Sales activity lifted across New Zealand in July 2025, according to new figures from the Real Estate Institute (REINZ), even as fewer homes came onto the market. Listings were down 4.2% compared to last July, while sales rose 4% nationwide, suggesting buyers remain active despite tighter supply.REINZ Chief Executive Lizzy Ryley said the seasonal pattern is clear. “We’re seeing the usual winter slowdown in listings, but buyers are still out there. The lift in sales compared to last July suggests there’s solid interest despite fewer new homes coming to market.”The national median price nudged up 1.8% year-on-year to $767,250. Auckland recorded a 2.6% rise to $975,000. Excluding Auckland, the median price increased 3.9% to $695,000. Eleven regions saw annual price gains, with Nelson and Otago showing the sharpest growth.For Coasties, the numbers reflect what many are noticing in local open homes – fewer new properties listed, but steady demand. While some vendors are holding off until spring, salespeople say most are realistic and prepared to meet the market now.Across the country, the number of days to sell eased slightly to 48, while auctions made up 13.5% of sales. Inventory dipped by 0.4%, leaving just over 30,000 properties for sale.Ryley noted that while buyers remain active, they are not rushing. “With steady days to sell, it’s clear people feel they have time to weigh up their options.”Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

The Government is planning the biggest shake-up of the building consent system since 2004, aiming to cut delays and lower costs for builders and homeowners.Building and Construction Minister Chris Penk says the changes are needed because consenting red tape is slowing projects and driving up costs.He noted that a typical standalone house in New Zealand is now 50 percent more expensive to build than in Australia.The first change will scrap the current “joint and several liability” model, which often leaves councils paying the full bill when building defects arise. Instead, a new “proportionate liability” system will make each party responsible only for their share of the work. Options such as mandatory home warranties and professional indemnity insurance are being explored to protect building owners.The second reform will allow councils to consolidate their Building Consent Authority functions. With 66 authorities nationwide, builders currently face inconsistent interpretations of the Building Code. Consolidation is expected to bring consistency, reduce paperwork, and save ratepayers money.For the Hibiscus Coast, where housing demand and infrastructure growth are pressing issues, the reforms could make it easier to get projects moving and reduce the risk of costly delays.A Bill to amend the Building Act is expected to be introduced to Parliament in early 2026.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

Auckland CBD's business association is asking the government to collaborate on a plan to revive the city's economy.On Morning Report, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon shut down Auckland Mayor Wayne Brown's renewed calls to charge visitors a bed-night levy."We just don't think a bed tax is the right way forward at this time and we're not looking at it this term."The levy would fund destination marketing and events to attract people to the city.Heart of the City chief executive Viv Beck said central city businesses suffering after Covid-19 and from ongoing construction due to the delayed City Rail Link needed a lifeline."If the government doesn't want to do [a bed levy] what we need is a discussion about what the alternatives are."If the prime minister had said, 'Look, we are not supporting a bed tax, but we are keen to talk to groups in Auckland concerned about the economic turnaround there,' that would be helpful so we could actually end up with a plan of attack."We need a solution, and we're not going to get one if it keeps staying at a public stalemate."Beck said the government returning the GST it charged on rates would also help Auckland's economy.

Burger fans, mark your calendars. On Thursday 29 August at 15:00, YouTube megastar Jimmy Donaldson, better known as MrBeast, will see his famous MrBeast Burger brand open its very first New Zealand store in Auckland.The launch brings the internet-famous menu closer to home, with options like the Beast Style Burger, Chandler Style Burger, Nashville Chicken and Crinkle Fries available via UberEats, DoorDash or takeaway from the new Auckland outlet.Opening weekend comes with plenty of extras. Every order will include a free MrBeast Burger shoe charm and a can of Pepsi, plus surprise giveaways for lucky customers.Dec Penfold, co-founder of VBNZ and MrBeast Burger’s New Zealand operator, says the buzz isn’t just about the hype. “We’re bringing an iconic American burger brand and giving it a Kiwi twist. From the pickles to the patties, nearly every ingredient is sourced from local producers.”MrBeast Burger NZ will focus on a delivery-first model using commercial kitchens. The Auckland site is takeaway only, with more locations planned around the country soon.For Hibiscus Coast families who already make the trip into town for a taste of something new, Auckland’s launch means the world’s most viral burger brand is finally just down the motorway.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

Auckland Council says it will go ahead with a plan that will cut Takapuna Golf Course to nine-holes, despite pleas from the community to preserve the course.Council met with the representatives from the course on Friday, and assessed its alternative solution to drain floodwater in to the nearby Shoal Bay.The plan was recently endorsed by pro-golfer Dame Lydia Ko.Council said it had decided to progress with its previous plan to turn half of the course into flood storage and understood this was challenging for the golfing community - especially those in Takapuna.It had confirmed its plan to proceed with converting half of the 18-hole course into flood storage in July, rejecting the community's proposal to maintain the entire course and saying it was "unfeasible".Director resilience and infrastructure Barry Potter said communities had made it clear that work could not be delayed further."We have assessed the alternative option of a diversion to Shoal Bay, engaged independent consultants to peer review our findings, and spoken with our iwi partners and agencies including NZTA Waka Kotahi," he said."On the basis of these considerations, the council is progressing with the wetland and dry detention option it has previously signalled."Its decision was about saving lives, protecting homes and businesses, and strengthening the city against flood risk, Potter said."With this in mind, there will be no further consideration given to alternative options. The concept phase is now complete, and our work continues to progress to the preliminary and detailed design phase."Potter said the Auckland Anniversary floods in January 2023 had a devastating impact on Auckland, and many of those badly hit were still dealing with the fallout."Wairau was one of the hardest hit areas and tragically saw the loss of lives. This project, co-funded with central government, is about preventing a tragic situation like this from happening again."

Nearly 4,500 small businesses across New Zealand connected with the Regional Business Partner (RBP) Network in 2024/25, the highest engagement outside the COVID-19 period.That’s a 7% rise on last year and 13% more than in 2022/23.The RBP Network, delivered with business chambers, economic development agencies and Poutama Trust, offers tailored advice to help small businesses grow.Alongside Business Mentors New Zealand (BMNZ), it’s been a lifeline for many, including some on the Hibiscus Coast, where owners are keen to build resilience and adapt to change.Director Business & Consumer Diana Loughnan says businesses value the practical support.“Customer satisfaction is high, and many businesses are sharing their positive experiences with others,” she says.A major focus this year has been preparing mentors and advisors to guide businesses through AI adoption.Funded by the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE), the training helps identify where AI can add value and provides step-by-step guidance without the need for big budgets or tech teams.MBIE has also increased BMNZ funding by $350k a year for the next two years, enabling support for an extra 750 businesses annually.For local business owners, it means more opportunities to access expert advice, whether it’s planning for growth, getting through challenges, or exploring new technology to stay competitive.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

A fresh survey of New Zealand’s largest gas users has painted a grim picture for the months ahead, with warnings of soaring costs, shrinking supply and potential shutdowns.The Industrial and Consumers Gas Survey, released on Tuesday, shows some businesses can’t secure contracts beyond September, and those who can are facing price hikes of 20–40% or more. EMA Head of Advocacy Alan McDonald says the situation is already leading to reduced production and job losses.The problem is particularly severe for manufacturers reliant on gas-powered equipment, such as greenhouse vegetable growers, milk powder producers and baby formula manufacturers. Transitioning to other energy sources would require huge investment, with costs and geography making alternatives like electricity or geothermal out of reach for many.McDonald says importing more coal or diesel is an ironic consequence of pushing too quickly toward renewables without keeping gas as a transition fuel. “Elsewhere in the world, gas is recognised as the viable bridge while renewables scale up,” he says.The forum also highlighted that many businesses see the government’s $200m exploration co-investment fund as too little, too late, given years of policy uncertainty. Without a reliable supply, McDonald warns of further factory closures and “de-industrialisation” of the economy.For NZ industries, particularly food producers and manufacturers, the findings could signal higher operating costs, tighter margins and potential job impacts in the near future.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

Welcome to The Week That Was.Your go-to recap of important news, stories, and updates for the Hibiscus Coast community.How to Level-Up Your Team For Bigger ImpactRead more →Zeekr 7X Could Soon Turn Heads HereRead more →Hibiscus Coast Rider Faces Chilly ChallengeRead more →What Road User Charges Mean For YouRead more →Coast Wastewater Solution Still Years AwayRead more →Your Coast. Your news. Your app.Download the Hibiscus Coast App for instant local updates. Anytime, anywhere.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

Kmart NZ has been warned by the Commerce Commission for likely breaching the Fair Trading Act with its “100% sustainably sourced cotton” advertising.The Commission says the claim was misleading because Kmart’s “Better Cotton” was mixed with conventional cotton, meaning the retailer couldn’t guarantee its clothing was entirely sustainable.Vanessa Horne, the Commission’s Competition, Fair Trading, and Credit General Manager, says greenwashing makes it hard for consumers to know if products are genuinely eco-friendly.“If you can’t back it up, don’t say it,” she says.The claim ran from 4 August 2023 until 4 October 2024, when it was removed after the Commission raised concerns.Kmart has since provided compliance training to staff.While only the court can confirm a breach, the warning puts Kmart on notice for the future.The Commission says environmental claims must be clear, accurate, and supported by evidence.It has also joined 19 international consumer protection agencies in urging the fashion industry to check their marketing for compliance.For Hibiscus Coast shoppers, the case is a reminder to look beyond bold green labels.Many locals choose products based on environmental promises, and misleading claims can distort those decisions and disadvantage genuinely sustainable businesses.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

The Electricity Authority is investigating concerns about energy pricing, contract availability and business conduct in the electricity and gas markets.The authority said the investigation followed concerns raised by the Northern Infrastructure Forum and other organisations."We take all concerns raised seriously, and any concerns related to consumer trust or market fairness demand attention," authority chair Anna Kominik said."We have started a review under section 16 of the Act focused on business consumers' access to electricity contracts, including commercial and industrial consumers."Section 16 enabled the authority to use formal information gathering powers to look more closely into pricing and other terms offered to business consumers.The authority said it was working closely with the Commerce Commission, which recently launched a new whistleblowing tool to make reporting easier.The authority said the scope and timeframe of the review would be refined as the investigation developed.Meanwhile, big electricity retailers will have to offer cheaper prices for off-peak power use prices, and fair prices to people who sell surplus power to the grid from roof top solar panels at peak times.The Electricity Authority announced last month it was changing sector rules to require retailers with more than five-percent market share to offer time of use prices from the middle of next year, after a report by a joint task force of the authority and the Commerce Commission.The changes were aimed to give consumers more choice in how and when they use power, and put downward pressure on prices.Also last month, a letter was sent to Prime Minister Christopher Luxon calling for an urgent reform of the sector as soaring power prices undermine confidence and productivity.It took aim at the four big power generation companies Genesis, Contact, Mercury and Meridian, also referred to as gentailers, because they compete at the retail level.It was signed by groups representing big and small energy users, small retail energy suppliers, and a cross-section of industry organisations representing a broad range of sectors.

State Highway 1 northbound from Oteha Valley Road to the Silverdale interchange will be closed for maintenance from Sunday 17 August to Thursday 21 August, between 9pm and 5am.The NZ Transport Agency says the work is weather dependent, so dates could change.Ramp closures and lane restrictions may start before the mainline closure times.The closures will affect drivers heading north, with the following ramps also shut:Oteha Valley Road northbound on-rampSilverdale northbound off-rampBP Service Station Dairy Flat off-ramp and on-ramp (no public access)Signposted detours will be in place, with the recommended route via Oteha Valley Road and Dairy Flat Highway.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

Silverdale United Rugby & Sports Club has appointed Nick Mulvaney as its new Club Operations and Development Manager, starting mid September.The club says he will run day to day operations and lead rugby development across all levels, supporting more than 1,000 members.Mulvaney steps in with strong local credentials.He was most recently Head of Rugby Operations at North Harbour Rugby Union, coordinating grassroots rugby across the region and supporting clubs, schools, referees and volunteers.He has also spent more than a decade as a volunteer and former Chairman of Harbour Junior Rugby and Helensville Rugby Club, with awards including Volunteer of the Year and Outstanding Contribution to Junior Rugby.For Coasties, this move signals extra support for community rugby on the Hibiscus Coast.Expect pathways for players, coaches and volunteers, plus a sharper focus on club culture and delivery.In his new role, Mulvaney will oversee the club’s daily running and drive development initiatives, aligning operational work with long term plans.Silverdale United says his mix of club insight and strategic planning fits its ambition to become New Zealand’s leading community based sports club.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

Since March 2020, Auckland Council has completed more than 611 prosecutions under the Dog Control Act, holding owners to account when dogs seriously injure people or other animals.In the 2024 to 2025 financial year alone, nearly 3,000 dog attacks and more than 15,000 roaming reports were logged across Auckland.The rise is linked to post-lockdown dog ownership, lower desexing rates, and more unregistered, untrained animals.A recent Auckland District Court sentencing underscored the stance.A rottweiler attacked a passer-by in New Lynn in October 2023, leaving a 10 to 15 cm arm wound that required surgery.The dog was being handled by the owner’s 15-year-old son.Despite a guilty plea and immediate assistance to the victim, the Court declined a discharge without conviction, citing the severity of injuries and hospitalisation.The owner received 70 hours of community service and was ordered to pay $500 reparation.The dog was euthanised four days later at the owners’ request.For Coasties, the message is the same.These rules and prosecutions apply across Auckland, including the Hibiscus Coast.Register and desex your dogs, keep them contained, and stay in control in public.Head of Prosecutions John Kang says injuries can be “gruesome,” adding, “we will continue to prosecute where criminal action is justified.”General Manager Robert Irvine is clear: “Owning a dog comes with a duty to ensure the safety of the community.”Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

The All Blacks have confirmed their match day squad to face Argentina in the Rugby Championship opener this Sunday, 17 August, at Estadio Mario Alberto Kempes in Córdoba. Kick-off is at 09:10am NZST, with live coverage on Sky Sport from 8am.Scott Barrett will captain the side from lock, joined in the starting XV by brothers Beauden (first five) and Jordie (second five). Ardie Savea lines up at number eight, while Will Jordan takes the fullback jersey. Rieko Ioane and Sevu Reece complete the back three, with Cortez Ratima starting at halfback.The forward pack features Ethan de Groot, Codie Taylor, and Fletcher Newell in the front row, with Fabian Holland joining Barrett in the second row. Tupou Vaa’i and Du’Plessis Kirifi complete the loose forward trio alongside Savea.On the bench, Samisoni Taukei’aho, Ollie Norris, and Pasilio Tosi cover the front row, with Patrick Tuipulotu and Samipeni Finau as forward reserves. Finlay Christie, Anton Lienert-Brown, and Damian McKenzie offer backline depth.For Hibiscus Coast rugby fans, the early Sunday kick-off means a prime opportunity to gather with mates and watch the action before lunch. With three Barrett brothers in the run-on side and a mix of experienced heads and fresh faces, this match promises to set the tone for the All Blacks’ 2025 campaign.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

Looking for plans? Explore events happening soon on the Hibiscus Coast and start planning your next activity!The Hit Singles Dating NightSat 16 AugClick here for more detailsDave Ewart JnrSat 16 AugClick here for more detailsOrewa Beach Farmers MarketSun 17 AugClick here for more detailsWant to see more events?Explore Things To Do in our community in the Hibiscus Coast App anytime, anywhere.Got an event coming up? List it free today →

Watercare says the Hibiscus Coast’s wastewater fix is not expected until 2031, with no spare capacity available now.The utility plans to invest about $500m over the next decade, including a major upgrade to the Army Bay Wastewater Treatment Plant, and is exploring faster alternatives.What this means now: anyone with a valid building consent can still connect when ready.Developers with a resource consent issued before 15 November 2024, but no building consent, have to contact Watercare.These will be assessed case by case as the company keeps a close eye on capacity.New resource consents that require a public wastewater connection are not currently being granted.Image: WatercareIn November 2024, Watercare estimated Army Bay could connect about 4,000 more homes.Since then, 297 have been added.As of June 2025, Watercare reports no remaining capacity on the Hibiscus Coast.“We estimate we can connect up to 4000 new homes before the treatment plant reaches capacity,” chief strategy and planning officer Priyan Perera said at the time.That limit now appears reached, ahead of upgrades.Image: WatercareWhy this matters for Coasties: planned housing and commercial projects may be delayed or staged until extra treatment capacity comes online.Expect tighter sequencing of builds, longer timelines, and more upfront checks on wastewater connections while Watercare progresses an upgrade path.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

The Government’s second RMA Amendment Bill has passed into law, bringing sweeping changes aimed at speeding up development, creating jobs, and supporting housing growth.RMA Reform Minister Chris Bishop says the Resource Management Act has “held New Zealand back for decades” and the new law will make it quicker and simpler to get projects off the ground in housing, renewable energy, infrastructure, and the primary sector.Highlights of the changes include:Faster consenting for renewable energy and major infrastructure.Upzoning around Auckland City Rail Link stations to unlock housing potential.Easier removal of certain heritage protections.Reduced freshwater farm plan requirements for smaller farms.Stronger, faster action on natural hazard risks.The Bill also gives the Minister powers to change or remove parts of council RMA plans that are proven to slow economic growth or job creation.For the Hibiscus Coast, this could mean greater certainty for infrastructure upgrades, and more local job opportunities in construction and related trades.The law will take effect the day after it receives royal assent, expected in the coming days, and will remain in place until a full RMA replacement is rolled out in 2027.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

NZTA advises that two middle northbound lanes on the Auckland Harbour Bridge will be closed this Sunday morning, 17 August, for filming.The closure runs from the Curran Street on-ramp to the Stafford Road off-ramp between 3am and 9am. All other lanes will remain open, and traffic is expected to be light at this time.For those heading from the Hibiscus Coast into the city early on Sunday, you may notice a short delay if you’re in the affected lanes, but overall disruption should be minimal.If bad weather prevents filming, the closure will shift to the following Sunday, 24 August.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, 15/8Sun peeking through the clouds with a light sou’east breeze.High: 15Low: 5Saturday, 16/8Mostly cloudy and breezy from the nor’east.High: 15Low: 11Sunday, 17/8Steady rain with a fresh nor’easter — best grab the wet weather gear.High: 15Low: 11Monday, 18/8Showery and brisk from the west — you’ll want the raincoat.High: 16Low: 10Want more weather info? Tap into 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.Everything you need, right here in the Hibiscus Coast App – anytime, anywhere!