AoteaGBI.news – Page 3 – Great Barrier Island News

This bright-green invasive caulerpa seaweed is smothering the delicate marine ecosystem on Great Barrier Island. Photo / Glenn Edney

Invasive Caulerpa Seaweed Detected Off Little Barrier Island

Patches of the invasive seaweed Exotic Caulerpa have been discovered at three locations off the northeast coast of Little Barrier Island, prompting a rapid response from local biosecurity and iwi groups. The seaweed, which includes the species Caulerpa brachypus and…

Environment

DOC denies 1080 plans for Aotea despite growing concern in community

The Department of Conservation has denied that any 1080 drop is currently planned or scheduled for Aotea / Great Barrier Island, following weeks of widespread speculation among residents and conservation stakeholders. In a written response to AoteaGBI.news, DOC Aotea Operations…

More than 100 tonnes of caulerpa washed up in this Great Barrier Island Bay after Cyclone Gabrielle. Photo / Sid Ware / Ministry for Primary Industries

Caulerpa Spread Risks Billions – Report

By Susan Botting, Local Democracy Reporter, NZME

Barrier Air has introduced a $228 return flight voucher between Auckland and Great Barrier Island, available until Sunday, February 18, and valid for 12 months from date of purchase.

Community News

Barrier Air Launches Winter Sale with Fares from $64

Barrier Air has launched a major winter sale, slashing fares to as low as $64 across all its routes — a sharp drop from regular ticket prices, which can go as high as $288. The airline announced the sale this…

Community News

Rāhui in Place at Ōkupu Following Tragic Incident

A rāhui has been placed at Ōkupu Point following an extremely tragic event in the area. The rāhui — a customary Māori restriction placed over an area — is a mark of respect and protection, asking people not to harvest…

Venomous Sea Snake Found on Flat Island Near Port Fitzroy

A venomous yellow-bellied sea snake has been discovered washed up on Flat Island, just off the coast of Great Barrier Island, near Port Fitzroy. This marks the third such find in New Zealand within the last two weeks. According to…

Community News

New Push to Mark Walking Paths on Great Barrier Island

A local project is working to mark and improve Aotea’s walking routes, helping locals and tourists move safely between settlements, avoid trespassing, and ease pressure on the island’s narrow roads.

Decisions from a Distance: Auckland Council Headquarters, 90 Kilometers Away from Aotea. Photo / NZME

Community News

Local Board to Meet as Māori Criticism, Rate Hike and Survey Blunder Mar Public Consultation

The Great Barrier Local Board will convene an extraordinary meeting on Tuesday at 11:30am to consider public feedback on Auckland Council’s proposed Annual Plan for 2025/26. However, the process has been overshadowed by criticism from mana whenua, a significant rates…

Community News

‘Couldn’t Be Prouder’: Island Gin Takes Top Honours at World Drinks Awards

Island Gin is riding an extraordinary wave of success, with its flagship Island Gin Original adding another prestigious title to its growing list of accolades: NZ’s Best London Dry Gin at the renowned World Drinks Awards. The latest triumph comes…

Community News

Hoops, Skates, and More: Medlands Park Revamp a Slam Dunk with Locals

It’s time to tip-off at Medlands Beach Playground Reserve, with a revamped basketball halfcourt now open – and it’s not just for shooting hoops! The court has a new colour coating and pickleball markings have been added, providing even more…