Mayor's column

Read the latest columns by Whangārei Mayor Ken Couper.

All columns were accurate at the time of publication and may contain information and / or contacts that are no longer current.

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13 Result(s) Found

Mayor's column – Rally, rugby and a region on show

Published on 21 September 2026

Whangārei is set for a major events weekend from 25 to 27 September 2026, hosting the International Rally of Whangārei and the Northland Taniwha’s final Ranfurly Shield defence for the season.

Mayor's column – More than a game

Published on 07 September 2026

The Ranfurly Shield is back in Northland and that belongs to Northland Rugby, to the players, the coaches, the management and everyone who has worked towards this over a long period.

Mayor's column – Planning for the long term in a time of change

Published on 24 August 2026

Two timeframes sit in front of the Whangārei District at once. One is the next 10-year plan for Whangārei, now in its early stages. The other is the question of reform, and what structure will best serve our region into the future.

Mayor's column – Region of many firsts

Published on 10 August 2026

Last week, the Head Start Proposal for local government reform in Northland was submitted. We are following a pathway prescribed by Central Government.

Mayor's column – Building on solid foundations

Published on 27 July 2026

Last week brought news of real significance to Northland and Whangārei. The Government has confirmed up to $60 million in support to keep Golden Bay Cement operating at Portland.

Mayor's column – Getting reform right for Northland

Published on 13 July 2026

Members from the four Northland councils have identified a preferred option for a new local government structure in the region.

Mayor's column – The cost of leaving it to others

Published on 29 June 2026

There is no shortage of conversation about Whangārei and Northland at the moment. Public debate is constant, social media moves quickly, and information travels instantly but not always accurately.

Mayor's column – Leading through resilience

Published on 16 June 2026

Now that we are moving into the winter months, is it timely to reflect on the first seven months of this iteration of Council.

Mayor's column – Carrying Northland’s momentum into the election year

Published on 02 June 2026

There are periods in New Zealand’s history when major infrastructure decisions and changes to the regulatory framework have occurred at the same time. When they do, the effects on regions are often felt well beyond the moment those decisions are made.

Mayor's column – Shaping reform the Northland way

Published on 18 May 2026

Northland has always had a strong sense of self-determination. Being masters of our own destiny reflects the reality that decisions in this region are shaped by distance, dispersed communities and complex geography.

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New bylaws may affect new approvals

From Friday 25 September 2026, three new bylaws are now in force: Public Safety and Nuisance Bylaw; Public Trading, Events and Commercial Filming Bylaw; and Signs Bylaw. Existing permits and exemptions remain valid, but some new approvals may be affected.
We’re updating our website to reflect the new rules. If you have any questions, email: BylawEnforcement@wdc.govt.nz.

Public notice and bylaw links

Announcement

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VHF channel change from 1 October 2026

From Thursday 1 October 2026, the VHF channel to contact Bridge Control for the Te Matau a Pohe and Kotuitui Whitinga bridges to be raised will be changing to VHF channel 10. This change is being made to improve communications between boats and Bridge Control.

Announcement

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Notice of temporary dog access rule

Under clause 10.1 of Whangarei District Council’s Dog Control Bylaw 2024, the area of Okara – former Old Boys rugby grounds playing fields is temporarily closed to the public, including for dog access, until further notice due to multiple safety hazards identified on site.

Read public notice

Temporary Closure

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Wastewater network capacity

We are carefully managing the capacity of our wastewater network in Ruakākā and parts of Whangārei Heads. Before applying for a Resource Consent or Building Consent, please contact us to find out whether your project may be impacted.

Submit an online customer request

Announcement

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Hātea walkway swing bridge temporarily closed

The Hātea walkway swing bridge on the walking trail from A H Reed Memorial Kauri Park to Whangārei Falls is closed following a failed safety inspection. We are working with specialist engineers and contractors to replace the bridge structure to ensure necessary stabilisation and safety improvements.

See the project page for details

Temporary Closure

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Broadleaf weed treatment

Broadleaf weed control treatments will be taking place at selected parks, reserves and playgrounds throughout September and October 2026. See which areas are being treated and read the guidance for visiting a treated area.

Read public notice

Announcement

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Mayor's column

Mayor's column – Rally, rugby and a region on show

Mayor's column – More than a game

Mayor's column – Planning for the long term in a time of change

Mayor's column – Region of many firsts

Mayor's column – Building on solid foundations

Mayor's column – Getting reform right for Northland

Mayor's column – The cost of leaving it to others

Mayor's column – Leading through resilience

Mayor's column – Carrying Northland’s momentum into the election year

Mayor's column – Shaping reform the Northland way

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