/rss/south-auckland-news/ Mon, 01 Jan 0001 00:00:00 EST Mon, 06 Jul 2026 08:32:04 EST en Umbraco http://ourauckland-prod-pub.azurewebsites.net/news/2026/06/5-ways-your-voices-have-helped-make-otara-papatoetoe-a-better-place/ What if one plan could help shape the future of the places, programmes and projects you care about most? From youth and senior programmes, community events and local grants to parks, playgrounds, environmental initiatives loved by school kids, libraries,... Wed, 01 Jul 2026 00:00:00 EST http://ourauckland-prod-pub.azurewebsites.net/news/2026/06/6-ways-your-voices-help-create-the-places-and-spaces-that-make-mangere-otahuhu-home/ The places we gather, the programmes we take part in, the parks we enjoy and the projects we see taking shape all start with what our community values most, and support from the Local Board. Our three-year Local Board Plan 2026 for Māngere-Ōtāhūhu will... Wed, 01 Jul 2026 00:00:00 EST http://ourauckland-prod-pub.azurewebsites.net/news/2026/06/even-superheroes-need-great-community-spaces/ What if the places you love in your neighbourhood were shaped by you? From playgrounds and parks to local events, environmental work and community facilities, what happens in Howick is shaped by community priorities and Local Board decisions. The... Wed, 01 Jul 2026 00:00:00 EST http://ourauckland-prod-pub.azurewebsites.net/news/2026/06/jurassic-levels-of-youth-spirit/ From environmental action and volunteering through to leadership, community service and everyday acts of kindness, young people across the Howick area are continuing to make a real difference in their communities. Now, those efforts are being recognised... Fri, 12 Jun 2026 09:34:20 EST http://ourauckland-prod-pub.azurewebsites.net/news/2026/06/kicking-the-can/ This year’s Annual Plan 2026/2027 has been agreed by the council’s Governing Body and will come into effect on 1 July.  This year’s budget includes:  A 7.9 per cent rates rise helps maintain essential services and infrastructure, while keeping... Thu, 11 Jun 2026 00:00:00 EST http://ourauckland-prod-pub.azurewebsites.net/news/2026/06/marae-across-south-auckland-continue-to-strengthen-community-life/ Marae across South Auckland continue to be strengthened through Auckland Council funding, supporting them as places of culture, connection and everyday community support. In Māngere-Ōtāhuhu, Ngā Whare Waatea, Pukaki, Makaurau and Papatuanuku Kōkiri Marae... Tue, 09 Jun 2026 14:00:25 EST http://ourauckland-prod-pub.azurewebsites.net/news/2026/05/face-to-face-with-nature/ At Kohuora Park, learning came alive - sometimes landing right on your face. Over four lively days, teachers, students, scientists and whānau (family) came together at the end of March with one shared purpose: to care for their environment while learning... Thu, 07 May 2026 14:47:16 EST http://ourauckland-prod-pub.azurewebsites.net/news/2026/05/fresh-play-space-at-raewyn-reserve/ Raewyn Reserve playground in Pakūranga has been given a new lease on life, transforming into a safe, welcoming space for local families to enjoy. What was once a tired and overlooked play area is now a refreshed community spot designed for everyday use. Thu, 07 May 2026 14:39:58 EST http://ourauckland-prod-pub.azurewebsites.net/news/2026/04/walter-massey-park/ Walter Massey Park has officially been transformed, giving the local club - the Māngere East Hawks, and the wider community a facility to be proud of. The completed upgrades to the rugby league fields represent a major investment in local sport and... Thu, 30 Apr 2026 16:18:58 EST http://ourauckland-prod-pub.azurewebsites.net/news/2026/04/walter-massey-park-from-old-to-bold/ At the heart of Māngere East, Walter Massey Park continues to be one of the area’s key community spaces - home to sports clubs, community organisations, and everyday recreation for local whānau / family. The space has been made even better with a new... Tue, 28 Apr 2026 11:15:43 EST http://ourauckland-prod-pub.azurewebsites.net/news/2026/04/highland-park-community-house-to-temporarily-close-for-essential-upgrades/ A valued local hub in east Auckland is now undergoing important upgrades to ensure it remains safe, accessible and fit for the future. Highland Park Community House is temporarily closed from 1 April to 10 July 2026 while essential renewal works are... Wed, 22 Apr 2026 16:50:08 EST http://ourauckland-prod-pub.azurewebsites.net/news/2026/04/ti-rakau-park/ Better, more welcoming public spaces are now in place at Ti Rākau Park in Pakūranga, following upgrades to the changing rooms and toilets by the Howick Local Board. What initially appeared to be a straightforward renewal quickly revealed several hidden... Wed, 15 Apr 2026 14:21:31 EST http://ourauckland-prod-pub.azurewebsites.net/news/2026/04/good-vibes-after-school-at-rangatahi-piki-ake/ A new youth-focused initiative is creating more opportunities for rangtahi / youth across Māngere-Ōtāhuhu and Ōtara-Papatoetoe to connect, stay active, and feel a sense of belonging. Rangatahi Piki Ake is a free drop-in pilot programme for 13-18 years... Wed, 15 Apr 2026 11:33:20 EST http://ourauckland-prod-pub.azurewebsites.net/news/2026/03/4-ward-thinking-4-ways-the-local-board-makes-green-happen/ In Māngere-Ōtāhuhu, caring for the whenua (land) and te taiao (environment) is part of who we are. This reflects what locals told the Māngere-Ōtāhuhu Local Board is important, protecting our natural environment, strengthening partnerships with mana whenua... Tue, 07 Apr 2026 15:14:40 EST http://ourauckland-prod-pub.azurewebsites.net/news/2026/03/four-ways-the-otara-papatoetoe-local-board-delivers-on-sustainability/ With the cost of living rising and climate change top of mind for many residents, communities across Ōtara-Papatoetoe are finding practical solutions close to home. Passionate locals are transforming patches of land into māra kai or community gardens that... Tue, 07 Apr 2026 15:14:21 EST http://ourauckland-prod-pub.azurewebsites.net/news/2026/03/april-school-holidays/ Looking for holiday activities the whole whānau can enjoy? From deep-sea discoveries to farm escapades and everything in between, here’s the top 10 ways to keep everyone entertained, active and inspired across Auckland these school holidays.   1.... Wed, 01 Apr 2026 16:40:47 EST http://ourauckland-prod-pub.azurewebsites.net/news/2026/03/four-a-greener-future/ What if caring for the environment was something every Howick neighbourhood could be proud of? From the sandy shores of Howick Beach and lush bush corridors at Bucklands Beach, to wetlands in Flat Bush and the Tāmaki Estuary, Howick is known for its mix... Wed, 01 Apr 2026 00:00:00 EST http://ourauckland-prod-pub.azurewebsites.net/news/2026/03/celebrating-korean-culture-in-otara/ Saehae bok mani badeuseyo - please receive lots of good fortune in the New Year. The spirit of community and culture was on full display at Te Puke ō Tara Community Centre as residents gathered to celebrate Seollal - Korean Lunar New Year. Hosted by the... Mon, 16 Mar 2026 09:32:32 EST http://ourauckland-prod-pub.azurewebsites.net/news/2026/03/new-moves-in-otahuhu/ Fairburn Park in Ōtāhuhu now has a new volleyball court for fun, fitness, and community play. A blessing ceremony on 27 February marked the official opening, celebrating this new space. The court responds to growing demand for accessible and informal... Thu, 12 Mar 2026 15:58:31 EST http://ourauckland-prod-pub.azurewebsites.net/news/2026/01/howick-library-temporary-closure-and-pop-up-service/ Howick Library and the adjacent Fencible Lounge will close for a major renewal from February, with temporary services in place to keep the community connected while improvements are made. The renewal work, approved by the Howick Local Board, has an... Mon, 09 Mar 2026 16:35:13 EST http://ourauckland-prod-pub.azurewebsites.net/news/2026/02/serving-up-something-special/ Howick’s biggest bite of culture returns in 2026! Get ready to taste the world right here in Howick Village. The Cultural Food Festival 2026 is back – Saturday 7 March 2026, 9am – 2:30pm. Delivered by Howick Village Association and proudly supported by... Fri, 20 Feb 2026 11:26:52 EST http://ourauckland-prod-pub.azurewebsites.net/news/2026/02/speak-up-for-three/ The Ōtara-Papatoetoe Local Board is inviting the community to share ideas for upgrades for three Papatoetoe neighbourhood playgrounds: Rangitoto Park, Maxwell Park, and Motatau Park. The consultation runs from 28 January to 23 February 2026. Your children... Thu, 05 Feb 2026 11:08:55 EST http://ourauckland-prod-pub.azurewebsites.net/news/2026/01/many-cultures/ A festival for the community, by the community – all welcome! The Diversity Festival returns on Saturday 11 April 2025, celebrating the rich cultural tapestry of South Auckland. This free, family-friendly event takes place at the Due Drop Events Centre in... Tue, 03 Feb 2026 16:32:41 EST http://ourauckland-prod-pub.azurewebsites.net/news/2026/01/superhero-approval-for-kimpton-park-playground/ “Kimpton Park is amazing and looks great” - a sentiment shared by many local families now enjoying the newly upgraded playground at Toetoe-nui / Kimpton Park in Papatoetoe. Papatoetoe families are buzzing with excitement as the renewed playground at... Mon, 02 Feb 2026 11:14:49 EST http://ourauckland-prod-pub.azurewebsites.net/news/2026/01/a-fresh-facelift-for-nga-puna-cyclamen-park/ Ngā Puna / Cyclamen Park in Māngere, named after the area’s sacred springs, has been upgraded following community feedback. The name Ngā Puna, meaning “springs,” reflects the natural freshwater springs in the Pūkaki area. Today, it is a vibrant, modern... Mon, 02 Feb 2026 10:53:40 EST http://ourauckland-prod-pub.azurewebsites.net/news/2026/01/the-landing/ In Māngere-Ōtāhuhu, memories don’t fade - they are cherished, celebrated, and now framed for generations to come. At Ngā Tohu o Uenuku / Māngere Arts Centre, that was perfectly demonstrated through an exhibition that transformed local stories into living... Thu, 29 Jan 2026 14:16:58 EST http://ourauckland-prod-pub.azurewebsites.net/news/2026/01/out-with-the-old/ It’s easy to walk past the playground at Raewyn Place Esplanade Reserve in Pakūranga and think it’s tired and forgotten - but that’s about to change, with a fresh, fun makeover on the way. From Monday 9 February 2026, work will begin on upgrading the... Thu, 29 Jan 2026 13:51:32 EST http://ourauckland-prod-pub.azurewebsites.net/news/2026/01/making-moves-with-local-grants/ Don't miss out! Local grant round two open 12 January to 20 February 2026, for projects starting after 1 May 2026. Apply on the main Auckland Council website.   Got a great project for your community? The Māngere-Ōtāhuhu Local Board is... Thu, 22 Jan 2026 14:13:39 EST http://ourauckland-prod-pub.azurewebsites.net/news/2025/12/4-ways-to-come-out-and-play/ Hello, summer! Whether it’s adventure, fun, or just a reason to enjoy the outdoors, all these activities or spaces are supported or funded by the Māngere-Ōtāhuhu Local Board, so you can make the most of summer the local way!  1. Find your game!   Mon, 19 Jan 2026 10:46:58 EST http://ourauckland-prod-pub.azurewebsites.net/news/2025/12/make-the-most-and-soak-up-summer/ Chasing fresh air, free fun, or a chill spot with whānau/family or friends? Your neighbourhood is full of ways to enjoy time together.   With free events, local talent, and some of the best play spaces, funded and supported by Ōtara-Papatoetoe Local... Mon, 19 Jan 2026 09:41:14 EST http://ourauckland-prod-pub.azurewebsites.net/news/2025/12/family-fun-and-summer-adventures-in-howick/ Want to stay local and make the most of summer? Howick Local Board has got you covered, investing in free activities and great things to see and do.  So, hit the local trails, take part in free Out & About activities,... Mon, 19 Jan 2026 09:40:30 EST http://ourauckland-prod-pub.azurewebsites.net/news/2025/12/nominations-open-for-papatoetoe-subdivision-new-election/ Nominations are open for candidates in the new election. There are four seats to be filled and nominations are open until midday, Wednesday 28 January 2026. Wed, 31 Dec 2025 11:18:30 EST http://ourauckland-prod-pub.azurewebsites.net/news/2025/12/otara-papatoetoe-local-board-election/ District Court decision and next steps for the local board. Tue, 16 Dec 2025 15:02:40 EST http://ourauckland-prod-pub.azurewebsites.net/news/2025/11/15th-anniversary-of-auckland-council-south-local-boards/ Auckland Council is 15 years old this month and to celebrate we’ve put together a selection of key local achievements, projects and upgrades that have grown and benefited communities across the region.  Local boards... Fri, 12 Dec 2025 11:00:09 EST http://ourauckland-prod-pub.azurewebsites.net/news/2025/12/inside-the-park-upgrade-that-s-transforming-barry-curtis-park/ Barry Curtis Park, in Auckland’s rapidly growing Flat Bush, is one of New Zealand’s largest urban parks. Thanks to a major upgrade from the Howick Local Board, the park is now more welcoming, functional, and vibrant than ever. The park’s wetlands continue... Wed, 03 Dec 2025 13:04:50 EST http://ourauckland-prod-pub.azurewebsites.net/news/2025/11/three-times-the-fun/ Have your say from 5 November - 3 December 2025. (1.) Wai-huuhi/Mervan Street Reserve, Māngere East, (2.) Purata Park, Māngere Bridge and (3.) Kāmaka Park, Māngere Bridge.   Take part online Let the tamariki lead the way! The Māngere-Ōtāhuhu Local... Mon, 24 Nov 2025 09:49:51 EST http://ourauckland-prod-pub.azurewebsites.net/news/2025/11/a-new-view-of-mayfield-park/ Basketball court: a half basketball court perfect for tamariki/children, rangatahi/youth, or grown-ups who love to ball Volleyball court: (you’ll need your own net/ball) ideal for casual games or full-blown showdowns New smooth looped pathways: alongside... Mon, 03 Nov 2025 11:17:23 EST http://ourauckland-prod-pub.azurewebsites.net/news/2025/10/howick-s-night-of-sporting-glory/ Awards night The Local Board provides funding to purchase awards, provide a guest speaker, and cover the administration and catering costs.  Howick Pak Hockey shared on their Facebook after winning Club of the Year, “This incredible recognition is a... Thu, 23 Oct 2025 12:37:22 EST http://ourauckland-prod-pub.azurewebsites.net/news/2025/10/lights-laughter-and-cheer/ Alongside a delightful array of local talent, food trucks will keep everyone fuelled - from hotdogs to chips, hamburgers, coffee and more. Let's stay connected Be sure to sign up to receive the Howick Local Board monthly e-newsletters. Thu, 09 Oct 2025 11:07:13 EST http://ourauckland-prod-pub.azurewebsites.net/news/2025/10/this-or-that/ Everyone knows Kohuora Park, it’s the place for sports games, walks, birthdays, outings and explorations. Now, with a $300,000 funding from the Ōtara-Papatoetoe Local Board, the playground’s getting a long-overdue upgrade, and the local board want to hear... Thu, 02 Oct 2025 13:03:47 EST http://ourauckland-prod-pub.azurewebsites.net/news/2025/09/councillor-angela-dalton-valedictory/ Two days of intense debate and tough decisions brought Auckland Council’s 2022-2025 Governing Body term to a close, ending with the valedictory speeches of three councillors standing down after nearly 70 years of service between them. This is part one in... Thu, 25 Sep 2025 00:00:00 EST http://ourauckland-prod-pub.azurewebsites.net/news/2025/09/councillor-sharon-stewart-valedictory-speech/ Two days of intense debate and tough decisions brought Auckland Council’s 2022-2025 Governing Body term to a close, ending with the valedictory speeches of three councillors standing down after nearly 70 years of service between them. This is part three... Thu, 25 Sep 2025 00:00:00 EST http://ourauckland-prod-pub.azurewebsites.net/news/2025/09/new-energy-for-otahuhu/ Ōtāhuhu’s town centre is set for a refresh, thanks to funding secured through Auckland Council’s Fix and Finish fund. The Māngere-Ōtāhuhu Local Board advocated for the streetscape project and received $1.5 million. Thirteen eligible local boards submitted... Tue, 23 Sep 2025 10:29:48 EST http://ourauckland-prod-pub.azurewebsites.net/news/2025/09/ostrich-farm-sports-fields-gain-ground/ The Flat Bush community is one step closer to a vibrant new green space. A $1.1 million boost from Auckland Council’s Fix and Finish Fund is helping move plans forward to transform Ostrich Farm into a fully equipped sports field park. Behind the... Tue, 23 Sep 2025 10:26:48 EST http://ourauckland-prod-pub.azurewebsites.net/news/2025/07/otahuhu-s-hub/ There’s a reason the Otāhuhu Town Hall Community Centre (OTHCC) holds a special place in people’s hearts, because it’s always been more than just a building. It’s where generations have gathered, kids have laughed after school, families have come together... Thu, 24 Jul 2025 10:56:57 EST http://ourauckland-prod-pub.azurewebsites.net/news/2025/07/read-all-about-it-flatbush/ KEY DETAILS: $489,000 has been allocated towards a temporary library for the first six months of operation It will be located inside the Ormiston Town Centre, near the food court (240 Ormiston Road, Flat Bush) The library will offer key services like... Tue, 22 Jul 2025 00:00:00 EST http://ourauckland-prod-pub.azurewebsites.net/news/2025/07/welcoming-communities-accreditation-for-otara-papatoetoe/ Acknowledgement of the important mahi the local boards do to create an inclusive and supportive environment for new community members. Ōtara-Papatoetoe joins the Kaipātiki, Whau and Albert-Eden and Puketāpapa Local Boards in receiving the... Mon, 21 Jul 2025 14:20:48 EST http://ourauckland-prod-pub.azurewebsites.net/news/2025/07/can-we-get-a-chee-hoo/ Round one of the Ōtara-Papatoetoe Local Board grants is open for projects over $2,000, with a new minimum grant of $500. Apply by 8 August 2025. Local grants and Excellence Awards are open, individuals and groups can apply now. It’s no secret... Thu, 10 Jul 2025 14:17:43 EST http://ourauckland-prod-pub.azurewebsites.net/news/2025/07/what-s-on-your-plate/ Applications are open for the Māngere-Ōtāhuhu local grant from now until 1 August 2025 for projects starting after 1 October 2025. No set limit on how much funding you can apply for. The local board will consider each application and decide how much... Thu, 10 Jul 2025 14:12:36 EST http://ourauckland-prod-pub.azurewebsites.net/news/2025/07/double-the-local/ A new community-led initiative is bringing movement, music, and mana (power) back to the heart of Ōtara, this time, with seniors at the centre. Three times a week, the Ōtara Town Centre will come alive with free, fun group exercise sessions, designed... Thu, 10 Jul 2025 14:04:31 EST