Auckland’s specialty grocery scene is growing as Farro confirms plans to open its eighth location in the heart of Newmarket. The boutique supermarket chain will be transforming the former Liquorland site at 480 Broadway into its latest flagship, with an expected opening date scheduled for late 2026. A Strategic Urban Location Farro CEO Garth Sutherland expressed excitement about the expansion, noting that the Broadway site offers the perfect blend of accessibility and community vibe. The new store is designed to be more than just a grocery stop; it aims to be a "vibrant foodie destination" that mimics the feel of an authentic farmers market. Key features of the site include: 70 dedicated parking spaces for customer convenience. Triple access points via Broadway and Mahuru Street. Direct proximity to major northbound and southbound motorway on-ramps. What to Expect In-Store Staying true to the brand’s reputation for high-quality produce, the Newmarket branch will feature a full-service butcher and fishmonger. Customers can expect a selection of sustainably sourced seafood alongside free-farmed New Zealand meats. For those looking for a quick bite or professional-grade pantry staples, the store will offer: The Farro Kitchen range: A complete selection of premium ready-to-eat meals. Full-service Deli: Serving Allpress coffee, specialty matcha, and house-made salads. Artisan Goods: A curated collection of cheeses, charcuterie, and sweets from local patisseries. Supporting Local Producers The expansion is also a win for the wider New Zealand food industry. By stocking products from over 500 local and international artisan suppliers, Farro continues to act as a bridge between small-scale producers and Auckland consumers. Shoppers can look forward to finding favorites from iconic local names such as Daily Bread, Cassia, Gemmayze Street, and House of Chocolate on the shelves. "When Farro grows, so do the opportunities for those producers," Sutherland noted, highlighting the company’s commitment to fostering the local culinary ecosystem.

Despite the ongoing threat of bird flu, the Egg Producers Federation says free-range chickens are likely to move in and out of temporary lockdowns over the coming months as farmers respond to changing risk levels. Hundreds of thousands of hens have been kept indoors following the confirmation of a third case of bird flu in a wild bird in New Zealand. However, Egg Producers Federation Chair and Mainland Poultry Chief Executive John McKay said around 500,000 of Mainland Poultry's hens would be allowed back outside on Wednesday. Speaking to Checkpoint, McKay said farmers now have access to sufficient data to assess the level of risk to their flocks and make informed decisions about whether hens can safely resume free-ranging. As a precaution against bird flu, many egg producers capable of doing so have temporarily housed their hens indoors, limiting their ability to roam freely. McKay said the latest information suggests the risk to chickens remains low, even after the third detection of the virus. "The latest case was found in a petrel, and it's likely that we will continue to occasionally find infected seabirds washing up on our shores," he said. Mainland Poultry decided on Tuesday to prepare its farms for the return of hens to outdoor areas from Wednesday morning. "This is an evolving situation, and we will continue monitoring it closely and assessing the risks. The welfare of our birds remains our highest priority. If the risk level changes in the future, we may need to bring the birds back indoors again," McKay said. He warned that temporary restrictions on free-ranging could become a regular feature of poultry farming in New Zealand if bird flu continues to pose a threat. "We are committed to free-range farming because we want our birds to have access to the outdoors, and our customers care deeply about animal welfare," he said. To reassure consumers about the status of their eggs during future lockdown periods, McKay said Mainland Poultry plans to place stickers on egg cartons whenever hens are temporarily housed indoors. The labels will clearly explain that the birds were kept inside for their own protection and welfare. "It will be clear communication," McKay said. "We're also helping consumers understand how farmers are managing these risks while continuing to prioritise the health and welfare of their birds."

The New Zealand Institute for Advanced Technology (NZIAT) has officially launched today in Auckland, marking a significant milestone in the reform of New Zealand's science, innovation and technology system, says Auckland Minister Simon Watts, Science Technology and innovation Minister Penny Simmonds and Auckland Mayor Wayne Brown. NZIAT is New Zealand's fourth Public Research Organisation, set up to accelerate the development and commercialisation of advanced technologies such as AI, quantum technologies and advanced materials. It will help lift productivity and strengthen New Zealand's international competitiveness. Minister for Auckland Simon Watts says locating the institute at GridAKL is a clear demonstration of central Government backing Auckland's strengths under the new regional partnership framework. “The development of this hub acknowledges Auckland as the nation’s centre for future investment, and research and development. “Through the Auckland Deal, we're backing projects that help Auckland reach its full potential and strengthen its position as New Zealand's economic engine room. The launch of NZIAT is a great example of that in action. “By bringing national research and development infrastructure together with Auckland's existing commercial talent, we're creating the conditions for innovation, investment and high-value jobs that will strengthen economic resilience across the country.” Science, Innovation and Technology Minister Hon Penny Simmonds says the Institute is an investment in New Zealand's future productivity, prosperity and resilience. "Through the use of advanced technologies, it will strengthen connections between researchers, industry and investors, and help turn world-class ideas into real-world impact," Ms Simmonds says. Auckland Mayor Wayne Brown says the launch is a vote of confidence in the city. “Tech and innovation are key to lifting Auckland’s economy, and NZIAT will add to the strength of the city’s existing innovation ecosystem. With the institute based at GRIDAKL, alongside our startups, investors and innovation precincts, Auckland is well placed to make the most of the opportunities ahead. “With the Auckland Technology and Innovation Alliance also here, we are well on our way to building the tech hub of the South Pacific. The latest State of the City report shows Auckland has jumped 11 places in global startup rankings, reflecting the strength of our growing ecosystem.” NZIAT has already committed $71 million over seven years to the Future Magnetic and Materials Technologies Platform, hosted by Paihau – Robinson Research Institute at Te Herenga Waka – Victoria University of Wellington, and is progressing work on quantum technologies and AI.

Auckland Airport is warning there will be disruptions to check-in while bag dropping is upgraded, as the domestic and international airport terminals are integrated. They've built a temporary zone that some travellers will use for check-in over the next two to three years. Adam Hollingworth reports. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Stuff NZ is New Zealand’s essential news source — bringing you live, lively and trustworthy journalism from every corner of Aotearoa. Stay informed with breaking news, in-depth stories, and the latest updates that matter to Kiwis. We upload daily, keeping you connected with the people, places and issues shaping New Zealand today.

AUCKLAND, NZ – Auckland Airport's domestic terminal was temporarily evacuated on Monday morning after a fire alarm was activated, forcing hundreds of passengers to leave the building and gather outside. The incident caused disruption to domestic and regional flights, with travellers facing delays and uncertainty as emergency services carried out safety checks. Videos shared on social media showed large crowds of passengers waiting outside the terminal while airport staff and emergency responders investigated the alarm. Airport officials later confirmed that travellers were allowed back into the terminal once the necessary checks had been completed and the area was deemed safe. The evacuation created significant congestion outside the terminal as passengers awaited clearance to re-enter the building and receive updates on their travel plans. While no injuries were reported, the evacuation is expected to have a knock-on effect on flight schedules throughout the day. Auckland Airport has advised passengers to monitor updates from their airlines and allow extra time when travelling. Authorities have not yet confirmed what triggered the alarm. "Travellers have re-entered the domestic terminal at Auckland Airport after it was evacuated earlier this morning following a fire alarm activation," an airport spokesperson said. Passengers are encouraged to check directly with their airline for the latest flight information before heading to the airport.