Mangawhai Focus_Issue 8_ 16 December 2024

Kapawiti natives saved by local protest

For the second time in three years, a small kahikatea forest has been saved from the axe, thanks to a band of locals who made a stand against its destruction.

In the early morning hours of December 5, Kapawiti Road residents held a peaceful protest to protect the small thicket after discovering contractors might be removing the trees as part of a Kaipara District Council (KDC) plan to widen the road.

The kahikatea, possibly 60 to 80 years old, are at the foot of the Brynderwyns on a tight Y-junction leading to several properties including Mangawhai Hills, a 47-hectare development project of Mangawhai Heads Holding, owned by Kaipara district’s deputy mayor, Jonathan Larsen.

A similar protest was held in September 2021 when several trees including totaras and puriri were earmarked for removal. However, this was deemed a mistake by KDC as work to widen the road had not been finalised.

A long-term Kapawiti Road resident, who asked not to be named, says since then locals have not received any follow-up information from KDC. Recent attempts to get an update have also proved frustrating.

“For three years, we weren’t given any information. Then in the past few weeks, I’ve been trying to talk to different members of the council roading team and was told my service request will be forwarded on and somebody will get in touch. But when someone did contact me, they were not the

right person,” he says. “Then I come home to bulldozers.”

On December 4, contractors began work before the road’s fork and progressed to clear a dense cluster of trees and allegedly a large totara on public land, directly behind the kahikatea copse. However, locals claim they were told excavations would not be conducted in that area.

“I’d literally been talking to the council the day before and they said work would stop at a tree further down Kapawiti Road. The roading crew also said the same thing, no work was going to be done around the kahikateas,” he says. “To be done sneakily like that, that's just not cricket.”

Another resident camped out overnight to

guard the trees in case contractors decided “to rock up early” and was joined by other protestors at 6am. Excavation machinery rolled in soon after.

“The contractors said they had been given permission to start but I said unless they can prove they had consent, they can't. If they had one, then it is what it is, we can't do anything about it,” he says. “Five minutes later the machines were put back onto the transporter. They said they’d work down the front of the road until the council came up with the consents and possibly with a police escort. We’re not here to be a nuisance though, don’t want any aggression.”

A small band of residents made a stand recently to save the natives from the contractor’s felling equipment.

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Time to press ‘pause’

As the year draws to a close and the summer holidays beckon, it is that time of year when you pretend to love marzipaned fruitcake, listen to well-worn family stories, eat chocolate for breakfast and find 50 different ways to serve leftover ham. With its tinsel and twinkling lights, traditions, and gatherings with family and friends, the holiday season is a time to let go of the year’s stresses, have some fun and find joy in reconnecting with those you hold dear.

In the hustle and bustle of daily life, it’s easy to forget the importance of unwinding – of giving ourselves permission to step back, breathe, and embrace moments of stillness. Whether it’s decorating a tree, whipping up

a pavlova, wrapping presents or just taking a leisurely stroll along the beach, Christmas demands that we press the pause button on our normal routine. It’s about creating space to rediscover the magic around us, in the laughter shared during a holiday movie marathon or board game, the heartfelt – and let’s hope not too heated – conversations over a festive meal, or the contemplative peace of lying on the grass at night star gazing. These moments ground us and rekindle the wonder that can so easily be overshadowed by the demands of everyday life.

This Christmas, let’s give ourselves the gift of relaxation. Let’s take time to embrace the traditions that bring us joy, connect us with

Holiday hours

Mangawhai Focus will be closed for business for two weeks from December 23, reopening on January 6. For any urgent matters, contact Jannette at gm@localmatters.co.nz

the important people in our lives, and reflect on the blessings – big and small – that this year has brought. May we approach 2025 with renewed energy and clarity.

We would like to thank our advertisers for their continued support this year and wish all our readers a very Merry Christmas. May your eggnog be strong, your wrapping paper be plentiful, and your ability to fake excitement for weird gifts be Oscar-worthy. And remember, calories don’t count when you’re wearing a Santa hat.

From the Mangawhai Focus team – Bex (design), Julia (news), Hayley (advertising), Angela (accounts), Barry (distribution) and Jannette (management).

Quote of the week

Local news is disappearing, and a much-depleted national press can barely compete with the media platforms of billionaires who control users algorithmically, with an endless stream of conspiracy theories and deepfakes. George Packer, in The Atlantic.

Storm recovery dominates Kaipara’s annual spending

The impact of last year’s storms was highlighted in Kaipara District Council’s 2023/24 annual report, adopted last month.

Mayor Craig Jepson said it was clear that the weather events of 2023 had had a long tail and continued to impact council’s work programmes and budgets.

“We achieved a significant amount of recovery repair in this period and will complete the remainder across the next two years,” he said.

“With State Highway 1 through the Brynderwyns closed for some time, we also dedicated resources and time to upgrading and maintaining the detour routes to ensure Northland remained accessible and open to the rest of the country.”

The annual report revealss council’s actual financial results compared to what was planned in the budget.

At the meeting, finance manager Jessie Alison said it had been a “really tough year for council” with a lot of work completed in roading, storm recovery and flood resilience. She said the reprioritisation of the recovery work had also impacted the delivery of the capital works programme.

“Also, we had to manage the disruptions caused by the repeal of the Three Waters legislation, which required us at pace to include water-based activities and plans in our budget again – a monumental amount of work,” she said.

value of this asset and as a result, the value rose by $90 million between last valuation and this valuation.”

Council completed $32 million of capital works in the 2023/2024 year. A major part of this spend – $20.3 million – was invested in the roading network.

A number of externally funded flood resilience and recovery projects, mainly around Dargaville, were progressed, and planning started for upgrade and improvements for Pouto Point carpark, Rangiora Road reserve development, and the Baylys Beach boardwalk, all supported by the Tourism Infrastructure Fund.

Work continued building the shared path network in Mangawhai, connecting the Village to the Heads. In June, the new Pouto wharf opened to the public, the final Kaipara Wharves project, activating a water transport network in Kaipara harbour.

Progress was also made on the District Plan Review, multiple private plan changes were processed, funding distributed back to communities through the grants and contestable funds, and core services continued to be delivered.

At a glance

Activity income

Largely made up of consent fees, campground revenue, licenses and registrations, lease income, and external recoveries (bulk water supply and waste minimisation levies). Activity income was higher than budgeted largely due to Kai Iwi Lakes campground performing well with good weather experienced in the district during the peak season, whereas previous years saw weather events affecting the peak camping season. Consent activity income of $3.9 million remained on trend with the prior year (2023: $3.9 million).

KDC annual report 2023/24

Rates

The $1.2 million behind budget variance in rates income was largely due to a $928,000 penalty income shortfall. This shortfall is due to changes and improvements made to collection efforts and management of historical debtors. Council elected to no longer budget for penalty income from 1 July 2024. KDC annual report 2023/24

Dig, Grade, Roll and Deliver

“Particularly since we were to have been the first Three Waters entity formed under the old legislation.”

External debt was up by $10 million at 30 June 2024, but this was offset by $9.8 million in term deposits making the net debt consistent with previous years. The debt was repaid by the term deposit in October.

Late filing a technical hiccup

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Alison said further pressures on the report stemmed from the complexities and delays around the valuation of the assets, particularly the stopbank network valuation, which involved measuring and recording the length and breadth of all stopbanks in Kaipara.

“We have never recorded at this level of detail before. It means valuers could see the true

Dig, Grade, Roll and Deliver

Whether

Council finished the year with an operating surplus of $16.6 million against a budgeted surplus of $32.8 million, with revenue largely on track with budget.

Kaipara District Council has received a rap over the knuckles for not filing its annual report within statutory deadlines.

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There was an increase in performance across the nine council activities measured each year. This was seven more than last year with a total of 54 out of the 73 measures achieved.

The full annual report is available to view at https://www.kaipara.govt.nz/council/councilpublications/annual-report

However, chief executive Jason Maris told councillors at last month’s general meeting that it was technical matter, which had no significant consequences.

He explained that when repealing the Three Waters legislation, Central Government tried to recognise the pressure on councils to do this work and extended statutory deadlines.

“We thought this included us and this annual

report as we were significantly affected by this bill’s repeal,” Maris said. Council sought legal advice to confirm this position, but the Auditor General’s office did not agree, mainly because Kaipara had prepared a three year Long Term Plan (LTP) and the legislation only referred to those councils who had done a 10 year LTP review.

Maris said the situation boiled down to a drafting oversight as councils that were affected by both Three Waters and last year’s cyclones were technically not part of the exemption.

Kaiwaka, Mangawhai, Maungaturoto, Waipu and Wellsford areas

Upgrading and maintaining detour routes when State Highway I, through the Bryderwyns, was closed also impacted on council’s bottom line.

Kapawiti natives saved by local protest

Protestors were then left in limbo for the morning wondering when KDC staff would visit the site. No further activity occurred and then KDC engineer Blair King informed the spokesperson that no permits were required to remove the native trees.

“If anybody tries to do this at home, the number of hoops you would have to jump through and the amount of money it would cost would make it normally unfeasible.”

An alternative solution for making the road safer would be to continue the road onto a council-owned bare section, sitting directly across from the forest, the spokesperson says.

“It would allow a clearer line of sight to get around the corner and could come into a roundabout,” he says. “Why cut down a cluster of beautiful old native trees when there’s an empty paddock of gorse and grass they could use? It seems quite simple.”

Kapawiti Road resident Martina Tschirky, who has lived along the road for 20 years, appealed to elected members at the December 11 meeting for more protection of large trees. Comparing the recent excavation to the Avatar movie, she says the old bush has dramatically been reduced from an area of about 100 x 100 metres to around 16 x 10m.

“Three years ago, I presented a petition to council with 729 signatures to protect this same stand of old bush and nothing happened,” she says. “I, along with many in this community, are outraged that KDC still allows large native trees to be cut down without an ecology report or any further investigation in the name of road safety instead of investigating less invasive measures, even if they might cost a bit more. I urge you to change that.”

Council defends “minimum tree felling”

In a reply that mirrors Kaipara District Council’s response of 2021, general manager for service delivery Mat Tucker says the kahikatea are not under any imminent threat as only a minor number of trees were marked for felling.

Kapawiti Road was identified as part of the priority programme needing remedial work to increase safety and resilience. Conducted by council contractors Downer NZ and their sub-contractors, the work includes drainage, unsealed pavement strengthening, minor works to earth banks at Echo Valley Road and culverts to repair storm erosion.

Tucker says the recent works did not involve removing the entire stand of trees.

“The team identified the minimum number of trees that were needed to be removed to widen the bank to achieve appropriate sightlines and safety,” Tucker said.

“Thirteen trees close to the road and small in diameter were removed by a mechanical shear that does not have the power or blade to remove mature trees. No more trees will be cut down.”

Tucker says the team did look into using the council section opposite the kahikatea as part of the road safety works, but the investigation concluded the option was not resilient or cost-effective.

Council says it did inform residents of the works via a letter drop early this month.

However, details of tree felling were not included as under the current district plan, the work is a permitted activity in roading reserves and requires no resource consent or public consultation.

“Tree removal is never our first option. However, larger trees on the edge of banks can end up causing more damage than they do in preventing slips, as seen in Cyclone Gabrielle and evidenced through the Brynderwyns.

“They can become unstable and compete against one another for height and light,” he says. “It is important that council can carry out work in the road reserve to manage our extensive roading network efficiently and effectively. The contractors need to complete this work and plan to do so before Christmas.”

The same site three years ago shows a large reduction of the thick cluster of trees.

A barren council-owned section directly across from the trees could offer an alternative solution but council says it is not a cost-effective option.

Mangrove film given council airing

A locally-made documentary addressing the history and expansion of Mangawhai’s mangroves has recently been released, with an equally contentious plan to promote the film online via Kaipara District Council communication channels.

Made by Elevated Media with financial backing from the district’s mayor, Craig Jepson (independent of council), the documentary is a look into the marine plant’s effect on the environment and ongoing work to curb its growth.

Told through the perspective of qualified individuals experienced in the protection of Mangawhai Harbour, the film covers the positive impact of mangrove removal on birdlife, how the continuing spread of the invasive plant could harm the harbour and local economy, and explains a crucial aspect

of the mangrove debate – the difference between tropical mangroves and the New Zealand species.

The struggles of Mangawhai Harbour Restoration Society (MHRS), which currently holds a 35-year resource consent to remove juvenile mangroves over 39 hectares, to continue its work and footage of the 1991 Big Dig event is also included.

A number of longtime residents also share childhood memories of floundering and swimming in mangrove-free waters across the Kaipara district in the 1950s.

Described as an indigenous species out of control, the documentary calls for a balanced conversation and action plan between involved parties who hold differing views on mangroves, about the management and control of the plant.

Mayor’s mangrove movie motion debated

A notice of motion by Kaipara Mayor Craig Jepson to seek approval for the distribution of the mangrove documentary on the council website was carried, but not before a fiery debate around the council table.

Jepson says many residents across the district have talked to him about the possibility of managed mangrove removal.

“I’ve agreed to take a lead but there has not been a council decision to support the work, hence the motion,” he says. “The video also recognised the benefits of mangroves at certain locations. This is all about opening up a conversation because if you don’t have one about what the issues are, you’re never going to get to a position where you can do something.”

As the film was funded personally by the mayor, Jepson said it would be taken down before the pre-election period, July 11 next year, to avoid any perception of council bias.

While the majority of councillors agreed the benefit of having the film available on the

KDC site could invite open conversation about the pros and cons of the marine plant, they also raised several concerns.

Cr Mark Vincent said he did not have an issue with the film content, believing Northland did have a mangrove problem, and he welcome debate to hear contrary views.

“However, what are the precedent implications of having a video that's been provided by an elected member posted on the council’s communication channel, for promoting a particular view?” he asked

If the motion to have the documentary linked to KDC’s website was approved, deputy mayor Jonathan Larsen stipulated that a disclaimer on the origin of the film would be necessary “to show it’s not an endorsement of a particular approach”.

In her statement, Cr Pera Paniora said there was a conflict of interest and it was just common sense that a personally funded documentary by an elected member should not be available on the council’s website. The

Maori ward councillor also questioned the intentions of people with a background in development, wanting to put their views on mangrove removal out to the community.

“Why is there a need to put the film on a social media avenue that does not have high engagement numbers unless you want the council to inadvertently support the contents of the documentary? Is it that you want a wharf in the future and want to remove the mangroves so that certain plans don’t apply?

“We're supposed to be elected members for the whole district, not for our own personal interests,” she said. “I don't believe mangroves are taking over, but if they are, good on them, that’s their natural place within the moana. They provide many different advantages to our sea life and stabilise the surrounding environment.”

Chief officer Jason Marris said the motion was unusual, but did not believe it would set a precedent.

“This is a specific decision that council

makes, any sort of other non-council oriented business would still come in front of you for a decision,” he said. “We don’t have a policy around mangroves, it’s the responsibility of regional councils, but the job of elected members is to reflect the needs of our community and advocate and work on their behalf.

“The mayor is responding to community feedback and has been open and transparent that this documentary is personally funded.” In his statement of reply, Jepson said mangroves were a community well-being issue.

“I see my role as the leader of the district as bringing people’s concerns to the fore and there’s a lot of concern from our ratepayer groups regarding the mangroves economic threat to our harbour, which is a key attraction for visitors,” he says. “Our council website allows for other non-KDC functions and I think this is an important one. I think it can be a winner for everybody.”

Mangawhai mangroves come under the spotlight in a new film funded by Kaipara’s mayor.

Seawall given temporary fix

A temporary repair to the seawall, in front of the Mangawhai Heads Volunteer Lifeguard Service clubhouse, has been done ahead of the summer holiday season.

The structure was damaged in last year’s storms and the repairs addressed three areas that were identified as posing a risk to public safety.

Northland Regional Council acknowledged that the repairs provided a short-term solution while work was undertaken to design and consent a full seawall.

Over the past two months, archaeologists, contractors and iwi have been collaborating on work associated with repairing the landslide that came down in last year’s major weather events, behind the clubhouse.

Civil and geotechnical engineering business

site behind the surf club.

“This pā is one of two sites significant to Te Uri o Hau that surround the Mangawhai Heads,” Worthington said.

“As mana whenua, we are tasked as kaitiaki to protect and preserve any remnants of this pā to uphold its heritage and integrity for future generations. I’m privileged to have been involved in the excavation to help get an understanding of how our tūpuna lived and the tools they used.”

Work this month is focused on the upper section of the slip as loose, unstable rocks and debris are dropped in a controlled method onto the existing debris pile, which lies below the cliff.

Meanwhile, patrols have resumed on the beach.

Earth Stability has been clearing damaged vegetation and conducting geotechnical site investigations with the help of a helicopter.

As the slip is within a heritage site, an archaeological investigation has also been undertaken by project archaeologists and members from Te Uri o Hau Environs.

The environmental subsidiary group of the iwi has welcomed the opportunity to collaborate on the slip repair project.

Environs Kaitiaki (guardian) Shereen Worthington has been participating in the excavation of a minor-sized trench on the pā

Lifeguard Service chair Jess Costello says the warmer weather has brought plenty of people out to enjoy the coast and estuary.

“We’re looking forward to a great season and hope everyone has a wonderful, safe summer break,” she said.

The paid lifeguard service will patrol at Mangawhai on weekdays and public holidays, from from December 16 to February 14, from 10am to 6pm. Voluntary patrols will be on the beach on weekends and public holidays until Easter Monday, April 21.

Mayor’s Memo

has landed with a bang. Just in the last month some council projects have finished up: the third phase of the Mangawhai shared path has been completed – joining the last sections to connect the Village to the Heads; Hubert Linnell Reserve at the end of Rangiora Road in Kaiwaka has opened with a newly sealed carpark, dedicated boat trailer parking, improved access, lighting, a vehicle turnaround area, and a public toilet; Baylys Beach boardwalk extension has finished, improving beach access for the community and visitors; and new public toilets are opening this week at Pahi. All of these are supported with external funding, without which they would not be possible. This is just a small sample of the work that’s happened.

There’s a lot been happening on our local roading network too, including great progress on the slip remediation programme. As I write this, Mahuta Gap Road is back open and the crew are moving to fix the Glinks Gully drop out. ‘Tis the season for roadworks, as crews take advantage of the warmer drier weather and ramp up their activities. You can keep up

to date with all the work happening via the monthly roading report published on the council website.

At the council meeting last week I brought a Notice of Motion to the table regarding a video about Mangawhai and mangroves. I feel strongly about the issue of mangrove inundation in the Mangawhai Harbour and am keen for some open and active discussions on the benefits and detriments of mangrove encroachment, including our options for management of the mangroves. You can view the video Mangawhai and the Mangroves up on the Kaipara District Council website now and I welcome your thoughts and comments.

I wish everyone a safe and joyful holiday period. I hope you get some sand between your toes, share food and laughter with family and friends, and create some wonderful memories to cherish. Whatever makes you happy!

Council meetings will start back in February and I am looking forward to coming back rested and refreshed. We have a busy year ahead of us.

Mayor Craig Jepson Kaipara District

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Craig Jepson, Mayor Kaipara Council

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Archaeological investigations by Te Uri o Hau Environs members and archaeologists on a pā site, which sits above the slip behind the surf club, are part of the repair works.

Howard Kaiwaka-Mangawhai Ward Councillor

Is the future amalgamation?

Like many things in life, when you put yourself into a new activity, job or environment, you really have little idea about the nature or implications of that decision for quite some time as you learn the ropes, no matter how well briefed you might be.

I have now spent two years in a local government environment. It has been a revelation but, in many ways, a positive eye opener. While it has been a pleasure to do my personal best to serve a district and ward, there are some things that are of concern. One of these is the sustainability of local government, especially smaller councils. NZ currently has 76 local authorities, which includes 29 district councils that have a ratepayer base of less the 30,000. Some of these might well be close to “critical care” status!

A recent NZ Herald article highlighted the situation in the Hauraki District Council, which has a ratepayer base of 22,600 (about 80 per cent of Kaipara) and a rating unit (properties) of about 9600 units (Kaipara has about 17,500 of which just under 16,000 pay rates). In the last year, Hauraki budgeted for a $500,000 surplus and achieved a $17.5 million deficit, and a debt level of $100 million. Kaipara is currently around $44 million and forecasted to grow through growth in the short term.

How can Hauraki District Council recover from this scenario? Cut much of its planned expenditure including debtbased infrastructure or, very quickly, raise its population?

Ratepayers, rightly and continually, demand two core deliverables – fiscal accountability in managing ratepayer generated funds, and on-time and efficient delivery of core services. Increasingly, councils are being asked to do the basics well and forget the “nice to haves”. I can only wonder how some of these smaller district councils, let alone bigger ones, even do the basics given the compromises that have to be made. That concern leads to what I call a deeper abyss when it comes to matching available funds with the delivery of future core community needs. Certainly, good growth can be a benefit, but only when professionally managed.

KDC staff did an amazing job in late 2023 and early 2024 in twice reviewing all the water and

roading infrastructure needs Kaipara has over the next three to 10 years as a result of change of government. To balance the books, make rates as affordable as possible and not cripple future ratepayers, many millions of dollars’ worth of project work was extracted from future plans.

At some time this will need to be added back simply because of the need to manage the infrastructure security for future growth, let alone the existing population. Pushing out costs by “kicking the can down the road” ultimately costs more. Arguably, small councils are as unsustainable as continuing high percentage annual rate increases.

Restructure and amalgamation?

Do we want to be part of an even larger Auckland, Whangarei or Northland council? Absolutely not! Kaipara, in whole or in part, should look south to Rodney to form a new district extracted out of the Super City – a big challenge but with the right approach it is doable. Hopefully, relevant relationships for critical infrastructure (Watercare) would be retained.

The Brynderwyns is a natural barrier in the north, as is Johnstones Hill tunnels, at Waiwera, in the south. Let’s acknowledge just where the huge majority of our business and growth comes from – it is not north of here! Dependent on final boundaries, we could end up with a viable size of around 7080,000 ratepayers and through restructure, a representative base that can fairly and proportionally represent the needs of its constituents, the demands of growth and better efficiencies for core service delivery. The status quo will simply mean the core needs of our small district are functionally reduced. Make no mistake, one of the big advantages of a small district is the ability to understand and connect quickly to local matters. But the objective counter is ‘can we sustain the investment required to deliver and maintain what we have and need in future years without massive cost/investment decreases resulting in unsustainable rates increases?’ Just trying to look for solutions.

Disclaimer: The views expressed do not reflect the views of other Councillors or staff of the Kaipara District Council.

Fireworks ban investigated

Auckland Council will investigate a potential fireworks ban amid rising concerns over public safety and animal welfare. Public consultation in 2018 drew strong support from Aucklanders with 89 per cent in favour of a ban. In 2019, council advocated for a ban on the private sale and use of fireworks across the whole New Zealand, but it was not supported by the government. At council’s Regulatory and Safety Committee on December 3, chair Josephine Bartley said council would investigate if a ban in just Auckland was possible. Cr Sharon Stewart said Auckland should follow Australia’s lead and just have public fireworks displays.

Curtains Shutters

FRIDAY& SATURDAY

Art on display is For Sale

3/4 January 2025

@ the Mangawhai Community Hall (behind the Med Centre, Fagan Pl)

OPENING HOURS

10 am – 4 pm

FRIDAY& SATURDAY

Art on display is For Sale

Fresh is best

Volunteer emergency services are again selling Christmas trees to raise much needed funds. Here’s what you need to know:

Hato Hone St John Ambulance Wellsford

• Sold at Wellsford Hammer Hardware until Christmas Eve.

• Trees are available during the store’s opening hours: weekdays 8am to 5pm, Saturday 8am to 4pm, Sunday 9am to 2pm.

• Standard trees $55. Large trees (three metres plus) $125. Tree stands $45.

• Wellsford Hammer Hardware owner Mitch Martin says all money from the Christmas tree sales goes to St John so “come on down and show your support”.

Hato Hone St John Ambulance Mangawhai

• Trees on sale at the station until sold-out.

Weekdays 3pm to 6pm, Saturday and Sunday 9am to 1pm.

• Standard tree $55. Pick up only. Stands $40. Festoon lights: small $50, large $60.

• Organiser David Prescott says the money goes towards the well-being of the volunteers who have to deal with some serious call-outs – it might be a barbeque where they can talk and offer each other support. It also helps pay for different training events held offsite. Mangawhai Engineering and Marine was thanked for supplying a storage container for the trees.

Kaiwaka Cheese Shop is selling Christmas trees on behalf of Hato Hone St John Ambulance until sold-out, 9am to 5pm, seven days a week at the store. Standard trees $45.

Christmas tree care instructions, thanks to the Warkworth Volunteer Fire Brigade.

Christmas tree tips

Make a fresh cut at least one to two inches from the bottom of the trunk before placing it in the water.

• Water regularly.

• Initial watering: place the tree in water immediately after making the fresh cut

• Daily maintenance: refill the stand with clean water daily. A tree can absorb up to a gallon of water

• Use the right stand: choose a stand that holds at least a litre of water, and keep the water topped up at all times. Avoid letting the water level drop below the base of the trunk, as this can cause the cut to seal and stop absorbing water

• Avoid keeping your tree in a hot room or in a sunny spot.

• Optional additives: while plain water will suffice, some people add tree preservatives or homemade solutions like sugar, aspirin and Epsom salts. Dissolve before adding to the water.

Sales from Christmas trees will help fund St John and volunteer fire brigades.

Expressway pop-up events hit the road

As geotechnical work continues, the project team behind the Ara Tūhono – Warkworth to Te Hana motorway is visiting community markets and events over the summer to share progress and hear feedback from locals.

Waka Kothai NZ Transport Agency (NZTA) says the pop-up events will provide updates on the entire Northland Corridor Roads of National Significance programme from Warkworth to Whangarei, and are designed to reach the maximum number of people across north Auckland and Northland.

NZTA is currently undertaking geotechnical investigation on the Warkworth to Te Hana section, with more than 500 metres of borehole drilling already completed. The work includes using helicopters to move machinery in to hard-to-access areas of Matariki Forest in the Dome Valley. Ecologists and archaeologists have also joined

the team to assess sites for possible heritage discoveries.

The name Ara Tūhono was gifted to the project by treaty partners Hōkai Nuku and means ‘a connecting pathway’. Hōkai Nuku is the authorised voice of four iwi and hapū mana whenua – Ngāti Manuhiri, Te Uri o Hau, Ngāti Rango of Kaipara and Ngāti Whātua – whose rohe are affected by the new road.

NZTA has worked with Hōkai Nuku since 2010, when the partnership was formed to collaborate on the Ara Tūhono – Pūhoi to Warkworth stage and they will continue to provide cultural and environmental advice for Warkworth to Te Hana.

The Northland Corridor Summer Roadshow will be at the Mangawhai Tavern market on January 11 from 8.30am to 1pm, and Waipu street market on January 26, from 9am to

2pm. The NZTA team will also be at the Paparoa A&P Show on February 1.

NZTA says it is looking at holding more information sessions in Wellsford and Warkworth in future as design progresses, and it will be doing targeted engagement in these areas in the new year.

“We are also sharing all of the information via our newsletters, which people can subscribe to, or visit our website to access.”

There is also a video flyover of Tūhono –Warkworth to Te Hana showing the proposed route for the corridor and how it could look.

Anyone who can’t make the summer roadshow dates and would like to talk to someone about Ara Tūhono or plans for Te Hana north to Whangarei can email northlandproject@nzta. govt.nz Flyover video: https://www.youtube. com/watch?v=lbOOG5YBnvQ Info: https:// www.nzta.govt.nz/projects/northland-corridor/

The roadshow made a pit stop at Mangawhai last month.

Free Mangawhai Bus Service

DEPART

RETURN

Heads reserve plan out for consultation

A plan that redesigns how the public can use amenities at Mangawhai Heads is currently out for public comment.

Kaipara District Council (KDC) has prepared a draft Reserve Concept Plan for the Mangawhai Heads Reserve, which removes beachfront carparks, looks at a possible commercial building near the existing public toilets and removes the existing track to Picnic Bay.

Council says the plan is intended to set a vision for the 8.5ha reserve at the end of Wintle Street, which meets the community’s future

rock, historic pā sites, carpark, toilets and the beachfront space leased by the Mangawhai Heads Surf Life Saving Club.

Key elements of the draft plan include retention of the surf club, better access to the beach and the provision of a further 101 spaces in the existing carpark, while removing 32 beachfront spaces in favour of a park.

Any funding for construction of the features and improvements shown on the concept plan will need to be progressed separately, in consultation with the community through

Council’s Long Term Plan process or via external funding.

“We first need to understand if the proposals are what the community want,” a spokesperson says. “Discussions around options for the surf club and carparking improvements identified a need for a wider discussion on the future of this area.”

Council is accepting feedback on the concept plan until 5pm on February 2, with hearings and deliberations during February and March.

A final Reserve Concept Plan is expected to go to council for adoption at its the April meeting.

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Work on the surf club has prompted Kaipara District Council to look at potential changes to the wider reserve.

Developer-funded walkway deemed unsafe by residents

A petition presented to Kaipara District Council (KDC) calling for the completion of a public walkway in Mangawhai will also initiate an investigation into developmental contributions, which allegedly paid for the path’s construction.

Representatives from Longview Estate in Mangawhai Village, handed over the 115 signatures at the KDC meeting on December 11, following consultation with councillor Rachael Williams.

The 26-metre walkway connects Weka Street with Urlich Drive, providing residents with a shortcut to Mangawhai Domain and other facilities, as well as safe passage for children to

get to school “without us having to use our cars”, Longview resident Nicola Wilson says.

“We urgently require council to complete the walkway. This was an assigned path that we believe was gifted by the developer to council as an accessway for the residents,” she says.

“To our knowledge, the developer paid the KDC contributions towards completing the public walkway, but it has never been finished to a suitable, stable level. Instead, there have been signs put up to tell residents that we are not allowed to use it.”

Entrusted to KDC in 2020, residents say the path is now precarious after some locals used it as a drive-through to avoid traffic congestion

during the construction of the Moir Street roundabouts in 2021. Now overgrown and rutted, several intrepid walkers have suffered injuries while trying to use the path, leading council to close it for health and safety reasons.

“We got in touch with the council and asked them to have a look at it, and maybe fill it in to make it level so the path can be used,” one resident, who did not want to be named, said. “They came around, took photos and measurements, then left. About six months later they returned, took more photos, went away again and came back around two months ago with signage saying we couldn’t use it.”

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Runoff from the two neighbouring private residences also leaves the walkway boggy in winter.

“It should be flat and built first as they do in other subdivisions before the houses go up around it,” the resident said. “Visitors to the Domain Gala park their cars around here and in March there’s the Food and Wine Festival where they're expecting 2000 people. They’ll all be wanting to use the walkway too.”

Councillors voted to pass the recommendation onto staff who have been asked to investigate and report back, possibly to the February 26 meeting.

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So close but so far – a handy shortcut to facilities, but Longview Estate residents are now barred from using the public walkway due to years of council delay in finishing the path.

Conservation

Adele Mangnall, Piroa Conservation Trust

A year of progress

As the year ends, I am thrilled to share the remarkable strides we have made in our conservation efforts this year. It has been a testament to the power of community and the unwavering dedication of our volunteers. Our animal pest control progress in the region has been extraordinary. The expansion of the kiwi population is a particular highlight. These iconic birds, once on the brink of disappearing from our area, are a great indicator of how the rest of our birdlife is thriving. The positive sightings and monitoring of the elusive bittern have also been incredibly encouraging. These shy, secretive birds are a vital indicator of the health of our wetlands and their presence signals a flourishing ecosystem.

We are seeing growth in the tui population and nesting of bellbirds is becoming a more common observation in the ranges. All of this has been possible due to gold standard predator control which now covers over 40 per cent, or 10,000 hectares, of the Brynderwyns. Our improving trapping networks are also focused on the survival of vulnerable species like the bittern (matuku-hūrepo), tara iti (fairy tern) and whitebait (inanga). Volunteers are the lifeblood of our conservation work. Their contributions are invaluable, from controlling predators, pulling weeds, and planting native trees to improving our freshwater catchment area. The dedication of these individuals fuels our conservation engine, ensuring it’s in good shape for future generations. More local schools have joined our cause, with students learning about ecology and participating in many hands-on activities. This involvement of the younger generation instils a connection to the environment and a sense of responsibility.

To sustain these efforts, the Trust relies heavily on donations and volunteer work.

Every dollar and every volunteer hour spent contributes to our vision of a thriving, diverse ecosystem. Community support, whether through donations or volunteering, helps us move forward.

Looking ahead, we are excited to embark on several significant projects. These include:

• A citizen science project to map the spread of climbing asparagus, a particularly invasive species.

• Expanding Predator Free Urban Mangawhai.

• Kick starting a Predator Free Waipu initiative.

These projects are crucial in our fight to protect native species and restore balance to our ecosystems. Additionally, we are exploring reintroducing other species that have been absent from our area for many years.

It is now time to take the next step forward with exciting new roles available. We invite you to join us in these endeavours. Whether you are interested in volunteering, donating or simply learning more about our work, your involvement is important. Together we can continue to make a difference and ensure that our area remains vibrant and diverse for generations to come.

We welcome you to get involved or support these efforts. Your participation could be the key to our continued success. Contact us on info@piroaconservation.org.nz

Top award for Ātiu Creek

Ātiu Creek Regional Park near Tapora is one of eight Auckland Council parks to have been awarded the prestigious international Green Flag Award this year.

The 843-hectare park sits on the Okahukura Peninsula and is one of Auckland’s largest regional parks, and its largest working farm.

Judges noted that facilities were wellmaintained, with rangers who were willing to help. More than a third of Atiu Creek is covered by mature and regenerating native forest, and it features many tracks for walking, biking and horse riding. There is also a community-run plant nursery, and bookable accommodation.

Ātiu Creek Regional Park was officially

opened in 2008, after being gifted by Pierre and Jackie Chatelanat so that the public could always access the harbour-side land Council parks committee chair Councillor Ken Turner said 23 Auckland sites had been recognised since the awards scheme was introduced in New Zealand in 2012.

The Green Flag Award scheme was started in the UK in 1997 and has since spread to more than 25 countries including NZ, where it is managed by Recreation Aotearoa.

The scheme rewards well-managed parks and green spaces, and sets the benchmark standard for the sustainable management of recreational outdoor spaces around the world.

Crown tree scheme

Trees could soon be planted on Crown land through public-private partnerships, in a bid to support New Zealand’s climate change targets and create more jobs. Climate Change Minister Simon Watts says partnerships to plant native and exotic trees on Crown-owned land represent a cost-effective approach to reducing net emissions while also delivering tangible benefits to local communities. Land Information Minister Chris Penk says the Crown holds significant land and has a responsibility to use it productively. “Whether it’s contributing to climate goals, generating returns, or improving environmental and conservation efforts, our focus is on delivering value to the public,” he says. “We are excluding National Parks, high value farming land and high value conservation land and only focusing on land which is not otherwise in use.” The government will release a request for information (RFI) on December 18 that will help clarify the conditions under which potential partners could work with the Crown. Info: mpi.govt.nz

o u r n a t u r a l s p a c e s ! H e r e ' s h o w y o u c a n h e l p & m a k e a d i f f e r e n c e :

S c a n t h e Q R

The 843-hectare park overlooks the Kaipara Harbour.

Kaipara Kōrero

News from Kaipara District Council

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.

Thanks for your feedback

Consultation has now closed on the draft Revenue and Financing Policy. Thanks to everyone who provided feedback. Submitters who said they wish to be heard in support of their submission will speak to Council during hearings scheduled for February 2025.

You can find more information at kaipara.govt.nz/revenueandfinancingpolicy

MAZ carpark now open

Thanks to all our local residents and visitors who have been so patient over the last few weeks while the main MAZ carpark was closed. We’re pleased that all of the work to improve the stormwater drainage and sealing the carpark was completed on time and open for the Mangawhai Christmas Parade. The finishing touches of line marking will be completed in January 2025.

The MAZ carpark drainage improvements and sealing was an extension of the Mangawhai Community Park stormwater upgrade project. With the stormwater upgrade delivered underbudget, the team applied to the Tourism Infrastructure Fund (external funding) to extend the project to include the MAZ carpark area, which had suffered damage in the weather events and was badly potholed. The work greatly improves the drainage of the carpark area, making it more resilient to any future flooding events.

Annual Report

The Kaipara District Council Annual Report for the 2023/2024 year is now available to view on our website at kaipara.govt.nz/annual-report

Water is a precious resource

Summer is well and truly here! It’s important that we all do our bit to conserve water to get us through these drier months. Here’s some quick tips for your household and visitors:

• Keep showers under four minutes and catch shower water for the garden

• Put mulch on your garden to reduce evaporation and keep the soil moist

• Store drinking water in the fridge to avoid running tap water until it’s cold

• Turn off the tap while brushing your teeth or shaving

• Flush the toilet less often or use the half-flush on your toilet

Ngā whare pukapuka o Kaipara Library update

Join your whānau up to ‘Super Sleuthing Spies’ – Kaipara Libraries summer reading challenge.

Create a Beanstack account here: kaipara.beanstack.org/reader365 and log and track your progress on the Beanstack app. Offline whānau can log in with a librarian at a library counter.

Register into the summer reading programme to start earning badges and prize tickets!

Fourth book in Daring ship series launched

An adventurous tale of the life and times of the 19th-century boat builder Donald McInnes, who built the Daring, was launched in full sail recently.

Seafaring author, historian and Dargaville resident Don Armitage presented an intricate outline of his latest work, Donald McInnes 1836-1918, Builder of the Schooner Daring and Other Vessels, at the Mangawhai Club on November 30.

Along with members of Mangawhai Daring Trust (MDT), the event was attended by historians, friends and family of the author, as well as descendants of Samuel Phipps, the Daring captain who purposely beached the schooner along Muriwai’s coastline nearly 160 years ago.

The 72-page biography includes details from McInnes’s immigration from Nova Scotia to New Zealand as a 22-year-old, setting up his shipbuilding yard in Mangawhai where he built nine vessels including the Daring,

surviving and working through the New Zealand Wars of 1864, and building his last boat in 1878. However, the trail goes cold after McInnes went bankrupt in 1881 due to the collapse of the Scottish banks.

“He was middle-aged, had two young kids and was in the same house until he died in 1919, but that’s it, the last half of his life is almost bereft of details,” Armitage says. “It’s not to say that the information isn’t there, however. I’ve found some of his descendents so further research will likely turn up more on his life, especially his later years, which will certainly be in a later edition.”

Mclnnes’s legacy lives on through the Daring which he built in 1863 at a coastline property close to the Mangawhai Holiday Park. In her first two years, the boat was stranded twice, at Waikato Heads in 1864 and again in February, 1865, on a west coast beach after a heavy gale swept her inland. Marooned deliberately by Captain Phipps and the crew,

Kaipara Kōrero

News from Kaipara District Council

Top tips to enjoy a Kaipara summer

Our population is expected to increase during the summer break, with people enjoying our beaches, lakes, and vibrant communities. Here are some tips to help you, your family and whānau, and others enjoy a Kaipara summer.

Exercise your dog responsibly

All dogs need and love to exercise, so it is important that you know which areas available for on and off-leash dog walking. Our website has some general rules and tips for exercising your dog in Kaipara, as well as an interactive map showing on and off-leash dog walking areas. It also shows you where dogs are prohibited. Thank you for taking the lead!

Check out SPCA.nz for some tips on to keep your pets safe during summer.

Don’t be a noisy neighbour

Be a good neighbour. Think about how your noise might affect your neighbours. If noise from your neighbour is impacting you, try asking them to reduce their noise. Alternatively, you can call us on 0800 727 059 to make a complaint. Our team will assess the situation and take appropriate action.

the schooner eventually succumbed to the dunes and lay concealed under the sand until 2018 when a storm revealed fragments of the 17-metre, well-preserved wooden hull. She was returned to Mangawhai in May 2021 and is housed next to Mangawhai Museum, undergoing restoration by members of MDT. Believed to be the lone survivor of her kind, the Daring also has Heritage New Zealand protection.

At the launch, Phipps great-granddaughter and author of his biography, Diana McGurk, and great-grandson Bill Richardson, spoke about their seafaring ancestor and generously donated his sextant, as well as sea charts, to MDT, saying they belonged with the Daring. Armitage’s book on McInnes is his third in a series telling the stories of the men connected to the schooner, with his other two titles covering the lives of owner David Kirkwood and shipbuilder David Hutchinson.

Over the last 20 years, the author has written more than 12 published works on New Zealand’s seafaring history, including a True Tales series on Kawau and the Chatham Islands, Whangarei and kiwi fisheries officers, with three more books on the way.

A former fisheries officer himself, Armitage says he has always been drawn to maritime history after a lifetime of living on the sea.

“From my teenage years, I’ve been diving and sailing at offshore islands such as White Island, Mokohinaus and Great Barrier,” he says.

“I was a commercial diver and crayfish boat owner at the Chatham Islands for many years, diving with seals and with the threat of white pointers. “I also sailed on yachts in the Pacific to South Minerva Reef, Kermadecs, Tonga and Fiji.

“I suppose it’s just who I am – there’s plenty of salt water in my veins.”

Relaxed policy on noise complaints on Christmas day and New Year’s Eve

From 6pm on Wednesday 25 December until 1am Thursday 26 December, and 6pm Tuesday 31 December until 1am Wednesday 1 January we will relax our policy on noise. On these two nights, our noise control team will endeavour to attend complaints after 1am. If you have a significant concern about noise during these times, please contact us on 0800 727 059 to let us know. Our noise control team will assess whether the noise is excessive and should be attended before 1am.

Please note, complaints cannot be made after the noise has stopped, only while it is happening so our team can attend and investigate.

Be aware of alcohol-free areas

Kaipara’s Alcohol Control Bylaw prohibits drinking and possessing alcohol in control areas, except for approved events and special occasions. Check out an interactive map on our website to see where alcohol control areas are in Kaipara. Check before lighting a fire

Fire and Emergency NZ has banned fireworks at Ripiro Beach from Friday 1 December, until further notice. Want to light a fire in Kaipara? Check whether it’s safe to light a fire, and if you need a fire permit at checkitsalright.nz

Sailor, diver, author and history buff Don Armitage with his new biography of Daring boatbuilder Donald McInnes. He is pictured with a model schooner he built and a figurine of McInnes.

Asking Price $475,000

Stephyn St James 021

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Boundary lines are indicative only

Red-tape renewal nightmare for South African store

A change in the interpretation of alcohol law has led to a Wellsford business enduring an arduous two-year process trying to get its long-standing, unopposed off-licence renewed.

Biltong Plus has been selling a wide range of South African snacks, food, drinks, gifts and crafts since 2015, including a small selection of wines, beers and spirits. Its off-licence was originally granted on condition that only South African drinks could be sold, and it has been renewed on that basis ever since.

However, when director Marisa Bosman applied to renew it in 2022, she was told after a visit by regional public health service compliance officer Sebastian Mikolos that Biltong Plus was not actually eligible for the “complementary sales” licence she held.

Mikolos told an Auckland District Licensing Committee hearing in Warkworth on September 28 that this was because such a licence depended on the bulk of sales not coming from food, whereas most of Bosman’s sales did come from food, principally biltong,

the South African air-dried meat from which the shop takes its name.

Alcohol licensing inspector Gordon Auld agreed, telling independent commissioners Gavin Campbell, John Robinson and FaAfuhia Fia that previous licences had been “improvidently granted”.

“It is conceded that the issuance of the current licence for the premises to sell alcohol while operating as a ‘specialty retail shop’ was an error,” he said.

“The prior grant of an off-licence does not justify renewing the same licence when it is clear that the premises are not eligible, and the renewal would be contrary to the [Sale and Supply of Alcohol] Act.”

Bosnan told the hearing nothing had changed in her business since it started, except for officers’ definition of how it fitted into the alcohol sales legislative structure.

“I’m quite saddened by the fact that a new interpretation can cause this much trouble for a business that’s had a good clean record,” she said.

“I feel like I’m being red-taped out of my licence and that’s quite disheartening.”

She said she’d run Biltong Plus for eight years and worked with her father in similar licensed businesses before that.

“Our neighbours love us, the economy loves us, our community loves us. It’s been really sad that this has made such a big difference to a small business that’s really trying to do its best and has upheld the law in every way possible.”

The panel heard that there had been no public objections and police had not opposed the renewal.

However, Bosman said she was almost resigned to having the application turned down, not least because a licence for her uncle’s similar business, The South African Shop in Rosedale, was declined on the same grounds last year.

She added that because of this, she had made a new application in September for a full liquor store off-licence, and had worked closely with the alcohol licensing and public

health inspectors throughout the process.

“We’ve come to a good arrangement and got a good set of requirements that we all agree on to get a full off-licence that gets us around the interpretation of food, because with a full off-licence, food is not a concern,” she said.

“I’m doing a new one because of the old one, though to me, it’s very much the same thing.”

Bosman added, however, that the new application had led to “a malicious spread of misinformation” accusing Biltong Plus of applying to be a brand new bottle shop in Wellsford, and it had subsequently received 130 public objections.

“It’s not a new bottle shop, it’s just the same as it’s always been,” she said. “I feel like I have really done my bit in trying to work with the system. This is not something I’ve done wrong, it’s a change of circumstances.”

The panel was told that a hearing into the new application had yet to be scheduled, before chair Campbell adjourned the November 28 hearing for a written decision, which is expected in the New Year.

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MAZ kids market amazes

Enterprising young locals with a mind for business and ingenuity held another successful marketing event at Mangawhai Activity Zone (MAZ) recently.

Organised and operated by children, the MAZ Kids Market on December 8 was a day of creativity, learning and community spirit, MAZ committee member Arnna Alexander says.

It is the third year the event has been held.

“It showcases the entrepreneurial talents of children as they manage their own stalls, creating and selling handmade crafts, baked goods, lemonade and a range of other things,” she says. “Despite some cloudy weather, spirits remained high with families and friends enjoying the vibrant atmosphere.”

Prior to the event, the MAZ Kids Market committee held meetings to discuss the logistics of the event including marketing, funding, stall layouts and even taking minutes.

All stallholders pay five per cent of their profit to MAZ, which goes towards maintenance. The ‘tax’ teaches children about accounts and also provides an opportunity for them to support the popular community space they enjoy.

Highlights of the event included the children's innovative products, a sausage sizzle and helpful young ‘market marshals’ who assisted stallholders and visitors throughout the day Arnna says.

“The event once again proved to be an incredible learning experience for the kids and a wonderful day out for the Mangawhai community. We look forward to doing it all again and seeing everyone at next year’s market!”

Kaipara Kōrero

News from Kaipara District Council

Rubbish and recycling services

Dispose of rubbish responsibly

Kaipara Refuse only pick up the blue or yellow pre-paid bags in our kerbside collection service. Any rubbish and recycling not in a blue or yellow bag and left at collection points – things like bottles in cardboard boxes or black rubbish bags – will not be picked up. Check the extra collections and changes to the kerbside collection schedule and put your refuse and recycling out on the correct day. This reduces the chance of animals getting into your blue bag and spreading it across the roadside. If you have a lot of recycling or rubbish and it can’t fit in your pre-paid bags, you can drop it at one of the transfer stations across the district.

Remember that the excellent team at Kaipara Refuse sort all of our recycling by hand (that’s right!), so please make sure the items you pop in the bag are clean, dry, and that only recyclables are included in your pre-paid yellow bag.

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:

• 25 - 26 December – closed

• 27-28 December – open normal hours

• 30 December – closed

• 31 December – open normal hours

• 1 - 2 January – closed

Hakaru Re:sort Centre:

• 25 - 26 December – closed

• 1 January – closed

Aleah, Pearl, Inca and Zoe.

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Plans to cut rural post services criticised

The government has received than 1230 submissions on plans that could see rural postal deliveries cut from five days a week to just three and the number of post shops down from 880 to 500.

The proposals are among a raft of planned changes to NZ Post’s mail service that the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) has been consulting on.

The plans, which would also allow NZ Post to deliver to new rural communal collection points instead of mailboxes, have come under fire from Rural Women New Zealand, which it says will disproportionately impact people living in rural areas.

Chief executive Marie Fitzpatrick said NZ Post was abandoning the quality of its service and putting commercial viability ahead of the need for rural communities to access basic postal services.

“These proposals will disproportionately impact rural communities, as well as the elderly and those with health issues and disabilities, who will be forced to wait longer and travel greater distances to do basic things like clear their mailboxes and send a letter or parcel,” she said.

“These communities often suffer from poor digital connectivity, which makes it difficult to do administrative tasks online.

“Our rural communities play a vital role in

Schools funded

New Zealand’s economy and deserve better – especially from a state-owned enterprise, which should include a large element of social responsibility.”

Fitzpatrick added that NZ Post also needed to be upfront about which post outlets it was planning to close, and that the proposals needed to be scaled back.

“The consultation document says rural communities will not be disproportionately affected, but there is no detail on where services will be cut,” she said.

“We are also concerned the consultation is being run online only, with no face-toface community engagement and a short consultation window. This has made it difficult for rural people to have their say.”

Communications Infrastructure and Trade, Ministry of Business, Innovation & Employment (MBIE) general manager James Hartley says MBIE is reviewing the feedback received before providing advice to ministers.

“Final decisions on any changes to the NZ Post Deed of Understanding will be determined by Cabinet,” he said.

“Following this, any changes to the Deed will be drafted and signed by the parties to the Deed – the Minister for Media and Communications and NZ Post. The revised Deed will be published on MBIE’s website along with a summary of submissions.”

This is likely to happen next year.

Twenty-three Northland schools and early childhood centres will share in $35,000 of Northland Regional Council Environmental Leaders Funding for projects ranging from eco-sourcing and propagating native plants to a solar panel project. Maungaturoto Primary School and community garden will receive $3000, Kaiwaka School will receive $1500 for its Rongoā Garden and Ruakākā School will receive $1500 for its Eco Warriors Compost Project. The fund is designed to support schools and early childhood centres with projects that increase their students’ knowledge and passion for the environment.

Springboard celebrates fundraising success

Youth support group Springboard held its annual fundraising dinner at Sheepworld in Dome Valley last month, capping off the Fund a Brighter Future campaign, which overall raised $220,000.

As in previous years, the pledges at the dinner included dollar-for-dollar matched funding up to $100,000 from Springboard’s two biggest supporters, Kennards Hire and Northwood Developments Limited.

Springboard general manager Dan Gray says they want to honour the total.

“It was the community wrapping around our mahi and young people like a korowai (woven cloak worn by a Māori chief),” Gray says.

“The meaning of that is we can keep transitioning kids through into employment, we can keep mentoring kids.”

The matched funding from their key stakeholders Kennards Hire and Northwood Developments Limited “was massive and we honour and respect that”.

“We’re thankful for their contribution because of what it does in our community.”Gray says

the dinner was a great night of fundraising and felt like a family coming together.

“This year a few of our supporters, who have been supporters for a long period of time, decided to pull a table together, advocating for what's going on at Springboard, saying, ‘come to this thing we passionately believe in’.

“We also had people who were there for the very first time.”

Springboard founder Gary Diprose spoke at the dinner about the history, as well as the future, of the organisation.

However, the highlight of the evening for many was when the young Springboard speakers took the stage.

“We had two of our students share moving stories of their journey with Springboard and how Springboard had supported them in their life and where they're at now,” Gray says.

“We're a group of people who passionately believe in change, but they're the ones who are brave and we're just getting in behind them.”

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Summer: Open 7 days, 9am-5pm (winter hours vary, check online or get in touch to confirm)

Springboard founder Gary Diprose connecting the community to the history and the future of Springboard.

an experience a destination,

Visit the park, see the Kauri trees, then come into the museum and learn about the history of the area.

Adult $7 • Child $3 (6-16 years)

7093 warkworthmuseum@xtra.co.nz | www.warkworthmuseum.co.nz

Snappers end of year caught on film

Local photography group Mangawhai Snappers wrapped up a busy year with a potluck dinner on December 2.

The evening included a slide presentation featuring members’ images and achievements throughout the year. Club founder Grant Crowe says the slideshow was well received.

“The club’s success has come through workshops, set homework and interesting discussions,” he says. “Whether a person is just starting out or a seasoned photographer, using a cellphone or a digital camera, there is no division or critical analysis. There are so many ways to take and edit photographs.”

Mangawhai Snappers’ achievements were also apparent at the Lions Photography Competition held earlier this year, with eight of the 12 placings taken out by members.

The group’s ages and experience range from teens to seniors and novices to experienced shutterbugs, and new people are always welcome.

“Just bring what you’re using and we’ll start to get to know each other and the equipment,” Grant says. “We have some exciting plans underway to start the new year, including celebrating our third birthday in April.”

In June, the Snappers will hold an exhibition at the Mangawhai Artists Gallery.

“Our last exhibition was very successful and we are looking forward to being there again.”

Mangawhai Snappers first meeting next year will be on Monday, February 3, at 7pm, at Mangawhai Fishing Club. For information, contact Grant or Barbara at mangawhaisnappers@gmail.com

A&P readies for 2025 event

Although next year’s Warkworth A&P Lifestyle Show is still three months away, preparations are already well underway.

The show will be held on March 15 with Wellsford based construction company Wharehine once again confirmed as the principal sponsor.

Other major sponsors who have reaffirmed their support for the show include Auckland Council, Mason Contractors, Mason Containers, Absolute Scaffolding, Northland Waste and Carters Tyre Service.

Warkworth A&P chair Carl King says the show relies on its sponsors and volunteers to keep running year after year.

“There are many ways to get involved,” he says. “We are always keen to recruit new members on our committee, and a whole

team of volunteers is needed on Show Day to help set up. We also have people who participate in the working bees that maintain the grounds.”

King says the Warkworth Agricultural and Pastoral Society, founded in 1867, brings the community together to celebrate farming, animals and rural heritage.

The programme has expanded over the years to include a wide variety of entertainment, from wood chopping and shearing to mounted games and indoor exhibitions.

“For visitors, it’s a chance to experience authentic New Zealand culture, from its farming roots to its modern-day agricultural practices. The show is also a fantastic way to mingle with locals, explore food stalls, and check out tractors, motorbikes, and much more.”

Thank you for all your support during the year and we look forward to seeing you over Christmas.

Snappers members at their Christmas get-together.

Kick starting creativity

Members of Mangawhai’s longest-running artist collective are showcasing their year’s work in a fun exhibition to help kickstart 2025 with a bit of creativity.

The Monday Art Group’s (MAG) new exhibit will open at the Senior Citizens Community Hall on Fagan Place, on January 3 and 4. The show will have a particular focus on the local environment.

MAG member Shirley Emerson says members are presenting their own version of Mangawhai through a range of mixed media, from oils and watercolour paintings to charcoal sketches.

“We also have stunning cards on display,” she says. “The joint works are a culmination of another 12 months of artistic ability and effort, and I’m sure there will be something to suit everyone.”

A regular feature of MAG exhibits is the People’s Choice competition and visitors are

encouraged to vote for their favourite artistic work.

MAG formed more than 40 years ago and the Mangawhai Artist Society was born from the group, with many members holding dual membership. They meet every Monday, offering tuition and advice “to those who ask” and members also have an occasional outings.

“Encouragement is huge and the vibe is friendly and welcoming, a great environment for emerging and more proficient artists and a wonderful place to meet like-minded people,” Shirley says. “The exhibit will make this a pleasant start to the New Year, and I’m sure visitors will be impressed with the variety and value for money.”

Monday Art Group New Year exhibit, Senior Citizens Community Hall, Fagan Place, January 3/4, 10am-4pm. Meetings to recommence on January 13 at Senior Citizens Community Hall, Fagan Place 9.30 am. New members welcome.

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Thriving arts calendar

Art is thriving in Mangawhai over the Christmas/New Year holiday period. Running up to Christmas, the annual cash and carry Christmas exhibition at the Mangawhai Artists Gallery features small works from member artists. Then, on Friday, December 27, Howard Esler, Rebecca Barclay Clist and Ian McGowan (as Pollo McMoth) present their joint exhibition ‘Chance and Change’. Esler has a fascination with found objects. His goal is to give once-useful objects new life and to illustrate, he talks about the ‘centipede’, which forms the ‘Gumboots’ work.

“The body is the cylinder head off a diesel motor that served many years on the road before an honourable retirement in the weeds in the Bay of Plenty,” he says. “Now, with the addition of reinforcing bar legs – building site offcuts that never had a satisfying life –it is a 14-legged beastie! The gumboots are bolts gas-axed off a digger that needed a new drive sprocket before being abandoned in the dirt. With its extraordinary rust patterns, fascinating history and potential to change as it ages, I hope ‘Gumboots’ will give you a chuckle.”

In ‘A Journey Through Symbols and Spirit’, Rebecca Barclay-Clist reflects on six transformative years of painting, weaving together motifs and themes that have shaped her practice. The works create a visual dialogue with the past, reinterpreting familiar ideas while exploring fresh perspectives. The omnipresent human figure, standing alongside text and abstract elements, anchors the work, bridging past explorations with the present and reflecting a desire to reconnect with the tangible.

The creative journey began with a sombre spark ‒ a dark thought ‒ but quickly transformed as Rebecca embraced the power of colour. Vibrancy flooded the works, imbuing them with a sense of hope.

“I realised that colour brought a hopeful feeling,” Rebecca says. “I allowed it to lead me without restraint, in an intuitive and subconscious manner. The rainbow, a recurring symbol, emerges as a beacon of solace in uncertain times. The collection offers a poignant commentary on humanity’s search for meaning in a chaotic world.”

Painting as Pollo McMoth, Ian McGowan’s primary subject is the human condition –in particular, the psychological factors that determine his behaviour as Moth.

“The work ‘Moth’s Incandescent Other’ forms the genesis of my show,” he says. “I am moth, that poor misdirected set of instincts, driven to batter itself to pieces against a light it mistakes for nature. This light, to my mind, as Moth, is so attractive, so apparently divine, and I am in its grip. It’s a love that drives me bats. A love that burns. I paint out of sheer anger, because burning ain’t funny!”

Each work explores a subject from the perspective of Moth – challenging, confronting, questioning and exposing. Visit the gallery and talk to the artists to find out more about the motivation for the diverse and different works on display.

Mangawhai Artists Gallery, 45 Moir Street, Mangawhai, is open daily (except Christmas Day and Boxing Day) from 10.30am to 3.30pm (and from 9am on Saturdays).

Woodys Winners

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We stock a huge range of gifts, cards, home brew supplies, Himalayan salt lamps, magazines, guitar strings, plus much MUCH more!

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From left, Rebecca Barclay-Clist, Howard Esler and Ian McGowan (Pollo McMoth).

29 January 2025 at 1:00pm, 10 Polygon Road, St Heliers (unless sold prior) 3A2B1D1J603F 8 Kakapo Place, Mangawhai

Privately positioned at the end of a petit cul-de-sac, this contemporary home exudes a relaxing atmosphere, mirroring what life should offer in Magical Mangawhai. Fully fenced with a wraparound deck, screens and landscaped tropical planting, this property offers seclusion in the heart of the Village. A resort style sanctuary that will appeal and delight, within walking distance to the village with boutique shops, eateries, and two weekend markets or bike to Mangawhai Central on the new cycle/walkway. A must view!!

rwmangawhai.co.nz/MGW30516

Auction

Shane Romani 021 889 906 shane.romani@raywhite.com

Liz Nichols-Gill 027 334 7058 liz.nichols-gill@raywhite.com

$1,295,000 3A2B2J602F 28B Northcoast Place, Mangawhai Heads FOR SALE

This near new ideal family home or holiday getaway is ready and waiting for you. The spacious open plan kitchen, dining and living area opens out onto an expansive north facing deck, ideal for entertaining and relaxing in the all day sun. 3 generous double bedrooms, 2 with walk in wardrobes, master features an ensuite and opening onto the deck. The large double garage is fully lined, insulated and carpeted. 602sqm section is equipped with a garden shed, parking for the boat and only a few minutes from the boat ramp. rwmangawhai.co.nz/MGW30519

For Sale Kerry Markwick 027 483 6178 kerry.markwick@raywhite.com

McElwain Realty Ltd Licensed (REAA 2008)

McElwain Realty Ltd Licensed (REAA 2008)

139 Mangawhai Heads Road, Mangawhai Heads

Enormous SPACE for all!

A coastal lifestyle on a super generous 2032 sqm, beautifully landscaped, with mature boundary plantings. Gracing the front is an expansive, manicured lawn perfect for kicking a ball or a game of cricket!

• Double garage PLUS 6 x 9 metre separate garage

• Secluded, covered alfresco entertainment area

• A perfect property for a growing family seeking space rwmangawhai.co.nz/MGW30413

203 Cames Road, Mangawhai

For Sale

Stewart McElwain 027 255 5186 stewart.mcelwain@raywhite.com

For Sale BLOCKIES - Digs, Shed & Views! Looking for a shed and a comfortable living space on your lifestyle block? This steel American barn (110 sqm) has Code Compliance Certificate with the 49 sqm one bedroom, bathroom and kitchen, a Certificate of Acceptance and Healthy Homes tick of approval. From the knoll are panoramic views out to the ocean and islands. Your potential to explore and develop further.

$799,000

rwmangawhai.co.nz/MGW30524

Stewart McElwain 027 255 5186 stewart.mcelwain@raywhite.com

Mike Finlayson 021 090 79934 mike.finlayson@raywhite.com

McElwain Realty Ltd Licensed (REAA 2008)

McElwain Realty Ltd Licensed (REAA 2008)

Thelma Road South, Mangawhai Heads

LOW MAINTENANCE EASY LIVING!

• Solid dependable, 188 sqm Brick & Tile

• Spacious living with generous open plan layout

• Entertain on the north-facing deck

• Sprawling, private site - great for kids and/or a pool

• Perfect blend of comfort, space and coastal charm BE QUICK!

rwmangawhai.co.nz/MGW30513

NOSTALGIA, CHARM & SPACE!

• Features circa 1940's era curved walls & high stud

• Oodles of space to play hide & seek

• Native timber flooring adds warmth and tradition

• Generous garden setting yet close to the coastal action

• Huge potential and appeal for a growing family

rwmangawhai.co.nz/MGW30512

McElwain Realty Ltd Licensed (REAA 2008)

365 Oneriri Road, Kaiwaka

For Sale SERENE BUSH SANCTUARY

Motor up the driveway to a surprisingly secluded, and hidden-fromsight oasis, that is seriously for sale! You will be greeted by an abundance of birdlife living in the surrounding gardens and bush. Trilling and flitting through the bushes, and mature exotic and native specimen trees, the living areas of the two-storey, 249 sqm country home look directly into these leafy surroundings. Vendors have purchased, and welcome your offer!

rwmangawhai.co.nz/MGW30500

2103 State Highway 1, Kaiwaka

60's Show Stopper!

$1,123,000

Kaye McElwain 027 215 2016 kaye.mcelwain@raywhite.com

Stewart McElwain 027 255 5186 stewart.mcelwain@raywhite.com

• Generous proportions throughout 1960's, 145 sqm family home

• Real plus is 85 sqm concrete block 3-bay shed with separate drive, whatever your folly, there's room for it here!

• Tiny house (unconsented, has gas, electrical, and plumbing certificates) with bathroom & kitchenette, and is currently rented

• Microclimate is host to many varieties of trees, plants and shrubs

For Sale

$890,000

View by appointment

Kaye McElwain 027 215 2016 kaye.mcelwain@raywhite.com FOR SALE

Stewart McElwain 027 255 5186 stewart.mcelwain@raywhite.com

• Loads on offer with space, gardens, sheds, and Tiny house

rwmangawhai.co.nz/MGW30499

McElwain Realty Ltd Licensed (REAA 2008)

McElwain Realty Ltd Licensed (REAA 2008)

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Open Wednesday to Saturday 10-4, Sunday 10-3 and 7 days over the Christmas holidays.

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Angela Cook, Mangawhai Museum Manager info@mangawhai-museum.org.nz

While under construction, the museum had a distinctly Stonehenge appearance.

Mangawhai’s Stonehenge

A look inside Mangawhai’s distinctive museum never fails to impress – not only for its presentation and storytelling, but for the fact it is there at all. We celebrated the museum’s first decade this month and reflected with gratitude on the way a community worked together to overcome challenges to deliver a substantial project for the long-term benefit of residents and visitors.

From clearing the site where the stingrayshaped building now rests to construction of the building and displays, much of the museum’s work was carried out by volunteers and many materials were donated. Since we opened our doors, the museum has engaged in extensive fundraising and offered a wide range of community events, special exhibitions, education programmes and publications, while nurturing the café’s evolution, shop growth and volunteer community.

The museum building itself was constructed from pre-cast tilt slab concrete walls and was the one of the first buildings in Mangawhai to use this new construction method. While it was still a shell having its foundation pumped

in, many locals jokingly referred to it as “Mangawhai’s very own Stonehenge”. This year Mangawhai’s Stonehenge was brought into the next decade with a fresh lick of stain on her soffits, carpark paint, an influx of teenage volunteers, an EV charger trial, virtual tours on her Google business page, and even a page on TikTok. A book celebrating the 10 year journey went on sale at the celebration last week, documenting the story of the house of stories and is available for purchase in the museum shop.

Learn more about your community museum in the History Group’s book, at our current photography special exhibition, or as a volunteer!

Coming Up at Mangawhai Museum

Late night shopping, December 21, until 8pm

Special Exhibition – 10 years 10 photographs, until February 23

Industry-leading wash and dry speeds Touch screen controls Dedicated ‘petcessories’ machine Easy parking

Locally owned and operated

Museum reaches milestone

Mangawhai Museum commemorated its 10th anniversary on December 6 with an all-day party and the launch of a book chronicling its history.

About 100 visitors took advantage of the free entry and celebrated with live music, face painting and a bottomless birthday cake.

The book ‘The Spirit of Mangawhai – the museum that Mangawhai built’ was compiled by the museum’s History Group and documents the early days of the Historical Society, the new building and the museum’s activities over the last decade. It joins a growing number of local history books available for sale in the gift shop.

“The fundraising team has laboured all year to bring these to us so we had a video showing all their work behind the scenes playing on the TV in the foyer,” museum manager Angela Cook says.

“Every year we also hold a BBQ to celebrate Christmas and the work of our amazing volunteers, so the celebration doubled as a birthday party and Christmas party. I think this is the first year we’ve had so many teenage volunteers attend. Merry Christmas Mangawhai!”

The venue was decked out with Christmas craft and art made by volunteer group Handmade in Mangawhai, including driftwood trees, wooden angels, clay ornaments and gift baskets.

Vatika at Waipu Eatery is a Summer pop-up garden bar in the heart of Waipū. Indulge in bespoke beverages in

oasis.

Mangawhai Museum chair Jill Corkin and manager Angela Cook with the birthday book, The Spirit of Mangawhai, a story of the venue's own history.

Thanks to Barfoot & Thompson real estate agent Aidan Salmon's sponsorship, Magical Moments face painter artist Amanda was able to offer her craft for free to her young visitors.

Musical entertainers ranged from Ian Smail tinkling on the piano to bands Otherwise Fine, Loose Covers, and 4 in a Bar (pictured).

Volunteers enjoyed a double celebration at the annual Christmas barbecue, which was held on the museum’s 10th birthday.

Maritime business brings workshop to boats

With a handy location near the waters of Marsden Cove Marina, vessel services and management business Manaia Marine offers a one-stop maritime shop for local yacht owners, as well as sailors passing by.

Owned by One Tree Point couple Kyle Taylor and Alice Lewis-Sneyd, Manaia Marine specialises in nautical electronic fitting and servicing such as radars, autopilots and sonar fishfinders, with particular expertise in Victron and Raymarine installation.

Manaia Marine also provides regular management services, from exterior detailing with a wash, wax and polish, to regular engine inspections even when the client is out of the country. It can also project manage annual maintenance trips to shipyards including overseeing transportation.

The Manaia Marine crew includes Alice at the helm as a multi-tasking office manager and Kyle, a qualified marine engineer, as well as four mobile technicians and electricians.

The team either work from the Marsden Point base or take the workshop to customers through their mobile service, covering Whangārei, Tutukaka and the Bay of Islands.

“We also utilise other local contractors to complete work,” Alice says. “There are lots of skilled contractors/marine businesses around Marsden Cove and Whangārei and we believe it’s important to build good relationships with others in the industry.”

Born and bred in One Tree Point, the ocean has been a big part of Kyle’s life, from surf lifesaving to dive instructor and as a qualified engineer and skipper, he has had years of experience in the commercial marine industry including onboard superyachts and game fishing boats. The couple met over 10 years ago while working as scuba diving instructors and established the business to accommodate family life.

“After working away for several years, Kyle originally started Manaia Marine as a sole trader as he wanted to be home more,” Alice says. “At the time, we had a nine-month-old so I made a logo, whipped up some business cards and brochures, and we would do a drop around the neighbourhood while walking the dog and our baby in the pram.

“After a few months, things really started to pick up and I don’t think Kyle took a day off that summer!”

After leaving her job in January, Alice joined the team fulltime so they “could go all in” to the business, starting with hiring “some awesome staff”, investing in new equipment and moving into the Marsden Bay Drive workshop.

“Having Manaia Marine allows us to connect with a lot more people in the community, and we’ve met and worked for some great customers locally and internationally.

“We also get to spend a lot of time together,” she says. “It has been a huge challenge and learning curve for both of us on how to run a business and provide the best service and run a team, but we are loving it!”

One Tree Point couple Kyle Taylor and Alice Lewis-Sneyd, owners of Manaia Marine.

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On-site

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On-site water testing and chemical balancing

Regular pool servicing and green pool clean ups

Equipment

Equipment supply, repair and installation

On-site water testing and chemical balancing

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CHRISTMAS SERVICES 2024

Sunday 15 December

THIRD SUNDAY OF ADVENT

Christ the King, Mangawhai Holy Communion 9am St Pauls, Kaiwaka Nine Lessons and

Sunday 22 December

FOURTH SUNDAY OF ADVENT

Christ the King, Mangawhai Holy Communion 9am



www.mangawhaianglican.org.nz Phone 431 4122

On-site



Equipment

St Michael’s and All Angels, Hakaru Nine Lessons and Carols 7pm

Tuesday 24 December

THE EVE AND VIGIL OF CHRISTMAS

Christ the King, Mangawhai Holy Communion 9am

St Pauls, Kaiwaka Nine Lessons and Carols 11pm

Wednesday 25 December

CHRISTMAS DAY

Christ the King, Mangawhai

Christmas Service 9am

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

DAY Family Communion

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

Christ the King Church Mangawhai 9.00 am

St Paul’s, Kaiwaka 9.00 am 

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

Mangawhai Mission District Anglican Church Christmas Services

www.mangawhaianglican.org.nz Phone 431 4122

CHRISTMAS SERVICES 2020

CHRISTMAS EVE St Michael’s, Hakaru Christmas Eve Carol Service Thursday 24 December 7.00 pm

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

Holy Trinity, Maungaturoto Christmas Service 11.30am

Sunday 29 December

FIRST SUNDAY OF CHRISTMAS

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.

Christ the King, Mangawhai Holy Communion 9am

St Mark’s, Paparoa Holy Communion 11.30am

You are all very welcome! Phone 431 4122 www.mangawhaianglican.org.nz

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

RESPITE ELDER CARE

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Let us update or create your Will. Best advice and rates. Frontline Law 09 889 0098 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.

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

Midnight Christmas Communion Christ the King Church Mangawhai Thursday 24 December 11.00 pm

CHRISTMAS DAY Family Communion

Christ the King Church Mangawhai 9.00 am

St Paul’s, Kaiwaka 9.00

CAREGIVERS

We are looking for highly experienced, skilled and compassionate carers to join our team. The Care Agency is based in Mangawhai. We treat caregiving as an important job and career choice. If you are an experienced caregiver, with recent references, and are looking for flexible/casual work in and around Mangawhai, we would like to hear from you. Request the Job Description or email your letter of introduction and CV to: pca@thecareagency.nz

driveways, slabs, paths, patios and excavations. For all your concrete needs. Free quote. Workmanship

NOTICE OF INTENTION FOR TARGETED SPRAYING

PROPOSED TEMPORARY ROAD CLOSURE

SUNDAY 25 FEBRUARY 2024

Pursuant to the Local Government Act 1974, Schedule 10, 11(e), the Kaipara District Council hereby gives notice that Hibiscus Coast Motorsport Club Inc has made an application to have roads within the Kaipara District closed on the day and at the times set out below for the purpose of the HCMC Arcadia Road Rally

Sunday 25 February 2024 from 09:00am until

The entirety of Arcadia Road, Paparoa Any objections to this proposal should be in the hands of the Kaipara District Council no later than 4.00pm Monday 22 January 2024 and will be considered at the

Kaipara District Council

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.

CARPET, VINYL, HARDFLOORING

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.

Supply and install. 100% mobile service. Ph Kaipara Flooring Co 021 515 415. Free quotes.

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. nz/a-z-forms

Open Thursday to Sunday 10am-4pm

art,

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 8am and 5pm Monday to Friday.

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

-

6 The Centre, Waipu, (Behind Lydia Sushi) Phone

Mangawhai

Golfing juniors steal the win

Mangawhai junior golfers have taken out a competition title for the second year in a row, winning in a nail-biting chip-off.

On December 8, Grayson Bunkall, Azariah Lamberton, Gemma Farley, Makayla Johanson – with assistance from Joash Lamberton –won the 2024 Junior Shield Series. Initiated last year by Wellsford Golf Club member Martin Worthington, the comp comprises four teams of four juniors representing their clubs on the greens of Mangawhai, Wellsford, Warkworth and Omaha.

“The Junior Shield was created to give budding junior golfers an opportunity to play a match teams event against each other,” Team Mangawhai’s Mike Howard says. “The competition has seen a really positive development of confidence and skills from many of the 20 to 30 players involved in the tour this year.”

At the end of the final fifth round played at Waipu Golf Club, “our incredible team of four” was tied with players from Omaha and a ‘chip off’ was played.

“It was rather nerve-racking,” Mike says. “Mangawhai’s Gemma Farley chipped to about nine feet on the third attempt for the team. The Omaha number one failed to capitalise, which left a jubilant Mangawhai team the winners.”

Organisers hope the event will expand next year to involve more clubs and potentially two more hubs through Northland.

“It is a brilliant affirmation of just how quickly our young ones can grow in confidence and skills when committed to something that really engages them,“ Mike says. “It’s a fabulous achievement in the short history of our wonderful golf club and certainly the Junior Golf Programme.”

REST ASSURED

Gardening

Andrew Steens

Gardens in Christmas colours

The Christmas holiday season is almost upon us and although I’m relatively cynical about the whole event, I can’t help but get a little carried away, mainly for the joy it brings to other people. For a gardener, what better way to enhance the festive spirit than with beautiful plants that bloom during Christmas time?

The poinsettia (Euphorbia pulcherrima) is perhaps the most iconic Christmas plant. Known for its striking red and green foliage, this plant is native to Mexico and was cultivated by the Aztecs long before it became associated with Christmas. It actually flowers in winter, so in the Southern Hemisphere it must be tricked into flowering by altering the day length using blackout curtains in the greenhouses. If planted outside, it will revert to winter flowering – not such a bad thing, as it forms a very flamboyant flowering shrub in our zone.

On the other hand, amaryllis (Hippeastrum), which is also a favourite Christmas indoor plant in the Northern Hemisphere thanks to its dramatic blooms, is actually forced to flower out of season there. In our region, Hippeastrum are happily flowering outdoors from early November through to the end of January without any trickery involved. With most varieties being shades of white, pink and red, these are perfect for the Kiwi festive season.

Of course, nothing is more evocative of a Kiwi Christmas than our stunning pohutukawa (Metrosideros excelsa). Often though, the flowering is nearly finished by Christmas Day, so just in case, try making a pōhutukawa cordial from the flower stamens.

This delicious and vibrant red cordial is a real treat with soda water, champagne or anything else bubbly on Christmas Day! Just google it, for instructions on how to make it.

For an Aussie tinge, the bottlebrush (Callistemon spp.) is a fantastic choice. This tough Australian shrub features vivid red, lemon, pink, burgundy or even white brushlike flowers that bloom around Christmas time and yes, as a relative of our pohutukawa and you can make cordial from these flowers, too!

Gardenia flowers are a fragrant treat during our Christmas season. Pick the waxy looking, creamy white flowers and pop them into a bud vase to flood your indoor spaces with its intoxicating scent or enjoy the scent outdoors during balmy evenings on the patio. This evergreen shrub thrives in our climate, is ideal as a low hedge, potted plant or specimen in the garden and comes in a range of sizes and forms.

Hydrangeas are another plant that flowers prolifically during the Christmas season. Stunning as a background plant in the garden with their large, mophead blooms that come in shades of pink, blue and white. Hydrangeas are also great cut flowers for spectacular Christmas arrangements.

For a touch of tropical, I love my heliconia schiedeana, which flower prolifically with bright red and yellow bird of paradise type spikes. These last for months in the garden, or a week or two as a cut flower inside. The stems are so long that, if needed, the flower arrangement can be more than 1.5 metres high, big enough for the most spectacular Christmas arrangements.

Kitted out in white shirts, Team Mangawhai’s Junior Shield winners, from top left, siblings Joash and Azariah Lamberton, Gemma Farley (sitting), Grayson Bunkall and Makayla Johanson, with their enthusiastic support group of parents, grandparents and Mangawhai Golf Club’s Mike Howard and Len Bilton.

What’s on ...

December

19 - 22 Santa’s Grotto @ Red Door Gallery Waipu, from 11am

To list events, email: online@localmatters.co.nz

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

25 Mahurangi Community Christmas Lunch, Sunrise Boulevard, Snells Beach, 12 noon. Free food, drink, gifts and activities. Bring chairs, mats and togs. Info/donations: contact Moana on 0210 246 1732

29-31 Northern Bass, Kaiwaka. R18 music festival. Info: https://northernbass.co.nz/

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

31-Jan 2 The Great Summer Art Exhibition, 270 Mahurangi East Road (next to Four Square Snells Beach), 10am-4pm. A Mahurangi East Tennis Club Fundraiser.

January

1 Warkworth Rodeo, Warkworth Showgrounds, 10am. Tickets: Adults $20, Youth $5, Under 5 free. Family pass $50

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

3&4 Monday Morning Art Group Exhibit, Senior Citizens Hall, Fagan Place Mangawhai Heads 10am-4pm. Free entry.

6-8 Circus Kumarani’s free School Holiday Programme, Mangawhai Beach School 10am -2pm. Ages 8-18. Register at www.circuskumarani.co.nz

11 Puhoi Woodchopping, Puhoi Pub, 9am-5.30pm

11&12 Summer Measure Fishing Comp, Waipu Fishing Club. Open category $50 per angler. Fish auction 4pm Sunday.

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

To list a What’s On event, email juliawade@xtra.co.nz. Listings are free.

See www.localmatters.co.nz/whats-on/ for a full list of upcoming events

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OPEN 7 DAYS Mon-Fri 8.30am-5pm, Sat 8.30am-3pm, Sun 8.30am-2pm

At Mangawhai Village Preschool, formerly known as FAME, we are proud to stand out for what truly makes us unique. Our commitment to sustainability, community engagement, creative arts, open communication with families, and a child-led learning approach are at the heart of everything we do.

Here’s a glimpse into how we bring these values to life:

Community Connection: Fresh produce from the garden being donated to the Te whai community trust, fostering a strong bond with the local community.

Learning Beyond the Classroom: Through regular library visits, we show how learning extends beyond our preschool and into the wider community.

Sustainability in Action: In our veggie garden, children garden and produce fresh produce.

Celebrating Creativity: Our school’s display board is adorned with the children’s arts and crafts, showcasing their creativity and hard work.

These activities are just a few of the many ways we embody our values.

Come and visit Mangawhai Village Preschool today to see how we’re making a difference, one child at a time. Enrol now for a bright future!

1D Molesworth Drive, Mangawhai 0505, New Zealand +64 9 945 3976 / admin@mvpreschool.co.nz www.mvpreschool.co.nz

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“Snappers” put best work on show

Photography group Mangawhai Snappers celebrated the end of a busy year with a competition where members had the opportunity to vote for their favourite image from the past 12 months. Given the range of talent and genre, the competition was tough with members inspired to compete for the prestigious prize – a chocolate fish!

Peter Cornes came out on top with his stunning Whangarei Falls image, above, with Baz Clark’s House in Skippers, right, and Graham Rook’s Misty Morning, bottom right, tying for second place.

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.