Travel has shaped who Rachel Williams is, and now she has the privilege of watching it shape others. From life lessons to the inspiration for her business, this is how travel made Rachel a better human and eventually landed her in Warkworth with her husband and two children.

Based on Wellington author Carl Shuker’s critically acclaimed novel, director Christine Jeffs brings A Mistake to life on the big screen. This gripping and emotive film beautifully explores the fine line between human error and accountability, leaving audiences questioning their own perceptions. Junction sat down with Christine Jeffs for an exclusive look behind the lens.

Local marine advocates and educators, Steve and Riley Hathaway of Young Ocean Explorers, recently teamed up with Paul Nicklen, co-founder of SeaLegacy, a global movement to save the ocean. Starring in an episode of ‘A Sea of Hope’ they highlight the natural beauty and current risks to New Zealand’s oceans. We caught up with Steve to learn more.

Arriving in New Zealand last November, Head of Athletic Performance at Blues Rugby, Mark Bennett has made Puhoi his home. Together with his wife Helen, they are enjoying the village life after years of adventure following Mark’s career.

At 73 years old, retired dairy farmer John Gluckman, has led a life filled with extraordinary adventures and remarkable achievements, running marathons on all seven continents and climbing the Seven Summits.

Learn more about Rocket Lab’s operations, its pioneering role in the small launch industry, and the exciting developments at their new Warkworth facility from Rocket Lab spokesperson Murielle Baker.

As a child, Michele Clarke juggled raising a duckling in Auckland’s suburbia with saving insects from spider webs, foreshadowing what her future would hold.

Recognisable community member and owner of Matakana Cinemas, Dan Paine, is a creative-minded person, and for years has combined his love of music and film as both a cinema owner and talented DJ.

Setting her sights on the global stage of freestyle and freeride skiing, at just 13 years old, Michaela Bridgens has already amassed an impressive array of achievements and experiences that belie her age.

Pancreatic cancer, often referred to as the ‘silent killer’ is one of New Zealand's least talked about and most deadly cancers. With symptoms that are difficult to diagnose and less than 12% of patients surviving for more than five years after diagnosis, the need for awareness and early detection is critical.

Meet the passionate duo behind Sustainable Kaipara, who you’ll likely find digging freshly made compost or with whiteboard markers in hand while planning the next moves for their community organisation.

In the tranquil landscapes of our local community lies a hidden gem, Morris & James Pottery, a Matakana institution established in 1977.

Recently launched tech company, Ahiko, offers New Zealanders guidance and perspective on usage and price data transparency problems, ensuring every household gets energy solutions that are right for them. So how can you benefit?

Hailing from a musical family, Andy Lynch has toured the globe playing guitar with bands Zed, Atlas and The Feelers. We asked him about his musical experience so far and relocating to his five-acre haven in Warkworth.

Warkworth local, Kade Banks, is anything but blue about his first full- time contract to play rugby for the Auckland Blues in 2024. “I’ve been in and around the environment for a couple of years, but it’s good to finally be locked in for the next year at least.”

Tikitibu has been working with New Zealand artisans since 2011, connecting their diverse base of reputable retailers with New Zealand creatives. Their small but very dedicated team, based in the Matakana region, is passionate about supporting, growing and developing the creative sector.

“A good friend of mine from Taranaki had been trying to get me into speedgolf for several years and I said, ‘Mike, why would I want to run around the golf course?’ My only regret is I didn’t get into it sooner,” says Craig Russell of Speedgolf North.

Small communities survive and thrive on the basis of their volunteers. This is epitomised by the dedication of people like Jenny Schollum of Puhoi who was recently awarded a Queen’s Service Medal for services to the community and heritage preservation.

The Women's Centre Rodney, based in Warkworth, has been supporting women in the community since 1987. Dedicated to providing ways to inform, support, and empower women and their families, with a focus on connecting women with each other and with the Women’s Centre Team, 2023 saw increased and improved services offered under the leadership of Jo Nicholson in her first year as Centre Manager.

The driving force behind Tofu Auto Works in Kaiwaka, owner Chris Watson, discusses his latest winning creation and plans for the future.