Far North news in brief: Late-night shopping, Kiwibank opening and local heroes

There’ll be late-night shopping in Kaitāia tonight, with more than 20 businesses taking part, from 5pm until late.

Late-night shopping

Kaitāia Business Association has organised a late-night shopping event tonight for people to get in some early Christmas shopping, from 5pm until late. More than 20 retailers and food vendors are participating. There will also be kai stalls and live entertainment at the Town Square, and the Kaitāia volunteer fire brigade will also be parking up and putting their truck on display.

Ngāpuhi appointment

Horticulture New Zealand has appointed Ripeka Evans, a director of Tupu Tonu – the Ngāpuhi Investment Fund – as an independent board member. Evans, of Ngāpuhi, Ngāti Kahu, Te Aupōuri and Ngāti Porou descent, has more than 40 years of governance experience across media, infrastructure, primary industries and Māori development.

Kiwibank opening

The re-established branch of Kiwibank in Kaitāia will be formally opened in a ceremony tomorrow. The branch, at 104 Commerce St, will be formally opened by Minister of Regional Development and Associate Finance Minister Shane Jones.

Nominate local heroes

Do you know an unsung hero who has gone above and beyond for their community? Time is running out to nominate local heroes for the Far North District Council’s Te Tohu Tutuki – Lifetime Achievement Award, recognising those who are dedicated to their communities. The council has extended the nomination period until tomorrow, Friday. Every nomination helps recognise the local champions in our communities. Find out more by visiting the Lifetime Achievement Award Nominations page on the council website www.fndc.govt.nz/district/Volunteer-nominations.

Business visa

Applications are open for the Government’s new Business Investor Visa, designed to attract experienced investors to grow established New Zealand businesses. Options include investing $1 million for a three-year work-to-residence pathway or $2m for a 12-month fast track to residence. Immigration Minister Erica Stanford says the visa will strengthen businesses, create jobs and bring in valuable skills. It follows the Active Investor Plus visa, which has already drawn 440 applications and $2.63 billion in potential investment.