BUSH PIGS VS STAGS: A ROARING WEEKEND OF RUGBY
The mighty Bush Pigs clashed with the Katikati Stags in a memorable home game on Aotea, organised thanks to local player Tyler Mitai Sykes and the wider Sykes whānau. Despite a valiant effort from the Pigs, the Stags claimed a 26–0 victory. The match was briefly halted after Stag player Reardon suffered an on-field injury and was airlifted out by Westpac Rescue Helicopter—another reminder to support this vital service. The game was followed by post-match festivities at Aotea Brewing. Huge thanks to Barrier Building, G.B. Transport, Barrier Air, Speedy Signs Manukau, Claris Club and all the supporters who made the event possible.
COMMUNITY-LED DEVELOPMENT LAUNCHES IN THE NORTH
Toitū Aotea is the new community-led development initiative focused on sustainability, whānau wellbeing, and building local resilience, with support from the Department of Internal Affairs. Led by Ngāti Rehua Ngātiwai ki Aotea, the programme kicks off with a hui at Port Fitzroy Boat Club, Friday 22 March, 2–5pm, followed by kai and local music. Locals are invited to share ideas for projects addressing water, power, food, culture, youth activities, and more. Contact AoteaCLD@ngatirehua.iwi.nz to be part of the mahi.
DARK SKY REPORT & LOCAL FISH PLAN PITCHED AT BOARD MEETING
February’s local board meeting began with a moment of silence for Monique van Ditzhuyzen and Buster and Rebecca Park. Deborah Kilgallon presented the annual Dark Sky Sanctuary report, noting Aotea’s night sky remains exceptional. Thanks to local board support, a new meteor watch station is now operating in Medlands—check out the timelapse at fireballs.nz. Judy Gilbert also spoke to a $5,000 grant application for a community fish quota project, aiming to get local fish on local plates. With 2025 an election year, candidacy for local board opens in July. The next business meeting is 1pm, Tuesday 25 March.
ARTS & HISTORY VILLAGE BUZZING WITH EXHIBITIONS & MARKETS
Aotea Arts & History Village has launched 2025 with energy, from school visits to exhibitions and new artists joining the collective. Fenella & Peter’s ‘New Works’ drew a strong crowd in February, and Monique Endt’s “Dancing Around the Barrier” runs until 28 March. The next EVERYBODY’S Market is Saturday 26 April, 10am–1pm. Stall bookings and creative tutor expressions of interest to: coordinator@aoteaahv.nz. The upcoming group show Collaborate invites group entries (hand-in between 12–16 May). All mediums welcome.
ECOLOGY FESTIVAL SET FOR 29 MARCH
This year’s Ecology Festival on Saturday 29 March promises powerful kōrero and learning. Speakers include Fletcher Beazley (DOC/Ngāti Rehua Ngātiwai), Graeme Atkins (renowned for native plant conservation), Richard Griffiths (Island Conservation), and Aotea’s own Opo Ngawaka. A special VR exhibit, Kauri Pou Kaitiaki, will immerse visitors in the world of our forests. To book a display stall, contact Jo O’Reilly at ecologyvisiongbi@gmail.com or 022 314 9346. More at ecologyvision.co.nz or via the Ecology Vision Facebook page.
FOOD RESILIENCE SHINES AT CURRACH HARVEST DINNER
Grow Food Aotea and The Currach teamed up for a sold-out Late Summer Harvest Dinner on 27 February, transforming locally grown produce into a four-course feast. Chefs Shane and Carl highlighted the vibrancy of Aotea-grown ingredients, serenaded by Shane Langford’s live music. $100 from the event proceeds will go to each of the island’s three kura to support their school gardens. Thanks to all gardeners, contributors, and organisers including Jo O’Reilly, Orla & Mark, Ally Gibbs, and Food Resilience Coordinator Caity Endt.
LEGO CLUB BUILDS BIG ON AOTEA
Nichole Lill has launched a thriving Lego Club on Aotea, with kids diving into creative builds—some forming groups to design intricate ships and engines. The next sessions are Kaitoke School on 2 April, and Mulberry Grove on 9 April, both from 3–4pm. There’s strong demand to expand to Okiwi, and plans are in motion. Watch this space for more building blocks of fun.
KĀKĀ CHICK TAKES FLIGHT
The first of nine tracked kāka chicks from Windy Hill Sanctuary has officially left the nest. Landcare Research’s Neil Fitzgerald shared GPS maps of the chick’s journey—first to Motu Kaikoura, then onward to Coromandel. The tracking shows promising data about habitat use and flight patterns. Thanks to Manaaki Whenua – Landcare Research for providing the insights.
NORTH BARRIER RATEPAYERS SEEK ADMIN SUPPORT
The North Barrier Residents and Ratepayers Association is looking for someone to help with short-term administrative tasks, especially updating its constitution in line with changes to charities law. If interested, text Josh on 021 147 8088 to arrange a chat. The Association also thanks Auckland Council and the Local Board for funding support.
