From Napier Aquatic Centre upgrade, to election and honours at Ngāti Kahungunu, to an Aviation Day at the airport, to plea to ‘shop local’, here are some noteworthy announcements you might have missed.

Napier Aquatic Centre upgrade progress

Work at Napier Aquatic Centre is on its final stretch, with some temporary disruption affecting customers.

Since May last year, the Aquatic Centre has been undergoing a significant maintenance and refurbishment programme to ensure the health, safety and wellbeing of pool users and staff.

Napier Mayor Kirsten Wise says: “This upgrade will see us through for the next eight to ten years. Napier Aquatic Centre will continue to be a place for people to get fit, families to enjoy and babies and toddlers to make their first splash in learn-to-swim classes.”

From Monday 10 February, the Ivan Wilson side of the complex will be closed, along with the outdoor area and splash pad. The Old Pool will be open, but with limited lane-swimming space available for public and no water-play space available until all works are completed in late April.

The partial closure will allow an upgrade to flooring, installation of a new heat pump, improvement to the reception area, repair of the roof and guttering and an upgrade to indoor and outdoor seating and accessibility.

“We apologise for the disruption and are working as quickly as we can to get things completed by the end of April,” says Mayor Wise.

Aqua Fit will continue in a limited capacity in the Old Pool on Tuesdays and Thursdays. HIIT Squad continues as normal.

More information can be found on Napier Aquatic Centre’s website. 

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NKII election and champions

Ngāti Kahungunu Iwi Incorporated (NKII) Board Elections take place this year, which means Bayden Barber, completing his first 3-year term as NKII Chair, must stand for re-election, as well as nine other seats being filled.

Nominations are now open, and close on 28 February. On 4 March a public notice will announce the candidates. On the 24 March voting papers will be posted to all registered iwi members who are eligible to vote. 

All registered participants must be Nga Uri a Kahungunu – descendants of Kahungunu, 18 years of age or over at the time of the election which is 24 April 2025.

More information on the election process here.

Champions

In the meantime, NKII recently recognised eight Kahungunu Iwi Champions, individuals with outstanding service to the Māori community.

The Awardees were: David Tipene-Leach, Te Korou Whangataua, Mereana Pitman, Evelyn Ratima, Marei Apatu, Ngatai Huata, Hayden Hape, and the Wairoa Taiwhenua Tai-Awhi Alternative Education Programme.

Details on these impressive Awardees are here.

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Napier Aviation Day

The Napier Aero Club is hosting an aviation industry day Friday 14 February for any Year 11 students (and above) interested in learning about aircraft and aviation careers. The aviation industry is struggling to attract people to the industry, so the Aero Club is taking the initiative, supported by Hawke’s Bay Airport, to attract people to find out more about the range of roles available.

Maretta Seumanutafa from Napier Aero Club says the industry day is a chance for students with an interest in aircraft and aviation to come along and talk to people who are working in the industry.

“We want to inspire, excite, and enable all those with an interest in aviation to pursue a career within the industry in a role they feel suits them.

“There is much more to aviation than being a commercial pilot or a flight steward. There is a huge range of roles available, and we want to show there are multiple pathways for a range of skills and trades for people who are interested.

“At our industry day students will be able to chat to business owners, aviation trades and people in associated ground support roles, enabling a connection to the ‘real’ face of aviation.”

Judi Godbold, Manager Marketing and Business Growth, Hawke’s Bay Airport, adds: “The general aviation community is a really important part of Hawke’s Bay Airport, and for that community to thrive it needs to be able to attract people to the many roles that are available.

“So whether you want to work with fixed wing aircraft or helicopters, be an aviation mechanic, work on avionics, train people to fly, be involved with top dressing supporting our agricultural community, or fly yourself, there is a huge range of careers and ways to be involved.

What: Hawke’s Bay Aviation Industry Day

Where: Napier Aero Club, Watchman Road, Hawke’s Bay Airport.

When:  11:00am to 2:00pm, Friday 14 February

Who can attend: Year 11 students and above with an interest in aviation careers

Contact: Maretta Seumanutafa, Napier Aero Club

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A plea to shop local

Arlene Dalzell, at Napier City Business Inc, urges shoppers to spend local, not online.

“In December 2024 alone, Napier residents spent a staggering $42.2 million on online shopping – money that largely left our local economy, reducing the financial viability of Napier as a shopping destination. This shift doesn’t just affect retailers; it impacts local jobs, wages, and the city’s overall vibrancy. Every dollar spent online with a non-local retailer is a missed opportunity to reinvest in Napier’s growth and sustainability.

“When you choose to shop locally, the impact is far-reaching. Every dollar spent at a local business generates more economic activity within the community than spending at a large chain or online retailer. Local businesses tend to reinvest their earnings back into the community, whether through employing local staff, sourcing local products, or contributing to local causes and events.

“Take the example of Chantal Shop Napier, a business that not only offers organic and sustainable products but also sources goods from local growers and producers. By prioritising local suppliers, they support Hawke’s Bay’s agricultural sector, creating a ripple effect that sustains multiple layers of the local economy.

“Roam Hawke’s Bay is one of many cafés championing seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. Committed to sustainable dining, Roam supports local suppliers while crafting flavour-packed menus that showcase the best of Hawke’s Bay.

“Local businesses are significant employers in Napier. From retail staff to baristas, every purchase helps create and sustain jobs in the city.

“Businesses like the Cranford Hospice Op Shop Napier illustrate how local shopping can extend its impact beyond just economic growth. By supporting this local second-hand store, shoppers contribute to a cause that directly benefits hospice care and support services across the region.

Local businesses band together and collaborate for events, offering special deals, hosting pop-ups, and extending hours to enhance the experience for locals and visitors alike. These collaborative efforts amplify the vibrancy of Napier, attracting people to shop, dine, and play.

“Here are a few simple ways you can make a difference:

• Shop small: Choose local retailers for your everyday needs.
• Spread the word: Share your favorite local spots on social media or leave glowing reviews.
• Attend events: Participate in city-wide initiatives and festivals to show your support.
• Gift locally: Purchase gifts or vouchers from local businesses for special occasions.
  
  “Shopping locally is more than a transaction; it’s an investment in Napier’s future.”