Mangawhai Focus_Issue 7_2 December 2024

Mangawhaifocus

The orange road cones, which have been such a feature of Molesworth Drive over the past three years, have at last been replaced by happy cyclists and walkers. The official handover of the shared path was celebrated earlier this month.

Shifting sands on Mangawhai spit raise concern

A recent survey of the Mangawhai spit has found that the barrier has lost just over 260,000 cubic metres of sand in the past six years, equivalent to 26,000 standard dump trucks or about 1.8 per cent of the total spit sand volume.

The information is contained in a mapping report, which compares data from a survey done this year with a similar survey in 2018. The report is part of a larger project which is endeavouring to compile an accurate scientific picture of Mangawhai Harbour’s terrestrial and marine environments. It was prepared by Professor Mark Dickson, of Auckland University’s science faculty, on behalf of residents’ groups, Mangawhai Matters and

Mangawhai Harbour Restoration Society.

The survey found that erosion on the estuary side of the spit has occurred while the oceanfacing dunes in the northern part of the spit have increased in elevation. It also identified low points in the dunes, which could be vulnerable to breaching.

Mangawhai Matters chair Doug Lloyd says this latest report identifies precise areas where the spit is vulnerable to flooding from the sea and harbour.

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“More severe and longer lasting storms associated with a warmer climate could open the spit up to a major breach, with all the attendant risks to the natural environment and the community,” he says.

continued page 2

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Shifting sands on Mangawhai spit raise concern

“While the frequency and severity of storms cannot be predicted, the evidence of the spit’s weaknesses identified in the Auckland University report justifies increasing defensive measures now.”

So called “bathtub modelling” indicates that a typical annual storm coinciding with spring high tide would be unlikely to inundate the spit, but there were at least two areas toward the southern end which have low points in the dunes that could potentially overtop.

“Relatively modest increases in sea level by 2040 are unlikely to materially change inundation or the risk of breaching in a typical annual storm,” the report said.

“But by 2080, if the morphology of the spit does not naturally adjust upward in response to sea level rise, the annual storm is likely to inundate the spit both through the distal northern portion of the spit and at several discrete locations on the oceanside of the spit where the dunes are low-lying and discontinuous.”

However, Dickson warned against jumping to any conclusions.

“We are unclear whether the considerable (10 to 25 metres) westward movement of dunes on the southern end of the spit over the last six years is transitory or part of a longer-term pattern. More monitoring data are required,” he said.

Commenting on the benefits of revegetating the spit, he said that there was real value in adding vegetation.

“Plants help build a reserve of sand in the dunes, which can prevent erosion during a natural weather event.

“But if it is a significant storm, where you can get coastal erosion of up to 50 metres, then no amount of vegetation will help.”

On a positive note, Dickson said the spit was notably wider than it was in 1978 so it was less vulnerable to breaching today than it was then.

He said a storm with similar properties to the extreme event of 1978 would likely produce total water levels of around 3.2 metres, which would still inundate large portions of the spit and could potentially cause breaching.

The report also drew attention to the estuary channel and how it was a factor in breaching. The spit neck was unusually narrow prior to breaching in 1978 and the harbour shoal, adjacent to the spit neck, was unusually wide, the report said. This combination had made the spit particularly vulnerable to breaching. The report recommended on-going monitoring of the spit, with particular focus on the position of the estuary channel, the growth of the estuary shoal adjacent to the spit neck, the width of the spit neck, and the ongoing east-to-west movement of the beach shoreline and spit dunes.

The survey was undertaken using funds from a targeted rate. Kaipara District Council collects the rate on behalf of the Mangawhai Harbour Restoration Society and expects to hand over just over $400,000 (including GST) this financial year.

Auckland University used a drone based LiDAR system to conduct the survey, which allowed researchers to compare topographic changes with data from the earlier aircraftbased LiDAR survey done in 2018. from page 1

Spit stabilisation work showing success

Mangawhai Harbour Restoration Society (MHRS) teamed up with Mangawhai Shed, Trackies (Mangawhai Tracks Charitable Trust) and residents in July and August, installing hundreds of metres of fencing and transplanting 4000 native coastal grasses along the dunes.

Protection of the distal spit is an essential element in shielding the mainland from storms.

MHRS chair Peter Wethey says the fencing has succeeded in trapping up to a metre of sand in some areas and holding steady through recent windstorms.

“The work is a promising outcome for our ongoing coastal protection and made possible thanks to the generous funding from the Mangawhai Community Opportunity Shop Trust,” he says.

Regular rainfall has also supported ideal growing conditions for the spinifex, despite some plants in the more exposed areas facing

tougher conditions than those embedded behind the fences, where they are protected from wind and sand movement. Wethey says the spinifex is looking strong and healthy, and overall survival rates are encouraging.

“This early success is critical, as the plants will help anchor the sand and stabilise the dunes,

further protecting the harbour from weather events,” he says. “As we prepare for next year’s planting season, we need more volunteers to continue this important work.”

For more information on MHRS and details on volunteering, visit www. mangawhaiharbourrestorationsociety.com

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Protective measures taken earlier this year to protect the Mangawhai spit from erosion look to be working.

Although

and inviting, built-

tranquil waters, causing concern for boaties and harbour guardians.

Dredging solutions face costly consent hurdle

The high cost of solutions and shifting accountability has left Mangawhai Harbour guardians at a loss as to how to help prevent boaties continuing to run aground.

As previously reported (MF, Sep 18),a number of boats heading out at low tide have become stuck on the seafloor due to sand build-up.

Environmental guardians Mangawhai Harbour Restoration Society (MHRS) have monitored and dredged the estuary since the 1990s, an activity required to keep the channel’s natural current flowing and to ensure safety for vessels.

However, to dredge the shoals along the builtup section and dispose of the seabed sand, a new resource consent will be required which, due to its hefty price tag, remains outside the MHRS financial brief.

Located in front of Mangawhai Heads Holiday Park, the clogged channel lies along a dredging exclusion zone, a sand disposal site used over 10 years ago, which was given a Significant Ecological Area (SEA) classification by Northland Regional Council (NRC) in 2015 and updated in 2022. Although initial enquiries were made for MHRS to contract their dredging services to NRC in the problem area, it was refused due to the SEA. One of three in the harbour, the ecological description states the sandy soft bottoms are important to pipi with extensive cockle beds which, according to a NIWA fisheries assessment programme, are ‘productive and in good health’.

The SEA means there are only two remaining disposal locations available and neither of them is favourable, coastal consultant Andre La Bonte says.

La Bonte has been involved with Mangawhai’s harbour for over three decades.

“There’s Picnic Bay on the north side of the inlet but that would require a pipeline to be submerged in a location with very strong currents so navigation is not blocked. A difficult and dangerous location for the

dredge and crew,” he says. “The other would be on the sand spit, which is administered by DOC and requires their approval of deposition areas months in advance, if at all.”

Due to numerous environmental classifications placed on Mangawhai Harbour, gaining resource consent to maintain and protect the area has become “extremely challenging” for organisations and individuals.

Dredging times have also been restricted to five months a year between March and July to minimise risk to the endangered fairy terns while they nest.

La Bonte developed the original consent for the approved channel and spit restoration and revegetation project 30 years ago and believes it seems unlikely that such a project would be approved today under the current Regional Plan rules.

“The MHRS spent considerable effort and funds attempting to retain these areas for dredging and deposition but in the end, after all the appeals, were unable to do so,” he says. “Based on all the restrictions now placed on MHRS restoration work, I have no practical suggestions that wouldn't involve costly exercises with no guarantee of a positive outcome.

Councillors share dredging opinions

Kaipara District Council

Mangawhai-Kaiwaka ward councillor Mike Howard is calling on Northland Regional Council (NRC) to step up and secure the necessary resource consent to allow dredging to continue.

“Everybody agrees about the ongoing movement of sand in the harbour and channel,” he says. “It is in NRC’s hands to secure resource consent for this work under their safety responsibilities and this may require deeper consideration rather than simply an emphatic ‘no’.”

Howard has also queried the position and colour of a channel marker. Located where there is a build-up of sand, the tall pole is painted yellow, which he says holds no nautical meaning.

“As most markers are either red or green to give direction, boaties don’t understand the yellow other than it highlighting the five knot speed limit.

“The real points of issue relate to what we see as a lack of NRC going the extra mile to work with us to find mutually suitable solutions.

“Collectively we appreciate the good relationship our groups have with NRC. However, that shouldn’t negate the aspiration of better understanding and a more engaging relationship with the regional council. We really feel that we are all in this together and

fully cognisant that any solution will only come from the best form of working together.”

Northland Regional Council

NRC councillor Rick Stolwerk says although NRC is responsible for maritime safety, it has no legislative responsibility to keep the harbour waters navigable.

“Dredging is both costly and has potential environmental consequences, who pays and benefits, and what the economic trade-offs are key considerations,” he says. “For example, if Whangārei's main channel became too shallow, dredging would have to be considered to keep their operations going.

“Kaipara District Council provides rating support for the current dredging activities within Mangawhai Harbour … which might also be considered as a bar harbour with a history of sand movement. The channels are dynamic and will change, and are not suitable for larger vessels at all states of the tide.”

He says navigating safely through Mangawhai’s harbour is the responsibility of each skipper and as with a lot of smaller estuarial harbours, local knowledge and care is needed.

“There are no nautical charts specific for Mangawhai, it is an estuarial harbour with large shallow parts. Boaties need to know their skill levels, plan for weather and tide, and learn the dangers of bars and currents. The safe

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advice is ‘if in doubt, don’t go out’.”

Stolwerk says NRC’s maritime responsibilities are fulfilled by its harbourmasters and include education and enforcement of water safety and environmental protection such as dealing with wrecks, abandoned vessels and oil spills. It also provides and maintains nautical navigation aids, like buoys and beacons, including Mangawhai’s Sentinel Rock light at the bar’s entrance.

“Several large steel beacons installed by the former Northland Harbour Board have been removed. The remaining one has been changed from port to starboard many times due to shifting sands and NRC decided to paint it yellow so it no longer marks any channel. Council would remove it but doesn’t have the equipment to do so.

“There are two starboard buoys in the lower harbour and two pairs of channel markers towards the upper harbour. Safety information is also provided at the boat ramp, in three motor camps and on NRC’s website.”

At this time, he says NRC has no specific concerns about the impact of not dredging the built-up channels of Mangawhai’s harbour.

“Coastlines and harbours are dynamic and will continue to change. No doubt discussions will continue around economic, cultural, recreational and environmental aims and the costs associated with different actions.”

peaceful

up seabeds are disturbing Mangawhai’s

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Pathway completion celebrated

After three years of design, construction and traffic disruption, Mangawhai’s muchanticipated third section of the ambitious Shared Path project has been officially signed off.

Phase three – the 1.5 kms between Mangawhai ITM and Wood Street and a 900-metre stretch from the Village to Mangawhai Central including the boardwalk – was formally opened with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on November 26, attended by Kaipara District Council (KDC) staff and elected members, project contractors and involved locals.

On snipping the ceremonial tape, Kaipara Mayor Craig Jepson said the completion of phase three was a huge achievement for the community.

“It’s been very successful, the quality of the work is exceptional and in terms of the path to use, it’s really satisfying,” he said.

“As you get older like myself, being able to exercise in your community is important and you can see people of my age using the path now, whether it’s biking or walking and is great for those in mobility scooters and wheelchairs.

“Everybody can benefit from this path so it’s a fantastic facility to have.”

In his congratulatory speech, Jepson acknowledged council project manager Tim Manning, his crew and sustainable engineering and environmental consultants Stantec.

“It must be satisfying to design a project like this and then see its successful completion.”

Jepson also recognised Waka Kotahi NZTA for providing hefty subsidies and the $2.4 million Provincial Growth Fund, which helped kickstart the project in 2021.

“The money spent here is probably a one-off for this community given how tight the economy is. There is no funding to complete the two sections of phase four, from the Heads to the surf beach and along Insley Street, but we’ll be working on that because ultimately, we want to go all the way.”

Deputy mayor Jonathan Larsen began campaigning for improving pedestrian and cycle safety eight years ago due to “Molesworth Drive’s goat track being quite treacherous.”

“This is an almost $13 million project that

CRACKERJACK

we’ve built, big money compared to our little council budget and I want to acknowledge former councillor and deputy mayor Peter Wethey who did the legwork behind the scenes,” he said. “I think it’s going to give Mangawhai a huge lift and I look forward to seeing everyone using it this summer.”

The Shared Path project started in 2016 after KDC initiated a panel of local representatives to put recommendations forward for a Mangawhai Community Plan. The result was two key elements – a slower street environment and a Shared Path.

Manning acknowledged Belinda Vernon as the chair of that work, for having that vision and seeing it come to fruition.

“That’s really special,” he said. “I’d also like to acknowledge the businesses, residents and the community who have suffered a lot of disruption over the last three years and have been understanding and patient with us.”

Manning also gave special mention to the Rākānui Art Village along Molesworth for donating land for an easement “and just for being easy to deal with” and the Mangawhai Tracks Charitable Trust aka the Trackies, for their work on the Back Bay boardwalk.

“After the cyclone damaged it, and with the support of KDC, the Trackies got this repaired and open in time to enable pedestrians to use it as a detour during the Shared Path construction, which was very helpful for us.

“It has also been a real pleasure to work with the Downers team, they’ve genuinely taken the project on board and the quality of work is fantastic. They’ve been extremely efficient, delivering the project on time and to budget.”

Peter Wethey was reflective on past council projects.

“For this community after the blowout of the wastewater plant, those words of finishing it on time and on budget are very significant,” he says. “It’s a tribute to the way Tim, the council staff and the professional way the companies that have been building this walkway have gone about their business. I hope that many more council projects come in with those same words at the end, ‘you brought it in on budget’.”

There was not an orange traffic cone in sight as council members and staff, contractors and residents cheered the official opening of Mangawhai’s long-awaited Shared Path recently.

Christmas Aroha Basket drive returns

Since 2019, Te Whai Community Trust, with support from the community, has donated more than 500 Christmas Aroha Baskets to Mangawhai residents.

Each Aroha Basket contains a variety of festive foods, Christmas dinner and gifts for children to open on Christmas Day. Recipients are nominated by the service’s clinical team, local schools and other practitioners in the Mangawhai area.

Recipient of a 2023 basket Stephanie Lineham was thankful for the love and care her whānau received through this initiative.

“As a solo parent, it’s been a great help. It’s relieved some of the burden of Christmas costs and I’m also able to share with my extended family,” she says. “Being able to select age-appropriate gifts and having one of my children select a gift for me was a lovely surprise. We’re very grateful to the community for their kind and thoughtful donations.”

Te Whai marketing coordinator Kylee Newbold says there’s no doubt that 2024 has also been a struggle for many small businesses.

“Please consider supporting Mangawhai business owners by purchasing gifts and foods locally to spread the Christmas cheer,” she says.

Non-perishable festive food items and new unwrapped gifts for children (newborn to 18 years) can be left at the collection points listed below, on or before Monday, December 16.

“A huge thanks to our collection points, amazing community members for your donations so far, our volunteers and staff. This initiative would not be possible without your support.”

Donation collection points:

♦ Barfoot & Thompson ♦ Bayleys

Mangawhai ♦ Before 6 Daycare ♦ Bunnings

Mangawhai ♦ Christ the King Anglican

Church ♦ Four Square Mangawhai Heads

♦ Mangawhai Beach School ♦ Mangawhai

Library ♦ Mangawhai Museum ♦ Mangawhai

Opportunity Factory ♦ Mangawhai

Pharmacy ♦Mangawhai Village Preschool ♦ Miniwhais ♦ NewWorld Mangawhai ♦ Ray White Mangawhai ♦ St John Op Shop ♦ Te Whai Community House .

Financial donations for purchasing food and gifts can be made via www.tewhaicommunitytrust. co.nz/donate

Te Whai also welcomes contact from local growers who may be able to donate excess produce around December 17. Please email wellbeing@tewhaicommunitytrust.co.nz

BREAM BAY

9.00am Departs Kaiwaka Kaiwaka Hall 9.15am Departs Mangawhai Village Village Shops Bus Stop (by restrooms)

9.20am Departs Mangawhai Heads I-Site

9.35am Departs Langs Beach Corner of Wairahi and Cove Roads

9.40am Departs Waipu Cove Beach Car park

9.50am Departs Waipu Monument Bus stop

10.10am Departs Ruakākā Peter Snell Road (opposite Takutai Place)

10.50am Arrives Whangārei Rose Street Bus Terminus

*For travel within Whangārei see CityLink Whangārei timetable www.citylinkwhangārei.co.nz or get your timetable from the Rose Street office.

AFTERNOON

3.00pm Departs Whangārei Rose Street Bus Terminus

3.40pm Departs Ruakākā Peter Snell Road (opposite Takutai Place)

The Lineham whānau, recipients of a Christmas Aroha last year.

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Dig, Grade, Roll and Deliver

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Andréa Bull 021 431 407 Email pca@thecareagency.nz www.thecareagency.nz

Willow-Jean Prime, Labour MP willow-jeanprime.ea@parliament.govt.nz

Luxon’s leadership failure

The Prime Minister has failed to show leadership and kill the Treaty Principles Bill. It’s time to stand up for our shared history and tell the government why they are wrong to divide us.

trust or goodwill earned by Treaty settlements is under threat”.

Andréa Bull 021 431 407

Email pca@thecareagency.nz www.thecareagency.nz

SPECIAL EVENT:

Te Tiriti o Waitangi is our country’s founding document. It forms the basis of the relationship between Māori and the Crown, and the Aotearoa New Zealand we live in today. Northland was the birthplace and home of the Treaty. Leaders of all stripes convene here every year on Waitangi Day to pay homage to this history.

The thousands who recently marched through Northland, as part of the national Hīkoi to Parliament, was certainly a powerful reminder that we here in the North still live and breathe the mana of Te Tiriti and the Māori-Crown relationship it fosters. David Seymour’s Treaty Principles Bill, now introduced to the House, seeks to fracture that relationship. It is intended to divide our country.

The bill has no support from any other party in Parliament. Even so, Christopher Luxon is allowing it to be debated for six months, after which time it will be voted down by most of Parliament, including his own party.

If all that sounds like a waste of time and money, that’s because it is. Rather than further the partnership between Māori and the Crown, Luxon is bowing to the wishes of David Seymour, as he did so many times during their coalition negotiations. The bill is also harmful. Government officials warn the bill could cause “significant social harm”. Christian leaders say it is “treacherous and dangerous”. The Waitangi Tribunal says “any

Former National MP and Treaty Minister Chris Finlayson calls it “pernicious nonsense”. Current Finance Minister Nicola Willis called it “dangerous” because it is one party seeking to impose new terms on another without their consent. Christoper Luxon himself says “there is nothing in the Treaty Principles Bill I like.”

We called on that very same Prime Minister to show leadership, stand by his convictions and kill the bill. More than 15,000 Kiwis signed our open letter. Luxon could and should have listened. But on this, and so much more, he is failing as a leader. He is failing, and the result is a government that is harming Māori. National has repealed Māori wards, removed funding for Māori language classes, abolished the Māori Health Authority, cut funding to Māori Television and 51 roles at the Office for Māori Crown Relations, and much, much more.

We need leadership, not someone content with failure. Not a leader so weak he is willing to risk our nation’s progress just to keep David Seymour happy. Not a leader who allows an abomination like the Treaty Principles Bill into the House, even though he doesn’t support it. Not a leader who changed the bill’s launch day so he wouldn’t be around to face the music. That’s cowardice, plain and simple.

Christopher Luxon letting the Treaty Principles Bill through will cost taxpayers millions, divide our country, and ultimately take New Zealand backwards.

Postie’s last delivery

Last seen on the road more than 100 years ago, a historic postal cart was wheeled into the the foyer of the Mangawhai Museum this month. The red horse-drawn postal cart delivered letters and parcels in the Mangawhai and Hakaru area during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. John-Harry Ryan was one of the posties who used it.

The cart is called a butterfly gig because of its mudguard design and was painted in Post Office colours – red wheels, steelworks and shafts, and a black main body. Unique features include an adjustable seat to regulate weight distribution and professionally made wheels with steam-bent fellows – two per wheel.

Dig, Grade, Roll and Deliver

Jim Stubbs purchased the vehicle for about $500 at an auction clearing sale by the Pohuehue viaduct, south of Warkworth, in 1974. The gig was stored on his property at Tomarata until it was donated to the museum by his daughter, Jody Richards, in memory of Jim who died last year.

Restored by Bevan Lawrence, the postal cart was last publicly displayed at the Puhoi Centenary in 1963, making the chance to see this vestige of the past as part of the museum’s Christmas display all the more special.

The museum is open for late night shopping on December 7, 14 and 21. Open until 8pm.

The museum will also celebrate its 10th birthday on December 6 when there will be cake and free entry, 10am-4pm.

The postal cart is a special feature of Mangawhai Museum’s Christmas display.

Council considers boat ban at Lake Tomarata

Auckland Council wants to hear community views on the idea of banning boats from Lake Tomarata, south of Mangawhai.

It is currently consulting on ways to balance biodiversity priorities and users’ recreational needs at the lake. Feedback closes on December 8.

Auckland Council Policy and Planning Committee chair Cr Richard Hills says it is important to hear from the local community – people who access Lake Tomarata and know it best.

“This will help ensure we have wide ranging views and feedback from community to assist our decision-making,” he says.

Hills says Auckland’s lakes, streams and wetlands face many challenges such as habitat loss, pollution from excess nutrients such as

nitrogen and phosphorus, sedimentation, and changes in water levels and flow patterns.

On top of these, invaders such as koi carp and hornwort weed are also a big problem.

Natural environment specialist services head Dr Imogen Bassett says that like invasive marine species, introduced freshwater species are often difficult to control once they arrive, so preventing further spread is important.

“Whether we are going for a swim, kayaking a lake, or shooting ducks, we all have a part to play in preventing the spread of freshwater species that can contaminate our gear and the next location we visit,” Bassett says.

“A new freshwater invader, the freshwater gold clam, was discovered in the Waikato River last year. These clams can spread quickly, with each clam able to have up to 70,000 juveniles each year.

“Their microscopic young are tough invaders which can easily attach to and travel on wetsuits, kayaks and other gear unless the gear is completely dried out and treated. Because wake boats cannot be completely dried, they are an especially high-risk item when moving from gold clam-infested areas.

“If they were to invade Lake Tomarata, they may make swimming less appealing, with periodic mass die-offs of clams affecting water quality.”

In the current consultation, council is asking if motorised boats should be banned from Tomarata to manage this high-risk pathway to a lake that is already under pressure.

“Vessels moving at speed on the lake are also causing the shoreline to break up, churning up lakebed sediments, disturbing bird nesting and contaminating the lake water with fuel.

Motorised craft also pose safety challenges, limiting the use of the lake for passive recreation such as swimming and kayaking,” Bassett says.

“However, we know that motorised boating at Lake Tomarata is also a valued recreational experience for the local community and beyond.”

How to provide feedback: Online: https://akhaveyoursay. aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/protect-ourenvironment Email protectourenvironment@ aucklandcouncil.govt.nz Visit a local library for more information.

Former Rakaunui artists’ retreat

A boutique gallery featuring the creative talent of 17 local artists has opened in Mangawhai.

A 10-minute stroll from Mangawhai Village along Molesworth Drive, SW Gallery sits on the former art retreat, Rakaunui, making it a fitting location, SW founder and local artist Shann Whitaker says.

“Rakaunui has long been an area where creative locals have lived and worked, and the gallery building has housed ceramicists and artists in the past,” he says. “Three current Rakaunui residents have artworks on display and I hope the gallery will help inspire more creative output.”

As a member of the Mangawhai Artists Inc (MAI), Shann and other artists are able to display their work for a fortnight at the Moir Street gallery. However, the full-time artist, designer and art consultant wanted to create a space where art could be showcased all year round.

“When this little cabin became available to rent, I snapped it up as I saw the potential of having a gallery along the now-completed Shared Path walkway.”

The rustic interior is filled with a wide range of art, from large vibrant paintings, watercolours and colourful ceramics, to intricate glassware and jewellery, silk printing, woven baskets, bespoke knives, children’s books and even coffee.

“I’m also slowly building up a collection of outdoor sculptures so the area surrounding the gallery will become a place where people can wander around to admire the local creations,” he says. “The vision for SW Gallery is to have a space that presents an eclectic mix of artwork while supporting local artists, a place that showcases the abundance of creative talent Mangawhai has to offer.”

SW Gallery, 34 Molesworth Drive Mangawhai. Open Mon-Fri, 9am-3pm; Sat, 9am-noon.

Lake Tomarata is a popular destination for water skiers and swimmers, but some of these activities could be putting the lake’s natural environment at risk.

The new gallery, founded by Shann Whitaker, is embracing the artistic history of Mangawhai.

Kaipara Kōrero

News from Kaipara District Council

Land value vs capital value – how should we set the general rate?

Have you given your feedback on the draft Revenue and Financing Policy yet? Now’s the time! Consultation is open through to Sunday 15 December 2024.

The key proposed changes are:

• Moving from land value to capital value for the general rate

It’s time to think about water use

Summer is on our doorstep, and it’s time to start preparing for the drier weather. Be wise with water at the beginning of the season to ease pressure later on.

Check for leaks, make sure taps aren’t dripping, and check your pipes are still in good condition. Dry soil and ground conditions can put pressure on ageing pipes and cause them to crack and leak. A telltale sign of cracked or leaking pipes are large spots of lush green grass. If you spot a water leak in a public place, give us a call on 0800 727 059.

Are you on tank water? Keep an eye on your water tank levels and think about booking in water deliveries while the water supply is still reliable. Later in the season it can be difficult to book water carriers and your water may cost more.

For those on town supply, council staff are closely monitoring water levels as we come into the summer season and will be directing water restrictions if necessary.

If you don’t already have the Antenno app on your phone, download it now to receive council notifications straight to your phone.

Kaipara District Plan

District plans direct how we change, develop, and use our environment, as well as how we protect and safeguard it for future generations. We are continuing to make progress on the Proposed District Plan, which is currently in its development stage.

• Changing the differential for commercial/industrial properties from 1.55 to 1.1

• Equalising the capital costs of stormwater across the district

This last proposed change affects those who are currently paying the targeted stormwater rate.

Use the QR code to head straight to the webpage for more information, or pop into one of the council offices or the Mangawhai or Dargaville Library.

The Proposed District Plan is expected to be open for public submission in early 2025 once the plan receives approval from council for public notification. At that time, you’ll be able to submit your views and have opportunities to be a part of the process.

Kahikatea Forest Wednesday Weed Warriors

The Wednesday Weed Warriors launched their first community weed action event in the kahikatea forest at Memorial Park on Wednesday 27 November. The focus of the day was learning to identify invasive weeds and beginning removal to make way for native trees such as the kahikatea, New Zealand’s tallest native species.

Join the Memorial Park Wednesday Weed Warriors 9-11am every Wednesday and help protect our kahikatea forest.

Upcoming council meetings

Council Briefing, 9.30am Wed 04 Dec, 1c Molesworth Drive, Mangawhai and on YouTube

Remuneration and Development Committee, Public Excluded, 1pm Tue 10 Dec, 1c Molesworth Drive, Mangawhai

Council Meeting, 10am Wed 11 Dec, 1c Molesworth Drive, Mangawhai and on YouTube

Please visit Council’s website for the most up-to-date information or call Council on 0800 727 059 and ask to speak to a Governance Advisor.

Check

Land Value (LV) is the value of your land

Value (CV) is the land value plus improvements made to the land, such as buildings.

Sustainable Kaipara

Sarah Bray media@mangawhaiartists.co.nz

Unwrapping the cost of Christmas consumption

Consumerism is heavily pushed during this time of year, and the mental burden of figuring out how to consume responsibly can feel overwhelming. Navigating ethical consumption is like walking through a minefield – can it even be achieved? And yet, there’s something really lovely about giving the people you love and care for something that brings them joy.

Ethical consumption is the practice of making purchasing decisions that consider the social, environmental and ethical impacts of the products or services being bought. It involves supporting businesses and products that align with values such as sustainability, fair labour practices, animal welfare and social justice, while avoiding those that contribute to harm or exploitation.

According to industry body WasteMINZ, the festive season creates 30 per cent extra waste annually, with a whopping 1600 tonnes of wrapping paper alone being sent to landfill – that’s equivalent to 10,000 trees. We’ll also create 25,000 tonnes of plastic packaging waste and we’ll waste a third of our Christmas food. Just picture that – one third of the food on your Christmas table ending up in the bin (or at best a compost!).

But the good news is, it really doesn’t have to be this way. With a little bit of mindful shopping and extra planning, it’s super simple to reduce consumption and waste at Christmas time.

Each year, millions of gifts are exchanged. Not only are these gifts often mass-produced

and of poor quality, but are they even wanted? One of the most impactful actions you can take this Christmas is to give gifts that are genuinely needed or desired. Ask for a wish list or check with family members to find out what might be appreciated. For extra help, Ethically Kate has a great sustainable gift guide online.

Avoiding excessive packaging is more challenging. It often requires thoughtful consideration of whether a purchase is truly necessary, as most plastic packaging isn’t recyclable (Tip: it needs a number 1, 2 or 5 on it to be recyclable in your yellow bags). However, soft plastic packaging can be recycled locally at New World Mangawhai (thanks, team!). You also get to decide how you wrap gifts. Investing in reusable fabric gift bags is an excellent way to cut down on waste. Alternatively, use fabric you already have at home, or repurpose paper bags and shopping bags you own.

Finally, food waste is entirely avoidable. The Love Food, Hate Waste Chill Out campaign offers plenty of practical tips, including proper meal planning based on the number of guests, clearly labelling leftovers so they can be frozen, and avoiding impulse buys at the supermarket – you know the ones, the “specials” at the end of the aisles!

Perfection isn’t the goal here. Small, intentional steps can make a big difference. Choose a couple of areas to focus on, and enjoy the festive season knowing you’ve made thoughtful choices and managed your impact.

Sleigh bells ready to ring

Mangawhai’s fun-filled Santa Parade will take to the streets in all its tinsel-clad, jingle bell glory on Sunday, December 15.

Heading off from Sellers Reserve at 1pm, the convoy will cruise through Wood Street shopping centre before making a left onto Molesworth Drive, where it will head to the Mangawhai Activity Zone.

After disembarking from his locally-made sled, led by the famous red-nosed reindeer, the season’s red-suited star will take centre stage on his throne to hand out presents and pose for photographs.

A Christmas Concert will kick off in MAZ’s lower fields at 3pm and will feature a lineup of local and imported talent. This year's event is facilitated by Mangawhai’s Song Conversations co-founder and musician,

Kiri Eriwata. It will cater for all ages and be “beautifully vibrant with some amazing acts interwoven with the Christmas spirit”. Parade organiser, Santa’s best mate and head elf, John Phillis says he has been conversing with Santa, who says he cannot wait to come down to his favourite place again to sprinkle some Christmas magic in the community. “Santa just loves coming to Mangawhai and, of course, we’re pleased to have him here again. He’s looking forward to meeting all the boys and girls and kids of all ages,” John says. “So find a good spot along the route, bring your blankets and picnics for the concert, and take in some Christmas spirit, it’s going to be a great day!”

Info: John Phillis 021 339 329.

National award for women in dairy

Nominations and applications are being sought for the 2025 Fonterra Dairy Woman of the Year. The Dairy Women’s Network (DWN) is looking for “outstanding women who support the wider dairy sector and its people, are committed to giving back to their communities, and have a vision to add value to the future of dairy through their leadership aspirations”. The winner will receive a scholarship to the Kellogg Rural Leadership Programme, which includes the programme fee, travel, and accommodation, mentoring and access to DWN and Fonterra platforms to share their research. Applications and nominations close 28 February. Info: https://www.dwn.co.nz/fonterra-dairy-woman-of-the-year/

It’s anticipated that at least 40 floats will join this year’s parade.

Tomarata fireworks goes off with a bang

A crowd of around 4500 attended the Tomarata Fireworks on November 9, marking the event’s 21st birthday. As well as a spectacular pyrotechnic display, there was face painting, food vendors, rides and live music from Tomarata School’s kapa haka, young performers and the main act, Whiskey In A Jar, which added to the carnival atmosphere. The event raised $30,000 for Tomarata School and organisers thanked volunteers for their support.

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Park-council partnership recognised

A decade-old partnership between Kaipara District Council and Friends of Mangawhai Community Park (FMCP) was recognised on November 18.

FMCP oversee the running of the 32.5 hectare park, which stretches along Molesworth Drive from Mangawhai Museum to the Bowls Club.

FMCP current and past representatives gathered at Mangawhai Club to mark the 10 year milestone, and present Mayor Craig Jepson and two local councillors, Rachael Williams and Mike Howard, with a framed print depicting an artist’s impression of the park.

FMCP was formed in 2010 with KDC becoming involved in 2014, and is a collaboration of various charitable trusts, services and organisations who have a license to occupy the park. These groups include the Historic Village, Daring Trust, Mangawhai Museum and Information Centre, Mangawhai Activity Zone, the Mangawhai Chartered Club, Mangawhai Bowls and Mangawhai Artists Inc. Services Hato Hone St John Ambulance, the volunteer Mangawhai Volunteer Fire Brigade, Piroa Conservation Trust, Mangawhai Tracks Community Trust

aka the Trackies, and Weed Action are also involved.

The groups advocate for the development and environmental conservation of the natural space securing fundraising and grants for maintenance, projects and improvements. FMCP also provides recommendations and advice on administrative and operational matters.

After thanking FMCP members for the picture “which will hang in the office”, Jepson acknowledged the work of his staff and councillors.

“Managing growth is challenging and to have the best facility we can for the whole community is part of that challenge,” he said.

“I’d actually like to put the old welcoming Magical Mangawhai signs back at either end of town and add, ‘Go away we’re full!’” Jepson acknowledged the park volunteers, saying that with “not a lot of money in the coffers”, it was important to encourage and support their work.

“That’s how things get done. Congratulations and thank you to all the people who have worked for so many years, to make Mangawhai what it is, you’ve made this community park really something. Thank you.”

Friends of Mangawhai Community Park and council members at the recent celebration of their working partnership, where Mayor Craig Jepson was gifted a print representing the recreational freedom on offer at the park.

Introducing Rural Ride Repair (RRR)

With the onset of seasonal warmth heating up the growth of garden vegetation, having necessary machinery breakdown can be an infuriating annoyance.

However, with a wagon decked out with tools and products, a new mobile service Rural Ride Repair (RRR) is now available to conveniently bring the workshop to the customer.

RRR owner and qualified mechanic, Seften Gillon, has five years experience in the industry, and is specifically trained to repair and maintain lawncare and agricultural machinery such as ride-ons, push mowers, small tractors and quad and farm bikes.

The Hakaru-based local decided to leave his mechanic job of five years and take the

plunge into self-employment after seeing a gap in the market for a mobile service, saving customers the trouble of loading machinery onto a trailer for a trip to a mechanic.

Currently, RRR services clients from Te Arai, Mangawhai, Kaiwaka and out to Bream Bay and Maungaturoto.

From a young age, Seften had an innate sense of mechanics, taking motorised toys apart to inspect the inner workings and enjoying the challenge of putting them back together. More so than not, they worked again, he says.

“I’m still passionate about machines and like to tinker around in my garage at home with all sorts of engines,” he says. “I also enjoy helping out people, so if I can make getting equipment fixed easier and more hassle-free for locals, it’s a great use of my time.”

Seften Gillon

Art and Soul

Belinda Vernon media@mangawhaiartists.co.nz

Exploring ideas of time

Sparkle and Fade, an exhibition by Nick Blake and Michelle Fyson, opened at the Mangawhai Artists Gallery last Friday.

This is the couple’s second exhibition at the gallery. Over many years, they have been exploring ideas and creativity using different media in both 2D and 3D.

“We like to consider ideas in different ways to gain a deeper understanding of them both for ourselves and to share with others,” Nick says. “In Sparkle and Fade we have been considering the idea that all things have their time to rise and fall – to be at their peak and then to wane.

“We recently travelled to England and Northern Scotland where we were interested to look at old ancestral connections with the land and the traces that prehistoric communities have left behind. The works in this exhibition are all interconnected and focus particularly on the elements – air, fire, water and the land itself.

“As people who live in Aotearoa, we also wanted to feel a deeply held connection to the land to better understand the connection of tangata whenua. It was a particularly rich experience for us. Previously we have spent time in Japan and have come to see their love for the great beauty found in shadows and darkness. Living rurally has meant that we can see the extraordinary loveliness of the night on a regular basis.”

Michelle says Sparkle and Fade is expressed through different media.

“There are traditional paintings, observing small details and moments reflecting the passage of time and light in the natural world.

The Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow boxes can function as a receptacle for contemplation of your thoughts – past, current and future.

The Flower Holders are made using old

timbers from a previous workshop location, which can hold both flowers or seed heads.

“The Light boxes utilise old urushi paper Japanese fabric stencils that can literally Sparkle and Fade at the flick of a switch!”

The process for these works was collaborative.

“We literally pass paintings and the other works between each other to work on. Our intention is to make our collection of work an expression of the ideas behind it, rather than of an individual.”

‘Sparkle and Fade’ is open daily at the Mangawhai Artists Gallery, 45 Moir Street, Mangawhai, from 10.30am to 3.30pm until Thursday, December 12 (and from 9am on Saturdays). The annual Christmas Exhibition opens on Friday, December 13 and runs through to Tuesday, December 24.

Dr Judy Selvaraj / Registered Educational Psychologist PhD (Ed), MA (Hons, Psych), MEd (Hons), BA (Psych/Ed), (The University of Auckland) Post-Graduate Diploma in Secondary Education

Psychology Behaviour Education

Seniors social group takes a classic cruise round town

An adventurous group of Mangawhai’s older citizens took a trip back in time recently with a joyride around town.

Six beautiful old vehicles including a 1925 Hupmobile, 1950’s Riley Drophead 1936 and an Austin 7 aka ‘Miss Ruby’, parked up outside the Mangawhai Senior Citizens Hall on November 22 where the Mangawhai Social Seniors (MSS) meet every Friday.

The passengers, all women, got into the theme donning bonnets, scarves and even a fur stole for the classic convoy, which also entertained children at a preschool as they passed by.

Around 25 women and men meet every Friday to socialise at the hall, sharing a morning tea and light lunch, enjoying company over various leisure activities such as board games and craftwork, as well as organised events such as speakers, musical entertainers and outings.

some do jigsaws, others like to knit together, sometimes people just need to talk. They really look forward to the Fridays.”

Originally set up by the government after World War II, MSS has gone through a number of name changes as the group's purpose has evolved. First called the Civilian Maimed Association, a nationwide organisation to help civilians damaged during the war, before changing to Community Mutual Aid and then Community Morning Activities.

However, organisers felt this title did not reflect the true group's social and friendship status and changed the name ‒ and acronym – to Mangawhai Social Seniors in 2022.

Run by volunteers, Roberts says they work with the community.

Judy is skilled in inclusive education and assessment. She is enthusiastic about reducing the barriers for those who have specific learning challenges, so they have equitable learning opportunities.

www.northpsych.co.nz info@northpsych.co.nz

MSS coordinator Jo Roberts says the group, which has a paid membership of 40, is about creating “a bit of stimulation and involvement in the community”.

“These are the people who, on the whole, are not able to play golf and bowls and all those sorts of activities. A lot of them haven’t got transport, so kind people pick them up and bring them in,” she says.

“Everyone just does whatever they like,

Funds raised from membership fees, raffles, koha and a bazaar trading table are sufficient for the group to have an outing every term.

“We’ve got quite a substantial kitty so we splash out when we can. We’ve been up to Waipu Museum and Pizza Barn, next week we're going to the Mangawhai Tavern and the following Friday we have a ukulele group Herding Cats coming in to entertain,” Roberts says. “There is always something happening with the Social Seniors and new members are welcome.”

Nick Blake and Michelle Fyson.

Sunshine was out and seniors were in for a classic car joyride chauffeured by owners. Mangawhai Social Seniors coordinator Jo Roberts (orange hat), joined by volunteers Marie Fitt (blue hat) and Jane Vaughan (yellow scarf), says the group is for fun, friendship and to keep people involved in the community.

Kaipara Kōrero

News from Kaipara District Council

Reminder - council services during holiday period

During the holiday period critical council services continue, with some changes.

Customer service desk

Council offices are closed from noon Tuesday 24 December and reopen Monday 6 January 2025. Our 0800 727 059 telephone number is monitored 24/7. We will still respond to urgent service requests. You can also complete some services on our website.

Rubbish collection and recycling services

Kerbside collections due Christmas Day (Wednesday 25 December) will be collected Tuesday 24 December

Extra collections for summer hotspots are:

Mangawhai – Rubbish and Recycling Thursdays – 26 Dec, 2 Jan and 9 Jan

Glinks Gully – Rubbish only Thursdays – 26 Dec, 2 Jan and 9 Jan

Baylys Beach (from Rehutai Road) - Rubbish only Fridays –27 Dec, 3 Jan and 10 Jan

Dargaville Resource & Recovery Transfer Station hours:

• Wednesday 25 December – closed

• Thursday 26 December – closed

• 27-28 December – open normal hours

• Monday 30 December – closed

• Tuesday 31 December – open normal hours

• Wednesday 1 January – closed

• Thursday 2 January – closed

Hakaru Re:sort Centre:

• Wednesday 25 December – closed

• Thursday 26 December – closed

• Wednesday 1 January – closed

Building inspections

The last day for inspections will be Friday 20 December 2024 and inspections resume Monday 6 January 2025.

Building and resource consents

The processing clock stops on both building and resource consents at 4.30pm Thursday 19 December 2024 and restarts 8am Friday 10 January 2025.

Animal management and noise control

Animal management and noise control will respond to all Priority One calls over the break. If you contact us with an animal or noise complaint during the break, you will receive a call back from the on-duty officer to determine whether a response is required.

LIMs

The statutory closedown period for LIMs starts Friday 20 December 2024 and ends Friday 10 January 2025. Processing will recommence from Monday 13 January 2025. Any applications received after Monday 9 December may not be issued prior to our closedown period.

LGOIMAs

The processing clock for LGOIMAs stops Friday 20 December 2024 and resumes Monday 13 January 2025.

Alcohol licensing

December

The last day for processing alcohol applications is Thursday 19 December 2024. Processing will recommence Thursday 16 January 2025.

Libraries

• Dargaville Library closes at noon Tuesday 24 December 2024 and reopens at 9.30am Monday 6 January 2025

• Maungaturoto Library closes at 1pm Tuesday 24 December and reopens 10.30am to 1pm on Friday 27, Saturday 28, Monday 30 and Tuesday 31 December, Friday 03, Saturday 04 and Monday 06 January.

• Mangawhai Library closes at 1pm Saturday 21 December, reopens 10am to 5pm Friday 27 December, 10am to 1pm Saturday 28 December, 10am to 5pm Friday 3 January and 10am to 1pm Saturday 4 January.

• Kaiwaka Library closes at 6pm Monday 24 December and reopens 4pm Monday 6 January.

• Paparoa Library closes at 1pm Tuesday 24 December and reopens 2pm Monday 6 January.

Mangawhai Heads Reserve Concept Plan and Surf Club lease

Earlier this year we asked you what you love about the Mangawhai Heads Reserve area and what improvements you would like to see. Using your feedback and other supporting information, we’ve prepared a Draft Reserve Concept Plan for Mangawhai Heads Reserve and want to know what you think. We’re also keen to hear from the community on our proposal to grant a new lease to the Mangawhai Heads Volunteer Surf Lifesaving Club.

Find out more and give your feedback online: kaipara.govt.nz/haveyoursay or drop into KDC’s Mangawhai office for a feedback form.

Mangawhai Activity Zone (MAZ) carpark closed

Work is underway to improve drainage and seal the main MAZ carpark at Mangawhai Community Park. The carpark will stay closed for at least another two weeks while the work is happening. We’re expecting to have it all finished up by mid-December and looking smooth for the summer months!

Sweet-smelling success for seasonal show

Like bees to a beautiful blossom, swarms of visitors attended the recent Mangawhai Flower Show, making the annual event a blooming success.

With vases, saucers and baskets filled with home-grown vegetables, buds and blooms, the Village’s Mangawhai Library Hall was a fusion of vibrant colour and sweet perfume on November 20.

A prominent feature was a stunning floral display hanging from the stage ceiling.

Among the many green-thumbed winners were talented sisters, Nina (11) and Jessie (14) Schurmann, who literally stole the show, taking out two top prizes for their creative displays, as well as several other awards.

Nina was first in the carnation/dianthus stem section, for corsage and in the decorative category with her creative miniature springtime arrangement, which was also selected for a Judges Choice award for Overall Decorative.

Jessie placed third for her vase of daisies and first in both the wreath section and wildflowers, which the judges also chose as a winner in the Overall Cut Flowers section.

Both girls received prizes from outdoor ornament business and major sponsor,

Mangawhai Community Gardens won a bird bath for its swan-like squash, entered in the Choice for Vegetable Display. Bonnie Gray took home a Mignon bust when she won the Faraway Garden Wonderful Award.

Winners in the remaining 32 categories received Bunnings vouchers, with Egmont Seeds gifted to second and third places.

Coordinated by Laureen Medcalfe and Sandra Brunt, the show’s following has grown in the three years since the women resowed the free event after former organisers, Mangawhai Women’s Institute, closed in 2019.

Sponsored by Bunnings Mangawhai, Egmont Seeds Co, Faraway Gardens and Juicy Media, the show has a team of volunteers involved, with more people signing up for next year’s event.

“So it will continue to flourish,” Laureen says.

“It’s been another awesome show. The community support is amazing, we’ve got fabulous sponsors, great judges and a fantastic team of volunteers including florist Viv Massey who arranged the beautiful ceiling display even with her leg in a moon boot!”

The organisers thanked everyone involved in the show, from the judges and helpers to the participants, and say they are looking forward to doing it all again next year.

Milky Way Glow Worm Cave

@ WAIPU CAVES FARM PARK

A destination like no other, hosting a diverse range of nature-based activities and environments including the Milky Way Glow Worm Cave and the Jurassic Walks. See NZ’s world-famous glow worms, pristine cave formations, stalactites, stalagmites and flow stones. Learn about the glow worms and geology of the recently opened Milky Way Glow Worm Cave. This is one of only a few caves in NZ where you can take photographs. The Jurassic Walks, spread over 320 acres, has multiple tracks through the karst limestone and biodiverse native bush. Rock climbers can climb one of 3 climbing crags with many routes. Bike on the farm roads and meet the friendly farm animals.

Visit for the day or stay for several at one of our three tent or motorhome camping areas with cooking, toilet and shower facilities.

Faraway Garden – Jessie a Delphine planter and Nina a Windermere bench seat.

Multi-award-winning sisters, from right, Jessie and Nina Schurmann, with nine-yearold cousin Christie. The girl’s floral creations took out several categories including two Judges Awards, which won them stunning outdoor ornaments such as Nina’s bench seat.

Flower Show coordinators Laureen Medcalfe and Sandra Brunt with major sponsor and supporter Faraway Gardens co-owner Kate Tattersfield.

Zonta turns golf club orange

A colourful crowd brightened up the Mangawhai Golf Club on November 14 to show their support for a global campaign, calling for an end to gender-focused violence.

Just over 100 people attended Zonta of Mangawhai’s (ZoM) fundraising quiz night, an event that marks the start of Zonta International’s awareness campaign, ‘Zonta Says No’.

A leading global organisation running for 125 years, Zonta has 1100 clubs in 64 countries with more than 26,000 members, who advocate for and work to build a better world for women and girls.

Dressed in a variety of orange outfits –the recognised colour of the campaign –participants vied for the annual Zonta Says No trophy, while raising more than $2000.

Taking away the Zonta Cup was winning team No Pride aka Mangawhai Lions, with member Clive Hebden awarded Best Dressed in his orange op-shopped sheet trousers and orange headband.

ZoM also erected orange doors along Mangawhai Golf Club’s fence on November 25 to highlight the Zonta Says No to Violence awareness campaign.

In her welcoming speech, co-chair Liz Holsted reminded people of the worthy cause they were supporting.

“These funds will again help us to offer a $3000 scholarship next year to a local woman returning to education, to help her supercharge her future,” Holsted said.

Sponsors Mangawhai Meats, Forgotten Fruits Nursery, Kate Pointon Beauty, PSL Construction, Bunnings and Mangawhai Golf Club were thanked for their support, as well as the quiz participants.

Making life easier for migratory fish

Migratory native fish will have a better chance of navigating their way past a Ruakākā weir used for a public water supply in future.

The Whangarei District Council-owned weir in Flyger Road was identified by NIWA and Northland Regional Council (NRC) as a barrier to migratory fish as part of mahi being undertaken through a Ministry for the Environment-funded fish passage project.

The site was selected for the installation of a full width rock ramp using locally sourced rock and materials. The ramp will allow all fish species to pass over the weir in a wide range of flow conditions.

NRC Councillor Rick Stolwerk says the regional council recently led a large-scale fish survey in partnership with Patuharakeke Te Iwi Trust and Department of Conservation (DOC) in a bid to understand how much impact the existing weir was having on fish populations upstream.

In total, 80 Gee’s minnow traps and 24 fyke nets were deployed in 800 metres of the Ruakaka River.

The survey was supported by multiple NRC staff from the compliance, biodiversity, land management, monitoring, and policy teams. Whitebait Connection and DOC also lent their support in the massive task of trap and net retrieval and identification of species.

“We now know some fish, particularly those with climbing abilities, do get past the weir and its associated rock ramp (a previous attempt to improve fish passage) in certain flow conditions,” NRC project lead Jen

Mander said.

“However, the numbers for fish that do not climb, including smelt, inanga and common bully, are severely reduced upstream compared to the downstream reach.”

The survey data showed 30 times fewer juvenile inanga were caught above the weir than below it (797 below, 27 above).

“This has provided evidence of the severe impact the structure is having on fish migration for these species and has highlighted the need for remediation.”

The survey found inanga, common bullies, redfin bullies, smelt, torrentfish and tuna (eels) of varying sizes.

Councillor Stolwerk says many native fish species are migratory and need to move between the ocean and fresh waters to complete their lifecycle.

“At this time of year, juvenile galaxiid species, collectively known as whitebait, enter our rivers from the ocean to begin their journey upstream to find habitat to grow and mature. “Man-made structures such as weirs, culverts, and fords can hinder or completely block fish migration leading to species decline within a catchment.”

Funded by the Ministry for the Environment, NIWA and AFPS are working together to design and install a 25-metre long rock ramp fishway.

“Once the fish pass is complete, we will be able to compare the data from this survey with future surveys to measure the effectiveness of the remediation.”

Clive Hebden (third from right) won best dressed with an orange op-shop ensemble.

From left, Elliott Brown and Manaia Tuhoro, of Te Pou Taiao o Patuharakeke, with Dave West (DOC) and Jen Mander (NRC) identifying fish species during the recent survey.

A cautionary Christmas tale …

Tis the season for mistletoe, mince pies and … workplace disasters? With Christmas parties just around the corner, employers would do well to learn lessons from the ghosts of Christmases past.

In 2021, an Australian employer faced a fine of up to $87,000 for a bad taste and illegal Christmas party prank. While it was an extreme case, it does illustrate well what can go wrong when you mix enthusiasm, alcohol, immaturity and a lack of social awareness about how human beings are meant to interact in the 2020s. In that case, an apprentice employee was suspended upside down from a mobile crane during his workplace Christmas party and then hit and slapped by his boss and so-called workmates. Understandably, the behaviour was degrading and humiliating to the employee and the employer will justifiably face a significant fine and a potential criminal assault charge.

On our side of the ditch, the worst example of such behaviour occurred in New Zealand in 2020, and is sadly even graver. The company involved was having a Hawaiian-themed Christmas party and one employee set fire to the synthetic grass skirt of another. At the time the victim was in a toilet cubicle with another employee and, tragically, that prank cost the life of one employee and seriously injured the other employee. The events resulted in a manslaughter conviction and a sentence of two years imprisonment. Like the Australian example, it is hard to ignore the cocktail of end of year enthusiasm, alcohol and an absence of rules or structure.

As employers and managers in a work setting we are always responsible for staff, and are legally obliged to ensure that there is a framework that provides a safe workplace for our staff to work and if required, party, within. For example, if the employer provides alcohol to such an extent that it results in someone not exhibiting proper judgement, then the employer is (together with the offending employee) likely to be liable for the resulting behaviour and any

adverse impact it has upon other employees. Each year we see common themes which highlight the kind of behaviour at Christmas parties that causes problems. Regardless of whether you are an employee or employer, I suggest you stop history repeating itself by avoiding the situations below and staying out of trouble this Christmas season.

Talking smack about your employer, manager or colleagues (or for that matter, your employees)

It is a fact that alcohol loosens lips and lowers inhibitions. Maintain your personal dignity and professional responsibility by not relaxing your guard and talking negatively about the environment in which you work. Christmas parties are a positive occasion and no one enjoys partying with a negative Nelly. Being overly affectionate with a colleague

Overly emotive and affectionate interactions with other colleagues are almost always regretted in the light of day. This kind of behaviour makes the recipient – and the people witnessing it – feel uncomfortable. Even though it’s a party, you are in a work environment and the boundaries around physical contact still apply.

Sharing information that wouldn’t otherwise be shared

The relaxed and buoyant mood of a Christmas party often results in people disclosing information that wouldn’t otherwise be shared. In the pursuit of forming closer work relationships it is tempting to create bonds by sharing gossip. With respect, this is a low rent way of building sustainable relationships as it undermines relationships rather than fosters them.

As an employer, you don’t want to be the Grinch that stole Christmas, but you do need to show leadership. Model fun and appropriate behaviours that allow everyone to return to work on Monday without embarrassment – or even worse, a visit from HR.

Storage Mangawhai

CLASSIFIEDS

TEMPORARY ROAD CLOSURE

Pursuant to the Transport (Vehicular Traffic Road Closure) Regulations 1965, the Kaipara District Council hereby gives notice that the following roads will be temporarily closed on the days and at the times below for the purpose of holding the Northern Bass 2023/24

Thursday 28 December 2023 at 00:01 until Monday

Settlement Road, Kaiwaka – Restricted access. Access for resident and local traffic only.

Valley Road, Kaiwaka – from Settlement Road to Pritchard Road, Kaiwaka – Restricted access. Access for resident and local traffic only.

Country character main building, centrally located in Kaiwaka opposite the wellknown Kaiwaka Cheese shop and the iconic Utopia Cafe. High visibility to north and south bound traffic, diagonal SH1 frontage parking separated from the SH1 traffic.

Shop 2: 140m2 retro style interior, rear access to 35m2 outdoor area and offstreet parking area. Some internal fittings and separate storage/office/kitchen areas.

Shop 3: 45m2. Modern interior. Full frontage visibility. Shared facilities Contact: 0274 353 535 for details.

ELDER CARE

I offer 24 hour care for 2-5 day periods. 13+ years experience assisting with diverse needs. Email: margbrowne13@gmail.com or call 029 020 386 22.

Let us update or create your Will.

and

Lawrence Road to Cames Road, Kaiwaka –restricted access. Access for resident and local

Further information, if required, relating to this temporary road closure can be obtained from the Customers Services Team, Kaipara District Council.

NOTICE OF INTENTION FOR TARGETED SPRAYING

Kaipara District Council advises all property owners and residents of the district that weed spraying for vegetation control on edges in parks and reserves, weed control in gardens, poles/trees, urban and rural roadsides will be carried out between December 2023 and March 2024, weather permitting.

If you would prefer not to have your frontage sprayed, Council operates a “No Spray Register” which outlines agreed areas where no spraying will be undertaken during this period. You must apply to Council to be included on this register. No Spray Zone Application forms can be found on our website at kaipara.govt.

Spraying will be undertaken by Downer NZ on behalf of Council. To find out more details about this particular spray programme, call Bernie on 021802095 between

For more information about Kaipara District Council’s spraying and vegetation control, head to nz/residents/trees-and-vegetation-2/no-spray-zone

Netball Rodney Centre 2024 Annual General Meeting will be held Thursday 15th February 2024, 7pm at the Netball Rodney Centre office in Centennial Park, Wellsford.

For more information please email netballrodneycenter @xtra.co.nz.

On the Ocean

Making the most of short weather breaks

Labour weekend produced a mixed bag on both the fishing and weather fronts. For many, the Whangarei Harbour provided some respite from the incessant squalls and wind, as well as some good catches. Matters were further complicated with a rahui placed in the inner harbour out of respect for the elderly swimmer who went missing at Onerahi. Those observing the rahui could not fish west of a line stretching between Manganese Point across to Takahiwai. Outside of that extensive area, the fishing was generally good with bait and berley proving effective. Fishing the channel shoulders, sometimes in as shallow as one to two metres were the places to be, all the way from Takahiwai, east to Busby Point.

Reports posted on the popular Bream Bay Facebook page show some impressive catches of prime eating fishing in the 40-50cm bracket. There were some excellent trevally catches as highlighted by the father/daughter crew of Troy and Addie Langley. Addie, using her Shimano Kidstix rod and a micro-jig, caught a beauty which she landed with just a little help from dad.

Other hotspots included the sides of the main shipping channel from the port east out to the entrance. Surfcaster Kadin Williams of The Reel Clinic took time away from servicing fishing gear to using it. He concentrated his efforts at the Waipu Cove end of the bay with some great results – snapper to four kilos and kahawai in plague proportions. He described the fishing as “epic” and had the best results on the Saturday during the rainstorms around two hours either side of high tide. Pilchards,

bullet tuna and jack mackerel were his best baits.

Outside of the harbours the snapper have been a little deeper. Nik Key, from Snap Fishing Ventures, had a great session on Labour Day, targeting snapper in 60 metres off Ocean Beach, north of Bream Head. There he encountered consistent workups, and he believes the biomass is making its way into the shallower areas inshore pre-spawning.

Dave Gurr, from Mangawhai Diving and Fishing, headed out towards Sail Rock the week before the long weekend. He encountered some great workup action around the 40-metre mark. He was the only boat out there and was fishing the tail of the action a couple of hundred metres away from the workups themselves. The next day with steadily increasing easterlies kicking in he trailed his boat to the Kaipara, launching at Port Albert. Struggling to catch anything in the harbour he made the call to make the most of the offshore wind and head across the bar where he loaded up on some beaut snapper.

On a less positive note is the proposed fast tracking of sand mining in the greater Bream Bay area. The company currently mining off Mangawhai is behind the application and is looking to operate at a depth of 25 metres, which takes in the worm and scallop beds popular with recreational anglers. When will it all end? It seems there is just wave after wave of issues that negatively affect recreational fishers’ ability to enjoy the simple pleasure angling provides.

The father/daughter combination of Troy and Addie Langley produced this impressive trevally, fishing a micro-jig on Addie’s Shimano Kidstix rod.

5 Bunnings Mangawhai Christmas Family Event, 5-7 pm. Featuring Mangawhai Artist pop-up art exhibit

6 Mangawhai Museum Ten Year Birthday Celebration, 10am-4pm. Free entry for all. Live music, birthday cake, face-painting & more.

6 Marsden Cove Sunset Food Market, Marsden Cove Marina, 4-7pm

6 Waipu Scottish Migration Museum Whisky Tasting, Heritage School, 41 Halifax Drive Waipu, 7pm. Tickets $30pp. Spaces limited. Tickets from the museum or ph 09 432 0746.

7 Mangawhai Tavern Market, 8.30am-1pm

7 Warkworth Santa Parade, Queen Street, 2pm. Food trucks, live music, coffee, & family games from 3.30pm onwards on Baxter Street.

7 Carols in the Park, Lucy Moore Park Warkworth, 6.30pm

7 Mangawhai Beach School Community Market, 9am-1pm

7 Local Vocals Choir Christmas Concert, Wellsford Community Hall, 2.30pm. Choir songs and sing-alongs. Afternoon tea provided. Koha/gold coin entry. Raffle. Cash only.

7 Christmas Late Night Shopping, Mangawhai Museum & Shop open until 8pm

12 Free BBQ for Farmers, Tomarata Hall, 6pm. RSVP for catering purposes by emailing Hazel MacMillan at nh.macmillan@xtra.co.nz

14 Mangawhai Tavern Market, 8.30am-1pm

14 Mangawhai Beach School Community Market, 9am-1pm

14 Wellsford Variety Music Club Big Bash Concert, Wellsford Community Centre, 6-10pm. Performances and live music. Light supper provided or bring something to share. $10pp or $20 for two adults and two children. Info: Andrew 422 3424.

14 Mangawhai Karaoke, The Club Mangawhai, 7pm

14 Christmas Late Night Shopping, Mangawhai Museum & Shop open until 8pm

15 Mangawhai Santa Parade, leaving from Sellers Reserve and ending at Mangawhai Activity Zone, 1pm.

15 Mangawhai Christmas Concert, Mangawhai Activity Zone, 3pm-6pm.

21 Mangawhai Beach School Community Market, 9am-1pm

21 Mangawhai Tavern Market, 8.30am-1pm

21 Christmas Late Night Shopping, Mangawhai Museum & Shop open until 8pm

31 Waipu Highland Games, Caledonian Park, 9am onwards. Tickets $20pp from Eventfinda.

January

2 Mangawhai Gala, Mangawhai Domain, 9am-3pm. Food trucks, stalls, live music, kids rides & more.

25 Soul Rock & R&B, Tahamoana Angora Goat Farm, 566 Cove Road, 7-11pm. Tickets: https://www.eventfinda.co.nz

www.localmatters.co.nz/whats-on/

General Manager Mangawhai Golf Club

Take the reins of an iconic golfing destination. The Mangawhai Golf Club seeks a General Manager to lead our club into an exciting future. If you’re a passionate leader with a love for golf and a proven track record in hospitality and management, we want to hear from you.

About Us: Nestled in the breathtaking coastal beauty of Mangawhai, our golf club is only 1 hour from Auckland and is at the centre of NZ’s premier golfing destination. We boast not just an exceptional 18-hole course, but also a vibrant community of golf enthusiasts at Northland’s largest golf club. With its stunning views and well-maintained facilities, the Mangawhai Golf Club has earned its place as a premier destination for both avid golfers and those seeking a relaxing and enjoyable atmosphere.

What We’re Looking For: As the General Manager, you will be the driving force for our club’s future. We’re seeking an individual who brings a unique blend of strategic thinking, operational expertise, and genuine enthusiasm to continue our growth at the heart of Mangawhai’s community. You will be responsible for:

• Leadership: Inspire and guide a dedicated team to deliver exceptional service, fostering a culture of teamwork, professionalism, and excellence.

• Strategic Planning: Develop and execute strategies that enhance the club’s reputation, member satisfaction, and financial sustainability.

• Community Engagement: Forge strong connections with members, guests, and the local community, ensuring the club remains a central hub for social and recreational activities.

• Financial Management: Oversee budgets, financial reporting, and revenue generation, ensuring the club’s financial health.

• Marketing: Promote the course, café and shop facilities to attract both players and social members through social media and direct marketing.

Requirements:

• Proven experience in a leadership role within the hospitality, sports, or recreational industry. Strong organizational and communication skills.

A passion for golf and a genuine interest in enhancing the golfing experience for all members.

• Demonstrated ability to drive revenue growth and operational efficiency.

What’s in It for You:

• An exciting opportunity to leave your mark on a prestigious golf club. Competitive compensation package. Work in a stunning coastal location with a warm and welcoming community.

Room for professional growth and development.

If you’re ready to bring your leadership skills to a place where golf and community come together, then the role of General Manager at Mangawhai Golf Club is your next step. Join us in shaping the future of this remarkable club!

Application Deadline: Monday Dec 2nd 2024 Please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience to chairman@ mangawhaigolf.co.nz

Mangawhai Golf Clubwww.mangawhaigolf.co.nz

Golfers ace surf club fundraiser

As work starts on the massive slip behind the Mangawhai Heads Volunteer Lifeguard Service (MHVLS) clubhouse, locals continue to come out swinging in support.

A record crowd of 180 golfers took to the Mangawhai Golf Club greens on November 3 for the annual MHVLS Golf Tournament, raising just over $15,000.

Prizes were donated by main sponsors New World Mangawhai, as well as a long list of

local and Auckland businesses and families, with a ‘Nearest to the Pin Contest’ sponsored by Mathew Stoddart and Craigs Investments.

MHVLS chair Jess Costello thanked everyone involved in organising and staging “our biggest year yet!”

“Congratulations to all the tournament winners,” she said.

“A huge thank you to all the sponsors, this day

could not have been a success without them and to all the surf club volunteers, whose help was essential for the smooth running of the day.

“Thanks also to the generosity of Mangawhai Golf Club for allowing us to hold this charity event and charging no green course fees.

“All this support shows the commitment and passion our local community has for our surf club.”

Mangawhai Surf Club chair Jess Costello (left) handing out prizes to winners In It to Win It.

The John Seward Builders came in third.

Runners up, Moxie Blow Ins.

The Fast Eddies finished fourth.