Protecting our wetlands and critically endangered wildlife
Wetlands are a precious part of our ecosystem, acting like the kidneys of the earth, cleaning the water that flows into them. They trap sediment and soils, filter out contaminants; can reduce flooding and protect coastal land from storm surge; and return nitrogen to the atmosphere. In New Zealand they support the greatest concentration of wildlife out of any other habitat and yet 90% of our wetlands have been cleared.
Many of the community conservation groups in the Hauraki Coromandel are working to protect remaining wetlands and the endangered species that inhabit them, such as the Matuku-Hūrepo or Australasian Bittern, pictured below.
This is a strikingly beautiful and secretive wetland bird that has perfected invisibility. Its colour and striations exactly mimic the close, vertical world of reeds and raupō, especially when it lifts its dagger beak right up, narrows itself to angular reed-thinness and sways gently with the wind-rustling stems. The male’s distinctive mating call is a sonorous, haunting boom that reverberates through its wetland habitat - the call of the wild.
Roadworks on SH1 between Hampton Downs and Rangiriri
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.
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
1 SLEEP TO GO HAMILTON
1 more sleep to go!!!!!!!!!! 🥰🥳🥳🥳
Elliott Park, Nawton Hamilton is the place to be tomorrow for the 11th year of the Annual Extravaganza in the Park Christmas Market 2025 We hope you can join us in this magical day.
What to Expect:
Live Music & a wide range of Entertainment
Pony Rides and Facepainting
Kids Market Stall Zone, Interactive stalls
Over 140 other Market Stalls
The Slush Truck
Delicious Food & Local Vendors from Hangi, Maori Kai and much more.....
Christmas Mini Photography Sessions - Capture your family in a photo from a great christmas gift this year.
Dont miss our special appearance from Santa stopping in from the North Pole to celebrate with us.
A great community vibe and day out
Extravaganza in the Park 2025
📍Where: Elliott Park, Hyde Ave Nawton Hamilton
📅 When: Sat 6th Dec 2025
⏰ 9am-2pm
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