Broadcaster and environmentalist Tim Higham remembered
Tireless environmentalist and storyteller Tim Higham has passed away, leaving a legacy from the UN to the Hauraki Gulf and beyond.
Anamata Rises from the Ashes: Community Celebrates Full Reopening
The Tip Shop (Anamata Recycling) has officially reopened its doors following months of repairs after the fire that tore through its main shed last December. Locals gathered for a blessing, barbeque, and cake to mark the occasion — a moment…
Bid launched to outlaw private helipads in residential areas
Auckland councillors will soon consider a move to ban private helipads in residential areas across Auckland, including Aotea / Great Barrier Island and Waiheke. Waitematā and Gulf councillor Mike Lee, whose ward covers the entire Hauraki Gulf, is bringing two…
Barrier Poised for Luxury Cruise Boost
Great Barrier will be promoted to international visitors as part of a luxury cruise land program this summer, as cruise operator Oceania Cruises brings its 1,250-guest ship Riviera to New Zealand for the first time. The ship will not call…
Barrier Homeowners Face Rates Hike as Values Soar
While mainland Auckland property values plummeted, homeowners on picturesque Great Barrier Island are about to be slammed from a staggering 38% average increase in their Capital Values (CVs) – the highest jump across the entire Auckland region. The eye-watering surge…
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…
Search Widens for Missing Barrier Sailor
Barrier Yacht/ Skipper Disappearance Enters Third Month.
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…