Surf Life Saving New Zealand has launched a nationwide push to recruit 1,000 new volunteers over the next three years, warning that current numbers aren’t keeping pace with demand.The campaign calls for around 600 new surf lifeguards, 100 patrol supporters, and 300 volunteers in administration and support roles such as equipment maintenance, governance, and fundraising.CEO Steve Fisher says volunteer numbers have plateaued while more people are heading to the beach each summer. “Every rescue, every patrol, every piece of equipment maintained is thanks to the generosity of people giving their time. But volunteer numbers have plateaued while the number of people heading to our beaches continues to grow. That puts enormous pressure on existing members and ultimately impacts community safety.”The need is especially acute in places like Auckland’s west coast beaches, the Coromandel, Taranaki, Hawke’s Bay, and the South Island’s west coast. Without more hands on deck, some regions may face reduced services.For Coasties, the message is close to home.With rising visitor numbers across the Hibiscus Coast, local patrols rely on volunteers to keep the community safe. SLSNZ stresses that not every role requires elite swimming ability, and anyone with a few hours to give can make a difference.“The message is simple: it takes a community to save a life,” Fisher says.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

Electric vehicle sales are edging higher this year, says EVDB, which tracks the Australasian EV market.In August, 4.4% of new light vehicle registrations in New Zealand were fully electric, just 487 vehicles.Over 100 of those were electric vans, hinting at growing interest from businesses as well as households.Across the Tasman, battery EV sales were 20 times higher.Australia’s population is only 5.3 times bigger, yet its EV market share is double New Zealand’s.Despite tougher economic conditions, New Zealanders are still buying around 10,000 new vehicles every month.EV ChargingEVDB says electrified options, from hybrids to plug-in hybrids and full battery EVs, are gradually gaining ground.For Coasties, that means the odds of spotting more plug-in cars, SUVs and delivery vans on local roads are slowly improving.And with a steady stream of new models arriving, drivers are being given more choice than ever.A full list of EVs available in New Zealand can be found at evdb.nz/evs.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

Incumbent Auckland mayor Wayne Brown has turned his attention to who could join him around the council table, with Auckland Council candidates standing in Albany, Manukau, and North Shore on his "Fix Auckland!" ticket.The 79-year-old told RNZ the "big race" in Auckland was not the mayoral election, but the council elections."I've managed to get enough support every time I've wanted to do a major thing."But it would be nice if I didn't have to battle the same four people who oppose everything every time and are doing no good for their people."He called the Albany councillors "particularly negative"."They're opposition politicians."They've never supported anything that reduces costs. They voted against selling the airport shares, which were returning us less than 1 percent, and now we're getting 8.5 percent. If we hadn't done that, we'd be increasing our rates by another 5 percent."And just recently, they voted against excessive rate rises. But we've produced the lowest rate rises of any metro centre in New Zealand."Incumbent Albany councillor John Watson, told RNZ he had been a councillor for 12 years.Albany councillor John Watson. Photo: RNZ / Cole Eastham-FarrellyHe said him and fellow Albany councillor Wayne Walker, who were standing on the Putting People First ticket, had contested Wayne Brown on several issues."The mayor appears to be after total subservience. He wants total control, no challenging voices or anyone putting what he wants to do under scrutiny."Where communities haven't been treated fairly, we've had to really hold him to account, and he doesn't like that."North Harbour Stadium, he was all for demolishing and selling that off. He didn't like not getting his way on that."He said the mayor had "looted the north's assets during his first term" and that rate increases for the area were much higher than the city's average."Our residents will know the north was hit really hard in this last rates round. Over 40 percent of people here had rate increases between 10 and 20 percent."Albany is the biggest, most populous ward in Auckland, and people pay a disproportionately high proportion of the rates to the Auckland Council rates kitty. I want to ensure Albany gets a fair go and other communities in Auckland likewise."Walker, who had been an Auckland councillor since the supercity was formed in 2010, and was a councillor for Rodney before that, echoed a similar sentiment."Councillors like myself, my fellow councillor John Watson, and a number of councillors who stand up for their communities and for issues across Auckland, he doesn't want that, he wants those councillors gone."We don't think it's good for democracy or accountability for councillors to have their first allegiance to the mayor, rather than to the communities they should be representing."Albany councillor Wayne Walker. Photo: Auckland CouncilHe believed the mayor had not ruled out privatising the Port of Auckland or getting rid of North Harbour Stadium.Wayne Brown said he stood by his decision-making."The idea that they saved the ports is ridiculous. I didn't come up with the idea of selling it. The offer to sell it came from Mr [Phil] Goff."I just said to the ports, start making money, or we'll look at that offer."I came up with, without any input from those people, a tripartite agreement between the ports, the council, and the port workers."One of the things they're claiming is that they're taking on the mayor for demolishing and selling North Harbour. They consistently mislead the public. As part of our Long Term Plan, council voted on three options for the future of the stadium, none of which included a proposal for demolition or sale."An option the council considered was redeveloping the precinct, which could have resulted in the "deconstruction" of the stadium.At a council meeting in 2023, Wayne Brown called the stadium a "white elephant" that should be pulled down.Ultimately the council decided to maintain the status quo.Wayne Brown said it was up to the local board to figure out a long-term solution for the stadium.North Harbour Stadium. Photo: RNZ/Nick MonroHe said the Albany councillors also "peddled false hopes" about an alternative solution to save nine holes at Takapuna Golf Course.The council planned to turn half of the course into a floodwater catchment area to mitigate the city's increasing flood risks."Their solution is more expensive, and it failed independent reviews by other consulting engineers that we've had to pay for."He denied that any Fix Auckland! aligned councillors would be required to vote in line with him if elected."The allegiance of my team is to Auckland and to rational financial decisions."Desley [Simpson], who's my deputy mayor and a close associate of mine, regularly votes against bits and pieces but not the big decisions that check the financial improvement of my city."Fix Auckland! candidate Victoria Short defended her and Gary Brown's alignment with Wayne Brown."We want to have positive and constructive relationship with the mayor, focused on building a better city for our future. Albany voters want their councillors to be able to find solutions and work with their mayor - not pick fights and hold up sensible decisions."Our allegiance will be to the people who elect us in Albany - and Auckland. And they expect us to be credible and constructive."Wayne Brown said several candidates had approached him about joining Fix Auckland."These people, I didn't really hunt for them. People came to me and said we'd like to work in a team to support what you're doing to fix Auckland."In response to Wayne Brown's comments, Watson said the councillors regarded their attempts to intervene in the mayor's plans as a positive, not a negative."We've certainly had to be very active in confronting a series of damaging proposals from the mayor himself - such as his attempt to demolish and sell off North Harbour Stadium, the unscrupulous eviction of speedway from Western Springs, and his proposal to privatise the Port of Auckland."He said the assertion he had not supported measures that would reduce ratepayer costs was "totally incorrect".He cited a complaint he filed with Councillor Mike Lee to the Auditor-General over the council paying Australian consultants more than $3.6 million to advise on selling the port and its Auckland Airport shares.The government watchdog criticised the decision, saying a contract awarded to Flagstaff Consulting Group should have been competitively tendered.He firmly believed Takapuna Gold Course's 18-holes could be retained along with flood protection."That's not false hope - it's an entirely realistic option that should be pursued for the benefit of future generations."Walker said Wayne Brown's comments were "his classic bully-boy behaviour"."The measures we back are those that our communities want... even if that means going against the mayor."The alternatives to reduce flooding in the Wairau Catchment were developed by competent engineers working for Takapuna Golf Course and also independently in the community."There is also huge support from the wider community - including golfers - to keep the course as 18 holes."Yes we voted to retain the port of Auckland in council ownership. Now it's delivering nearly $2 million a week in profit to ratepayers."Ports of Auckland. Photo: RNZ / Kymberlee FernandesThe Albany Ward candidatesIncluding Watson and Walker, there were nine candidates competing for Albany's two council seats.RNZ asked candidates who could be contacted for one sentence on why they wanted to be a councillor for Albany, and one sentence on a main issue they were concerned about for the area.Fix Auckland candidate Gary Brown, was a previous chairperson and current deputy chairperson of the Hibiscus and Bays local board."I want to be your Albany councillor because I'm passionate about listening to the community, working with others, supporting local boards, and driving smart, future-focused investment in things like roads, parks, and new ideas."The biggest issue in our area is making sure we manage limited funds wisely while still investing in the critical infrastructure our growing community needs."Gary Brown. Photo: SuppliedFix Auckland's Victoria Short was deputy chairperson of the Hibiscus and Bays Local Board from 2019-2022."I want to represent the Albany Ward to ensure we have positive, collaborative representation around the council table that can bring progressive change to our community."I am deeply concerned about Albany's infrastructure and transport woes, and I'm committed to fronting these challenges directly to ensure our ward is a resilient and an even better place to call home."Samuel Mills was ACT Local's candidate."I am standing to become a councillor as like many in the Albany area I am frustrated as a rate payer that we continue to pay more in rates but receive less in return, it is time we as rate payers remind Auckland Council who they answer to."The main issue facing rate payers in the Albany ward especially those on fixed incomes and pensions is the mythical 5.8 percent rate increase, 10 - 70 percent rate increases are unacceptable and I have signed the Taxpayers Union pledge to keep future council spending at levels resulting in rates that will be at or below inflation, our pensioners should not have to choose between the heat pump and their rates."There were four independents: Callum Blair, Peter Davey, John McCallum, and Kyle Parker.Houses in Albany.Parker said he wanted to prioritise the needs of future generations."At the end of my life, I need to be able to say honestly to my loved ones and all future generations, that in all aspects of my life, I did everything I could to prioritise their long-term needs over my short-term wants, influence people and make the courageous decisions, that will make all their hard choices of the future so much easier."Most other local and central government politicians care more about getting re-elected in three year's time than securing our great grandchildren's future with long-term decision making, climate-safe infrastructure, local economic development, and inclusive democracy."

With the old global order in a heightened state of flux, driven by US President Donald Trump’s attacks on free trade, international organisations and human rights, small states like New Zealand are having to adjust their foreign policies and hedge their bets.As long-term economic and diplomatic power shifts towards Asia and the wider Indo-Pacific, alternative multilateral groups are now growing in importance.Foremost among these is the grouping known as BRICS, a maturing – and potentially dominant – centre of global economic power.Whether New Zealand would consider joining is still moot, but the forum already includes major nations vital to this country’s future.Formed in September 2006 by Brazil, Russia, India and China (the original BRIC), it had its first annual summit in June 2009, with South Africa joining in December 2010 (thus becoming BRICS).The core strategic logic of BRICS is based on consensus and solidarity, not coercion, and to gain member benefits via collective strength.As then Indian prime minister Manmohan Singh put it in 2009:We share the vision of inclusive growth and prosperity in the world [… and] we stand for a rule-based, stable and predictable global order.Having substantial economies, populations, landmasses and ambitions underpinned this shared goal of a multipolar world – which now seems to be emerging by a different route due to Trump’s isolationist “America first” policies.Strength in numbersIn 2012, motivated by mutual concerns over food and energy security, terrorism and climate change, BRICS members signed the Delhi Declaration, stating:We envision a future marked by global peace, economic and social progress [… and] strengthened representation of emerging and developing countries in the institutions of global governance.In 2013, BRICS launched the New Development Bank, designed to progressively reform the world’s financial architecture after the global financial crisis of 2008.Seeking to fund sustainable development and infrastructure projects in developing states, the bank now rivals older Western-based institutions such as the World Bank and International Monetary Fund (IMF).The rising significance of BRICS has been accelerated by its recent expansion.In 2024, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates all became members, as did Indonesia in 2025.Argentina had also agreed to join in 2024 but then pulled out due to the election of its US-orientated populist president Javier Milei.The expansion saw BRICS’ share of global GDP rise to 39% in 2023.Member states now account for 48.5% of the planet’s population and 36% of total global territory.BRICS also accounts for around 72% of the world’s reserves of rare earth minerals, 43.6% of global oil production, 36% of natural gas production and 78.2% of coal production.By such measures, BRICS is an economic and diplomatic powerhouse.In economic terms, it has been out-ranking the G7 countries (US, Germany, Japan, UK, France, Italy and Canada) since around 2019.An alternative, not a choiceDiplomatically, BRICS members pledge to better synchronise their national policies by meeting on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly, IMF, World Bank and G20 summits.Joining such a body provides an attractive way for countries to enhance their trade and diplomatic bandwidth, as well as hedge against US-inspired instability.Joining BRICS also comes with potential risks, of course.Any perception of traditional Western alliance systems being undercut could see aid and investment reduce.So far, however, Trump’s threat to impose an extra 10% trade tariff on any countries aligned with BRICS is yet to materialise.But as economist Stephen Onyeiwu has written, with the exception of Russia and Iran,Most of the countries and partners in BRICS are either allies of western countries or neutral on global issues.They are unlikely to support decisions or actions that are grossly inimical to western interests.Given the current geopolitical situation, New Zealand may well baulk at closer ties with Russia and Iran.But being inside the forum would also allow diplomatic opportunities to press other member states over their actions or policies.In fact, New Zealand – along with many US allies – joined the Beijing-inspired Asia Infrastructure Investment Bank and signed a Free Trade Agreement with China in 2008. It didn’t suffer any adverse consequences.New BRICS members can be invited or make a formal request to apply, which is then considered at the next BRICS annual summit.Or they can apply to be a partner country, which is akin to “observer” status.This allows them to take part in special summits and foreign minister meetings, as well as contribute to official documents and policy statements.But they can’t host meetings or select new members and partners.Most importantly, joining BRICS would not mean New Zealand needs to leave other multilateral institutions.Rather, it would be a pragmatic way for Wellington to spread its diplomatic wings and prepare for a future in which Asia and the Indo-Pacific – already the world’s largest economic and military region – will only become more powerful.Author: Chris Ogden - Associate Professor in Global Studies, University of AucklandKnow something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

Welcome to The Week That Was.Your go-to recap of important news, stories, and updates for the Hibiscus Coast community.Win $960 in Ads with September BoostRead more →Mowing Manners Every Hibiscus Neighbour Should KnowRead more →North Shore Pair Banned After Dog NeglectRead more →Night Closures Hit SH1 Tunnels Mid-SeptemberRead more →Build Stronger Teams: Six Skills for Kiwi OwnersRead 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.

Retailer Golf Warehouse has offered $20m to redevelop A.F. Thomas Park and Takapuna Golf Course on Auckland's North Shore.Auckland Council plans to turn half of the 18-hole golf course at the park into a floodwater catchment area to mitigate the city's increasing flood risks.The Kaipātiki Local Board was expected to begin public consultation on the future of the area in October.One option for the board would be to adopt the Golf Warehouse plan, which would transform 28.7ha of the park into a series of "recreation zones".These included an upgraded driving range, a new "world-class" nine-hole golf course, and a 36-hole floodlit mini golf course.An upgraded Eventfinda Stadium would also be re-built on a raised platform which the retailer said addressed the stadium's vulnerability to flooding.Golf Warehouse owner, chairperson and North Shore resident Eric Faesenkloet said it was an opportunity to make A.F. Thomas Park a multi-purpose community hub for sports, recreation, and entertainment."I'm pleased the council has now confirmed a solution that protects lives and infrastructure for future flooding events and I believe a smart plan like ours not only provides exceptional new golfing facilities but also addresses a surge in demand for other sports like basketball, gymnastics, pickleball, cycling, and skateboarding."We recognise that regular players of Takapuna Golf Course would ideally like to retain 18 holes, but given the area constraints of the new site, we do not believe this is now viable, particularly in regard to safety.Takapuna Golf courseTakapuna Golf Course as seen from above. (File photo) Photo: Nick Monro"The way we play golf has changed significantly in the last decade. Our proposal of a professional nine-hole course, a nine-hole par 3 course, along with a brand new world-class driving range, mini golf courses, and a massive practice putting green, provides a pathway for golfers of every age and ability."He said their proposal would not require any public funding.Eventfinda Stadium CEO Brian Blake said stadium needed replacing."The current venue is 33 years old, in need of an expensive roof and is still susceptible to flood damage, which in 2023 cost $6m in repairs."Golf Warehouse's Proposal will see us able to build a larger venue on a new site to prevent flood damage in the future. I really hope the community gets behind this proposal because it ticks so many boxes for what we need."The Proposed Facilities:A new larger Eventfinda Stadium on a raised platform to address flood vulnerability.A modern, world-class 9-hole golf course with extensive native planting.A 9-hole par-3 community short course, fully flood-lit to extend play hours.A new 100-bay, 250m driving range featuring upgraded high safety nets, and ultra-low blue wave floodlights.A 36-hole floodlit mini golf course and Auckland's largest practice putting green.A multi-purpose community clubhouse with hospitality offering and retail.Golf NZ's Auckland entry-level participation and talent development programmes base.6,000m2 (approx) of additional carparking capacity.Dedicated land for a pickleball facility and a pump track for bikes, scooters, and skateboards.Northern corridor walk/cycleway connecting Wairau Rd with Northcote Rd.

If you want a new iPhone, be careful what you're signing up for.The iPhone 17 will be available in New Zealand in the middle of this month.But Telecommunications Dispute Resolution (TDR), which deals with complaints about telcos that cannot be resolved directly by consumers, said it was dealing with an increasing number of people who found themselves in financial difficulty after they signed up for a more expensive phone plan in order to access a new device.Telcos often promote the option of paying off a new phone, interest-free, as an additional charge on phone plans.One NZ said iPhone 17s would be available for preorder from 12am on Saturday on an interest-free term with a pay monthly mobile plan."Once pre-orders have been fulfilled and stock is more widely available, the phone will also be available to purchase outright."But chief executive of TDR Herman Visagie said people should take care with that."What we've seen is that while it can be a really great new toy and the interest-free payment plan options that providers have, can be a great way to access it, there are fishhooks from a kind of base affordability perspective and a broader suitability perspective that sometimes gets people tripped up."He said people needed to make sure they could afford the payments, and that the plan they were on would be right for their needs."Because there's limited stock, [telcos] generally force you to go on a payment plan for normally two to three years…."And they'll offer great discounts for certain plans. You'll often seen the advertisements for up to $750 off or something but you'll look at the fine print and it's a really high end plan.Photo by Nic Coury / AFP)Photo: AFP / Nic CouryApple iPhone 17 models are displayed during Apple's "Awe-Dropping" event at the Steve Jobs Theatre on the Apple Park campus in Cupertino, California, on September 9, 2025."If I'm on a $40 plan and I'm going 'ok cool, I'll change to the $75 plan to get this discount', people get stuck and they can actually sometimes end up paying more because often the discounts have conditions like you have to be on an eligible plan for the whole payment period of your phone. So sometimes when you cost it out, you may find that actually that increase in monthly payment more than offsets the discount you're getting."He said iPhones were expensive devices."They cost more than a laptop."You're looking at a $2300 device, and you can put it on a 36-month payment plan, it might only go to $100 or so a month, which seems really affordable. And actually it's much better than putting it on consumer credit for instance, but it does mean that sometimes people think short-term about it, 'this month I can afford it'."They don't think about Christmas when their money might be tight, all that kind of thing. You're tying yourself up for a really long period of time."Visagie said telcos did not assess the affordability of a plan in the same way that a lender would if someone was applying for credit."They don't actually really have a way of going, 'hey, John, can you actually afford this? And we're assessing whether you can or not'. And look, consumer choice, right? You don't want to make it too difficult."You don't want to be expecting people to bring in screeds of paper and their bank statements to prove that they can."But I think it's that classic thing of you don't do a formalised assessment and then you package it in a way that a consumer might go in the moment, oh, that seems doable. But then they don't think about all the future months."Sometimes they forget that they go, 'I could pay $120 a month', like that seems feasible. But remember that's before you then also add your $69 plan. So actually you're paying $190 a month."He said it might be a good idea to pay more money upfront to reduce the ongoing monthly payments, or try to buy the device outright from Apple."One NZ said the "vast majority" of customers wanted to purchase their phone with a monthly plan."That's become even more popular with One Wallet. It allows Kiwis (regardless of whether they're a customer or not) to earn Phone Dollars to save on their next interest free phone upgrade when they choose to join One NZ on a Pay Monthly mobile plan."Spark was also approached for comment.

Today's planned protest across the Auckland Harbour Bridge will no longer go ahead, with organisers shifting the march into the city centre.Inspector Stefan Sagar, Relieving Waitematā District Commander, said Police advised organisers this afternoon that forecast winds made the bridge unsafe.“Our position was that this protest activity should not take place given the risks posed to anyone who was to participate,” he said. Organisers agreed and will now gather between Aotea Square and Victoria Park.A Police operation will still monitor the event. Traffic disruption is expected in the CBD and around Victoria Park, but no special traffic management is now required on the Harbour Bridge.NZ Transport Agency confirmed the bridge will remain open to vehicles. Forecast gusts of 75–85km/h, with possible peaks of 90km/h early afternoon, may still trigger reduced speed limits or lane closures. Full bridge closures could occur briefly if gusts hit 90km/h.Motorists are urged to drive to conditions and follow electronic motorway signs. High winds may also affect ferries and buses using the bridge.For Hibiscus Coast locals who often head south on weekends, the change means no major motorway disruption beyond the usual Saturday congestion, though anyone planning a trip into the city should allow extra time.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

Running a small business can sometimes feel like you’re working away quietly while others seem to grab all the attention.You know your service or product is solid, but if the right people don’t see you, growth slows.That’s where business visibility makes the difference.Marketing thinker Seth Godin once said, “Being noticed is not the same as being chosen. But you can’t be chosen without being noticed.”Visibility is about making sure people know you exist, trust what you do, and remember you when they’re ready to buy.What Visibility Really MeansBusiness visibility is how easy it is for people to find and recognise your business. It doesn’t mean being everywhere at once or chasing every new platform.As Simon Sinek, author of Start With Why, put it: “Visibility without value is meaningless.”Or, as Trade Me founder Sam Morgan once said, “You need to focus on building something people actually want.”Visibility only works when your offer solves a real problem for customers.On the Hibiscus Coast, that could mean being discovered on Google, showing up on the Hibiscus Coast App, or being spotted at a community event.A Local Plan to Boost Your VisibilityBe where your customers already are. Gary Vaynerchuk often says, “Attention is the new currency.”The businesses that grow are the ones that know exactly where their customers spend time, whether that’s mobile, social platforms, search engines, or local networks, and focus their energy there.Show up consistently. As Brad Sugars, founder of ActionCOACH, puts it: “Be so good at marketing that people can’t ignore you.”Consistency in your updates, photos, and messaging makes you part of your customers’ everyday awareness.Lean into community. Daniel Priestley, author of Key Person of Influence, says, “Visibility is credibility. When people see you often, they start to believe in you.”Collaborations, sponsorships, and partnerships locally can build that credibility faster.That ties in with Sir Stephen Tindall, founder of The Warehouse, who once said, “Business is about more than making money. It’s about making a difference.”Supporting community clubs, events, or causes is one of the most effective ways Coast businesses can stay visible while making a positive impact.Add a little fuel.Even modest advertising helps.Alex Hormozi reminds us, “Obscurity is the enemy of business.”A smart local campaign can take you from being unknown to being the first name people think of.Measure and adjust. Ancient strategist Sun Tzu wrote, “Tactics without strategy is the noise before defeat.”Tracking what’s working and aligning it to a clear plan ensures you’re not just busy, you’re effective.This local business had their ad seen 5,370 times on the Hibiscus Coast App in just two weeks.Final WordIf your business feels like the best-kept secret, it’s time to change that.Visibility isn’t about being the loudest, it’s about showing up consistently in the right places so locals know you’re there.With the right approach, you can make your business impossible to ignore on the Hibiscus Coast.👉 Want to explore simple, local ways to make your business more visible? Let’s talk and find the right path for you.

Auckland hasn’t seen a Powerball winner since Christmas Day 2024, but that could change with Saturday’s $10 million Must Be Won draw.In the eight months since, winners have popped up in Wellington, Christchurch and Dunedin, leaving Aucklanders empty-handed. Lotto NZ says this is the longest spell without a local win in at least six years.“With around a third of Aotearoa’s population living in Auckland, it’s quite an anomaly not to see any Powerball winners from the region this year,” said Will Hine, Lotto NZ’s Head of Corporate Communications.The North Island has still fared better overall with eight of this year’s 14 wins, compared with six for the South. And it hasn’t been all bad news in Auckland, with nine locals becoming millionaires in 2025 through Lotto and Strike.For Hibiscus Coast players, the Must Be Won draw adds extra interest. If no one wins First Division Powerball, the jackpot rolls down to the next division and is shared out. Either way, someone will walk away with millions.Lotto NZ is also preparing for a technology upgrade on 29 September, which will see new in-store terminals and changes to online limits. Stores and MyLotto will be offline overnight from Sunday 28 September until later on Monday 29 September.With queues expected, Lotto NZ recommends buying tickets early on Saturday, ahead of sales closing at 7.30pm.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!Auckland Home ShowFri 12 Sep - Sun 14 SepClick here for more details Seventh Wonder Performs Fleetwood MacFri 12 SepClick here for more detailsOrewa WinterY Festival 2025Sat 13 SepClick here for more details Want 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 →

Coast commuters should brace for night closures on SH1 between Silverdale and Warkworth from Sunday 14 to Friday 19 September.The Johnstone Hill Tunnels will be under maintenance all week, with northbound lanes shut from 9pm Sunday 14 to 5am Wednesday 17 September. Southbound lanes then close from 5am Wednesday 17 to 5am Friday 19 September. Traffic will still move both ways, sharing a single lane in the opposite tunnel.On Tuesday 16 September, the northbound stretch from Silverdale to Warkworth will be fully closed overnight for paving. NZTA advises ramps at Silverdale, Millwater, Orewa, and Puhoi will also be shut, with detours via Hibiscus Coast Highway and Old SH1.The next night, Wednesday 17 September, southbound lanes from Warkworth to Silverdale will close overnight. Ramps at Puhoi, Orewa, Millwater, and Silverdale will all be affected, with detours again using Old SH1 and Hibiscus Coast Highway.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

Tomorrow morning could feel a bit different for Coasties heading into the city.Police are advising that a planned protest march across the Auckland Harbour Bridge will shut all southbound lanes from 9am for several hours.Inspector Stefan Sagar, Relieving Waitematā District Commander, says motorists should expect significant delays.Protestors will gather at Onepoto Domain on the North Shore before walking south towards Victoria Park.To keep everyone safe, traffic and pedestrians will be fully separated.That means cars travelling south into the city won’t be able to use the bridge until the protest has moved through.Northbound lanes will stay open, but reduced from four to three.NZTA and Auckland Transport say the knock-on effects will ripple across the motorway network.Heavy congestion is expected on both sides of the bridge and across local roads.Public transport is also impacted, with bus routes including NX1, NX2 and several city-bound services facing delays or cancellations.Some buses may stop short of the bridge or detour.Coasties are urged to plan ahead, allow extra time, or consider using the Western Ring Route via SH16 and SH18.Police will have a visible presence along the route and say their focus is on keeping everyone safe while respecting the right to protest.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

Auckland Council has adopted a new plan to strengthen tsunami resilience, setting out clear steps to help communities prepare, withstand and recover from emergencies.The Tsunami Resilience Action Plan was signed off on 9 September by the Civil Defence and Emergency Management Committee. Chair Sharon Stewart says the milestone is about giving Aucklanders tools to protect themselves and their families. She highlighted the focus on educating young people and building stronger partnerships with community groups and marae.The plan covers a range of initiatives, from updated mapping and school programmes to tailored support for coastal and vulnerable communities. It also aims to strengthen warning systems, embed tsunami planning in council facilities and expand the Emergency Mobile Alert network. Advice for boaties and better signage in high-risk coastal spots are also included.For Coasties, living close to the shoreline means these actions matter. Orewa, Red Beach and other low-lying parts of the Hibiscus Coast sit inside evacuation zones, so awareness and preparation can make all the difference in an emergency.Officials say natural warnings are just as important as official alerts. A strong or long earthquake, unusual sea noises or a sudden rise or fall in sea level should all trigger immediate action: head to higher ground without waiting.Households are encouraged to make and practise an emergency plan, so everyone knows where to go and what to take if evacuation is needed.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

Running a small business in New Zealand often means wearing multiple hats—owner, operator, marketer, problem-solver, and, importantly, team manager.Whether you're leading a crew of five or fifty, effective team management is crucial to your business's success.A highly functioning team doesn’t happen by chance—it’s the result of intentional leadership, clear communication, and strong systems.So, what are the core skills needed to manage a team effectively?1. Clear and Consistent CommunicationIn small businesses, where roles often overlap and resources are tight, clarity is key.Team members need to know what’s expected of them, how their work contributes to the business, and where to go when issues arise.Good team managers foster an open-door policy, encourage feedback, and regularly check in—formally and informally.Tools like shared calendars, group messaging apps (e.g., Slack or Microsoft Teams), and weekly stand-ups can go a long way in maintaining alignment.2. Emotional Intelligence and EmpathyIn New Zealand's close-knit working environments, emotional intelligence (EQ) is not just a buzzword—it’s a management essential.Being able to read the room, understand team dynamics, and respond calmly under pressure can strengthen trust and cohesion.Empathetic leadership—where team members feel heard, respected, and valued—boosts morale and reduces turnover.3. Delegation and TrustMany small business owners struggle with letting go.But the ability to delegate effectively is what separates busy managers from strategic leaders.Trusting your team to take ownership of tasks allows you to focus on growth and planning.Delegation also empowers employees, developing their confidence and skills—key to long-term retention and performance.4. Conflict ResolutionEven in the best teams, conflict can arise.The skill lies in addressing issues early and constructively.Kiwi workplaces often pride themselves on being laid-back, but avoiding tension can lead to resentment and disengagement.Great managers approach conflict with a solutions-first mindset—listening to both sides, identifying the root causes, and finding common ground.5. Goal-Setting and AccountabilityWhether it’s meeting sales targets, improving customer service, or launching a new product, clear goals give teams direction.Good managers involve staff in setting realistic and measurable goals, breaking them down into achievable steps.Just as important is following up—celebrating progress, addressing roadblocks, and maintaining momentum.6. Adaptability and Continuous LearningNew Zealand’s small businesses often operate in rapidly changing markets, particularly in rural and regional areas.Good team managers are agile—they pivot quickly when things shift, and they encourage their teams to grow with them.This might involve upskilling, embracing new technology, or simply learning from mistakes and trying again.To Sum UpEffective team management isn’t about being the boss—it’s about being a leader others want to follow.In New Zealand’s small business environment, where teamwork and community are often at the heart of success, investing in your people is investing in your future.By developing core management skills like communication, empathy, delegation, and adaptability, you’ll build a team that’s not only high-performing but proud to be part of your business journey.And what do I think is the most important of everything outlined above?I would say without hesitation that getting ‘delegation and trust’ right will be the one step that will have the greatest impact in your business.If you’d like to talk more about this, please contact me on 027 433 1430. I’d be happy to expand on this subject with you.

Coasties, here’s what the next four days have in store:Friday, 12/9Rainy and windy with brisk westerlies.High: 17Low: 12Saturday, 13/9Afternoon showers with strong blustery west–sou’west winds.High: 16Low: 11Sunday, 14/9Windy and partly cloudy with brisk west–sou’west winds.High: 16Low: 11Monday, 15/9Sun and cloud mix with breezy west–sou’west winds.High: 16Low: 12Want 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!

The Asia New Zealand Foundation is asking Auckland’s Chinese and Indian-owned export businesses to share their experiences through a short survey.The research, which takes around 7–8 minutes to complete, is focused on businesses exporting goods or services, including education. Responses will be used to help the Foundation and government agencies engage more effectively with local businesses and build stronger connections between New Zealand and Asia.All feedback is confidential and reported only in aggregate. As part of the project, participants will also be invited to a Foundation-hosted networking event in Auckland.The Asia New Zealand Foundation describes itself as the country’s leading provider of Asia-related insights and experiences, helping New Zealanders gain the knowledge, skills and confidence to succeed in Asia.For Hibiscus Coast businesses owned by Chinese or Indian families, this survey offers a chance to have their voices heard and to shape how agencies connect with them in the future. It could also open doors to new business relationships across the region.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

The Government has unveiled a new set of senior secondary school subjects, aimed at preparing young New Zealanders for the jobs of tomorrow. Education Minister Erica Stanford says the refreshed curriculum for Years 11–13 will give students purposeful pathways, more choice, and the chance to specialise in areas that set them up for success.Subjects will be phased in from 2028 and include both restructured existing subjects and brand-new ones. Students will be able to dive into fields like Earth and Space Science, Statistics and Data Science, and Electronics and Mechatronics, as well as specialist maths such as Further Maths.New options like Civics, Politics and Philosophy, Media and Communications, Pacific Studies, and Music Technology will sit alongside strengthened industry-led courses in areas such as building, hospitality, health, and mechanical engineering. These industry-aligned subjects are designed to bridge directly into the professional world, allowing students to leave school with both secondary and tertiary qualifications.With the rapid rise of artificial intelligence, students will also learn about digital systems, cybersecurity, and machine learning, with a specialist Year 13 subject on Generative AI under consideration.For Hibiscus Coast families, the change means local students will have access to subjects that connect directly to future careers, whether in trades, tech, or tertiary study. Schools will be supported with resources, training, and classroom-ready materials well before the rollout.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

Jetstar says the addition of two new domestic services - and added flights on existing routes - will open up more than 660,000 extra seats on the airline each year.A new flight was planned between Brisbane and Queenstown during next year's ski season, while daily flights from Hamilton to Christchurch would begin this December.The airline was also increasing the number of flights linking Auckland to Christchurch and Dunedin, as well as three trans-Tasman routes.Flights connecting Auckland to Brisbane would now run twice daily, while four extra flights between Auckland and Sydney would add nearly 80,000 seats to the route each year.Flights linking Christchurch to Melbourne would also increase with an additional 26,000 seats becoming available as the flight was upgraded to a daily service.Jetstar Group CEO Stephanie Tully said the changes would bring more tourism into the country and boost connectivity about the motu and across the Tasman."We know how vital air travel is for connecting Kiwi families, friends, holidaymakers and business travellers. These changes will give a much-needed boost to inbound tourism while offering Kiwis even more low-fares and choice in how they travel."She said the changes would lift Jetstar's total NZ domestic capacity by 18 percent and 14 percent across the Tasman, making the move the single-biggest expansion ever of its New Zealand and trans-Tasman network.The airline would base an additional A320 aircraft in Auckland to manage the added flights.Tully said the changes - alongside additional Qantas flights between Christchurch and Sydney and Qantas' use of a new A220 aircraft on flights linking Wellington to Sydney - would further bolster Aotearoa's connectivity with Australia and further afield."With more seats on our trans-Tasman network than ever before, with one stop in Australia, Kiwis will have enhanced connectivity to Asia and beyond," Tully said.The new A220 aircraft joined the Qantas fleet in early 2024, and was a more fuel efficient design that boasted a nearly 50 percent reduction in noise as well as specially designed seats, windows and improved device connectivity for passengers.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.