Thirty-five new Far North residents were officially welcomed as New Zealand citizens at a ceremony held on Monday 15 December, marking a significant milestone for individuals and families from across the world who now call New Zealand and the Far North home.

Summer holidays have begun, and Far North District Libraries are gearing up for their annual summer reading programme. Tamariki, rangatahi and their whānau can start exploring from Monday 5 January, when our libraries reopen in the new year.

Te Taitokerau communities are already experiencing the impacts of climate change and many are adapting to new challenges, according to a case study released by He Pou a Rangi | The Climate Change Commission.

Summer is upon us and that got us thinking about how planning for a happy holiday is a bit like planning for a thriving future when our climate is changing.

Summer in the Far North is a special time, as whānau flock to the coast to enjoy the sunshine, often with their dogs in tow. With beaches being busier over the holiday period, we would like to remind dog owners that a little extra care helps everyone enjoy a safe and relaxed summer.