Podcasts about Northland

A woman has been killed in a dog attack in the small Northland settlement of Kaihu. Police were called to a property about 11.30 this morning along with ambulance, the fire service and the Northland rescue helicopter. The woman, whose name hasn't been released, was dead when police arrived. Reporter Teuila Fuatai spoke to Lisa Owen about what a local resident had to say.

The Big Idea for this week was: God Created Everything With Purpose, On Purpose, For Our Enjoyment and His Worship-The Bridge is a weekly gathering of students in the Northland of Kansas City who want to see Kansas City changed by Jesus, one student at a time. For more information visit our website at https://discoverchurchkc.com/thebridge/ or follow us on social media at https://www.instagram.com/bridge_kc/ and https://www.facebook.com/BridgeDCKC

A Northland father is pleading for a review of dog laws and a crackdown on owners after his young daughters were left terrified after witnessing a brutal attack by a pack of roaming dogs right outside their house. Last financial year the Far North District Council received 1087 reports of stray dogs and in the last two weeks it has issued about 800 infringements for unregistered dogs. But Tyrone Biddle believes more needs to done before a child is seriously injured. Biddle spoke to Lisa Owen.

In this episode of Talking Dairy, Northland farmer and DairyNZ associate director Greg Collins shares an inside look at his year in the role, as the search for the next associate director to join the DairyNZ Board gets underway.  If you're a dairy farmer who's ready to grow your governance skills and contribute to the dairy sector, this episode offers some great insights into what you need to know.  Greg is the 15th associate director on DairyNZ's Board, since the initiative was introduced in 2013. The associate directorship is a one-year position that offers levy-paying farmers the chance to get first-hand governance experience.   Find out about the DairyNZ associate director role and how to apply Have feedback or ideas for future episodes? Email us at talkingdairy@dairynz.co.nz Connect with DairyNZ Stay up to date with advice, latest research, tools and resources. Read, browse, scroll, listen, or be there in person. Visit dairynz.co.nz/get-connected

A once‑in‑a‑generation payout is reshaping the future of Kiwi farming. Host Nigel Grant sits down with ASB General Manager Rural (and Northland farmer) Aidan Gent, to unpack what Fonterra's multi‑billion‑dollar capital return means for farmers, their businesses, and the next generation – from strengthening balance sheets to unlocking opportunities for investment, diversification, and long‑term resilience. Aidan shares insights into the financial decisions farmers are weighing right now, the importance of pairing short‑term gains with long‑term planning, and how this windfall could reshape generational wealth and succession pathways.

We sit down with Dr. Tasneem Karassi of Wellness Family Dentistry to talk about her journey into dentistry, her decision to open a startup practice in Royal Oak, and her passion for patient-centered, whole-body dental care. We start by getting to know Dr. Karassi beyond dentistry, including her long-time love of ceramics and how working with her hands outside the office helps her unwind and stay grounded. That creative background naturally connects to dentistry, a profession that blends precision, artistry, and problem-solving.We explore how and why she chose Royal Oak as both her home and the location for her practice. After working in several offices across the region, Dr. Karassi knew she wanted to build something from scratch that reflected her own vision. With encouragement from fellow local business owners and the right opportunity opening up, Wellness Family Dentistry was born. She shares how the energy, community, and vibrancy of Royal Oak made it the perfect place to plant roots and grow a practice.A major focus of our conversation is dental anxiety. We talk about why so many patients feel nervous at the dentist and how trust, communication, and time are the most important tools in overcoming that fear. Dr. Karassi explains how her office prioritizes education, visual tools, and a calm, spa-like environment to remove the mystery from dental care. From aroma therapy to noise-canceling headphones, everything is designed to make patients feel safe, heard, and unrushed.We also dive into dental insurance and affordability, including options for patients without insurance. Dr. Karassi outlines her one-time new patient special and the Wellness Family Plan, a membership model that focuses on preventive care and transparency rather than insurance limitations.One of the most impactful parts of the conversation centers on airway dentistry and sleep apnea. We discuss how sleep apnea is often underdiagnosed, how it affects the entire body, and how dentists can play a key role in identifying and treating it. Dr. Karassi explains mandibular advancement devices as a non-invasive alternative to CPAP machines and shares real-life examples of how proper diagnosis can dramatically improve patients' quality of life.We wrap up by talking about pediatric dental care, the importance of starting children early, and how lifelong habits are formed. Dr. Karassi shares how her curiosity and conversations during a two-year gap period ultimately led her into dentistry, a profession she now uses to combine health, wellness, aesthetics, and community impact.Wellness Family Dentistry Website– https://wellnessfamilydentistry.co(00:00) Intro(00:20) Welcome to the ROCC Pod(00:49) Ceramics, Creativity, and Dentistry(01:53) Starting a Dental Practice from Scratch(04:24) Understanding and Treating Dental Anxiety(08:46) Dental Insurance, Membership Plans, and Costs(10:30) Airway Dentistry and Sleep Apnea(15:57) Pediatric Dental Care and Starting Kids Early(18:24) Finding Passion in Dentistry(20:33) Joining the Royal Oak Chamber(21:14) Fishbowl Question & Fun Wrap-Up(22:41) How to Contact Wellness Family Dentistry Learn more about the Royal Oak Chamber of Commerce: https://www.royaloakchamber.com/Connect with our hosts:Jon Gay from JAG in Detroit Podcasts - http://www.jagindetroit.com/Lisa Bibbee from Century 21 Northland - http://soldbylisab.com/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A recent study states that the average American splurges on dining out more than anything else, using about thirteen percent of our earned income on a delicious meal, an experience made even better when you can feast on no-nonsense food at down-to-earth prices. That's the beauty of The Social House, a restaurant as big on community as it is its fantastic fare, known in its own right for its hearty breakfasts and mouthwatering lunch options, along with their friendly ambiance. It all started in Hermantown, opening in 2019 to rave reviews and a cult-like following from the start, with a huge Canal Park location opening just a few years later in the summer of 2023. The menus are truly meant for everyone, a conscious choice to ensure there's something for every single taste. Today, the Social House truly is the place for being, well social, as one of the Northland's most exciting places to eat - times two! The man behind the spot is Matt ‘Bert' Berthiaume, a Superior native with a big love for Duluth and a long history in the business. He shares his story with us in this delicious episode of For The Love Of Duluth.

Te Arikinui Kuini Nga wai hono i te po has been welcomed to the Waitangi Treaty Grounds. At the powhiri the Kiingitanga pledged that the proceeds from the annual Turangawaewae Regatta in March will go to iwi heavily affected by recent severe weather events including in parts of Northland. Maori News Journalist Pokere Paewai reports from Waitangi.

The Big Idea for this week was: Pursue God Through Learning-The Bridge is a weekly gathering of students in the Northland of Kansas City who want to see Kansas City changed by Jesus, one student at a time. For more information visit our website at https://discoverchurchkc.com/thebridge/ or follow us on social media at https://www.instagram.com/bridge_kc/ and https://www.facebook.com/BridgeDCKC

It has been about 3 years since Josh Laxton assumed the role as Senior Pastor at Northland Church, one of Orlando's most well-known congregations. Josh has accomplished much for being such a young man, including achieving a PhD in Missiology, pastoring several churches, and being a professor at Wheaton College. He has a passion for Northland to be a church on mission for Christ. https://www.northlandchurch.net/ Also, a talk with Senior Counsel Stephanie Taub from First Liberty.

Old-timer Lew Pickens' passions hark back to his days clearing land in Northland - camp oven cooking and driving bullock teams. He has a woolshed full of early tools and farming machines on the farm now run by son Craig. He is keenly aware that his stories, culture, traditions and old ways will be lost when he, and a few like him, are gone. You can find photos and read more about the stories in this episode on our webpage, here.With thanks to:Lew, Julie and Craig Pickens, and Julie TannneauGo to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details

Growing Pomegranates is not a very popular gardening subject in New Zealand, yet, once you get into it you might be surprised what the shrub looks like and how the fruits taste when fully grown and mature. Punica granatum is the one with red flowers that hails from the Mediterrané and Tropical and Sub-Tropical regions. The Socotran Pomegranate hails from the Socotra Island (Yemen) and has pink flowers but less sweet fruit when it ripens. My research tells me they grow well in warm regions, but I saw them growing well in Canterbury too, as long as the frosts aren't too extreme. Plant in winter… Generally speaking, plant in a sunny spot (regular sun-light for most of the day) with a large area of well drained fertile soil of good depth (50 cm deep is a good start). Regular watering (not over-watering!) is appreciated and will allow the plant to move upwards. Citrus fertiliser (with a decent amount of Potash in the N-P-K ration) is a great boost from springtime till autumn. Every two weeks or so will help the plant nicely. From spring till autumn the flowers, followed by developing fruit, will absorb the food. There are dwarf varieties (“Nana”) that are suitable to plant in large pots – they can grow to a meter long. Often it takes three years for a plant to become habitual growers of bright-red flowers, followed by the red fruit. In some warm conditions (Northland, Auckland, coastal Hawke's Bay, etc) the Pomegranates might take two (sometimes three) years to start delivering the fruit. In summer, the flowers fade a bit towards an orangey look – pollinating insects will by then have done their job. Fruit will develop in autumn or slightly later. A regular but light pruning after harvest will keep the plant in great condition for development in springtime. Sometimes the plants show growth of “suckers” popping up beside the main trunk – when the plant is grafted, these suckers can also develop below the graft. Suckers are exactly what their name suggests, “useless suckers” that won't develop any flowers and subsequent fruit for the future – get rid of them! When the plant gets into the ripening phase, some sap-sucking invertebrates can do some damage: MealyBugs, Aphids, whitefly, and scale insects. Grab a Neem Oil or Conqueror Oil and smack them every fortnight. Enjoy this fruit! Yes, it can be a bit messy, but hey! Try it out! LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this segment, Jerry Nolte, the presiding commissioner in Clay County, joins the show to discuss the latest developments on the potential Royals stadium in Clay County. Jerry clarifies the recent press release that sparked confusion about the county's involvement, explaining that the deadline for the April ballot was missed, but the county's proposal remains strong. He shares the importance of a vote, ensuring the people of Clay County have a say in the decision. Jerry also addresses the role of the state and other partners in the process, highlighting the county's commitment to working together to bring the Royals to the area.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Staff cuts are to blame for a massive IT outage at hospitals in Auckland and Northland according to a union. The Public Service Association says its members had to resort to paper systems and white boards overnight Wednesday after it says an outage took down Emergency Department, laboratory and in patient systems. Health New Zealand says hospitals and emergency departments remained open and patient care continued safely during the incident. The PSA says the latest failure is a direct result of cuts to Health New Zealand's digital team. PSA national Secretary Fleur Fitzsimons spoke to Lisa Owen.

There's a mystery lurking in the waters of northern New Zealand. What happened to a highly invasive seaweed pest that smothered huge areas of seabed, threatening native species and the Kiwi way of life? Northland reporter Peter de Graaf tried to find out.

Te Whatu Ora Health New Zealand is rejecting a union's assertion that poor resourcing was behind a 12-hour IT outage at hospitals in Auckland and Northland. Acting chief IT officer for digital services Darren Douglass spoke to Ingrid Hipkiss.

For 12 hours from Wednesday night to Thursday morning this week, clinicians had to use pen and paper after an IT outage in Auckland and Northland hospitals. Dr Ulrich Speidel, a senior lecturer in computer science at Auckland University spoke to Ingrid Hipkiss.

It's a chilly morning in the Midwest, and we're kicking off the day with the latest news in the Six at Six. The Kansas City Royals have made a big announcement - they're not moving to the 19th and Wyandotte site after all. We've got updates on a Northland man accused of murdering his neighbor, and a road rage incident in Parkville that left a snowplow driver shaken. Plus, a man has been arrested for allegedly firing at a snowplow truck. We'll also cover a crash on I-70 and a coffee pod recall that's got people buzzing. It's a busy morning in the KC area, and we've got you covered.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Matt Shiles welcomes Pastor Josh back to the podcast for his first week of the new series "Breakthrough".  Matt leads a discussion on where this series came from, what it means to the life of Northland and how it differs from breakTHROUGH. Join us for this initial episode kicking off Pastor Josh's exciting new series!

In the Northland town of Oakura, locals are adjusting to a new reality - no proper road south to Whangarei for as long as the next three months. The road north reopened on Saturday but it is a long detour, and the emergency route south is narrow, steep and, frankly, frightening. Peter de Graaf reports from a town picking up the pieces after last week's storm.

Bruce and Dana Williams have been humbled by the generosity of their customers since they lost their home to the flood that hit their Northland town. The Oakura couple braved chest-deep water after waking to heavy rains inundating their home. But the heavy rains haven't stopped them manning the counter at their fish n chip shop which has become an unlikely community hub. Dana spoke to Ingrid Hipkiss.

A large insurance bill is looming from the latest weather-related disasters. The landslide at Mount Maunganui combined with flood damage in Northland, Coromandel and Gisborne means that the claims are set to roll in. Insurance and Financial Services Ombudsman Karen Stevens told Ryan Bridge that people affected can expect delays given the high number of claims being made. "I think everybody understands that with a significant weather event, there are going to be more delays than if it's just business as usual." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

An RNZ special on the unfolding weather event in the North Island, presented by Lisa Owen.

Landslides have cut off the main access roads to Oakura in Northland, leaving a steep and narrow emergency road as the only way in or out. Oakura Community Hall chairman Glenn Ferguson spoke to Lauren Crimp.

In this episode of The ROCC Pod, we sit down with Taylor Simpson, co-owner of Michigan By The Bottle, to explore the evolution of a wine-centric community experience that brings together Michigan's top vineyards under one roof. Taylor shares how the concept began in 2012 as a blog run by two passionate wine lovers and grew into a network of tasting rooms across Southeast Michigan—including locations in Shelby Township, Royal Oak, and Auburn Hills—with a fourth coming soon to Lake Orion.We discuss what sets Michigan By The Bottle apart: a curated selection from 15 winery partners across the state, giving customers access to wines from every Michigan AVA (American Viticultural Area) without the long drive. Events are central to the experience, from wine and food pairings with winemakers to unexpected offerings like sourdough workshops and Galentine's gatherings with permanent jewelry. It's a place where community and curiosity intersect—where wine is the medium, but connection is the goal.Taylor also breaks down her role in the company. Alongside her brother, she acquired Michigan By The Bottle in partnership with Paul and Geoff Hamelin of Verterra Winery. They've modernized the business, revamped the wine club to be fully customizable, and launched member-exclusive perks—like curated trips to Leelanau Peninsula wineries.We get into Michigan's unique wine geography, diving into how the 45th parallel and Lake Michigan's climate make this state ideal for cool-climate varietals. Taylor explains how lake-effect snow insulates vines during harsh winters, helping Michigan produce high-quality grapes that rival well-known European regions. She even introduces us to less common varietals like Blaufränkisch and Grüner Veltliner, showcasing the diversity in Michigan's wine scene.The episode wraps on a lighter note with Taylor's ostrich-riding adventure in South Africa and a fun fishbowl question about naming her dream yacht—spoiler: it'd be something wine-related like Uncorked.We're proud to spotlight Taylor and Michigan By The Bottle as a vibrant example of entrepreneurial energy and regional pride, all while raising a glass to local flavor.Learn more at https://michiganbythebottle.com/Email: tasting@michiganbythebottle.com(00:00) - Meet Taylor Simpson(01:03) - Ostrich Riding in South Africa(02:18) - Origins of Michigan By The Bottle(03:56) - Locations & Events(05:30) - Wine Clubs & Member Trips(07:21) - Michigan Winery Selection Process(08:28) - Michigan's Wine Geography Explained(10:01) - Ice Wine and Upcoming Events(10:28) - Unique Wines to Try(12:30) - Royal Oak Chamber Experience(13:20) - Fishbowl Fun: Name Your Yacht(14:28) - How to Connect with Michigan By The Bottle Learn more about the Royal Oak Chamber of Commerce: https://www.royaloakchamber.com/Connect with our hosts:Jon Gay from JAG in Detroit Podcasts - http://www.jagindetroit.com/Lisa Bibbee from Century 21 Northland - http://soldbylisab.com/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode, host Mundo dives into the latest news in Kansas City and around the world. He discusses President Trump's arrival in Davos, Switzerland for the World Economic Forum, and the buzz surrounding the World Cup coming to the city. Pete also touches on the controversy surrounding the Chiefs deal and the potential implications for Kansas taxpayers. Additionally, he previews a meeting between Republican Caucus members in Kansas, where concerns are growing about the Chiefs deal. The episode wraps up with a discussion on a local news story involving a shooting in the Northland and the potential use of the stand your ground law in the defense.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this clip, we're joined by Matthew Merriman, attorney for Jeffrey King, who's facing charges in a high-profile shooting case in the Northland. Matthew shares his perspective on the case, discussing the role of Missouri's stand your ground law and the importance of self-defense. He also delves into the details of the incident, including the confrontation between King and the victim, Chris Wells. With a strong defense strategy in place, Matthew explains how his firm will navigate the case and protect his client's constitutional rights. This conversation offers a unique insight into the complexities of the law and the defense's approach.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

An RNZ special on the unfolding weather event in the North Island, presented by Ingrid Hipkiss. Red heavy rain warnings are in place for Northland, Coromandel, Bay of Plenty, and Gisborne from Tologa Bay north. Several regions have declared a state of local emergency, including Coromandel, Hauraki, Bay of Plenty, Whangarei and Gisborne Tai Rāwhiti.

To Northland now, where clean-up is underway after hours of torrential rain yesterday. Northland Civil Defence Group Controller Jenny Calder spoke to Lauren Crimp.

Two dozen homes in the settlement of Ōakura on Northland's east coast were evacuated yesterday because of the threat of landslides. Ngātiwai Trust Board CEO Simon Mitchell spoke to Lauren Crimp.

Five local states of emergency are still in place in regions hardest hit by yesterday's weather event, though red warnings have lapsed in Northland and Coromandel. Thames-Coromandel District mayor Peter Revell spoke to Lauren Crimp.

From the Bay of Islands, the Prince of the Provinces has his say on the Northland floods, the election date, his war of words with Sam Neill over mining in Central Otago, and whether he’s NZ’s version of Donald Trump.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Civil Defence in Tolaga Bay East Coast says low-lying households near Hikuwai River should evacuate now. Surface flooding has stranded several East Coast communities - with no easing yet of the tropical storm battering the North Island. Tairawhiti has now joined Whangārei, Hauraki, Thames-Coromandel and the Bay of Plenty in declaring States of Emergency. Red rain warnings for Northland, Coromandel Peninsula, Bay of Plenty and parts of Gisborne will start expiring between 11pm and 11am tomorrow. Hauraki District Council says some homes in Whiritoa have been evacuated, and the Surf Club has been set up as a Civil Defence site. In Thames Coromandel, Mayor Peter Revell says Whitianga, Cooks Beach and Pauanui are cut off, with near record rain already last night. "There's going to be significant volumes of rain in the next four or five hours, so that will certainly load up the rivers and threaten slips on roads and what have you." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A Northland farmer in the flooded Hikurangi Swamp, just north of Whangārei, updates the biblical rainfall numbers falling in his region.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Monday Night Was Americana on Display! Plus, Was Ice in the Northland and DST vs. Standard Time Debate | 1-20-26See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Heavy rain and strong winds continue to hit the upper North Island Emergency Management and Recovery Minister Mark Mitchell spoke to Lauren Crimp.

Emergency Management Minister Mark Mitchell is skipping today's National Party caucus retreat in Christchurch to deal with the unfolding weather situation in the upper North Island. Watches and warnings are in place for several parts of the country. Heavy rain is now battering Northland and the Coromandel Peninsula causing flooding in many places and completely cutting off Whitianga from both the north and the south. Mark Mitchell told Mike Hosking he'll be based in Auckland, so he can travel to where he needs to go. He says he and the Prime Minister have agreed it's best if he stays there, as most of the severe weather is expected to hit the North Island's eastern seaboard. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Another Kiwi success story. Pic's Peanut Butter has now hit a 41% domestic market share in New Zealand. They're forecasting 20% sales growth in 2026 after 20% growth last year, and plans to expand into commercial peanut growing in Northland are underway. CEO Aimee McCammon told Mike Hosking Kiwis can taste the quality of their product, and they're happy to be eating it and paying for it. She says people are still looking for good, healthy food that is good to feed their families, and so Pic's continues to grow. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Longtime residents of flood-damaged Oakura in Northland describe the weekend's rain as the worst in living memory. Glenn Ferguson, who runs the community hall spoke to Lauren Crimp.

Most flood-damaged roads on Northland's east coast have been cleared after yesterday's torrential rain brought down slips and downed trees. Whangarei Mayor Ken Couper spoke to Melissa Chan-Green.

Northlanders have begun the big job of cleaning up the debris left by yesterday's flooding. Kim Baker-Wilson is in Oakura and spoke to Lauren Crimp.

Civil defence is bracing for more heavy downpours in Northland later this week while communities are still dealing with destroyed homes and buildings. Ellen O'Dwyer reports.

HOUR 1: Could the city have done more ahead of the fatal shooting between neighbors in the northland? full 2483 Fri, 16 Jan 2026 20:00:00 +0000 TK2pCvaBdBuGgHegYz2qavJja5Lfe7eq news The Dana & Parks Podcast news HOUR 1: Could the city have done more ahead of the fatal shooting between neighbors in the northland? You wanted it... Now here it is! Listen to each hour of the Dana & Parks Show whenever and wherever you want! © 2025 Audacy, Inc. News False

KC Tries to Stop ICE Detention Center, Plus Northland's Latest Tragic Information | 1-16-26See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

   I get to share something today I never thought I'd be able to say out loud.  Alex Smith was my best information source about everything I ever knew about how Andy Reid coaches, hires and fires and thinks.  On Tuesday, Smith let out what I've been saying about Andy and his staff and his OC's for years.  It's good stuff and you want to hear this.  Also, we'll play a clip from Smith on exactly why he dislikes the Denver Broncos and thinks they are a terrible #1 seed.    The Royals are moving the walls in for Bobby Witt Jr and a whole bunch more homers at the K and they explain why this will lead to more wins.    KU just destroys Iowa State at Allen Field House and everyone got to see what's possible with this year's team.  We explore the big question... was this a one off or can this be repeated night in and night out?    We saw two Trumps on Tuesday, one exuberant about economic news another flipping off a heckler.  Oh my.    There was a full on ICE freak out in KC as hundreds of ICE vehicles are parked in a giant lot in the Northland reportedly belonging to Chiefs owner Clark Hunt.  Oh, and we're building a detention facility!   Yes, yes and yes.  More, more and more please.    A famous Kansas City company is livid with the restaurant owned by Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce for being fraudulent and cheap.   This is a tasty story.    The far left media take terrible pot shots at Dilbert creator Scott Adams who died at age 68.    Celebs are getting arrested and our Final Final is some bad news for Obamacare.

State of States in Kansas and Missouri with BIG Questions, Plus Northland Tragedy Needs More Attention | 1-14-26See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Northland town of Kerikeri has been smashing temperature records in recent days - but the sweltering conditions come as the town loses access to once-popular swimming spots. Reporter Peter de Graaf reports on what locals are doing to cool off.

New details in the Manage My Health data breach show more than 80,000 of the 125,000 patients affected by the hack are based in Northland. Coast to Coast Healthcare chairperson and specialist GP Dr Tim Malloy spoke to Lauren Crimp.

Up to a thousand people gathered on a Northland hilltop before dawn yesterday to remember the Battle of Ruapekapeka Pa. Reporter Peter de Graaf.

While parts of the country experienced scorching temperatures yesterday, other areas were hit with heavy rain, thunder and lightning. Napier almost broke a near 50-year record, reaching 36 degrees; New details in the Manage My Health data breach show more than 80,000 of the 125,000 patients affected by the hack are based in Northland; Kiwi-based Iranians are watching with worry as Iranian military forces continue their violent crackdown on anti-government protesters. Forough Amin who has been in New Zealand for 11 years, says she hasn't heard from her family in Iran since the phones and internet were switched off there; The owner of a new supermarket in Christchurch says sales in the first three days were more than double what they expected. Ethan Vickery and his father Shane opened Kai Co to give shoppers an alternative to the Woolworths and Foodstuffs supermarket duopoly; Scrabble boards were put to serious use as New Zealand hosted its first national women's Scrabble championship in Auckland. Twenty competitors battled for the title, with Joanne Craig finishing third after losing her final match to the eventual champion.