Local Stories

Meet Josh Tatu, the proud owner and operator of the Legit Burger Company food trailer here in the Far North. Selling a range of burgers with low-carb options, also salads and desserts—all of which he preps at the beginning of each day before service.

Kia ora and welcome to Five on the Fly, where we sit down with local business people to hear their stories, challenges and hopes for Te Hiku. In five quick questions, we get to know the person behind the business, what drives them and what they hope for the future of our region. Interviewee - Ashleigh Manukau-McEwan 1. Tell us about yourself Hey, my name is Ashleigh Manukau-McEwan and I am spoilt in my life. I have my dogs, who are like my best friends. I have a great soon-to-be husband, who is just as spontaneous as I am and I love travelling. My career in broadcasting has taken me all over the world, but nothing quite beats the paradise of living in the Far North. I am more landlocked nowadays with gardens, chickens and dogs and in my spare time I really enjoy making websites for other small businesses. That, and hanging out with my family. Although I grew up in Mangonui, I’ve lived away from home for the last 15 years, so it’s incredible to be able to drive up the road to make a sandwich using my parents $15 spreadable butter.

This story comes from guest writer Tyrone Biddle of P&P Flooring Ltd.

In Te Hiku, support doesn’t always come with a big announcement or a media release. It is given unconditionally. Often, it looks like a box of sausages for a fundraiser, donated goods for a school event, time volunteered at a local kura, or a quiet donation to help a sports team buy new jerseys. It’s practical, thoughtful, and deeply local.

There’s something about watching grown adults cry into baby wipes that really brings a community together. I arrived just after 5pm at the Waipapakauri Hotel garden bar, and the place was buzzing. The sun was out, the energy was high, and the kids' sour lolly competition was already underway. Dozens of tamariki, faces set with determination, hands planted firmly on the table, powering through round after round of lip-puckering lollies. It felt like watching a mini army of sugar warriors. I swear, some of these kids had trained for this moment. As I stood there, surrounded by whānau cheering and laughing, I had a feeling: we were witnessing the next generation of chilli comp legends in the making.

Every year, the Snapper Bonanza transforms Ninety Mile Beach into more than just a fishing competition, it’s a annual event that strengthens local businesses, supports local initiatives, and brings whānau and friends together. While the Snapper Bonanza is the biggest surfcasting competition in the world, those who take part know it’s about far more than the prizes. It’s about tradition, connection, the thrill of the chase, and the shared passion for fishing, all made possible by the strong sense of community that surrounds the event.