Choice News Tuesday: Kākāpō will be getting busy in 2026!
The kākāpō, our famously lovable but critically endangered land-parrot, are forecast to have a massive breeding season in 2026 - perhaps the biggest on record!
How do we know? Kākāpō only 'get busy' during rimu mast events (where rimu grow heaps of fruit), every 2-4 years. Because we can anticipate rimu mast events, and kākāpō love rimu fruit, we can predict kākāpō breeding activity.
Since there are only 242 kākāpō today, this bumper season is important.
This positive outlook on population numbers is especially exciting since, due to the mahi of conservationists, the kākāpō have completed their first season on the North island (at Sanctuary Mountain Maungatautari). The booming of the kākāpō has not been heard on the North Island of Aotearoa for over a century!
Read more about Aotearoa's flightless parrot and their nesting plans.
We hope this news brings a smile!
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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53.2% Yes
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46.8% No
Sunday Christmas Market @ Reyburn House Town Basin
Sunday 14 December · 9:00AM – 2:00PM
Reyburn House, Town Basin, Whangārei
Get ready for a festive day out at our Sunday Christmas Market!
Wander through a wonderland of arts, crafts, handmade gifts, delicious food, and unique local shopping—perfect for those last-minute Christmas presents or a special treat for yourself!
- Dog Friendly – Bring your furry friends along
- Free Parking
- Free Entry – Everyone welcome!
Whether you're supporting local makers, enjoying the holiday atmosphere, or just looking for a relaxing Sunday outing by the water, this is the place to be.
Location: 17–30 Reyburn House Lane, Town Basin, Whangārei
Come and celebrate the magic of the season with us! ✨
See you there!
Poll: Over summer, how do you reclaim your sense of home in Northland?
When tourists take over the streets and parking disappears, where do you find your calm?
Or is summer’s hustle something to enjoy rather than escape?
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80% I enjoy the summer hubbub!
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20% Please, give me some peace
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0% I escape the region during summer
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