Manawatū’s Year in Review: Key Events of 2025

The year 2025 was marked by significant events for the Manawatū region, revealing a landscape shaped by both challenges and triumphs. From the lingering effects of past disasters to new community initiatives, the stories of this year reflect resilience and determination. Editor Matthew Dallas offers a month-by-month overview of the pivotal moments that defined the region.

January to March: Community Resilience and Development

As the new year unfolded, communities in Tararua still grappled with the aftermath of Cyclone Gabrielle. On January 25, the coastal town of Herbertville took proactive measures to restore its social fabric by banding together to save the local tavern, the Herbertville Inn. Five families acquired the establishment, which had been closed due to flood damage. Their efforts culminated in a successful reopening in time for Easter.

February brought a contentious proposal from the Ministry of Education regarding the removal of school bus services in areas already served by public transport. Families expressed concerns that many children would be ineligible for assistance, especially in Ashhurst, where local public transport was insufficient to accommodate the influx of students. The situation escalated when the iconic Aberdeen restaurant in Palmerston North suddenly closed, underscoring the challenges facing the local hospitality industry.

In March, excitement surged as plans for a new hotel were revealed. The $50 million Tryp by Wyndham Hotel on The Square in Palmerston North promised to incorporate the historic post office building’s facade, generating enthusiasm for its anticipated completion in two years.

April to June: Education and Safety Concerns

April saw a primary school in Palmerston North thrust into the spotlight following a distressing incident involving a hard piece of plastic found in a student’s lunch. The event prompted national scrutiny of the Government’s school lunch programme, overseen by Associate Education Minister David Seymour, who faced criticism over budget cuts affecting the quality of meals.

Tragedy struck in May when a popular social media challenge led to the death of Ryan Satterthwaite, a 19-year-old from Palmerston North. His fatal head injury while participating in the “Run it straight” challenge prompted urgent warnings from school principals and police about the dangers associated with reckless online trends.

June marked a significant transportation milestone when the long-awaited Te Ahu a Turanga highway opened. This four-lane roadway, completed after four years of construction, provided a vital new route for residents of Manawatū and Tararua, significantly benefiting local businesses by increasing traffic.

July to December: Governance Changes and Community Grief

In July, control of the UCOL tertiary institution transitioned back to local governance, a move announced by the Government as part of a broader restructuring of polytechnic education effective January 1, 2026. This reversion aimed to enhance the autonomy of the 130-year-old institution.

August brought a first for New Zealand when a soldier stationed at Linton Military Camp faced a court martial for espionage. The soldier admitted to spying for a foreign nation and was subsequently dismissed from the army and sentenced to two years in custody. Meanwhile, the popular Cafe Cuba in Palmerston North faced liquidation due to substantial tax debts, although it soon reopened under new management.

As the local elections approached in September, discussions focused on the capping of rates and the national Māori wards referendum. The passing of Steve Stannard, a well-respected cycling advocate and café owner, from cancer prompted an outpouring of tributes from the community.

The elections in October resulted in the retention of Māori wards in Palmerston North and Horizons, while Scott Gilmore emerged as the unexpected new mayor of Tararua, pledging to ensure more efficient spending of ratepayer funds. Additionally, a fire at the former Fitz pub in Palmerston North raised health concerns due to the potential presence of asbestos.

November brought a heartbreaking incident involving the tragic deaths of three children in a rural property near Sanson. The alleged actions of their father left the community and the nation reeling from grief, underscoring the profound impact of violence on families.

In December, the Horizons Regional Council committed to funding bus services for approximately 300 teens from Ashhurst, alleviating concerns about transportation to schools in Palmerston North. This initiative, relying on a budget of about $80,000 annually, was designed to bridge gaps left by Ministry of Education service cuts until at least June 30, 2027.

The events of 2025 reflect a year of both challenges and responses within the Manawatū region, showcasing the resilience of its communities amidst adversity.