People are being told to stop charging their e-devices once they are full as the number of fires caused by batteries rises.Data from insurer AMI said there had been a 17 percent increase year-on-year in fires started from lithium ion batteries - which are used in phones, hearing aids, power tools, computers and more.Insurance Council of New Zealand consumer affairs manager Sarah-Jane Knox told Nine to Noon the fires were often caused because people were charging incorrectly.That could mean using the wrong charger, using a device that had been physically damaged, or over charging."Really with these lithium ion batteries, once they are charged you should unplug them... they're not safe to be left on overnight for things like power tools," she said.That advice tended to be different for cars because the manufacturers' instructions allowed that.People charging their phones while they slept should take precautions, she said."You shouldn't have it on any soft furnishings like beds or couches, that sort of thing."If the batteries overheated they emitted a toxic, flammable, explosive gas, she said."It causes quite an intense fire and you can't extinguish it and, because it's so explosive, it can quickly spread," she said.The batteries were responsible for 10 percent of all total-loss house fires, Knox said.This week, Auckland recycling firm Simsmetal Industries was fined $30,000 after a fire at a scrap metal yard in 2023 caused by a lithium-ion battery.In Western Australia, an average of three house fires a week were caused by the batteries exploding, and a growing number of Australian apartment buildings were banning electric vehicles due to fire-risk concerns.Australian insurers, many of which were the same companies that operated in New Zealand, have said while there were no immediate plans to charge higher premiums for households with the batteries, or to try to restrict their use, they were deeply concerned.

Looking for plans? Explore events happening soon on the Hibiscus Coast and start planning your next activity!Tradie FridaysFridaysMore detailsThe Black Flames are BackSat 10 MayMore detailsDigital SeniorsEvery WedMore detailsWant to see more events?Explore everything happening in our community on the Hibiscus Coast App.Have an event to share?Promote it for FREE - click here

Well, here’s something for country music fans to get excited about—iHeart Country New Zealand has officially launched today!You can tune in on the iHeartRadio app and selected FM frequencies around the country, including 105.4 in Auckland.It’s the first new radio station to hit New Zealand in recent years, offering up a Hot Country format that mixes current hits with fresh, emerging tracks.The catch? There are no live presenters yet, so it's all pre-programmed music for now.For locals on the Hibiscus Coast, this new station is a pretty cool addition.iHeart Country offers another way to enjoy commercial-free tunes, especially with the promise of no ads for the first 10,000 songs—what a treat!It’s a perfect way to get your country fix without interruptions.If you're wondering about Gold FM, which used to occupy 105.4, it’s now moved exclusively online.This reflects the ongoing shift to streaming and on-demand music—something we’re all getting more used to these days.That said, I have to admit it’s a bit of a letdown that the iHeart Radio app doesn’t show song details, like the artist and track name.Right now, it feels more like a jukebox than a proper radio station.For those of us who like to know exactly what we're listening to, it’s a small miss.Still, if you’re after new country music, iHeart Country is a solid addition to your playlist.Whether you’re out on the road or at home, it’s nice to have another station to choose from.And while there are no live presenters yet, it’s an opportunity for more seamless, on-the-go listening.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

A solid marketing strategy is crucial for small businesses seeking growth.While building brand recognition is important, the primary focus should be on acquiring new customers and retaining existing ones.These elements lay the foundation for expanding your customer base, increasing sales, and ensuring long-term success.Effective Marketing Components for GrowthAn impactful marketing plan should incorporate key components that collectively drive business growth:1. Customer Engagement and LoyaltyBuilding lasting relationships with your customers is fundamental. Encourage repeat business and foster loyalty by engaging with your audience and making them feel valued. A loyal customer base doesn’t just return; they become advocates, helping attract new prospects through referrals.2. Lead GenerationCapturing potential customers' interest is the first step toward growth. Use targeted content to draw attention, gather valuable information, and guide leads through the sales process. Offering incentives like free resources or discounts can help convert interest into action.3. Market DifferentiationTo stand out, define what makes your business unique. Whether it’s exceptional customer service, innovative products, or community involvement, highlighting your unique value proposition is key to attracting your ideal customers.4. Compelling Content and CopywritingQuality content is vital in converting readers into customers. Whether it’s a blog post, email, or social media ad, your copy should grab attention, create interest, and encourage action. Craft messages that resonate with your audience’s needs and emotions, providing a clear next step for them to take.The Power of Digital MarketingDigital marketing offers small businesses powerful tools to target specific audiences and measure performance in real-time. Unlike traditional methods, digital platforms provide the flexibility to quickly adjust campaigns, ensuring better outcomes and more efficient resource use.Managing ExpectationsMarketing results take time, especially when it comes to building brand awareness or customer engagement. Set realistic goals and understand that consistent, ongoing effort leads to meaningful growth over time.Tracking Success with KPIs and the SMART FrameworkMeasuring success is essential to ensure your marketing strategy works. Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) such as website traffic, email open rates, number of views, clicks, and conversion rates provide valuable insights. The SMART framework offers a clear structure for goal-setting:Specific – Clearly define your goal.Measurable – Track your progress.Achievable – Ensure the goal is realistic.Relevant – Align it with your overall business objectives.Time-bound – Set deadlines for results.How Business Owners Can Implement This AdviceStart Small: Focus on one or two strategies at a time—like building a customer loyalty program or refining your website’s content with strong Call-to-Action (CTAs). Don’t try to overhaul everything at once.Use Affordable Tools: Take advantage of low-cost tools such as Mailchimp for email marketing, Canva for content creation, and Google Analytics for tracking website performance.Be Consistent: Marketing success requires regular effort. Set aside time weekly or monthly to review your strategy, track progress, and make adjustments.Measure Progress: Use the SMART framework to set clear, achievable goals for each marketing activity. Track performance and adjust based on what works best.For small businesses on the Hibiscus Coast, leveraging local platforms—like the hyper-local Hibiscus Coast App—can enhance visibility and connect with a highly engaged audience.A comprehensive marketing strategy blending branding, customer engagement, lead generation, and compelling content is essential for small business growth. Digital marketing provides the tools to measure and refine efforts for ongoing improvement. By setting clear, achievable goals and staying consistent, small businesses can achieve sustainable success.Remember, as the saying goes, "You can't manage what you can't measure." Ensuring every dollar spent on advertising and marketing is trackable allows you to assess its return on investment (ROI) effectively. This approach not only validates your marketing decisions but also empowers you to optimise your strategies for better outcomes.If you're navigating the challenges of local marketing or seeking fresh ideas, feel free to reach out. Townsquare Media is always open to a conversation and happy to offer guidance where we can.

Your weekend weather at a glance.Coasties, here’s what the next four days have in store:Friday, 9/5Rainy and windy. Breezy to brisk Northerly winds.High: 20Low: 13Saturday, 10/5A mix of sun and cloud. Fairly breezy South to Sou'West winds.High: 18Low: 12Sunday, 11/5 (Mothers Day)A mix of sun and cloud. Breezy Southerly winds.High: 19Low: 12Monday, 12/5Mainly sunny. Light Sou'East winds.High: 19Low: 10Looking for more weather details?Check out our full Weather & Travel section in the Hibiscus Coast App for:🌊 Tide information🌬️ Wind conditions🌊 Wave updates🌞 UV levels🏖️ Safe swimming areasand much more.Everything you need is inside the Hibiscus Coast App – anytime, anywhere!

Many Aucklanders say the supercity model has failed to deliver the city's potential and it's falling behind.Research from Auckland University examines the city's progress since the creation of the supercity 15 years ago, as Auckland leaders gather for an event marking the milestone.Among them are the Minister for Auckland Simeon Brown, current Mayor Wayne Brown and former Prime Ministers John Key and Helen Clark.The survey showed Aucklanders overwhelmingly supported a long-term infrastructure plan, and most (76 percent) believe the city lacked a cohesive public transport plan.The consulting firm Deloitte has produced two of three annual State of the City reports which compare Auckland with similar cities globally.Deloitte NZ chief executive Mike Horne told Nine to Noon the building blocks were there but the country's biggest city was falling behind, compared to overseas cities."It's set some of those key building blocks but it's not seeing Auckland deliver its potential and it's not seeing Auckland compete on the global stage to the degree that it really needs to."Deloitte New Zealand CEO, Mike Horne. Photo: SuppliedThe survey showed 77 of respondents believed Auckland needed to position itself as a global innovation city to attract talent and strengthen its economy, but expressed concern that the city didn't maximise this advantage compared to overseas cities.Horne said the supercity model allowed the city to be unified in order to make decisions around key infrastructure challenges.He said the City Rail Link and Waterview tunnel may not have been delivered at all under the previous structure."We're at that early stage where we need a lot more of that infrastructure investment to deliver in the future."Horne said there was support for greater intensification to be built around transport corridors, while retaining green space."There is a divide as to exactly how does that play through on private transport as well where there is a sig no that see private car transport as a big part of the future."The survey showed 61 percent of Aucklanders thought reducing congestion should be the city's top transport priority, even if it meannt introducing charges on some roads at times when they were most congested.Just over half think cycling and pedestrian access needed more investment.Committee for Auckland Director Mark Thomas said if Auckland didn't reset its direction with a new agenda that focused on bolder action, smarter investment and much stronger global competitiveness, it would continue to fall behind."We must learn more effectively from the best globally and have the courage to back bold, transformative ideas locally or risk continuing to lose the economic opportunity, talent and quality of life we need to thrive," Thomas said."The annual State of the City report shows Auckland is already being overtaken by faster-moving global competitor cities."Without much clearer commitment from central and local government and their partners, Auckland's standard of living and growth prospects will continue to suffer."Auckland University of Technology Vice-Chancellor, Damon Salesa. Photo: The University of AucklandAuckland University of Technology Vice-Chancellor Damon Salesa said the organisation was acutely aware of the need for Auckland to succeed in the next 15 years and beyond."Our city will be home to the greatest number of international students, Māori and Pacific young people and indeed of all youth. They have enormous potential and deserve a city that provides education, infrastructure and employment opportunities," Salesa said."AUT is focused on partnerships to amplify the impact our university, students and academics can provide for Auckland and beyond so our city's people can thrive. This means focusing on our city's unique combination of talented people with diverse and cosmopolitan experiences and viewpoints."Former Prime Minister Helen Clark, patron of the Helen Clark Foundation, said there had been concern that Auckland's potential could not be maximised with its governance dispersed across a number of territorial councils."The Royal Commission was established to look at better options, and I have no doubt that the single city has been the right outcome."

Coasties, if you’re planning to head overseas soon, make sure your passport is up to date!As of 2 May 2025, the cost of obtaining a New Zealand passport has risen.The price for an adult passport has increased from $215 to $247, and the price for a child passport has gone up from $125 to $144 (including GST).The Department of Internal Affairs (DIA) states this fee increase is necessary to cover the growing costs involved in producing passports, including rising wages, technology, materials, and insurance.Briget Ridden, Acting Deputy Secretary of Regulatory and Identity Services, explained, "We are conscious of putting up fees only where necessary and are already taking steps to increase efficiency and minimise costs."This includes better use of technology and scaling back on non-essential upgrades.The revenue generated by passport applications helps to maintain New Zealand’s global reputation, ensuring that Kiwis can continue to travel to over 185 countries without needing a visa or with visa-on-arrival access.New Zealand’s fully online passport application process remains one of the most convenient in the world, allowing Kiwis to apply from anywhere, anytime.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

A study has found New Zealand's slice of the ocean is absorbing more heat than any other.One of the scientists behind the work says the effect is not just making the sea feel a bit warmer for a dip, but worsening storms like ex-tropical Cyclone Tam, which wreaked havoc with heavy rain over Easter.Hotter oceans do not just affect marine creatures - they are linked to shrinking glaciers and wilder, wetter storms.Oceans absorb most of the excess heat that people are pumping into the climate system and without them, air temperatures over land would be hotter.But the seas are not heating evenly.A study led by top New Zealand climate scientist Dr Kevin Trenberth and others shows two circular bands of the ocean have been taking up more heat than the rest.One band is located about 40 degrees latitude south and the other is around 40 degrees latitude north."The pattern comes out to be quite striking and what we've found is that the biggest warming [in] the ocean is occurring in the middle latitudes near New Zealand's latitudes and also at comparable latitudes in the Northern hemisphere."The band with the strongest heating is the southern one where New Zealand sits, because southern latitudes have more ocean, so the effect is more pronounced.Dr Trenberth said the main reason is storm tracks and strong winds in the upper atmosphere shifting towards the poles and corresponding changes in ocean currents.He said while warmer seas helped us enjoy long fine summer weather, it is a different matter when weather systems start to get more active in autumn and winter.Flooding on State Highway 10 at Kāeo during ex-tropical Cyclone Tam in April. Photo: RNZ/Peter de Graaf"They start to encounter these warmer oceans and suddenly these warmer oceans put more water vapour into the atmosphere which fuels these storms. It means the rainfalls are a lot heavier and we've seen a couple of examples of that over the last two or three weeks, especially with ex-tropical Cyclone Tam."Dr Phil Sutton, an oceanographer at NIWA, said the latest study fits with what observers have been seeing in oceans around New Zealand for 30 years, and adds to their understanding by looking at both atmospheric changes and oceans.He said westerly winds have grown stronger and moved to the south, meaning water piles up in the South Pacific's subtropical gyre - a circular system he describes as being like a huge whirlpool - and gets warmer. The core of the changes is happening just northeast of New Zealand, he said.While the water around Antarctica is often a topic of concern, Dr Sutton said the study confirms that the ocean near us are heating much more rapidly."Not to say you shouldn't be highly concerned about even small changes down there, because even small changes could have a huge impact on forming ice, but there's not so much happening down there in fact [compared with New Zealand]."So New Zealand really is in a very interesting and challenging - interesting scientifically but perhaps concerning environmentally - spot in the world's oceans."Photo: NIWA / Luke McPakeDr Sutton has been studying a particularly unusual warming hotspot just south of Chatham Islands, where he said heating has gone "beserk" since 2015 and marine heat waves now persist for more than 200 days of the year."We seem to be seeing the first sign of systematic change around New Zealand, where those subtropical waters are pushing into an area where they didn't used to be," he said.He said his colleagues in fisheries want to know what that means for hoki and orange roughy fisheries in the area, but it was too soon to say.Dr Sutton was pleased to see that the latest study drew ocean temperatures from a programme of Argo floats, robotic instruments that drift in the ocean, measuring temperature and salinity in the upper 2000 meters."At the moment there are about 4100 floats operational around the world and New Zealand has been a big player with the US and Australia in deploying the floats. Around 890 or so of those were deployed by New Zealand, so we have an outsized contribution to maintaining that global array."You can sit at your desk and know what the ocean is doing."You used to have to get on a ship and ... you'd only know what was happening right where you took the ship."Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

Building on the positive news from Auckland's recent economic update, today’s labour market data offers more encouraging signs.Stats NZ has reported that unemployment remains steady at 5.1% for the March 2025 quarter, matching last quarter’s figures and outperforming predictions from Treasury and the Reserve Bank.The report also revealed that average hourly wages have risen by 4.5% over the past year, further highlighting the economic stability.Finance Minister Nicola Willis spoke on the results, emphasising the importance of continued fiscal discipline.She acknowledged that many are still feeling the strain of the economy but reassured that the upcoming Budget on May 22 will be a responsible step towards ensuring long-term economic growth.This ongoing positive trend is significant for the Hibiscus Coast community, with stable unemployment and wage growth benefiting local workers and businesses alike.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

Auckland’s economy continues its steady recovery, with several key indicators showing improvement as of March 2025.According to the Auckland Council’s Social and Economic Research and Evaluation Team, the median house price for the month was $1,040,000.While slightly above recent months, it remains 5% lower than a year ago and 31% below the peak seen in 2021.This signals that the housing market is stabilising, although still below its post-pandemic highs.For the year ending March 2025, the total number of houses sold reached 22,473.This marks a consistent rise over the last six months and is 23% higher than the low point of May 2023.However, it remains 38% below the peak reached in July 2021.The increase in sales, though still well below the highs of 2021, indicates a steady recovery and could mean a more balanced market in the coming months.Rents in Auckland have also remained stable, with the average weekly rent for February 2025 sitting at $685.This is comparable to the previous few months and similar to rent levels from one and two years ago, though still below the highs seen between 2017 and 2021.The rest of New Zealand saw an average weekly rent of $643, with only a modest 2% annual increase over the last five years.New housing developments have shown a modest increase as well. In the year ending March 2025, 14,049 new dwellings were consented, which is a 2% rise from February 2025.This marks the largest increase since 2022, though it remains 36% below the peak seen in September 2022.The construction of new homes is still lagging behind pre-Covid levels, but this increase may signal a shift towards recovery in the housing supply.Meanwhile, the real value of non-residential building consents stood at $2.39 billion for the year, showing a slight recovery from earlier months but still 22% lower than a year ago.This mirrors the cautious approach many developers are taking in the current economic climate.On the trade front, the value of imports through Auckland’s seaports for the year ending March 2025 was $30.5 billion, which represents a steady recovery from the Covid lows but is still 9% below the peak of April 2023.One bright spot is business confidence, which has been on the rise.The latest data from the New Zealand Institute of Economic Research (NZIER) shows that 31% of businesses expect the general business situation to improve in the next three months.This marks the third consecutive quarter of rising optimism, reaching its highest level in ten years.For Coasties, these economic updates hold several implications.The stability in housing prices and the steady sales figures could provide opportunities for those looking to buy or sell in the coming months.The property market, while still lower than the highs of 2021, is showing signs of resilience.Rent prices holding steady may also offer some relief to those navigating the rental market, as more people consider relocating to areas like Orewa and Silverdale, where housing is often more affordable than in central Auckland.In addition, with the rise in business confidence, local businesses on the Hibiscus Coast could benefit from a positive shift in consumer sentiment.The uptick in property sales and the construction of new homes could also lead to increased demand for services, making it a potentially good time for local enterprises to expand and attract new customers.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

Air New Zealand has revealed its fully redesigned 787-9 Dreamliner, offering a fresh, world-class cabin experience.Starting from today, May 7, customers can book seats on this cutting-edge aircraft, with its debut flight scheduled for Monday, May 19, flying from Auckland to Brisbane.The aircraft will also complete its inaugural long-haul flight from Auckland to San Francisco later that evening.This milestone marks the first-ever full retrofit of a 787-9 Dreamliner, a project that has taken over two years of research, innovation, and design.Air New Zealand CEO Greg Foran celebrated the launch, highlighting that this retrofit was completed in Singapore and reflects customer feedback along with New Zealand's unique design elements.For Coasties, this development means even more reason to look forward to travel, as the newly upgraded Dreamliner will soon be available on long-haul routes from Auckland, including to destinations like Brisbane and San Francisco."This is a new era of flying for Air New Zealand, with a cabin experience that captures the essence of Aotearoa in every detail—from the textures you touch to the space you relax in," Foran said.The aircraft features a reimagined cabin with an all-new Business Premier, Business Premier Luxe, Premium Economy, and Economy seating arrangements.Passengers can expect enhanced privacy, larger inflight entertainment screens, additional storage, and a more relaxed, comfortable flight experience.Business Premier Cabin. Photo: Supplied.Business Premier Luxe seat. Photo: Supplied.The retrofitting process will continue with the second aircraft in Singapore, and by the end of 2026, all 14 Boeing 787-9s in Air New Zealand's fleet will have this updated layout.New features include:Business Premier: New layout with increased privacy and space, sliding privacy screens, wireless charging, and larger 24" inflight entertainment screens.Business Premier Luxe: Premium seats with a full closing door, more space, and the option for two to dine together.Premium Economy: Fixed outer shell for seat recline without impacting others, added privacy, and more thoughtful storage.Economy: 50% bigger inflight screens, clever snack trays, and the Economy Stretch option for added comfort.Inflight Entertainment: 4K HD screens with Bluetooth pairing, mobile remote functionality, and Picture-in-Picture multitasking.The aircraft will fly predominantly on routes between Auckland and Brisbane, San Francisco, Rarotonga, and Vancouver, with more destinations to follow as retrofits are completed.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

A product recall has been issued for PPG Paints Easycoat Interior Walls Low Sheen White, sold at Bunnings between 13 March and 30 April 2025. Certain sizes of this product contain high levels of Benzisothiazolinone (BIT), which could pose a risk of skin sensitisation and irritation.Product Identifiers:283200/10L283200/15LIf you have purchased this product, immediately stop using it and return it to the place of purchase for a full refund. While handling the product, ensure to wear gloves and eye protection. After use, thoroughly wash your hands.This recall is an important safety measure, and we encourage all affected customers to take prompt action to avoid any health risks. For more information, please visit Bunnings or contact their customer service.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

A member of an Auckland flight training facility has left a message in the sky during a flight.On Flightradar24, the aircraft's flight path can be seen spelling out the message 'I love you'.A spokesperson for North Shore Aero Club confirmed one of their members, who did a lot of night flying, piloted the Alpha R2160 plane.The plane was flown over Auckland city and Warkworth on Monday night.Its pilot told RNZ they wished to remain anonymous."Not having flown at night in a while, I wanted to practise manoeuvres at night whilst writing a message that would make anyone smile."North Shore Aero Club said the pilot was not on its staff ,and worked for Island Aviation.Island Aviation has been approached for comment.

A Google search shows that there are at least 11 vape stores operating on the Hibiscus Coast.Despite recent legislation aimed at limiting youth access to vaping products, concerns are growing about the close proximity of these stores to local schools.New research, led by Ronan Payinda, a fourth-year medical student at the University of Auckland, reveals that 44% of schools are located within one kilometre of a specialist vape store, and 13% have one within just 300 metres. Payinda's study, published in the Australian and New Zealand Journal of Public Health on 7 May, shows that youth are being exposed to vape marketing and stores on a daily basis. He argues that this constant exposure puts young people at risk of developing nicotine addiction.Payinda, who witnessed the rise of vaping during his time at school in Northland, says Aotearoa New Zealand is not doing enough to address the health risks associated with vaping. Since 2020, it has been illegal to sell vapes to anyone under 18, but youth vaping rates remain concerning. In 2021, 26% of secondary school students reported having vaped in the previous week.Although legislation passed in 2023 bans new vape stores from opening within 300 metres of schools and marae, existing stores are still allowed to operate. Payinda calls for stronger regulations to prevent the next generation from becoming addicted to nicotine.The study also highlights a significant disparity in the location of vape stores. Among the wealthiest schools, only 7% had a specialist vape store within 300 metres, compared to 40% of schools in the poorest communities. This inequity exacerbates existing socio-economic disparities and increases the likelihood of young people in disadvantaged areas being exposed to vaping products.Research from the United States has shown that exposure to e-cigarette marketing in retail stores increases the likelihood of middle and high-school students using vapes. Payinda echoes these concerns, pointing to emerging evidence of long-term health risks associated with youth vaping, including lower lung function and increased susceptibility to respiratory diseases like asthma and chronic bronchitis.The findings from Payinda's study underscore the need for more stringent vaping regulations to protect young people from the harms of vaping and ensure they are not exposed to harmful products near their schools.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

A person has been killed in an Auckland motorway crash, as collisions near Harbour bridge and on SH20 caused long delays during the morning commute.The sole occupant of a car in a single-vehicle crash on the South-Western Motorway died at the scene on Tuesday morning, police said.Northbound lanes on State Highway 20 between Nielson Street and Hillsborough Road had reopened by 8am but long delays would ease only slowly, NZTA said.Meanwhile, a two-truck collision on the Northern Motorway on Tuesday morning was delaying southbound traffic as lanes were cleared.

Fresh Coast Jobs for Fresh Starts! Check out this week’s top picks for local roles—and share with a mate who’s looking!Ryman HealthcarePosition: Housekeeper - Part TimeLocation: OrewaEnsure pristine cleanliness in a dementia unit, supporting a welcoming environment.Enjoy team benefits including discounts, fixed hours, and career development opportunities.View the full listing & applyMitre 10 MEGAPosition: Paint & Hardware Team MemberLocation: SilverdaleAssist customers with paint colours, tools, and hardware productsHelp maintain tidy displays and restock shelvesView the full listing & applyCareer Tip of the Week:When revising your CV, ensure your personal brand shines through by including a brief summary at the top. Focus on your unique skills, achievements, and what sets you apart from other candidates.Help a friend discover their next career move—share these new opportunities with your network today!Need to hire fast? Get noticed locally.Reach thousands on the Coast for $97 + GST. Post your job today.Explore more local job openings on our jobs page.

Auckland Council’s plan to turn Takapuna's iconic golf course into a permanent wetland could result in millions of dollars in lost property value, according to property experts. The Council aims to replace the nearly century-old course with a wetland reservoir to manage stormwater during extreme weather. However, experts argue that a redesign preserving the golf course could offer flood protection and keep the community asset intact.International golf architect Kristine Kerr and engineers propose an alternative dry basin design that could meet the flood storage goals without disrupting the golf course. The new design would not require public notification, enabling quicker implementation and providing flood protection much earlier than the Council’s wetland proposal.The 18-hole North Shore course draws over 220,000 visitors annually, contributing significantly to Auckland’s tourism and sporting infrastructure. It offers year-round access for all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned players, and has helped launch the careers of top international stars like Dame Lydia Ko.Real estate expert Ben Macky from Sotheby’s International Realty warns that the loss of the course could decrease property values in Takapuna by up to 15%. With homes averaging nearly $2 million, that’s a potential loss of $194,000 per property, translating into millions of dollars in total value loss for the area. Ben Macky - International Realty.Macky highlights that properties backing onto the course or with views of the greens would likely be hit hardest, as these homes are typically the most valuable in the suburb.“This isn’t just about the view,” Macky explains. “It’s about the lifestyle and access to amenities like golf courses. People pay a premium for that, and removing the course would have a disproportionate impact on demand, slowing sales, and dampening market confidence.”Macky also draws on international research, which shows that homes adjacent to golf courses can command premiums of up to 26%. The removal of the Takapuna course, he warns, could have lasting effects on local businesses, homeowners, and property market dynamics.Takapuna Golf Club spokesperson Stephen Dowd says that the Council has not formally considered the alternative dry basin redesign put forward by the club. The design would allow the course to store over 550 million litres of floodwater while remaining playable, and it would include walking and cycling paths, native plantings, and new educational spaces for the public.Dowd points out that the golf course operates as a self-funding entity, contributing millions in rates and rental income to the Council over the next decade. Replacing the course with a wetland would shift maintenance costs to the Council and ratepayers, he says, creating a long-term financial burden.“The loss of this asset, along with the potential negative impact on surrounding property values, would be a massive cost to the ratepayer,” Dowd adds. “We have a practical, proven design that can preserve green space, support sport, and improve flood resilience without placing additional burdens on the public.”Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

We’ve all heard of the “elevator pitch” – a brief, persuasive summary of what you do, ideally delivered in under 30 seconds.But as we become more established in our businesses, we can sometimes fall into the trap of thinking this kind of pitch is only for newcomers or start-ups.That couldn’t be further from the truth.In reality, the elevator pitch remains one of the most valuable tools at any stage of your business journey.Whether you’re just starting out, pivoting, launching a new service, or looking to grow, being able to clearly and confidently articulate what you do – and why it matters – can open doors you didn’t even know were there.It’s not about reciting a script. A great elevator pitch is: • Clear and concise • Engaging and relevant • Natural, not robotic or salesyThink about it this way: if someone asked, “So, what do you do?” as the lift doors closed, would your answer keep them listening until the doors opened again?By the time you reach the 10th floor, the person beside you should understand your offering – and be interested in learning more.Even if you rarely find yourself in actual elevators, the idea is a metaphor.Opportunities to make an impression can happen anywhere: at networking events, business lunches, community gatherings, or even chance encounters in line for coffee. Being ready matters.Tips for Crafting a Strong Elevator Pitch1. Know Your GoalStart by being clear on what you want to achieve.Are you introducing your business? Promoting a new service? Attracting a strategic partner?You can create tailored versions of your pitch depending on the situation or audience.2. Focus on Solutions, Not Just ServicesDon’t simply list what you do.Instead, frame it around how you help. What problems do you solve? What outcomes do your clients or customers get from working with you?People remember stories and results, not job titles.Instead of saying: “I’m a plumber” …. say: “I help homeowners solve urgent plumbing issues quickly and reliably – so they can get back to normal without the stress and mess.”3. Highlight Your Unique Selling Proposition (USP)What sets you apart from others in your field? Is it your experience, your approach, your technology, or your values?This is your chance to stand out.Be authentic and confident about what makes you different.4. Engage with a QuestionA strong pitch invites conversation. End with an open-ended question that encourages a meaningful response.For example:
“How do you currently manage that aspect of your business?” or “Is that something you’ve come across in your industry?”Questions like these not only continue the dialogue but also show that you’re genuinely interested in the other person - not just pitching to them.5. Pull It All Together
Once you’ve written your pitch, read it out loud. Time yourself. It should be no longer than 30 seconds.Avoid jargon, clichés, or complicated explanations.You’re aiming for simple, relatable language that resonates.6. Practice Makes PerfectRehearse until it feels second nature. Say it to your mirror, record yourself on your phone, or test it on a colleague.The more you practice, the more naturally it will flow – especially under pressure.A Final TipAlways carry business cards or be ready to share your contact details.If your pitch lands well, make it easy for the other person to follow up.Want Help With Yours?Crafting the perfect pitch can be tricky—but it’s worth the effort.If you'd like help refining yours, or just want a fresh set of ears to test it on, feel free to get in touch. I'm always happy to help.

A state-of-the-art air ambulance helicopter has officially been commissioned, marking a significant leap in emergency medical response across Auckland and Northland.Announced by Associate Health Minister Hon Casey Costello and ACC Minister Scott Simpson, the Leonardo AW169 helicopter is now operational at Northern Rescue’s Ardmore base.“This new helicopter will greatly enhance the delivery of aeromedical services in our regions, making sure people get the best possible care, especially in challenging conditions,” said Ms Costello during her visit. The upgraded aircraft is part of the Government’s broader initiative to modernise New Zealand’s air ambulance fleet.The AW169 boasts modern design features that improve flight performance, boost safety and reliability, and elevate patient care during transport. Its introduction is part of a national programme to replace ageing helicopters with more advanced, efficient models.“This helicopter is the third of nine new or near-new aircraft set to join the national fleet in 2024/25,” Ms Costello explained. “We’re replacing outdated aircraft across the country, ensuring quicker and safer transport for those in need.”The fleet renewal programme, supported by Health New Zealand and ACC, will eventually cover regions including Waikato, Bay of Plenty, Hawke’s Bay, and Wellington, with two additional aircraft arriving in Northland by July.“The new helicopter is a vital asset in enabling fast and reliable care for patients in rural and remote areas, where every minute counts,” said Mr Simpson. The initiative, funded through ACC Investment debt financing, is expected to save around $500,000 annually.This significant investment is aimed at improving air ambulance operations and preparing for future needs. As part of the project, the Government is also working to optimise how these resources are used, ensuring better outcomes for communities across the country.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]