Far North news briefs: Angling boosts economy and wellbeing, register your pet

Storm found her forever home through the Far North District Council's adopt a dog programme and is now the star of the council's new dog registration push. Photo / FNDC

Buy a Brick

Locals are invited to leave their mark while supporting the Karikari Community Hall by purchasing a personalised brick for $50. The bricks will be engraved with your name and displayed inside the hall. To order, contact Barbara on 021 186 4442. New bricks are already in place – pop in to have a look.

Angling boosts economy and wellbeing

Freshwater angling is not only popular among Kiwis and international visitors but a major contributor to New Zealand’s economy and public wellbeing, according to new research. The independent report by NZIER, commissioned by Fish & Game New Zealand, estimates that Fish & Game licence holders – both domestic and international – spend a total of between $113 million and $139m annually on their angling trips. This spending contributes $66m-$81m to New Zealand’s GDP and supports as many as 1168 jobs across the country. Beyond the economic impacts, the report highlights that angling enhances self-reflection, reduces stress, and fosters deep connections to nature, family and friends.

Register your pet

Rescue pup Storm is launching the council’s latest dog registration campaign this week with her mum Jody and her new favourite toy, the kiwi frisbee! The campaign is designed to raise awareness that dog owners are legally required to register their dogs throughout the year—and if they do between July 1 and August 31, they will pay the cheapest rates and be in to win one of 10 prize packs. Dog registration fees can be paid all year round and dog owners are legally required to register their dogs for the year. For registration forms, to pay online or for more information, visit our Register-your-dog webpage.

Funding approvals

Funding approvals by the Bay of Islands-Whangaroa and Te Hiku Community Boards at their meetings in June are set to improve safety at local sports hubs and environmental initiatives. The board allocated more than $45,000 to multiple groups. Te Hiku Sports Hub received $19,769 for safety improvements. Houhora Big Game and Sports Fishing Club had funding of $15,697 approved to help stabilise slow-moving ground slips near the club toilets. A local charitable trust called WithIN NATURE – Whakapakari Whenua was granted $10,000 in funding to continue mentoring Māori rangatahi about environmental restoration and land-based education grounded in te ao Māori.