Conserve water where you can
Northlanders and visitors to the region are being urged to conserve water as a dry summer continues.
Northland Regional Council Chair Geoff Crawford says parts of the Far North and Kaipara Districts have been under water restrictions since late last year and the region has only got drier since then.
"That - coupled with an influx of the tens of thousands of visitors we’re expecting over Northland-Auckland Anniversary weekend and Waitangi week - all puts pressure on our water supplies."
Chair Crawford says the regional council, which monitors river flows, groundwater and manages resource consents to take water, is urging everyone to play their part and do what they can to conserve water.
"Water shortages affect everyone - albeit in different ways - with farmers and water tank users needing to pay to top up their supplies. That water has to come from somewhere."
"Rainfall is the key to it all...we've been hoping for it and while some areas have had some rainfall in recent weeks and some further rain is predicted in the coming week, unfortunately it has not fallen across the whole region and has not been enough to top up our rivers."
While the region waits for rain, Chair Crawford urges people to use water sensibly and notify any leaks to their local district council.
He says Bewaterwise.org.nz has some useful water saving tips.
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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53.3% Yes
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46.7% 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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83.3% I enjoy the summer hubbub!
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16.7% Please, give me some peace
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0% I escape the region during summer
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