Far North news in brief: Moerewa champion nominated, Fertility Awareness week

Moerewa community champion Roddy Hapati Pihema is among those nominated for the 2025 Kiwibank New Zealander of the Year Awards. Photo / NZME

Moerewa community champion Roddy Hapati Pihema is among those nominated for the 2025 Kiwibank New Zealander of the Year Awards. Nominations can be made in one or more of the seven categories by members of the public aged over 15 until August 24 at nzawards.org.nz. The awards honour individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the wellbeing of the country.

Save the date

Next Wednesday, August 20, from 5pm, the next Business After 5 is happening at Kiwi Carpentry’s workshop on Quarry Rd. Expect good food, with the BBQ fired up for roast lamb, plus breads and salads provided by generous local partners. You’ll also hear from more than 10 businesses, each sharing their Five Minutes of Fame. RSVP via the Kaitaia Business Association Facebook event or email admin@kba.nz. More info below.

Scholarship funding

Did you know that the Kaitaia Business Association supports local businesses that hire apprentices or trainees? Through the Apprenticeship/Trainee Scholarship, they provide funding to help cover training costs and essential tools. If your business is within the KBA Business Improvement District (BID) or an Associated Member, this scholarship could be the boost your business needs. It is worth up to $3000 to the recipient and so far, no applications have been received, so start applying. Applications close on October 31 at 5pm.

Fertility awareness week

Natural Fertility NZ (NFNZ) has launched the country’s first-ever Natural Fertility Awareness Week, a nationwide initiative to help Kiwis better understand their fertility and how fertility awareness can support them throughout their reproductive years. Daily topics will be shared on NFNZ’s Facebook page and website, along with a lolly jar competition to win a full set of fertility appointments. More info: www.naturalfertility.co.nz.

Navigate ageing

The Eldernet Group has just released a new edition of its Upper North Island version of Where From Here – He Ara Whakamua, a free guide to help older people and their whānau navigate ageing with confidence. Often called the “older person’s bible”, the guide includes updated listings of care homes, retirement villages, home support services, and kaumātua programmes from Auckland to the Far North. It also offers practical advice on choosing care, financial planning, and setting up an Enduring Power of Attorney. Copies are available at libraries, healthcare providers, and community hubs, or can be ordered online at www.eldernet.co.nzor by calling 0800 162 706.