Police investigating arson and other offending at Ōrewa businesses
Police have commenced an operation on the Hibiscus Coast into a fire deliberately lit at a cafe over the weekend. It comes as Waitematā North CIB continues to investigate another attempted arson and damage at nearby Ōrewa businesses in recent months.
Waitematā North Area Commander Inspector John Thornley says the most recent fire occurred late on Saturday 1 November.
“Operation Governor has been set up to investigate the most recent fire on the main strip in Ōrewa,” he says. “It’s fortunate that no one has been harmed as a result of this fire, which is considered to be deliberately lit.”
Residents can expect to see a larger Police presence around Ōrewa over the coming days.
“I want the community to know that these attacks on local businesses won’t be tolerated and we are working hard to hold those responsible to account,” Inspector Thornley says. “These arsons are not only damaging property, but it’s affecting peoples’ livelihoods, and Police is open-minded about whether any of these incidents are linked.”
It’s highly likely the community’s information may prove pivotal in this investigation.
“We want to hear about any suspicious activity that people might have seen on Saturday night,” he says. “I’m asking anyone with dashcam footage around the Ōrewa township, between 10pm and midnight, on Saturday 1 November to make themselves known to the investigation team.
Anyone with information can update Police online now or call 105 using the reference number 251102/4265.
Information can also be provided anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.
Night-time roadworks on SH16
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 area. Click to find out more.
NZCCM Massage and English Programmes
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 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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Poll: Should we be giving the green light to new mining projects? 💰🌲
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 know: Should mining projects like this move ahead?
Keen to dig deeper? Mike White has the scoop.
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53.1% Yes
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46.9% No
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