When media company NZME proposed the closure of 14 community newspapers last week, the so-called “news desert” encroached a little further into the local information landscape.The term refers to those many regions in both town and country where newspapers that for generations have kept their citizens informed – and local politicians and planners (mostly) honest – have been shut down.As a metaphor, the desert evokes a sense of arid emptiness and silence.But it also suggests a featureless place where we lose a sense of direction.Many of these papers were their community’s central or only source of verified local news.Research from the United States has shown the death of a local newspaper leaves citizens struggling for information about community events, and feeling more isolated.People worry about a loss of community pride and identity. Volunteers struggle to fill the void.Among the NZME titles facing closure for being unprofitable is the Te Awamutu Courier, which has been publishing for more than a century.It and its stablemates may well soon join the 28 local papers Stuff sold or closed in 2018.Between those two headline events many other little papers have gone, financial burdens on their owners in an age of online advertising and shifting consumption habits.Those that still exist, at least the ones owned by major news publishers, are often shadows of their former selves.The power of a local pressThe effect of this trend, of course, is to remove a kind of media town square.Affected communities are left to the perils of community social media, which are not professionally moderated, can be defamatory, and which post largely unverified content.For all the faults that come with local newspapers – and most journalists can tell you about an editor who was too vulnerable to influence, or a publisher who meddled in the newsroom – these news organisations connect their communities to their cultural, physical and human geographies.Good ones – and there have been many – identify the social issues that unite and divide their communities, and then represent and champion their readers or play the role of moderator.Authorities are put on notice when local coverage amplifies the complaints and demands of residents and ratepayers.When enough pressure on politicians and officials is exerted in this way, things have even been known to change.The papers that survive now are often the ones which reinforce a strongly-felt community identity in places as diverse as the West Coast of the South Island, Waiheke Island and Mahurangi.Readers will rally behind a paper that gets behind them, and a collective voice of sorts emerges.A community’s struggles – be they over housing, employment or the environment – help define its identity, building knowledge and resilience.A training ground for good journalismIn telling these stories, young journalists (many of whom are destined for metropolitan newsrooms later in their careers) learn how government is meant to work – and how it actually works in practice.It’s where they learn how to report without fear or favour, how to find reliable sources, and where official information can be accessed – the nuts and bolts of journalism, in other words.It’s also often where journalists first experience the powers of the bureaucracy and the executive.There’s nothing like a bully on a local board or a vindictive council official to help a young reporter up their game.Of course, local politics are now often conveyed via social media in disordered, fragmented and incendiary ways.Politicians and other powerful players can reach voters directly, telling their own stories, effectively unchallenged.Yet this persuasive power, and the prevalence of misinformation and disinformation, only underscore the need for political information to be ordered and moderated by accountable community journalists.Digital solutions struggleNewspapers do seem anomalous today, it’s true.Growing pine forests to share news is, frankly, quite ridiculous.But online-only ventures in community news have largely struggled.Crux, a Central Otago site for robust community journalism since 2018, was proposed as a model for a network of regional news sites, but it has recently gone into hibernation.According to its founder, journalist Peter Newport, Crux had “tried, tested and implemented every single type of digital publishing innovation”.Newport has instead taken to Substack, where freelancers can build paying newsletter audiences, to publish his brand of investigative community journalism.With Google now threatening to stop promoting New Zealand news content if the government goes ahead with the Fair Digital News Bargaining Bill, the plight of local papers is in danger of being overshadowed by a wider crisis.Whole television news networks have closed, and others are being hugely downsized.Elsewhere, philanthropists such as the American Journalism Project are recognising the risk to democracy and social unity from the loss of local news sources, and are funding attempts to restore it.As yet, however, a sustainable model has yet to rise.In Aotearoa New Zealand, there are now calls from local councils themselves to strengthen existing government support for local-democracy reporting.This and more should be done.The longer we wait, the closer the news desert creeps every day.Author - Greg Treadwell

Your Weekly News FixCatch up on the top local stories that made headlines this week!Top Stories You Need to Know$194 Million Lost to Bank ScamsRead more Mayor Proposes Changes to Council StructureRead morePolice Minister Highlights Early Crime ReductionsRead moreOrewa New World Santa Parade Returns This SaturdayRead moreMatakana Village Farmers' Market Celebrates 20 YearsRead more Stay Ahead of the Curve.Get the latest local news and information through the Hibiscus Coast App. Download the app now!Have a story to share?Contact [email protected]

Auckland’s bus drivers are set to benefit from increased security measures with the rollout of driver safety screens across the region’s bus fleet. The initiative, funded by Auckland Council and the Government, aims to enhance safety for drivers who play a vital role in the city’s public transport network.The first batch of safety screens was unveiled today by Auckland Mayor Wayne Brown at an event attended by Ritchies Transport Chief Executive Michele Kernahan and Auckland Transport Chief Executive Dean Kimpton. The screens are being installed on buses operated by Ritchies at depots in Takanini and Albany.Mayor Brown emphasised the importance of the initiative, stating, “We’ve all been appalled by recent cowardly attacks on bus drivers who are just trying to do their job. This investment ensures their security and acknowledges the critical work they do to keep Auckland moving.”The rollout, which includes input from bus drivers on the screen designs, is expected to significantly improve conditions for the more than 2,330 drivers employed by the eight operators contracted by Auckland Transport. Tramways Union President Gary Froggatt was also recognised for his leadership in consulting on the project.Auckland Transport Chief Executive Dean Kimpton highlighted the progress, noting that 35 buses are already equipped with the safety screens. “By June next year, more than 300 buses will feature these protective measures,” Mr Kimpton said. “With the Government co-funding announced today, we aim to have 80% of AT’s buses equipped with screens by July 2026.”Buses play a pivotal role in Auckland’s transport system, carrying about 80% of all public transport passengers and making over 13,500 trips daily.The rollout marks a critical step toward improving safety for both drivers and passengers, ensuring a secure and reliable network for the community.

With more Kiwis keen to shop for a Black Friday bargain this year, people will be keeping their eyes peeled for the best deals.Even though New Zealanders traditionally have not celebrated Thanksgiving - the precursor to Black Friday sales that follow the holiday on the fourth Thursday of November - the concept of the sales have swept the globe.The cultural phenomenon, which has generally become known as a four-day sales period, revolves not just around the discounts, but the anticipation of frenzied shoppers pushing, shoving, and sometimes even fighting each other to get a bargain.How has this become such a global phenomenon?And are the sales all they're cracked up to be?Why has it become such a big deal?Black Friday is a time when people often nab Christmas presents - but it's our culture and what we have put a value on as a society that has infused us with this inherent sense of obligation to give gifts, University of Canterbury professor of marketing Ekant Veer says.University of Canterbury professor of marketing Ekant Veer. Photo: University of Canterbury"We get caught up in this frenzy of buying more to show love and marketers prey on that saying, 'hey, you're a good parent because you gave your kid that thing that made them really happy', and 'you're a good kid because your parents clearly got you something'."According to a survey by PriceMe of more than 1100 people, 51 percent of Kiwis are planning to shop on Black Friday this year, compared with 35 percent in 2023.Additionally, sales often have become elongated - including Boxing Day - because there's been a "democratisation of knowledge", where consumers often hold out on buying because they're more aware of when the sales are and how much they could save, Prof Veer says.Retail NZ chief executive Carolyn Young Photo: SuppliedRetail NZ chief executive Carolyn Young says some businesses also stretch out sales to increase foot traffic ahead of the Christmas sales period, which is "critical in terms of the sustainability of retailers"."It doesn't necessarily mean that you get greater turnover between when the sales starts and the Christmas period, but it just means that you're generating interest earlier."Some smaller retailers can't afford to go that far and will stick to traditional sale seasons, Young says, while others feel the need to jump on the bandwagon to not miss out on the opportunity.What could be worth buying during Black Friday sales?PriceMe's survey data in October found the most interest from would-be shoppers was in technology and electronics (38 percent) followed by fashion and clothing (35 percent) and household appliances (25 percent).PriceSpy says tech products had the most substantial Black Friday discounts last year, with the largest average discounts in games and consoles (-28 percent), keyboards and mice (-24 percent), speakers (-24 percent), televisions (-22 percent), and kitchen appliances (-20 percent)."For 2024, we expect similar trends, with electronics leading the way. Non-tech categories like kitchen appliances, airfryers, espresso machines and vacuum cleaners also consistently perform well, with average discounts of around -20 percent."PriceSpy recommends looking for older models in electronics."Retailers frequently discount previous-generation products, especially in categories like smartphones, headphones, and televisions, offering great value without sacrificing quality."The beauty and health category offered an average discount of -21 percent on products during last Black Friday, according to PriceSpy data.Some research based on average weighted prices conducted by PriceSpy in 2022 showed November was the best time to buy toasters, headphones, juicers and home security cameras. But it was the worst time to buy LEGO.In general, it found the cheapest month in 2022 was November, with prices costing 7 percent less ($57) compared to the average price across the rest of the year.Black Friday 2024 survey by PriceMe shows the average Kiwi plans to spend just over $600 this Black Friday, with the most popular purchases set to be: technology and electronics (38%), fashion and clothing (35%), and household appliances (25%). Photo: SuppliedWhat fish hooks to look out for when you're shopping in the Black Friday sales?There's been a "recurring trend" of fake deals where some retailers raise their price ahead of Black Friday to deceive consumers into thinking their discount is bigger than it actually is, PriceSpy says."Last year, one in 10 offers (10 percent) fell into this category. While this isn't illegal, shoppers should be aware of this and extra cautious if a discount appears unusually large."Don't fall for the pressure tactics like "one left, get in quick" or "don't miss out!", ConsumerNZ says."They're intentionally designed to create a sense of urgency, overwhelm or confusion. Don't fall for it - there's mostly likely enough in stock, and you probably won't "miss out."Also watch out for an increase in delivery charges to offset large discounts, PriceSpy says. "It's wise to consider the full purchase cost, not just the discount percentage."Financial adviser Tracy Hemingway of Debtfreediva NZ says it's wise to be wary of multi-buy deals."Like I know that it's one for $20 or two for $30, but have you just spent an extra $10 on something that you don't need? Rather than just spend the $20 on the one item that you did need."So how do we avoid getting sucked into the frenzy?Prof Veer has these tips:Be mindful and consider what you need versus what you want before you head out.Do your research. Use price checker and comparison websites to see who has the best deal and how it compares to the rest of the year."They will put things on sale that people don't typically want as a way of luring people into the shop to get into the frenzy of 'while I'm here, I will also buy this thing at full retail price'."Set your budget and stick to it. Buying a few things that you don't need because they're at a good price will still mean they add up at the cashier.But how does it compare to the other sales? And is it worth it?Last year, PriceSpy's Price Index, a tool which monitors daily indexed price changes across the most popular products on the comparison website, was -7 percent on Black Friday, a slight improvement over 2022.The average discount among discounted products was 21 percent.But they also found 15 percent of products were actually more expensive on Black Friday compared to a standard shopping day, like 1 November 2023.PriceMe also found many would be taking on extra debt to pay for their Black Friday purchases this year - it's something that's contributing to the idea of "gift poverty" where we overextend ourselves and go in debt just to buy something for others, Prof Veer says.Buy NZ Made executive director Dane Ambler also says the hype around Black Friday "can fuel a culture of overconsumption, leading to unnecessary waste and strain on natural resources".The phenomenon goes against what we're also being told about avoiding "accelerated consumerism", where we buy and consume more, more frequently, Prof Veer says.

The Hibiscus Coast community, like the rest of New Zealand, could benefit from adopting new care standards for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), according to leading medical experts. COPD, a group of diseases that block airflow and affect breathing, is the fourth leading cause of death in New Zealand, impacting around 200,000 people aged over 45. Māori and Pacific populations face a disproportionate burden, with higher rates of diagnosis and severity of symptoms.Dr Lutz Beckert, a respiratory specialist and Professor of Medicine at the University of Otago, has called for New Zealand to consider adopting the recently launched Australian COPD Clinical Care Standard.This initiative outlines ten essential care strategies designed to reduce hospitalisation rates and improve quality of life for those living with the disease. Dr Beckert highlighted the importance of making spirometry testing widely accessible, saying, “Funded spirometry for all New Zealand GPs could revolutionise COPD diagnosis, akin to how diabetes and breast cancer testing is funded.” Spirometry is vital for early diagnosis and timely treatment, both of which are emphasised in the Australian model.Dr Beckert also stressed the need for greater awareness of occupational risks.“Exposure to vapours, gas, dust, or fine particles in some workplaces can increase the risk of lung disease by 40%, and when combined with smoking, the risk jumps to 620%,” he said.Dr Lutz Beckert, University of OtagoPreventing workplace and environmental exposures is a key focus of the Australian Standard.Respiratory specialist Dr James Wethasinghe pointed out that early symptoms of COPD, such as breathlessness, are often dismissed by patients as normal signs of ageing. This delay in seeking medical attention can lead to severe health deterioration. He believes campaigns like World COPD Awareness Day are essential for raising awareness and reducing stigma around the disease.“COPD patients often feel isolated and struggle unnecessarily with daily symptoms. With earlier intervention and better access to diagnostics, we can significantly improve their quality of life,” he said.Recent funding for Trelegy Ellipta, a triple-therapy inhaler for moderate to severe COPD, is expected to help approximately 15,000 Kiwis. Amanda Southcombe, General Manager for GSK NZ, praised the initiative but noted that early detection and increased public awareness remain critical.Medical professionals urge anyone experiencing persistent breathlessness or recurrent chest infections to consult their GP for evaluation. Early diagnosis and effective treatment could make a significant difference in managing this life-altering condition.

Coasties, get ready to celebrate a remarkable milestone!The Matakana Village Farmers' Market is turning 20, and the community is invited to join in the festivities.Just 30 minutes up the road from Hibiscus Coast, this charming destination is not to be missed.On Saturday, 23 November 2024, from 8 am to 1 pm, the market will host a special morning with unique finds and surprise giveaways.Live music from local buskers will add to the lively atmosphere.The anniversary celebration will continue from 1 pm to 4 pm, featuring live music from the Pippi Pickers Band and words from the market's founders at 2 pm.This special event honours the community that has made the market a cherished gathering place.The Matakana Village Farmers' Market was established in 2002 by locals Richard and Christine Didsbury, who transformed the old timber yard into a thriving destination.The market's philosophy emphasises food provenance, with producers selling locally-made products.Over the years, the market has become a launchpad for several well-known gourmet brands.Today, Matakana Village boasts beautifully landscaped open spaces, independent specialty shops, and a world-class arthouse cinema complex.The village has maintained its small-town charm while offering a perfect weekend escape.

A University of Auckland study has identified a carbon tax as the most effective approach for New Zealand to cut emissions while maintaining economic stability. The research compared carbon taxes, emissions trading schemes (ETS), and emission intensity targets, evaluating their impact on both the environment and the economy.The study found that while all three policies lead to some short-term welfare losses, a carbon tax is less disruptive to household welfare in the long term. Associate Professor Stephen Poletti noted that a carbon tax provides businesses with greater certainty about carbon pricing, unlike the volatility associated with an ETS.Professor Emilson Silva, director of the university’s Energy Centre, highlighted the potential for revenue from a carbon tax to offset cost-of-living increases, such as rising food, transport, and energy costs. He suggested that funds could be redistributed through income tax rebates or direct support to families in need.Lead author Simon Tao, a doctoral candidate, emphasised the challenge of agricultural emissions, which are currently exempt from New Zealand’s ETS. Lead author, Business School doctoral candidate Simon TaoThe study suggests that a carbon tax, used alongside the ETS, could be a more effective strategy for achieving the country’s environmental goals.The researchers also addressed the cyclical nature of emissions, which tend to rise during economic growth and fall during downturns. Tao proposed dynamic carbon pricing, where prices increase during periods of economic expansion, to stabilise emissions.Dr Selena Sheng emphasised the importance of regional collaboration, suggesting New Zealand and Australia explore joint forums to align environmental policies. She noted that harmonising tax strategies could maintain investment appeal while promoting sustainability.The study underlined the critical role of public education in building support for a carbon tax, encouraging policymakers to communicate its long-term benefits effectively.

Looking ahead, Coasties can expect the next four days to bring the following:Friday - 22/11Mainly sunny. Breezy to brisk Sou'West winds.High: 19Low: 14Saturday - 23/11Cloudy. Breezy to brisk Sou'West winds.High: 18Low: 13Sunday - 24/11Partly cloudy. Fairly breezy Sou'West windsHigh: 19Low: 13Monday - 25/11Partly cloudy. Fairly breezy Sou'West winds.High: 20Low: 14Get real-time weather updates, tide information, wind conditions, wave forecasts, recommended swimming areas, and lots more.Anytime, anywhere – everything you need is inside the Hibiscus Coast App.

The Hibiscus Coast community is gearing up for a fun-filled evening as the annual Orewa New World Santa Parade takes place this Saturday, 23 November. Coasties of all ages are invited to join in the festive cheer.The parade begins at 4:30 pm from Alice Avenue, proceeding down Florence Avenue and along the Hibiscus Coast Highway, culminating at the Orewa Beach Reserve car park adjacent to the Orewa Surf Club.A rain date is set for Sunday, 24 November, at 4:30 pm.To ensure a smooth and safe event, several road closures will be in effect:Alice and Edward Avenue: 8 am to 5 pm (residents only)Florence Avenue: 4 pm to 6 pmHibiscus Coast Highway (Westhoe Road to Centreway Road): 4 pm to 6 pmMark your calendars and bring your family and friends to enjoy this delightful community event.

Auckland's mayor has lost confidence that the City Rail Link will be finished on time, despite assurances from officials.The City Rail Link project is set to cause major disruption for Aucklanders over the next year, as it hurries to finish work in time for opening in 2026.The Minister for Transport recently announced Auckland's railway system would be shut with no running trains for up to 96 days between December 2024 and January 2026, to make time for crucial rail rebuild work for City Rail Link.Auckland mayor Wayne Brown said the project had been marked by budget and time blow-outs.He was asked if City Rail Link - set to open in 2026 - would be his last big project as mayor."That project has had a terrible track record. It was supposed to have finished before I became the mayor, and it was supposed to have cost a third of what it has cost," he said."I've kind of lost confidence in hearing back from the people that that's what's going to happen. It requires intense pressure at this stage. It's quite a good project, but it was set up very poorly."Brown said it was disappointing City Rail Link had not been finished, but he was determined to get it across the line.In a joint statement from Auckland Transport, City Rail Link and KiwiRail, the agencies said they remained confident about opening in 2026."There's a lot of work underway between AT, City Rail Link Ltd and KiwiRail to complete work on City Rail Link and across the wider Auckland rail network to be ready for more frequent, faster and reliable trains and we remain confident about opening in 2026."

Childhood obesity is a growing concern worldwide. But in New Zealand it’s a particularly pressing issue.With one of the highest rates in the OECD, about one in three New Zealand children are overweight or obese.Obesity in children can lead to severe health issues that persist into adulthood.While many factors contribute to childhood obesity – such as diet, physical activity and genetics – one often-overlooked factor is screen time.Children are constantly surrounded by devices such as TVs, tablets and smartphones, and screen time has become a normal part of daily life.The World Health Organization and the American Academy of Paediatrics both suggest preschool-aged children should have no more than one hour of screen time daily.But many young children in New Zealand and overseas are spending significantly more time on screens, with many regularly surpassing these guidelines.Our new study explored how simple family screen time rules could reduce childhood obesity risk.Our work revealed ways parents and policymakers can tackle this growing challenge.Screens and the risk of obesityExcessive screen time has been linked to various health issues in children, ranging from mental and emotional problems to physical health concerns like obesity.Spending too much time with screens often means more sitting and less physical activity, both of which can lead to excess weight gain.Additionally, screen time is associated with snacking, as children often eat while watching shows or playing games.These snacks are typically high in sugar and fat, contributing to weight gain over time.Advertisements for high-calorie foods are also common in children’s media, increasing cravings for unhealthy snacks.Moreover, screens emit blue light, which can disrupt sleep cycles if used close to bedtime.Poor sleep has been shown to increase hunger and cravings for high-calorie foods, making children more susceptible to weight gain.Noticeable benefits from limitsOur research used data from the Growing Up in New Zealand study, which followed over 5,700 children and their families.We examined how family screen time rules established at the age of two influenced obesity risk by the time the children were four-and-a-half.The results were eye-opening. We found families who set and implemented clear rules about screen use saw noticeable benefits.These rules indirectly helped reduce obesity risk by supporting better sleep habits and limiting excessive screen use – two factors strongly linked to healthier weight.While the study didn’t find a direct link between screen time rules and a reduced obesity rate, it did show how these rules can prevent behaviours associated with weight gain.For example, children in families with screen time rules slept longer and spent less time on screens, both of which are critical for maintaining a healthy weight.The most effective screen time strategies covered three main areas:Quality: deciding what type of shows or apps children can use. Previous research recommend prioritising educational or calming media over fast-paced or violent shows, as intense content can overstimulate children, making it harder for them to relax and sleep well.Quantity: setting a limit on how much time children spend on screens each day.Timing: establishing rules on when screens are allowed. For instance, avoiding screen time right before bed can help prevent sleep disruption from blue light exposure.The findings suggest setting all three types of screen rules can make a big difference in helping children form healthier habits.When families combine these rules, it doesn’t just reduce screen time; it also supports better sleep, which is vital for children’s overall health.Over time, these small but consistent rules can have a lasting, positive impact on children’s physical and mental wellbeing, reducing the risk of developing unhealthy weight.Other factorsIt’s worth noting that screen time habits don’t exist in a vacuum.The study also highlighted how socioeconomic factors can affect screen time and, subsequently, childhood obesity.Families in financially disadvantaged situations often have fewer resources to manage screen time effectively.These families might rely more on screens to entertain or occupy children due to limited access to alternative activities or safe outdoor spaces.Additionally, food insecurity – a lack of access to affordable, nutritious food – can increase reliance on inexpensive, unhealthy food options, further contributing to childhood obesity.When we accounted for factors such as poverty and food insecurity, the link between screen time and obesity became less direct.This suggests that tackling childhood obesity effectively requires addressing these underlying socioeconomic factors alongside screen time habits.Guiding parentsFor families, the key advice is to implement and maintain rules that address the quality, quantity and timing of screen use.These rules encourage children to balance their screen time with other activities, like physical play and adequate sleep, which are essential for healthy growth and development and reduce obesity risk.Policymakers can also play a role by supporting initiatives that assist families in lower-income brackets.Policies which reduce poverty, make healthy food more affordable and accessible, and create safe and attractive neighbourhood spaces would all make it easier for parents to establish and follow screen time rules.With rates of childhood obesity rising and long-term health consequences becoming more apparent, tackling this issue requires coordinated action from families, communities and policymakers alike.Authors: Ladan Hashemi and Boyd SwinburnThis research was completed with Maryam Ghasemi, Deborah Schlichting, Maryam Pirouzi and Cameron Grant.

Boost Lab has issued a voluntary recall of its Everyday Hydrating Cleanser after identifying a potential risk of skin irritation associated with two specific batches.The affected batches are #38126 and #38394. Customers are advised to stop using products from these batches immediately.To assist customers, Boost Lab has outlined several options for managing the recall. Affected products can be returned to the original place of purchase for a full refund. Customers unable to return the product or those who have sold or gifted it to someone else are encouraged to contact Boost Lab for further assistance.For enquiries, customers can email [email protected], call (02) 8644 0678, or visit the company’s website for more details.Boost Lab has assured customers that it is committed to addressing the issue promptly and providing full support to those impacted by the recall.

Some Auckland public transport users say they will stick with their AT HOP cards to retain the discounted fares.As of the weekend, Auckland Transport has introduced contactless payments.Commuters can now use any paywave-enabled device, such as card or phone, to tag on or off. However, these payments will incur the full adult fare.Unfortunately, this change will not benefit everyone, as concession prices and the $50 seven-day fare cap are excluded.User reviewsJakub Přikryl, 25, who recently arrived from the Czech Republic, believes the new system is a great idea because many people use mobile devices or cards daily."I arrived three days ago and didn't know how to pay. I'd really appreciate being able to pay through mobile."It's much easier because I don't carry cash. I'll definitely use it."However, some users are concerned about losing concession discounts.Reed, 19, a regular public transport user, plans to keep using his HOP card despite the convenience of the new system."Having a HOP card is better for compartmentalising funds, so I'll stick with it."Thomas Michael Daly, another frequent user, expressed disappointment: "I was excited about the convenience, but I wouldn't get the discount. I rely on that... Yeah, kind of disappointed."Christina, a minimum wage worker, commented: "It's accessible, but more expensive. It doesn't make sense. You want to give the cheaper option, especially with the cost of living. I'm getting minimum wage."She will continue using her HOP card because it is cheaper.University students Rosie and Honour expressed frustration at the inability to use their student concessions with the new system. Honour said: "It's convenient, but the full fare is hard for some parents to afford."David, who uses a gold card, feels the new system is not ideal for older people: "I prefer the old card. The new contactless payment is good for those who are tech-savvy, but it's not ideal for older people."Despite the drawbacks, many users acknowledge the progress the change represents.Carter, 17, from Christchurch, said: "It's way easier, 100 times easier."Nevertheless, his mother, Theresa Pearson, pointed out a downside: "It's easier with contactless payment. But that's a disadvantage for people who can't get a concession or cheaper rates."Local politicians weigh inMāngere-Ōtāhuhu Local Board chairperson Tauanu'u Nick Bakulich said that the change would make public transport much more accessible, with advantages for seniors and Pacific communities."For seniors 65+, it's still free with their gold card-buses, trains, ferries - it's all free for them. For Pacific people, you don't have to buy a $10 HOP card before you can start loading it," he said.Tauanu'u, who frequently uses the train for work meetings, added: "For those who aren't regular users, they won't have to deal with the inconvenience of buying a HOP card. They can just rock up and use their debit card."Ōtara-Papatoetoe Local Board chairperson Apulu Reece Autagavaia noted that while the system removes the hassle of topping up HOP cards, it has drawbacks as contactless payments do not offer concession discounts."The next step is cheaper fares, which would really help families who rely on public transport for schooling and work. This programme doesn't fully benefit those people yet, but hopefully, technology will allow for concessions in the future."He added that the local board has advocated for free public transport, eliminating the need for any card.Manurewa-Papakura Ward councillor Daniel Newman emphasised the importance of providing people with choices, including contactless payment options.However, he said: "My strong preference is that customers use their AT HOP wherever they can, as it provides the means to enjoy any fare concessions that may apply to the customer."Maungakiekie-Tāmaki Ward councillor Josephine Bartley acknowledged the convenience but raised her concerns about the costs."I think it's good for people who don't have HOP cards, but it's a very expensive system to put in place. I think of local boards that tried to push HOP cards, and now it seems they didn't need to."Users paying with devices or debit cards will be charged the full adult fare until the national ticketing solution is in place in 2026.- LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air.

Aucklanders have helped divert over 30,000 tonnes of food scraps from landfill since the introduction of the food scraps collection service in April last year. These scraps now generate renewable energy and fertiliser, contributing to homes and farmland across New Zealand.For the first time, renewable gas created from Auckland's food scraps is being added to the national gas pipeline. This milestone contribution is enough to regularly supply 18,000 homes, with total energy production equivalent to powering 300,000 homes for a month.“This is a proud moment for Auckland,” said Councillor Richard Hills, Chair of the Policy and Planning Committee. “Thank you to every Aucklander who is helping to keep food scraps out of landfill so they can be transformed into resources. By participating, you’re reducing our environmental impact and contributing to a sustainable future.”The initiative has also produced enough liquid fertiliser to cover nearly 100 square kilometres of farmland, equivalent to 13,500 rugby fields. Aucklanders have further saved the equivalent of 19,600 tonnes of harmful greenhouse gas emissions—comparable to taking 6,000 cars off the road or planting 500,000 trees.The food scraps are processed at Ecogas, New Zealand’s only anaerobic digestion facility, which converts them into biogas, electricity, heat, and fertiliser for farmers in the North Island.Council Tips for Managing Food Scraps in SummerTo prevent pests and odours during warmer months, Aucklanders are encouraged to try these tips:Pour boiling water over banana skins to kill fruit fly eggs.Keep vegetable peelings dry to minimise smells.Add baking soda or bokashi zing to food scraps.Store scraps in the fridge or freezer before disposal.Use compostable bin liners made of cornstarch.Empty kitchen caddies frequently and clean bins regularly.Apply tea tree oil around bin lids to deter pests.Keep bins in shady spots away from direct sunlight.This initiative supports Auckland’s vision of becoming zero waste by 2040.

Coasties can now access fresh insights into the state of New Zealand’s health following the release of the 2023/24 New Zealand Health Survey by the Ministry of Health.The annual survey explores a range of topics including alcohol consumption, vaping, mental health, diet, and access to healthcare. Deputy Director Public Health Dr Harriette Carr highlights its importance as a critical tool for identifying trends and shaping health strategies."The data shows that most New Zealanders continue to be in good health," Dr Carr said. "Progress has been made in areas such as reducing hazardous drinking rates among young people. However, there are areas needing more attention, and work is underway to address these challenges."Key Findings from the SurveyOverall Health: 85.4% of adults reported their health as good, very good, or excellent.Smoking and Vaping: Smoking rates remain low, with 6.9% of adults smoking daily, compared to 12.9% five years ago. Daily vaping, however, has increased to 11.1%.Hazardous Drinking: Rates among young adults aged 18–24 have significantly declined from 35.8% to 22.6% over five years.Mental Health: Psychological distress is most common among young and disabled adults, who also face challenges accessing mental health care.Physical Activity: Less than half of adults (46.6%) met recommended physical activity guidelines.Healthcare Access: Barriers to GP visits have risen, with 25.7% of adults citing delays in getting appointments. Emergency department visits have increased over the same period.Oral Health: Over three-quarters of adults (76.6%) rated their oral health positively.Food Security: One in four children (27%) lived in households where food ran out often or sometimes in the past year.The findings underscore both progress and challenges across key areas of public health. The Ministry of Health will use this data to continue shaping policies and improving health outcomes for all New Zealanders.

Mayor Wayne Brown has unveiled his Draft Mayoral Proposal for Auckland Council’s Annual Plan 2025-26, outlining significant reforms to council-controlled organisations (CCOs) that he had committed to during his 2022 mayoral campaign. The proposal aims to address issues such as a lack of democratic accountability, inefficiency, and wasteful spending within the current CCO model.“I was clear when I ran for mayor that I would take back control of council organisations and make them democratically accountable,” Mayor Brown said. “Aucklanders voted for CCO reform, and they expect us to get on with the job.”The proposed changes seek to improve the way Auckland Council functions by enhancing accountability, eliminating inefficiencies, and strengthening decision-making processes. CCOs currently absorb more than half of Auckland’s $6.4 billion annual budget and manage two-thirds of the region’s publicly owned assets, valued at nearly $47 billion. The mayor hopes that restructuring will help restore public trust, improve cost-effectiveness, and reduce service duplication funded by ratepayers.Among the key reforms, Mayor Brown suggests bringing urban regeneration and property management services back under council control, which would result in the disbandment of Eke Panuku Development Auckland. He also proposes consolidating economic development, destination marketing, and major events under the council, while retaining the trust structure of Auckland Unlimited to manage regional facilities like the Auckland Art Gallery and Auckland Zoo.For Auckland Transport (AT), the mayor has made progress in discussions with central government to restore democratic oversight. While full structural changes to AT will require new legislation, immediate steps will include transferring some of its back-office functions to Auckland Council control.The draft proposal, which has been informed by public input, will be discussed in a workshop with the council’s Budget Committee this week. A final decision on the changes will be made in December, with implementation following once the final proposal is adopted.The full Draft Mayoral Proposal is available on the Auckland Council website.

Police Minister Mark Mitchell has highlighted early successes in crime reduction, following a year of law and order reforms. The Minister, reflecting on his first year in office, expressed confidence that the changes are starting to show positive results in public safety.In August 2023, Mitchell committed to resigning if the public had not seen a measurable improvement in safety within 12 months. “The public expects Ministers to be accountable,” he said, underscoring his determination to make New Zealand the safest country in the world.Among the key improvements, crime victimisations have fallen by 3 per cent, while foot patrols have increased by 30 per cent. Notably, ram raids have dropped by over 60 per cent, and there have been reductions in serious assaults (down 3 per cent) and aggravated robberies (down 11 per cent).However, retail crime remains a challenge, with thefts continuing to rise, though violent incidents in the sector have slowed. Gang membership growth has also significantly slowed, with a 1 per cent increase this year compared to 10 per cent in 2023.Mitchell pointed to several successful police operations targeting gangs such as the Mongrel Mob and Comancheros, with no towns overtaken by gang activity. High-profile gang events, including funerals and runs, have been closely monitored by police without major disruption.While acknowledging there is more work to be done, Mitchell expressed optimism about continued progress. “I believe I have delivered on my promise to show change in my first 12 months as Police Minister,” he said. He also highlighted that future efforts, including the Government’s social investment approach, will play a significant role in further improving safety across the country.*The data is sourced from the Police’s monthly victimisations and ram raids statistics, both of which are publicly available on the Police Data website, with September data to be uploaded by the end of the month.

New Zealand should copy the Australian ban on social media for children under 16, a public health researcher says.The Australian government said it would pass a law banning social media for children under 16. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced yesterday that a bill will be introduced to parliament within weeks.Under the law, social media platforms like X, TikTok and Instagram would be responsible for working out how to block children under 16 from using the sites.Nine to Noon host Kathryn Ryan spoke with University of Auckland senior research fellow Samantha Marsh - who is also spokesperson for the lobby group Before 16 - who said New Zealand should follow Australia's lead.Marsh said the responsibility should shift to social media platforms, where age verification technology was increasingly effective."They're huge tech industries - they know how old kids are ... I don't think it should be falling on kids themselves. It's a platform that elicits addictive-like behaviours. We can't rely on teenagers and kids to monitor themselves."Monitoring children's online behaviour shouldn't fall to parents and caregivers either, as that would be a "full-time job", Marsh said.The Australian legislation was designed to empower parents, she added."It's about standing up and saying, we know this is harming our kids and we need to do something about it. Just like we do with alcohol and vaping."Kids will find a workaround ... but that's the same for those other products as well."Ryan queried whether the age of 16 was too high to be practicably enforceable?The key was to keep children off social media before then, Marsh said, as that was when they were especially vulnerable to adverse effects on their mental health."In a perfect world I'd say 18 - like we do with other products like this. But I don't think 16 is at all too old."Before that age, there's a lot of brain development going on that these products can really interfere with."Among the downsides found in research were increases in anxiety, depression, self harm, sleep, self esteem and attention."I see this as a real public health issue, and it impacts kids differently."Most parents these days remembered the time before social media, and kids needed to be supported to transition "back to the life ... we grew up in, where we had great friendships without social media".Australian opposition to banThe Australian Child Rights Taskforce - made up of over 100 academics and 20 civil society organisations - wrote an open letter to the Australian government last month, calling instead on Albanese to impose "safety standards" on social media platforms.Among the concerns were the affects the ban would have on access and participation for young people, and that it would dis-incentivise social media platforms from having safety features.One of those signatories was Professor Judith Bessant, from RMIT University in Melbourne.She told Nine to Noon there were significant benefits to social media, and the policy would not be enforceable."The idea that platforms will self-regulate is ridiculous. It's in their interest not to."They benefit themselves from surveilling everyone ... they scrape the personal data and then they sell it on to others, and then it's used to hit you with advertisements.""They idea that they will regulate themselves - it's not gonna happen."Albanese's suggestion the law would make it easier for parents was false, and there was no clarity on how it would enforced, she said."It's not being thought through... It will create more tension and ... family conflict. A lot of parents won't understand what's going on, but will be fearful that it's illegal."She also questioned how it would be enforced in schools."Young people still use it at lunchtime, before and after school. It's going to cause a lot of tension."Bessant said there needed to be communication with children about the impact of social media use."I'm not saying we have a laissez-faire approach. We do have a responsibility and duty of care to young people, but this is not going to work."

The Hibiscus Coast community, alongside the wider Auckland region, continues to make strides in addressing climate disruption. Over the past year, Auckland Council’s efforts have involved more than 74,000 residents in programmes designed to empower community-led climate initiatives.Through grants, education, and advocacy, 61 community groups have been supported to tackle climate challenges head-on. Together, these initiatives have reduced 6,600 tonnes of carbon emissions—the equivalent of removing 3,400 cars from Auckland’s roads for a year.Councillor Richard Hills, Chair of the Policy and Planning Committee, highlighted the importance of collaborative efforts. “By harnessing the collective wisdom and ingenuity of iwi and communities, we are supporting and enabling bold, community-led climate action,” he said.The council’s approach has included:Distributing over $360,000 through the Auckland Climate Grant to fund local projects.Dedicating 20% of grant funding to Māori, Pasifika, Asian, and youth-led initiatives.Generating more than $700,000 in non-rates revenue to scale pilot projects.Implementing eight Māori-led initiatives focused on energy resilience, infrastructure, and employment.One standout programme, Spongy Schools, Spongy Cities, offers hands-on education at the Auckland Botanic Gardens Experience Centre. It teaches students about nature-based solutions to flooding and equips them to bring these concepts back to their schools. To date, over 520 students from five schools have participated, learning how to manage water flow, improve biodiversity, and prevent flood damage.Senior Sustainable Schools Advisor Susie Bettany emphasised the programme’s importance, noting, “As we experience more extreme weather events, communities are facing repeated flooding and damage to cherished places. Supporting schools to absorb excess water is empowering students to make a meaningful difference.”