From Monday, December 1, Hibiscus Coast rentals shift to clearer pet consent rules and a new online bond system that trims paperwork and speeds up decisions.If your tenancy allows pets or you have written consent, you can keep one. A landlord can only refuse on reasonable grounds and may set fair conditions. Tenants cover pet damage beyond fair wear and tear. From December 1, a single pet bond of up to two weeks’ rent is allowed. Disability assist dogs sit outside these settings, so no consent or pet bond applies.Landlords must state the type and amount of each bond. When a pet leaves, the pet bond can be refunded. A new pet can mean a new pet bond. If rent rises, landlords can ask for a top-up on general and pet bonds. The Tenancy Tribunal can order either bond to meet any shortfall. If you already have a lawful pet before the change, you don’t need fresh consent and you can’t be charged a pet bond or given new conditions. Add a new pet later and consent conditions and a pet bond can apply.Also on December 1, Bond Hub goes live for lodgements and top-ups, including pet bonds. Landlords register and verify with RealMe, Microsoft or Google, then manage everything from a dashboard. Tenants complete their part via emailed links, no login needed. Refunds keep using the Bond Refund Form until the process moves into Bond Hub in 2026.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

After Saturday's rollover, Wednesday’s Powerball jackpot hits $45 million, a draw many Coasties will be eyeing.“Powerball has jackpotted to an epic $45 million on Wednesday,” said Lotto NZ Head of Corporate Communications, Will Hine. He reminded players that “big jackpots still have small odds, and one ticket is enough to be in the draw.”Hine also urged people to buy early to avoid peak demand, with stores busiest on Wednesday afternoon and MyLotto in the evening.Six Lotto First Division tickets each won $166,667 on Saturday tonight. Winners came from Auckland, Waikato, Tauranga, Tararua, Nelson and Otago. The winning tickets were sold at Whitcoulls Nelson and on MyLotto to players in the other regions.Strike Four was won by three players from Auckland and Canterbury, each taking home $66,667. The tickets were sold at Pak n Save Papakura, Fresh Choice Leeston and on MyLotto to an Auckland player.Hibiscus Coast players planning to enter Wednesday’s draw should buy early to avoid the afternoon rush, or use MyLotto outside peak evening times.The odds per line are:• Lotto First Division (6 numbers): 1 in 3,838,380.• Powerball First Division (Lotto Div 1 + Powerball): 1 in 38,383,800.• Strike Four (first four numbers in order): 1 in 2,193,360.Lotto NZ returns 100% of profits to Kiwi communities through grants programmes run by Te Puna Tahua NZ Lottery Grants Board.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

From this mornings Nine To Noon programme on RNZ: Auckland contributes 38 per cent of the country's GDP, but our biggest city is still facing headwinds.Unemployment is at a nine year high, the CBD shop vacancy rate is the highest in the country, and the government is considering measures to move rough sleepers out of the central city.On the bright side - the new Convention Centre is set to open, there are plans for more events at Eden Park and the long awaited City Rail Link is due next year.Auckland Business Chamber Chief Executive Simon Bridges has been vocal about the need for more central government fiscal stimulus to help Auckland recover from a long, deep recession.But he's cautiously optimistic that sentiment is lifting and better days are ahead.

Older Kiwis risk overpaying for broadband, a concern for Hibiscus Coast households watching costs as bills climb.An independent NZ Compare survey of people aged 50-plus found 49% are struggling or finding it harder to manage finances, and 85% have some financial concern. Nearly a third (30%) haven’t switched provider in more than five years, and one in four (25%) pay over $100 a month. Staying loyal could be costing up to $50 more each month.Confusion drives waste. Almost half (46%) don’t know what speed they’re paying for, and 13% aren’t confident it suits their needs. NZ Compare warns this leaves people open to “speed washing” and “connection confusion” between fixed wireless and fibre.Hassle and habit keep many put. Thirty-two percent think switching is too much effort, 39% say it’s easier to stay, and 36% stay from long-term loyalty.“Broadband prices have risen regularly over the last five years, yet our survey findings show older New Zealanders are among the least likely to switch providers to access a cheaper plan,” says Gavin Male, CEO of NZ Compare. “Switching and shopping around… can deliver savings of up to $400-600 a year.”The practical fix is simple. Compare plans online, match speed to actual use, and switch if a better deal appears. With more price rises likely next year, a five-minute check could put real money back in Coastie pockets.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

Healthy adults who fast stay sharp.A meta-analysis led by Dr David Moreau pooled 71 studies from 1958 to 2025, covering 3,484 people across 222 cognitive tests, and found no meaningful difference between fasted and fed adults.After about 12 hours without food the body shifts from glucose to ketones, keeping the brain fuelled.Fasting can also trigger cellular clean-up and improve insulin sensitivity.Three points matter locally.Children and teens performed worse when they skipped meals, so breakfast still matters on school days.Timing counts. Performance dipped later in the day for fasted people, so tougher tasks may land better in the morning.Context counts too. Neutral tasks held steady or improved slightly, but food cues made hungry minds more distractible.David Moreau, Associate Professor of Psychology - University of Auckland.Coasties can try time-restricted eating with confidence if they’re healthy adults, plan key work earlier, and keep snack temptations out of sight.Those with medical conditions should seek advice first, and anyone working late or around food may find fasting harder to sustain.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

October’s nationwide surge in new property listings points to more choice and momentum for Hibiscus Coast buyers and sellers as summer nears. Trade Me says new listings were up 29 per cent from September and 3 per cent year-on-year, the highest since late 2021, while buyer demand rose 11 per cent month-on-month and more than 18 per cent on October 2024.“It’s awesome to see the property market firing on all cylinders in October, proving that the spring selling season is well and truly underway,” says Trade Me Property Customer Director Gavin Lloyd. “Buyers appear to be feeling the confidence that comes with more choice too as we’ve seen strong demand both compared to September and year-on-year.”Supply kept building into spring, with listings up 5.9 per cent year-on-year and close to 19 per cent higher than August. Property searches jumped more than 24 per cent compared with September 2024.Asking prices lifted. The national average in October was $883,200, up 6 per cent, or nearly $48,000, from September, and flat year-on-year. Twelve of 15 regions rose month-on-month, with Southland down 2 per cent, the West Coast down 1 per cent, and Taranaki unchanged. Biggest movers were Gisborne up 17 per cent, Hawke’s Bay up 13 per cent, Marlborough up 13 per cent, Northland up 11 per cent, and Bay of Plenty up 10 per cent.Homes also moved faster. Median days onsite fell from 65 in September to 57 in October, the lowest since March, a trend Coast sellers will watch closely.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

At a University of Auckland forum on Thursday, October 31, experts set a new course for housing reform to deliver lasting, fair homes.Associate Professor William Cheung said the next phase must translate upzoning into long-term, equitable housing.“The forum’s discussions showed that effective housing systems are those that integrate behavioural insight, institutional stability, and public trust.” He called for policy frameworks that learn and adapt across political cycles.Evidence from Auckland’s Unitary Plan featured strongly. Associate Professor William Cheung.Associate Professor Ryan Greenaway-McGrevy said city-wide reform and state delivery reinforced each other, with upzoning lifting supply and a threefold rise in state-built dwellings. He noted the share of government-built homes rose from 3.1 percent pre-reform to 9.9 percent in the six years after.Dr Elham Bahmanteymouri cautioned that platforms like Airbnb can soak up new supply in high-amenity areas, urging data transparency and localised rules. Auckland Council chief economist Gary Blick said widespread upzoning has delivered more homes, more townhouses and apartments, and more building closer to jobs and rapid transit. Research he cited estimates 21,800 additional homes and a lift in the share of new homes within 14 kilometres of the city centre from 46 percent to 51 percent.International speakers added context. Professor Chris Leishman warned against ignoring demand factors, Professor Hyojung Lee highlighted potential inequality effects, and Professor Kelvin Wong stressed liveability and infrastructure limits in very dense cities.Know 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.Gatmans Closes After Liquidation, Coasties Lose StapleRead more →If Auckland Mayor Quits, Who Steps In?Read more →Have Your Say: Faster NX2 Via PenlinkRead more →Late-Night Crime Spurs Orewa Community ActionRead more →Coasties Urged To Report Suspected HornetsRead more →Your Coast. Your news. Your app.Download the Hibiscus Coast App for instant local updates. Anytime, anywhere.

Beauty salons and nail parlours are in the sights of immigration staff and labour inspectors after fears some are linked to organised crime and money laundering operations.Compliance teams from the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment have launched a crackdown on rogue employment practices across much of the North Island.Seventeen site visits have already taken place following a rise in complaints about beauty-sector businesses.The unannounced visits are targeting nail salons, massage parlours and beauticians and will continue over the coming months.The Labour Inspectorate said it is also gathering intelligence from the operation to inform future work in the sector.Central region compliance manager, Margaret Meafua, said Operation Antic aimed to disrupt organised crime and prevent harm."I would say the beauty sector has been prioritised due to a growing number of complaints and referrals received by the Labour Inspectorate in recent years, particularly what we're seeing in the Waikato and Wellington regions," she said."Particularly around employment entitlements, getting the minimum wage, deductions, record keeping, which will form part of what we look at when we do go out on our visits."Intelligence has suggested it could be linked to other types of non-compliance, including organised crime, money laundering, and trafficking. But at the moment, that's what we're trying to establish through this initiative."This is about ensuring fair treatment for workers and a level playing field for businesses doing the right thing, she said.Potential consequences for companies found in breach include infringement and improvement notices, enforceable undertakings, and penalties through the Employment Relations Authority.Staff would also provide education and support to help businesses understand their obligations.Meafua said the MBIE teams were assessing the data collected during the Wellington visits and at this stage cannot provide details of issues of concern identified."Our teams will have a clearer picture of areas where non-compliance most needs to be addressed once this data has been processed and analysed."

Hibiscus Coast drivers heading north next week face full SH1 closures over the Brynderwyn Hills for resurfacing across two 4-day super weekends, keeping the route in top shape before summer.The highway shuts from 12:01am Thursday, November 13 to 11:59pm Sunday, November 16, then again from 12:01am Thursday, November 20 to 11:59pm Sunday, November 23.It reopens in both directions for three days between closures, from Monday, November 17 to Wednesday, November 19.Light vehicles can detour via Mangawhai using Cove Road between Kaiwaka and Waipū.Trucks and trucks with trailers up to 50MAX tonnes can use Paparoa Oakleigh Road between Brynderwyn and Oakleigh.The preferred heavy-vehicle route is via SH12 and SH14 through Dargaville, which HPMVs must use.The car detour adds about 20 minutes.Night works to prepare the road run 8:00pm Wednesday, November 5 to 5:00am Thursday, November 6, with a contingency of 8:00pm Sunday, November 9 to 5:00am Monday, November 10 if needed.The closure area runs from the SH1/SH12 intersection on the south side to the bottom of the hill on the north side near Waipū Gorge Road, with clear detour signage in place.“Strong, reliable roading links with Auckland and the rest of the country are essential for our region’s growth,” says Paul Linton of Northland Inc.NZTA will run crews 24/4 during closures to complete full-width asphalt, reinstate markings and passing lanes, and return the route to 80km/h.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

Auckland Airport will open a full-format Victoria’s Secret next year.The airside store in the international terminal will be New Zealand’s only Victoria’s Secret, with best-selling bras, signature fragrances, body care, underwear, sleepwear, and apparel.It’s the first step in a wider refresh of Auckland Duty Free, with redesigned spaces, more brands, tasting and testing zones, and new runway views staged through 2026.Preparation starts next month and main works begin in January 2026, so travellers may see some stores move while refits happen.For Hibiscus Coast locals flying through AKL, this means more choice for last-minute gifts and travel treats, alongside recent arrivals like Boh Runga Jewellery, Aotea, and UGG Express, plus an upgraded food court with extra seating and chargers.Bluebells Cakery has also opened at the domestic terminal.Coasties can expect a more modern, browse-worthy experience before they fly, with Auckland Airport hinting at more dining and dwell upgrades to come.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

From 22 May 2025, NZ businesses can claim an extra 20% deduction in year one when they buy a new depreciable asset (often called the “Investment Boost”).You still depreciate the remaining 80% at the normal IRD rate.It’s not free money—it simply brings forward a slice of future deductions to help cash flow now, with a potential clawback later if you sell above book value.What qualifies (in plain English): New business assets like machinery, tools, equipment, and many fit-outs.Not second-hand purchases.Commercial buildings can qualify for the 20% upfront deduction even though they don’t usually depreciate.Quick example: Buy a new machine for $100,000.In year one you can deduct $20,000 immediately.The remaining $80,000 is depreciated as usual over time.At a 28% tax rate, that upfront 20% could trim this year’s tax by $5,600—but remember, if you later sell above its book value, some or all of that benefit may be taxed back as depreciation recovery.Tips to get it right: Keep invoices and an asset register; confirm the asset is new and used for business; factor the bigger year‑one deduction into provisional tax planning; and before signing, check the sale and purchase terms (including any chattels values) so tax treatment matches reality.This is general advice only so always consult a Chartered Accountant to get advice on your situation.At David Hooper Chartered Accountants, we help local businesses make smart financial decisions. Get in touch today at [email protected] or call us on 09 421 1635.

Biosecurity New Zealand is asking Aucklanders on the North Shore to stay alert for yellow-legged hornets, a first-time find in New Zealand that matters because these predators threaten honeybee and wild bee populations.“We’ve had a fantastic response so far from the public to our request for help with surveillance. To date, we’ve received more than 1,000 notifications via email and phone with no new confirmed finds since the weekend,” says Mike Inglis, North commissioner, Biosecurity New Zealand.Since Friday, October 17, four queen hornets have been confirmed and their nests safely removed.Three were detected in Glenfield and one in Birkdale, about 1.3 km from the initial detection in Glenfield.To support surveillance, 120 traps are being laid in targeted areas where females have been found.“This is the first time we’ve found yellow-legged hornets in New Zealand. We responded quickly to this threat, but we continue to need the public’s help to eliminate any further risk,” Mr Inglis says.He noted other countries manage the pest, but New Zealand aims to keep it out.Members of the public are asked to report suspected hornets or nests only if they have a specimen, a clear photo, or a possible nest location.Reports can be made at report.mpi.govt.nz or by calling 0800 809 966. Learn more here.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

The Orewa Beach Business Association is bringing Police, Compliance, and social support agencies together with the business community after a run of 2025 incidents.The aim is clear.Get a shared picture of current policing in Orewa, understand how agencies are working together, and find simple ways to stay better connected with shop owners.Concern has grown over rising property offences, several suspicious fires, and deliberate arson affecting cafés.Data shows most burglaries and thefts in Auckland suburbs, including Orewa, happen late at night or early morning, usually 10 pm to 4 am, and again from 3 pm to 6 pm, with weekends busier.Coasties can expect a friendly, practical chat focused on what’s working, what needs fixing, and how to keep staff and shopfronts safe.This meeting is a practical step to get everyone at the same table.The wider community are urged to report any suspicious behaviour in Orewa.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

Making plans? Here’s what’s coming up around the Hibiscus Coast. From live music and local markets to family fun and outdoor adventures.DJ music Party featuring DJ Countess CaliFri 7 NovClick here for more detailsPre-Loved Fashion & Thrift MarketSat 8 NovClick here for more detailsThe Retro Event Volume 6Sat 8 NovClick here for more detailsFind more things to do anytime in the Hibiscus Coast App, your local hub for events, food, and fun.Have an event coming up? List it free today.

The Blues named a 38-player squad for the 2026 Super Rugby Pacific season, blending returning stars with first-year signings and a strong homegrown core.Head coach Vern Cotter confirmed hooker Bradley Slater and prop Flyn Yates bolster the front row, with Malachi Wrampling and Terrell Peita adding energy to the loose forwards.The pack is anchored by Patrick Tuipulotu, Sam Darry, Dalton Papali’i, Ofa Tu‘ungafasi, Hoskins Sotutu and 2025 Blues Player of the Year Joshua Fusitu’a.Darry (shoulder) and Tu‘ungafasi (neck) are set for long-awaited returns after missing most of last season.In the backs, five newcomers feature.Midfielder Pita Ahki returns from Toulouse, North Harbour fullback Kade Banks is back after a year away, and youngsters Rico Simpson, James Cameron and Cody Vai sign on.“All Blacks first-five Beauden Barrett returns to steer a backline with pace, creativity and experience,” Cotter said.“We’ve retained the core of our forwards unit while adding some exciting young players who will bring real energy and hunger to the group. The mix of talent gives us flexibility in how we want to play.”Cotter said more than two-thirds of the squad developed within the region, reinforcing continuity and competition for places ahead of the new campaign.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

New Zealand becomes the 49th Michelin Guide destination in mid-2026, with Auckland included, lifting jobs and visitor spend.Tourism and Hospitality Minister Louise Upston said inspectors are already dining anonymously, with first selections and potential star ratings due next year.“Receiving selection into the Michelin Guide is a prestigious accolade, with its strong international following,” Louise Upston said.Tourism New Zealand estimates Michelin’s arrival could bring up to 36,000 extra international visitors, supported by research showing “trying local cuisine” is the top interest for people considering a holiday here.The inaugural edition will cover four destinations: Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, and Queenstown.Photo: Michelin Guides. Upston said the announcement follows a recommendation from the hospitality sector’s 2024 summit and signals government support for growth.She added that Michelin sees New Zealand as “an exciting gastronomic destination, with exceptional restaurants.”For the Hibiscus Coast, Auckland’s inclusion puts world-class dining within easy reach, while extra visitor spending is expected to support small businesses and hospitality jobs across the region.Read more about the History of the Michelin Guide here.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

Coasties, here’s what the next four days have in store:Friday, 7/11Cloud clears to fine with a nor’easter easingHigh: 23Low: 16Saturday, 8/11Partly cloudy with a shower risk and a developing nor’easterHigh: 23Low: 17Sunday, 9/11Mostly cloudy with a few showers, easterly turning northerlyHigh: 23Low: 16Monday, 10/11Occasional rain with northerlies turning westerlyHigh: 23Low: 16See the full Weather & Travel section in the Hibiscus Coast App for:🌊 Tide times🌬️ Wind conditions🌊 Wave updates🌞 UV levels🏖️ Safe swimming spots...and plenty more.The Hibiscus Coast App has everything you need, accessible at any time and from any location.

Urgent recall for People4ocean SPF 50+ Mineral Bioactive Shield Lightly Tinted Cream.MBIE says preliminary testing shows the product’s SPF is unlikely to match the label, increasing sunburn risk and reducing long-term protection against skin cancer.If you’ve got any batch, don’t use it.Return it to the place of purchase for a refund or contact customer service to arrange a return and refund.Anyone worried about use should speak to their doctor.The product was sold from February 2024 to September 2025 via Holistic Aesthetics and Advanced Cosmeceuticals.People4ocean confirms a low SPF rating raises sunburn risk and says customers can return affected product for a refund.Coasties can expect stores to handle returns promptly, though keep proof of purchase if you have it.Check bathroom cabinets, let friends know, and replace with a trusted SPF product that meets your needs.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.