When Awanui farmer, Kevin Matthews, spotted an unusual plant in the sand dunes on Te Oneroa-a-Tōhe - Ninety Mile Beach, he knew he was looking at a highly invasive and toxic weed known as sea spurge.Harmful to humans and animals, the Africa and Asia native is causing major environmental damage on the coasts of Western Australia and Tasmania and is starting to appear on New Zealand shores. In this video Ceres Sharp, Biosecurity Officer with Northland Regional Council explains why sea spurge (Euphorbia paralias) is a threat and why pulling it out of the ground is the last thing you should do when you find it on the beach or in the dunes. A nation-wide programme to stop sea spurge spreading is being led by the Ministry for Primary Industries, partnered with regional councils and the Department of Conservation. If you find sea spurge, please call the Ministry for Primary Industries pest and diseases hotline on 0800 80 99 66 – and your local Northland Regional Council office – or please click on this link to report it, as soon as possible: Sea spurge - Pest control hub - Northland Regional Council (nrc.govt.nz)

Persistence Pays OffOver 18 months ago, I reached out to NZTA regarding the lack of signage before the Pūhoi off-ramp that identified it as an alternative route to Warkworth. I was told that the existing signage was adequate. However, given the impact on businesses in Warkworth—particularly at The Grange—when the motorway opened, I believed that promoting the old route as an option for travelers, especially tourists who would enjoy a slower journey, was important.I kept at it, phoning and emailing every month, even reaching out to NZTA Board members Tracy Martin and Victoria Carter. Finally, in December, I received an email confirming that they had reconsidered and would be erecting new signage. I was thrilled and confident that we’d soon see the signs in place. After persistent follow-ups since February, the signs are finally up. It’s hard to say exactly what effect this will have, but I’m hopeful we’ll see more traffic coming into town from the south instead of bypassing us.The reason I share this is because it highlights that persistence does pay off. Sometimes, whether in business or dealing with government agencies, you have to keep pushing to get the results you want.As a Business Association, we rely on feedback from our members to understand what you need from us—be it with more educational support through seminars, additional networking opportunities, or something we haven’t yet considered or had the funds to provide. That’s why our current Business Health Check survey is so important. We need your input to deliver the best products and services within our budget or to find ways to fund whatever it is that will help your business thrive.Please take a moment to fill out the survey below so we can set the right priorities for you.Also, our AGM 2024 is coming up on the 25th of September. Now, I know the thought of an AGM might not exactly fill you with excitement, but sometimes it’s all about changing your perspective.Think of it as a networking opportunity—it doesn’t take long, and you’ll get a chance to find out what’s been happening with the town over the last 12 months. We’d love to see more of you there. Just remember, to vote, you need to be a BID Affiliate member (either a commercial landowner or a business renting within the BID area) or an Associate member if you work from home or are outside the BID area.Membership forms will be available on the night or can be downloaded from our website. > onemahurangi.co.nz/join-one-mahurangiI look forward to seeing you all there. And remember, persistence pays off—never give up!Murray Chapman- Manager, One Mahurangi Business AssociationEmail: [email protected] read the full newsletter head here

Warkworth / Rodney RegionThursday 28th August - A few showers, turning to rain this evening, possibly heavy with squally thunderstorms in the west. Strong northwesterlies.Friday 29th August - Isolated showers clearing to fine before dawn. High cloud increasing in the evening. Westerlies, easing in the evening.Saturday 30th August - A few showers, turning to rain at night. Northerlies, becoming fresh in the morning.Sunday 31st August - Showers, some heavy, clearing to fine in the morning. Fresh northwesterlies, turning lighter southwesterly in the morning.Mangawhai / Kaipara RegionThursday 28th August - Showers, turning to rain this evening, possibly heavy with squally thunderstorms. Northwesterlies, fresh at times.Friday 29th August - Cloudy with the chance of a shower, clearing to fine before dawn. High cloud increasing in the evening. Light winds.Saturday 30th August - Mostly cloudy, with a few showers developing in the morning. Northerlies, becoming fresh in the morning.Sunday 31st August - Showers, some heavy, clearing to fine in the morning. Westerlies, easing in the afternoon.

Matakana Cemetery Stories - The Lost Sons One Sunday we visited the Boyd's Hill Cemetery on Kawau Island to find young Allan Wallace's grave. He was the infant son of George Wallace who lies in the Wallace Family Plot in Matakana Cemetery.George Wallace was born in Matakana in 1858, his father was George Blair Allan Wallace and his mother Mary Davies. Both, from Lockwinnoch, Renfrewshire, Lowlands of Scotland. George senior and his wife immigrated to New Zealand in 1855 aboard the barque "Cornubia". Also onboard were Mary's father, Hugh Davis and his family along with George Fraser.  They all came to New Zealand to work at Matthew Whytlaw's Flax Linen mill on the banks of Glen Eden River, Matakana. Around 1875 George junior now 15 years of age is working on Kawau Island as a gardener for Sir George Grey and this is where he met his wife Florence Creighton, who was working in the Grey's House (Mansion House). This is the grave of their first-born child - Allan Wallace.Alan Wallace NZ Engineers service no: 4/72A. Died from his wounds received at Gallipoli. Their fifth child they also named Alan, sadly was killed at Gallipoli, his memorial can be found at Lone Pine and Bertram. He was a Rhodes Scholar, a brilliant young man, tragically lost to us.Bertram Wallace: Buried at Cite Bonjean Military Cemetery, Armentieres, FranceBertram Wallace, their 6th child was killed in France. A Gunner in WW1, New Zealand Field Artillery, 4th (Howitzer) Battery. Killed in action 14 July 1916 Somme, Northern France at only age 22.Today we remember them all. Lest we forget.

The Environmental Protection Authority has issued an urgent alert for people to stop using weedkiller because of significant concerns about its effects on unborn children.The EPA began investigating Dacthal or DCPA herbicides last week after they were pulled off shelves in the United States.It is now urging people to avoid the herbicide, which is used to control annual grasses and broadleaf weeds in vegetable growing globally.Hazardous Substances Reassessments Manager Dr Shaun Presow said it issued the alert because it had serious concerns about the potential risks to people's health."We urge anyone currently using a product containing chlorthal-dimethyl to stop and to consider alternatives."If people can't avoid using these products, the EPA advises they take all precautions to avoid exposure for people who are pregnant or could be pregnant."This includes restricting access to sprayed areas and making sure nobody else is around during spraying Presow said.The US Environmental Protection Agency found a risk of thyroid hormone changes in the unborn children of pregnant bystanders, women who apply chlorthal-dimethyl, or those who enter treated fields after the substance has been applied.These changes can cause low birth weight and irreversible and lifelong impacts, such as impaired brain development and motor skills.Presow said the EPA had set up a working group to look at how this herbicide is being used here, and to take rapid action to ensure it continued protecting people's health and safety."While this is happening, we have put out a red alert to ensure the public is aware of the potential risks."Presow said The EPA is consulting with those likely to be affected by any proposed additional rules around the use DCPA herbicides.Horticulture New Zealand said Dacthal was outdated and the vast majority of growers preferred to use newer herbicides.This story was originally published by RNZ

Police are appealing to the public for information about a vehicle of interest as part of an investigation into a Dargaville woman’s death.Enquiries are still ongoing into the unexplained death of Joanna (Jo) Mai Sione-Lauaki, 38, who was discovered between Omamari Beach and Aranga Beach on Friday 2 August.Detective Senior Sergeant Aaron Crawford, Northland CIB, says Police are now seeking information and sightings regarding of a vehicle of interest.The vehicle is a white 2012 Toyota Hilux flat deck Ute, with no registration plates, with an orange hazard light on the roof and aluminium dog cages on the back.“We believe this vehicle to have been in the same area where Jo’s body was discovered.“Police would like to hear from anyone who saw this vehicle leading up to and around Friday 1 August in the Baylys or Omamari beach areas near Dargaville.“Anyone who saw this vehicle, or has any dashcam footage of this vehicle from that day is urged to come forward.”Detective Senior Sergeant Crawford says Police are continuing to work hard to piece together the events leading up to Jo’s death and any information, no matter how small could assist in bring the case to a close.If you were in these areas between these times and have any photos or videos which may be relevant, please upload them here: https://cloth.nc3.govt.nzAnyone with information can call Police on 105 and quote file number 240803/9062.Alternatively, if you would like to speak to a member of the investigation team in person you can present to the Dargaville Police Station.Information can also be provided anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.

Officers at a roadside breath-test checkpoint have disrupted an alleged kidnapping in Northland on Saturday night, leading to the arrest of two men.An investigation is now under way to untangle details of the night’s events.What is known is that about 10.50pm on 24 August, officers in the Impairment Prevention Team were running a checkpoint on Riverside Drive in Whangārei when an occupant jumped out of a car and raised concerning claims.Based on the information, Police quickly arrested the driver, a 31-year-old patched member of the Crips, who was the only other occupant of the car.Police spoke with the driver and his passenger before turning their focus to a Eureka Place address, where two more people were allegedly being held against their will.A significant operation involving the Armed Offenders Squad, Police Negotiation Team and Criminal Investigation Branch was launched.The address was kept under observation while an armed response was prepared.About midnight, a vehicle was seen leaving the address, running over road spikes laid in advance.The vehicle was pursued and continued at speed, before stopping at a carpark in the city, where the sole occupant, a 22-year-old man and Patched Nomad gang member, was taken into custody.Two victims were located inside the Eureka Place address and established no offenders were outstanding.Whangārei Area Commander Inspector Maria Nordstrom says the incident was unpredictable and the victim at the checkpoint showed great courage by raising the alarm.“The officers at that checkpoint went from carrying out breath-tests to dealing with an active kidnapping in the blink of an eye.They have not wasted a moment to act on what were very concerning claims.“I’m proud of the response and how the officers involved brought a potentially dangerous event to a safe resolution, with no injuries to any of the parties involved.“The investigation team will continue to speak to those involved today and charges are likely once we establish the motives behind this event.”

Warkworth / Rodney RegionMonday 26th August - Cloudy periods. Isolated showers developing this afternoon. Northwesterlies.Tuesday 27th August - Showers, easing in the afternoon. Fresh northerlies, turning westerly in the morning.Wednesday 28th August - Mainly fine, a few showers. Fresh westerlies, easing in the afternoon.Thursday 29th August - The odd shower, turning to rain late. Fresh northwesterlies.Friday 30th August - Rain, clearing and becoming fine. Southerlies.Saturday 31st August - Showers. Northerlies.Sunday 1st September - A few showers with westerlies.Mangawhai / Northland RegionMonday 26th August - Cloudy periods, chance of a shower from afternoon. Northwesterlies.Tuesday 27th August - Showers, clearing to partly cloudy in the afternoon. Fresh northerlies, turning lighter westerly in the morningWednesday 28th August - Partly cloudy. Fresh westerlies, easing in the afternoon.Thursday 29th August - A few showers, turning to rain late. Fresh northwesterlies.Friday 30th August - Showers, clearing to partly cloudy weather. Southwesterlies.Saturday 31st August - Showers. Northwesterlies.Sunday 1st September - A few showers with westerlies.

Hato Hone St John says Saturday's rolling strikes by ambulance drivers took place without any harm to patients.The 24-hour action by members of FIRST Union and the Ambulance Association finished at 4am on Sunday.St John deputy chief executive Dan Ohs said the ambulance service was helped by people with non urgent matters who found their own transport to a medical facility or hospital, or called their doctor, pharmacy or Healthline."Despite a challenging day, Hato Hone St John has not yet identified any adverse incidents or patient harm resulting from strikes throughout Saturday," Ohs told RNZ late on Saturday night."Our focus throughout the day was to maintain a safe level of service for New Zealanders and we would like to thank our own people who have contributed to this effort."The strike followed similar industrial action earlier in the week, the first ever carried out by ambulance workers. Ohs said about 300 ambulance workers and call-centre staff took part in the Tuesday strike, and about 250 on Saturday.Like other essential health services, ambulance services are covered by the Life Preserving Services framework, which required ambulance providers and unions to work constructively to maintain core services that prevent a serious threat to life or permanent disability during strike action.Unions have warned more strike action was likely, unless the government came up with more cash for ambulance services.Ohs said the focus next was on "getting back to the bargaining table next week to discuss moving forward with our unions".The charity would also be seeking more funding from the government in 2026, rather than relying on donations to pay its bills. At present, about 83 percent is taxpayer-funded."The rest is funded by fundraising, part-charge, and commercial activities," Ohs said."We are grateful for what we have received from our purchasers in recent years, which has enabled more frontline staff. However, the cost to run the ambulance service has been significantly affected by high inflation and increased demand."We remain focused on getting our people back to work and moving towards 100 percent operational funding."This story was originally posted on RNZ News

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, 30 August 2024.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)Southbound lanes between Orewa off-ramp and Silverdale on-ramp, 25-26 AugustOrewa southbound on-ramp, 25-26 AugustMillwater southbound on-ramp, 25-26 AugustNorthbound lanes between Silverdale off-ramp and Orewa on-ramp, 25-26 AugustSilverdale northbound on-ramp, 25-26 AugustCENTRAL MOTORWAY JUNCTION (CMJ)Grafton Road eastbound on-ramp, 25-29 August (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)SOUTHERN MOTORWAY (SH1)Khyber Pass Road northbound off-ramp, 25 AugustGillies Avenue northbound on-ramp, 25 AugustEllerslie-Panmure Highway northbound off-ramp, 25 AugustNorthbound lanes between Manukau off-ramp and East Tamaki Road on-ramp, 27 & 29 August (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)Te Irirangi Drive northbound on-ramp, 27 & 29 AugustRedoubt Road northbound on-ramp, 27 & 29 AugustSouthbound lanes between Takanini off-ramp and Drury/SH22 on-ramp, 25-28 August (approx. 9:30pm to 5:30am)Takanini southbound on-ramp, 25-28 August (approx. 9:00pm to 5:30am)Papakura (Loop) southbound on-ramp, 25-28 August (approx. 9:00pm to 5:30am)Papakura (Diamond) southbound on-ramp, 25-28 August (approx. 9:00pm to 5:30am)Southbound lanes between Papakura off-ramp and Drury/SH22 on-ramp, 23 August (approx. 10:00pm to 5:30am)Papakura (Loop) southbound on-ramp, 23 August (approx. 9:00pm to 5:30am)Papakura (Diamond) southbound on-ramp, 23 August (approx. 9:00pm to 5:30am)Southbound lanes between Papakura off-ramp and Drury/SH22 on-ramp, 29 AugustPapakura (Loop) southbound on-ramp, 29 AugustPapakura (Diamond) southbound on-ramp, 29 AugustNorthbound lanes between Drury/SH22 off-ramp and Takanini on-ramp, 25-26 & 28 AugustPapakura (Diamond) northbound on-ramp, 25-26 & 28 AugustPapakura (Loop) northbound on-ramp, 25-26 & 28 AugustDrury/SH22 northbound on-ramp, 25-26 & 28 AugustNorthbound lanes between Drury/SH22 off-ramp and Papakura on-ramp, 27 & 29 August Drury/SH22 northbound on-ramp, 27 & 29 AugustBombay southbound on-ramp, 29 August (approx. 8:00pm to 5:00am)Beaver Road East southbound off-ramp, 29 AugustBeaver Road East southbound on-ramp, 29 AugustNikau Road southbound off-ramp, 29 AugustSouthbound lanes between Nikau Road off-ramp and Nikau Road on-ramp, 28 August (approx. 9:30pm to 5:00am)Northbound lanes between Ridge Road off-ramp and Nikau Road on-ramp, 28 August (approx. 9:30pm to 5:00am)Razorback Road southbound off-ramp, 28 August (approx. 9:30pm to 5:00am)SH1 southbound to SH2 eastbound link, 28 August (approx. 9:30pm to 5:00am)\Southbound lanes between Pokeno off-ramp and Pokeno on-ramp, 28 August (approx. 9:30pm to 5:00am)Northbound lanes between Pokeno off-ramp and Pokeno on-ramp, 28 August (approx. 9:30pm to 5:00am)Ridge Road northbound off-ramp, 25 August (approx. 8:00pm to 5:00am)Razorback Road northbound on-ramp, 25 August (approx. 8:00pm to 5:00am)SH1 northbound to SH2 eastbound link, 25 AugustPokeno northbound on-ramp, 25 August (approx. 8:00pm to 5:00am)Pokeno southbound off-ramp, 27 August (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)Pokeno southbound on-ramp, 27 AugustPioneer Road southbound off-ramp, 27 August (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)Southbound lanes between Mercer off-ramp and Mercer on-ramp, 27 August (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)Northbound lanes between Mercer off-ramp and Mercer on-ramp, 27 August (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)Pokeno northbound off-ramp, 26 August (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)Pioneer Road northbound off-ramp, 26 August (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)Southbound lanes between Mercer off-ramp and Mercer on-ramp, 26 AugustNorthbound lanes between Mercer off-ramp and Mercer on-ramp, 26 AugustNORTHWESTERN MOTORWAY (SH16)Southbound lanes between Waimauku Roundabout and Foster Road, 26 & 29 August (approx. 8:00pm to 5:00am)Northbound lanes between Foster Road and Waimauku Roundabout, 26 & 29 August (approx. 8:00pm to 5:00am)Southbound lanes between Waimauku Roundabout and Trigg Road, 25 & 27-28 August (approx. 8:00pm to 5:00am)Northbound lanes between Trigg Road and Waimauku Roundabout, 25 & 27-28 August (approx. 8:00pm to 5:00am)Southbound lanes between Brigham Creek Roundabout off-ramp and Lincoln Road on-ramp, 29 AugustHobsonville Road southbound on-ramp, 29 AugustRoyal Road southbound on-ramp, 29 AugustNorthbound lanes between Te Atatu Road off-ramp and Lincoln Road on-ramp, 26-28 AugustTe Atatu Road northbound on-ramp, 26-28 AugustUPPER HARBOUR MOTORWAY (SH18)SH18 westbound to SH16 southbound link, 29 AugustSOUTHWESTERN MOTORWAY (SH20)Dominion Road northbound off-ramp, 25-27 AugustMassey Road southbound on-ramp, 25 AugustNorthbound Service Road (Cavendish Drive to Puhinui Road), 29 August (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)Lambie Drive southbound on-ramp, 27 & 29 AugustSH20 southbound to SH1 northbound link, 27 & 29 August (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)SH20 southbound to SH1 southbound link, 27 & 29 August (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)STATE HIGHWAY 2 (SH2)SH2 westbound to SH1 southbound, 28 August (approx. 9:30pm to 5:00am)SH2 westbound to SH1 northbound, 25 August.Please follow the signposted detours. NZ Transport Agency thanks you for your co-operation during these essential improvements and maintenance.

Police have made an arrest in connection with an ongoing homicide investigation in Tikipunga.Whangārei CIB have been investigating since the fire occurred on Thomas Street just after 3am on Monday 29 April 2024.The sole occupant of the address, Hoani Reuben, also known as John, died as result of the fire.Detective Senior Sergeant John Clayton says earlier this week Police arrested and charged a man in relation to the investigation.“A 48-year-old man has been arrested and charged with arson.“He has been remanded in custody and will reappear in Whangārei District Court on 16 September.”Enquiries will continue into the homicide, and further charges cannot be ruled out.“We can reassure the community that we are not seeking anyone else in connection with Mr Reuben’s death,” Detective Senior Sergeant Clayton says.Police acknowledge the public for their assistance throughout this investigation.“We would like to thank every person who called us or came into a station to provide information in relation to this homicide.“I’d also like to thank our team, who have worked tirelessly throughout this investigation.”As the matter is now before the Court, Police are limited in providing further comment.

New Zealand Food Safety (NZFS) is supporting Delmaine in its recall of Delmaine Fine Foods and Woolworths brand antipasto products due to the possible presence of Listeria monocytogenes bacteria.The affected products are sold at supermarkets and retail outlets throughout New Zealand.These products should not be eaten. You can return them to the place of purchase for a refund or, if that’s not possible, throw them out.Listeria, can cause serious illness in pregnant people and their unborn babies, newborns, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems.If you have consumed any of these products and are concerned for your health, contact your health professional, or call Healthline on 0800 611 116 for free advice.Delmaine Fine Foods brand Five Olive Mix (200g)Use By between: 16/10/24 - 20/11/24.Delmaine Fine Foods brand Jumbo Olive Selection (200g)Use By between: 09/10/24 - 27/11/24.Delmaine Fine Foods brand Pitted Olive Medley (180g)Use By between: 9/10/24 - 4/12/24.Delmaine Fine Foods brand Stuffed Olive Mix (160g)Use By of: 5/12/24.Delmaine Fine Foods brand Mediterranean Antipasto Mix (215g)Use By between: 16/10/24-20/11/24.Delmaine Fine Foods brand Marinated Feta (150g)Use By between: 10/10/24 - 4/12/24.Delmaine Fine Foods brand Stuffed Red Peppers (190g)Use By between: 24/10/24 - 5/12/24.Delmaine Fine Foods brand Marinated Sundried Tomatoes (200g)Use By between: 10/10/24 - 4/12/24.Delmaine Fine Foods brand Sundried Tomatoes (270g)Use By between: 7/04/25 - 30/04/25Woolworths brand Feta and Sundried Tomatoes (200g)Use By between: 21/11/24 - 25/12/24.Woolworths brand Greek Mix (200g)Use By between: 20/11/24 - 1/01/25.Woolworths brand Olive Selection (200g)Use By between: 13/11/24 - 25/12/24.Delmaine Fine Foods brand Woolworths Deli ProductsDelmaine brand Mediterranean MixSold Between 22 July 2024 – 23 August 2024Delmaine brand Italian MixSold Between 22 July 2024 – 23 August 2024Delmaine brand Marinated Sundried TomatoesSold Between 22 July 2024 – 23 August 2024Delmaine brand Marinated Feta & Sundried TomatoesSold Between 22 July 2024 – 23 August 2024

We have some NEW Accommodation listings for you on the app.Check them out and SUPPORT LOCAL!Martins Bay Holiday Park located at the end of Mahurangi East Peninsula is a beachfront holiday park offering various accommodation options, including cabins, glamping tents, and camping sites. Facilities include two playgrounds, a recreation room, boat ramps, and kayak/SUP rental. And the beach itself is wonderful for swimming and boating.The Green Tent in Matakana is a boutique glamping experience offering a luxurious, self-contained Mongolian-style yurt. The accommodation includes modern amenities like air conditioning, WiFi, and an outdoor bath, set in a private rural location close to Matakana village.Snells Beach Motel located in the heart of Snells Beach. They offer self-contained one and two-bedroom units, some with double spa baths. Guests can enjoy a heated swimming pool set in a subtropical garden. The motel is within walking distance of safe swimming beaches and close to popular attractions like vineyards, regional parks, and markets​.Pakiri Beach Holiday Park offers a variety of accommodations including beachfront units with ocean views, cabins, and campsites for tents, caravans, and motorhomes. The park is set on 9 km of pristine white sand, ideal for swimming, fishing, surfing, or simply relaxing. It is located just 90 minutes north of Auckland and 20 minutes from Matakana.Aotearoa Surf Accommodation offers unique accommodations, including Eco Pods and Glamping Teepees, nestled in subtropical gardens with panoramic ocean views. This location is popular for its surf and stay packages, catering to families, couples, and solo travellers. The site provides easy access to some of the North Island’s best surf spots, and guests can enjoy surfing lessons, paddleboarding, and kayaking.📱 If you want your business to be on the App get in contact [email protected] or Contact

Warkworth / Rodney RegionThursday 22nd August - Partly cloudy. Light winds, northeasterlies developing this evening.Friday 23rd August - Partly cloudy, with isolated showers developing in the afternoon. Northerlies, becoming fresh in the morning.Saturday 24th - Showers, clearing to fine in the afternoon. Northwesterlies, easing in the afternoon.Sunday 25th - Cloud clearing and becoming fine in the morning. Light winds.Mangawhai / Northland RegionThursday 22nd August - Partly cloudy with the chance of an afternoon shower. Light winds, northeasterlies developing this evening.Friday 23rd August - Partly cloudy, with the chance of a shower from afternoon. Northerlies, becoming fresh for a time in the afternoon and evening.Saturday 24th - Partly cloudy, with a few showers in the afternoon and evening. Northwesterlies, easing in the afternoon.Sunday 25th - Mostly cloudy, with the chance of a shower in the afternoon and evening. Light winds.

John Gerritsen, Education correspondentToo many five-year-olds start school unable to talk coherently, teachers say, and they blame Covid-19 and excessive screen time.Teachers of new entrant school children and early childhood teachers report seeing more children than ever with poor language skills, research by the Education Review Office published today shows.More than a quarter of teachers in schools in poor neighbourhoods said most of their pupils had oral language below the level expected of them, compared to just 3 percent of new entrant teachers in schools in rich neighbourhoods.School teachers said some children could not talk in sentences of more than four or five words, spent a lot of time on devices and had little interaction with books.LISTEN ▶ New entrants starting school unable to speak coherently"There is a complete lack of positional language, pronouns, and simple grammar tenses. A 6-year-old might say 'Me go pee' instead of 'I need the toilet' …", a new entrant teacher told the study."I have been teaching for 24 years and have never seen this low level of oral language."Another said: "They have difficulty both with understanding what is said to them and with formulating responses. They often fail to understand what teachers say, [and] miss important points in class."Early childhood teachers told the study they were spotting problems before children start school."The children want to communicate and try, however, they will often use the same simple words or incoherent sounds to communicate regardless of different contexts and situations," one early learning teacher told the study."Some of our 4-year-old tamariki like to tell long stories, but it mostly comes out as gibberish, much like an infant babbling," said another.The ERO study said research showed 80 percent of five-year-olds had good oral language, but a significant group of children were behind and Covid-19 had made this worse."Covid-19 has had a significant impact. Nearly two-thirds of teachers (59 percent of ECE teachers and 65 percent of new entrant teachers) report that Covid-19 has impacted children's language development."Teachers told us that social communication was particularly impacted by Covid-19, particularly language skills for social communication. International studies confirm the significant impact of Covid-19 on language development," the report said.Children's vocabulary at the age of two was strongly linked to their literacy and numeracy at age 12, the ERO report said."Delays in oral language in the early years are reflected in poor reading comprehension at school," it said.However, it also said children's oral language varied a lot up to the first two years of primary school because children's development varied.Quality early childhood education a solution - reportInternational studies showed quality early childhood education supports language development and could accelerate literacy by up to a year, especially for children from poor communities, the report said.It recommended removing barriers to increase enrolments of children from poor families in early learning and increasing the quality of early education available to them through ERO reviews and Ministry of Education interventions.While most qualified school and early childhood teachers know how to help children improve their oral language, some were not confident, the report said.It recommended ensuring the school and early childhood curriculums provide clear progress indicators for oral language.This story was originally published by RNZ

Here is your local business news. If you have a new business or changes/developments let us know [email protected] Bakery, a renowned chocolate maker in Mangawhai since 1998, is soon to expand its offerings with the opening of a new bakery. Known for its high-quality, hand-crafted chocolates. The new bakery will likely follow the same tradition of quality and artisanal excellence that Bennetts is known for.The renowned baker, Brodie, will be heading up the new Bennetts’ Bakery. The bakery is expected to complement their existing chocolate shop and café, which has already become a beloved spot in Mangawhai for both locals and visitors alike.The exact details of the bakery's offerings and the opening date are yet to be fully revealed, but all will be revelled in the coming weeks. It will be located where Kakariki health shop used to be in the Bennetts complex.The Bunker is Mangawhai's latest spot for live sports, featuring four top-of-the-line golf simulators. They are also going to offer a chic hangout for the entire community to come together, enjoy live sports, great food, and awesome music! Opening date is yet to be announced but hopefully in the next few weeks and is in Mangawhai Central.The newly opened Pacific Coast brewery in Mangawhai is unfortunately going into liquidation. This apparently came as a complete shock, but the owners are working hard to try and resolve it and hope to get back out there producing the great beers and spirits that they have just started making. In the meantime, the Taproom is still up and running and in it for the long haul, with an ample supply of beer! Taproom is in the old Dune restaurant at 40 Moir street.Decking Direct has recently opened a new store in Warkworth, located on Elizabeth Street. This store is their second outlet, following their first in Takapuna.The Kowhai Falls shopping centre in Warkworth is undergoing significant development, with new stores planned to open in stages. The centre, which already houses major retailers like The Warehouse and Noel Leeming, is expanding further with the construction of additional retail spaces. By the end of this year, seven new retail stores are expected to open as part of the second stage of development. Following this, there will be a third building that will include a café, restaurant, and smaller shops such as florists and hairdressers. A Cracker Jack store is also planned to open in a separate building near the roundabout. There have been murmurs of the Hunting and Fishing store moving here from their current location in central Warkworth as well as possibly a Chemist Warehouse.Jessie Love Reformer Pilates has recently opened a reformer Pilates studio at the Bali Garden in Point Wells.Snells Beach Four Square build is well under way and the owners are saying they will open in early October! It looks like its going to be a large store which locals are excited about.

Update on the Watercare Proposed Pipeline Negotiations:I wanted to provide an update on the proposed Watercare pipeline project in Warkworth, particularly in response to the many inquiries we've received from businesses along Elizabeth and Queen Streets.Current Status:As it stands, there is no definite start date for the pipeline work. Watercare has expressed a desire to have the project completed by 2028, but specifics on when work will commence remain unclear. We understand that this uncertainty can be challenging, especially for those considering property sales or other significant business decisions.Timeline and Coordination:We anticipate that the work between the Showgrounds and Hill Street may begin relatively soon, although several constraints and uncertainties persist. Ideally, the pipeline work would coincide with the upcoming Hill Street revamp, allowing the town to undergo one period of disruption rather than multiple. However, this depends on several factors, including Auckland Transport's budget allocation for Hill Street and the necessary funding from NZTA. If all goes according to plan, work might commence as early as 2026.We are actively engaging with government representatives to secure the required funding from NZTA to expedite the timeline. Our goal is to provide businesses with as much certainty as possible regarding the start date. Rest assured, we are also exploring alternative, less disruptive options and hope to share positive news with you soon.Stay Informed:Please don't hesitate to reach out with any questions or concerns—whether by email, phone or if you see me around town. I'm always happy to discuss how we can best support our local businesses during this period.Updates are also found online on the Home Page of onemahurangi.co.nz and across our social media platforms. (@onemahurangi on Facebook and Instagram) For those on foot in town, we have a noticeboard outside the Warkworth Information Centre as well. (1 Baxter St)Let’s continue to work together to strengthen our community. Your support of our local businesses will be crucial as we navigate these upcoming challenges.We are Stronger Together.Murray ChapmanManager, One Mahurangi Business AssociationEmail: [email protected]

FALL IN LOVE WITH TENNIS!NATIONWIDESunday 8 September 2024 10am-2pmLove Tennis is fast becoming one of New Zealand's favourite community events, inspiring people across the country, to get along to their local tennis club, pick up a racquet and give tennis a go. “Love Tennis is a showcase to the community to show them what our club is all about”. All are welcome to come and play some tennis, meet some members and find out about the club. This is a fun filled FREE event. All attendees go in the draw to win an Australian Open 2025 prize package. Racquets will be provided (bring along your own if you have one), there will be tips and tricks from the local coach, a ball machine to practise on, a BBQ, prizes and giveaways. Come and have a hit regardless of ability, we are a fun and social club with lots of levels of tennis ability.Below are the local clubs participating:Waipu Tennis Club9 St Mary's Rd, Waipu,https://clubspark.kiwi/waiputennisclubMangawhai75 Moir Street, In the Domainhttps://www.mangawhaitennis.co.nz/Warkworth RacketsShoesmith Streethttps://warkworthrackets.co.nz/Mahurangi East Tennis Club296 Mahurangi East Road, Snells Beachhttps://clubspark.kiwi/mahurangieasttennisclub

Susan Edmunds, Money CorrespondentHigh wholesale power prices are already reducing the deals that households can get on their electricity, a price comparison website says.Powerswitch said it had been advised both Comtricity and Raw Energy had stopped trading.In addition, it had been asked to remove offers from Octopus, Nova, Electric Kiwi and Flick Electric from the site.Independent retailers had been under pressure in recent months as wholesale power prices soared.In July, Electric Kiwi said it had to close to new customers because it could not afford to take them on.On 20 August last year, wholesale prices were as low as $77.53/MWh - on Monday they were more than $300."These retailers' offers are temporarily not shown on the Powerswitch results page, while they are not seeking to take on new customers due to adverse market conditions," Powerswitch general manager Paul Fuge said."Hopefully, they will be back soon. But we fear if the situation continues it may be some retailers elect to shut up shop completely, which would be detrimental to retail competition."I'm not sure how long retailers will be able to hold out for if wholesale prices continue to be elevated. The pressure will surely be on to increase retail prices at some point in the near future."Octopus Energy chief operating officer Margaret Cooney said it had withdrawn from Powerswitch because of problems accessing hedge contracts.She said customers were experiencing significant price increases - compared to July, the best offer for a Christchurch household on Powerswitch was $700 a year more with Meridian and $900 with Mercury.A Meridian spokesperson said that deal was a special rate with Orion offered for just over a month. "The special rate has come to an end."Fuge said Powerswitch had been close to listing 2Degrees because it offers electricity on some of its plans."The current conditions will likely delay this."He said Powerswitch would watch gentailers' profit levels with interest.On Monday, Contact Energy reported revenue growth of 35 percent and a net profit of $235 million.The Energy Collective chief financial officer Nick Haines said he had seen data that indicated some of the offers withdrawn from Powerswitch, including deals from the major power companies, had been "leading and essentially keeping prices down for consumers"."The fact that across a number of main regions you've had offers from gentailers that have been withdrawn in the last few weeks, indicates we are likely to see prices increase."It seemed obvious if there was less competition, it was more likely that prices would rise, he said.Electricity Retailers Association chief executive Bridget Abernethy said wholesale prices were high and could be volatile, but most consumers were not exposed to spot-price movements.The issue had been caused by fuel supplies and a dry year, she said."The thing we really need to do more than anything is invest in more supply to bring those prices down."Abernethy said investment in renewable generation had doubled in the last 18 months.Deals with Methanex and the aluminium smelter at Tiwai had generated extra capacity to help with the current squeeze.Things were tough for households and businesses after years of increasing costs but electricity prices had been relatively flat, Abernethy said.MBIE data showed the average residential power bill this year, including GST, was $2343, compared to $2316 last year; in 2022, however, it was $2460 in real terms.This story was first published by RNZ