchase our bananas and take them off to markets or he'll sell them to the supermarkets like Farrow or something like that, or restaurants."And I don't have a lot of time to do that myself and go on the weekends and everything."Hugh Rose had been running his plantation longer than Hayes."I couldn't believe when I read somewhere that we were the largest consumers of bananas and I had actually successfully grown bananas amongst other things.""I could not believe that we're importing 80 million kilos of bananas when they could be perfectly easily grown here and better tasting ones than what we get usually from the shops."Rose was the founder and chairperson for the tropical Fruit Growers Association of New Zealand."All bananas are not created equal."He said it was difficult to say how many varieties of bananas actually existed."We could classify into a broad breakdown of plantain, which is a cooking banana, ladyfinger, the Cavendish, which is a thick skinned ones, but all bananas that we eat are hybridised and have been created by men. So yeah, there's millions of them."He said he had 40-50 different varieties at his plantation.Northland was known for its farming and horticulture, with popular crops like avocados, kumara, kiwi fruit and citrus, but it hard to put into words the diversity of fruit on display at Hughes Farm.Rose had a number of plants on his land including mango trees, coffee beans, Himalayan strawberries and pineapples.He told First Up, his mantra was "poke and hope".This story was written by Leonard Powell and posted by RNZ

An Australian mining giant has surrendered all but one of its prospecting and exploration permits in New Zealand.A spokeswoman for MBIE confirmed Mineralogy International Limited - owned by controversial mining magnate Clive Palmer - applied to surrender 15 of its 16 permits around the country last December.The permits allowed the company to carry out prospecting and exploration for a mix of gold and other minerals - mainly lithium and rare earth elements - and covered about 225,000 hectares in Northland, Waikato, Canterbury and the West Coast.Conservation land was included in the permits.New Zealand Petroleum and Minerals, the government agency that oversees the mining sector, granted the applications to give up the permits late last month.Environmental and hapū groups opposed to mining in Northland's Whangaroa area claimed credit for Mineralogy's withdrawal, saying it was a direct response to community protest.RNZ contacted Mineralogy to ask why the company had given up its permits but was referred to a public relations firm. That firm did not respond.The MBIE spokeswoman said Mineralogy's sole remaining New Zealand permit was in the Waikato region and covered exploration for all metallic minerals.She said Mineralogy had told the agency it was withdrawing from prospecting and exploration in New Zealand to "refocus its portfolio strategy".Permits were subject to annual fees and minimum work requirements, so it was not unusual for companies to surrender permits in the early stages of exploration.Spokeswoman for the Whangaroa Stop Toxic Mining Alliance KATI Dannie Samuels-Thomas said Mineralogy's withdrawal was a direct response to the objections of local residents and community leaders."It's a testament to the strength of our collective voice and our commitment to protecting our sacred lands. We thank Mineralogy for listening to our concerns and respecting our right to say no to destructive mining practices in our rohe."She said the group was grateful to the people of Ngāi Tupango, Ngāti Ruamahue, Ngāti Kura and Te Rūnanga o Whāingaroa, as well as environmental groups Forest and Bird and Greenpeace for their support.Robyn Tauroa, of Kāeo-based Te Rūnanga o Whāingaroa, was among those celebrating the company's withdrawal."The land is sacred to us, and the river, the forest, the mountain - they're not just resources to be extracted. They are our tūpuna, our family. We will never allow outside interests to poison our whenua," she said.Forest and Bird, together with Northland hapū, staged a series of protests in 2023 at Manginangina Scenic Reserve, in Puketī Forest, and Whakarara Conservation Area at Te Ngaere Bay, both of which were included in the prospecting permits.Prospecting typically involves aerial surveys and geologists taking samples with hand tools to determine which minerals are present.Exploration is typically the more intensive next step and can make use of diggers and drills.This story was originally posted by RNZ

NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi 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 February 2025.Unless otherwise stated, closures start at 9pm and finish at 5am. Traffic management may be in place before the advertised closure times for the mainline.NORTHERN MOTORWAY (SH1)Millwater northbound off-ramp, 17 FebruaryNorthbound lanes between Oteha Valley Road off-ramp and Silverdale on-ramp, 17-18 FebruaryOteha Valley Road northbound on-ramp, 17-18 FebruarySouthbound lanes between Tristram Avenue off-ramp and Northcote Road on-ramp, 16-20 February (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)Tristram Avenue southbound on-ramp, 16-20 FebruaryOnewa Road northbound off-ramp, 16-20 FebruaryStafford Road northbound off-ramp, 16-20 FebruaryCurran Street northbound on-ramp, 16-20 FebruaryShelly Beach Road southbound off-ramp, 20 FebruaryShelly Beach Road southbound off-ramp, (approx. 10:00pm 22 February to 12:00pm 23 February)CENTRAL MOTORWAY JUNCTION (CMJ)SH1 northbound to SH16 eastbound (Port) link, 16-17 & 19-20 February (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)SH1 northbound to SH16 westbound link, 16-17 & 19-20 February (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)Westbound lanes between Quay Street/Tamaki Drive and Parnell Rise, (9:00pm 14 February to 5:00am 17 February (24/7)Westbound lanes between Quay Street/Tamaki Drive and Parnell Rise, (9:00pm 21 February to 5:00am 24 February (24/7)SOUTHERN MOTORWAY (SH1)Northbound lanes between Ellerslie-Panmure Highway off-ramp and Wellesley Street East on-ramp, 16-17 & 19-20 February (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)Gillies Avenue northbound on-ramp, 16-17 & 19-20 February (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)Greenlane northbound on-ramp, 16-17 & 19-20 February (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)Ellerslie-Panmure Highway northbound on-ramp, 16-17 & 19-20 February (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)Greenlane southbound off-ramp, 18 FebruaryNorthbound lanes between Mt Wellington Highway off-ramp and Greenlane on-ramp, 18 February (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)Ellerslie-Panmure Highway northbound on-ramp, 18 FebruarySouth Eastern Highway (SEART) northbound on-ramp, 18 FebruaryMt Wellington Highway northbound on-ramp, 18 FebruarySouthbound lanes between Papakura off-ramp and Drury/SH22 on-ramp, 16-20 FebruaryPapakura (Loop) southbound on-ramp, 16-20 FebruaryPapakura (Diamond) southbound on-ramp, 16-20 FebruaryDrury/SH22 northbound on-ramp, 16-20 FebruaryDrury/SH22 northbound off-ramp, 16-20 FebruarySouthbound lanes between Ramarama off-ramp and Bombay on-ramp, 16-18 FebruaryRamarama southbound on-ramp, 16-18 FebruaryBombay southbound off-ramp, 16-18 & 20 February Bombay northbound on-ramp, 16-20 FebruaryBombay northbound off-ramp, 16-20 FebruaryBombay southbound on-ramp, 19 February (approx. 8:00pm to 5:00am)Beaver Road southbound off-ramp, 19 FebruaryBeaver Road southbound on-ramp, 19 February (approx. 8:00pm to 5:00am)Nikau Road southbound off-ramp, 19 FebruaryNORTHWESTERN MOTORWAY (SH16)Southbound lanes between Waimauku roundabout and Trigg Road, 16-20 February (approx. 8:00pm to 5:00am)Northbound lanes between Trigg Road and Waimauku roundabout, 16-20 February (approx. 8:00pm to 5:00am)Southbound lanes between Brigham Creek roundabout and Lincoln Road on-ramp, 19 FebruaryHobsonville Road southbound on-ramp, 19 FebruaryRoyal Road southbound on-ramp, 19 FebruaryUPPER HARBOUR MOTORWAY (SH18)Eastbound lanes between Tauhinu Road off-ramp and Albany Highway on-ramp, 16-18 FebruaryGreenhithe Road eastbound on-ramp, 16-18 FebruarySH18 westbound to SH16 southbound link, 19 FebruarySOUTHWESTERN MOTORWAY (SH20)Southbound lanes between Mahunga Drive off-ramp and Massey Road on-ramp, 20 February (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)Walmsley Road southbound on-ramp, 20 FebruarySH20 southbound to SH20A southbound link, 20 February (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)Please follow the signposted detours. NZ Transport Agency thanks you for your co-operation during these essential improvements and maintenance.

A rare opportunity to support our wider community!The Ahuroa Volunteer Fire Brigade invites you to a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore the iconic Gibbs Farm while supporting their vital work in the community. This special fundraising event will be held on Friday, 28th February 2025, from 10am to 2pm.Tickets are just $75 per person and are limited to 200 attendees, so be quick – these coveted spots sell out fast!TO BOOK HEAD HEREAbout Gibbs FarmLocated at 2421 Kaipara Coast Highway, Gibbs Farm is a world-renowned outdoor sculpture park that is rarely open to the public. It features a stunning collection of monumental sculptures set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Kaipara Harbour.This private property generously supports local causes, and the Ahuroa Volunteer Fire Brigade is honoured to have been chosen for this fundraising day. All proceeds from the event will directly benefit the brigade, ensuring they can continue their critical work serving the Ahuroa and surrounding communities.About the Ahuroa Volunteer Fire BrigadeThe Ahuroa Volunteer Fire Brigade is made up of locals from the community who come from a diverse range of backgrounds and occupations. Together, they work as a dedicated team to serve the area, providing essential fire and emergency services.Their first response area spans 142 square kilometres and includes farmland, forestry, native bush, waterways, farms, and roads. The brigade serves a resident population of approximately 1,140 people across 459 addresses. In addition, they provide backup support to neighbouring brigades and cover the busy stretch of State Highway 16 from Makarau to Glorit.Over the past year, the brigade has responded to more than 100 emergency calls. While the majority are medical first response cases, they also handle a variety of incidents including motor accidents, vegetation fires, structural fires, vehicle fires, fallen trees, and flooding.How the Fundraiser HelpsThe funds raised during this event will be used to purchase items that enhance training and improve the fire station, going above and beyond what is provided by Fire and Emergency New Zealand (FENZ). For example, the brigade may use the funds to buy mannequins for CPR training, new and additional furniture, or even a defibrillator for training purposes. These enhancements help ensure the brigade is well-prepared to respond to emergencies and deliver the best possible service to the community.Event DetailsDate: Friday, 28th February 2025Time: 10am – 2pmLocation: Gibbs Farm, 2421 Kaipara Coast HighwayTickets: $75 per person (limited to 200 attendees)To secure your spot, act fast! Tickets are available now, and with such high demand, they won’t last long.Important NotesGibbs Farm is a private property and only opens to the public by appointment on specific days. This is a unique chance to visit while supporting a worthy cause.Visit the Gibbs Farm website for more details about the venue: https://www.gibbsfarm.org.nz/about.phpMap to Gibbs FarmFor your convenience, here is a map to Gibbs Farm, located at 2421 Kaipara Coast HighwayDon’t miss this incredible opportunity to experience Gibbs Farm while making a meaningful contribution to the Ahuroa Volunteer Fire Brigade. Your support ensures that these dedicated volunteers can continue protecting lives and property in our community.

A remarkable conservation milestone has been reached in Rodney, Auckland, where a male kiwi has successfully traversed 14 kilometres through a protected habitat corridor to reach Kaipara Flats—an area where kiwi had vanished for decades.This extraordinary journey is a testament to the landscape-scale conservation efforts led by The Forest Bridge Trust, which has been working to create a safe and connected environment for kiwi between the east and west coasts north of Auckland. Since receiving Jobs for Nature funding through Save the Kiwi in 2020, the Trust has collaborated with over 1,000 landowners and local communities to establish extensive traplines, tipping the balance in favour of kiwi across 54,000 hectares.By the early 1970s, kiwi had virtually disappeared from the Rodney District. Decades later, determined conservation efforts led to successful reintroductions at Tāwharanui (2006), Mataia (2013), and Maunga Tamahunga (2023). The translocation of kiwi to Mataia was particularly groundbreaking, marking the first time birds were released into a working farm environment. The farm’s owners—who would go on to found The Forest Bridge Trust—envisioned a connected landscape where kiwi populations could expand and intermingle.“Our senior ecologist Dr Virginia Moreno took this vision and developed a GIS model based on the habitat needs, behaviour, and movement challenges of brown kiwi . Her study resulted in a landscape connectivity map with predictions for the routes that kiwi would use as they disperse. It also became the blueprint for how we’ve prioritised our trapping network.” says Matu Booth, Operations Manager of The Forest Bridge Trust.The results have been significant. Kiwi numbers in Rodney are increasing, with birds occasionally skirting the predator-proof fence at Tāwharanui and establishing new breeding pairs in adjacent habitats. Meanwhile, a Mataia-released kiwi was recently observed on a trail camera 7km from its original release site—precisely within one of the predicted habitat corridors.The latest wandering kiwi, first detected on a trail camera in the Dome Valley in August 2024, was confirmed on 26 January 2025 through further video footage and sound recordings. This bird, originally translocated to Maunga Tamahunga in 2023, has defied the high mortality rates common in areas lacking predator control. Its journey serves as compelling proof that trapping measures are effective and that landscape conservation is critical to protecting New Zealand’s taonga species.With Jobs for Nature funding coming to an end, maintaining these hard-won conservation gains is at risk. Continued support is essential to ensuring kiwi thrive beyond these protected areas. The Forest Bridge Trust remains committed in its mission to protect and restore New Zealand’s unique environments, but we need your support to spread the message.“We need the whole nation to get behind this ambitious mission to create a connected, protected landscape of healthy forests, waterways and thriving native wildlife alongside our nation’s biggest city,” says Ana Christmas, CEO of The Forest Bridge Trust. “Together we can ensure kiwi and other native species continue to thrive for generations to come.”Follow the progress of this ambitious conservation project and learn more about kiwi-nui North Island brown kiwi in the Rodney Auckland area here: Story Map Link.The Forest Bridge Trust are teaming up with Gibbs Farm, holding a fundraising event on the 21st March, from 10am to 2pm.For more info head to Gibbs Farm Sculpture Park Forest Bridge Trust Fundraiser

Leonard PowellMangawhai residents are still cleaning up the damage caused by the tornado that ripped through the coastal community north of Auckland in the early hours of 26 January.The storm hit at 3am on that Sunday morning, with power cut to about 5000 homes, and two people taken to hospital in a serious condition.Two weeks later, First Up visited the neighbourhood and talked to Noreen Anderson, who was sound asleep when the tornado hit and ripped off part of her roof.Despite the ruckus, she did not know the extent of the damage until the following morning."I slept through it, and it was only when my daughter over and told me 'there's been a tornado and the roof is gone'."“I went back to bed” Noreen Anderson had no idea her roof was partially ripped off until the morning. Photo: RNZ / Leonard PowellKahu Road - where Anderson lives - comes off Old Waipu Road, which was hit the hardest by the storm.Resident Bruce Howley described how the wind smashed through his barn."It blew the roller door off this barn and into the back of the barn, hitting a wall, and then it seemed to go up behind a steel beam and probably got caught. The door was actually just flattened."So you can imagine how much force that is. And then the roof, no one knows where the roof is. It's gone somewhere."Bruce Howley stands across the road from his barn. Photo: RNZ / Leonard PowellHowley resides across town, and was grateful no one was in the barn when the storm hit. He said his missing roof paled in comparison to what had happened to his friend Tina Johnson."While I was coming here I was ringing my neighbour to see if there was any damage to her place. Unbeknownst to me, she was already in hospital cause she got blown out to from a her upstairs bedroom onto her. A carport roof. Incidentally, that Lady is recovering well."At least 90 homes have been assessed for storm damage.Twenty six of those have been white-stickered, meaning they have some damage but can be safely occupied, while eight homes have been yellow-stickered, which means access is restricted.Three households remain in emergency accommodation.Howley said the community had banded together to help out."It's just amazing how everybody has been helping and always, you know, because we had no power on the street. People giving food, one couple come along with a wheelbarrow full of water. And then then people came in and helped clean the property up the next day, just volunteers."A staggering 2500 cubic metres of green waste and 37.5 tons of general waste has been collected from berms in the area.Nearly seven tonnes of scrap metal has been recycled, which might explain where Howley's roof has ended up.Bruce's barn was shared by two businesses - a signwriter and a small leather goods maker.Nearly a kilometre away on Molesworth Drive, Caren Davis was cleaning up debris the morning after the storm, when she found a brand new leather belt in her backyard."Our son quite liked it, so he he put it on for the morning that I explained to him that it it belonged to someone else and it had arrived here with the tornado. We had to find its home."The belt that Caren Davis found nearly a kilometre away from its workshop. Photo: RNZ / Leonard PowellAfter a few posts in the local Facebook group, it turned out the belt had come all the way from Bruce's place up on Old Waipu Road. Caren dropped it back off, and wasn't the only one."We're at least 700, maybe 800 metres away from where that business is. Those items were just found scattered everywhere."Davis's husband Jonny said the storm was all anyone had been talking about. Across the road from their property, trees were being dug out, chopped up and taken away.Fallen trees are cleared on Molesworth Drive. Photo: RNZ / Leonard PowellProperty owner Malcolm Halley said his housemate had a "grandstand view" of the black cloud carrying the destruction."Sam described these five electric water spouts coming from the black cloud. They were composed entirely of of spiralling lightning, continuous lightning bolts going to the ground, described as being like a tentacles of a big black octopus, dancing slowly over the over the landscape and and creating a noise destruction wherever they landed."Halley and his partner Pauline said they were still coming to terms with losing an acre and half of trees, some of them more than 100 years old.They have also lost the the privacy those trees provided - but sitting in what they describe as their "art village", Pauline had found a poetic silver lining."You know that quote of Leonard Cohen? About letting the light in. We've let the light in, and now we're getting carry on."This story was originally published by RNZ