Back
1398 days ago

Pines Beach residents still waiting on apology for 'Fairy Forest' destruction

Nicole Mathewson Reporter from Northern Outlook

Devastated Pines Beach residents say they’re still waiting on an apology for the destruction of their beloved ‘Fairy Forest.’

The reason the fairy forest, also known to locals as ‘The Shack,’ in North Canterbury was destroyed by a council contractor remains unclear.

A meeting has been scheduled between the Waimakariri District Council and its logging contractor, which has been pinpointed as the culprit.

A council spokesperson said the remediation of the site around the fairy forest continues after the forestry harvest, with remaining debris being cleared from the site by contractors.

“Once this is complete we will be able to visit the site with the Te Kohaka o Tuhaitara Trust and develop a way forward with input from the community,” the spokesperson said.

On Tuesday, Pines Beach resident Jacinta Sutherland said she had yet to receive a response from council to an email she sent on March 15 asking why the forest was destroyed and what would be done to reinstate it.

“Even an update or a phone call would have been well received. I really hope an apology is also on the cards for what has happened to something that was so special to the locals for such a long time."

Image
More messages from your neighbours
22 days ago

Poll: As a customer, what do you think about automation?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

The Press investigates the growing reliance on your unpaid labour.

Automation (or the “unpaid shift”) is often described as efficient ... but it tends to benefit employers more than consumers.

We want to know: What do you think about automation?
Are you for, or against?

Image
As a customer, what do you think about automation?
  • 9.3% For. Self-service is less frustrating and convenient.
    9.3% Complete
  • 43.7% I want to be able to choose.
    43.7% Complete
  • 47.1% Against. I want to deal with people.
    47.1% Complete
2464 votes
25 days ago

Poll: Would you take a 1.5-hour hike for a shop? 🌿🐦

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

Canterbury, you have a hidden treasure right on your doorstep ... though it does come with a 1.5-hour walk up the stunning Rakaia Gorge Walkway.

Along the trail you’ll find The Fantail Shop showcasing small artworks by local artisans. Even better, every purchase supports the Fantail Trust, helping protect and restore biodiversity on the north bank of the gorge.

So we’re curious: would you take a 1.5-hour hike for a shop? (And for local biodiversity, of course 🌿)

Image
Would you take a 1.5-hour hike for a shop? 🌿🐦
  • 32.2% Yes!
    32.2% Complete
  • 67.8% No thank you.
    67.8% Complete
177 votes
C
3 days ago

Musicians Wanted

Clare from Rangiora

‘Rangiora Bells’ is seeking musicians to join the handbell choir. We are a friendly group of handbell ringers who enjoy making music and entertaining at community groups.
If you would like to come and have a go at ringing handbells, please come along to one of our practice sessions. No commitment necessary if you decide that this is not for you.

An ability to read basic music notation preferred.
Practice days – Thursdays 1pm – 2.30pm
(beginning 19th February 2026)
In the lounge at Trinity Methodist Church
176 King Street
Rangiora
Clare Dolheguy
Phone 027 583 7504
claredoll6@gmail.com

Image