Shoppers blindly accepting credit card surcharges need to understand the full impact they can have over the course of a month or a year, particularly if they're allowed to compound, one investment adviser says.Credit card surcharges have become common as retailers try to recover the cost of increasing use of contactless payment technology.Use of the much cheaper eftpos network has fallen in recent years, as more shoppers opt for contactless debit and credit cards, as well as cards loaded on to phones.In January 2017, eftpos cards were used for about 40 percent of in-person payments.By July 2023, its share had fallen to about 22 percent.It has been estimated that New Zealanders are paying up to $90 million a year in surcharges.Late last year, the Commerce Commission issued a draft decision outlining plans to reduce interchange fees, which make up a large part of the service fees that businesses pay when they make or receive card payments.It said surcharges should be no more than 0.7 percent for contactless debit card payments and no more than 2 percent for credit card payments.Consumer NZ earlier this month said there was no guarantee that the commission's moves on interchange fees would reduce surcharges for customers, and they should be banned."Less thought would be required about what card to use, whether to swipe, insert or tap; what the surcharge amount is and whether there's a way to avoid the surcharge," spokesperson Jessica Walker said."You could just leave the house with your phone in your pocket, knowing you wouldn't have to pay a hefty surcharge for the convenience of not carrying any cards. A ban makes things simpler for merchants too."Jeremy Sullivan, an investment adviser at Hamilton Hindin Greene, said people might not think about how much of an impact even a 2 percent credit card surcharge could have.It could make even a theoretically "interest free" credit card a lot more expensive than paying with eftpos or cash."When compounded monthly, these charges result in an effective annual cost that is higher than expected."He said, assuming every payment made in a month had a 2 percent surcharge, over a year that was equivalent to the additional cost that would be incurred with an interest rate of 26.82 percent."A 2 percent credit card surcharge may seem small, but when capitalised on your monthly balance, it equates to an effective annualized cost of 26.82 percent - comparable to taking out a high-interest loan. Many consumers overlook these charges, yet they can significantly eat into disposable income over time."Obviously, there's not a surcharge on everything but every purchase that has a surcharge if it was 2 percent is an effective interest rate of 26 percent. If you were to take out a loan with a 26 percent per annum interest rate you'd be charged 2 percent a month."Even if it was a few hundred dollars a month it does start to eat into the money that you're wasting effectively."If someone was not clearing their balance each month and also paying 13.95 percent, a typical low-interest card rate, that could create an effective annual cost of 44.8 percent including the surcharges."Even if you take into account the rewards points or the interest free days if you're offsetting your mortgage there's still a material difference."Some of them are higher than 2 percent, I've seen them as high as 3. That doesn't take into account your card fees as well. They're designed to change people's behaviour, make people think why don't I just press the cheque option and save myself the money, but with payWave and so forth it makes it a bit more difficult."I can understand retailers doing it - if you're running a sushi shop like the one downstairs and being charged 2.5 percent, their margin's only 10 percent, so 25 percent of their profit's going out the door if they don't pass it on."Sullivan said other parts of the world had banned the charges."It wouldn't be unprecedented to say you can't do that. At the moment it's user pays. The convenience of payWave or using your phone doesn't really give you an option. That's something that needs to be opened up - can you use your phone to access a chequing account as opposed to it only being payWave?"

The Government is calling for bold ideas to help lower grocery prices for Kiwi shoppers—potentially even breaking up the country’s supermarket giants.Economic Growth Minister Nicola Willis has announced a formal Request for Information (RFI), seeking input from both local and international supermarket investors.The goal is to identify what changes are needed—legal, regulatory or otherwise—to allow new players to compete on a national scale and drive prices down.Minister Willis says Kiwi families are being let down by the current system, where just two companies—Foodstuffs and Woolworths—dominate the market.“Our current supermarket system isn’t working for Kiwi families,” she said.“Two dominant players are limiting competition, and shoppers are paying the price.”While previous reforms have aimed to improve things, the Minister believes they haven’t gone far enough.This new RFI asks potential challengers what’s holding them back and what the Government can do to help.At the same time, officials are working with external advisors to explore more significant options—including the possibility of breaking up existing supermarket chains to create space for more competition.No decisions have been made yet, but Minister Willis says if legislation is needed, she expects to bring proposals to Cabinet by mid-2025 and introduce a bill to Parliament by the end of the year.While change won’t happen overnight, this could be the first serious step toward more choice at the checkout, better prices, and fairer competition for Coast families.Got a local story?We’d love to hear it! Send your tips to [email protected]

Rugby coaches across the Coast are reminded that every squad must include at least one RugbySmart-accredited coach before the 2025 season kicks off.If you completed RugbySmart in 2024, you’re already covered—no need to attend again this year. Two local RugbySmart sessions are available this season:Wednesday 2 April, 6pm at Harbour SportMonday 28 April, 6pm at Harbour SportSpaces can fill quickly, so it’s best to register early to avoid any last-minute pressure. Staying current with accreditation ensures teams meet compliance requirements and coaches are equipped to lead safely and effectively.This is an important part of getting Coastie teams prepped and ready for a strong 2025 season.Got a local story?We’d love to hear it! Send your tips to [email protected]

This Sunday, 6 April, daylight saving time ends and clocks go back one hour at 3am, giving Coasties an extra hour of sleep. While the evenings will get darker earlier, the mornings will feel a little lighter—making it easier to get out of bed and get going.The shift in daylight can take some getting used to, but it also comes with its perks. That bonus hour of sleep can improve rest, support better routines, and help ease sleep struggles—especially for early risers or young families adjusting to the darker evenings. Kids, in particular, often find it easier to wind down when it’s already dark outside.Less daylight in the evenings doesn’t mean we need to retreat indoors completely. Lunchtimes become a golden window to head outside and soak up the sun. Just 10–15 minutes in natural light helps your body top up on vitamin D, which supports strong bones, muscle function and even mood—thanks to its role in producing serotonin. A stroll through the local shops, a walk along the beach or lunch in the park can do wonders.This seasonal shift can also be a good time for a gentle reset. Autumn and winter bring a slower rhythm, making it easier to find space for things that often get pushed aside. Night classes offer a way to focus on yourself or learn something new. Local libraries are stocked with fresh reads too—Whangaparāoa and Ōrewa Libraries both feature the Bestie Collection, a special shelf of popular books you can borrow straight away, no waiting.If you’re craving movement, try a new routine that suits the cooler weather. The Ōrewa Estuary Path is ideal for a weekend walk or after-school loop—bike, scooter, pram or skateboard friendly. On rainy days, Stanmore Bay Pool & Leisure Centre, Northern Arena in Silverdale, and other local gyms offer ways to stay active indoors.Whether it’s more sleep, more sunlight, or more time with loved ones, the end of daylight saving is a chance to rebalance. It’s a nudge to pause, breathe, and make the season work for you.Got a local story?We’d love to hear it! Send your tips to [email protected]

New Zealand's Formula One driver Liam Lawson says he is ready to go to work at Racing Bulls after his demotion from the top Red Bull team.Lawson was replaced last night by Yuki Tsunoda in a straight swap between the two Red Bull teams after struggling in the first two F1 events in Melbourne and Shanghai this season.Lawson has posted on Instagram about the change."Being a @redbullracing driver has been my dream since I was a kid, it's what I've worked towards my whole life. It's tough, but im grateful for everything that's brought me to this point. To every one of you who's stood by me, thank you for all the support it means the world.''Lawson also thanked the Racing Bulls team for their ''warm welcome"."I'm excited and ready to go to work at one of my favourite places."His post was topped by a photo of him as a youngster at school, with a report praising him for his ability to engage an audience.Lawson drove for the Racing Bulls last year before gaining promotion to be four-time world champion Max Verstappen's teammate in the Red Bull cars.Support for LawsonLawson's demotion has been a big talking point in Formula One, with many rushing to his defence.Among them was former Supercars champion New Zealander Scott McLaughlin, who now races on the Indy Car circuit in the United States.He didn't think Lawson had got a fair deal."Finally heads to Suzuka (venue for the Japanese Grand Prix next weekend) where perhaps he knows that track more than most on the calendar due to racing in Japan etc. But get's axed before it. It's a cruel sport, but I really don't think he was given a fair shot IMO.Announcing the change last night, Red Bull boss Christian Horner said: "It has been difficult to see Liam struggle with the RB21 at the first two races and as a result we have collectively taken the decision to make an early switch."We came into the 2025 season with two ambitions; to retain the world drivers' championship and to reclaim the world constructors' title and this is a purely sporting decision."We acknowledge there is a lot of work to be done with the RB21 and Yuki's experience will prove highly beneficial in helping to develop the current car," the Briton added."We welcome him to the team and are looking forward to seeing him behind the wheel of the RB21."Horner said Red Bull would do its best to look after Lawson."We have a duty of care to protect and develop Liam," he said."And together we see that after such a difficult start it makes sense to act quickly so Liam can gain experience, as he continues his F1 career with (the) Racing Bulls, an environment and a team he knows very well."Meanwhile, Verstappen has 'liked' an Instagram post by former F1 driver Giedo van der Garde criticising Red Bull for dropping Lawson.Verstappen's Dutch compatriot Van der Garde, who raced 19 times for now-defunct Caterham in 2013, said he was "getting a bit tired of" the narrative of having to deliver under pressure or face the consequences, Reuters reported."Yes, you gotta perform. Yes, the pressure is insane. But in my opinion this comes closer to bullying or a panic move than actual high athlete achievements," he said."They made a decision - fully aware - gave Liam two races only to crush his spirit."Don't forget the dedication, hard work and success Liam has put in his career so far to achieve the level where he is now... yes, he underperformed the first two races - but if anyone's aware of that it's himself."Van der Garde urged Lawson to "trust yourself, get your head up, prove them wrong".The swap with Tsunoda means Verstappen will have his third team-mate in four races in the Japan race.- RNZ Sport/Reuters

A name suppression hearing relating to the trio charged over the death of a woman found in Gulf Harbour has taken place at the High Court in Auckland.The body of 70-year-old Shulai Wang was found wrapped in a black rubbish bag in the water on 12 March, 2024.A man and two women were charged last November for her kidnapping and manslaughter.The man and one of the women also faced additional charges for perverting the course of justice, and giving false information to immigration officers.Their lawyer David Jones KC argued for continued name suppression on grounds of prejudice to a fair trial and extreme hardship.Justice Downs has reserved his decision.

New Zealand is facing a significant wasp surge this summer, with the highest recorded densities of common and German wasps globally.According to Professor Jacqueline Beggs from the University of Auckland, this rise in numbers can be attributed to a long, dry, hot summer, which has created the perfect conditions for wasps to thrive.Wasp populations tend to follow a cyclical pattern, and this year has marked a high point. While the increase in wasp numbers may seem alarming, Beggs points out that these pests have a considerable environmental impact, especially on native species and ecosystems. The wasp explosion in South Island beech forests is particularly concerning, as wasps feed on native insects and compete for resources with native birds, bats, and lizards.The influx of wasps is a serious environmental issue because they not only feed on protein but also consume sugary substances like nectar. University of Auckland Professor Jacqueline Beggs says exotic wasps do serious harm to native insects and birds.Beggs suggests that, despite the challenges, control measures are within reach. One successful strategy is the use of Vespex, a toxic bait that eliminates wasp nests within days. This method poses no risk to honeybees, as it uses animal protein to lure the wasps, while bees do not consume animal protein. The bait is delivered through stations, which help ensure that the poison remains safe for other species. However, Beggs also cautions against the use of homemade poisons, which may contain sugar and inadvertently harm bees or contaminate honey.Wasp nests, particularly larger ones, can be dangerous, as they are fiercely guarded by workers ready to sting. Professor Beggs advises that the best time to target wasp nests is between January and February when nests are at their peak. Destroying nests before they grow too large can prevent the exponential increase in numbers, which could lead to millions of wasps in just a couple of years. These nests can survive through winter, with multiple queens often taking refuge in them, further escalating the problem.Beggs also highlights that New Zealand is home to a variety of native wasp species, which are solitary and play important roles in the ecosystem. Unlike the invasive species, these native wasps do not pose a nuisance to humans. Despite the challenge of managing wasp populations, Beggs remains hopeful that with careful planning and timely action, it’s possible to mitigate the harm caused by these invasive pests.

Welcome to The Week That Was—your go-to recap of the most important news, stories, and updates for the Hibiscus Coast community.Aucklanders Urged To Save WaterRead moreBacking Morgan’s Refereeing DreamRead moreDevelopers Slam Halt on New Wastewater ConnectionsRead morePension Boost Coming Next WeekRead moreOrewa Beach Clean-UpRead moreStay ahead of the curve—get the latest Hibiscus Coast news delivered directly to your phone.Download the Hibiscus Coast App today and never miss a story!Got a local story?We’d love to hear it! Send your tips to [email protected]

Coasties heading south on SH1 next week will want to plan ahead.From 9pm Sunday 30 March to 5am Thursday 3 April, NZTA crews will be carrying out maintenance and slip repairs between the Silverdale interchange and Oteha Valley Road.Southbound lane restrictions will be in place both day and night.Traffic will be able to travel south at all times, but delays are possible.Drivers are asked to slow down and follow traffic management instructions.Increased noise is expected during the slip remediation work.In addition to this, work continues on the SH1 to Penlink connection. That project will require full closures in both directions between Oteha Valley Road and the Silverdale interchange:Tuesday 1 April to Thursday 3 AprilFrom 9pm each night to 5am the following morningThese upgrades are part of long-term improvements aimed at strengthening the resilience and safety of State Highway 1—particularly important as our local population continues to grow.While traffic will still be able to head south during the first phase, the later full closures mean overnight travellers should detour or delay trips if possible.For Coasties commuting into the city or returning home late, it's a good idea to double-check travel times before setting off.Got a local story?We’d love to hear it! Send your tips to [email protected]

An Auckland Councillor is concerned about the impact of wastewater system constraints on residents.Watercare said there were only 4000 more wastewater connections available in the Hibiscus Coast in northern Auckland before the Army Bay Treatment plant reached capacity.Last year, Watercare revealed developments in the area which were not resource consented by 15 November would be unable to connect to the wastewater network until the plant is upgraded in 2031.Councillor John Watson said Watercare's plans to invest $13.8 billion in long-term infrastructure was necessary, but in the meantime, the utility needed to address constraints on connecting to the wastewater system in the area."This is an emergency situation and they have to find out in the interim how they're not going to destroy the financial wellbeing of people who have purchased sections and have been paying rates for years."It's great they [Watercare] are going to invest for the future but what are they going to do here and now to make sure property owners in the Hibiscus Coast aren't penalised."He said halting developments for seven years would have disastrous impacts on areas like Milldale."This came out of the blue for developers and certainly individual property owners."Some big developers managed to secure connections that may kick them over for a number of years but ordinary citizens face real uncertainty over whether they will be able to connect and therefore build a house or sell a property.""It's totally unsatisfactory that that level of constraint wasn't identified and communicated earlier."Watercare chief executive Dave Chambers acknowledged wastewater constraints were a problem in places like the Hibiscus Coast.He said most of Auckland could be connected to the wastewater network, but they needed to catch up in some areas as Auckland's population grew rapidly."I don't make any apologies that when the pipes are full they're full."We need to do the upgrades to provide more capacity but if we just continue to connect more people the pipes will overflow into the harbours, streams, and waterways which is also unacceptable."He said Hibiscus Coast as well as Waitākere, Ōtara, and Beachlands were the areas that were the most constrained.

Looking for a fun and feel-good way to spend your Saturday? Sustainable Coastlines and Tip Top Trumpet are inviting everyone to Orewa Beach on Saturday, 5 April from 9:30 to 12:00 for a community beach clean-up — and yes, there will be free ice cream.It’s a free, family-friendly event that’s all about giving back to the beautiful moana we all love. Volunteers will gather from 9:30, head out to tidy up the beach together, and then enjoy a well-earned treat at the end: cold drinks thanks to Phoenix Organics and delicious Trumpet ice creams from the event sponsor. Whether you're flying solo or bringing the whole whānau, you're warmly encouraged to come along.To help organisers with planning and updates, you’ll need to register in advance. That way, they can send you all the details for the day, and get in touch in case anything changes — like if the weather takes a turn.You’ll need to bring closed-toed shoes (hiking boots or gumboots are best), sun-smart gear, a raincoat just in case, and a full reusable drink bottle. Don’t forget your camera, and if you’ve got an old mobile phone lying around, bring it along for recycling.Everything else is sorted. Gloves, sacks, sunscreen, sanitiser, first aid support, and even rubbish removal will all be provided. The vibe is relaxed, welcoming, and positive — and there’s nothing like a bit of teamwork to make you feel part of something good.So, if you love Orewa and want to help keep our beach looking its best, this is a great way to spend a morning. You’ll walk away with sandy shoes, a happy heart, and a sweet treat in hand.Got a local story?We’d love to hear it! Send your tips to [email protected]

Auckland councillors have voted to endorse a redevelopment of Eden Park in a debate over the future of the city's stadiums.Councillors spent Thursday afternoon weighing up the Eden Park proposal - which would ask for $100 million of public money from government - or a brand new waterfront stadium precinct.All but two councillors voted to give the Eden Park 2.0 project the green light to develop a business case.Councillor Shane Henderson, who led the working group, said there had been decades of debate on the stadium and Aucklanders would be glad to see a decision.Councillor John Watson said a decision on Thursday may not seal the deal for a future stadium if the proposals don't have financial backing.The two proposals to be voted on today both rely on public funding.But Watson said Auckland Council is not putting any money into the proposals and will have no part in the planning or future running of a stadium.Councillors want the government to provide funding, however, Minister for Auckland Simeon Brown said the government's focus was freeing up planning and consenting red tape.Official advice from council staff is far from confident in the proposals - with both not feasible without significant public funding, they have concluded.Eden Park Trust welcomed the council's endorsement for an updated stadium over a new waterfront project.Eden Park Trust Board chairperson Kereyn Smith said the decision was important for Auckland and the future of the country's national stadium.The outcome meant Eden Park would be able to respond to the needs of Aucklanders and New Zealanders alike, Smith said.

Looking for plans? Explore events happening soon on the Hibiscus Coast and start planning your next activity!South African SOKKIE NIGHTFri 28 MarMore detailsThe Hibiscus Quiz NightFri 04 AprMore detailsSilverdale Pioneer FestivalSat 05 AprMore 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!

New Zealand’s supermarket duopoly is under fresh scrutiny following remarks by Finance Minister Nicola Willis, who said she was open to offering “VIP treatment” to any foreign chain willing to enter the market.But an expert trio—Drew Franklin from the University of Auckland and Lisa M. Katerina Asher and Catherine Sutton-Brady from the University of Sydney—says locals shouldn’t hold their breath for a global brand like Aldi.It could take five years or more for an overseas player to set up a nationwide chain in New Zealand.No international operator has yet expressed interest publicly, and past examples like Kaufland and Costco show just how slow and costly that process can be.Instead, the researchers say the solution lies closer to home.Business School senior marketing lecturer, Drew Franklin.They argue that the government should focus on breaking up the current major players—Woolworths NZ and the Foodstuffs cooperatives—into smaller, more competitive companies.“It’s a quicker way to reintroduce competition and bring prices down,” said Franklin.The Foodstuffs group, which operates New World, PAK’nSave, and Four Square, currently runs as two separate companies—one in the North Island, one in the South.Despite being legally distinct, they’ve admitted to sharing information and avoiding competition in each other’s regions.Past mergers have led to the current lack of choice, the experts say, and legislative change could now reverse that trend.Adopting similar rules to those in the UK or US would allow the government to force supermarket divestments—splitting up large operators into smaller entities.For Coasties feeling the pinch at the checkout, this shift could open the door to more affordable options—sooner rather than later.Got a local story?We’d love to hear it! Send your tips to [email protected]

Your weekend weather at a glance.Coasties, here’s what the next four days have in store:Friday, 28/3 Partly cloudy. Fairly breezy Sou'West winds.High: 23Low: 13Saturday, 29/3Showers. Fairly breezy East to Sou'East winds.High: 22Low: 17Sunday, 30/3Partly cloudy. Fairly breezy Nor'East winds.High: 23Low: 15Monday, 31/3Mostly cloudy. Fairly breezy East to Nor'East winds.High: 23Low: 16Looking for more 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!

AUT Professor of Public Health Dr Grant Schofield has launched a petition calling for major reform of New Zealand’s health system, aiming to collect 100,000 signatures over the next three months.The petition, directed to the Prime Minister, Minister of Health, and Minister for Sport and Recreation, argues for a nationwide pivot from disease treatment to prevention and lifestyle-based care.Dr Schofield, who also leads the Human Potential Centre, says the country is heading in the wrong direction."Chronic illness, mental health issues, and rising medication use are outpacing solutions. Prevention and lifestyle support should be front and centre."The petition outlines a bold policy agenda:15% of the health budget for chronic disease prevention5% for mental health servicesTax measures targeting ultra-processed foodsGP “social prescribing” for non-drug therapiesA taskforce to track and report on progressBacked by stark statistics, the petition highlights that:1 in 3 Kiwi adults are obese5% live with type 2 diabetesOnly 1 in 10 eat enough vegetables93% of kids don’t meet daily activity targetsMental health service use is up 73% in 10 yearsThe call to action stresses community-based initiatives, greater public accountability, and a stronger focus on the root causes of poor health.Dr Schofield says, “We’re not just talking about a policy tweak. We need a shift in thinking—away from reactive treatment and towards real prevention.”If successful, the policy could support more health coaches, boost transparency in policy decisions, and improve outcomes across the board.For Coasties, it’s a reminder that our national health policies directly affect local lives—from school lunchboxes to how often we see our GP.Got a local story?We’d love to hear it! Send your tips to [email protected]

The Government's sentencing reforms passed their final reading, with Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith stating that these changes will ensure serious criminals face longer sentences. The reforms come as a direct response to the alarming increase in violent crime, including ram raids and aggravated robberies, and address the growing public concern over shorter prison sentences being handed down by the courts despite this rise in crime.Goldsmith pointed out that, in recent years, courts have imposed fewer and shorter prison sentences, despite the increasing rates of violent crime. Under the new reforms, judges will be limited in the sentence discounts they can apply, with a cap set at 40%. Repeat offenders, particularly youth, will no longer be able to rely on lenient sentences based on their youth or expressions of remorse without making efforts to reform their behaviour.One of the key changes in the reforms is the introduction of an aggravating factor for crimes committed against workers in sole charge positions or those whose home and business are interconnected. This is intended to better protect frontline workers. For communities across New Zealand, this measure is expected to have a significant impact, especially in areas where small business owners and essential workers are often the most vulnerable targets of crime.Additionally, the reforms include measures to ensure that offenders who continue criminal activities while on bail, in custody, or on parole face cumulative sentencing, which helps to denounce their disregard for the justice system. This is particularly important for local communities, where repeat offenders can cause lasting harm to neighbourhood safety and well-being.The reforms also encourage earlier guilty pleas by offering discounts of up to 25%, with the discount decreasing as the plea is entered later in the process. This change aims to reduce unnecessary trials that are costly and stressful for victims, making the justice system more efficient and supportive for those impacted by crime.Furthermore, the reforms introduce two new aggravating factors: one for adults who exploit children or young people to commit crimes, and another for offenders who glorify their criminal activities by livestreaming or posting them online. These changes will not only protect vulnerable individuals but also help prevent the normalisation of crime in local communities.Goldsmith reaffirmed that the Government is committed to reducing violent crime, with a target to have 20,000 fewer victims of violent crime by 2029. The reforms are also part of an effort to reduce serious repeat youth offending by 15%, directly benefiting communities affected by repeat offenders and helping to restore public confidence in the justice system.These sentencing reforms are expected to have a positive impact across New Zealand, particularly in areas where violent crime and repeat offending have left communities feeling unsafe.By strengthening penalties for serious offenders, the Government aims to reduce crime rates and ensure that victims have more confidence in seeing justice served.Got a local story?We’d love to hear it! Send your tips to [email protected]

Despite Auckland Council saying neither proposal for a CBD stadium or upgraded Eden Park is viable, some councillors are confident they will pick an option.Councillors will vote on Thursday whether to endorse one of the two competing stadiums.A report released on Tuesday said both of the stadium proposals were not viable for different reasons but primarily because they were considered unfeasible without public funding.But ​Waitākere Ward councillor Shane Henderson, who is leading the council's stadiums working group, is still confident they will end the decades long stadium debate."I am suggesting by the end of Thursday we will have a preferred stadium option for Auckland."I think the public would prefer us to pick one," Henderson said.The fact both proposals would rely on public funding is an aspect that has disappointed the ​Waitākere councillor."We've been very clear with this process that rate payers funding is not on the table, that remains our position."To have a report that says they'd be seeking it is disappointing because honestly, we're saying it's not on the table and you need to look at other sources."Henderson said they could still put forward a preferred option and that he was leaning towards Eden Park.Manukau Ward councillor Alf Filipaina said amendments could be made during Thursday's presentation to councillors."Well, I mean the opportunity is there."The presentation will be put in front of us then there'll be questions."And then you starting looking at, I wonder what people are going to do, and that's when the amendments may come up."You may find they may change, I don't know, I haven't spoken to any of the other councillors or [Mayor] Wayne Brown or his office."But Filipaina said Auckland Council "needs to come to a decision" after decades of debate around Auckland's stadium strategy that stretches back to 2006."I recall there was a meeting in Pukekohe in 2012 around stadia and this is in this Auckland Council's time and I remember that."Yes, it is time," he said."I hope we make a decision because we come to move forward instead of going backwards here, do this, do that, we just need to make a plan around the stadia."And in particular around the two which are going to be presented on Thursday."Eden Park's so-called 2.1 upgrade would include a retractable roof and increased seating.It was "technically feasible, but is not currently financially feasible because it relies on significant public funding," advisors said in the report."We can stage that build and in their case it's purely a financial issue and for me it's more viable," Henderson said.The winning proposal will need a simply majority from the 20 councillors and the mayor."There is a chance there's a draw, after two long years of work but I'm strongly suggesting to my colleagues that we do pick a lane because Aucklanders are kind of sick of this after decades of debate."They want us to have an option that we can say this is our one and we're moving forward," Henderson said.The central Auckland option, Te Tōangaroa, is an ambitious $1 billion proposal for a new 55,000 seat stadium in Quay Park.But the council's early report said Te Tōangaroa "had not demonstrated that their proposal was technically or commercially feasible at this stage" and had suggested it needed more time to do so.​Waitematā and Gulf ward councillor Mike Lee said despite the Te Tōangaroa being in his ward, he did not think debate around Auckland's stadiums should be a priority."Auckland and its ratepayers have much more important priorities in terms of infrastructure, transport, water and waste water, to be sparing money on these stadiums."We have a perfectly serviceable stadium in Eden Park... it may need extra spending but I don't believe that spending is a priority for the people of Auckland right now."We've already been told that Auckland has more stadia that it actually needs and yet we have these proposals which are costing millions, perhaps hundreds of millions of dollars," Lee said.

From 1 April 2025, the inner Hauraki Gulf will be closed to all commercial and recreational spiny rock lobster fishing for three years, in a bid to help rebuild declining numbers.Oceans and Fisheries Minister Shane Jones confirmed the decision following concerns raised by locals and fishery-independent research showing a drop in the lobster population.“Locals have raised serious concerns about the decline of spiny rock lobster... and I share these concerns,” Minister Jones said.The temporary closure is part of Fisheries New Zealand’s regular review of catch limits and sustainability settings across the country. The affected area stretches from Cape Rodney–Okakari Point Marine Reserve down to Point Jackson Bay on the Coromandel Peninsula.Alongside rebuilding lobster stocks, the measure is expected to have a knock-on effect on the marine environment. Rock lobsters are natural predators of kina, and their recovery could help control kina numbers and reduce the spread of kina barrens—bare, degraded seabeds caused by kina overgrazing.Minister Jones has also ruled out any increase in catch limits in the wider Hauraki Gulf lobster fishery, stating current settings should allow for continued stock recovery. In Otago, catch settings have also been adjusted with a cautious focus on long-term sustainability.Meanwhile, changes have been made to Pacific bluefin tuna catch limits. Following international agreement through the Western Central Pacific Fisheries Commission, New Zealand’s allocation has increased. As a result, the total catch limit for this year has been raised by 84 tonnes, with a further 6.5-tonne increase set for the 2025–26 fishing year.Minister Jones acknowledged the input from tangata whenua, recreational and commercial fishers, environmental groups and the public, noting that their feedback played an important role in shaping the final decisions.For Coasties who fish recreationally or enjoy local seafood, the rock lobster ban may come as a disappointment—but it’s aimed at ensuring a healthy future fishery for years to come.Got a local story?We’d love to hear it! Send your tips to [email protected]