Head along for the 148th Waipu Games
The annual Waipu Highland Games on January 1 will be the 148th time this iconic event has been held.
It draws big crowds to watch the huge behemoths compete for the national heavyweight trophies, hear the Highland pipes and drums and see the best of Scottish dancing.
The public can register for the tug o war and the farmer's walk both challenging heavyweight events. Tartan in the Park is always popular and gives an ideal opportunity for people young and old to dress up in their best Scottish or period gear.
McLeod’s Brewery are one of the main sponsors of the day and will have a bar in the main café on site along with other vendors galore, but feel free to bring a picnic and shelter under the trees while watching all there is to offer.
At lunchtime the massed bands and dancers will play in the main arena and the crowd will accompany the pipes to Flower of Scotland.
A truly fun day of Scottish highlights. Plenty for the children to do. Entry for children is free.
Some Choice News!
DOC is rolling out a new tool to help figure out what to tackle first when it comes to protecting our threatened species and the things putting them at risk.
Why does this matter? As Nikki Macdonald from The Post points out, we’re a country with around 4,400 threatened species. With limited time and funding, conservation has always meant making tough calls about what gets attention first.
For the first time, DOC has put real numbers around what it would take to do everything needed to properly safeguard our unique natural environment. The new BioInvest tool shows the scale of the challenge: 310,177 actions across 28,007 sites.
Now that we can see the full picture, it brings the big question into focus: how much do we, as Kiwis, truly value protecting nature — and what are we prepared to invest to make it happen?
We hope this brings a smile!
⛰️ Is Bream Head the ultimate Northland spot?
According to The Press, the Bream Head Scenic Reserve at Whangārei Heads has it all: the best views, the best forest, and the best adventures.
Do you have a hidden gem that gives Bream Head a run for its money?
We’re on a mission to find Northland's best "Secret Spots" 🤫
We want to hear from you! What is your go-to spot when you want to show off the best of the North to friends or family? 📸
Drop your recommendations (and photos!) in the comments below! 👇
Get up to $30,000 back* with your new home
Sign up to an independent apartment or townhouse at a participating Ryman village by 31 March 2026 and receive a $30,000 credit on settlement or sign up to a serviced apartment and receive a $10,000 credit on settlement*.
Imagine a new smart TV, your next getaway or furniture for your new home. With more money staying in your pocket, it’s yours to spend!
Discover the lifestyle that awaits.
*Participating villages only, Terms and conditions apply.
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