Latest fromWhangarei

'Have a good life': Grieving father forgives Ariki Rigby's killer
Murdered woman's family and supporters turn out in force for Napier court sentencing.

Government to widen definition of veteran and create new national tribute day
The definition had created division within the military community.

'A game-changer': New mental health facility opens in Whangārei
Manaia House in Whangārei cost $21.6m and has 75 consultation rooms.

'Life of darkness': Stepfather's 20 year sentence for 15 years of abuse
The victims have suffered self-doubt, PTSD, fear, distrust and shame.

‘Out on the bones of their a***’: Volunteer firefighters demand better ACC cover
The volunteers currently lack coverage due to their non-taxable status.

Three stretches of Far North state highway may keep lower speed limits
Stick or raise - Far North folk asked if lowered state highway limits should go up again

Hart family business tips Hansells Masterton into receivership
Hansells Masterton is a contract manufacturer which also owns the Horley’s brand.

School ‘shocked and upset’ as four students suspended after fight
Principal Mike Clent confirmed all four students involved have been suspended.

Libelle’s school lunch woes predate government changes, ex-worker claims
Far North school lunch worker believes food provider Libelle was mismanaged from start.

Northland moves to restricted fire season, Far North remains under ban
Most of Northland has moved into a restricted fire season but Far North rules still apply

14 new social houses opened in Kerikeri by Kāinga Ora
Kāinga Ora opens 14 new Far North social houses

Northland's meth crisis: Mexican cartels, lower prices, and devastation
Mexican cartels are undercutting Asian suppliers, increasing meth supply.

Country’s top environmental watchdog takes Far North District Council to court
Environmental Protection Authority prosecutes FNDC over Sweetwater Aquifer discharges.

Advocates urge tighter gun licence rules amid fears people slip through the cracks
Gun Control NZ calls for five-year licence renewals instead of the current 10.

‘Sign of the times’: Northland businesses cut hours amid economic woes
Cathay Cinemas in Kerikeri will close Mondays and cut weekday hours by 15-20%.

‘Horrific and abhorrent:’ Computer tech makes startling discovery on customer’s laptop
Ton Kaan claimed he did not know images of children in explicit poses were illegal.

News briefs from the Far North - Movie wins award, no bus on holidays and cheap trees
News snippets from the Far North

Celebrating 50 years: The enduring legacy of Te Tai Tokerau kapa haka festival
Twenty-eight kapa haka groups will perform in the two-day event.

Kaitāia man’s mission to clean up the town’s dumped trash
Kaitāia man cleaning up the town with help from dozens of youngsters

Far North Roading grows from humble roots to award-winning success
The company won the supreme award at the 2025 Te Tai Tokerau Māori Business Awards.

Unrestrained preschooler fell from car being driven by drunk aunty
'I should have known better,' said the woman whose partner was killed by a drink driver.