News stories

People packed the Far North District Council chambers on Tuesday (7 July) to honour unsung heroes in our communities.

This is a joint media release from the four Northland councils.

A steering group of elected members from across all four Northland councils has recommended a preferred option for a new local government structure in the region – a staged transition beginning with two unitary authorities, moving to a single Northland-wide unitary authority over time.

Far North communities are invited to be part of Plastic Free July – a global movement encouraging people to reduce single-use plastics through simple, everyday choices.

Meticulous planning is now complete for a five-month project to upgrade stormwater pipes in central Kaitāia, with work beginning on 9 July.

Last month, Far North District Council celebrated the graduation of its 2025/26 cadets with a Whakawātea, recognising the achievements of six young people who have successfully completed programmes designed to help them build confidence, gain valuable workplace experience and prepare for future careers.

Far North District Council has adopted its Annual Plan which includes an average rates increase of 6.7 per cent for this financial year – the figure promised in the Long Term Plan 2027-37.

How did Ngāwha prisoners help new citizens in the Far North mark the occasion?

Far North District Council is working with Te Hāpua community members to resolve concerns about new variable speed limit signs installed outside the local school.

More than 2300 survey responses were received from residents, organisations, and iwi and hapū across all four Northland councils in May and June, reflecting the strong interest Northland communities have in the future of local government in our region.

This is a joint news story from all four Northland councils.