Kāpiti’s dedicated electrification expo is bringing solar, home batteries, electric vehicles, e-bikes, hot water heat pumps, induction cooktops and more together under one roof. 

Solar power expert Iain McIssac of Green Van Solar & Electrical says this is an opportunity for the public to see the tech up close, compare options and talk directly to the people who install, supply and use it every day.

“Basically the Expo is about finding ways to use the latest technology to help people to save money and ensure essentials are operating during a power cut, including medical emergencies and natural disasters.”

McIssac says there are a lot of options available now from hot water heat pump, DC car charging and the latest battery technology. He says even solar panels are getting upgrades every year.

“With power prices rising and now sitting at around 40cents a KW it doesn’t take long for those power bills to get out of control. Come and see us at the Expo and we can guide you through options says McIssac.

Home energy technology has changed dramatically in just a few years. An average household has the potential to save over $3,000 across their home energy and transport costs — and many people don’t realise how much is now within reach.

The Expo will have Exhibitor stalls — solar, batteries, EVs, e-bikes, hot water heat pumps and more from local and national suppliers. There will also be talks from independent experts and community leaders on what works, what to watch for, and how to get started

This free expo is on Sunday, 4 Oct, 10am – 4pm at the Waikanae Memorial Hall.

The Boil Water Notice for the Mangaore water supply was lifted at 4pm on Thursday 24 September 2026.

Test results from samples collected on Wednesday 23 September 2026 were received this afternoon and confirm the water meets all drinking water requirements. As a result, the precautionary boil water notice has been lifted and residents no longer need to boil their water before use.

The notice was issued as a precaution after two dead rats were discovered in one of the reservoirs during a routine inspection. The affected reservoir was immediately taken offline, and Council worked closely with Taumata Arowai, the water regulator while remedial work and testing were carried out.

Chief Executive Monique Davidson said the incident highlights the importance of regular inspections and robust monitoring systems.

“We know a boil water notice can be disruptive, and we’d like to thank the Mangaore community for their patience and cooperation while this work was completed.”

“We’re pleased to confirm that the water is safe to drink and the boil water notice has now been lifted.”

“While this type of situation was concerning, this is exactly why we have regular inspections, monitoring programmes and response procedures in place. These systems enabled us to quickly identify the issue and take immediate action.”

“Providing safe, reliable drinking water is one of our most important responsibilities, and we will continue to monitor the supply, and we’ll always err on the side of caution for this reason.”

Council will continue working with Taumata Arowai and review the incident to understand how the rodents entered the reservoir and identify any further improvements that can be made to the water supply system.

Residents can now return to using tap water as normal.

“The collision, involving a truck and car, was reported about 6.50am on Thursday and happened between Tararua Road and Meadowvale Road. 

“Sadly, the driver of the car died at the scene and Police are now providing support to their next of kin.” 

Police say enquiries into the crash are ongoing. 

More Traffic news: www.trafficfox.co.nz

From 1 October 2026, motorists will be required to leave a minimum distance of 1.5 metres when overtaking a pedestrian, cyclist, horse rider or other vulnerable road user on the road.

The new law replaces the previous recommended guidance around passing cyclists and, importantly, is the first time horse riders have been included in a road safety measure aimed at preventing death and serious injury among our most vulnerable road users.
NZVRU Trust Chair Julia McLean said the change recognises a long-standing road safety concern and sends a clear message that vulnerable road users deserve greater protection.

“This is a landmark moment for road safety in New Zealand. For years, pedestrians, cyclists and horse riders have been calling for stronger measures to reduce the risk of serious injury and death caused by unsafe overtaking.

“A passing-distance law is only effective if it is supported by education, awareness and enforcement. Drivers need to understand both their legal responsibilities and the potentially devastating consequences of passing too closely.”

The Trust said the law aligns strongly with its national Pass Wide & Slow campaign, which promotes safer behaviour around vulnerable road users and encourages motorists to leave plenty of space and reduce speed when passing.

While welcoming the new minimum standard, the Trust is continuing to advocate for drivers to give horses even more room.
International best-practice guidance recommends motorists allow at least two metres of space and reduce their speed to approximately 20 km/h when passing a horse. A horse can weigh more than 500 kilograms and may react suddenly to unexpected
movement, noise or proximity.

“Drivers often underestimate how vulnerable horse riders are. Giving a horse extra space and slowing down costs very little time but can prevent a life-changing incident.”

The Trust says the law is an important response to the ongoing toll of death and serious injury involving vulnerable road users.
Last year, McLean presented never-before-seen horse-rider fatality statistics at Parliament, helping to highlight the scale of the issue and the need for meaningful change.

The new law will be supported by a $300 infringement penalty, reinforcing the importance of safe overtaking behaviour.
“Our message remains simple: safe choices save lives,” said Julia McLean.

“Whether you’re passing a person walking, cycling or riding a horse, slow down, give them space and remember they are someone’s loved one. Everyone deserves to get home safely.”

Video When you See a Vulnerable Road User – Pass Wide and Slow

More traffic news at: www.trafficfox.co.nz

More traffic news at: www.trafficfox.co.nz

More news from the trust see: https://nzvulnerableroadusertrust.rocketspark.co.nz

The SFO’s Counter Fraud Centre has been offering free webinars to government agencies, drawing on insights and practical examples from real SFO cases – and will now open these to all businesses with a New Zealand business email address.

“Fraud and corruption can have a substantial impact on businesses, including cost, stress to staff and reputational damage,” SFO Director Karen Chang says.

“We know that when people are under pressure, the risk of an insider threat – someone who can cause harm to an organisation from within – can grow, with small, private companies particularly vulnerable.”

According to a recent global report by the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE), private companies were victimised by the largest percentage of insider fraud, accounting for 44% of 2402 cases from 143 countries studied, with smaller organisations being the most vulnerable, followed by public companies and government.

The findings are backed by a recent NZ New Zealand Security Intelligence Service report, which says more insiders are causing harm to their organisations. The report said both public and private sector organisations in New Zealand are vulnerable to these threats, including theft of intellectual property, not following proper process, or misuse of assets.

“Very few employees become an insider threat, but they could do disproportionate damage to their organisations,” Ms Chang says. “It’s important to understand the risks and red flags. People may be led to commit fraud or corruption due to a series of pressures and events including financial stress, work dissatisfaction or job insecurity.

“We want to help businesses learn more about strong oversight and controls to detect and prevent fraud and corruption in their organisations.”

Upcoming webinars:

• Corruption 101 – September 22: This webinar explores what corruption looks like in practice, why people become involved, and where risk is highest across common operational areas. Participants will gain a practical, risk-based understanding of how to help strengthen an organisation’s defences.
• Fraud risks in procurement – October 15: In this webinar participants will learn about the various forms of fraud that can occur throughout the procurement lifecycle and see how taking a risk-based approach can help manage the risks.

To register visit: https://www.sfo.govt.nz/counter-fraud/workshops-and-webinars

The toilet block has reached the end of its useful life. Despite several attempts to fix it, the problems have continued, and the manufacturer has now confirmed it cannot be repaired. Council will remove the block, as spending more on it would not be good value for ratepayers.

Five other public toilets remain available in and around the Levin town centre:

• Salisbury Street, Levin
• Public Gardens, Bath Street
• Levin Adventure Park
• Mako Mako Road at Weraroa Domain
• Te Takeretanga o Kura-hau-pō, 10 Bath Street

The Salisbury Street, Bath Street and Levin Adventure Park toilets are open 7am to 5.30pm, extending to 8.30pm during daylight saving. The Mako Mako Road toilets are open 24 hours. The toilets at Te Takeretanga o Kura-hau-pō are available during the facility’s opening hours.

Horowhenua District Council’s Parks and Property Manager Lacey Winiata said the recurring faults had reached the point where continuing to repair the facility was no longer sustainable.

“We’ve had contractors attend the block a number of times, but the same faults continue to return. Spending further ratepayer money on short-term repairs that do not provide a lasting solution is neither sustainable nor responsible, particularly when other public toilets are available nearby.”

Ms Winiata acknowledged the closure would be an inconvenience for some people.

“We know this one is handy if you’re already in town. The map shows the closest alternatives, and Mako Mako Road is the one to remember if you need somewhere outside normal opening hours.”

Horowhenua District Council apologises for any inconvenience.

Pictured above: Map of public toilets in and around the Levin town centre.

Wingham joins the Hurricanes following three seasons with the Highlanders and is set to add competition and versatility to the club’s well-stocked front row contingent.

“I’m excited to be joining the Hurricanes in 2027. It’s a great opportunity to rub shoulders with some quality players and coaches, be part of a new environment, and to experience a new place,” Wingham said.

A powerful prop who can play on both sides of the scrum, Wingham came through the ranks in Dunedin, where he attended King’s High School. He was the school’s first New Zealand Schools representative in 23 years when he made the team in 2020 alongside fellow Hurricanes Fehi Fineanganofo, Harry Godfrey, and Siale Lauaki.

The 23-year-old continued his development with the Highlanders U20 side in 2021 and represented North Otago in the Heartland Championship the following year.

Wingham made his NPC debut with Otago in 2023 and has since played 38 times for the province. He started in last year’s historic Ranfurly Shield win over Canterbury and featured regularly in Otago’s run to the 2025 NPC final.

In 2024, Wingham made his Super Rugby Pacific debut for the Highlanders against the Hurricanes and made a total of eight appearances for the club.

Regarded as a promising youngster with plenty of potential, Hurricanes head coach Clark Laidlaw is eager to add Wingham to a cohort of props that also features All Blacks quartet Xavier Numia, Tyrel Lomax, Pasilio Tosi, and Siale Lauaki.

“Rohan’s a young prop, plays both sides of the scrum, and already has Super Rugby experience,” Laidlaw said.

“With our strong track record of producing quality props, we really feel like we can help develop him through our props who he can learn from and compete against, as well as through Jamie Mackintosh and his coaching.

“He’s a great addition to a strong area of the team. We look forward to him coming here and competing with those boys and putting his best foot forward during pre-season.”

Rohan Wingham

Date of Birth: 4 December 2002 (23-years-old)
Place of Birth: Dunedin
Position: Prop
Height: 1.89m
Weight: 120kg
Club: Dunedin Rugby Football Club
School: King’s High School
Playing Career: North Otago (2022), Otago (2023-present), Highlanders (2024-2026)
Honours: Ranfurly Shield (2025-2026)

Now Potatoes New Zealand is celebrating the outstanding success of two rising stars from the potato industry, with James Blair of A S Wilcox crowned the 2026 Young Grower of the Year and Amber Davy of Eurogrow named Runner Up and winner of the Innovation Award.

The Young Grower of the Year competition showcases the very best emerging talent in New Zealand horticulture, challenging competitors across a wide range of technical, practical and leadership disciplines.

For the potato industry, seeing two of its own stand on the national podium was a proud moment.

Potatoes New Zealand Chair Paul Olsen said the achievements of James and Amber reflect the calibre of people working across the industry and the bright future ahead.

“These awards celebrate excellence, dedication and leadership, and we could not be prouder of what James and Amber have achieved,” says Olsen.

“To have James take out the national title and Amber secure both Runner Up and the Innovation Award is an incredible result for them personally, for their organisations and for the wider potato industry.

“Success at the Young Grower of the Year Awards does not happen by chance. It comes from hard work, a commitment to learning and a genuine passion for growing food. James and Amber exemplify these qualities and are wonderful ambassadors for our industry.”

Olsen said both competitors represent the next generation of industry leaders who will help shape the future of New Zealand’s potato sector.

“What stands out about James and Amber is not only their technical capability, but also their enthusiasm, professionalism and willingness to embrace new ideas. These are exactly the qualities that will help drive our industry forward and ensure it continues to thrive for generations to come.”

Olsen says the future of the industry is in good hands with people like James and Amber coming through. He says their achievements should inspire other young people to consider a career in horticulture and see the many opportunities that exist within the potato industry.

Young Grower of the Year title recognises his exceptional performance across a demanding programme of challenges that tested technical knowledge, business management, communication, leadership and practical growing skills.

Amber’s Innovation Award highlighted her ability to think creatively and embrace new approaches, while her Runner Up placing recognised her consistently high performance throughout the competition.

Potatoes New Zealand also congratulated all competitors who took part in the 2026 Young Grower of the Year Awards, including third place getter Amelia Marsden of Thomas Brothers Orchard, who was also recognised with the Outstanding Leadership Award.

“The standard of competition continues to be exceptionally high, and all finalists should be incredibly proud of their achievements,” says Olsen.

“As an industry, we celebrate James and Amber’s success and look forward to seeing the contribution they will continue to make to New Zealand horticulture in the years ahead.”

Agreed by Horowhenua District Council, Palmerston North City Council, Rangitīkei District Council and Nga Tapūwae o Hau through the Joint Shareholders’ Committee, the Statement will guide Central Districts Water (CDW) through its establishment phase and once it begins delivering water services on 1 July 2027.

At its core, the Statement requires CDW to provide affordable, efficient, safe and reliable water services, while planning for the long term and remaining accountable and connected to the communities it serves.

It requires a long-term and affordable approach to infrastructure investment, aligned with council growth plans and iwi and hapū planning documents. It also sets expectations for strong governance and financial management, open communication and responsive customer service, resilient services, improved environmental outcomes and meaningful involvement of councils, mana whenua, iwi and hapū in planning and delivery.

While CDW will operate across a larger service area, the Statement recognises that communities , iwi and hapū, have different circumstances, priorities, relationships and responsibilities and these need to be built into the way CDW operates from the outset.

Horowhenua Mayor Bernie Wanden says one of the strengths of the Statement is its focus on both affordability today and investment for future generations.

“Water infrastructure requires decisions that look well beyond a single annual plan or council term. CDW needs to take a long-term approach while keeping affordability and value for money front and centre. That means being upfront about investment, managing risks well and making sure the capital programme supports the growth and environmental outcomes our communities need.”

Palmerston North Mayor Grant Smith says signing the Statement gives the CDW Board a clear understanding of what is expected.

“We’ve been determined from the outset that Central Districts Water should be built through true partnership, with our communities and their long-term interests at the centre of decision-making. There are no side chats, everyone is at the table, the rules of engagement are clear and there has been real unity.

“This Statement gives us a common direction: safe and reliable services, value for money, good long-term planning and an organisation that remains connected to the communities it serves.”

Rangitīkei Mayor Andy Watson says the partnership has been strengthened by recognising that communities across the service area are different.

“Rangitīkei is different from Palmerston North and different again from Horowhenua. We have rural communities, smaller towns and different infrastructure challenges, so retaining that local understanding is incredibly important to us. What has worked well through this process is that we haven’t tried to pretend every community is the same. The Statement gives CDW a clear expectation to deliver the benefits of working regionally while keeping a strong local focus.”

Nga Tapūwae o Hau representative Danielle Harris says the Statement provides a crucial foundation for an enduring partnership between CDW and mana whenua, iwi and hapū across the three districts.

“Wai is not simply infrastructure. It carries responsibilities and relationships that have endured for generations. What is significant is that these expectations have been agreed collectively. There is a shared understanding that relationships with mana whenua, iwi and hapū are part of the fabric of how CDW thinks, plans, invests and makes decisions from the beginning. That gives us an honourable starting point for a meaningful relationship built on trust, where local knowledge, tikanga and the different circumstances of iwi and hapū across the rohe are understood, respected and given effect to. We will not be judged by what we have done today, but by what the state of wai is in centuries to come.”

Central Districts Water Chair Hon Steve Maharey says the Statement gives the Board and establishment team clear priorities as they build the organisation.

“This document tells us very clearly what our shareholders and partners expect from us. Success will not be measured simply by whether water continues to come out of the tap, or goes down the drain. Our job is to gain the benefits of working together at scale without losing sight of the different communities, relationships and priorities within the area we serve. Having our partners aligned on those expectations gives us clear direction as we work towards 1 July 2027.”

The full Statement of Expectations can be viewed at www.centraldistrictswater.co.nz/expectations

Communities can stay up to date through the CDW website, social media channels and an email newsletter launching in the coming months.

There will also be opportunities for people to learn more and provide feedback, including on the Water Services Strategy, as CDW prepares to begin operating on 1 July 2027.

Until then, the three councils remain responsible for water services, and service requests or concerns should continue to be directed to the relevant council.

As part of the Levin Town Centre Transformation, the project will deliver a series of public murals across Council-owned buildings and spaces, helping to create a more vibrant, welcoming and distinctive town centre.

Public art is an important part of creating places where people want to spend time. It brings colour and character to everyday spaces, celebrates local identity and helps the community to connect with the places they live, work and visit.

Mayor Bernie Wanden says the project is about creating places that reflect the unique character of Horowhenua.

“The Levin Town Centre Transformation is about creating a town centre that’s vibrant, welcoming and uniquely ours. Public art has an important role to play in achieving that vision. It helps tell our stories, reflect who we are and helps create places that people are proud of and want to visit.”

Council is looking for artists who can create high-quality, contemporary works that respond to place and contribute to Levin’s evolving identity.

Murals will be commissioned for a range of Council-owned sites, with artists selected based on their style, experience and how well their approach suits each location.

Expressions of Interest are open to both established and emerging artists. Council is particularly interested in artists who value storytelling, creativity and collaboration, and who understand how public art can enhance shared public spaces.

Applicants will be asked to provide information about their artistic background, examples of previous work and their approach to creating public art that reflects both place and community.

Expressions of Interest close at 5pm on Monday 7 September 2026.

The Expressions of Interest Guide and online application form are available on Placemaking – Mural Expressions of Interest page.