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Community News

Dolphins Join Surfers at Sunset in Magical Medlands Moment

Video footage of five dolphins riding the waves with a group of surfers at Medlands Beach has captured hearts online—offering a moment of magic as the sun set behind the island’s hills, Monday. The scene unfolded with the brilliant yellow…

More Families on Outlying Islands Opt for Off-Island Schooling

More families from New Zealand’s outlying islands and remote rural communities are turning to mainland boarding schools, as increased government subsidies make off-island education more accessible—though costs still far outstrip support. New Ministry of Education data shows $3.24 million was…

Comvita founder credits Barrier’s Les Blackwell for putting him on path to honey empire

The founder of $250 million New Zealand honey giant Comvita has credited Great Barrier Island’s Les Blackwell as the starting point of his journey into beekeeping and natural health – a path that would eventually lead to one of the…

Community News

Search Widens for Missing Barrier Sailor

Barrier Yacht/ Skipper Disappearance Enters Third Month.

Locals guide stranded whale back to sea off Aotea’s south coast in a powerful moment of community and care.

Community News

Locals Usher Stranded Whale Back to Sea

Locals Rally to Guide Whale Back to Sea A dramatic rescue unfolded off the island’s southern coast earlier this month when a whale became stranded in shallow waters. Locals including Barney Scott formed a human chain to guide the whale…

Community News

Trial Brings Urgent Care Boost to Great Barrier Island

Great Barrier Island will be one of six rural communities to pilot a major new Government initiative aimed at transforming after-hours and urgent healthcare, with a $164 million investment unveiled in the lead-up to Budget 2025. Currently, after-hours urgent care…

Barrier Bach Wins Top Honours at 2025 Architecture Awards

The Hauraki Gulf took centre stage at the 2025 Auckland Architecture Awards, with homes on Great Barrier, Waiheke, and Kawau all honoured for designs that embrace fragility, remoteness, and raw coastal beauty. From off-grid elegance to urban ferry terminals, the…

Indy Yelich — poet, songwriter, and younger sister of Lorde — is carving out her own sound with quietly powerful tracks like Sail Away. Photo / Supplied

Bush Tracks: Indy Yelich – Sail Away

We’re addicted. Lorde’s sister Indy Yelich has released a track we can’t get out of our heads — Sail Away is subdued, haunting, and unforgettable.

The Auckland Council service centre and local board office in Claris—hub of local decision-making on Great Barrier Island. Photo / Auckland Council

Community News

Thinking of Running? Local Board Candidate Info Sessions Announced for Great Barrier Island

The Auckland Council service centre and local board office in Claris—hub of local decision-making on Great Barrier Island. Photo / Auckland Council

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…