Storms a reminder of challenges but positive things in store for 2026 – Whangārei Mayor Ken Couper

Whangārei deputy mayor Scott McKenzie, left, Mayor Ken Couper and acting Northland group recovery manager Richard Ball check out the damage at Ōakura. Photo / Denise Piper

Last week was a stark reminder of the challenges our district can face. The severe weather and subsequent state of emergency in Whangārei have tested our community, our infrastructure, and our resilience.

I want to acknowledge the enormous effort of the emergency teams, marae, contractors, community groups, and volunteers who have supported response efforts.

Communities have rallied together to help each other through, and the grit and determination of those most affected have been clear to see. With the weather challenges now behind us, clean-up and recovery are the focus as we work through immediate and longer-term solutions for affected communities.

While not the start to 2026 any of us wanted, it has been a powerful example of the role local government plays in everyday lives.

Over the past few months, it’s been easy to get swept up in big-picture thinking as we navigate a raft of Government-led reforms, including changes to water, RMA (Resource Management Act) and the wider local government sector.

We are fully engaged in these processes, yet our commitment to “business as usual” hasn’t wavered. First and foremost, we are here to serve our community, through both good times and bad.

One of the most visible projects for 2026 will be the Springs Flat roundabout. This long-awaited safety upgrade is progressing well, with the next stage of construction due to start this week.

As well as providing a safe connection across the highway, the project will also open up opportunities for increased future housing supply and a new supermarket development.

Another major milestone this year will be the reopening of our Old Municipal Building. After a careful and thoughtful restoration, this heritage building will once again take pride of place on Bank St.

It has been a long journey, with insurance delays and Covid-related construction challenges testing our patience, but the scaffolding is now down, and I’m looking forward to seeing the building in use again.

The Mayoral Taskforce on Central City Revitalisation is also gaining traction, with invitations now out to key stakeholders.

This group, bringing together local business leaders, community representatives, and government agencies, will help shape a safer, more vibrant, and more resilient city centre. This is a collaborative effort, and I look forward to sharing more as the group’s recommendations take shape.

And for those who are keen on the outdoors, progress continues on the Waipū Cycleway. The project has been planned and put to tender. We should have clarity around further progress by the end of February.

There’s a great deal ahead of us in 2026. Despite the national reform landscape, and the challenges of last week’s storms, our focus remains clear: supporting our community, strengthening our resilience, and delivering for Whangārei.