Currach makes international headlines as world’s only solar-powered Irish pub
From Dublin to The Barrier: Orla and The Currach shine in Woman’s Day
Surf’s Up, Hoops Installed, and Election Race Heats Up – Community Roundup
Boardriders Club Scores Major FundingThe Aotea Boardriders Club has secured $64,100 from Auckland Council’s Sport and Recreation Facilities Investment Fund. The grant will go toward completing the long-anticipated clubhouse at Medlands, giving the island’s surf community a much-needed hub. Meet…
Mike Lee defends low attendance record: says ‘seat warming’ isn’t the job
Waitematā and Gulf councillor Mike Lee has pushed back at criticism of his meeting attendance, saying representing remote communities like Waiheke and Great Barrier requires time on the ground — not just “seat warming” at Auckland Council. Lee has the…
Public Views Sought on New Crayfish Rules Covering Great Barrier
Photo / Jasus Edwards
Micro-Hydro: Aotea’s Ultimate Off-Grid Edge — If You’re Lucky Enough
On an island where every lightbulb is powered by what you can harvest, store, or generate yourself, the idea of a machine quietly making electricity day and night feels almost magical. Unlike solar, which knocks off at sunset, or wind,…
Wind Power on Aotea: Jackpot or Money Pit?
Photo / Mike Gifford / CC
Tiki Taane to headline new January music festival on Aotea
January music festivals are set to return to Aotea in 2026 with the launch of the Afterglow Festival — a new event bringing top New Zealand acts to the island after a quiet summer this year. Afterglow will run from…
Government ‘actively considering’ regional airline support as Sounds Air and Barrier Air sound alarm
The Government is “actively considering options” to address growing concern over the viability of regional airlines — a signal that financial or regulatory support may be under consideration as carriers warn rising costs are forcing route cuts and fare hikes.…
Starlink dominates Great Barrier internet – but Amazon’s rival service is circling
The grip of Starlink — the satellite network pioneered by Elon Musk’s SpaceX and now the dominant internet provider on Great Barrier Island — may soon be challenged. Amazon’s competing service, Project Kuiper, has announced its first major commercial agreement:…
George Clarke: Wild About Barrier
British TV presenter and architect George Clarke says visiting Great Barrier Island was one of the most memorable experiences of his career — calling it “magical,” “wild,” and “a privilege.” Clarke, best known for Amazing Spaces, Restoration Man, and Old…