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Ōrewa Library Upgrade Completed Early
Ōrewa Library Upgrade Completed Early

13 May 2025, 11:16 PM

The much-anticipated $6.3 million upgrade of the Ōrewa Library is now complete, ahead of schedule. The upgraded space at 12 Moana Avenue will open to the public on 19 May, bringing a fresh, modern hub for the community. Throughout 2024, library services continued at the Ōrewa Community Centre while the library building underwent a complete transformation.Key to the renovation is the addition of a new mezzanine floor. This new space will allow for two meeting rooms, perfect for book groups, language classes, and study sessions. "The mezzanine will offer students the ideal space to study and provide a variety of other options for community use," says Ōrewa Library Manager Carolyn Hickey.Designed with local culture in mind, the building’s entry panel, Te Kete Mātauranga, created by local iwi artist Hokimai Rosieur, reflects Māori concepts of learning. The modern library will also feature natural wood finishes and a coastal-inspired blue-grey colour scheme, with energy-efficient upgrades like double glazing and solar-powered energy generation.With more space for reading, relaxing, and working, the library is set to support more than 235,000 visitors annually. Local community groups are invited to explore the new library, which includes a children’s area, updated collections, and a lift for accessibility.A Family Fun Day is set for Saturday, 28 June, to mark the official opening. With activities for all ages, including bouncy castles, ice cream, and a sausage sizzle, it's the perfect opportunity for locals to enjoy the new space.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

Social media restrictions will need to be policed by government
Social media restrictions will need to be policed by government

13 May 2025, 3:00 AM

The government needs to take the lead on implementing any age verification processes in its proposal to restrict social media use for under-16s, rather than relying on social media platforms to do the policing, an information systems expert says.National MP Catherine Wedd's member's Bill would - if passed into law - require social media platforms to verify that users are aged 16 or over.Prime Minister Christopher Luxon announced on Sunday that the government will look into a ban as part of its work programme.University of Auckland lecturer Shohil Kishore, whose research focuses on social media, said the proposed ban was a step in the right direction, but would meet obstacles in its implementation.He said social media platforms generated huge revenues from advertising - including advertising to children - and would be reluctant to devote resources to enforcing the rules."I don't think they're going to like doing this, it will just be extra work for them, but it is really important for us as a country to think about how we can regulate technology to best serve us," he said.Kishore said it would also be unsafe, from a data privacy perspective, for social media companies to be tasked with age verification processes.He said the safest way would be for the age verification to be done through a government service, such as the Realme service which was already being used.Kishore said the cost of implementation needed to be part of the government's discussions around this proposal.He expected that this would be a significant cost.Social media platforms also needed to step up to their moral responsibilities, he said."This lack of accountability that we currently have is completely unfair for kids, it puts them at risk of sexual exploitation, cyber bullying and exposure to a lot of harmful content , so they [companies] have to be accountable, we have to make sure these platforms are accountable," said Kishore.Kishore said he hoped that the government will also consider other factors, and bring social media platforms, parents and schools into the conversation.He said parents often lacked awareness about the kind of content children were exposed to - such as "confession pages" set up by students, where children were posting anonymously and engaging in cyber bullying.Another aspect to consider was the definition of social media, and whether online interactive games such as Roblox would be included in the definition, he said.National MP Catherine Wedd's member's Bill would - if passed into law - require social media platforms to verify that users are aged 16 or over. Photo: RNZ / Samuel RillstoneWedd's bill does not currently have the formal backing of the coalition government - meaning that if it is randomly drawn from the current crop of members' bills, it would then be debated in Parliament, before all MPs would vote on its future. However, the members' bill does have the backing of the prime minister - who has earlier said he wanted the government to explore possibly backing it into law quicker.ACT opposed the ban, preventing National from pushing ahead with a government bill.ACT leader David Seymour said he was concerned about social media's effect on children, but wanted a public inquiry to explore options.Seymour is backing the new plan to set up a policy advisory group, however, he told Morning Report Luxon's optimism may have got ahead of him in saying ACT had shifted its position on a social media ban for under 16s."Maybe he's letting the sunny optimism get a bit ahead of him but we reserve the right to speak for our own position, and, if anything, in the last week the rest of politics has come towards ACT's position," Seymour said."... We can't do an immediate bill, there's got to be more investigation into what's happening on social media."Seymour said we need to "stop, collaborate and listen".

Kiwi Kids Once Led the World in Reading
Kiwi Kids Once Led the World in Reading

13 May 2025, 12:31 AM

There is a well-known whakatauki (Māori proverb) that goes: “Ka mua, ka muri” – “walking backwards into the future”.It applies to many areas of life, but in education the idea of looking to the past to inform our way forward seems more relevant than ever.New Zealand was once a world leader in reading.In the early 1970s, as leading literacy educationalist Warwick Elley reminds us, Kiwi teenagers performed best of all countries participating in the International Association for the Evaluation of Educational Achievement.New Zealand students remained good readers throughout the 1990s, earning the top results for reading out of 32 participating countries in the first Programme for International Student Assessment survey in 2000.Overall, New Zealand children are still above average. But while many children learn to read successfully, significant numbers do not.And concern about reading capability has led to a recent curriculum overhaul.The reforms focus on raising reading standards and regular testing.But the lessons of the past suggest we performed better with less focus on raising test scores.In fact, it was a more flexible, balanced approach to English education that provided a strong foundation for literacy.Some clues to why this was possible can be found in the 1953 Primary School Reading Syllabus from the old Department of Education.It was among the first of many research-based reading initiatives in the mid-20th century, along with Ready to Read books in the 1960s, and the Reading Recovery program developed by Marie Clay in the 1970s.Given New Zealand was a conservative postwar society that was yet to grapple meaningfully with colonial history and Treaty rights, the document is surprisingly less rigid than one might expect.In fact, it is largely compatible with contemporary ideas about teaching and learning.In some areas, the 1953 syllabus seems more progressive than the current curriculum, with clear views on inclusiveness and designing teaching to meet individual needs.Ironically, many of today’s parents and grandparents – some of whom support a “back to basics” school system – were educated using this flexible and purpose-driven approach.New Zealand in 1953According to the New Zealand Official Yearbook for 1953, the country was enjoying postwar prosperity with 72% of its exports going to other Commonwealth countries.England was still the “mother country” and the young Queen Elizabeth’s post-coronation visit – also in 1953 – fuelled intense royal fervour.Edmund Hillary conquered Everest, and a highly publicised air race from London to Christchurch helped popularise plane travel.Society was far more egalitarian.In a population of just over two million, only 15 people received an unemployment benefit (there were a variety of other welfare payments such as war pensions).At the same time, New Zealand did not view itself as bicultural in the way it does today.For many Pākehā, Māori culture was little more than a curiosity or a tourist attraction.School was already compulsory from ages seven to 15, and roughly 17% of the population were enrolled in primary schools.These were the children taught to read according to the 1953 syllabus.A brief A5-sized booklet of just 13 pages, it recognises reading as a central component of a rich and full life – and that it can be used for “useful, harmless or nefarious” purposes.Competing with other temptations such as “the exploits of Superman and Mighty Mouse”, as well as cinema and radio, is one of its concerns.But its main aim is to “teach the child to read […] in ways that will encourage him (sic) to use his skill freely and naturally”.Postwar prosperity and a royal tour too: schoolchildren wave Union Jack flags at the Duke of Edinburgh during in early 1954. Getty ImagesAvoiding a standardised approachThe syllabus outlines ideal components of a classroom reading programme: reading to self (silently) and peers (aloud), listening to story and verse, participating in dramatisation, word study and study skills.Word study should include learning about phonics.But the syllabus tempers this with the advice that “there can be no doubt that too early a preoccupation with phonics may serve to kill interest in reading”.This might have been written today by those concerned that structured approaches to literacy will crowd out other important parts of early reading education.The 1953 syllabus says reading material should encompass fiction (including local authors), non-fiction, plays and poetry.While competent reading by all is the goal, the syllabus also states: “A uniform standard of achievement […] is a mistaken aim.”This recognition of variable individual capability is something critics say is missing from today’s curriculum.Expectations are set for each year at school, with teachers strongly encouraged to teach to the year level.The fear is that some students will fall behind as their class moves on, while progress for others will be restricted if they are ahead of those expectations.The 1953 syllabus cautions that the “results of standardised tests should be weighed against the teacher’s own observation […] and modified accordingly”.Encouraging teacher autonomyBy comparison, the new English curriculum is long at 108 pages, complex and prescriptive.It includes a range of aims clustered under the headings “Understand”, “Know” and “Do”.The first encompasses five big ideas learners are expected to develop during their schooling.The second covers the knowledge required in English to become literate.The third outlines the practical steps learners will take in the different phases of their schooling.To be fair, the new curriculum aims to make all children feel good about reading.It encourages using different kinds of texts, focuses on assessment activities that build on one another, and supports teachers to adapt for student differences.And, given its contemporary context, there is an awareness of the important role of culture and the unique place of Māori in New Zealand that is entirely missing in the 1953 document.But the new curriculum also contains directives the 1953 syllabus warned teachers against – namely a preoccupation with teaching phonics, and teaching linked to prescriptive progress measurement and outcomes.Although brief, the 1953 document is arguably broader in scope and requires teachers to have greater skills.A strength of the old syllabus is that it encouraged teacher professionalism, autonomy and judgement in deciding the best next steps for each learner.Overall, the 2025 curriculum seems the more constrictive document.The 1953 syllabus presents a view of reading that prioritises the human experience – reading as an aesthetic experience as well as a practical skill.Authors:Ruth Boyask - Director of LitPlus, AUT School of Education, Auckland University of Technology and John Milne - Senior Lecturer in Education, Auckland University of Technology

Government’s Tougher Action on Boy Racers
Government’s Tougher Action on Boy Racers

12 May 2025, 9:15 PM

The Government is stepping up its efforts to tackle anti-social driving, including boy racers and fleeing drivers, with new tougher penalties.Transport Minister Chris Bishop and Police Minister Mark Mitchell announced the proposed measures, which include vehicle forfeiture or destruction for repeat offenders, and stricter fines for noise and illegal vehicle gatherings.For Hibiscus Coast residents, these measures could have a significant impact on reducing dangerous driving behaviour seen in some local hotspots.Police are increasingly dealing with anti-social driving events, particularly on rural roads and in more remote areas of the Coast, where street racing and noisy vehicle gatherings are becoming more common.With these tougher penalties, authorities will be better equipped to curb these behaviours and create safer conditions for our local communities.Key highlights of the plan include:Stronger penalties for those who flee from police, engage in street racing, or participate in intimidating convoys, including mandatory vehicle destruction or forfeiture.More powers for the police to manage illegal gatherings, such as closing off roads or public areas and issuing fines.Noise fines for making excessive noise from a vehicle will increase, from $50 to $300.The new laws, set to be introduced in mid-2025, will make it clear that there will be serious consequences for reckless and dangerous driving behaviours.Bishop and Mitchell say Kiwis are fed up with the danger and disruption caused by these drivers, and it’s time to take decisive action.This comes as police have reported an increase in such anti-social driving behaviours, with many offenders showing no regard for the safety of others.The measures aim to ensure that those who put others at risk face consequences that will deter future offences.The Government has committed to stronger action to protect communities, with the new penalties sending a clear message to boy racers and fleeing drivers across the country, including those causing trouble on the Hibiscus Coast.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

Measles Exposure Confirmed in Auckland
Measles Exposure Confirmed in Auckland

12 May 2025, 12:00 AM

A new measles case has been confirmed in Auckland, with Health New Zealand linking it to recent overseas travel. The National Public Health Service (NPHS) is now supporting the individual and their household, while non-immune people exposed are being asked to stay in quarantine to help prevent the disease's spread.The individual travelled to Asia and contracted the virus there, though they were not infectious while on their flight back. Public health authorities have identified several public locations in Auckland where the individual was present during their infectious period, including Fullers360 ferries and a local supermarket.Measles, a highly contagious virus, can affect both children and adults. Health authorities are advising everyone to check their immunisation status, as the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine is the only effective protection. Those unsure of their vaccination history should contact their healthcare provider.For those who may have been exposed at these locations, it’s important to monitor for measles symptoms, which include a high fever, cough, sore red eyes, and a characteristic rash that starts on the face and spreads to the rest of the body.Locals on the Hibiscus Coast who frequent Auckland’s public transport system or local supermarkets are urged to check their immunisation status, especially if they have recently travelled or were in these high-traffic locations.Measles cases are rising globally. If you are not immune and have been in contact with the individual, please call Healthline at 0800 611 116 for advice.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

Mobile Safety Cameras Roll Out Across Auckland
Mobile Safety Cameras Roll Out Across Auckland

09 May 2025, 8:46 PM

From next Tuesday (13 May), the New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) will begin rolling out its first mobile safety camera, marking a significant step in the transition of safety camera operations from NZ Police to NZTA. This new initiative will see speeding vehicles detected not only by the traditional vans used by the police but also by camera-equipped Sports Utility Vehicles (SUVs), as well as trailers later this year.This is the first time in New Zealand’s history that safety cameras will be deployed from cars, a move that NZTA hopes will increase road safety across Auckland and beyond. The cameras will detect vehicles exceeding speed limits, helping to reduce accidents and save lives. For those of us here on the Hibiscus Coast, this will be an important step in improving safety on our busy roads—especially as many of us regularly travel to Auckland for work or leisure.Speeding vehicles will be detected by cameras operating in SUVs from next week, with trailers to be added to the fleet later this year. Photo: Supplied.Tara Macmillan, NZTA's Head of Regulatory Strategic Programmes, shared the importance of this initiative: “Speeding drivers can cause serious and irreparable harm on the roads, including deaths and serious injuries. Evidence shows that we can reduce the chance of people being killed or seriously injured in crashes if drivers travel within speed limits, and that is why we have safety cameras.”While the SUV-mounted cameras will be visible to drivers, they won’t be signposted, following research showing that unsigned mobile safety cameras are twice as effective in reducing crashes compared to those with signage. The aim is clear: reduce road fatalities and injuries by catching speeding drivers, wherever they are.NZTA's initiative will be part of a broader transition, with NZTA set to take full responsibility for safety camera operations by July 2025. At that point, NZ Police will no longer operate their mobile safety camera vans. Importantly, all funds from infringement fees will go directly into the Government Consolidated Fund, not to NZTA.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

Blues Set for Tough Test Against Drua in Suva
Blues Set for Tough Test Against Drua in Suva

09 May 2025, 4:29 AM

With Auckland's rainy weather making it the perfect evening to stay in, rugby fans are in for a thrilling match as the Auckland Blues face off against the Fijian Drua in Suva tonight.The forecast for Suva predicts overcast skies, 78% humidity, and possible thunderstorms with a warm 27°C, making for challenging conditions on the pitch. But the Blues will be ready for the heat as they aim to continue their impressive run from their recent victory over the Western Force.Head coach Vern Cotter has made only two changes to the starting XV from that dominant win. Corey Evans earns a well-deserved start at fullback, while AJ Lam replaces Stephen Perofeta on the left wing after a late change in Round 12. Perofeta misses out due to injury, with Zarn Sullivan returning to the bench, alongside Finlay Christie and Harry Plummer."We were much more consistent against the Force, and we want to carry that momentum into tonight’s game," Cotter said. "The Drua are a dangerous side, full of flair, and they will be confident at home. We need to bring high intensity from the get-go and feed off their energy."The match kicks off at 7:05 PM, and fans can expect a thrilling encounter as the Blues take on one of the competition's most dynamic teams.Blues Starting XV for Round 13:1. Joshua Fusitu’a (32)2. Ricky Riccitelli (46)3. Marcel Renata (61)4. Patrick Tuipulotu (capt) (119)5. Laghlan McWhannell (18)6. Anton Segner (33)7. Dalton Papali’i (92)8. Hoskins Sotutu (74)9. Taufa Funaki (31)10. Beauden Barrett (39)11. AJ Lam (53)12. Xavi Taele (3)13. Rieko Ioane (123)14. Cole Forbes (25)15. Corey Evans (23)Reserves:16. Kurt Eklund (70)17. Mason Tupaea (6)18. Angus Ta’avao (77)19. Josh Beehre (22)20. Adrian Choat (50)21. Finlay Christie (63)22. Harry Plummer (84)23. Zarn Sullivan (40)Enjoy the game from the comfort of your home, Coasties!Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

Lithium Ion Battery Fires
Lithium Ion Battery Fires

09 May 2025, 1:44 AM

People are being told to stop charging their e-devices once they are full as the number of fires caused by batteries rises.Data from insurer AMI said there had been a 17 percent increase year-on-year in fires started from lithium ion batteries - which are used in phones, hearing aids, power tools, computers and more.Insurance Council of New Zealand consumer affairs manager Sarah-Jane Knox told Nine to Noon the fires were often caused because people were charging incorrectly.That could mean using the wrong charger, using a device that had been physically damaged, or over charging."Really with these lithium ion batteries, once they are charged you should unplug them... they're not safe to be left on overnight for things like power tools," she said.That advice tended to be different for cars because the manufacturers' instructions allowed that.People charging their phones while they slept should take precautions, she said."You shouldn't have it on any soft furnishings like beds or couches, that sort of thing."If the batteries overheated they emitted a toxic, flammable, explosive gas, she said."It causes quite an intense fire and you can't extinguish it and, because it's so explosive, it can quickly spread," she said.The batteries were responsible for 10 percent of all total-loss house fires, Knox said.This week, Auckland recycling firm Simsmetal Industries was fined $30,000 after a fire at a scrap metal yard in 2023 caused by a lithium-ion battery.In Western Australia, an average of three house fires a week were caused by the batteries exploding, and a growing number of Australian apartment buildings were banning electric vehicles due to fire-risk concerns.Australian insurers, many of which were the same companies that operated in New Zealand, have said while there were no immediate plans to charge higher premiums for households with the batteries, or to try to restrict their use, they were deeply concerned.

iHeart Country: NZ's Newest Radio Station
iHeart Country: NZ's Newest Radio Station

08 May 2025, 9:44 PM

Well, here’s something for country music fans to get excited about—iHeart Country New Zealand has officially launched today!You can tune in on the iHeartRadio app and selected FM frequencies around the country, including 105.4 in Auckland.It’s the first new radio station to hit New Zealand in recent years, offering up a Hot Country format that mixes current hits with fresh, emerging tracks.The catch? There are no live presenters yet, so it's all pre-programmed music for now.For locals on the Hibiscus Coast, this new station is a pretty cool addition.iHeart Country offers another way to enjoy commercial-free tunes, especially with the promise of no ads for the first 10,000 songs—what a treat!It’s a perfect way to get your country fix without interruptions.If you're wondering about Gold FM, which used to occupy 105.4, it’s now moved exclusively online.This reflects the ongoing shift to streaming and on-demand music—something we’re all getting more used to these days.That said, I have to admit it’s a bit of a letdown that the iHeart Radio app doesn’t show song details, like the artist and track name.Right now, it feels more like a jukebox than a proper radio station.For those of us who like to know exactly what we're listening to, it’s a small miss.Still, if you’re after new country music, iHeart Country is a solid addition to your playlist.Whether you’re out on the road or at home, it’s nice to have another station to choose from.And while there are no live presenters yet, it’s an opportunity for more seamless, on-the-go listening.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

Content: Effective Marketing Tactics for Small Businesses
Content: Effective Marketing Tactics for Small Businesses

08 May 2025, 8:29 PM

A solid marketing strategy is crucial for small businesses seeking growth.While building brand recognition is important, the primary focus should be on acquiring new customers and retaining existing ones.These elements lay the foundation for expanding your customer base, increasing sales, and ensuring long-term success.Effective Marketing Components for GrowthAn impactful marketing plan should incorporate key components that collectively drive business growth:1. Customer Engagement and LoyaltyBuilding lasting relationships with your customers is fundamental. Encourage repeat business and foster loyalty by engaging with your audience and making them feel valued. A loyal customer base doesn’t just return; they become advocates, helping attract new prospects through referrals.2. Lead GenerationCapturing potential customers' interest is the first step toward growth. Use targeted content to draw attention, gather valuable information, and guide leads through the sales process. Offering incentives like free resources or discounts can help convert interest into action.3. Market DifferentiationTo stand out, define what makes your business unique. Whether it’s exceptional customer service, innovative products, or community involvement, highlighting your unique value proposition is key to attracting your ideal customers.4. Compelling Content and CopywritingQuality content is vital in converting readers into customers. Whether it’s a blog post, email, or social media ad, your copy should grab attention, create interest, and encourage action. Craft messages that resonate with your audience’s needs and emotions, providing a clear next step for them to take.The Power of Digital MarketingDigital marketing offers small businesses powerful tools to target specific audiences and measure performance in real-time. Unlike traditional methods, digital platforms provide the flexibility to quickly adjust campaigns, ensuring better outcomes and more efficient resource use.Managing ExpectationsMarketing results take time, especially when it comes to building brand awareness or customer engagement. Set realistic goals and understand that consistent, ongoing effort leads to meaningful growth over time.Tracking Success with KPIs and the SMART FrameworkMeasuring success is essential to ensure your marketing strategy works. Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) such as website traffic, email open rates, number of views, clicks, and conversion rates provide valuable insights. The SMART framework offers a clear structure for goal-setting:Specific – Clearly define your goal.Measurable – Track your progress.Achievable – Ensure the goal is realistic.Relevant – Align it with your overall business objectives.Time-bound – Set deadlines for results.How Business Owners Can Implement This AdviceStart Small: Focus on one or two strategies at a time—like building a customer loyalty program or refining your website’s content with strong Call-to-Action (CTAs). Don’t try to overhaul everything at once.Use Affordable Tools: Take advantage of low-cost tools such as Mailchimp for email marketing, Canva for content creation, and Google Analytics for tracking website performance.Be Consistent: Marketing success requires regular effort. Set aside time weekly or monthly to review your strategy, track progress, and make adjustments.Measure Progress: Use the SMART framework to set clear, achievable goals for each marketing activity. Track performance and adjust based on what works best.For small businesses on the Hibiscus Coast, leveraging local platforms—like the hyper-local Hibiscus Coast App—can enhance visibility and connect with a highly engaged audience.A comprehensive marketing strategy blending branding, customer engagement, lead generation, and compelling content is essential for small business growth. Digital marketing provides the tools to measure and refine efforts for ongoing improvement. By setting clear, achievable goals and staying consistent, small businesses can achieve sustainable success.Remember, as the saying goes, "You can't manage what you can't measure." Ensuring every dollar spent on advertising and marketing is trackable allows you to assess its return on investment (ROI) effectively. This approach not only validates your marketing decisions but also empowers you to optimise your strategies for better outcomes.If you're navigating the challenges of local marketing or seeking fresh ideas, feel free to reach out. Townsquare Media is always open to a conversation and happy to offer guidance where we can.

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