Roads IN NORTHLAND
OCTOBER 2023
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ROADS transport
ADDING A LITTLE ‘CAN DO’ THINKING TO THE NORTHLAND MARKET!
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n a move that highlights Booth’s Logistics commitment to the Northland market, businesses, and its communities, the company opened a new Whangarei branch in May this year. This new branch comes on the back of Booth’s acquisition in 2022 of fellow and highly regarded Northland business, The Production Connection, which added a produce handling arm to its business and a temperature-controlled fleet in the upper North Island.
When asked about what this means for Northland businesses, Whangarei Branch Manager Daniel Dalkie says, “Northland customers can now enjoy a comprehensive suite of services including a dedicated regional metro fleet for local collections and deliveries. Our nationwide linehaul services connect Northland seamlessly with the rest of the country’s distribution networks and ports, offering overnight freight service to Auckland, a 2-day service to the rest of the North Island, a 3-day service to Christchurch and a 4-day service to the rest of the South Island.”
The new Booth’s Whangarei branch, located at 16 Hewlett Street, was established in response to an observed gap in the market and on the back of requests from existing customers in other parts of the country to provide increased carrier options in and out of the Northland region.
To round out the services available, Daniel adds, “we also have a dedicated nationwide flat deck and container transport fleet, providing versatile and competitive options across the region and beyond. Our Whangarei branch has 2,000m² of internal warehousing storage, with the ability to scale up as required, as well as overflow transport, warehousing and manpower capacity available through our sister business in the region, The Produce Connection.”
Leading the charge at the Whangarei branch is Daniel Dalkie, a seasoned industry professional with 22 years of experience at Booth’s Logistics. Company CEO, Dallas Vince, says “Daniel’s wealth of experience, coupled with a customer-centric and solutions-focused approach, positions him perfectly to oversee the operation and support our growth plans in the region.” “In recent years, Booth’s has continued to grow into a prominent player in the logistics industry, and the inclusion of the Whangarei branch marks a significant step towards the wider jigsaw puzzle for us in establishing a comprehensive nationwide distribution network, comments Dallas.”
With a commitment to exploring all growth opportunities within the region, Booth’s Logistics invites businesses to contact them for a no obligation audit of their transport, warehousing and logistics requirements and experience for themselves how the Booth’s ‘Can Do. Will Do’ style of business could help them achieve some of their own business objectives and growth plans.
Overseeing the Whangarei branch, Daniel Dalkie brings his 22 years of experience with Booth’s to the helm.
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CONTENT DRIVE TO KEEP NORTHLAND ROAD WORKERS AND USERS SAFE An ongoing collaboration between Northland’s three District Council roading teams and roading entities is again encouraging motorists to be considerate of road workers.
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t is hoped the focus will raise awareness of the need for motorists to be more aware of the need for their own and road worker safety.
This is especially critical right now with over 500 roading projects underway covering over 250km of improvement works across Northland – on Far North District Council, Kaipara District Council and Whangārei District Council roads. Northland Transportation Alliance’s Nicole Cauty highlights that safety is everyone’s responsibility and we must all play our part in keeping Northland Councils’ roading crews safe. “The RIDS (Restraints, Impairment, Distractions, Speed) message is one I want people to take home,” she says. “It is also important to speak up when friends and family members are driving and not being responsible or respectful to other motorist and roadside workers. The actions of motorists not driving to the conditions or speeding can also have an adverse impact on our emergency services when they have to respond to road crashes. “All of us involved in Northland’s roading network are constantly working together to help improve road safety and our roading conditions despite the ongoing weather events we have experienced in the past couple of years which has adversely impacting the condition of our roads. That has created additional challenges for Council roading crews to complete repairs
but they are doing their best and making good progress now the weather has settled somewhat.” “As Northlanders we need to be committed to safe driving. This includes driving to the conditions, wearing seatbelts and making sure our children are restrained,” says Northland Road Policing Manager AnneMarie Fitchett. “I urge people to ensure the road has their fwwull focus and they are not fatigued or under the influence of alcohol or drugs. We can be guilty of thinking ‘I’m only going a short distance’ or ‘I won’t crash … it won’t happen to me.’ “Sadly, we see the outcome of this thinking and behind the devastation of crashes are families and communities, including emergency services, who are impacted forever. “In 2022, 38 people died on Northland roads which was the highest death toll in 22 years. We have already had 28 people killed on Northland roads in 2023. So many of those deaths were avoidable if people had slowed down, worn their safety belts, or made safe driving decisions. Something needs to change with our attitude to driving – and we all play a part in that. “Please respect people working on our roads as they are also members of our community. Their job is made easier and safer when we all follow the speed limits, are alert when passing through roadside works and respect the risk that this work involves.”
The problem with drinking and driving...
These sentiments are supported by Kaipara District Council Chief Executive Jason Marris who, while recognising the state of our roads need to improve, has stated: “for our district roads to improve across Northland, we need to complete a large summer programme of works. “We realise this will cause motorists some inconvenience, however, after some recent reports of public abusing and ignoring road worker safety instructions, we implore motorist to show some consideration for the teams out there working hard to improve our roads.” Steve Mutton, Waka Kotahi Director Regional Relationships Te Tai Tokerau me Tāmaki Makaurau says as the weather starts to
heat up, people will start to see increased temporary traffic management and road workers across the Northland state highway network. “Traffic management is important for the safety of all road users. It’s crucial that motorists slow down when passing through worksites and follow our temporary speed restrictions, to ensure the safety of both drivers and road workers,” he says. “While temporary speed restrictions, road cones and barriers may add time to your journey, they’re in place to keep our workers safe who are doing their part to keep you safe. In turn they deserve a safe working environment.”
The impact of alcohol on driving You risk causing death and serious injury to yourself and other people if you drive under the influence of alcohol. Some of the extensive costs of drink-driving related crashes are: • death and injury • emotional harm • long-term financial costs • legal charges (ranging from manslaughter to ‘over the limit’) • penalties (including imprisonment, loss of licence and/or disqualification and fines) • loss of insurance cover.
... is the MOURNING after
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NORTHLAND ROADING IMPROVEMENTS CONTINUE AS SUMMER APPROACHES N
Dargaville-based Ventia Foreman Brendon Morris underway with sealed pavement dig-outs on Kaiwaka-Mangawhai Road.
orthland’s three District Council roading teams have launched into major resurfacing and road repair programmes as the wet weather begins to ease.
Spring and summer are traditionally the seasons roadcrews can ramp up activity around roading improvements and road renewal programmes, says Northland Transportation Alliance (NTA) General Manager Calvin Thomas “Northland’s three District Councils plan to deliver a combined $200M of investment in repairs, maintenance and improvements to our local roading and transport networks over the next 12 months, so work has really ramped up. It is starting to become a very busy time on our roads as we play catch up,” he says.
Dust suppression is a relatively costly and short-term solution, so it will depend on each Council’s policy,” he says. Bernard Petersen, NTA’s Maintenance and Operations Manager, says Council roading crews are also doing a lot of pre-seal preparation work.
progress over summer.
“After all the weather damage of the past 12 months and the need for general road maintenance and improvements, all three Councils are taking full advantage of our budgets and additional Central Government funding to improve our wider transport network,” says Mayor Cocurullo.
“I have seen roading storm repairs and improvements ramp up across the Whangarei District in recent months. It will continue to improve over coming months. As we work on our Long-Term Plans, all Northland Councils have a strong focus on getting the basics of roading maintenance right and determining exactly how we fund that.”
“The pre-seal work is like sanding back paint on your house and bogging the holes ready for the final paint job. There will be speed restrictions during this work and afterwards to ensure the roads are well bedded in,” says Mr Petersen. “We are asking for patience and understanding from motorists in Northland. If you see us go back to the same site a few months later it is not because the work was not done right the first time, it is part of the process.”
“Summer is also time to do the permanent fixes on our sealed network that have been held with temporary repairs over winter, usually indicated by potholes because it can effectively be done when the ground is dry. We are also preparing our unsealed networks for summer - as the roads dry out grading will be reduced.
Councils will soon roll out a new online tool that will allow people to search for a road, see when the last inspection was and when the next one is due. These regular inspections drive the identification, prioritisation and completion of road repairs and general safety issues that need to be addressed.
“Dust suppressant will be used at various sites around Northland, including some forestry areas, close to houses and Marae.
WDC Mayor Vince Cocurullo, speaking on behalf of the Northland Mayoral Forum, says Northlanders can look forward to good
Taupaki Cassidy, Pavement Foreperson in Fulton Hogan’s Maintenance team in action on Waimatenui Road, near Twin Bridges - yet another successful road maintenance and enhancement project going on in Northland.
in northland 2023 Key roading projects already completed or underway in Kaipara, Whangārei and Far North Districts in the coming weeks and months are as follows: Kaipara Unsealed road rehabilitation (pavement rebuild) treatments are planned for approximately 20 roads across the Kaipara District, including Awakino Point North Road, Gorge Road, Lawrence Road and Oruawharo Road. Sealed road rehabilitation works are also planned on sections of roads across the Kaipara District, including Baylys Coast Road, Baldrock Road and Moir Road Phase three of the Mangawhai shared path will begin late 2023, filling in the remaining sections to provide a continuous link between Mangawhai village and the heads. Dargaville shared path will commence (pending final Council approval) creating a number of off-road cycle routes throughout the town connecting key locations to provide safe walking and cycling access between schools, shopping areas and residential areas. Whangārei Unsealed road rehabilitation (pavement rebuild) treatments are planned for numerous
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roads across the Whangārei District, including Millbrook Road, Helmsdale Road, Otuhi Road, McBreen Road and Lowe Road. Sealed road rehabilitation works are also planned on sections of roads across the Whangārei District, including Springfield Road, Waiotira Road and Pipiwai Road, while Port Road/Kiorerora Road intersection upgrade works will continue with an expected completion in early 2024. Te Kamo share path stage 5 works will begin, providing a shared path from the end of the existing path at Fisher Terrace through to Te Kamo township - including several slow streets - to provide safe access to the new off-road path. Far North Unsealed road rehabilitation (pavement rebuild) treatments are planned for approximately 16 roads across the Far North District, including Diggers Valley Road, Dutton Road, Tokawhero Road, Okaka Road, Orira Road and Waiotehue Road. Sealed road rehabilitation works are also planned on sections of roads across the Far North District, including Cumber Road, Gill Road, Kaitaia-Awaroa Road, Ngapipito Road and Pipiwai Road.
Ventia Project Manager Cambridge Anania completing footpath rehabilitation on Mangakahia Road, Kaikohe.
Bridging renewal works will see significant improvements undertaken on several bridge including Churtons Road Bridge, Quarry Road Bridge, Wekweka Road Culvert, Hihi Road Bridge and Matai Road bridge.
Road and Parnell Road. Ratepayers can keep up to date with resurfacing and road repair programmes at:
Meanwhile, the seal extension programme will see sections of Ruaroa Road and Hautapu Road sealed.
https://www.fndc.govt.nz/Our-services/ Transport/Roads/Road-maintenance/Longterm-road-repairs-severe-weather-damage
The new footpath programme will see new footpaths constructed on several roads, including Cable Bay Block Road, Haruru Fall
https://www.wdc.govt.nz/Services/Roadsand-Transportation/Roads/Roadworks-andClosures/Long-term-repairs
https://www.kaipara.govt.nz/road-repairs
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ROADS transport
ADVOCATE ON THE ISSUES
By Tracey Rissetto AA Northland District chair
A year ago I wrote the 2022 edition of this column, talking about the impact of extreme weather and unchecked wear and tear on Northland’s roads. Twelve months has gone quickly and in that time it seems all our resilience pigeons and underfed maintenance chickens came home to roost. The Auckland Anniversary Floods and Cyclone Gabrielle have shown us how vulnerable the roading network is to extreme weather, while problems with potholes have entered the national psyche. Despite all of this, there might be couple of golden eggs hiding in the back of the coop. Northland’s roads back on the map The first bit of good news is that both major political parties ahead of the election agreed that the ruts and washouts affecting the nation’s roads simply wouldn’t do, with each committing significant funding to resilience and maintenance. While it’s impossible to say what’s in store for Northland (having written this column before the election) it was heartening to see Labour and National signalling significant investments in major roading projects in our region. The highway from Warkworth to Wellsford
was named by Labour though the Draft Government Policy Statement (GPS) and in National’s Roads of National’s Importance. The GPS also included the routes from Te Hana and Whangārei to Brynderwyns, while National pledged to build Whangārei to Port Marsden. Our roads have been among the worst in New Zealand for a long time and it’s nice to see Northland finally getting some love. The AA’s Northland District Council looks forward to its continued collaboration with authorities, and seeing transformational projects positively shape our region. Northland’s state highways seem to be constantly in need of repairs PHOTO: Tania Whyte
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Safety In 2022/23 police did 2.66 million breath alcohol tests nationally - over 1 million more than the previous year. This a was a huge win for road safety, but disappointingly local testing numbers went backwards – from 65,956 to 64,026. Breath screening is an essential tool in preventing crashes and deaths. The AA wants to see frequent testing and a larger police presence which will deter would-be drunk drivers and stop impaired drivers harming themselves or others after they have made a bad decision. Police tell us Northland’s testing rates are tracking in the right direction this year and we’re hopeful that’s the start of an upward trend. The AA is also pleased to see a new safety camera soon to go live between Moerewa and Kawakawa that will also have warning signage reminding drivers it is there. Speed was a factor in 122 New Zealand road fatalities in 2021, so having more people checking their speed will go a long way to bringing the road toll down. It’s not just up to authorities to keep the roads safe – it’s everyone’s responsibility. Getting behind the wheel is the most dangerous thing many people do each day. Driving to the conditions, seat belts fastened, and no distractions or impairments will keep you and your whanau safer.
A bit more on resilience Mangamuka Gorge is closed. Still. However, the Government committed $100 million through the Far North State Highway Resilience Programme for its repair and reopening. The projected completion date is in late 2024. Crucially, part of the programme will look at resilience options – what can be done to avoid or lessen the impacts of the hugely disruptive impacts of closures to SH1 like we have seen over the last few years. Driver licensing We are also pleased to hear a pilot licencing programme being run in the Far North that is returning some stunning results - pass rates of 96% for restricted, and 100% for full licenses. Waka Kotahi is working with the Police and Far North Rural Education Activities Programme on this project. On another positive note, in December last year driver testing was reinstated to Kaipara after a base was set up in Dargaville. Access to this service means fewer people are driving without a licence and ending up on the wrong side of the court system.
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Work continues on stabilising the Mangamuka Gorge. PHOTO: David Fisher
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WORK TO HEAT UP THIS SUMMER ACROSS
Mangamuka Gorge – Permanent piles on two slips. The piling rig and crane are in place and underway with the permanent works on the slip.
By Jacqui Hori-Hoult, Waka Kotahi Regional Manager Maintenance and Operations.
R
ecovery, rebuild and resilience is as important as slip, slop slap this summer as Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency heads into its first maintenance and construction season since severe weather events impacted the upper North Island earlier this year. We’ve been in the recovery phase since May, focusing on returning our weather-affected state highways back to pre-event conditions and restoring access. This generally involves replacing the roads as a ‘like for like’ basis. With warmer weather approaching, we’ll
be renewing, resurfacing and rehabilitating 156 lane kilometres across the state highway network at a number of sites, from Kaipara and the Far North to Whangārei and North Auckland including SH12, SH14, SH15 and SH16. This work is already underway as the warmer temperatures and dry air help new seal stick to the road surfaces to ensure a successful outcome. We’re also continuing work on the Far North state highway resilience programme (SH1 Mangamuka Gorge slip repairs) and the SH10 Kāeo Bridge upgrade project. The bridge work is expected to be finished by the end of the year with the road and roundabout set to
open in early 2024. Te Tai Tokerau has an unacceptable road safety record, with an average of 180 annual deaths and serious injuries over the past three years. To reduce these numbers we have installed 1km of flexible median barrier between the Port Marsden Highway (SH15) roundabout and Sandford Road and a wider centreline and flexible safety posts from Sandford Road to Lagoon Bridge. This work has been extended down to Mountfield Road and is expected to be completed before the end of next month. Northern safety improvements, which include flexible safety posts on the centreline and road markings between Springfield Rd
and SH15, will start shortly with the aim of being completed by Christmas. Southern safety improvements involve a 25km stretch of SH1 in Northland, from the south side of the Brynderwyn Hills to Wellsford. The improvements include flexible median barriers, safety barriers and widened shoulders, rumble strips and wide centrelines. Construction is set to begin shortly and will also be completed by mid-December. Not only will this mahi improve road safety on this important stretch of one of Aotearoa’s busiest highways, but it is also one of the key projects for building more resilient infrastructure after being impacted
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in northland 2023
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THE NORTHLAND STATE HIGHWAY NETWORK by Cyclone Gabrielle earlier this year. Significant recovery works on key corridors SH1 Dome Valley and SH1 Brynderwyn Hills also commenced at the beginning of this month and will continue throughout the holiday period. Alongside our crucial recovery and maintenance work, we have completed Resilient Strategic Rebuild projects to better understand what is needed to rebuild the state highway network with the resilience required to withstand the impacts of climate change, whilst also catering for the evolving needs of road users. New roads like the new Ara Tūhono Pūhoi to Warkworth motorway see around 20,000 vehicles per day who are reaping the rewards of a safer and more resilient network between Tāmaki Makaurau and Te Tai Tokerau. As well as being designed to withstand increased rainfall intensity due to future climate change, people have noted return time savings of up to 20 minutes. The final piece of the puzzle for our summer activities is our work on proactive resilience. The Transport Resilience Fund will cover works in Northland, costing approximately $44 million to be delivered over the next four years. This work will improve public
Work on the SH15 Twin Bridges retaining wall as part of a slip repair from storm damage.
safety and access, reduce disruption and provide improved levels of service across the Northland state highway network. People can expect delays on key routes this summer and the best tool for understanding how this could affect your journey is the Waka Kotahi Journey Planner. It shows all
Recovery works to a slip on SH1 Brynderwyn Hills nearing completion.
known worksites or hazards affecting access on the network and can help with choosing the best route to your destination. We also urge people to be prepared for traffic management on the road and to slow down, be patient and respectful of our crews who are working to make our roads safer. Their
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safety, like everyone else’s, is a priority. To alleviate congestion over the Christmas and New Year holiday period, all work sites will close on Friday 22 December 2023, starting up again from Monday 8 January 2024.
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SAFETY FATIGUE STOPS BACK ON NORTHLAND ROADS The summer round of fatigue stops in Northland are back underway with the first on this weekend – Labour Weekend.
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orthland Transportation Alliance Road Safety Promotion Programme Manager Nicole Cauty says the fatigue stops are important for driver safety.
“The fatigue stops were launched in 1995 due to an increase in crashes over long weekends and they are still well received because they give drivers a chance to stop, refresh with a coffee, water or some food and they leave with some giveaways,” she says. “It is a chance for motorists get to stretch their legs and refresh before they continue on their travels, which will hopefully reduce the number of crashes, injuries and deaths on Northland roads.”
The first fatigue stop is happening this Friday, October 20, on the Northbound side of Uretiti with traffic management kindly being provided by Fulton Hogan. Motorists can take a break to refresh between 11am and 4pm. Northland Road Safety Trust Programme Manager Ashley Johnston says the Trust has supported the initiative for years and will continue to do so. “We generally interact with 300 people per stop although that can increase on a long weekend.
We encourage people to plan their journeys to include regular breaks, take water and snacks on the drive and Swap drivers regularly if you can,” she says. “If travelling with kids, parents should pack some activities to keep them entertained and remember that a break to take a quick
The stops are mostly supported by a bunch of passionate and caring retirees who volunteer their time under the umbrella of the Northland Road Safety Association, says Chair Mark van Engelen. Northland Road Policing Manager AnneMarie Fitchett says fatigue plays a role in many crashes but is hard to capture in any statistics as drivers will quite often not admit being tired while driving. “It is a chance to have a chat with people to remind them the dangers of driving fatigued and other safety messaging,” she says.
5 generations in quarrying, 4 in the Far North. Bellingham Quarries have been operating in the district since 1937, providing for the communities’ roading, concrete and drainage aggregate, agricultural lime and cartage needs. For supply, delivery or any enquiries give the team a call on 09 408 1340, or email bellingham.quarry@xtra.co.nz. You can also check out our website at bellinghamquarries.com
walk and get out of the car for some fresh air only needs to be as little as five minutes minutes long. Of course, if you are if you are really tired, try closing your eyes for 15–20 minutes but avoid anything longer. As a former Police Officer, Johnston says she would like motorists to always keep the RIDS (Restraints, Impairment, Distractions, Speed) concept top of mind. Northland Road Safety Association fatigue stops will be in action (weather and conditions dependent): • • • • •
Friday October 20, 2023 [Labour Weekend] Friday December 15, 2023 [PreChristmas] Friday January 26, 2024 [Anniversary Friday February 2, 2024 [Waitangi Thursday March 28, 2024 [Easter]
Check out Northland Road Safety’s Facebook for updates throughout summer at: https://www.facebook.com/nrsnrcnz
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by the Fa in 2014, messagin Hiku com
in northland 2023
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PAPATŪĀNUKU SHOWS THE WAY TO ROAD SAFETY Anyone living in Te Hiku o Te Ika/ the Far North of Aotearoa New Zealand, will recognise the iconic billboards featuring a wāhine Māori crying next to the saying, “One Tear Too Many”.
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he image represents Papatūānuku, with her message for all road users to drive safely on the district’s local roads and state highways.
The road safety kaupapa was developed by the Far North REAP Road Safety Team in 2014, who recognised the road safety messaging was not resonating with the Te Hiku community.
This article is the third in a series of articles that explores the whakapapa of the One Tear Too Many road safety kaupapa, to explore where it all began, the kōrero from the artists behind the artwork and a new direction for the kaupapa. Far North artists Sheree Wagener and Richard Hape (Ngai Takoto) talk about the evolution of the image of Papatūānuku and the big reveal of her on a new street mural on Taaffe St, Kaitaia. The striking image of Papatūānuku on billboards on roads across the Far North has grown to become an iconic symbol the local community has come to know and love.
On Monday, the Far North Road Safety team held a special reveal ceremony for its new One Tear Too Many mural above Te Whare Ruruhau o Meri building on the corner of Commerce St and Taaffe St (Opposite Zed gas station). The mural was created by local artist Sheree Wagener, featuring another local artist, Richard Hape’s new image of Papatūānuku, spread across 15 panels on a wall 18 metres long and three metres high. Wagener said it was by far the biggest mural she’d ever worked on and had been inspired by the beauty of the Far North, while encompassing the road safety message that one life lost on our roads was “one tear too many”. She said while it was always a bit nerve wracking revealing her work, she was excited to share her creation which she hoped would help brighten the town, while spreading an important reminder to be safe on our roads. “This painting is all about portraying the story of Papatūānuku and our natural world,
After almost 10 years since the original image was created by Ahipara artist, Haylee Solomon, the One Tear Too Many kaupapa has evolved and with that, the iconic image and her message of one death too many on our roads is now heading in a new direction.
Sheree Wagener painting the mural
the tears she cries change into feathers and wind, to represent the spirits of our loved ones that we have lost to the roads,” Wagener said. “As a feather they are taking their last journey through our Far North’s natural world and are being guided by our native birds, before reaching Te Rerenga Wairua/ Cape Reinga. “The process of designing a new story with the team was an honour, we all couldn’t wait to get onto the painting part which is always so fun. “Once I started the first panels I found it hard to sleep at night because I was so excited to keep going. I have loved every minute of this process, it has been a beautiful moment in time that I am proud to be part of. The colourful mural has been painted on plywood with resene paint and some spray paint, which Wagener estimated took around 170 hours to paint.
“It was a little bit of a hard process to be honest because I’d never designed something like that for such a big kaupapa and I really liked the image Haylee created because it was a really cool style,” Hape said. “I definitely learned how to tell my story better though and was eventually able to put my own spin on it.” Hape said he’d been inspired by other Māori artists, as well as the whenua of Te Hiku o Te Ika. He said for Papatūānuku’s moko kauae, he wanted to represent the Far North in its entirety, representing all iwi of Muriwhenua (Ngai Takoto, Ngāti Kahu, Te Aupouri, Te Rarawa, Ngāti Kuri), including Te Paatu. “The bottom of the moko kauae is shaped as a stingray which has its own significant kōrero, as it only ever travels in one direction and represents the story of one death too many on the roads and making sure to stay safe on the road,” Hape said. “The two koru coming from her lips represent her voice and Papatūānuku speaking to everyone about the importance of the kaupapa.”
Former Far North REAP employee Richard Hape said he’d been equally excited and challenged to stay true to the story of the One Tear Too Many road safety message, while incorporating his own unique take on the kaupapa. Hape (Ngai Takoto) said he had felt honoured to be approached by Far North Road Safety manager Jodi Betts to come up with the new image of Papatūānuku last year and was stoked to see the final result. Richard Hape
Sheree Wagener
Moko kauae design
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SADD fuse tech and talent to address road safety in Northland
*Deaths on Northland roads reached a 5-year high during 2023. Regional records of road related fatalities can be accessed here: https://www.transport.govt.nz/ statistics-and-insights/safety-roaddeaths/year-to-date-road-deaths/
for many in the community to express themselves freely. Most things in Kerikeri are within walking distance. We have limited public transport. The roads up here are not great as there are often potholes and roadworks obstructing traffic. People often complain that the speed limit is far too high and has damaged roads near housing. Other than the road situation, Kerikeri is a fairly safe town. The biggest risk to my age group is substance abuse, especially while driving. Drunk driving is an issue in much of the North Island, including Kerikeri which creates a danger for all ages.” On whether or not Jack felt his voice was heard: “As a young person, I often feel that my voice is less important than other age groups, which frustrates a lot of young people I know who have strong views, myself included. We feel our voice is ignored whether it is informed or not, we feel powerless to make any sort of significant change. I loved being a part of the SADD interactive video because I can help spread a message and awareness of such an important topic that I otherwise would be unable to do.” Kaitiaki o Ara/SADD is the only youth-led road safety organisation in Australasia. It provides young Kiwis with a platform where they can express themselves and their voice can be heard.
Kaitiaki o Ara/SADD (Students Against Dangerous Driving) have been around since 1985 and are firmly established across Aotearoa. Recently, the studentled organisation unveiled its new resource - an interactive video “The After Party”. You can learn more about it here: https://docs.google.com/document/ d/12t0Az437sqwWnwmLsf6OWWapYftDawEAHhshmTnfEg/edit The video is a resource that can be used more than once by the same viewer or group of viewers. Thirty-one scenes were shot to create an experience that can give different outcomes on each viewing, accompanied by lessons and consequential messages depending on choices made. One of the lead actors in the innovative video is local student Jack Laird, a Kerikeri resident. Jack is 15 years old and is a year 11 Kerikeri High student. He has lived in Kerikeri his whole life and considers himself an active member of the community. His interests include music, theater, learning languages and everything to do with electronics.
If you want to talk about SADD/Kaitiaki o Ara or have a school or a group of young people who are interested in learning more simply call or email Sandra or Mia:
He aspires to become a famous actor/ musician or pursue a career as a full stack developer in computer science. Jack’s recent involvement with SADD and road safety is his way of making a difference in road safety and in furthering his aspirations as a young Kiwi. Before being involved in making the video, Jack knew about SADD. “Members of SADD came to my primary school and had a talk. Currently, we have local SADD members in my highschool promoting safe driving.” The interactive video is probably the biggest and most complex single innovative project SADD has rolled out and it gave Jack
more insight into the risks young road users face. “Being a part of filming such a project, and hearing the opinions and statistics of people affected by dangerous driving has really opened my eyes about the subject, and has reinforced my belief that no one should be put at risk when driving, an act people do on a daily basis.” On being a Northlander, Jack says: “Growing up in a mid-sized township, I’ve always felt a part of the local scene. Everybody here is very friendly and outgoing. The music scene is vibrant, theatre groups are very active and are a large outlet
Sandra Dacey SADD/Kaitiaki o Ara Programme Delivery Lead Northland, Auckland,Thames/Coromandel sandra@sadd.org.nz 027 279 3130 Or Mia Dins SADD/Kaitiaki O Ara Projects Coordinator projects@sadd.org.nz 027 269 9883
in northland 2023 Steering clear of risks: Managing medicinal cannabis
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By Glenn Dobson, CEO of The Drug Detection Agency
TDDA has seen an increase in detection rates of cannabis in workplace drug screenings since the introduction of the 2020 Medicinal Cannabis Act – signaling an increase in cannabis consumption at a time of increasing availability. Our in-house data, and anecdotal evidence from employees and clients, paint a risky picture that calls for those in the transport industry to immediately update their drug and alcohol policies and testing programmes.
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t’s not unusual for cannabis to trigger our testing devices, but what is new is people in safety sensitive workplaces presenting a prescription for medicinal cannabis. Just because a substance is legal doesn’t mean it’s safe to take it and get behind the wheel of a 40-ton truck. Businesses need to understand the complex technical, legal and medical landscape and address risks, updating their approach in line with professional advice. Like any prescription medication, such as opioids or prescription painkillers, businesses must set and communicate clear guidelines on company and employee expectations. Businesses need to be aware that medicinal
cannabis products vary in composition, potency and effects. Medicinal cannabis products may contain THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the psychoactive component in marijuana that causes a ’high’, be CBD-based (cannabidiol, non-psychoactive), or both. People are generally aware of the risks that cannabis can pose behind the wheel, THC impairs cognitive functions and motor skills, affecting memory, attention, decisionmaking capacities, mood and more. CBD-based medicinal cannabis products may not produce a ‘high’, but they could have similar side effects. And, because of contaminants, CBD products are known to
lead to positive THC screenings. Medical Review Officer (MRO), Dr Mary Obele, has observed this in her work, “Determining work-readiness for someone prescribed medicinal cannabis is a nuanced process. CBD and THC’s effects vary, and it’s critical to assess how an individual’s role might be impacted. It’s also important to assess their role against the side effects of the medication, be it an opioid, benzodiazepine or medicinal cannabis.” An MRO can assist to determine whether a person’s use is in line with their prescription. TDDA strongly recommends businesses use MROs to gain actionable, legally robust information.
ARE YOU IN CONTROL OF YOUR DRIIVERS? OR IS SOMETHIING ELSE?
Businesses also need to act in line with relevant health, safety, privacy and employment laws and regulations. Comprehensive providers like TDDA can help businesses understand their obligations. Employers should proceed with caution and seek appropriate advice before making any employment decisions where cannabis use is for medicinal purposes. Don’t leave room for risk – consult experts, update your drug and alcohol policy and educate your workforce to ensure a safe and compliant workplace.
Driving on drugs can cost your business time, money, your reputation and human lives. Call TDDA today to design a comprehensive testing regime for your transport business!
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ROADS transport
THE PACKARD MOTOR MUSEUM
TRANSPORT NEW ZEALAND MADE.
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By Geraldine Craw
An interesting aspect of the Packard Motor Museum is the variety of New Zealand designed and produced vehicles and machinery on display. Each shed offers some hidden gem of historical significance.
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overnment policies, and import restrictions put in place at various times over the 20th century, as well as our distance from other markets, resulted in a ‘do it yourself’ mentality. Early New Zealander’s coped with local conditions by making vehicles and machines to fit the task – or modifying what vehicles they had.
For example, our 1920s Natrass Bush Loco, built by Howard Natrass, is a Fordson conversion made to run on wooden rails. This little tractor-loco replaced the horses that pulled logs out of the bush and up to the sawmill. Our grader collection displays several NZ built graders. The first designed and built by A&G Price in Thames. Also the Boothmac manufactured in Christchurch. The 1950s saw the manufacture of the Christchurch-engineered Stewart Motor Scooter. Stewart hoped to capture the NZ Vespa market, but pressure from BSA ended up making this unviable. Perhaps the best known NZ vehicle is the Trekka. This vehicle is the only motor vehicle
for roads and r
to be designed and mass-produced in New Zealand. While other NZ designed vehicles were built, none reached the production of the Trekka. 2,500 Trekkas were built between 1966 and 1973. The Trekka was initially designed by Phil Andrews’ Motor Lines company, a firm which imported Skoda vehicles, then manufactured by Motor Holdings, Otahuhu. The vehicle bodies were locally built and the runninggear was from the Skoda Octavia, imported in kit-set form from Czechoslovakia.
The Trekka was a product of import restrictions designed to encourage higher NZ content in locally assembled vehicles. In our Big Back Shed is the NZ designed Gnat, a farm vehicle built through the 1960s. Along with this is the Farm Bike and Mountain Goat manufactured in Waitara. Eventually New Zealand vehicle manufacturing ceased. These vehicles in our collection are a reminder of past NZ initiatives.
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in northland 2023
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Supporting Roadside Safety: Northland Rescue Helicopter Launches 2023 Fundraising Appeal
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s the 2023 Northland Rescue Helicopter annual fundraising appeal launches, the life-saving air ambulance service is backing calls for roadside workers to be treated with safety and respect by motorists.
“Road carnage is traumatic for everyone, especially for those picking up the pieces, simply because those incidents impact heavily on those involved – from children, friends, and family, to work colleagues and first responders.
Our local chopper service has operated since 1988 and regularly attends road crashes. The service recognises the role so many Northlanders play in helping out, including roading crews.
“Like everyone assisting in times of need, our Paramedics and Pilots see that trauma more than they would like to because we attend dozens of road crashes annually.
Northland Rescue Helicopter Critical Care Paramedic Paul Davis and Pilot Steve Couchman acknowledge that the dangers on our region’s roads are apparent daily. “No one wants to be first on scene at a serious or fatal crash, and that can be anyone from a passing motorist to a road worker to any of the first responders we work with throughout the year,” the pair say.
“As members of the community, like our roading crews, we don’t want to see unnecessary harm to anyone in Northland, so we encourage any efforts by motorists on our roads to slow down and adopt safer driving habits. “We all need to drive to the conditions, keep to the speed limits, wear seatbelts, restrain children, and respect other road users. Moreover, we need to respect road workers
Northland Rescue Helicopter Critical Care Paramedics ABOVE: Steve Couchman RIGHT: Paul Davis
because their job is not easy, and they are doing their best to keep us safe. “As we head towards the summer holiday season and with so many road repair and improvement projects underway throughout Northland, like Northland Road Policing, we encourage people to drive with far more caution to minimise potential danger to themselves and others on our roads,” say Davis and Couchman. Northland Rescue Helicopters complete around 1,200 missions annually. Since establishing the air ambulance service in 1988, they have transported well over 25,000 people. The summer holiday period is usually the busiest, with up to nine flights per day.
Northland Road Policing has previously stated that every time there is a needless crash on our roads, emergency services in Northland are hampered in their ability to attend other incidents to help people, and that’s why our regional road carnage needs to stop.
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Keith Andrews. Proud partner to Northland’s incredible transport industry for over 30 years.
Keith Andrews proudly represents Mercedes-Benz, Freightliner and FUSO trucks with dedicated sales, parts and service in Whangarei and throughout the North Island. The passion, dedication and innovation we see from our region’s transport operators has driven those same qualities in our own team. Our own founder instilled the values of respect, teamwork, and ‘owning it’. He asked his team to sit in the customer’s seat. These classic Kiwi traits, shared throughout the industry, are those by which Keith Andrews stands to be measured today. We thank all of those with whom we have had the honour of working over the past 32 years, and we’re here to acknowledge the hard work and deserved success of all who continue to drive Northland’s transport industry forward.
50 Rewa Rewa Road, Raumanga, Whangarei Open: Mon-Fri 7am-5pm Sat 7am-12pm Phone: 09 430 3900 KEITHANDREWS.CO.NZ