1636 days ago

Whangārei residents urged to check their backyards for missing man

Melanie Earley Reporter from Whangārei Leader

Kia ora neighbours, Whangārei residents have been asked to check their backyards as the search for a man missing since Wednesday continues.

Brian Bench, 72, was reported missing to Northland police after last being at an address on Memorial Drive, near Riverside Drive, on Wednesday night.

Northland police said there had been a possible sighting of Bench in the Whangārei CBD area around 7am on Thursday.

“Police continue to be concerned for Brian's welfare and our search effort remains ongoing,” a police spokesperson said.

“We would like to thank those people who have called us so far. We continue to urge anyone who sees Brian to call 111.”

Anyone with information about possible sightings can also contact police on 105, quoting file number 210708/9824.

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More messages from your neighbours
2 days ago

Poll: Do you set New Year’s resolutions?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

🎉 2026 is almost here!

We’re curious ... how do you welcome it?
Do you set resolutions, follow special traditions, or just go with the flow?

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Do you set New Year’s resolutions?
  • 10.3% Yes! New Year, New Me
    10.3% Complete
  • 20.3% Yes - but I rarely stick to them
    20.3% Complete
  • 69.3% Nah - not for me
    69.3% Complete
688 votes
9 hours ago

🎉The Riddler wants to hear from you 🫵

The Riddler from The Neighbourly Riddler

🧩 Got a riddle that can stump your Neighbourly community? Share your brain teasers with us and watch your neighbours scratch their heads 😕🤔❓

Send us your tricky puzzles!

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18 hours ago

Morning Aches Are Optional - Let’s Start the Year Sleeping Better

Marketing Manager from Beds4U - Whangarei

Hey neighbours,

Waking up with sore shoulders and stiff mornings? Here’s the plot twist - it might actually be your mattress (and pillow) letting you down.

It’s the perfect time to upgrade. New Year, New Bed! Our Boxing Day Sale is still on, so why not treat yourself to a mattress that actually supports you and helps you wake up refreshed? Side sleeper? Back sleeper? Tossing and turning? We’ve got tips and solutions for every kind of snoozer.

Don’t settle for mornings that hurt, your bed should work with you, not against you. Curious about how your mattress could be affecting your shoulders? Check out our blog: beds4u.co.nz...

Find your nearest Beds4U store here: beds4u.co.nz/store-locator
Browse all Boxing Day deals: beds4u.co.nz/boxing-day

Here’s to starting 2026 waking up refreshed, because mornings should feel amazing!

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