School Cross Country This Thursday
Te Kura o Okiwi is hosting the island’s interschool cross-country this Thursday, 11 September. Proceedings begin at 10.45am with karakia, mihi, and kōrero, before races get underway. Events should wrap up by 12pm, followed by lunch and awards. The community is warmly invited to come and support tamariki from all three kura. Police will be on traffic management between Okiwi School and DOC from 11am–12pm—drivers are asked to avoid the area if possible.
Library Competition Winner Announced
The latest library guessing game drew more than 160 entries, with the magic number revealed as 221. Two patrons guessed 222, forcing a draw. With help from the local police, Ruby Maurice was declared the winner. Congratulations Ruby, and thanks to all who joined in the fun—keep an eye out for the next library challenge.
Free Coasters at My Fat Puku
My Fat Puku Pizzeria is offering a free coaster with every Puku Brew during pizza nights, Fridays and Sundays from 5–7pm. Orders can be made by phone on 09-4290811.
Firewood for Sale
Firewood is available, with free delivery and neat stacking anywhere on the island. Options include mānuka, macky, and pine. To order, call or text 027 274 3664.
SeaLink Summer Timetable Out Now
SeaLink NZ has released its summer schedule for travel to Aotea, covering October 2025 through March 2026. Bookings are now open — call 0800 732 546 or head to sealink.co.nz to secure your spot. Time to set sail for paradise!
Ambulance Fundraising Update
Thanks to 35 generous donors, $50,000 has already been raised towards the $150,000 goal needed to fund two off-island paramedics for the next year and ensure 24/7 ambulance cover. Donations can be made to the Great Barrier Island Community Health Trust, ASB account 12-3011-0531871-00, reference “Ambulance Paramedic.” To receive a tax receipt, email office@gbicht.nz. This fundraiser is facilitated by Aotea Philanthropy.
Aotea Brewing Reopens
Aotea Brewing and Good Neighbours Food are now officially open for the season at 50a Mason Road, Medlands. Locals and visitors can enjoy fresh craft beer brewed with solar power. Opening hours are Fridays and Saturdays from 3–6pm.
Kawa Marae Pizza Oven Firing Up
Kawa Marae invites the community to celebrate their new pizza oven on Saturday 13 September from 11am–2pm. The event will include kōrero about pizza ovens, demonstrations of earth vs steel umu, and insider tips for the perfect pizza. Everyone is welcome to make, bake, and share kai. Contact Sacha on 027 935 4873 or aoteacld@ngatirehua.iwi.nz for more info.
Barrier Social Club Hiring
The Barrier Social Club is looking for a new bar manager to work Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday nights. Applicants should be enthusiastic and responsible, with hospitality experience an advantage. A manager’s certificate is a bonus, but training may be arranged for the right candidate. Competitive hourly rates offered. Email barriersocial@gmail.com for details.
Remembering Tram
Tributes have poured in for Peter (Tram) Tremain, a much-loved island character remembered for his craftsmanship, endless projects, kind heart, and passion for the ocean. Friends described him as a “gentle soul,” “legend,” and “master craftsman,” whose humour and sparkle will be missed. Condolences to Don, Max, Dave, and all who knew him.
Glenfern Bridge Renewal Completed
The Glenfern bridge and ford have now been completed, following work to replace the old structure with a safer and more resilient design. The renewed crossing improves access to Glenfern Sanctuary and the wider Port Fitzroy area, ensuring locals and visitors can enjoy this taonga for years to come.
Power System Upgrade Thanks
Aotea Family Support Group has completed a major power system upgrade thanks to support from Air New Zealand’s Every Corner Project and the Aotea Local Board. Special thanks go to Tryphena Builders — Paul (Goose) and Madelynne McArthur with Josh Scarlett — for the new generator shed and storage room, and to Great Barrier Electrical — Shaun Currie, Ian Gordon (Igor) and Tim Affleck — for delivering a much-needed reliable power system.
Meet the Candidates – Election 2025
The first community meeting of the 2025 local board campaign is set for 5pm on Friday 12 September at Claris Club. Voters will get the chance to hear from Aotea/Great Barrier’s candidates and see them put to the test with tough questions ahead of the election.
New Year’s Picnic 2026
The annual New Year’s Picnic will take place at 10am on Friday 2 January 2026 at the GBI Sports & Social Club in Claris. Stalls are now open for booking — contact Taryn Wilks on 022 044 5570 or email newyearpicnic@gmail.com to secure a space. The event is alcohol-free and dog-free, and funds raised will go towards the Aotea Family Support Group.
New Community Worker
Aotea Family Support Group has welcomed Mike McLorinon as the island’s new community worker. Mike will be based in Claris on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays, Okiwi on Wednesdays, and Tryphena on Mondays. He’s keen to meet locals, whether you need help, are part of an organisation that supports the community, or just want to drop in for a chat. To make an appointment you can call 027 356 5567 or email community.worker@aoteafamilysupport.co.nz.
