Welcome to The Week That Was.Your go-to recap of important news, stories, and updates for the Hibiscus Coast community.Gatmans Closes After Liquidation, Coasties Lose StapleRead more →If Auckland Mayor Quits, Who Steps In?Read more →Have Your Say: Faster NX2 Via PenlinkRead more →Late-Night Crime Spurs Orewa Community ActionRead more →Coasties Urged To Report Suspected HornetsRead more →Your Coast. Your news. Your app.Download the Hibiscus Coast App for instant local updates. Anytime, anywhere.

Beauty salons and nail parlours are in the sights of immigration staff and labour inspectors after fears some are linked to organised crime and money laundering operations.Compliance teams from the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment have launched a crackdown on rogue employment practices across much of the North Island.Seventeen site visits have already taken place following a rise in complaints about beauty-sector businesses.The unannounced visits are targeting nail salons, massage parlours and beauticians and will continue over the coming months.The Labour Inspectorate said it is also gathering intelligence from the operation to inform future work in the sector.Central region compliance manager, Margaret Meafua, said Operation Antic aimed to disrupt organised crime and prevent harm."I would say the beauty sector has been prioritised due to a growing number of complaints and referrals received by the Labour Inspectorate in recent years, particularly what we're seeing in the Waikato and Wellington regions," she said."Particularly around employment entitlements, getting the minimum wage, deductions, record keeping, which will form part of what we look at when we do go out on our visits."Intelligence has suggested it could be linked to other types of non-compliance, including organised crime, money laundering, and trafficking. But at the moment, that's what we're trying to establish through this initiative."This is about ensuring fair treatment for workers and a level playing field for businesses doing the right thing, she said.Potential consequences for companies found in breach include infringement and improvement notices, enforceable undertakings, and penalties through the Employment Relations Authority.Staff would also provide education and support to help businesses understand their obligations.Meafua said the MBIE teams were assessing the data collected during the Wellington visits and at this stage cannot provide details of issues of concern identified."Our teams will have a clearer picture of areas where non-compliance most needs to be addressed once this data has been processed and analysed."

Hibiscus Coast drivers heading north next week face full SH1 closures over the Brynderwyn Hills for resurfacing across two 4-day super weekends, keeping the route in top shape before summer.The highway shuts from 12:01am Thursday, November 13 to 11:59pm Sunday, November 16, then again from 12:01am Thursday, November 20 to 11:59pm Sunday, November 23.It reopens in both directions for three days between closures, from Monday, November 17 to Wednesday, November 19.Light vehicles can detour via Mangawhai using Cove Road between Kaiwaka and Waipū.Trucks and trucks with trailers up to 50MAX tonnes can use Paparoa Oakleigh Road between Brynderwyn and Oakleigh.The preferred heavy-vehicle route is via SH12 and SH14 through Dargaville, which HPMVs must use.The car detour adds about 20 minutes.Night works to prepare the road run 8:00pm Wednesday, November 5 to 5:00am Thursday, November 6, with a contingency of 8:00pm Sunday, November 9 to 5:00am Monday, November 10 if needed.The closure area runs from the SH1/SH12 intersection on the south side to the bottom of the hill on the north side near Waipū Gorge Road, with clear detour signage in place.“Strong, reliable roading links with Auckland and the rest of the country are essential for our region’s growth,” says Paul Linton of Northland Inc.NZTA will run crews 24/4 during closures to complete full-width asphalt, reinstate markings and passing lanes, and return the route to 80km/h.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

Auckland Airport will open a full-format Victoria’s Secret next year.The airside store in the international terminal will be New Zealand’s only Victoria’s Secret, with best-selling bras, signature fragrances, body care, underwear, sleepwear, and apparel.It’s the first step in a wider refresh of Auckland Duty Free, with redesigned spaces, more brands, tasting and testing zones, and new runway views staged through 2026.Preparation starts next month and main works begin in January 2026, so travellers may see some stores move while refits happen.For Hibiscus Coast locals flying through AKL, this means more choice for last-minute gifts and travel treats, alongside recent arrivals like Boh Runga Jewellery, Aotea, and UGG Express, plus an upgraded food court with extra seating and chargers.Bluebells Cakery has also opened at the domestic terminal.Coasties can expect a more modern, browse-worthy experience before they fly, with Auckland Airport hinting at more dining and dwell upgrades to come.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

From 22 May 2025, NZ businesses can claim an extra 20% deduction in year one when they buy a new depreciable asset (often called the “Investment Boost”).You still depreciate the remaining 80% at the normal IRD rate.It’s not free money—it simply brings forward a slice of future deductions to help cash flow now, with a potential clawback later if you sell above book value.What qualifies (in plain English): New business assets like machinery, tools, equipment, and many fit-outs.Not second-hand purchases.Commercial buildings can qualify for the 20% upfront deduction even though they don’t usually depreciate.Quick example: Buy a new machine for $100,000.In year one you can deduct $20,000 immediately.The remaining $80,000 is depreciated as usual over time.At a 28% tax rate, that upfront 20% could trim this year’s tax by $5,600—but remember, if you later sell above its book value, some or all of that benefit may be taxed back as depreciation recovery.Tips to get it right: Keep invoices and an asset register; confirm the asset is new and used for business; factor the bigger year‑one deduction into provisional tax planning; and before signing, check the sale and purchase terms (including any chattels values) so tax treatment matches reality.This is general advice only so always consult a Chartered Accountant to get advice on your situation.At David Hooper Chartered Accountants, we help local businesses make smart financial decisions. Get in touch today at [email protected] or call us on 09 421 1635.

Biosecurity New Zealand is asking Aucklanders on the North Shore to stay alert for yellow-legged hornets, a first-time find in New Zealand that matters because these predators threaten honeybee and wild bee populations.“We’ve had a fantastic response so far from the public to our request for help with surveillance. To date, we’ve received more than 1,000 notifications via email and phone with no new confirmed finds since the weekend,” says Mike Inglis, North commissioner, Biosecurity New Zealand.Since Friday, October 17, four queen hornets have been confirmed and their nests safely removed.Three were detected in Glenfield and one in Birkdale, about 1.3 km from the initial detection in Glenfield.To support surveillance, 120 traps are being laid in targeted areas where females have been found.“This is the first time we’ve found yellow-legged hornets in New Zealand. We responded quickly to this threat, but we continue to need the public’s help to eliminate any further risk,” Mr Inglis says.He noted other countries manage the pest, but New Zealand aims to keep it out.Members of the public are asked to report suspected hornets or nests only if they have a specimen, a clear photo, or a possible nest location.Reports can be made at report.mpi.govt.nz or by calling 0800 809 966. Learn more here.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

The Orewa Beach Business Association is bringing Police, Compliance, and social support agencies together with the business community after a run of 2025 incidents.The aim is clear.Get a shared picture of current policing in Orewa, understand how agencies are working together, and find simple ways to stay better connected with shop owners.Concern has grown over rising property offences, several suspicious fires, and deliberate arson affecting cafés.Data shows most burglaries and thefts in Auckland suburbs, including Orewa, happen late at night or early morning, usually 10 pm to 4 am, and again from 3 pm to 6 pm, with weekends busier.Coasties can expect a friendly, practical chat focused on what’s working, what needs fixing, and how to keep staff and shopfronts safe.This meeting is a practical step to get everyone at the same table.The wider community are urged to report any suspicious behaviour in Orewa.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

Making plans? Here’s what’s coming up around the Hibiscus Coast. From live music and local markets to family fun and outdoor adventures.DJ music Party featuring DJ Countess CaliFri 7 NovClick here for more detailsPre-Loved Fashion & Thrift MarketSat 8 NovClick here for more detailsThe Retro Event Volume 6Sat 8 NovClick here for more detailsFind more things to do anytime in the Hibiscus Coast App, your local hub for events, food, and fun.Have an event coming up? List it free today.

The Blues named a 38-player squad for the 2026 Super Rugby Pacific season, blending returning stars with first-year signings and a strong homegrown core.Head coach Vern Cotter confirmed hooker Bradley Slater and prop Flyn Yates bolster the front row, with Malachi Wrampling and Terrell Peita adding energy to the loose forwards.The pack is anchored by Patrick Tuipulotu, Sam Darry, Dalton Papali’i, Ofa Tu‘ungafasi, Hoskins Sotutu and 2025 Blues Player of the Year Joshua Fusitu’a.Darry (shoulder) and Tu‘ungafasi (neck) are set for long-awaited returns after missing most of last season.In the backs, five newcomers feature.Midfielder Pita Ahki returns from Toulouse, North Harbour fullback Kade Banks is back after a year away, and youngsters Rico Simpson, James Cameron and Cody Vai sign on.“All Blacks first-five Beauden Barrett returns to steer a backline with pace, creativity and experience,” Cotter said.“We’ve retained the core of our forwards unit while adding some exciting young players who will bring real energy and hunger to the group. The mix of talent gives us flexibility in how we want to play.”Cotter said more than two-thirds of the squad developed within the region, reinforcing continuity and competition for places ahead of the new campaign.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

New Zealand becomes the 49th Michelin Guide destination in mid-2026, with Auckland included, lifting jobs and visitor spend.Tourism and Hospitality Minister Louise Upston said inspectors are already dining anonymously, with first selections and potential star ratings due next year.“Receiving selection into the Michelin Guide is a prestigious accolade, with its strong international following,” Louise Upston said.Tourism New Zealand estimates Michelin’s arrival could bring up to 36,000 extra international visitors, supported by research showing “trying local cuisine” is the top interest for people considering a holiday here.The inaugural edition will cover four destinations: Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, and Queenstown.Photo: Michelin Guides. Upston said the announcement follows a recommendation from the hospitality sector’s 2024 summit and signals government support for growth.She added that Michelin sees New Zealand as “an exciting gastronomic destination, with exceptional restaurants.”For the Hibiscus Coast, Auckland’s inclusion puts world-class dining within easy reach, while extra visitor spending is expected to support small businesses and hospitality jobs across the region.Read more about the History of the Michelin Guide here.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

Coasties, here’s what the next four days have in store:Friday, 7/11Cloud clears to fine with a nor’easter easingHigh: 23Low: 16Saturday, 8/11Partly cloudy with a shower risk and a developing nor’easterHigh: 23Low: 17Sunday, 9/11Mostly cloudy with a few showers, easterly turning northerlyHigh: 23Low: 16Monday, 10/11Occasional rain with northerlies turning westerlyHigh: 23Low: 16See the full Weather & Travel section in the Hibiscus Coast App for:🌊 Tide times🌬️ Wind conditions🌊 Wave updates🌞 UV levels🏖️ Safe swimming spots...and plenty more.The Hibiscus Coast App has everything you need, accessible at any time and from any location.

Urgent recall for People4ocean SPF 50+ Mineral Bioactive Shield Lightly Tinted Cream.MBIE says preliminary testing shows the product’s SPF is unlikely to match the label, increasing sunburn risk and reducing long-term protection against skin cancer.If you’ve got any batch, don’t use it.Return it to the place of purchase for a refund or contact customer service to arrange a return and refund.Anyone worried about use should speak to their doctor.The product was sold from February 2024 to September 2025 via Holistic Aesthetics and Advanced Cosmeceuticals.People4ocean confirms a low SPF rating raises sunburn risk and says customers can return affected product for a refund.Coasties can expect stores to handle returns promptly, though keep proof of purchase if you have it.Check bathroom cabinets, let friends know, and replace with a trusted SPF product that meets your needs.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

Most small businesses on the Hibiscus Coast advertise to win new customers, yet many don’t know which channels actually bring them in.Here's a quick test.When someone calls to buy a gift voucher, does your team ask the single most important question: “What made you call us today?”If not, you’re spending in the dark. Stop guessing and start growing.Digital channels like the Hibiscus Coast App and social platforms make tracking straightforward.Many other formats don’t.Advertising where “everyone else does” is a herd effect that can drain budget.Treat marketing like stock or suppliers. It’s an investment, so it needs proof it pays.What to track every timeCapture the source on every enquiry.Ask “How did you hear about us?” on calls, contact forms, and at the counter.Log answers in a simple spreadsheet or your POS notes.Tally phone calls, emails, website visits, and walk-ins by source each week.Don’t chase perfect. Consistent beats complex.What the numbers unlockYou’ll see which channels bring first-time customers and which drive repeat visits.Shift spend from weak performers to the few that deliver.Your team will learn which headlines and images earn clicks and calls.Over a quarter, this lowers cost per lead, smooths bookings, and gives clear yes or no answers on where to show up next.When you know where customers come from, you stop marketing blind and grow on purpose.Your local attention platformThe Hibiscus Coast App is a dedicated, trackable, hyperlocal way to reach people nearby and see what converts.40,892 active Auckland users, including 5,000+ on the Hibiscus Coast, and 52,256 unique readers across New Zealand.We remove the hassle of digital ads, reduce your workload, and raise your visibility.The audience are local professionals, homeowners, and families with real spending power.They invest in services, shopping, dining, fitness, and family activities.The 40+ age group is our largest segment, with strong buying power and a bias to support local.We can partner with you on a targeted plan that gets your business noticed by the right people every day.If you want a simple plan that reaches locals and keeps your brand visible around the clock, let us help you build a campaign on the Hibiscus Coast App.Two things you can do today1). Start your free marketing health checkTakes 2 minutes.Start your free marketing health check2). Contact us to plan a simple campaignTell us your goal. We will map the next steps.Contact us

Unemployment edged up to a near nine-year high as businesses halted hiring, but slack in the jobs market increased, and wage growth slowed further.Stats NZ numbers showed the unemployment rate rising to 5.3 percent in the three months ended September, from 5.2 percent in the previous quarter. The data was largely in line with expectations.Unemployment has been steadily rising as business either sacked staff or stopped hiring because of the weak economy, while the workforce has increased despite a slowdown in migration.The actual number of unemployed was 160,000, the highest since early 1994.The number of unemployed for more than a year was 22,700 or 14.5 percent.The level of underutilisation, including the unemployed and under-employed and a measure of slack in the jobs market, rose to 12.9 percent from 12.8 percent, the highest rate since late 2020.The number employed was unchanged from the previous quarter, but the economy lost 18,000 jobs over the past 12 months.The level of unemployment of young people between 15 and 24 years was 15.2 percent, with the total not in education or training rising to 13.8 percent.The regions with the highest unemployment were Northland, Auckland and Waikato with rates of more than 6 percent, with all South Island regions below 5 percent.The broad measure of wages showed overall growth slowing to a five year low of 2.1 from 2.4 percent, compared with a 3 percent rise in consumer prices.The data was close to Reserve Bank forecasts and is likely to support another 25 basis point cut in the official cash rate to 2.25 percent later this month.Analysts were expecting that the unemployment figures would nudge up to 5.3 percent, compared with 5.2 percent in the previous June quarter.Last year's recession and the weak economy have resulted in businesses not hiring and, in some cases, laying off staff.Finance Minister Nicola Willis told Morning Report today unemployment was always the last thing to correct in a recovering economy.She said the government was growing the economy and business confidence with things like tax relief, and big infrastructure spending.

Auckland Transport is seeking local feedback on two Hibiscus Coast projects.A new bus station is proposed at the Penlink and Whangaparāoa Road intersection to extend the NX2 rapid service, aiming for trips up to 20 minutes quicker to the city with better links to Red Beach, Albany and the City Centre.Designs will be shared for community input in 2026, but funding to build is not yet confirmed.The station would serve Whangaparāoa within the Hibiscus and Bays Local Board, connecting Gulf Harbour and Matakatia to Stanmore Bay and Red Beach.Benefits include more reliable journeys, lower petrol and parking costs, and fewer cars on the road, with one full bus potentially replacing 30 to 40 vehicles.Locals might see quicker, easier city trips if plans proceed.AT is inviting comments now, with the survey open until Sunday, December 7.AT is also reviewing parking in Silverdale town centre and wants to hear from businesses about what works, what does not, and ideas to improve supply and turnover.Have your say about parking supply and demand in Silverdale, here.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

A NZ$500,000 manuka honey vessel debuts in France, claiming the world’s priciest jar.New Zealand brand Naki is unveiling its limited-edition Eternal Gold collection at the New Zealand Liberation Museum – Te Arawhata in Le Quesnoy, blending art, heritage and science into a collectible designed to last.The series is inspired by archaeologists finding 3,000-year-old honey in Egyptian tombs.“Honey is the only natural, ready-to-eat food that doesn’t perish,” said Derek Burchell-Burger, Naki’s GM sales and marketing, who wants a “legacy piece that could be passed down through generations.”Each vessel holds ultra-rare UMF 25+ manuka harvested deep in Taranaki bush.Only 73 pieces exist: one two-litre collector’s vessel at NZ$500,000 (€250,000), six mid-tier pieces around NZ$10,000 (€5,000), and 66 smaller vessels at about NZ$1,000 (€500).NZ$1,000 vessel. Photo: Supplied.The ceramics are by South African artist Gabrielle Weinstein with gold-plated dippers by jeweller York Van Rheede Van Oudtshoorn.Naki says its UMF 25+ harvest comes only every two years when conditions align.The company is expanding across 23 markets, preparing a $7 million export shipment to the United States and eyeing growth in the UAE following the new free trade agreement.The launch aligns with Le Quesnoy’s annual November 4 commemorations and highlights ties between two agricultural nations.Future editions will mark each biennial harvest with new artists.“We’re not just selling honey; we’re creating something timeless,” Burchell-Burger said.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

Think paracetamol is harmless? Many Kiwis are overdosing.University of Auckland researchers, writing in the New Zealand Journal of Primary Health Care, report many people exceed safe doses because they assume the medicine is harmless.Senior research fellow Dr Samantha Marsh says, “People think it’s safe, which it is, if you take it at the right dose,” warning that the liver can be damaged when limits are exceeded.The study of almost two thousand people found one third commonly take more than two tablets at once and 11 percent exceed the daily limit.Dr Samantha Marsh, UoA Senior Research Fellow Gen.Practice & Primary Healthcare.Many struggle to spot paracetamol in cold and flu products like Lemsip or Coldral, raising the risk of accidental overdosing; Marsh supports clearer front-of-pack warnings such as “contains paracetamol”.The recommended adult dose is one or two 500mg tablets every four to six hours, with at least four hours between doses and no more than eight tablets, or four grams, in 24 hours.Children are a particular concern, with the National Poisons Centre receiving about 1000 calls a year for paracetamol poisonings, roughly half involving children who helped themselves; 60 to 65 percent of poison calls involve under-fives.Marsh urges parents to record doses, especially overnight.Locals might see pharmacists reinforce dose spacing and remind families to check labels before combining products.For Hibiscus Coast households, the message is simple: follow the pack, track each dose, and ask your GP or pharmacist if unsure.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

New Zealand home values rose 0.2% in October, a second lift that matters for Hibiscus Coast buyers watching the market. Cotality NZ’s Home Value Index shows the national median at $811,662 after a 0.1% rise in September, following five monthly falls. Chief property economist Kelvin Davidson said the back-to-back increases “may signal the early stages of a market recovery,” but urged restraint. “Sentiment remains tilted to the cautious end of the spectrum, and of course, the economy and labour market are still subdued.” He linked the small gains to lower mortgage rates and flagged looser loan-to-value rules from Monday, December 1, after the Tuesday, October 14 announcement. Banks often move early, so effects could appear in October lending data due late November. In Auckland, October was mixed: Franklin rose 0.3% and North Shore edged up, while Rodney, Manukau, and Papakura dipped 0.1%, with larger drops in Auckland City and Waitākere. Over 12 months, Auckland values fell 2.0%, with key areas still 20–25% below peak. Davidson said attention now turns to the Reserve Bank’s Wednesday, November 26 OCR call, likely a 0.25% cut that could end this cycle. He sees 2026 bringing more sales and modest price growth, around 5% or less, with values still about 17% under early-2022 peaks—conditions some Coast buyers may view as opportunity.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

For many New Zealand small businesses, the struggle isn’t just finding new customers. It’s getting paid by the ones you already have.Unpaid invoices can creep up quietly, building a “90 days +” column that’s far too big for comfort.But there’s a fine line between staying firm on payments and keeping good customer relationships intact.Managing that balance is the key to long-term success.Be clear from the startThe first step in effective debt management actually starts before the sale.Every quote, order form, and invoice should include your payment terms in plain English, not buried in fine print.If you expect payment within 14 days, say so. If you apply late-payment interest, make that clear too.The goal isn’t to scare people off, but to set expectations.Good customers appreciate transparency.Invoice promptly and accuratelyIt sounds basic, but many overdue debts start with a delay or error in invoicing.Send invoices as soon as work is completed or goods are delivered, and double-check all details — pricing, dates, and purchase order numbers.A missing PO number or even an inaccurate description of the work done can push payment out by another whole month for some clients.Efficient invoicing tells your customers you take your business seriously.Follow up early, and stay politeDon’t wait 60 days to start chasing payments. A friendly reminder a few days after the due date is often all that’sneeded.Keep your tone courteous. Most overdue accounts are due to oversight, not intention.Try something like: “Hi [name], just a quick reminder that invoice #1234 was due last week. Please let us know if it’s already been paid, or if there’s any issue we can help with.”This shows professionalism, not aggression.Know when to escalateIf reminders don’t work, it’s time to have a firm but respectful conversation.Be calm, factual, and solution- focused: “We’d really like to continue working with you, but we do need to get this settled.”Offering a structured repayment plan can often recover the money without damaging the relationship.If that fails, using a collection agency or legal pathway might be necessary, but always as a last resort.Review and refineRegularly review your debtor list.Who pays late every month? Are your terms too generous? Do you need deposits for new clients?Sometimes prevention is more effective than collection.Keep communication open and systems simple.The bottom lineDebt collection isn’t about being harsh.It’s about keeping your cash flow healthy and your business sustainable.It’s a balancing act between professionalism and empathy.Never give upOne business I know recently received payment for 3 invoices totalling nearly $10k, which had been overdue for between 21 and 25 months.Giving up would been easier, but that wasn’t the path taken. Persistence did pay off. Eventually.If you’d like to know more about setting up an effective, customer-friendly debt collection process, or would like a free, no-obligation meeting to discuss your situation — get in touch today.We’d be happy to help you keep your overdue column under control and your customer relationships strong.