Coasties preparing for tertiary education can look forward to the introduction of a new final-year Fees Free scheme starting 1 January 2025.This initiative, announced by Tertiary Education and Skills Minister Penny Simmonds, will provide eligible first-time learners with up to $12,000 to cover their final year of provider-based study or the last two years of work-based learning.The new programme replaces the current first-year Fees Free scheme, which will conclude at the end of 2024.Payments under the final-year model will be available after learners complete their qualifications, with the first payments expected in 2026 for studies completed in 2025.“This decision reflects the Government’s focus on incentivising educational success and ensuring funding delivers maximum value for both learners and communities,” Ms Simmonds said.The entitlement applies to learners studying at Level 3 and above on the New Zealand Qualifications and Credentials Framework.The initiative aims to reward students for their perseverance, motivating them to complete their studies and achieve their educational goals.The policy, approved by Cabinet in April 2024, was developed as part of the National-New Zealand First Coalition’s commitment to improving tertiary education funding.The Tertiary Education Commission and Inland Revenue will oversee its implementation. Learners will be able to claim the entitlement through myIR from early 2026, supported by a streamlined data-sharing process.“This Government is focused on fostering educational achievement, rewarding perseverance, and preparing learners for bright futures,” Ms Simmonds said.For the Hibiscus Coast community, the new scheme offers local students and families an opportunity to pursue higher education with greater financial support, enabling long-term benefits for individuals and the community as a whole.Have a story to share?Contact [email protected]

It's been a tough year for proponents of electric vehicles.From 1 January, the Clean Car Discount ended and rebates were no longer available to purchasers.From 1 April, electric vehicles and plug-in hybrids started to be charged road user charges.Now, ACC levies are set to increase from $42.09 in the current year - the same as a petrol car - to $109.05 in the next financial year.By the 2027/28 year, the levy for electric vehicle owners will be $122.24 - twice the petrol rate.Until now, electric car ACC rates have been discounted as the Government tried to boost EV ownership rates.But this Government is generally unwinding those incentives. Petrol cars also pay ACC levies on petrol they buy at the pump.Kirsten Corson, chair of Drive Electric, which represents the sector, said it had been "really hard". She said while the changes to the clean car discount scheme and the road user charges had been communicated before the election, the ACC levy was a surprise."It is sending a message to the market which isn't as positive as we would like."Obviously from a Drive Electric perspective, we want to see fair and equitable policies put in place."The average petrol car in New Zealand is 15 years old, the average EV is less than four. They are a lot safer cars with newer technology, the risk of accidents is a lot lower with EVs… in the bigger scheme, it's a small impact but these all add up."Motor Industry Association chief executive Aimee Wiley said the Government wanted to maintain consistency in policy settings."However, the timing of this change could be better for both the new vehicle industry and motorists. The MIA strongly urged the government to carefully consider the broader implications - timing, impacts and outcomes - of such policy decisions before determining when to proceed."Effective policy changes must strike a balance and consider consumer affordability and economic, social, and environmental factors affecting New Zealand."The MIA does not support the timing of this decision, which we believe is premature. We are deeply concerned about its impact on the already fragile EV market. A decline in consumer demand for EVs will significantly hinder the industry's ability to meet the increasingly stringent CO2 targets set for 1 January 2025."Infometrics chief executive Brad Olsen said the incentives were never going to last forever."Now we've got a good proportion the government is going, 'They need to pay their way just as much' - but it does feel like [the charges and levies] have come through all at once."It comes at a time when everyone has got a much heightened focus on cost after going through the most intense inflation our country has had in a generation."The fuel excise duty probably "undercooked" the cost that petrol cars should be paying, Olsen said.This was calculated on the basis that a car that used a certain amount of petrol would have driven a typical amount."As cars got more fuel efficient it takes less fuel to do the same distance and for the same hit on the road. So cars are using less petrol and paying less fuel excise duty - all else being equal."If or when we can get better use charging on vehicles, if you got rid of fuel excise duty and petrol cars had to pay road user charge, we would probably see something quite similar between EVs and petrol cars."Registrations of new, full battery electric vehicles were down 55 percent in the year to November compared to the same time a year earlier, Olsen said.Plug-in hybrids were down 51 percent.Petrol vehicles dropped 5 percent and diesel 22 percent."The challenge here is you've got much more difficult economic times… [but we've seen] a much greater hit to those vehicle types."EVs cheaper post-rebateWiley said the messaging to consumers had changed and that made it seem as though EVs were not as affordable as they used to be."What consumers don't necessarily know is that EVs are cheaper now than with the rebate. We knew over time the price of technology would come down anyway but the price of technology hasn't come down, it's more because of a sudden change in consumer demand."What used to be two or three months of stock became one or two years because no one was buying. You can't sit on EVs - they don't like to just sit still, the batteries need to be used or refurbished if they're not used."This had led distributors and manufacturers trying to clear stock, Wiley said."There's never been a better time to be buying [in] terms of price point but the problem is once they've cleared their stock the prices won't stay like that forever."Some distributors were making massive losses this year, she said.If people could charge their cars at home they would cost the equivalent of 40c a litre to run, Wiley said."The messaging to the consumer has been heavily dominated by policy this year rather than features. EVs are newer, safer, cleaner but it's a new technology and that comes with hesitation for some people to want to adapt. When the ACC changes hit, that's going to have as similar impact in the short-term as road user charges on EVs did."Corson said EVs still stacked up from a running perspective. "They're still the most cost-effective option for Kiwis to drive. If you're charging at home after-hours, it's a massive saving. If you're charging overnight it's about $3 per 100km."This worked out to about $20 per 100km in a typical car.The futureWiley said the industry needed to consider how it could communicate more strongly how the move to EVs was less about policy change and more about opportunities for consumers."What's best for the consumer, what's best for the environment. What do we want our fleet in New Zealand to look like in the future?"The sentiment around electric vehicles feels negative but I don't think it should. They're a really impressive product… I don't think we should be playing one type of power off against another… when it comes time to buy our next vehicles, if we all buy the cleanest, safest newest car we can afford, it will have the biggest meaningful difference for human safety, human health and air quality and the environment long-term. If people thought about that it would make a big difference."Corson said it would take a while for New Zealand to "flip its fleet" to the point where more cars were electric."In the likes of Norway, where they've had a lot of incentives, over 90 percent of new car sales are electric. The reality is it takes decades to be able to flip your fleet. They're sitting at over 35 percent of the total fleet but they've been working on it since 1990. If you look at New Zealand, we've got one of the oldest and dirtiest fleets in the OECD. It's going to take a bit longer."Corson said she would like the government to consider whether the ACC levies were equitable.Policies to encourage homes and businesses to adopt smart charging infrastructure would also be welcome."That's set to save us billions of dollars - as opposed to doing it retrospectively, which will cost twice as much."

Your Weekly News Fix.Catch up on the top local stories that made headlines this week!Top Stories You Need to Know…Penlink Project Makes Significant ProgressWatch VideoAuckland Overnight Motorway ClosuresRead moreAll the road closures that might impact your summer road tripRead more Temporary Closure Hits Wenderholm Regional ParkRead moreChristmas Beetles: A Seasonal CuriosityRead moreStay 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]

Locals along the Hibiscus Coast Highway experienced traffic disruptions on Friday afternoon as firefighters responded to a large scrub fire in the area. Crews from Silverdale, East Coast Bays, and Manly fire stations were called to contain the fire.According to Fire and Emergency, the fire burned through approximately 200 by 30 metres of vegetation at its peak. Five fire trucks, a tanker, and two support units were deployed to the scene to battle the flames and prevent further spread.As of late afternoon, fire crews remained on-site, working to extinguish hotspots and ensure the area was safe.The fire caused delays for motorists along the Hibiscus Coast Highway. Fire and Emergency did not report any injuries or structural damage caused by the incident.In a separate, earlier event on Friday, the Manly Fire Station also attended a minor incident at Tindalls Beach.Crews have reminded the public to remain vigilant during dry and windy conditions, as vegetation fires can escalate quickly.Have a story to share?Contact [email protected]

Locals will be interested to learn that three men are facing charges following a shoplifting incident in Albany on Thursday afternoon.Police were called to a store on Greville Road at around 1.50 pm on 26 December after two individuals reportedly left without paying for several items.The pair fled the area in a vehicle driven by a third person, heading northbound towards East Coast Road.Shortly after, Police located the vehicle parked nearby on Greville Road.Officers took all three men into custody and conducted a search of the vehicle.During the search, Police discovered approximately $2,700 worth of items, including clothing, perfumes, food products, and toys.Police confirmed that all stolen items have since been returned to their respective stores.Investigations into the incident are ongoing, and further charges have not been ruled out at this time.The three men now face charges in the North Shore District Court.A 33-year-old man is charged with shoplifting and is scheduled to appear in court today.A 31-year-old man faces charges of aggravated assault and two counts of shoplifting and is also due in court today.A 34-year-old man is charged with shoplifting and is scheduled to appear in court on Monday, 6 January.Police continue to investigate the matter, ensuring due process is followed.Have a story to share?Contact [email protected]

As summer warms up the Hibiscus Coast, many of us notice an increase in beetle activity. While Christmas beetles are primarily associated with Australia, our local beetle population becomes more active during this time.Reports suggest that when temperatures rise, more beetles seem to appear, particularly around homes with open windows or doors. Attracted to bright lights, these beetles may land on individuals, causing some to feel uneasy.No Need to WorryThese beetles, though startling, pose little danger to humans. They neither bite nor sting and are not toxic.Additionally, they do not transmit diseases or parasites.What Attracts Them?These herbivorous beetles primarily feed on local vegetation. While their swarming behavior around lights at night can be a nuisance, they do not actively seek human interaction.A Seasonal CuriositySummer beetles are more of a seasonal curiosity than a health risk. As we enjoy the warmer weather, it's interesting to note the increase in beetle activity around our homes and community.Have a story to share?Contact [email protected]

Auckland's railway lines will be empty with no trains operating for the next 32 days.It is the first extended period of rail closures in the city - in total, 96 days of empty tracks are planned, through to the end of January 2026.That means no passenger trains, freight trains, Northern Explorer or Te Huia train.The shutdown is to allow for KiwiRail to complete rail rebuild works that are crucial to the successful opening of City Rail Link in 2026.When will trains be down?KiwiRail and Auckland Transport have tried to match up the rail shutdowns with school and public holiday periods.These include:The summer holidays from 26 December to 27 January 2025Easter and term one holidays from 12 to 27 AprilKing's Birthday from 30 May to 2 JuneMatariki from 20 to 23 JuneLabour weekend from 24 to 27 OctoberSummer holidays from 20 December to 26 January 2026Another 24 days of trains running at single-line reduced frequency are also planned for 2025 - happening every second weekend from 28 June to 21 September, and for 12 consecutive days from 14 to 25 December.A few weeks of back-up closures are also set out, but will only be used if needed - trains will run on a single line, at a reduced frequency. If KiwiRail needs more time to complete work, it has set out 29 total days, in three blocks over January/February, June/July, and September/October school holiday periods.Why does this have to happen?The shutdown makes time to complete the final stages of the Rail Network Rebuild - a long-winded project of upgrading and repairing Auckland's railway system, which commenced in January of 2023.KiwiRail chief infrastructure officer Andre Lovatt said it was "critical upgrade work" to get the network ready for the City Rail Link."What we're doing in that period of time is upgrading our network from a freight train network to one that can withstand or accommodate the very high frequency metro trains that are gonna be on the tracks when CRL opens."City Rail Link, when opened, will double Auckland's rail capacity with four new stations in the CBD.But to ensure the full CRL benefits of more reliable, faster and frequent trains are realised, rebuild work on the rest of the railway network needs to be finished.Without the 96 days of closures, the rebuild would have been completed after CRL's opening."If we weren't able to do that, then all of that taxpayer money that's been invested in CRL hasn't actually resulted in the ultimate benefits of that project," Lovatt said.The government has also put $200 million towards getting the rail rebuild finished.What railway works will be done?KiwiRail will be replacing track foundations and improving drainage on the Western Line between New Lynn and Swanson, and on the Southern Line between Newmarket and Britomart, and between Ōtāhuhu and Papakura, and on other parts of the network.It will be replacing ageing sleepers on bridges around Newmarket, Parnell and near Tāmaki Drive, and working on the Parnell tunnel.And upgrades to track infrastructure, power supplies and signal systems will - among other things - remove the temporary speed restrictions that caused havoc and widespread cancellations last February in Auckland.Upgrades to Middlemore station will be finished, and new stations in Drury and Pareātā will finish construction.Lovatt said KiwiRail was squeezing a decade's worth of work into 15 months."We are going to be able to operate more frequent trains and trains will be able to run faster. In essence, what that will mean is in the city, trains will run every four to five minutes, and journey times - for example from Henderson in the west to the central city - will be a 35-minute journey."What other public transport options are there?Auckland Transport group manager of public transport operations Rachel Cara said rail replacement buses will be put on whenever trains are not running, every 20 minutes, and other frequent routes will be bolstered with extra services.From 6 January, AT will be adding express rail replacement buses as people return to work."We're confident that the plan we have will be able to cope with the number of passengers that will be moving through this four-week period. It's a quieter time of year for public transport with lots of people still on holiday. We're also able to redeploy school buses to support our rail replacement services as well."Cara said the AT operations centre would be closely monitoring the network and traffic flow during the rail shutdown.There was a dedicated plan for the first 32-day shutdown, and Cara said AT will come up with specific plans for the rest of the closures throughout 2025.Have a story to share?Contact [email protected]

Coasties can expect the next four days to bring the following:Friday - 27/12Windy and partly cloudy. Brisk South to Sou'West winds.High: 23Low: 15Saturday - 28/12Generally clear and windy. Breezy to brisk Sou'West winds.High: 23Low: 15Sunday - 29/12Mostly sunny. Fairly breezy Sou'West winds.High: 23Low: 17Monday - 30/12Windy, with morning showers. Breezy to brisk West to Sou'West winds.High: 22Low: 15Looking ahead to the start of the new year, January 1st will be warm, mostly sunny and breezy.Check out our Reports section for 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.

As the festive season continues, many Coasties are seeking ways to spread kindness and joy to those around them.The Hibiscus Coast offers plenty of opportunities to brighten someone’s day and make a positive impact in the neighbourhood.One thoughtful way to spread holiday cheer is by baking treats and sharing them with neighbours.Whether it’s a batch of freshly baked cookies, a loaf of homemade bread, or some festive cupcakes, simple acts of baking can bring warmth and happiness to those who may be feeling lonely or isolated this time of year.Another easy but powerful gesture is leaving kind notes.A handwritten message or small card with a positive, encouraging quote can brighten someone's day.It could be as simple as leaving a note on a neighbour’s doorstep.Supporting local businesses is also a meaningful way to spread kindness during the holiday season.Many small businesses on the Hibiscus Coast rely on community support, and this time of year offers a great opportunity to show appreciation by shopping locally.Whether it’s buying a thoughtful gift or enjoying a meal at a local restaurant, supporting these businesses helps keep the community vibrant and thriving.For those looking to give back in a more hands-on way, volunteering is another fantastic option.The gift of time can be just as meaningful as any material present.It doesn’t take much to brighten someone’s day.The spirit of the season can be felt in small, simple acts.As we head into the new year, let’s remember that kindness is something we can share all year long, not just during the holidays.Have a story to share?Contact [email protected]

Coasties looking to spend their holidays exploring the beautiful Wenderholm Regional Park will have to make other plans, as the park closes temporarily from today (Thursday, 26 December).The closure comes after an issue with the park's water supply left toilet and water facilities out of order. Council officials are working to resolve the problem as quickly as possible."We hope to reopen the park to visitors as soon as possible," said a council spokesperson.In the meantime, visitors can explore other regional parks and beaches in the region. Some popular alternatives include:Shakespear Regional ParkTawharanui Regional ParkMahurangi Regional ParkThese parks offer stunning coastal scenery, walking trails, and picnic areas perfect for a family day out.The council will provide updates on the status of Wenderholm Regional Park's reopening.Have a story to share?Contact [email protected]

Locals, get ready for an unforgettable theatre experience as the award-winning play In Other Words returns to Q Theatre following a sold-out season.Starring celebrated actors Jennifer Ward-Lealand and Michael Hurst, this production offers an intimate and moving exploration of love, memory, and resilience.For the first time, Ward-Lealand and Hurst, who are not only seasoned actors but also a real-life couple, take the stage together in this two-hander written by Matthew Seager.Through the lens of characters Arthur and Jane, the play follows their love story, from their first meeting and courtship to their struggles with the challenges of Alzheimer’s disease.Set to the music of Frank Sinatra, In Other Words beautifully demonstrates the transformative power of music in evoking memories, fostering connection, and inspiring hope.Audiences will experience moments of humour and frustration, reflecting the complexities of life and relationships.The production's previous season received widespread acclaim, with audience members and critics praising its heartfelt performances and thoughtful storytelling.Now, the highly anticipated return promises to captivate new and returning theatre-goers alike.In Other Words runs at Q Theatre for a limited time.Tickets are available online and are expected to sell quickly following the play’s prior success.Have a story to share?Contact [email protected]

It is not unusual for roadworks to ramp up over the summer period, as workers make the most of warm and dry weather.With lots going on, it is important to plan your travel route carefully and where possible, be aware of any detours.NZTA undertakes summer maintenance every year and are going to be renewing over 1800 kilometres of roads this summer.Here's a look at some of the major road works that might impact your travels this summer:AucklandThe Auckland Harbour Bridge will have traffic restrictions and some on-ramps closed for re-surfacing and maintenance under the bridge from Boxing Day (26 December) to 6 January.Lane reductions during the day will be in place on Spaghetti Junction over the same period, while a bridge joint is replaced.Motorists are asking to use the Waterview Tunnel or the Western Ring Route on SH16 to avoid congestion.A full closure will be in place on State Highway 1 Southbound from 9pm to 7am between Victoria Park and Grafton Road.Full list of Auckland Central worksDesert Rd ClosureState Highway 1 from Tūrangi to Waiouru will be closed for rebuilding and repairs for two months from 13 January 2025.This piece of work is kicking off one week later than originally planned, to reduce the impact on summer holiday journeys, an NZTA spokesperson said."This section of SH1 is in one of the worst conditions in the Waikato region, it's also one of the most challenging to fix," regional manager of maintenance and operations for Waikato and Bay of Plenty Roger Brady said."The alpine environment and potential for a cold snap means we have to do this closure in the peak summer months because the ground temperature needs to be at 13 degrees minimum to carry out pavement works."The planned detour is expected to add about half-an-hour to journey times.Top of the South IslandLots going on here, with major repairs on State Highway 60 at Takaka Hill, resilience work underway on State Highway 63 and State Highway 6 at Rai Saddle in Marlborough.NZTA is warning drivers to allow an extra hour for travel between Christchurch and Picton, and an extra 30 minutes between Nelson and Blenheim, due to roadworks.OtagoRoads in Coastal Otago and Dunedin have been in need of repairs and rebuilds after flooding.Ben Parker, Maintenance Contract Manager, said resurfacing started in September and will run through to March/April."If people can build in an extra 20 minutes to their journeys, it will help ease the pressure on everyone and reduce the temptation to make up time if there is a short delay on key routes," he said.The holiday period will be as "free of work" as possible, NZTA said, with re-surfacing continuing from mid-January.NorthlandThe Kamo Bypass on State Highway One will be undergoing a road rebuild and resurfacing for three weeks in January. NZTA says there will be night closures and one through-lane under stop-go during the works. A detour will be set up via the Old State Highway, Kamo Road.Bay of PlentyThe focus of Bay of Plenty's maintenance this summer will be on State Highway 29, near Hanga Road, the Kaimai Cafe and Kaimai School - though work will be carried out at night to minimise impacts to traffic.NZTA is aiming to have as much work completed as possible before Christmas.Full details on Bay of Plenty works (including maps)Manawatu-WhanganuiResealing works will be taking place throughout the region, and NZTA said road users can expect to encounter a number of work sites and newly sealed roads on their summer journeys.Regional Manager of Maintenance and Operations Rua Pani says the focus this season is on more road rebuilding."We're working to improve the overall network condition through more intensive treatments, increasing pavement quality."Road rebuilds have been underway since October on multiple sites on State Highway 1 and State Highway 2 near Dannevirke, with more work planned on State Highway 54 and State Highway 56 near Opiki.NZTA website says there will be "considerable disruption" at times.TaranakiRoad rebuilds began in Taranaki in September, a month earlier than normal.In early January, two areas of roadworks are planned: on State Highway 45 in New Plymouth, night works will cause delays of 5-10 minutes between 6-17 January.And, State Highway 3 at Tangapōrutu will be rebuilt between 7 January and 7 March, with crews working six days a week. Traffic lights will be in place with delays of up to 10 minutes.WellingtonWellington is spared from Tunnel closures during peak holiday time in January - but come February, the Terrace Tunnel will close for four days between 10-13 February, Monday to Thursday.The Mt Victoria Tunnel will close for one day on 2 February, and the Arras tunnel on one day for 2 February.The Terrace and Mt Victoria tunnels will close briefly again in March.Hawke's BayIn addition to the 24/25 summer road programme, cyclone recovery work is continuing in the Hawke's Bay region.Planned renewals works include renewals on State Highway 2, 5 and 50.Meanwhile Transport Rebuild East Coast Hawke's Bay project spokesperson Chris Mahoney said crews are making good progress on multiple cyclone recovery sites, fixing damaged sections of road, stabilising slips, and repairing and maintaining bridges.The recovery programme includes sites at Devil's Elbow and White Pine Bush on SH2, repairs at Dillon's Hill Culvert, and North of Hill Road Culvert on SH5, and bridge repairs at Chesterman's Bridge and Aschott Bridge on SH50."We expect the bulk of recovery work to be completed by autumn next year," Mahoney said.While work on some sites will take longer, Mahoney said much of the traffic management will be completed by Easter.Full details on Central North Island roadworksReseal, resurface, rebuildMore than 1800 lane kilometres - equivalent to 7.5 percent of the network - is expected to be renewed as part of the 2024/25 programme, according to NZTA.This includes resealing, resurfacing and rebuilding existing road surfaces.In addition, as part of the Pothole Prevention Fund, more than 285 lane kilometres of rehabilitation work will be carried out, Transport Minister Simeon Brown announced in October."Rehabilitation involves full width repairs of our existing roads, and renews the life of the roading pavement, rather than simply filling in potholes," he explained."Long lasting rehabilitation work that strengthens the network and prevents potholes from forming in the first place is critical to lifting the quality of our roading network and has a much longer lasting impact than re-sealing the road."

King Charles will deliver his Christmas Day message from a church with links to the medical community, Buckingham Palace says, in a break with tradition amid his continued cancer treatment.The 76-year-old monarch revealed in February that he was battling an unspecified cancer and returned to public duties in April. Last week, a palace source told CNN that his "treatment has been moving in a positive direction" and "will continue into next year".The annual festive broadcast is normally recorded at Buckingham Palace or Windsor Castle. But the British monarch opted to film this year's message at Fitzrovia Chapel in central London, which was previously a hospital chapel before it was demolished in 1924.Buckingham Palace confirmed the location on Monday afternoon after it was first reported by The Daily Telegraph.Charles' decision marks the first time in over a decade that the address has not been recorded on the royal estate. The last message filmed outside a royal residence was in 2006 when the late Queen Elizabeth II recorded her message at Southwark Cathedral.Fitzrovia Chapel - a beautifully ornate Grade II-listed building featuring Byzantine-inspired architecture - is "now a space for quiet reflection, discovery and celebration, connecting diverse communities from all faiths or none," according to Buckingham Palace.The venue also boasts unique royal links as King Charles' grandfather, the Duke of York - later George VI - laid the foundation stone when it was rebuilt in 1928 and returned to help open the building when it was completed in 1935. The chapel was restored between 2013 and 2015.The choice of location reflects the King's deep spirituality and will be seen as an apt selection in a year when both he and his daughter-in-law, Catherine, Princess of Wales, faced their own health challenges.The annual speech from the monarch is traditionally recorded earlier in December and broadcast on television and radio at 3pm on Christmas Day in Britain.New Zealand is the first country in the Commonwealth to broadcast the message, tonight at 6.06pm on RNZ National, and again at 6.50pm on TVNZ's Channel 1.

The Hibiscus Coast is buzzing with festive cheer as Christmas Day brings a chance to relax, celebrate, and spend quality time with loved ones.From Milldale to Gulf Harbour, locals have gone all out, lighting up homes and businesses with dazzling decorations, colourful trees, and glowing displays that create a magical atmosphere for everyone to enjoy.The weather forecast for Christmas Day suggests a mix of sunshine and afternoon showers, with fairly breezy north-to-northeast winds reaching up to 23 km/h. With a 60% chance of rain, Coasties celebrating outdoors should plan ahead and keep umbrellas close by.Despite the wet weather, beaches and parks are likely to remain popular spots for family gatherings. Lifeguards are encouraging everyone to stay safe while enjoying the Coast’s natural beauty.This time of year truly highlights the Coast’s incredible community spirit. Whether it’s a shared meal, a thoughtful gift, or a friendly smile, the magic of Christmas is alive in every act of kindness.From all of us at The Hibiscus Coast App, we wish you a Merry Christmas. Stay safe and have a happy New Year!Have a story to share?Contact [email protected]

As the holiday season gets underway, the Government is urging Hibiscus Coast residents and all Kiwis to prioritise safety on the roads. Transport Minister Simeon Brown has reminded motorists of the increased Police presence throughout the summer period to ensure road safety and enforce traffic regulations.“This time of year can be stressful and result in poor decision-making on our roads,” Mr Brown said.“Whether you are travelling to see loved ones, embarking on a road trip with friends, or exploring all that New Zealand has to offer, please take care and drive responsibly.”Drivers are being advised to remain vigilant, with Police patrolling "anywhere, anytime" to deter unsafe behaviour. Key areas of focus include speeding, driver impairment, and seatbelt compliance. Mr Brown emphasised the importance of adjusting to road conditions and avoiding driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.“Drunk and drugged drivers are the highest contributors to deaths on our roads, and the Government is focused on increased enforcement and providing new tools to Police to reduce alcohol- and drug-related deaths,” Mr Brown stated.In the 2023/24 period, more than 850,000 additional alcohol breath tests were conducted compared to the previous year, with a target of 3.3 million annual breath tests now set. The Government is also advancing plans to introduce roadside oral fluid drug testing in 2025, giving Police new powers to screen drivers for drugs.Mr Brown encouraged all road users to plan ahead this season. “Check the weather conditions, determine where you’re going to have breaks, and ensure you’re not under the influence when you get behind the wheel,” he said.The official Christmas and New Year holiday period runs from 4 pm on Tuesday, 24 December 2024, to 6 am on Friday, 3 January 2025. With increased road policing and new safety measures on the horizon, the message remains clear: drive carefully and protect lives this summer.Have a story to share?Contact [email protected]

With the summer holidays upon us, police are urging Hibiscus Coast residents to take action against family violence, which typically spikes during this time of year.Stressors such as financial pressures, unemployment, increased alcohol consumption, and complex family dynamics can add strain to households.Inspector Natasha Allan, National Manager Family Harm Prevention, emphasised, “Violence is not okay. Police take family and sexual violence seriously and want all victims to be assured if they come forward, their case will be treated with sensitivity and respect.”Inspector Allan encouraged anyone who feels unsafe to trust their instincts and seek help immediately.“You have the right to be safe,” she said.“If you or someone else is in danger, call 111. If you can’t speak, stay silent and follow the operator’s instructions. Your safety comes first—get to a safe distance and call for help.”Recognising that some individuals may struggle with their own behaviours, Inspector Allan added, “We also know there are people who know their behaviour is unacceptable and don’t want to harm their loved ones. Walk away and take a moment so you don’t do something you’ll regret. If you feel like it's time to change, be courageous and get in touch with Change is Possible to start your journey today.”A variety of support services are available for those affected by family violence, including:Women’s Refuge Crisis Line: 0800 733 843 (24 hours)Safe to Talk – Sexual Harm Helpline: 0800 044 334 or text 4334Family Violence Information Line: 0800 456 450Shine National Helpline: 0508 744 633 (9 am to 11 pm)Shakti – Support for Migrant and Refugee Women: 0800 742 584 (24 hours)Gandhi Nivas: 0800 426 344Further resources are available for elder abuse, rainbow communities, and those seeking to build healthier relationships.For more details, visit the listed organisations or click here.Community members are encouraged to reach out to these services to ensure everyone has a safe and supportive summer.Have a story to share?Contact [email protected]

As the festive season approaches, Auckland Airport is gearing up for its busiest period, with 1.8 million travellers expected to pass through its terminals between 9 December and 12 January. The holiday rush will see 1 million international passengers and 800,000 domestic travellers.Auckland Airport Chief Operations Officer Chloe Surridge highlighted the significance of this time of year. "It’s an exciting time at the airport as we head into the busy travel season. The best part about this time of year is helping to re-connect families. We’re proud of the important role we get to play here,” she said.Of the international arrivals, 40% are visiting friends and family, making this period one of joyful reunions. Alongside passengers, the airport is also managing the transport of 26,000 tonnes of cargo during December and January. Key exports include salmon, snapper, lamb, cherries, and honey, which are destined for global markets, ensuring New Zealand’s fresh produce reaches festive tables worldwide.Travel tips have been issued to assist passengers and their families during the holiday rush. Auckland Airport advises that the Transport Hub will be especially busy, with a three-minute dwell time for vehicles in drop-off and pick-up zones. For a smooth arrival, the airport recommends using digital declarations for international arrivals and checking bags for biosecurity compliance.In addition, the airport’s festive touches include a giant “Love NZ” sign featuring iconic Buzzy BeesTM located past duty-free for travellers departing New Zealand.Ms Surridge also acknowledged recent disruptions caused by an external network outage but assured travellers that the issue has been resolved. "Our focus for the festive season remains helping travellers to get where they need to be and doing all we can to ensure people have smooth journeys," she said.With 26 airlines flying non-stop to 41 destinations, including major trade partners such as Australia, China, and the United States, Auckland Airport is prepared for the surge in holiday travel and festive exports.Have a story to share?Contact [email protected]

Hibiscus Coast locals may soon see a boost in healthcare capacity, thanks to a major initiative by the Medical Council and Health New Zealand.The announcement triples the number of exam places available for internationally-trained doctors seeking registration in New Zealand, paving the way for more qualified medical professionals to join the workforce.Health Minister Dr Shane Reti shared the update, confirming that the New Zealand Registration Exam (NZREX) will now accommodate up to 180 international candidates in 2025.This marks a significant increase from the originally planned 60 spots.Exams will be held in March, June, and September next year, an increase from two sittings in 2024.“These hardworking overseas doctors are eager to contribute to our health system, and this change ensures they can take the exams required for registration,” Dr Reti said.He acknowledged long-standing barriers, including limited exam slots and clinical placement opportunities, which have hindered internationally-trained doctors from practising in New Zealand.Health New Zealand has been tasked with securing clinical placements for successful candidates, particularly in general practice, where demand remains high.Dr Reti explained that securing first-year house officer roles, or PGY1 positions, has been another obstacle, but reassured that steps are underway to address this issue.The Minister highlighted the urgency of these changes, sharing stories of internationally-trained doctors who, unable to secure exam spots, have taken non-medical jobs such as driving services.“Their stories have made for sad reading, knowing our health system could benefit from their expertise,” he said.The Medical Council’s swift response to these challenges has been praised, ensuring that no doctors are left scrambling for exam spots.“They shouldn’t be fighting for places as if they were lining up for a pop concert,” Dr Reti added.With these developments, internationally-trained doctors residing in New Zealand will have a clear pathway to employment, complementing the efforts of local healthcare providers.Have a story to share?Contact [email protected]

The Hibiscus Coast community and New Zealanders nationwide can now report scam messages with greater ease, thanks to a new feature in Apple’s latest iOS update. This initiative, delivered in collaboration with the Department of Internal Affairs (DIA) and New Zealand telecommunications providers, aims to combat scam texts and protect users from fraud.With the iOS 18.2 update, available to iPhone 14, 15, and 16 users (depending on their mobile provider), suspicious messages can be reported directly to the DIA using the “Report Junk” option. Once selected, the message details are automatically forwarded to the DIA, enabling swift action.The DIA has partnered with Apple, 2degrees, One NZ, Spark, and Modica Group to enhance scam reporting and detection. Information gathered from public reports is shared with mobile providers, who use it to identify, disrupt, and block phone numbers associated with scams. This collaboration aims to safeguard Kiwis’ privacy and prevent financial losses.Joe Teo, Manager of Digital Messaging at the DIA, highlighted the importance of public participation: “We know that we need all hands on deck to help protect New Zealanders from scammers, and this initiative is a great example of how we are actively working together with industry to make New Zealand networks safer.”Paul Brislen, CEO of the New Zealand Telecommunications Forum, echoed this sentiment, describing the new tool as “a very powerful tool in Aotearoa’s fight against scammers” by enabling real-time blocking of offending numbers.Stuart Wilson, CEO of Modica Group, emphasised the value of automation in scam detection: “Being able to use our safe and secure platform to automate scam reporting and provide it in an easily consumable format to DIA and other fraud teams is a significant step forward in combatting scams.”Users who report scam messages can expect an automated response from the DIA. The feature is set to expand to other Apple and Android devices by 2025. For now, New Zealanders can continue using the free 7726 Report Spam Service by forwarding suspicious messages to that number.Have a story to share?Contact [email protected]