Multimedia journalist for the Northern Advocate
We are your advocate, Aotearoa. Uncovering stories that matter, asking hard-hitting questions of those in power, live-blogging sport events, monitoring the highs and lows of the NZX and providing Premium expert opinion and analysis. Bringing you distinctive, quality journalism and breaking news from across New Zealand and around the world. With specialists working together to create indepth reads, engaging video, and unmissable podcasts.
![Equine therapy paradise plays key role in people’s mental health and wellbeing journeys](/pf/resources/images/placeholders/placeholder_l.png?d=815)
Equine therapy paradise plays key role in people’s mental health and wellbeing journeys
The tranquil environment also contributes positively to therapeutic outcomes for clients.
!['It was one of the best gigs of my entire life': Comedian's fond memories of performing in Whangārei](/pf/resources/images/placeholders/placeholder_l.png?d=815)
'It was one of the best gigs of my entire life': Comedian's fond memories of performing in Whangārei
'It’s gonna be an awesome show!'
!['I’m just one of the boys': Northland woman leading the way in a man's world](/pf/resources/images/placeholders/placeholder_l.png?d=815)
'I’m just one of the boys': Northland woman leading the way in a man's world
'I was gobsmacked. I haven’t won anything in my whole entire life.'
!['I’m not totally a head-banger': Taking on Smokefreerockquest solo](/pf/resources/images/placeholders/placeholder_l.png?d=815)
'I’m not totally a head-banger': Taking on Smokefreerockquest solo
Ethan Worthington was part of last year's winning band Ready, Set!
!['Like a bomb went off': New Miss New Zealand on the moment she was crowned](/pf/resources/images/placeholders/placeholder_l.png?d=815)
'Like a bomb went off': New Miss New Zealand on the moment she was crowned
Poole is passionate about her charitable work.
![Northlander stars in return of TV show Young Riders](/pf/resources/images/placeholders/placeholder_l.png?d=815)
Northlander stars in return of TV show Young Riders
It took a while to get used to being on camera but it soon became second nature.
!['I can feel him around me': Family of student killed in Abbey Caves tragedy on their heartbreak](/pf/resources/images/placeholders/placeholder_l.png?d=815)
'I can feel him around me': Family of student killed in Abbey Caves tragedy on their heartbreak
“I remember saying to him, ‘Don’t worry Tino, if it’s no good ... they won’t let you go."
![From studying law to playing the potty-mouthed 'bogan': Aussie comedian Chopper gets candid](/pf/resources/images/placeholders/placeholder_l.png?d=815)
From studying law to playing the potty-mouthed 'bogan': Aussie comedian Chopper gets candid
The comedic icon says meeting the real life Chopper Read was under-whelming.
![The story of survival behind a wooden heart stolen from the roadside](/pf/resources/images/placeholders/placeholder_l.png?d=815)
The story of survival behind a wooden heart stolen from the roadside
The stolen heart not only symbolises Kayla's birth but also her fight for survival.
![Exhibition to feature the works of iconic Māori modernist artists](/pf/resources/images/placeholders/placeholder_l.png?d=815)
Exhibition to feature the works of iconic Māori modernist artists
‘Māori art is burgeoning at the moment – it’s in such good health.’
![All creatures great and small - the life of a rural vet](/pf/resources/images/placeholders/placeholder_l.png?d=815)
All creatures great and small - the life of a rural vet
In the end, it’s your family who pay the price.
![When Hollywood comes to Whangārei - WBHS student stars alongside Guy Pearce](/pf/resources/images/placeholders/placeholder_l.png?d=815)
When Hollywood comes to Whangārei - WBHS student stars alongside Guy Pearce
The Convert is said to be the highest-budget production from Aotearoa.
!['He died in my arms' - Dad thankful to daughter and strangers who saved his life](/pf/resources/images/placeholders/placeholder_l.png?d=815)
'He died in my arms' - Dad thankful to daughter and strangers who saved his life
A moment of chivalry nearly cost Northland father Vaughan Collier his life.
![Celebrity Treasure Island winner and comedian opens up about his friends, mum and his show](/pf/resources/images/placeholders/placeholder_l.png?d=815)
Celebrity Treasure Island winner and comedian opens up about his friends, mum and his show
He is keen to spend more time in the region.
![Looking for Treasure: How a popular Pātaua campsite became a sought-after gem](/pf/resources/images/placeholders/placeholder_l.png?d=815)
Looking for Treasure: How a popular Pātaua campsite became a sought-after gem
As Treasure Island's owner looks to move on, a new book captures the vast memories.
!['It’s like an adventure' Family sailing across the world embrace Whangārei life](/pf/resources/images/placeholders/placeholder_l.png?d=815)
'It’s like an adventure' Family sailing across the world embrace Whangārei life
The voyage has not been without its challenges.
!['They just bring joy to people':' Meet the man making a living out of blowing bubbles](/pf/resources/images/placeholders/placeholder_l.png?d=815)
'They just bring joy to people':' Meet the man making a living out of blowing bubbles
He has three Guinness World Records.
![It's not your average animal farm: Meet the couple building a unique paradise](/pf/resources/images/placeholders/placeholder_l.png?d=815)
It's not your average animal farm: Meet the couple building a unique paradise
The effort is worth it when the couple see looks of 'absolute delight and huge smiles'.
![One man's drive to help Whangārei’s homeless leads to world stage](/pf/resources/images/placeholders/placeholder_l.png?d=815)
One man's drive to help Whangārei’s homeless leads to world stage
Pehi is representing his country again.
!['I’ll be happy when...'Dr Libby returns to Whangārei to help us enhance quality of life](/pf/resources/images/placeholders/placeholder_l.png?d=815)
'I’ll be happy when...'Dr Libby returns to Whangārei to help us enhance quality of life
'I want to offer people ways to feel better when they might not know how.'
![Tiri shipwreck once the beating heart of Radio Hauraki](/pf/resources/images/placeholders/placeholder_l.png?d=815)
Tiri shipwreck once the beating heart of Radio Hauraki
The derelict remains of the floating pirate radio studio lie on Matakohe-Limestone Island.
![Northland’s tropical oasis a labour of love](/pf/resources/images/placeholders/placeholder_l.png?d=815)
Northland’s tropical oasis a labour of love
People travel from as far as Gisborne and Napier to buy the gourmet fruit.
![Celebrating Matariki with the Maramataka Queen](/pf/resources/images/placeholders/placeholder_l.png?d=815)
Celebrating Matariki with the Maramataka Queen
Maramataka’s revival, she believes, is due to people’s feelings of disconnect.
!['They are just boys that want to cook ' High school turns out top chef men](/pf/resources/images/placeholders/placeholder_l.png?d=815)
'They are just boys that want to cook ' High school turns out top chef men
"It's definitely a sign of the times that things are changing."
![Owner upbeat as new bar opens amid pandemic](/pf/resources/images/placeholders/placeholder_l.png?d=815)
Owner upbeat as new bar opens amid pandemic
'Something a bit different' is coming Whangārei's way with new bar AstroBoy
![Chance meeting on the street leads to altar](/pf/resources/images/placeholders/placeholder_l.png?d=815)
Chance meeting on the street leads to altar
The girl with the fiery red hair and the boy with a crush.
![Bream Head Scenic Reserve a success story as petrels bounce back](/pf/resources/images/placeholders/placeholder_l.png?d=815)
Bream Head Scenic Reserve a success story as petrels bounce back
It has been a successful year for reserve workers as grey-faced petrel chicks take flight.
![A love of dinosaurs unites two strangers across the ocean](/pf/resources/images/placeholders/placeholder_l.png?d=815)
A love of dinosaurs unites two strangers across the ocean
From overseas pen pals to married with children - a couple's story for Valentine's Day.
![Goodbye piggy bank, hello SquareOne, thanks to Northland dads](/pf/resources/images/placeholders/placeholder_l.png?d=815)
Goodbye piggy bank, hello SquareOne, thanks to Northland dads
Teaching kids to save money in a cashless world.
![Plenty to see and do this Waitangi weekend](/pf/resources/images/placeholders/placeholder_l.png?d=815)
Plenty to see and do this Waitangi weekend
Large events may have been cancelled but the Northland region offers many attractions.
![Events may be cancelled but there's still plenty to do around the region.](/pf/resources/images/placeholders/placeholder_l.png?d=815)
Events may be cancelled but there's still plenty to do around the region.
Let's be tourists in Whangārei!
![Business owner handing over the tools after 30 years](/pf/resources/images/placeholders/placeholder_l.png?d=815)
Business owner handing over the tools after 30 years
Respected outboard veteran relinquishes tools to capable hands.
![Self-directed geeky playground sought](/pf/resources/images/placeholders/placeholder_l.png?d=815)
Self-directed geeky playground sought
On the lookout for a space for geeks to hang out.
![Northlanders biggest fans of Trade Me](/pf/resources/images/placeholders/placeholder_l.png?d=815)
Northlanders biggest fans of Trade Me
Unwanted gifts most searched for category for Northlanders over holidays.
![Condensing life into caravan the way to go](/pf/resources/images/placeholders/placeholder_l.png?d=815)
Condensing life into caravan the way to go
Condensing life into caravan the way to go.
![Wheels and water and finding love: Meet the Whangārei Town Basin residents](/pf/resources/images/placeholders/placeholder_l.png?d=815)
Wheels and water and finding love: Meet the Whangārei Town Basin residents
A glimpse inside the lives of the Whangārei Town Basin marina residents.
![Northlanders in modern-day 'pipi shuffle'](/pf/resources/images/placeholders/placeholder_l.png?d=815)
Northlanders in modern-day 'pipi shuffle'
Northlanders share their tips on how to purge shellfish of annoying grit
![Families enjoying annual camping holiday at Treasure Island](/pf/resources/images/placeholders/placeholder_l.png?d=815)
Families enjoying annual camping holiday at Treasure Island
Aucklanders love our camping.
![Sea Eagle II's quiet return to the harbour causes stir](/pf/resources/images/placeholders/placeholder_l.png?d=815)
Sea Eagle II's quiet return to the harbour causes stir
Sea Eagle II a welcome sight from tops of mountains, aircraft and the harbour.
![Magical Poor Knights worth a visit this summer](/pf/resources/images/placeholders/placeholder_l.png?d=815)
Magical Poor Knights worth a visit this summer
The Islands were once home to 400 people.
![Meet the Town Basin marina residents](/pf/resources/images/placeholders/placeholder_l.png?d=815)
Meet the Town Basin marina residents
A glimpse inside the lives of the Whangārei Town Basin marina residents.
![Leopard seals' dinner menu stuns local expert](/pf/resources/images/placeholders/placeholder_l.png?d=815)
Leopard seals' dinner menu stuns local expert
Top predators predating on top predators
![Whangārei bus service dropped after year-long trial](/pf/resources/images/placeholders/placeholder_l.png?d=815)
Whangārei bus service dropped after year-long trial
Summer Beach Bus service doubling this year but long-term service is a no-go.
![Hospital staff find sustainable use for discarded socks.](/pf/resources/images/placeholders/placeholder_l.png?d=815)
Hospital staff find sustainable use for discarded socks.
Bright cheerful socks for Open Arms recipients
![''We want to put the joy back into families' Christmas lights trail proving popular](/pf/resources/images/placeholders/placeholder_l.png?d=815)
''We want to put the joy back into families' Christmas lights trail proving popular
Residents want to bring joy back to families after hard year.
![Community project to provide fun for Onerahi kids delayed](/pf/resources/images/placeholders/placeholder_l.png?d=815)
Community project to provide fun for Onerahi kids delayed
New Onerahi pontoon not likely before Christmas
![Northland properties lighting up for Christmas](/pf/resources/images/placeholders/placeholder_l.png?d=815)
Northland properties lighting up for Christmas
Residents jump on board the lights trail.
![How you can make this Christmas special for children](/pf/resources/images/placeholders/placeholder_l.png?d=815)
How you can make this Christmas special for children
Filling shoeboxes with goodies for needy children
![English lifeboat relaunches with new lease on life in Northland](/pf/resources/images/placeholders/placeholder_l.png?d=815)
English lifeboat relaunches with new lease on life in Northland
A boat built in England in 1980 and now refitted has a new lease on life.
![Influenza, RSV and Covid all expected next winter as borders reopen](/pf/resources/images/placeholders/placeholder_l.png?d=815)
Influenza, RSV and Covid all expected next winter as borders reopen
Leading epidemiologist concerned over return of influenza next year.
![Kiwi North's current exhibition exposes Northland WWII secrets](/pf/resources/images/placeholders/placeholder_l.png?d=815)
Kiwi North's current exhibition exposes Northland WWII secrets
Few Northlanders were aware of what happened on home turf during WWII until now.
![Remembering the heroic, gallant US soldiers who endeared themselves to Northlanders](/pf/resources/images/placeholders/placeholder_l.png?d=815)
Remembering the heroic, gallant US soldiers who endeared themselves to Northlanders
Northlander remembers when the "cruel, ruthless enemy" were on our doorstep.
![Northland Short story competition comes alive again](/pf/resources/images/placeholders/placeholder_l.png?d=815)
Northland Short story competition comes alive again
Writing community in New Zealand is in good heart.
![Waipū Welcomes You barn inspires unlikely friendship](/pf/resources/images/placeholders/placeholder_l.png?d=815)
Waipū Welcomes You barn inspires unlikely friendship
Art and friendship arise from the paddock
![Restaurant signifies first step of future Whangārei harbourside town centre](/pf/resources/images/placeholders/placeholder_l.png?d=815)
Restaurant signifies first step of future Whangārei harbourside town centre
Young Whangārei couple seize opportunity to bring harbourside dining to locals.
![Celebrated artist's designs can soon be worn on Northland feet](/pf/resources/images/placeholders/placeholder_l.png?d=815)
Celebrated artist's designs can soon be worn on Northland feet
Hundertwasser odd sock trend gains traction over 20 years later
![Shining a light on brain tumours](/pf/resources/images/placeholders/placeholder_l.png?d=815)
Shining a light on brain tumours
Brain Tumour Awareness Week sheds light on the biggest cancer killer among young people.
![Beware loose seal on Whangārei road](/pf/resources/images/placeholders/placeholder_l.png?d=815)
Beware loose seal on Whangārei road
Kekeno rescue mission a unique experience for locals.
!['For a long time I was too scared to speak': The stigma of Covid-19](/pf/resources/images/placeholders/placeholder_l.png?d=815)
'For a long time I was too scared to speak': The stigma of Covid-19
Twenty-eight Northlanders have contracted Covid-19 – here one of them shares her story.
![War only show-stopper of Whangārei A&P Show before Covid](/pf/resources/images/placeholders/placeholder_l.png?d=815)
War only show-stopper of Whangārei A&P Show before Covid
A&P Show organisers say they're cancelling the December event to keep tamariki safe.
![Northland still far from reaching 'traffic-light system'](/pf/resources/images/placeholders/placeholder_l.png?d=815)
Northland still far from reaching 'traffic-light system'
Northland businesses "elastic really stretched", says tourism leader.
![Six-month refit at Whangārei's Port Nikau comes to an end for Sea Eagle II](/pf/resources/images/placeholders/placeholder_l.png?d=815)
Six-month refit at Whangārei's Port Nikau comes to an end for Sea Eagle II
World's largest aluminium yacht leaves Whangārei after six months.
![Covid level uncertainty leads to further event cancellations](/pf/resources/images/placeholders/placeholder_l.png?d=815)
Covid level uncertainty leads to further event cancellations
The list of Whangārei events cancelled due to Covid uncertainty is growing
![Refresh for welcoming roadside site](/pf/resources/images/placeholders/placeholder_l.png?d=815)
Refresh for welcoming roadside site
Waipū artist takes on iconic roadside barn makeover.
![Cracka's maiden voyage a success](/pf/resources/images/placeholders/placeholder_l.png?d=815)
Cracka's maiden voyage a success
Whangārei man's 2020 lockdown shed project sees fruition
![World's largest vessels gracing Whangārei Harbour](/pf/resources/images/placeholders/placeholder_l.png?d=815)
World's largest vessels gracing Whangārei Harbour
"Gentle Giant" farewelled from Whangārei Harbour yesterday with volley of horns.
![Bay of Islands peninsula likened to original kiwi population](/pf/resources/images/placeholders/placeholder_l.png?d=815)
Bay of Islands peninsula likened to original kiwi population
Pest Free Purerua Project pays off.
!['I just want to see her again'](/pf/resources/images/placeholders/placeholder_l.png?d=815)
'I just want to see her again'
Border restrictions tough for granddaughter and grandmother kept apart.
![Plenty of options around Northland these school holidays](/pf/resources/images/placeholders/placeholder_l.png?d=815)
Plenty of options around Northland these school holidays
Locked in Northland? Never fear, there's plenty to do.
![Whangārei man takes action against anti-vax protesters](/pf/resources/images/placeholders/placeholder_l.png?d=815)
Whangārei man takes action against anti-vax protesters
Freedom, travel, friends and family among reasons locals are getting vaccinated.
![Witnesses encouraged to call 0800 number with orca sightings](/pf/resources/images/placeholders/placeholder_l.png?d=815)
Witnesses encouraged to call 0800 number with orca sightings
Orca sightings common for this time of year on the Whangārei Harbour.
![Divers target more than 2000 boat hulls to eradicate pests](/pf/resources/images/placeholders/placeholder_l.png?d=815)
Divers target more than 2000 boat hulls to eradicate pests
Programme to rid precious harbours of pests begins.
![Alien Weaponry's second album drops at midnight](/pf/resources/images/placeholders/placeholder_l.png?d=815)
Alien Weaponry's second album drops at midnight
Waipū band drop album tonight ahead of jetting off to perform internationally.
![A daughter's tribute to her beloved mother](/pf/resources/images/placeholders/placeholder_l.png?d=815)
A daughter's tribute to her beloved mother
"There's a dignity that my mum didn't get because of Covid."
![Juggling work with home schooling](/pf/resources/images/placeholders/placeholder_l.png?d=815)
Juggling work with home schooling
We take a look inside your bubbles to see how you're coping with the juggling act.
![Solo and first-time dads share their plans](/pf/resources/images/placeholders/placeholder_l.png?d=815)
Solo and first-time dads share their plans
Fishing, gaming, takeaways and snuggles by the fire on the cards for these loving dads.
![Which face mask is best? Students test them for project](/pf/resources/images/placeholders/placeholder_l.png?d=815)
Which face mask is best? Students test them for project
Students discover which face coverings are most effective to block the spread of bacteria.