Latest from Far North District

Will the new Equity Index save Northland's deprived education sector?
A new school funding system reveals Northland as the region with the greatest need.

Whangārei Central a hotspot for car thefts
Car thefts are on the rise, especially in Whangārei Central and Paihia.

He's da bomb: Moerewa 21-year-old claims Manu Master title
Wharf jumpers brave icy water to celebrate iconic Northland summer pastime – in mid-winter

Northland musicians aim for top 30 semifinalist selection at Smokefreerockquest
Northland's regional Smokefreerockquest winners get high praise from judges.

People should remain vigilant: Community spread of Covid ramps up in Northland
Northlanders are being reminded to mask-up as the community spread of Covid-19 ramps up.

Photos: Bombs away at 2022 Manu Masters
Prizes were awarded for best style, spirit and splash as well as overall Manu Master title

Revealed: Identity of top cop who interfered in prosecution
The senior officer at the centre of an IPCA investigation is a familiar face in Northland.

Former Kaitaia teacher charged with rioting, intending to use weapon against police
Accused says he was caught up in 'moment of madness' on last day of Wellington protest.

Former MasterChef winner thrives on simple, pared-back life in Northland
Former MasterChef winner opens up about how TV show changed his life for the better.

Four meningococcal cases detected in Northland
Take steps this winter against meningococcal as four cases detected in Northland.

Another deluge to hit Far North tonight
Major slip closes Waiotemarama Gorge Rd in South Hokianga.

Briefs: Fatal Moerewa crash, arrest over gun incident
The latest news bites from around the region.

Calls for security on after-school buses as drivers battle violence and bad behaviour
"Someone is going to get very, very hurt."

Afghan families learn how to swim
Afghan families settled in Whananaki find their first swim lessons fun and exciting.

More than 60 charges laid after major drug and money laundering scheme busted
The syndicate was reportedly headed by a Waitematā man with links to a Vietnamese gang.

Waiotemarama Gorge Road in South Hokianga unlikely to be fully re-opened until August
Motorists advised about a major slip and detours in place in Hokianga.

Orange heavy rain warning and strong wind watch for Northland issued
Northlanders advised to take care on the roads this afternoon and to avoid going out.

New court system promises fairer, more inclusive justice
Kaitaia is just the third courthouse in New Zealand to adopt the Te Ao Mārama initiative.

Cost of living has a dampening effect on Northland house buyers' appetite
Northland's median price remains unchanged from June 2021, sitting at $700,000.

First Union claims Channel Infrastructure won't pay a cent towards site remediation
Expected cost of conversion to import-terminal at Marsden Pt between $200m and $220m.

'It was funny and very lucky to spot humpback whale so close to home'
Visitors in Northland blessed with the rare sight of humpback whales feeding in the water.

More heavy rain expected this week after downpour
The heavy rain for the week is not over, MetService is warning.

Butcher carves his way into Sharp Blacks and world stage
Dan Klink is one of 15 Hellers Sharp Blacks headed to the Olympics of butchery this year.

My car can't take it any longer: Motorists bemoan the state of Northland roads
Gaping holes in our state highways and local roads have sparked a new social media group.

Dairy staff detectives find getaway car, weapons after suspects' social media boast
Tutukaka store robber posts selfie with stolen cigarettes on social media.

Teen's mum praises 'hero' mates after freak skate accident
Injured skater's friends stopped the bleeding, called 111, kept calm and stuck with him.

Huge flocks of birds seen in Far North
Looming bad weather one possible explanation for giant flocks of gulls over Kaitaia.