Nine To Noon Around the motu: Jonathan McKenzie in Waikato
Mar 10, 2026
Jonathan McKenzie, editor of the Waikato Times and local reporter, paints a vivid picture of regional life. He discusses toxic cyanobacterial blooms hitting lakes and proposed ultrasonic buoy trials. He covers costly repairs to the Waikato Expressway and community frustration over road quality. He also shares quirky local stories from high teen licence pass rates to Gen Z-led bakery raves.
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Cyanobacteria Crisis And Ultrasonic Buoy Hope
- Cyanobacterial algal blooms have infested most Waikato River lakes, ruining swimming, trout fishing and local summer economies.
- Jonathan McKenzie says ultrasonic buoys from Hydro Synergy claim 90% clearance in 60 days and councils are evaluating trials at Lake Hood.
Expressway Requires Early $80M Repairs
- The Waikato Expressway needs $80 million in repairs well before its expected 25-year lifespan due to higher-than-anticipated traffic and possible design issues.
- McKenzie attributes the problem to underestimated population growth and 'learnings' in road design and materials.
Community Program Boosts Te Kūiti Licence Passes
- Te Kūiti achieved an 82.2% full licence pass rate after a community trust called Number 12 provided lessons and test preparation for teens.
- McKenzie shared his personal experience sitting in the backseat during his children's tests to illustrate local testing dynamics.