Consultation begins on Airport Location study
We are seeking public opinion about the future of air transport in the Whangārei District.
We need to plan ahead and be ready for change in the air transport sector. Aircraft types and sizes may change in future, or Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) rules may change. Either of these could require the airport to shift from Onerahi, potentially some time in the 2030's.
The existing airport at Onerahi has a relatively short runway with smaller than usual safety areas at each end. We have looked at extending the safety margins, but problems with this option mean we must also consider new potential sites elsewhere in our District. We have permission from the CAA to continue using the existing Onerahi airport for the time being, giving us time to examine potential new sites.
We have identified three potential new sites: Ruatangata West, Ruatangata and One Tree Point West. From initial investigations these potential sites all appear to meet the required criteria including enough clear flat land for a runway, clear airspace at either end (ie no mountains or hills), land for the operational area a new airport would require, and relatively close links to state highways.
Now it's time to include the community in this study. Please take the time to examine each of the options, and share your perspective through the 'Have your say' options.
✈👩✈️👨✈️ www.wdc.govt.nz...
Poll: Should the government levy industries that contribute to financial hardship?
As reported in the Post, there’s a $30 million funding gap in financial mentoring. This has led to services closing and mentors stepping in unpaid just to keep helping people in need 🪙💰🪙
One proposed solution? Small levies on industries that profit from financial hardship — like banks, casinos, and similar companies.
So we want to hear what you think:
Should the government ask these industries to contribute?
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60.1% Yes, supporting people is important!
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25.7% No, individuals should take responsibility
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14.3% ... It is complicated
A Neighbourly Riddle! Don’t Overthink It… Or Do?😜
Do you think you know the answer? Simply 'Like' this post if you know the answer and the big reveal will be posted in the comments at 2pm on the day!
If you multiply this number by any other number, the answer will always be the same. What number is this?
Have you got New Zealand's best shed? Show us and win!
Once again, Resene and NZ Gardener are on the hunt for New Zealand’s best shed! Send in the photos and the stories behind your man caves, she sheds, clever upcycled spaces, potty potting sheds and colourful chicken coops. The Resene Shed of the Year 2026 winner receives $1000 Resene ColorShop voucher, a $908 large Vegepod Starter Pack and a one-year subscription to NZ Gardener. To enter, tell us in writing (no more than 500 words) why your garden shed is New Zealand’s best, and send up to five high-quality photos by email to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz. Entries close February 23, 2026.
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