King Kapisi, Salmonella Dub, Annie G and Drax Project Headline A Summer of Sounds on Aotea.
This summer, Great Barrier Island will host a range of exciting concerts beginning with Barrier’s Biggest Party on New Year’s Eve at the Claris Club, featuring performances by DEADBEAT, 80K, Coopers Run, and Annie G and the Isms. On January 4, Kiwi hip-hop artist King Kapisi will return to the Barrier Social Club after his successful performance last year. The summer schedule also includes performances by Salmonella Dub and Drax Project. Tickets are available at gstar.co.nz
Countdown to the New Year’s Picnic
The Aotea Family Support Group’s annual New Year’s Picnic will take place on January 2, 2025, starting at 10 AM at the Claris Sports and Social Club. This family-friendly event features live music, food stalls, kids’ games, and an exciting auction. Contact Taryn Wilks at newyearpicnic@gmail.com or 0220445570 to volunteer or book a stall. A Women’s Pamper Raffle and other generous prizes add to the fun.
Art and History: 60 Days of Summer
The Aotea Arts & History Village is hosting the “60 Days of Summer” gallery, celebrating local artists and their contributions to the island’s cultural legacy. Open from 10 AM to 4 PM daily, the exhibit showcases original works that reflect the essence of summer and the unique stories of Aotea.
Summer Food Safety Tips
As temperatures rise, it’s essential to keep fridges between 2–5°C and freezers at -18°C or below to prevent food spoilage. Community composting facilities at Medlands, Mulberry Grove, and Okiwi Schools offer sustainable solutions for food waste.
Nominations Open for Conservation Committee
Nominations are open for the Aotea Conservation Park Advisory Committee (ACPAC) for the 2025–2028 term. This committee advises the Department of Conservation on managing the park, which covers 43% of the island and protects endangered species like the black petrel and chevron skinks. Applications close at 5 PM on January 13, 2025. For details, contact Cara Fraider at adminacpac@doc.govt.nz.
Welcome to the New Police Team
Great Barrier Island welcomes its new police officers, Andy Osborne and Policarpo “Ding” Capunitan. Andy, originally from Whakatāne, and Ding, a Philippines native with over two decades in New Zealand, bring extensive policing experience, including stints in Auckland and overseas. Both officers have strong ties to the island, having served as relievers in the past. They are looking forward to engaging with the community and contributing to the island’s safety.
Muay Thai Triumphs for Barrier Fighters
A huge congratulations to Evander Sykes and Jason Skipps for their hard-earned Muay Thai wins at the Sunday Sessions event at the ABA Stadium on December 8. Training under Logan Golaboski, the pair’s hard work, dedication, and strict diets paid off, ensuring successful weigh-ins the day before their fights. Jason remarkably won his bout despite fracturing his toe in the first round. A group of supporters from the Barrier cheered them on, and thanks are extended to Logan and the community for their support, including through a fundraising raffle that made their journey to Auckland possible.
A Blooming Success: Garden Tour Raises Funds for Health Trust
The annual Spectacular by Nature Garden Tour on November 30 showcased 28 unique gardens across Great Barrier Island, drawing enthusiasts from near and far. The event, raising funds for dental equipment for the Community Health Trust, featured guided tours, scenic backdrops, and delicious teas served by locals. The ingenuity of gardeners, who rely on recycled and gifted plants due to the island’s isolation, impressed visitors. A heartfelt thanks to the owners, guides, and supporters who made this event a highlight of the island’s calendar.
