New data from the Real Estate Institute of New Zealand (REINZ) show the national median house price dipped slightly in August, but most regions recorded year-on-year gains as more properties hit the market.The median price across New Zealand fell $4,000, or 0.5%, to $761,000 compared with August 2024. Excluding Auckland, the median rose 1.5% to $690,000.Auckland itself was up 1.3% to $964,000. Gisborne led regional increases with an 11.3% jump to $690,000, followed by Southland (up 8.9% to $465,000) and the West Coast (up 7.8% to $385,000).Sales activity was subdued. Nationally, transactions dropped 3.7% year-on-year to 5,866, with only six regions seeing more sales than last August. Waikato, Gisborne and Southland were the standouts. Listings, on the other hand, climbed 9% nationwide, taking total inventory to 30,000 properties.REINZ Chief Executive Lizzy Ryley said both buyers and sellers are cautious as spring approaches. “While many expected the recent OCR change to encourage more activity, the history of REINZ data suggests we may be cautiously optimistic about increased activity in the coming months.”For the Hibiscus Coast, steadier prices mean buyers still face hefty mortgages, but a bigger pool of listings could offer more choice heading into the spring selling season. With Auckland’s market holding firm, Coasties weighing up a move may find it easier to shop around without prices racing ahead.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

Food prices climbed 5.0% in August compared to last year, according to Stats NZ, with Foodstuffs’ own basket showing a 5.1% rise.The grocery co-ops say a harsh winter was to blame for big jumps in some vegetables, while other staples fell.Green cabbages were up 78% and broccoli 76%, making them some of the priciest greens in years.By contrast, kumara dropped 15% and kiwifruit 12%, with canned tuna also cheaper.Olive oil saw the steepest fall, down 22% as European supply rebounded.Butter, cheese, steak and lamb remain stubbornly high, still costing 30% or more above last year.Foodstuffs Managing Director Chris Quin said global demand and supply shortages continue to drive up dairy and meat, though recent drops in international butter prices may filter through in time.Quin also pointed to the timing of PAK’nSAVE’s annual birthday sales as a factor in the year-on-year comparison.He said supplier costs are still rising, up 5.5% in August, leaving little room for retailers to absorb increases.For Coasties, the shifts are felt weekly at the checkout.Families are juggling dearer greens like cabbage, pushed up by winter weather, alongside cheaper fruit and pantry items, while hoping global price drops in staples like butter and olive oil flow through to local shelves soon.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

Police have launched a new safety campaign teaching Kiwis what to do in the unlikely event of an armed offender incident in a crowded place.The advice is built around three words: Escape, Hide, Tell.That means move quickly and quietly away from danger if it’s safe, stay out of sight and silence your phone, then call 111 when you can.Police Minister Mark Mitchell says the campaign is not about increased risk, but about giving people confidence.“New Zealanders love to get together and this is all about being prepared in public spaces, such as sports venues, shopping centres or transport hubs,” he says.Businesses are backing the campaign, with the Crowded Places Business Advisory Group and Community Advisory Group helping spread the message. John Yates from Scentre Group says safety is the highest priority: “Remaining vigilant and remembering these three words could make a difference.” From this month, Westfield centres will display Escape, Hide, Tell messages on their digital screens. Advisory group leaders Paul Patel and Mat Hellyer say the strategy strengthens public safety and encourages shared responsibility for keeping spaces secure.Similar campaigns overseas have helped people feel more secure in large gatherings, and officials hope the same will apply here. Businesses, schools, community groups and families are encouraged to discuss the steps so everyone knows how to respond if needed.While the chance of such an incident remains low, the message is clear: being prepared is the best way to keep ourselves and others safe. Police are also urging people to report suspicious behaviour, either by calling 111 in an emergency, or using 105 and Crime Stoppers for non-urgent information.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

Consumer confidence is soggy, after the economy hit a mid-year soft patchConsumers are still struggling with high living costs and the weak jobs marketWomen are more pessimistic than menAuckland rebounds, most upbeat regionConsumers remain pessimistic, despite recent interest rate cuts, as they struggle with spending power squeezed by continued increases in living costs.The Westpac-McDermott Miller Consumer Confidence Index edged down 0.3 points in September to 90.9 - effectively unchanged from the June quarter - after the economy hit a mid-year soft patch.A level below 100 indicated there were more households pessimistic about the economic outlook than those who were optimistic.Westpac senior economist Satish Ranchhod said the softness in consumer confidence was notable, especially as the survey was conducted just after the Reserve Bank delivered another interest rate cut in August."Reductions in the official cash rate and the related falls in mortgage rates will help to boost many households' disposable incomes over the coming year," he said. "However, it will take some time for those reductions to flow through to households' back pockets."Ranchhod said a weak jobs market, subdued house prices and continuing cost-of-living increases offset the benefit of lower interest rates.Confidence was low across all income groups, but was weakest among those on lower incomes.Ranchhod said rises in the cost of living were particularly tough for those on lower incomes, who spent a larger share of their incomes on essentials.Women remained more pessimistic than men, their confidence dropping by three points to an index score of 83.4. By contrast, confidence for men rose by 3.1 points to 99.6.McDermott Miller Limited market research director Imogen Rendall said women were also more pessimistic about the future."Only one in 10 women expect good economic times over the next 12 months, compared with just over a quarter of men."Regionally, confidence picked up in Auckland and Wellington, and Auckland became the most confident region in the country with a reading of 97 - although the score remained in pessimism territory.Ranchhod cautioned that Auckland was recovering from a low base and, despite rising slightly, Wellingtonians remained deeply pessimistic.The picture was equally mixed in the regions, as dairy powerhouses Waikato and Canterbury produced readings of 92.0, while Taranaki/Whanganui at 81, and Nelson and the West Coast at 79 had the lowest confidence.Ranchhod believed softness in the labour market in those regions offset any boost from the buoyant primary produce sector.Spending on Westpac-issued cards was weakest in Wellington and the top of South Island versus a year ago, and strongest in Southland and Otago.

Aucklanders will soon get their say on how and where the city grows, with a major planning decision set to open for public submissions in November.RMA Reform Minister Chris Bishop confirmed the Government is preparing for a six-week consultation window, from 3 November to 19 December, if Auckland Council withdraws its controversial Plan Change 78 later this month.The Council had asked Parliament for the power to scrap PC78, which applied blanket medium-density housing rules across suburbs, and instead bring forward a new plan that lets Aucklanders choose where growth should go.The change would also allow the Council to “downzone” flood-prone areas.If PC78 is dropped, a fresh plan will still need to provide the same amount of housing capacity overall.But the new approach would give locals more say, while ensuring greater housing density is built near City Rail Link stations.Hearings are expected in the new year before an independent panel, with the entire process likely to take 18 months.Bishop said the aim is to deliver certainty after years of delay, while unlocking more housing options.For Hibiscus Coast residents, the outcome could shape how development pressures flow north, especially around transport corridors and areas at risk of flooding.It’s a chance for Coasties to weigh in on Auckland’s growth map and what it means for local neighbourhoods.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

New OECD modelling shows New Zealand’s economy won’t double in size until 2055 unless big changes are made to how organisations run. Real GDP, now at US$216 billion, is expected to grow just 48% by 2040, with most of that coming from population growth rather than productivity.Productivity per hour worked is now around 40% lower than in countries like Denmark and Sweden. Experts warn that this gap means weaker wages, living standards and competitiveness.Craig Steel, a workplace performance expert from Vantaset, says many Kiwi firms are putting too much faith in AI. “There’s a misguided belief that AI will close the gap for any organisation that applies it. But when technology is layered on top of disconnected leadership and compliance systems, the gains rarely occur.”Craig Steel, from Vantaset. Photo: SuppliedSteel says the real barrier isn’t technology itself, but leadership, culture and capability. He warns of a “two-speed economy” where digital-first firms accelerate while traditional sectors struggle.Former All Blacks manager Darren Shand adds that New Zealand should borrow lessons from sport. “The All Blacks didn’t win because of tools. They won because of belief, clarity and discipline. That same clarity is missing from many organisations right now.”For Coasties, the message hits home. If the national economy stays stuck in low-gear productivity, it means slower wage growth, tougher business conditions, and fewer chances for local families to get ahead.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

Emergency services rushed to Central Boulevard in Silverdale around 6.50am today after a serious crash involving a car and a truck.Police say one person is in a critical condition. Central Boulevard has been closed while emergency crews attend, and motorists are being advised to avoid the area.The Serious Crash Unit is on site and WorkSafe has been notified. An investigation will determine what caused the collision.More updates will follow as information comes to hand.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

The Government is updating the Commerce Act for the first time in nearly two decades, aiming to create fairer markets and give both consumers and businesses more certainty.Economic Growth Minister Nicola Willis says the changes are about “certainty and reliability for businesses,” while ensuring competition drives growth and sharper prices.Commerce and Consumer Affairs Minister Scott Simpson adds that the reforms will strengthen the Commerce Commission, separating its governance and regulatory functions so it can make faster, more transparent decisions.Key updates include stopping unfair tactics like creeping acquisitions and predatory pricing, clearer merger rules, and giving the Commission new tools such as pausing or calling in risky mergers before they’re completed.Businesses will also be able to commit to limiting their market power as part of merger applications, helping resolve competition concerns without lengthy disputes.The reforms are set to be introduced to Parliament before Christmas and passed by mid-2026.For Coasties, this could mean more choice on shop shelves, stronger protections against big players squeezing out smaller competitors, and ultimately a fairer go for local businesses trying to grow in competitive markets.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

A bus has crashed into a liquor store in Silverdale village, leaving two people injured and causing damage to neighbouring businesses.The crash happened about 8pm last night on Silverdale Street. Four fire trucks and a support vehicle attended the scene alongside police.The owner of Silverdale Liquor Centre said he was told the bus ploughed into his shop, also damaging the Bendon store next door. He confirmed no staff inside his store were hurt.Photo: RedditPolice said two people suffered moderate injuries. A section of Silverdale Street was blocked while crews worked to recover the bus.With both shops out of action for now, Coasties may notice changes in their usual routines.Photo: RedditSeen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

The Government’s new sentencing reforms take effect today, with Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith saying the changes are about restoring real consequences for crime.Goldsmith said communities and workers had been let down by a culture of excuses and leniency in the justice system. “This Government promised to restore real consequences for crime. That’s exactly what we’re delivering,” he said.Key changes include:A 40% cap on sentence discounts for mitigating factors, unless a lighter sentence would be manifestly unjust.Ending repeat discounts for youth and remorse.A new aggravating factor for serious retail crime against sole charge workers or those with connected home businesses.Stronger use of cumulative sentences for offending on bail, in custody, or on parole.A sliding scale for guilty pleas, with the maximum discount dropping from 25% at an early stage to just 5% if entered during trial.A requirement for courts to consider victim interests.Two further aggravating factors have been added: targeting adults who use young people to commit crime, and offenders who broadcast or livestream their offending online.For Coasties, the reforms could mean tougher outcomes for crimes that affect small local businesses and families, as well as greater recognition of victims’ experiences in the court process.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

Watercare officially opened the new Snells Beach Wastewater Treatment Plant yesterday, a key step in its $450 million programme to transform wastewater services for Warkworth and the Snells/Algies area.The new facility is already handling more than half of Warkworth’s wastewater, with a pump station at Lucy Moore Memorial Park, a five-kilometre pipeline, and a new ocean outfall working together to keep the system running. By October, all of Warkworth’s flows will be treated here.Mayor Wayne Brown said the plant is designed to support growth over the next 35 years, with capacity for thousands more residents and future upgrades built into its design. He called it a big win for the environment, cutting wet-weather overflows and improving the health of the Mahurangi River and nearby marine ecosystems.Watercare chief executive Jamie Sinclair said the project marks a new standard. The improved technology allows the older Warkworth and Snells Beach plants to be decommissioned, ending discharges to the Mahurangi River. Treated water will now go 800 metres out to sea at Martin’s Bay.For locals, this means safer waterways and more reliable services in our growing northern towns. With summer coming, cleaner rivers and beaches are something many locals will notice and appreciate.Commissioning continues through October, with the old plants set to close soon after. A final pipeline project, starting next year, will further reduce overflows and support growth in north Warkworth.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

New Zealand shouldn’t pin its hopes on copying Ireland or Singapore, argues PhD student Angus Dowell.Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has often praised those two nations as models, including during the launch of Amazon Web Services’ $7.5b Auckland cloud project.But Dowell says the comparison doesn’t stack up.Ireland won global tech giants with low taxes and EU access, while Singapore’s growth came from massive state investment and tight control of key industries.Neither path fits New Zealand, a mid-sized, far-flung economy where the digital sector has mostly grown to serve domestic needs.Amazon’s new Auckland cloud centres highlight the mismatch, Dowell says.While they may speed up local services, the bigger benefits — jobs, exports, global competitiveness — remain mostly hypothetical.Much of Amazon’s NZ revenue is still routed through Ireland to reduce tax.For the Hibiscus Coast, that raises questions about what these big-ticket projects really deliver.If locals are to see genuine gains, it’ll take clear rules, fair tax, and investment that sticks here rather than flowing offshore.Dowell argues it’s time for a grounded debate on sovereignty and regulation, instead of chasing models that don’t fit.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

We love shining a spotlight on the local businesses that make our community thrive.Today, we’re excited to share the story of Hear Again, located in Whangaparaoa.At Coast Plaza, tucked among the daily bustle of shoppers, there’s a place where life’s most precious sounds are restored.For 13 years, Hear Again has been helping locals rediscover the voices, music, and everyday moments that make living on the Hibiscus Coast so special.Step through their doors and you’re welcomed not just as a client, but as part of the family.Hear Again is more than a clinic. It’s a family-owned business where personalised care comes first.The team offers everything from full diagnostic assessments and free hearing checks to expert hearing aid fittings, gentle ear wax removal, custom protection, and even home visits.What makes them unique is their independence.They aren’t tied to one brand, so every solution is chosen to fit the person, not the other way around.From the very first fitting, the hearing aids belong to the client, giving people confidence and ownership in their journey.The story of Hear Again began when Samantha Foster, Operations Director, and Steve Foster, Clinical Director, saw a better way forward.After years in a large hearing care chain, they wanted to bring hearing care back to what really matters: people. Their vision was simple—expert clinical support combined with genuine, ongoing care that continues long after an appointment ends.That passion has shaped Hear Again into the trusted, friendly clinic locals know today.One proud moment came in 2024 when Hear Again was nominated for the 2degrees Customer Service Award.For Samantha and Steve, it wasn’t just recognition—it was a sign that the personal, caring approach they set out to create was being felt and appreciated.It was a reminder that hearing care is about far more than technology.It’s about wellbeing, confidence, and the joy of feeling connected.That connection is exactly why locals love Hear Again.Clients know they’ll see the same smiling faces each time they visit, building trust and comfort with every appointment.Beyond the clinic, the team actively supports the community by sponsoring events and tournaments.Their 13th birthday, celebrated recently with the help of neighbouring Coast Plaza businesses, was a highlight that captured the spirit of community they are proud to belong to.Looking ahead, Samantha and Steve hope to grow Hear Again slowly and carefully across New Zealand.They’re determined that every new location carries the same heart, independence, and quality that Whangaparaoa locals have come to rely on.By staying at the forefront of hearing care while never losing sight of what matters most, they’re ensuring their clients continue to reconnect with the sounds that make life rich.To keep hearing care within reach, Hear Again also offers finance options from just $10 a week, making it possible for more people to access the help they need.You’ll find Hear Again at Coast Plaza in Whangaparaoa, or online at hearagain.co.nz.To chat with the team, call 09 424 6666.If you or someone you love is ready to hear those cherished sounds again, the friendly team at Hear Again is there to help.

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.