1700 days ago

Whangārei residents urged to check their backyards for missing man

Melanie Earley Reporter from Whangārei Leader

Kia ora neighbours, Whangārei residents have been asked to check their backyards as the search for a man missing since Wednesday continues.

Brian Bench, 72, was reported missing to Northland police after last being at an address on Memorial Drive, near Riverside Drive, on Wednesday night.

Northland police said there had been a possible sighting of Bench in the Whangārei CBD area around 7am on Thursday.

“Police continue to be concerned for Brian's welfare and our search effort remains ongoing,” a police spokesperson said.

“We would like to thank those people who have called us so far. We continue to urge anyone who sees Brian to call 111.”

Anyone with information about possible sightings can also contact police on 105, quoting file number 210708/9824.

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More messages from your neighbours
10 days ago

Some Choice News!

Kia pai from Sharing the Good Stuff

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!

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8 hours ago

⛰️ Is Bream Head the ultimate Northland spot?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

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! 👇

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22 hours ago

Get up to $30,000 back* with your new home

Jane Mander Retirement Village

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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