Community News – Page 5 – Great Barrier Island News

Home Buying Becomes a Steeper Climb on Hauraki Gulf Islands

Home buyers eyeing property on the picturesque Hauraki Gulf Islands are set to face tough new financial barriers. As of 1 July, the Reserve Bank of New Zealand is setting new debt-to-income (DTI) ratios that will significantly impact what people…

Community News

Pest-Free Panic: Rat Hunt Intensifies on Motutapu

The quest to capture a crafty rat from the pest-free shores of Motutapu has escalated, as conservation teams pull out all stops with the approaching nesting season. The unwelcome visitor was first spotted by a sharp-eyed DOC ranger in late…

Community News

Aotea Army Rallies for Parker Family in Okiwi

The Aotea Army descended on Okiwi on Sunday, demonstrating the extraordinary spirit of the Great Barrier Island community. Led by Leon Foster, the “army” of volunteers accomplished a remarkable amount of work for Kiri and Annette Parker, a couple facing…

A warm fire: a potential reality for Aotea homes under the Warmer Kiwi Homes program. Photo / Rachel Claire / CC

Community News

Warmer Kiwi Homes Program Considers Aotea Expansion

A warm fire: a potential reality for Aotea homes under the Warmer Kiwi Homes program. Photo / Rachel Claire / CC The Warmer Kiwi Homes program, a government initiative providing grants for insulation and efficient heaters, may be extended to…

The Pleiades constellation, known as Matariki in Te Reo, ushers in the Māori New Year. Photo / Martin Heigan / CC

Community News

Matariki Celebrations Set to Shine on Aotea on Friday

The Pleiades constellation, known as Matariki in Te Reo, ushers in the Māori New Year. Photo / Martin Heigan / CC On Friday, Aotea will come alive with the spirit of Matariki, offering a full day of cultural events, kai,…

Community News

Reel in the Prizes at Tight Lines Kids Fishing Comp This Saturday

Great Barrier Island – Get ready for an action-packed day on the water this Saturday, June 22nd! The “Tight Line’s Kids Fishing Comp” is back, and it’s shaping up to be a fantastic event. If you haven’t got your tickets…

Tryphena 2 Takes the Trophy! Their cool heads and disciplined approach earned them the top spot in the Great Barrier Island fire crew time trial. Photo / Leanne Sanderson via Barrier Bulletin

Community News

Island Firefighters Turn Up the Heat in Time Trial Challenge

Great Barrier Island’s finest firefighting crews gathered Saturday for an exhilarating time trial competition that showcased their skill, teamwork, and dedication to protecting our island community. Crews from Tryphena, Kaitoke, Okupu, and Awana/Okiwi battled it out, demonstrating their expertise in…

Freshly Harvested Carrots: A Vibrant Addition to Your Autumn Garden

Community News

Aotea Autumn Planting: A Comprehensive Guide

As June unfolds, it’s time to prepare our gardens for winter. Great Barrier Island’s unique coastal environment presents specific challenges, from sandy soils and sea spray on the east coast around Medlands to the damp, windy conditions on the west…

Change in the Air: Barrier Air Revises Ticket Policy Amid Soaring Costs. Photo / 100% Pure NZ

Community News

Barrier Air Slashes Prices to $79 for Matariki Weekend Getaway

Locals have an opportunity to get off the rock and enjoy a weekend in the big smoke, thanks to Matariki long weekend specials just released by Barrier Air. With tourists and holidaymakers set to flock to the motu, Barrier Air…

SeaLink ferry nearing Tryphena, Great Barrier Island (Aotea). Photo / GreatBarrier.co.nz

Community News

SeaLink Sailing Diversions due to Tryphena Wharf Upgrades

Residents and visitors should prepare for a change in their travel plans this July. The Wednesday SeaLink sailings to Tryphena Wharf will be diverted to Whangaparapara Wharf as major upgrades continue at Tryphena Wharf. Since April, Tryphena Wharf has been…