Rural West Whangarei news is brought to you by the team at Whangārei Leader
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There’s growing debate about whether New Zealand’s extended Christmas break (and the slowdown that comes with it) affects productivity.
Tracy Watkins has weighed in ... now it’s your turn. What’s your take? 🤔
Care, Community, And Connection
Acacia Cove, a country-style village situated on the beautiful Wattle Downs Peninsula has 31 weekly activities.
For those who appreciate the tranquility of an estuary setting Acacia Cove has it all, as well as its own restaurant, heated indoor pool, library, … View moreCare, Community, And Connection
Acacia Cove, a country-style village situated on the beautiful Wattle Downs Peninsula has 31 weekly activities.
For those who appreciate the tranquility of an estuary setting Acacia Cove has it all, as well as its own restaurant, heated indoor pool, library, bowling green and gym.
Whether you choose to live in a villa or one of our luxurious apartments, you’ll have the security of a 24 hour, fully monitored emergency call system built in.
If you’re aged 60 or over, value your independence but want greater security, come and have a look at the superb properties we have to offer.
Contact long time manager Bruce to book a visit today!
Care, Community, And Connection
Acacia Cove, a country-style village situated on the beautiful Wattle Downs Peninsula has 31 weekly activities.
For those who appreciate the tranquility of an estuary setting Acacia Cove has it all, as well as its own restaurant, heated indoor pool, library, … View moreCare, Community, And Connection
Acacia Cove, a country-style village situated on the beautiful Wattle Downs Peninsula has 31 weekly activities.
For those who appreciate the tranquility of an estuary setting Acacia Cove has it all, as well as its own restaurant, heated indoor pool, library, bowling green and gym.
Whether you choose to live in a villa or one of our luxurious apartments, you’ll have the security of a 24 hour, fully monitored emergency call system built in.
If you’re aged 60 or over, value your independence but want greater security, come and have a look at the superb properties we have to offer.
Contact long time manager Bruce to book a visit today!
From 7 to 18 December, there will be night-time closures on SH1 between Hampton Downs and Rangiriri (Sundays to Thursdays, 9pm to 5am) to carry out wire rope barrier maintenance. Please expect delays when travelling through this area.
Many New Zealand gardens aren’t seeing as many monarch butterflies fluttering around their swan plants and flower beds these days — the hungry Asian paper wasp has been taking its toll.
Thanks to people like Alan Baldick, who’s made it his mission to protect the monarch, his neighbours … View moreMany New Zealand gardens aren’t seeing as many monarch butterflies fluttering around their swan plants and flower beds these days — the hungry Asian paper wasp has been taking its toll.
Thanks to people like Alan Baldick, who’s made it his mission to protect the monarch, his neighbours still get to enjoy these beautiful butterflies in their own backyards.
Thinking about planting something to invite more butterflies, bees, and birds into your garden?
Thanks for your mahi, Alan! We hope this brings a smile!
How many balls of string does it take to reach the moon?
(Peter from Carterton kindly provided this head-scratcher ... thanks, Peter!)
Do you think you know the answer? Simply 'Like' this post and we'll post the answer in the comments below at 2pm on the day!
Want to stop … View moreHow many balls of string does it take to reach the moon?
(Peter from Carterton kindly provided this head-scratcher ... thanks, Peter!)
Do you think you know the answer? Simply 'Like' this post and we'll post the answer in the comments below at 2pm on the day!
Want to stop seeing these in your newsfeed? No worries! Simply head here and click once on the Following button.
At Triton Hearing Kapiti, you’ll find us on Amohia Street in a spacious, welcoming clinic with easy flat-access parking. Our friendly team supports the Kapiti community, providing expert care in a relaxed, lounge-style environment.
From routine hearing checks to advanced solutions, we ensure … View moreAt Triton Hearing Kapiti, you’ll find us on Amohia Street in a spacious, welcoming clinic with easy flat-access parking. Our friendly team supports the Kapiti community, providing expert care in a relaxed, lounge-style environment.
From routine hearing checks to advanced solutions, we ensure every visit is simple and personalised. We love seeing clients reconnect with the sounds and moments they’ve been missing, whether it’s a loved one’s voice, music, or everyday life. Family-friendly and community focused, our Kapiti clinic makes hearing easy and enjoyable for everyone.
Police are reminding people to keep their homes secure during the summer months.
Inspector Glenda Barnaby, Christchurch Area Prevention manager, says daytime burglaries are just as common as nightime burglaries.
“Burglaries can be committed at any time of the day, and coming into warmer … View morePolice are reminding people to keep their homes secure during the summer months.
Inspector Glenda Barnaby, Christchurch Area Prevention manager, says daytime burglaries are just as common as nightime burglaries.
“Burglaries can be committed at any time of the day, and coming into warmer months there is more opportunity for thieves."
"Although a majority of burglaries involve forced entry through windows and doors, we are starting to see more incidents at insecure premises. Police deal with cases where burglaries are committed in broad daylight, sometimes even while the victim is at home. Good weather means open doors and windows, which makes homes more vulnerable to burglars.”
Inspector Barnaby says there’s a few things people can do to reduce their changes of a burglary being committed.
⚠️ If you’re going outside for gardening, relaxing in the sun, or working in the garage, take a moment to lock your doors and secure your windows first.
⚠️ Do the same at night when you go to bed - keep your doors and windows secure and close your curtains. Fitting window stays means you can get a breeze coming through, while keeping your windows secure.
⚠️ Get to know your neighbours - let them know if you’re going away and look out for one another.”
If you see any suspicious activity, people or vehicles in your neighbourhood, don't hesitate to contact Police.
If you witness or suspect any illegal activity, please call 111 if it is happening now, or make a report through 105 either online or over the phone, if it is after the fact.
You’ve had the perfect gift all along. Book your blood or plasma donation today.
The First Light Property Fund Limited provides wholesale investors with exposure to six premium industrial and commercial assets located across Auckland and Hamilton.
As a tax efficient PIE-structured vehicle, … View moreThe First Light Property Fund Limited provides wholesale investors with exposure to six premium industrial and commercial assets located across Auckland and Hamilton.
As a tax efficient PIE-structured vehicle, the Fund is designed to deliver stable monthly returns and long-term capital appreciation. All of the commercial assets in the portfolio are NABERSNZ-accredited, enabling access to ESG-linked lending benefits.
This is an opportunity to invest in an established and high-performing commercial property Fund and participate in collective ownership alongside other experienced investors.
Police are working to locate Tehau Ernest Creeks-McNiff, who has a warrant for his arrest and is wanted by Police.
Creeks-McNiff, 19, is wanted in relation to a number of vehicle-related offences and is known to frequent the wider Northland region.
It’s believed he is actively avoiding … View morePolice are working to locate Tehau Ernest Creeks-McNiff, who has a warrant for his arrest and is wanted by Police.
Creeks-McNiff, 19, is wanted in relation to a number of vehicle-related offences and is known to frequent the wider Northland region.
It’s believed he is actively avoiding Police.
If you have seen him or have any information that may assist in locating him, please update us online now or call 105.
Please use the reference number 251008/0746.
Alternatively information can be provided anonymously to Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.
0800 ROOF PAINTERS
Protect & Beautify Your Roof
Locally owned and family-run since 1986, 0800 Roof Painters are trusted experts in roof coatings. We specialise in all roof types - concrete, decramastic, Coloursteel, and clay and are Senior Applicators of Procoat Professional Roof Coatings,… View more0800 ROOF PAINTERS
Protect & Beautify Your Roof
Locally owned and family-run since 1986, 0800 Roof Painters are trusted experts in roof coatings. We specialise in all roof types - concrete, decramastic, Coloursteel, and clay and are Senior Applicators of Procoat Professional Roof Coatings, offering 10–15 year guarantees.
✔ Roof Maintenance
✔ Moss & Mould Treatment
✔ Pressure Cleaning
✔ Texturing & Spraying
✔ No Hidden Costs
We use advanced equipment for quality results and minimal downtime. Friendly service, honest pricing, and proven experience you can rely on.
Call 0800 ROOF PAINTERS today for a FREE quote!
Email; info@roofpainters.co.nz
Website: www.roofpainters.co.nz
Auckland-wide service you can trust.
Please note that the Northland Justices of the Peace Association's Service Desks in the Whangarei urban area will be closed from 12.00 noon on Wednesday 24 December and will reopen again the week commencing Monday 5 January 2026.
The attached document shows our Whangarei Service Desk … View morePlease note that the Northland Justices of the Peace Association's Service Desks in the Whangarei urban area will be closed from 12.00 noon on Wednesday 24 December and will reopen again the week commencing Monday 5 January 2026.
The attached document shows our Whangarei Service Desk venues and hours as from 5 January 2026.
Our other Service desks' Christmas / New Year hours are as follows:
Kaiwaka: Closed from 6pm 22 December and reopening 4 pm 5 January 2026;
Dargaville: Open 11 / 18 December for the usual hours at Dargaville Library (note change of venue) and reopening 8 January 2026, back at Whanau Focus;
Mangawhai: Closed from 12 noon 20 December and reopening 10 January 2026 at 10 am;
Ruakaka: Closed from 12 noon 20 December and reopening 10 January 2026 at 10 am.
If you urgently need a JP over this period, please go to www.justiceofthepeace.org.nz... and use the "Find a JP" button to find the closest JP to you.
Best wishes to all for a safe and happy festive season.
As 2025 comes to a close, all of us at Dyverse Dentures want to say a heartfelt thank you to our amazing customers and community.
Your trust, support, and smiles have made this year so special and we feel truly honoured to be your local denture specialists here in Māngere.
Whether you came … View moreAs 2025 comes to a close, all of us at Dyverse Dentures want to say a heartfelt thank you to our amazing customers and community.
Your trust, support, and smiles have made this year so special and we feel truly honoured to be your local denture specialists here in Māngere.
Whether you came in for a consultation, a repair, or a full set of new dentures – thank you for choosing us.
We’re proud to support our community with compassionate care and quality service, and we look forward to continuing that in the year ahead.
Wishing you a joyful and relaxing holiday season!
– From Rattana, Ethan, and the team at Dyverse Dentures
12C Waddon Place, Māngere
(09) 634-4543
Garden Chair handcrafted in Eucalyptus. Finished in marine grade resin for full weather proofing and long life.
027 840 4499
Imagine waking up somewhere that feels like home - not just a house, but a community. Kandahar Village offers just that, with modern villas, leafy surroundings and the calm pace Masterton is loved for. Host family and friends, or simply relax knowing you’re part of something special.
Prices … View moreImagine waking up somewhere that feels like home - not just a house, but a community. Kandahar Village offers just that, with modern villas, leafy surroundings and the calm pace Masterton is loved for. Host family and friends, or simply relax knowing you’re part of something special.
Prices start at $650k, and for those who move in soon, there’s even a 12-month monthly fee holiday plus a $20,000 cash-back on settlement (for those who sign up before end of February 2026)
Pop by, say hello, and see if life here feels right for you.
Crafted from Tasmanian Blackwood with a green resin insert resembling Jade with highlights that sparkle in the light. 1200 x 600mm
Quality High end hard wax finish.
This is an unusual and very unique piece. Timeless quality that will still appeal to your grandchildren.
Free delivery between … View moreCrafted from Tasmanian Blackwood with a green resin insert resembling Jade with highlights that sparkle in the light. 1200 x 600mm
Quality High end hard wax finish.
This is an unusual and very unique piece. Timeless quality that will still appeal to your grandchildren.
Free delivery between Whangarei and Kaitaia
027 840 4499
We’re gathering the community’s very best festive tips, to-dos, and treasured traditions all in one cheerful place!
🎄 Got a shortcut that saves your sanity?
🎄 A recipe that must make an appearance every year?
🎄 Or a clever idea that makes the holidays smoother, warmer, or a … View moreWe’re gathering the community’s very best festive tips, to-dos, and treasured traditions all in one cheerful place!
🎄 Got a shortcut that saves your sanity?
🎄 A recipe that must make an appearance every year?
🎄 Or a clever idea that makes the holidays smoother, warmer, or a whole lot more magical?
🎄 Got a time-saving holiday hack?
🎄 A tradition that fills your home with cheer?
🎄 Or a crafty idea that turns simple moments into magical memories?
Share your festive wisdom with your neighbours and help make this season brighter for everyone!
Join us this Wednesday and explore our lifestyle, show homes and amenities.
More than just a place to live, Ryman villages are places where friendships grow, hobbies flourish and a genuine sense of community thrives.
The best way is to experience it for yourself. No appointment necessary!
There’s something lovely about a village where faces become familiar and conversations come easily. Kandahar Village is intimate, friendly and just the right size to feel personal - a place where everyone looks out for one another.
Villas are priced from $650k with a 12-month monthly fee … View moreThere’s something lovely about a village where faces become familiar and conversations come easily. Kandahar Village is intimate, friendly and just the right size to feel personal - a place where everyone looks out for one another.
Villas are priced from $650k with a 12-month monthly fee holiday and a $20,000 cash-back on settlement available to new residents who sign before 28 February 2026
You’re warmly invited to visit and picture yourself living here.
The Environmental Protection Authority announced this week that a proposed mine in Central Otago (near Cromwell) is about to enter its fast-track assessment process. A final decision could come within six months, and if it’s approved, construction might start as early as mid-2026.
We want to … View moreThe Environmental Protection Authority announced this week that a proposed mine in Central Otago (near Cromwell) is about to enter its fast-track assessment process. A final decision could come within six months, and if it’s approved, construction might start as early as mid-2026.
We want to know: Should mining projects like this move ahead?
Keen to dig deeper? Mike White has the scoop.
There’s something lovely about a village where faces become familiar and conversations come easily. Kandahar Village is intimate, friendly and just the right size to feel personal - a place where everyone looks out for one another.
Villas are priced from $650k with a 12-month monthly fee … View moreThere’s something lovely about a village where faces become familiar and conversations come easily. Kandahar Village is intimate, friendly and just the right size to feel personal - a place where everyone looks out for one another.
Villas are priced from $650k with a 12-month monthly fee holiday and a $20,000 cash-back on settlement available to new residents who sign before 28 February 2026
You’re warmly invited to visit and picture yourself living here.
Senior business reporter Rob Stock tackles a big question many of us have wondered about: “What are the pros and cons of cutting back on insurance?”
So we’re curious… What are your thoughts on trimming your insurance cover? Have you ever considered it?
Want to dive deeper? Rob Stock … View moreSenior business reporter Rob Stock tackles a big question many of us have wondered about: “What are the pros and cons of cutting back on insurance?”
So we’re curious… What are your thoughts on trimming your insurance cover? Have you ever considered it?
Want to dive deeper? Rob Stock has the full breakdown.
NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi is carrying out essential maintenance on the Auckland Harbour Bridge this December and January. The southbound clip-on lanes will be closed (24/7) from 26 December to 5 January for road resurfacing. Night-time lane restrictions will be in place throughout the summer… View moreNZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi is carrying out essential maintenance on the Auckland Harbour Bridge this December and January. The southbound clip-on lanes will be closed (24/7) from 26 December to 5 January for road resurfacing. Night-time lane restrictions will be in place throughout the summer for recoating work on the bridge. Traffic will still be able to travel in both directions at all times.
When tourists take over the streets and parking disappears, where do you find your calm?
Or is summer’s hustle something to enjoy rather than escape?
Every single blood donation you give can save 3 lives. Blood is needed to help over 29,000 New Zealanders every year. Now there’s a new place you can go to donate blood and help people who need it. NZ Blood’s new donor centre at 65 Constellation Drive on Auckland’s North Shore is now open.
… View moreEvery single blood donation you give can save 3 lives. Blood is needed to help over 29,000 New Zealanders every year. Now there’s a new place you can go to donate blood and help people who need it. NZ Blood’s new donor centre at 65 Constellation Drive on Auckland’s North Shore is now open.
Book now to donate at nzblood.co.nz, download the NZ Blood App or call 0800 448 325.
As Christmas gift shopping moves increasingly online, scammers are ramping up their activity across the country.
Dunedin’s Investigation Support Unit is seeing more and more people fall victim to scams and other fraudulent activity, particularly on Facebook Marketplace.
There are a few ways… View moreAs Christmas gift shopping moves increasingly online, scammers are ramping up their activity across the country.
Dunedin’s Investigation Support Unit is seeing more and more people fall victim to scams and other fraudulent activity, particularly on Facebook Marketplace.
There are a few ways to avoid the scams and keep yourself safe doing online trades this holiday season, says Southern District Service Delivery Manager Senior Sergeant Dalton.
🔒 “A good first step when looking to purchase something on Marketplace is to check when the seller’s Facebook profile was created. If it’s very recent, there is a higher risk that they have just created this account for a one-off fake item.”
🔒 Another important step is to make sure the seller’s profile name and bank account name match up. “We’re seeing a lot of scammers claiming their bank account name is different because it belongs to their partner or family member - that’s a huge red flag."
🔒 “When you’re selling, never trust a screenshot anyone sends you showing that payment has been made. Check your own bank account to make sure a payment has gone through."
🔒 “Quite frankly, it’s best for all parties to agree to pay, or be paid, for items in cash and in-person. Ideally in a public place with CCTV coverage."
🔒 "If you’re buying a car, check Carjam.co.nz to see if it’s stolen or if there’s money owed on it.”
A reminder: Suspicious activity can be reported on 105
Wednesday 10 December, 10am - 3pm
Join us this Wednesday and explore our lifestyle, show homes and amenities.
More than just a place to live, Ryman villages are places where friendships grow, hobbies flourish and a genuine sense of community thrives.
The best way is to experience it for … View moreWednesday 10 December, 10am - 3pm
Join us this Wednesday and explore our lifestyle, show homes and amenities.
More than just a place to live, Ryman villages are places where friendships grow, hobbies flourish and a genuine sense of community thrives.
The best way is to experience it for yourself. No appointment necessary!
We’ve pulled together a few clever Christmas hacks thanks to Ryman resident, Sullen - simple ideas to save time and stress so you can enjoy more of the festive fun.
A few favourites:
- Hang tree lights vertically for an even glow
- Use reusable gift bags for quick, eco-friendly wrapping
- … View moreWe’ve pulled together a few clever Christmas hacks thanks to Ryman resident, Sullen - simple ideas to save time and stress so you can enjoy more of the festive fun.
A few favourites:
- Hang tree lights vertically for an even glow
- Use reusable gift bags for quick, eco-friendly wrapping
- Prep food ahead to keep Christmas Day relaxed
Click read more for the full list of tips.
From 7 to 18 December, there will be night-time closures on SH1 between Hampton Downs and Rangiriri (Sundays to Thursdays, 9pm to 5am) to carry out wire rope barrier maintenance. Please expect delays when travelling through this area.
We have dealt a lot with cost-of-living issues this year.
Christmas shopping and catering for family & summertime visitors, can put a lot of strain on your family budget.
Check out this link to help you get through all the Christmas chaos - "How do I keep debts from getting out… View moreWe have dealt a lot with cost-of-living issues this year.
Christmas shopping and catering for family & summertime visitors, can put a lot of strain on your family budget.
Check out this link to help you get through all the Christmas chaos - "How do I keep debts from getting out of control" - www.cab.org.nz....
Our volunteers are here to help. Give us a call on 09 407 9829 or 0800 367 222 or email farnorth@cab.org.nz. Pop in and see us at 6 Cobham Road, Procter Library Building, Kerikeri.
We are open Monday to Thursday 9.30 a.m. to 3.30 p.m. and Friday 9.30 a.m. to 12.30 p.m.
From 23 November to 17 December, stop/go traffic management will be in several locations on SH16 between Mabbett Lane and Restall Road (Sundays to Thursdays, 9pm to 5am).
Works will include chipsealing and stormwater improvements. There may be delays to your journey when travelling through the … View moreFrom 23 November to 17 December, stop/go traffic management will be in several locations on SH16 between Mabbett Lane and Restall Road (Sundays to Thursdays, 9pm to 5am).
Works will include chipsealing and stormwater improvements. There may be delays to your journey when travelling through the area. Click to find out more.
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