Otaki District news is brought to you by the team at Kāpiti Observer
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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!
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.
Hi neighbours!
At Graham’s Painters we bring 40+ years of experience, a friendly team of over 20+ full-time professionals, and a “get-it-done” attitude to every job big or small.
We specialise in interior/exterior painting, roof painting, house washing, decking, fencing, wallpapering, … View moreHi neighbours!
At Graham’s Painters we bring 40+ years of experience, a friendly team of over 20+ full-time professionals, and a “get-it-done” attitude to every job big or small.
We specialise in interior/exterior painting, roof painting, house washing, decking, fencing, wallpapering, and cedar weatherboards. We’re tidy, punctual, and perfect for busy families, non-DIYers, and retirees.
Discounts available for SuperGold Card holders
Serving all of Wellington, Hutt Valley & up to Plimmerton.
Message us today for a free quote, we’d love to help bring your home to life!
Dead or alive we pay cash for any unwanted cars, Vans, Trucks, 4x4, and Ute's.
Call our free phone 0800 333 314 now for a free appraisal or text to 021 303 903
Locally owned and Operated
Emergency services are attending a house fire on Queen Street in Foxton Beach this morning.
Just after 5am, reports were made that a house was completely on fire.
Police and Fire and Emergency New Zealand are at the scene and will be carrying out an investigation to determine the cause of the… View moreEmergency services are attending a house fire on Queen Street in Foxton Beach this morning.
Just after 5am, reports were made that a house was completely on fire.
Police and Fire and Emergency New Zealand are at the scene and will be carrying out an investigation to determine the cause of the fire.
At this time, two people remain outstanding.
We are working to understand the circumstances and urgently locate the unaccounted people.
Police are on scene with cordons in place around Queen Street, from Andrews Street to Edinburgh Terrace.
Police will be providing reassurance patrols in the town today.
As mince prices rise, shoppers are hunting for bargains - and sometimes the farmer’s market beats the supermarket.
Soggy Bottom Holding owner and butcher Jono Walker sells at the Hamilton and Cambridge farmers’ markets every week.
At the time of writing his $24-a-kilo mince price beats … View moreAs mince prices rise, shoppers are hunting for bargains - and sometimes the farmer’s market beats the supermarket.
Soggy Bottom Holding owner and butcher Jono Walker sells at the Hamilton and Cambridge farmers’ markets every week.
At the time of writing his $24-a-kilo mince price beats two out of three major supermarkets.
Where do you buy your mince? Tell us more in the comments (adding NFP if you don't want your words used in print).
A major global tourism operator is ditching production in Australia and jumping across the Tasman to Hamilton.
Tourism Holdings Limited have announced they are closing its manufacturing factory in Brisbane effective December 19 and are transitioning all production to Action Manufacturing in … View moreA major global tourism operator is ditching production in Australia and jumping across the Tasman to Hamilton.
Tourism Holdings Limited have announced they are closing its manufacturing factory in Brisbane effective December 19 and are transitioning all production to Action Manufacturing in Hamilton, New Zealand.
Police are urgently appealing for sightings of Rowena, 39, reported missing from Christchurch.
She was reported missing to Police on 22 October 2025, and was last seen on 14 August 2025. Rowena hasn’t been in contact with her children and her family are worried for her safety.
Police … View morePolice are urgently appealing for sightings of Rowena, 39, reported missing from Christchurch.
She was reported missing to Police on 22 October 2025, and was last seen on 14 August 2025. Rowena hasn’t been in contact with her children and her family are worried for her safety.
Police investigating her disappearance have identified her as being in Auckland, Tauranga and Christchurch in the recent months prior to her missing person report being made.
If you have seen Rowena, or have any information regarding her whereabouts, please contact us immediately.
You can contact us via 105 either over the phone or online at 105.police.govt.nz, clicking “Update Report” and referencing file number 251022/9026.
Information can also be provided anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.
Police enquiries underway after a person was located deceased following a house fire in New Lynn.
Emergency services were called to a house on Kohekohe Street in New Lynn at 1.23pm on 8 December.
Detective Senior Sergeant Megan Goldie, Waitematā CIB, says a scene guard was put in place at … View morePolice enquiries underway after a person was located deceased following a house fire in New Lynn.
Emergency services were called to a house on Kohekohe Street in New Lynn at 1.23pm on 8 December.
Detective Senior Sergeant Megan Goldie, Waitematā CIB, says a scene guard was put in place at the property overnight.
“The cause of fire remains undetermined at this very early stage,” she says. “A post-mortem examination is due to get underway this morning and results of this will need to be considered alongside our other enquiries underway.”
Police will be carrying out a scene examination at the house today, including working with fire investigators.
Anyone who might have information to assist enquiries can update Police online now or call 105 using the reference number 251208/6378.
Kapiti Police are wanting to speak to members of the public who witnessed dangerous driving in Paraparaumu Beach on Saturday afternoon.
At around 1.45pm a red Mitsubishi Lancer drove in a dangerous manner through the intersection of Kapiti Road and Hurley Road.
Police are wanting to speak to … View moreKapiti Police are wanting to speak to members of the public who witnessed dangerous driving in Paraparaumu Beach on Saturday afternoon.
At around 1.45pm a red Mitsubishi Lancer drove in a dangerous manner through the intersection of Kapiti Road and Hurley Road.
Police are wanting to speak to anyone who witnessed the vehicle driving in a dangerous manner, particularly the driver of a white Ute with a canopy on top.
If you have any information on the incident, please contact Police on 105 and use reference number 251207/1012.
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.
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!
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? 🤔
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.
Ancient Northern Rata: Ratanui refers to both a significant, ancient giant northern rata tree and a nearby lifestyle property in the rural area of Kai Iwi, near Whanganui, adjacent to the renowned Bushy Park Sanctuary.
The New Zealand College of Chinese Medicine (NZCCM) offers industry-focused Massage and English programmes that prepare students for professional practice.
Students gain strong Anatomy and Physiology knowledge, hands-on experience in the student clinic, and pathways into health and wellbeing … View moreThe New Zealand College of Chinese Medicine (NZCCM) offers industry-focused Massage and English programmes that prepare students for professional practice.
Students gain strong Anatomy and Physiology knowledge, hands-on experience in the student clinic, and pathways into health and wellbeing careers. NZCCM actively incorporates tikanga Māori and Te Ao Māori, partnering with local marae for cultural learning and community treatments.
As Auckland’s only provider of Massage diplomas, NZCCM is enrolling now for February 2026 Programmes include the Level 5 Wellness and Relaxation Massage Diploma and the Level 6 Remedial Massage Diploma, both NZQA-approved with intensive block courses. NZCCM also offers NZCEL Level 4 for academic English preparation.
Open Days will be held on 12 December and 23 January.
Contact: 09 580 2376 or auck@chinesemedicine.ac.nz
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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!
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.
From late November 2025 to February 2026 there will be roadworks on Great South Road near SH1 Bombay interchange.
Works will include weigh plate and electronic sign installation at separate locations as part of the Commercial Vehicle Safety Programme.
Find out how it will affect your … View moreFrom late November 2025 to February 2026 there will be roadworks on Great South Road near SH1 Bombay interchange.
Works will include weigh plate and electronic sign installation at separate locations as part of the Commercial Vehicle Safety Programme.
Find out how it will affect your journey through the area.
Section is clear, flat contoured and rectangular with street frontage in an established neighbourhood. All services ready to hook up. Build your dwelling, relocate a house or land bank for future. Enquiries or further information please call: Simon 022 134 1009 or P.M. me. Thank you.
At Waterford, life feels wonderfully effortless. Enjoy modern apartment living, peaceful harbour views and a warm, welcoming community. With cafés, boardwalks and the ferry close by, everything you love is within easy reach. Discover a lifestyle that brings calm, connection and a real sense of … View moreAt Waterford, life feels wonderfully effortless. Enjoy modern apartment living, peaceful harbour views and a warm, welcoming community. With cafés, boardwalks and the ferry close by, everything you love is within easy reach. Discover a lifestyle that brings calm, connection and a real sense of home.
Hi everyone! I’m a university student currently on my trimester break. If you’ve got outdoor jobs you’ve been putting off, I’m here to help! I will bring all tools required.
With a few years of labouring experience now, I can guarantee quality results.
🔥 Firewood stacking & … View moreHi everyone! I’m a university student currently on my trimester break. If you’ve got outdoor jobs you’ve been putting off, I’m here to help! I will bring all tools required.
With a few years of labouring experience now, I can guarantee quality results.
🔥 Firewood stacking & splitting
🌿 Garden tidying & green waste removal
🧹 Gutter cleaning & leaf clearing
🚚 Moving jobs
🛠️ Renovations or maintenance
🧼 Mossy path or driveway sweeping
✅ Fast, tidy, and hard-working
✅ Based on the Kapiti Coast – happy to travel locally
✅ Affordable rates – just message me for a quick quote.
✅ Ideal for seniors, busy families, or anyone who doesn’t want to deal with the cold!
Feel free to flick me a message here or comment below and I’ll get back to you. Thanks!
Johnathan Warner
Mobile: 0226814989
Email: johnathan.g.warner123@gmail.com
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.
WHEN:-
Sunday 14 December - 10am - 1pm
LOCATION:-
Waikanae Beach Community Hall
22 Rauparaha Street,
Waikanae Beach
… View moreWHEN:-
Sunday 14 December - 10am - 1pm
LOCATION:-
Waikanae Beach Community Hall
22 Rauparaha Street,
Waikanae Beach
FUN FOR THE KIDS:-
Guess who's making an appearance at around 11am? He'll be flying out again around 12ish so make sure you take a photo of the kids with him! He may even have a few Christmas treats in his sack!
DISCOVER UNIQUE AND QUALITY ITEMS:-
With Christmas just around the corner, this is a great opportunity to do your Christmas shopping at the market where you'll find a huge variety of high-quality, reasonably priced Christmas gift ideas. You'll discover handmade treasures and local creativity by highly talented stallholders where every piece tells a story.
GIFTS FOR THE KIDS:-
Meet local author Mik Peryer (the "Waikanae Birdman") and view his many children's adventure books along with Jane and her handmade crochet toys, along with Helen and her huge range of awesome handmade children's dress ups and dolls clothes etc.
MEET UP WITH YOUR FRIENDS AND FAMILY:-
Meet up with family and friends and enjoy a Sunday outing with a visit to this great, friendly community market.
Don't miss it... support local!
A local landlord in Riccarton https ://www.enviroflo.co.nz/ |booked what was meant to be a simple, routine CCTV drain check, | just a bit of peace of mind for a tidy, well-kept rental. But under that neat garden and solid paths, our camera told a different story…
We found several cracks and … View moreA local landlord in Riccarton https ://www.enviroflo.co.nz/ |booked what was meant to be a simple, routine CCTV drain check, | just a bit of peace of mind for a tidy, well-kept rental. But under that neat garden and solid paths, our camera told a different story…
We found several cracks and offsets in the old ceramic drain lines, likely hidden damage from the 2010–2011 quakes. Nothing too dramatic yet, but it was only a matter of time before things got messy.
Luckily, the property still had an EQC (now Natural Hazards Commission) claim on record. Our team stepped in to help the owner with the process, and before long, the repairs were fully approved and sorted at no extra cost to them.
We replaced the damaged sections, tidied everything up, and left both the tenant and landlord relieved they’d caught the problem early.
Moral of the story: sometimes a “routine check” can save you a lot of stress (and cash) down the line!
Have you claimed your free drain check with Enviroflo yet?
At The Helier, retirement feels like a fresh beginning. Light-filled modern apartments, thoughtfully designed spaces and a warm, welcoming community create a place where you can live well and stay connected. Enjoy a lifestyle that feels easy, uplifting and entirely your own, right in the heart of … View moreAt The Helier, retirement feels like a fresh beginning. Light-filled modern apartments, thoughtfully designed spaces and a warm, welcoming community create a place where you can live well and stay connected. Enjoy a lifestyle that feels easy, uplifting and entirely your own, right in the heart of the Bays.
"Yesterday, upon the stair,
I met a man who wasn't there.
He wasn't there again today.
I think he's from the CIA."
ANNON [with apologies to William Hughes Mearns]
Cheers - Mike
Awatere is a vibrant, modern village where friendships are easy and everyday living feels inspired. Enjoy beautifully designed apartments, spaces to gather, and a community that supports doing more of what you love. From social clubs to quiet moments, it’s all here when you want it.
Weather is looking good for Tuesday so make the most of it by coming down and supporting the stallholders at the Mahara Place mid-week MARKET which is on Tuesday from 9.30am until midday near the library in Waikanae. Christmas Gift Ideas, Fresh Fruit & Veg, Yummy Local Waikanae Honey, Bees … View moreWeather is looking good for Tuesday so make the most of it by coming down and supporting the stallholders at the Mahara Place mid-week MARKET which is on Tuesday from 9.30am until midday near the library in Waikanae. Christmas Gift Ideas, Fresh Fruit & Veg, Yummy Local Waikanae Honey, Bees Wax, Plants, Seedlings & Fresh Flowers, Sewing Crafts, Art & Cards, Rawleighs products, Clothing, Good quality Bric-a-Brac, Records, Books, and lots lots more. Grab a coffee, visit the market and the local shops- See you there...SUPPORT LOCAL
With Christmas fast approaching and trees beginning to twinkle in homes across New Zealand, we’re on the hunt for NZ’s Most Loved Christmas Tree!
Whether it’s bursting with colour, elegantly minimal, or filled with sentimental touches from years past, we want to see how Kiwis are spreading… View moreWith Christmas fast approaching and trees beginning to twinkle in homes across New Zealand, we’re on the hunt for NZ’s Most Loved Christmas Tree!
Whether it’s bursting with colour, elegantly minimal, or filled with sentimental touches from years past, we want to see how Kiwis are spreading Christmas magic this season.
And now for the showstopper... 🌟
One tree will rise above them all, capturing the most public votes and the title of NZ’s Most Loved Christmas Tree 2025, along with the iPhone 17 Pro in Cosmic Orange, this year’s ultimate Christmas prize. 🎁🎄
To spread the cheer even further, four lucky trees will be chosen as Santa’s Lucky Trees, each receiving a $200 Space General Gift Voucher, the perfect way to add extra sparkle this season. 🎅🎁
Need a tree first? Explore our beautiful range here and start your Christmas magic!
📅 Public voting opens: 10 November 2025
⏳ Entries close: 17 December 2025
🎄 Winners unwrapped before Christmas — so strike a pose and share your festive masterpiece!
Good Morgan persons, has any peoples builders mix they no longer need.? Contact 027 231 9206.
The plasma in your blood can help treat over 50 different illnesses including cancer, kidney disease and severe burns, and make up to 11 lifesaving products. But demand is outpacing the supply. Luckily there’s a new place to donate plasma. NZ Blood’s new donor centre at 65 Constellation Drive … View moreThe plasma in your blood can help treat over 50 different illnesses including cancer, kidney disease and severe burns, and make up to 11 lifesaving products. But demand is outpacing the supply. Luckily there’s a new place to donate plasma. 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/plasma, download the NZ Blood App or call 0800 448 325
Still a few places available for this Thursday’s “Van Gogh and Vino” (11th 7pm to 9pm) session at the Hall fundraiser. More sessions available the following week,
Thursday 18th , Friday 19th, Sunday 21st, Monday 22nd. All at the Hall 7-9pm.
Don’t miss out on this fun and relaxing … View moreStill a few places available for this Thursday’s “Van Gogh and Vino” (11th 7pm to 9pm) session at the Hall fundraiser. More sessions available the following week,
Thursday 18th , Friday 19th, Sunday 21st, Monday 22nd. All at the Hall 7-9pm.
Don’t miss out on this fun and relaxing creative experience to end the year on!
See you there!
Scan the QR code or PM message for further details to secure a place!
Bookings also through www.tehorohall.org.nz...
At The Bayview, stunning views and relaxed, resort-style living set the tone for every day. Light-filled apartments, friendly neighbours and quality amenities create a lifestyle that feels uplifting and beautifully easy. Make the most of Tauranga’s sunshine in a place designed for comfort and … View moreAt The Bayview, stunning views and relaxed, resort-style living set the tone for every day. Light-filled apartments, friendly neighbours and quality amenities create a lifestyle that feels uplifting and beautifully easy. Make the most of Tauranga’s sunshine in a place designed for comfort and connection.
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