FAR NORTH – Far North Mayor Moko Tepania is spearheading a push to shift the final authority on place-naming decisions from central government ministers to local councils, arguing that the current system allows for “bizarre” outcomes that ignore local history and expertise. Tepania’s proposal, submitted as a remit to Local Government New Zealand (LGNZ), suggests … Read more
New Zealand Police have launched a nationwide crackdown on anti-social and illegal dirt bike activity, following a spike in reports of dangerous behavior across multiple districts. Law enforcement confirms that arrests and enforcement actions have been carried out in Northland, Auckland, Waikato, Eastern, Bay of Plenty, and Wellington. In Hamilton, police are currently conducting Operation … Read more
Auckland Mayor Wayne Brown Eyes Kaitāia Timber Mills: A Lifeline for Northland Industry? The future of Kaitāia’s industrial landscape hangs in the balance as Auckland Mayor Wayne Brown confirms he is “chewing over” a potential bid to rescue the town’s beleaguered timber mills. As a private businessman, Brown’s interest offers a glimmer of hope for … Read more
A tropical low is forecast to affect parts of New Zealand’s North Island in the coming days, with weather watches now in effect for strong winds and heavy rainfall. Weather Watches Issued A strong wind watch is in place for the Far North from midday today. Downpours are expected to trigger a heavy rain watch … Read more
A Northland teacher has been struck off after being found guilty of serious misconduct for using physical force against students in his Year 3 class. ‘Didn’t even push him that hard’ Patrick Tokoroa Heke’s registration was cancelled by the Teachers Disciplinary Tribunal. The incidents occurred at a Whangārei school in 2021 and were reported to … Read more
The Rising Tide of Animal Neglect and the Challenges for Veterinary Professionals A recent case in Whangārei, New Zealand, highlights a disturbing trend: individuals repeatedly seeking veterinary care for animals while actively hindering treatment and demonstrating a pattern of neglect. The case, involving a woman presenting animals under aliases and refusing recommended euthanasia for suffering … Read more
The Kaipara District Council has formally urged the government to consider creating a combined Kaipara‑North Rodney council as part of the nation’s sweeping local‑government shake‑up. What the proposal entails The council backs the North Rodney Action Group’s plan to form a unitary authority that merges the Kaipara District area with the northern two‑thirds of the … Read more
A New Zealand student’s long-held dream of attending Duke University in North Carolina is now a reality, thanks to a scholarship worth approximately $500,000. Charissa, a former student of Kerikeri High School, will pursue theatre studies at the prestigious university. A Childhood Dream Realized Charissa’s connection to Duke University dates back to childhood visits with … Read more
Approximately 80 campers who were stranded at Whangaruru since Sunday have returned home after being forced to hike to safety following a significant landslide. Landslide Disrupts Camping Trip The campers were staying at the Department of Conservation’s (DOC) Puriri Bay campsite when torrential rain caused widespread flooding and triggered a 50-metre-wide slip, blocking the only … Read more
Heavy rain watches have been upgraded to warnings as a period of intense downpours approaches Northland, parts of Auckland, and the Coromandel Peninsula. MetService has issued orange heavy rain warnings for Monday and Tuesday, anticipating prolonged rainfall, potential thunderstorms, and localized heavy showers driven by a strong, humid easterly flow. Widespread Rainfall Expected Northland is … Read more