Work on the Queen Street Riverside boardwalk is scheduled to begin on the 7th of April 2025. Masons Contractors will be carrying out the works on behalf of Auckland Council.Prior to the 7th of April, tree pruning will be completed to prepare the site before Masons establishes on-site.The project involves the removal of the existing concrete footpath and the construction of a new boardwalk to provide access from Queen Street, adjacent to Sterling Sports, to the Riverside walkway, which will connect to the underpass walkway under the Mahurangi River bridge.The estimated duration of the project is approximately four months.Here is a copy of Masons Contractors’ fencing plan below and traffic management

Victor WatersHundreds of people in Northland took to Te Ākau Bream Bay's water and beaches Sunday to protest a fast-tracked sand mining operation.A flotilla of more than 50 watercraft converged from Whangārei Heads to Langs Beach to oppose the proposal to dredge nearly 8.5 million cubic meters of sand over the next 35 years.Auckland-based sand mining company McCallum Brothers is currently in the process of applying for resource consent to extract sand. Their website states it is their way of being transparent with the public.Local residents and environmental advocates say that the operation would cause irreversible damage to the seafloor, wildlife, and coastline.Photo: Supplied / Geoff ReidMary Sinclair from Save Bream Bay Sand said it was an incredibly successful day, bringing the many affected local communities together."The energy is really, really apparent, nobody is going to give up on this process, we are here for the duration and will take all the steps we can to protect Bream Bay as it is," Sinclair said."I've been coming to Langs beach for 70 years, I'm over 70 years old, we haven't had the togetherness of this community that we've got now. Māori and non-Māori, from Langs beach right through to Whangārei Heads."If you were on the water today you would have been amazed at the connections that were being made and what people were saying to each other, the community is getting into gear and we won't stop."Photo: Supplied / Geoff ReidThe protest comes after a petition of 14,000 signatures in opposition to sand mining at Te Ākau Bream Bay was handed to Green MP Hūhana Lyndon last week.The proposed sand mining site lies five kilometres offshore from Waipū, Langs, Uretiti, and Ruakākā beaches, which are vital habitats for sea life such as tara iti (New Zealand fairy tern), where there are 40 adult birds left, and endangered hawksbill turtles have been spotted there.Sinclair said she also had concerns for the returning scallop population in Bream Bay."What they'll do they'll continue to decimate what has begun to re-grow and we'll lose them to Bream Bay."When you lose the scallops on the sea floor and lose other sea life on the sea floor then your fish start suffering, the fish have the food they need to grow and they'll disappear."You take away the fish and have an impact on all the birds, we have species like dotterel and other birds in this area which have numbers that are declining and they'll disappear."Photo: Supplied / Geoff ReidShe said mining could also impact Bream Bay's enclosed sand system."They take sand from here it will not refill from outside and then you'll start altering what happens with the waves and the water which will start altering the sand dunes."If you look at the ecological impact here they will have an impact on every part of that going forward, particularly if it's for the next 35 years."The 'Save Bream Bay Sand' advocate encouraged the McCallum Bros to look at other sand alternatives.She said sand mining from the sea floor is a practice that's declining internationally because of it's environmental impacts."We all want the New Zealand economy to grow, that's not a question, we know that for that we need concrete and need more roads."But we also know sand can be manufactured from aggregate we know that there are other sources of sand on land that are being quarried and there's no need to take it from the sea floor."This story was originally published by RNZ

Fire and Emergency says four homes had to be evacuated during a fire next to State Highway 1 in Northland's Brynderwyn Hills on Friday afternoon.Wildfire specialist Rory Renwick said the blaze, which raced through a hectare of grass and scrub, was brought under control around 5pm by six fire trucks and a helicopter.Firefighters would be working from the side of the highway for a few more hours as they put out all remaining hot spots, he said.Travellers should continue to take alternative routes around the Brynderwyns if possible, he said.It is not yet known what started the fire just before 3pm.This story was originally published by RNZ

Northland’s tsunami evacuation maps have been updated with more accurate modelling and information. These new maps better reflect how tsunamis are expected to behave as they travel across the ocean and reach our coastline.Simplified Evacuation ZonesTo make evacuation zones easier to understand, the system has been simplified from a three-colour scheme to a single colour system – the BLUE ZONE.BLUE ZONE: Tsunami Evacuation ZoneThis evacuation zone indicates the areas that should be evacuated in the event of a tsunami warning. It represents where the water could reach in a tsunami.Why Blue? The single evacuation zone is coloured blue to symbolise the potential reach of tsunami waters.REMEMBER:🔵 BLUE means GO – If a tsunami warning is issued, evacuate immediately.Know your evacuation zone – Check if your home, workplace, school, marae, or any location you visit regularly is in the BLUE ZONE.Plan your evacuation route in advance – View the updated maps here: Northland Tsunami Evacuation Maps. For those that live in Mangawhai a new warning Tsunami siren has recently been installed on Moir street just opposite the Mangawhai Domain where the tennis courts are.If an earthquake is Long or Strong: Get Gone – Don’t wait for an official warning. Move to higher ground or further inland immediately.Safe Evacuation TipsIf driving, keep going once out of the evacuation zone to allow room for others.Familiarise yourself with tsunami zones relevant to your home, workplace, or holiday destination.Create and practice a household emergency plan – Find information at: getready.govt.nz/preparedHave a getaway kit or grab bag in case you need to leave in a hurry – Find helpful resources at: getready.govt.nz/prepared/household/suppliesNow is the time to check if you live, work, or play in a tsunami evacuation zone. Be prepared, stay informed, and know your quickest route to safety!

Gianina SchwaneckeA young woman has made history after winning the tractor pull event at Northland Field Days in Dargaville over the weekend.The tractor pull event sees competitors drive a tractor over a 100 metre course pulling a weighted sledge.Drivers are tested on their skill in obtaining the best pulling speed and fastest time.Ella Martin is the first woman to win the competition in it's almost 40-year history.Coming from a family of contractor tractor and truck drivers, she learned to drive a tractor with her older brothers' help at age 12.The now 17-year-old first entered the competition last year after watching them compete.Martin said most of the young men she was competing against in this year's race were her friends."Being the only girl was quite intimidating," she admitted.After winning her first race she started to feel better though and was "stoked" to be named a finalist.Ella Martin learned to drive a tractor with her brothers' help at age 12 and first entered the competition last year after watching them compete.Taking out the top title left her "quite speechless" and with the "biggest smile on her face".Martin attributed her win to a solid start."It all sort of depends on how you start. Because if you have a good start and make all the right gear changes up the track you can be pretty successful. The start is probably key to everything."She has been building her experience working part-time driving tractors for friends which is helping fund her midwifery studies at Auckland University of Technology (AUT)."I'm sort of ready to get back into a tractor," she said. "It's pretty cool being able to drive a tractor and it's good to have it to fall back on when I go home for breaks and that."Martin encouraged other people, especially young women, to give it a go.This story was originally published by RNZ

Northland Expressway: A Major Investment in Regional GrowthThe development of the four-lane Northern Expressway is set to enhance Northland’s resilience while supporting future growth in the region.The Government will officially open Registrations of Interest for the first stage of the Northland Expressway at the NZ Infrastructure Investment Summit, starting today, as announced by Transport Minister Chris Bishop.The new expressway aims to improve connectivity between Northland and Auckland by providing a resilient, safe, and efficient transport corridor. This infrastructure project is expected to stimulate economic growth, increase productivity, and improve living standards for both Northlanders and Aucklanders.The Waikato Expressway, completed under a previous National-led Government, has significantly benefited the Waikato region. Similarly, the Northland Expressway presents a transformative opportunity to create jobs and drive economic expansion in Northland while strengthening its link to New Zealand’s largest city.The upper North Island plays a crucial role in New Zealand’s economy, with Northland, Auckland, Waikato, and Bay of Plenty collectively representing 53.7 per cent of the country’s population (2.7 million people) and contributing 55.5 per cent of GDP ($215 billion). This project is positioned as a strategic investment not only in Northland but also in the broader upper North Island region.Project Scope and TimelineThe first stage of the Northland Expressway will cover a 26km stretch from Warkworth to Te Hana. This section will be built to expressway standards and will integrate with the newly completed Pūhoi to Warkworth Expressway. The indicative design includes an 850m twin-bore tunnel through the Dome Valley, as well as three key interchanges located at Warkworth, Wellsford, and Te Hana.The Warkworth to Te Hana segment is the most advanced in terms of designation, consents, and property acquisition, allowing construction to commence ahead of other sections. This stage of the project will also address resilience issues in the Dome Valley.NZTA is continuing to plan and design the remaining sections of the corridor, with an announcement on the preferred route for Sections 2 and 3, including an alternative to the Brynderwyn Hills, expected soon.Significant international interest has been recorded in the Warkworth to Te Hana project following extensive market engagement by NZTA. Cabinet has approved the next stage of procurement, confirming that the project will be delivered as a Public-Private Partnership (PPP).Procurement and Construction TimelineFormal procurement will begin with the Registration of Interest process, allowing registered parties to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI). Shortlisted bidders will be invited to submit formal expressions of interest in the middle of the year. A Request for Proposal (RFP) is scheduled for mid-2025, with up to three shortlisted bidders expected. A preferred bidder will be announced in early 2026, and the PPP contract is anticipated to be finalised by mid-2026.Detailed design and construction for the Warkworth to Te Hana section are set to begin in late 2026. While the final completion date will be determined following the procurement process, the project is estimated to be completed around 2034.The Northland Expressway is expected to utilise provisions from the Fast-track Approvals Act and the recently announced Public Works Act changes for critical infrastructure projects.This investment is a significant milestone for Northland’s development, unlocking economic potential while providing long-term opportunities for the infrastructure sector. The project is also expected to strengthen New Zealand’s supply chain and enhance regional connectivity for decades to come.

Metlifecare has officially commenced groundworks for Mangawhai’s first retirement village at 15 Sailrock Drive - just north of the Golf Club.Earthworks have begunSet on 13 hectares, the development will feature 160 single-level living units and a 45-bed hospital-level care home. Once completed, it is expected to employ around 50 staff, including managers, nurses, kitchen staff, and gardeners.The village is scheduled to open in 2026 for its first residents but not fully completed until 2029. It is being designed with sustainability in mind; the villas will aim for a Homestar 7 rating from the New Zealand Green Building Council (NZGBC), incorporating eco-friendly features such as solar panels.This project marks a significant milestone for Mangawhai, providing much-needed retirement and aged care facilities for the growing community.Artists impression

We’re excited to introduce our new Health / Beauty and Shop Local - Warkworth business directory listings on the Matakana Coast App! Check them out by clicking on the links below and support local!Health/ BeautyKōwhai Coast Dental offers expert, patient-focused care in a modern Warkworth clinic. Led by locals Les and Yogi, the team provides a full range of dental services using state-of-the-art technology. Their services include general dentistry, hygiene therapy, crowns, teeth whitening, implants, and wisdom tooth removal. With a commitment to comfort and quality, they create a welcoming environment for all patients.Pavilion Barbers & Perfume Bar in Snells Beach offers professional haircuts for all ages with no appointment necessary. They also feature a dedicated perfume bar and a range of hair products for men and women. Open daily from 9:30 am to 6:00 pm.Warkworth Naturopath, led by Jasmin, a qualified naturopath and medical herbalist with over 25 years of experience, specialises in holistic health for women over 50. Combining naturopathy, herbal medicine, and functional testing, she helps clients regain energy, balance, and clarity. Jasmin also offers Soul Centre Healing Hypnosis and wellness programs tailored to individual needs. Services are available online or in person in Matakana.Hydro Health NZ supplies the Happy Bum Co at-home enema range, helping clients detoxify, rebuild, and nurture their bodies naturally. Led by Janice Hamilton, a specialist in colon hydrotherapy supplies, Hydro Health offers high-quality enema kits and nutritional detox products to support overall well-being.Shop Local - Warkworth Tuck In Healthy Pet Food & Supplies is a Warkworth family-owned business dedicated to providing premium, whole pet foods and nutritional supplements. Specialising in raw food, premium dry food, treats, bones, and wellness products, they help pet owners create perfectly balanced diets for their furry companions. With a passion for pet health, their team offers expert advice and high-quality nutrition to support happy, healthy pets.

Auckland’s historic Puhoi Hotel has received a significant funding boost from Auckland Council’s Regional Historic Heritage Grant, securing $50,000 for much-needed restoration work. This funding will go towards repairing the roof, refurbishing the verandah, and repainting the exterior, ensuring the hotel maintains its historical character while remaining a welcoming space for visitors and the local community.The Puhoi Hotel, established in the late 19th century, is a key landmark in the small, historic settlement north of Auckland. Originally built in 1876 by Bohemian settler John Schollum, the current structure dates back to 1901. Over the decades, it has served as both a social hub and a vital link to the region’s European settler history. The latest restoration efforts will help preserve its unique architecture and heritage, reinforcing its role as an essential part of Puhoi’s identity.Bernie McCallion has owned the historic inn since 2020, when she bought it from Gillian Seymour, whose family had been landlords since 1962.As well as great location, the pub is well-known for its massive collection of memorabilia that smothers the walls of the bar, with everything from antique signs and tools to old bottles and bank notes filling every inch of space.Alongside the Puhoi Hotel, the Kentish Hotel in Waiuku was also granted funding, receiving $48,435 for maintenance and preservation. Built in 1852, the Kentish Hotel holds the distinction of having New Zealand’s longest continuous liquor licence. While both establishments have historical significance, the grant ensures that the Puhoi Hotel remains a centrepiece of its community, preserving its charm for future generations.Auckland Council has allocated a total of $530,000 across 21 heritage sites in the region as part of its broader initiative to protect and restore historic buildings.

Police are asking the public's help to locate a 14-year-old girl last seen at school in Auckland on Thursday.Skyla is 14 years old, 175cm tall, and was last seen in Albany on Thursday.Police and her family are concerned for her welfare and want to know that she is safe, police said.In a Facebook post, her mother said, "She was last seen when I dropped her off at school at 8:35 AM on Thursday, 6 March, but she left the school grounds at 8:50 AM before classes began."If you have any information regarding her whereabouts, please contact police online or call 105, and reference the file number 250306/9445.This story was originally published by RNZ

The Warkworth A&P Lifestyle Show is set to take place on Saturday, 15 March 2025, at the Warkworth Showgrounds, located on State Highway 1, Warkworth, Auckland. The event will run from 9:00 am to 4:30 pm.The Warkworth A&P Lifestyle Show aims to promote excellence in agriculture and to bring the country closer to town, showcasing rural life. Attendees can look forward to traditional A&P Show events, including wood chopping, sheep shearing, cattle displays, miniature horses, donkeys and mules, and mounted games. The event will feature a variety of attractions and activities:Centre Stage & Family Fun: Performances throughout the day include Mahu College Kapa Haka at 10:00 am, line dancing at 10:30 am, Tung Tek Lion Dance at 11:30 am and 1:00 pm, live music by Kenny Luond & Marty Henderson at 12:00 pm, and a performance by the Kiribati Group at 2:10 pm. Quick-fire raffles are scheduled at 11:00 am and 1:20 pm, with silent auction winners announced at 2:30 pm and the Truck Show winner at 3:00 pm. Fun Zone: Children can enjoy free all-day rides and entertainment, including tea cups, a merry-go-round, a giant slide, a 70-meter inflatable obstacle course, cow milking, and calf feeding.Indoor Section: Exhibits of traditional baked goods, crafts, produce, and children's creations will be on display. Truck Show: A highlight of the event, the Truck Show offers a $200 cash prize for the People's Choice award. Tickets are available at the gate, with EFTPOS and cash options on the day. Admission prices are $15 for adults, $5 for children aged 5 to 12, and free for children under 5. A family pass, which includes entry for two adults and up to four children, is available for $35. For more information, visit the official website

All outdoor fires will be banned across the whole of Northland Region from midnight Saturday 8th March until further notice because of the high fire danger and extreme fire conditionsHere's what you need to know:Areas where a Restricted Fire Season was in place are all moving to a Prohibited Fire Season.No outdoor fires are allowed, even if you already have a permit to light a fire on your property.We also ask people to pause outdoor activities that create sparks until there has been significant rain. That includes grinding and welding outside, using chainsaws or mowing.Why? It's so hot, dry and often windy that fires are getting out of control very quickly and are hard for firefighters to put out. It only takes one spark to start a fire in these conditions. People have the best of intentions, but the consequences are severe. We hope the community will get behind us on this.Wherever you are in New Zealand, go to checkitsalright.nz to find out what fire restrictions apply to your location, and for advice on how to protect your whānau and whenua from wildfires.

Adapting to the Season AheadIt’s hard to believe we’re already heading into autumn. The cooler nights are certainly welcome, making for easier sleeping.The changing seasons are also evident in our local shops, with many retailers offering big summer sales. If you haven’t already, now’s a great time to grab a bargain and get set for next summer—though I expect my summer body will look much the same next year!// Economic Update: Warkworth Holding StrongDespite the economic challenges faced by many businesses, Warkworth’s economy showed resilience in January 2025, with local spending up 3.3% and transactions up 3.2% compared to the same time last year. This is significantly stronger than the overall Auckland region, which only saw a 0.4% increase in spending and a 1.3% rise in transactions. Over the past 12 months, our precinct’s spending has grown by 8.3%, while Auckland as a whole experienced a 1.3% decline.This tells us that our local economy is performing better than many other parts of the city. The influx of visitors over the summer months has certainly helped, as has strong spending in key areas such as general consumer goods. However, some industries, including apparel and personal services, have seen declines, reminding us that challenges remain. (See the summary report below for more details)// Supporting Local BusinessesWe recently ran the Business Health Check Survey 2024/25, and the results were clear—times are tough, but opportunities exist to strengthen and support our local business community. Rising costs, reduced consumer spending, and workforce shortages were identified as key challenges, and business confidence is understandably cautious.However, the survey also highlighted areas where businesses are looking for practical support, with strong interest in digital marketing training, customer experience insights, financial management advice, and networking opportunities. (See survey summary below)In response, we’ll be rolling out a series of business support workshops in the coming months, focused on the areas that matter most to you. Whether it’s sharpening your online presence, learning how to use AI for efficiency, or improving cash flow management, we’ll be working to provide useful, hands-on sessions that can make a difference. Keep an eye out for details soon.// Upcoming Public Meeting with WatercareAnother important date to note is Tuesday, 2 April, when One Mahurangi is hosting a public meeting at the Warkworth Town Hall with Watercare. The Project Director, designers, and contractors will be there to discuss the upcoming works in town and answer your questions. This is your chance to hear the facts directly, rather than relying on rumours. Doors open at 5:30 pm, with the presentation starting at 6 pm. We’ll also hold a separate meeting for Elizabeth Street businesses later in the month to address their specific concerns. More details to follow.// Looking AheadSo, what will the season ahead bring for your business? Winter often means less foot traffic, making advertising more challenging. Perhaps it’s worth teaming up with neighbouring businesses to combine your advertising budget—you might get more impact together than you would alone. It’s always worth exploring new ideas.In the meantime, we still have some warm days and balmy nights to enjoy. Let’s make the most of them and remember the strength of our local community: We are Stronger Together.Buy local. Support local. Employ local. Love local. Murray ChapmanManager, One Mahurangi, [email protected] Consumer Spending Summary for Jan 2025The One Mahurangi, Warkworth BID area saw a 3.3% rise in spending this January, reaching $29.3 million, with transactions up 3.2%. This growth outpaced both the Auckland region and national trends, continuing a strong 12-month increase of 8.3% in local spending. The busiest day was 10 January, while international spending saw the biggest jump (+39.7%). However, apparel sales declined, and spending from North Shore City dropped. These insights highlight key opportunities for local businesses. For a deeper look at the trends, check out the full Marketview report on our website HERE>Business Health Check Survey ResultsHow is business looking for Warkworth? We asked, and you answered. The 2024 Business Health Check Survey gathered insights from local businesses on the challenges, opportunities, and support they need most. Rising costs, reduced consumer spending, and digital marketing struggles stood out as key concerns—but the survey also highlighted areas where businesses see opportunities for growth. To see what your fellow business owners had to say and where support is most needed, read the report summary HERE>Has your business been affected by the misuse of market power?If your business is struggling to compete because of the actions of a powerful business, the behaviour of that business may be illegal.READ MORE HERE>You can now follow the Warkworth Information Centre on Facebook and Instagram! @visitwarkworthExplore Warkworth, Mahurangi, and beyond!There will be a public meeting in the Warkworth Town Hall with Watercare on April 2nd, 2025. Doors open at 5:30 pm, meeting starts at 6 pm.MORE DETAILS TO FOLLOWVisit onemahurangi.co.nz for the latest Watercare updatesFree Webinar: Where to from here? Workforce planning under INZs 2025 rulesJoin People Inc for a free session on workforce planning, recruitment, and immigration solutions. Whether you’re expanding or facing staffing challenges, get expert insights to build a future-ready team. Register here:  Where to from here? Workforce planning under INZ's 2025 rules Tickets, Thu 13 Mar 2025 at 12:00 | EventbriteFOR THE FULL NEWSLETTER PLEASE HEAD HERE --->>

Please attribute to Acting Detective Senior Sergeant Shane Pilmer, Whangārei CIB:Police investigating an incident involving an injured five-month-old baby in Dargaville have today made an arrest.A 22-year-old man has been charged with wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm and will appear in Whangārei District Court tomorrow.The arrest come after the baby was presented at Dargaville Hospital with serious head injuries on 28 December.The baby was flown to Whangārei Hospital and later transferred to Starship Hospital in Auckland.The baby is now recovering well.As this matter is now before the Courts, Police don't have any further comment.

Did you know that nearly 10% of all packaging material is made up of caps and lids?!It’s estimated that around 16,000 tonnes of caps and lids are in circulation annually—that’s the equivalent of 900 truckloads of waste. Shockingly, 60% of household grocery items come with a cap or lid to keep products safe and secure.That’s a huge amount of waste that could be recycled. But due to changes in kerbside recycling regulations introduced by the government in February, these materials are now ending up in landfills.Despite being made of valuable plastic and metal, caps and lids are no longer accepted in kerbside recycling collections.However, there’s good news! The Caps & Lids Recycling Programme, launched this month, aims to divert as many metal and plastic caps and lids as possible from landfills, ensuring they are recycled into new products instead.This 100% member-funded initiative is managed by The Packaging Forum, which also oversees other recycling schemes such as the Soft Plastic Recycling Scheme, the Food and Beverage Container Recycling Scheme, and the Glass Packaging Forum Scheme.Several industry groups support this effort, including the NZ Food and Grocery Council, Plastics NZ, and the NZ Association of Metal Recyclers.Metal caps are sent to local recyclers like Hayes Metals, Simms Metals, and the Association of Metal Recyclers for processing and reuse.Plastic lids are collected by PACT Recycling in Auckland, where they are granulated, washed, and dried. They are then shipped to Australia for further sorting and recycling into products like wheelie bins, flower pots, slipsheets, and cable covers.This programme offers a sustainable solution, giving these caps and lids a second life instead of sending them to landfills.Photo: Mangawhai Heads Four Squares new collection boxes.Currently, there are only two official collection points on The Caps & Lids webiste, however we have also added a few that we are aware of below - totally four. We need more businesses to come onboard to help us reduce the amount of recyclable waste that would otherwise go to landfill.Collection Locations:New World Albany: 219 Don McKinnon Drive, AlbanyFour Square Mangawhai Heads: 3 Wood Street, Mangawhai HeadsPak'n'Save Warkworth - 12 Hudson Road, Warkworth, 0910Less Waste Warkworth: 55 Lawrie Road, Warkworth (FYI they have a fantastic op shop on site!) - Wednesday to Saturday 9am – 3pmLess Waste Wellsford: 47 Station Rd, Wellsford - Tuesday 9am – 3pm & Saturday 9am – 1pmWe hope more supermarkets and businesses will join the initiative to provide this crucial recycling service.So what can be recycled?** PLEASE REMEMBER to keep PLASTICS and METAL separate, as they go in different bins!!Plastics accepted at collection points:Flip-top/hinged capsScrew capsMilk bottle capsIce cream container lidsYoghurt and dip lids (no peel-off film)Supplement bottle lidsHousehold cleaning lidsShampoo and cosmetic lidsPlease note: No coffee cup lids or glass.Metals accepted at collection points:Crown caps (bottle caps)Jar lidsRing pull capsWire from sparkling drink bottlesMetal screw topsAluminium lidsWine lidsFood tin lidsPlease note: No coffee pods.For more information, visit their website: https://capslids.recycling.kiwi.nzLet’s help spread the word! Please encourage local businesses, especially supermarkets, to participate in this vital programme and help reduce our environmental impact.

Police are seeking information to identify a man sought as part of an ongoing investigation.Detective Senior Sergeant Kathy Bostock, from Auckland City CIB, says the incident is sensitive in nature and occurred in the Auckland City area last year.“As part of the investigation we have located footage of a man we would like to speak with as part of the investigation,” she says.“Despite further enquiries being made into this footage we have so far been unable to identify him.“The public will in no doubt know who he is, and I would encourage them to contact us.”Detective Senior Sergeant Bostock also encourages the man himself to make contact with Police.Please contact Police online now or call 105 using the reference number 240616/3973.Information can also be provided anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.

Northland woman Tina Johnson has shared her extraordinary story of survival after a tornado completely destroyed her Mangawhai home, leaving her seriously injured and her property in ruins.Johnson was asleep in her second-storey bedroom on Old Waipu Road around 3am on January 26 when she woke to the sound of an approaching tornado. Within seconds, she and the mattress she was on were sucked into the tornado’s vortex, lifted and spun through the air, before being thrown from her home and landing on top of her metal shed. The bedroom roof then collapsed on top of her.Despite her injuries, she was able to call for help, with neighbours quickly coming to her aid. Reaching her was challenging for emergency crews due to the debris and destruction blocking the roads. She was carried down the road before being transported to Mangawhai Heads Beach, where she was airlifted by helicopter to Auckland Hospital.Johnson suffered serious injuries, including a broken bone protruding from her wrist and significant damage to her leg. She has undergone multiple surgeries and faces a long recovery. She is currently using a wheelchair but is making progress, with hopes of being discharged soon.Kaipara Mayor Craig Jepson visited Tina in hospital in February - the KFC and a beer was very welcomed!However, with her home completely destroyed and now being demolished, Johnson has no house to return to. She plans to move in with friends in Mangawhai once she leaves hospital and is incredibly grateful for the support shown by her community and strangers throughout her recovery.A Givealittle page, set up by her neighbour to support her recovery, has so far raised more than $5800. Funds donated will go towards her recovery and living expenses until she is fit and healthy again. ACC will provide some financial assistance.To donate, visit the Givealittle page here:https://givealittle.co.nz/cause/mangawhai-tornado-destroys-tinas-home-and-leaves

Peter de GraafA man has been charged over the death of a woman who was fatally shot at a Whangārei park last week.The 63-year-old man was charged in a bedside court hearing at Auckland Hospital today.He is accused of murdering Yvonne Chapman, 66, at Beach Road Reserve in the seaside suburb of Onerahi on Thursday.Gunshots were heard at about 11.10am, and Chapman was found dead at the scene when police arrived, with a man also found with serious injuries.Acting Detective Senior Sergeant Shane Pilmer said nobody else was being sought over the incident."We are pleased to have been able to arrest someone in relation to this tragic incident."I would also like to thank those members of the public who provided information, which was crucial to this investigation."Police at the scene of the shooting last week. Photo: RNZ / Nick MonroThe man is currently under police guard at Auckland Hospital and has been remanded in custody to reappear in the Whangārei District Court later this month.RNZ understands the pair had been in a relationship.Chapman, from Parua Bay, has been described by family members as a much-loved mother and grandmother.In a tribute on social media one of her sons said: "She touched the lives of so many with her kindness and love, she was a precious taonga to us and will be terribly missed."He also spoke of the family's deep sorrow, and the outpouring of love and support from friends and the wider family.A funeral service will be held in Whangārei on Wednesday morning.The shooting, which took place near a busy playground frequented by local children, has shocked Onerahi residents.This story was originally published by RNZ

Speed Limits ConsultationNZTA is currently consulting in several regions across the country from 30 January to 13 March 2025 to gauge public support for maintaining reduced speed limits at specific state highway locations.Unless there is clear public support to keep these lower limits, NZTA is required to revert the affected locations back to their previous speed limits by 1 July 2025.In Auckland, the consultation focuses on two sections of interregional state highway on State Highway 1, located north of Auckland:Between south of Dome Valley andThe northern end of the Ara Tūhono–Pūhoi to Warkworth motorway.Following the consultation period, NZTA will share the results along with future dates for any confirmed speed limit changes in Auckland during 2025.For more information: 📄 [Download the Auckland speed limits consultation info sheet (PDF, 881 KB)]🔔 Subscribe to updates to stay informed.To learn more about the Setting of Speed Limits Rule 2024 and other locations undergoing auto-reversal, please visit NZTA’s website.Have your say on Auckland speed limitsThe public is invited to share feedback on one or both of the following locations: 🚗 SH1 South of Dome Valley 🚗 SH1 Warkworth NorthPlease note: Feedback regarding other auto-reversal corridors cannot be submitted through this consultation survey. However, NZTA encourages feedback on other areas via email at [email protected] for consideration in future speed reviews.TO START THE SURVEY