Electronic card transactions on the Hibiscus Coast and across New Zealand increased in December 2024, indicating a boost in consumer spending and economic activity.Locals made the most of the holiday season, with spending in retail industries rising by 2.0 percent ($130 million) compared to November 2024.Core retail industries also saw a 1.8 percent ($103 million) increase.Breaking it down by category, Coasties spent more on:Durables, up $57 million (3.7 percent)Consumables, up $36 million (1.4 percent)Fuel, up $19 million (3.8 percent)Hospitality, up $12 million (1.0 percent)Apparel, up $10 million (3.1 percent)In contrast, spending on motor vehicles (excluding fuel) decreased by $2.4 million (1.3 percent).The total value of electronic card spending, including non-retail categories, increased by $139 million (1.5 percent) from November 2024.Cardholders made 183 million transactions across all industries in December 2024, with an average value of $58 per transaction.For the December 2024 quarter, retail electronic card transactions increased by $203 million (1.1 percent) compared to the September 2024 quarter.Have a News story to share?Contact [email protected]

New Zealand’s domestic inflation has eased, raising expectations for mortgage rate reductions and economic relief for households, according to Finance Minister Nicola Willis.Stats NZ reported today that the consumer price index (CPI) rose 2.2% in the year to December 2024, marking the second consecutive quarter within the Reserve Bank’s target range of 1-3%.The domestic inflation component—non-tradables—dropped from 4.9% in September to 4.5% in December, a positive sign for borrowers and businesses.Willis welcomed the trend, stating, “Decisions about the Official Cash Rate are a matter for the Reserve Bank, but the decline in domestic inflation is good news for people with mortgages. Together with other recent economic data showing spare capacity in the economy, it suggests there is scope for further rate reductions in the coming months.”The easing inflation follows a Reserve Bank report showing that the average residential mortgage interest rate fell in November for the first time since September 2021.Willis credited government measures to control public spending for helping ease inflationary pressures.“Lower inflation and interest rates set the foundations for economic growth, investment, jobs, and higher incomes. The benefits of restoring discipline to public spending are starting to flow through to people’s bank accounts,” she said.Key Factors Influencing InflationStats NZ data shows that while inflation remains a concern, price growth has slowed significantly from its June 2022 peak of 7.3%.Rent prices remain the biggest contributor to annual inflation, increasing 4.2%, with local authority rates and payments also climbing 12.2%.Tobacco and cigarettes rose 7.6% due to the annual excise tax increase on 1 January 2024, while international airfares jumped 6.6% in the December quarter, significantly impacting the 0.5% quarterly CPI rise.However, some falling prices helped offset these increases.Petrol prices dropped 9.2% over the year, aided by the removal of Auckland’s regional fuel tax in June 2024.Vegetable prices also declined 14.6%, with kūmara, potatoes, and onions seeing the largest reductions.“If petrol was excluded, the CPI would have increased 2.7% in the 12 months to December 2024,” said Stats NZ prices and deflators spokesperson Nicola Growden.Impact on CoastiesFor Hibiscus Coast residents, lower inflation may ease financial strain, particularly for mortgage holders.Falling interest rates could reduce cost-of-living pressures and provide more financial stability for households.Council rates and rental costs remain significant factors in household budgets, and while inflation is easing, many residents may still feel financial pressure from persistent housing and utility costs.What’s Next?With inflation staying within the Reserve Bank’s target for a second straight quarter, attention now shifts to potential interest rate cuts.While the Reserve Bank remains cautious, the slowing of domestic inflation suggests monetary policy easing could be on the horizon.For now, we will be watching closely to see if lower inflation translates into meaningful reductions in everyday costs.Have a News story to share?Contact [email protected]

Coasties, the latest SEEK NZ Employment Report shows a slight drop in nationwide job advertisements, offering insights into evolving hiring patterns.Job ads declined 2% in December compared to November and were down 22% from December 2023, according to the report.Rob Clark, SEEK NZ Country Manager, said, “Job ads declined slightly month-on-month following a small rise in November.Overall, the trend in 2024 was one of decline, with ads down 22% compared to December 2023.”He also highlighted some notable industry performance.“Some industries ended the year with more opportunities, including Banking & Financial Services and Insurance & Superannuation, thanks to growth spurts at the end of the year,” said Clark.Meanwhile, Trades & Services, Manufacturing, Transport & Logistics, and Information & Communication Technology experienced a rise in demand in December.At the regional level, Canterbury, Auckland and Wellington recorded declines of 5%, 4% and 3% respectively, after showing growth in November.In contrast, Waikato rose by 2% and Otago by 5% month-on-month.Otago’s overall ad volumes for 2024 are down just 8%, making it the least-impacted of the larger regions.Auckland and Wellington have each fallen over 20% during the same period, while Taranaki’s job ad volumes have shown no change year-on-year.Applications per job ad dipped 2% from November, only the second monthly decline in 2024, but rose 32% compared to December 2023.“Hiring and applications do tend to pick up in the early months of a new year, as hirers and candidates start thinking about the future – so, January and February will be ones to watch,” added Clark.While most industries recorded a decline in December job ads, Healthcare & Medical roles dropped 6% for the month and 15% for the quarter.Retail & Consumer Products saw a quarterly decline of 13%.Sectors showing increased advertising since December 2023 include Banking & Financial Services at 29% and Insurance & Superannuation at 12%.Advertising, Arts & Media led the way in applications per job ad, rising 71% year-on-year, followed by significant increases in Retail & Consumer Products, Administration & Office Support, and Construction.Have a News story to share?Contact [email protected]

Locals on the Hibiscus Coast may be pleased to learn that one of Auckland’s most storied hospitality venues, the Puhoi Hotel, has secured $50,000 from Auckland Council’s Regional Historic Heritage Grant.First established in 1876 by Bohemian settler John Schollum, the venue once offered lodging for patrons and their horses, before the current structure was built in 1901.It now stands as a local landmark known for its distinctive height and historic appeal.Auckland Council’s Community Committee chair, Councillor Angela Dalton, emphasises the importance of these allocations.“It’s essential that historic heritage places are preserved so they can be enjoyed by Aucklanders now, and for years to come,” she says.“These taonga give a window into the past of Tāmaki Makaurau and preserving them is crucial for the region’s identity. The Regional Historic Heritage Grant enables these historically significant taonga to be improved and future-proofed.”The funding will help repair the hotel’s verandah structure and cover exterior and roof repainting.Owner Bernie McCallion is grateful for the support.“I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to Auckland Council for approving our grant application.This funding will make a significant difference in enabling us to bring The Puhoi Pub, Hotel and Stables back to life.”The Puhoi Hotel is one of 21 applicants from across the region that received a share of $530,000 in grants, all aimed at safeguarding and celebrating Auckland’s historic heritage.Have a News story to share?Contact [email protected]

University of Auckland experts Dr Thomas Dowling and Te Kahuratai Moko-Painting are helping lead the charge for a global effort to prevent pollution in space. Their work highlights the growing problem of space debris and the urgent need for international agreements to protect Earth’s orbit.The number of satellites and other objects in space is increasing rapidly, and experts warn this could cause serious issues if not managed carefully. Dr Dowling and Moko-Painting have shared their concerns as part of a global push to keep space safe and sustainable for the future.The United States and China are major players in this, launching thousands of satellites into space every year. With over 95 countries and companies now sending objects into orbit, the experts stress that global cooperation is needed to manage this shared space.This issue is not unlike the pollution in our oceans, which were once seen as endless resources. Just as the oceans have been overused, experts warn that space could face similar problems if we don't take care of it.The Pacific Ocean, in particular, is becoming a dumping ground for outdated spacecraft. Chemicals from old satellites are leaking into the water, raising concerns for the environment. While the effects on the ocean are still being studied, the risks are clear.Space is infinite, but the useful orbital ‘shell’ of our planet is limited.According to the European Space Agency, more than 14,700 satellites have been launched since 1957, and about 9,780 are still in orbit. The rise of large satellite networks, like SpaceX’s Starlink, which plans to launch up to 42,000 satellites, is making things even more crowded.Most satellites only last about five years, and when they are no longer needed, they burn up as they fall back into Earth’s atmosphere. But this creates more pollution, releasing particles into the air.In 1978, NASA scientists warned that if too many objects collide in space, it could lead to a chain reaction where debris causes even more debris, making Earth’s orbit unusable.There have been some efforts to reduce space pollution, like the US Artemis Accords and the European Space Agency’s Zero Debris Charter. However, experts agree that a stronger, worldwide agreement is needed. Dr Dowling and Moko-Painting suggest creating a new global goal, similar to the one protecting the oceans, to keep space clean and safe for everyone.Their research, published in One Earth journal, calls for immediate action to protect space from becoming another polluted environment, urging governments and companies to step up and work together to keep our skies clear for future generations.Have a News story to share?Contact [email protected]

A 24-year-old United States national has been remanded in custody after Customs officers allegedly discovered an estimated 31 kilograms of methamphetamine in her luggage at Auckland International Airport last weekend.She appeared in the Manukau District Court yesterday, facing charges of importation and possession for supply of a Class A controlled drug, and is scheduled to reappear in February.According to Customs, the woman arrived on a flight from San Francisco on 18 January 2025. During questioning, a search revealed the methamphetamine in vacuum-sealed plastic packages inside wet towels, concealed among new clothing in two suitcases. Officials estimate the drugs have a potential street value of up to NZD$11 million and could amount to around 1.6 million individual doses. They believe this seizure may have prevented up to NZD$33 million in social harm and cost to New Zealand.Customs Manager Auckland Airport, Paul Williams, describes the discovery as “a significant amount for a passenger to attempt to bring into the country.” He says, “This attempt to get a significant amount of methamphetamine into New Zealand is another classic example of how Customs’ strong international networks and our dedicated frontline teams work together to disrupt and intercept.”“New Zealand is being targeted by transnational syndicates, with multiple couriers having been intercepted in 2025 already.I am pleased that Customs has chalked up another win again to prevent more harm in our communities,” adds Paul.Anyone with information or suspicions about potential drug smuggling is encouraged to contact Customs confidentially on 0800 WE PROTECT (0800 937 768) or Crime Stoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.Have a News story to share?Contact [email protected]

Locals on the Hibiscus Coast and North Shore are invited to take part in shaping the future of North Harbour Stadium and Domain Precinct, as an open expression of interest (EOI) process begins today.The EOI invites submissions from parties or organisations interested in assuming some or all operational responsibilities for the stadium and precinct from mid-2025.Currently operated by Auckland Council-controlled organisation Tātaki Auckland Unlimited (TAU), the process aims to explore opportunities for new operators who can drive positive outcomes for the facility, its community, and its users.Anna Atkinson, Chairperson of the Upper Harbour Local Board, described the development as “an exciting step for the stadium’s future.”She added that a working group comprising local and expert stakeholders has been actively involved in the process.“Whether it’s through increased use of the stadium or engagement with the local community, we are hopeful this EOI is the start of positive change at North Harbour Stadium,” said Atkinson.Chairperson of the Hibiscus and Bays Local Board, Alexis Poppelbaum, highlighted the importance of the stadium to the region.“We want North Harbour Stadium to thrive for the North Shore and the whole of Auckland. Successful parties will need to demonstrate plans to improve the venue’s financial performance while fostering connections with the local community and existing users,” said Poppelbaum.L-R: Nick Hill (Chief Executive Tataki Auckland Unlimited), Gary Brown (Upper Harbour and Bays Local Board Deputy Chair), Anna Atkinson (Upper Harbour Local Board Chair), Alexis Poppelbaum (Hibiscus and Bays Local Board Chair) and Uzra Casuri Balouch (Upper Harbour Local Board Deputy Chair).TAU Chief Executive Nick Hill emphasised the venue’s role as one of the busiest in the region, hosting Super Rugby’s Moana Pasifika, NPC’s North Harbour Rugby, and A-League football’s Auckland FC.Hill also stressed the potential for expanding the stadium’s use for ticketed events.Submissions meeting the pre-conditions of the EOI will be reviewed by an evaluation panel of local board members, TAU representatives, and independent experts.If a preferred proposal is identified, the TAU Board will consider entering negotiations, with contracts expected to be in place by mid-year.Hill assured locals that TAU would continue managing the stadium in the interim, delivering events like last year’s All Whites fixture, upcoming Super Rugby matches, and the Black Ferns test in May.This EOI marks the first stage of a larger process, focusing on the short-term operational management of the stadium.Stage two will involve determining the long-term vision, governance, and potential improvements for the precinct.Have a News story to share?Contact [email protected]

Every Tuesday, we spotlight a few standout job openings in our community.Check out this week’s picks, and be sure to share with anyone who might be looking!Silverdale Rugby ClubPosition: Cook / Chef / Kitchen ManagerLocation: Silverdale (On-Site)Highlights:Part-time role (Thu/Fri evenings, Sat 12:30–7:00 PM in season).Manage the kitchen from menu to service, feeding members and supporters.View full listing & applyThe Hibiscus Coast AppPosition: Local Business Advertising ConsultantLocation: Remote (Hibiscus Coast area essential)Highlights:Flexible part-time schedule; work from home.Make a local impact helping small businesses thrive.View full listing & applyThe Warehouse Position: Apparel Team MemberLocation: Silverdale (On-Site)Highlights:Customer-facing role creating displays and assisting shoppers.Scheduled hours: Thursday & Saturday, 10 AM–6:30 PM.View full listing & applyMetlifecarePosition: Receptionist (Part Time)Location: Red Beach (On-Site)Highlights:Be the first point of contact for staff, residents, and visitors.Provide admin support to the Nurse Manager and broader team in a beautiful village setting.View full listing & applyCareer Tip of the weekMake sure your LinkedIn profile photo is up to date. Profiles with a clear headshot typically receive more connection requests!Looking for more opportunities? Browse all local job listings on our jobs page.That’s it for this week’s local job roundup. Keep an eye out next Tuesday for more great opportunities, and don’t forget to share with friends and neighbours who might be interested!Have a job to post? Submit your listing here.

Coasties, Auckland Council is inviting feedback on proposed changes to the region's dog rules, with a consultation period now underway until Sunday 23 February.This review aims to ensure a fair balance between dog-friendly spaces and areas where dogs are restricted.The proposed changes form part of the regular review of Auckland’s Dog Management Bylaw and local dog access rules, which cover dog access in 14 regional parks and 64 local parks and beaches.Councillor Josephine Bartley, chair of Auckland Council's Regulatory and Safety Committee, emphasised the importance of maintaining an equitable environment for all who use public spaces.“We are so lucky to have a variety of public spaces to share in Tāmaki Makaurau. It’s important we maintain a balance that respects everybody’s right to use them," she said. "The changes aim to ensure that there are spaces for dogs and, for those who prefer not to be around them, areas where they can enjoy the outdoors too. This will also help protect vulnerable wildlife, like endangered shorebirds and kauri trees in specific areas.”A key aspect of the proposal is a limit on the number of dogs that can be walked at once.Under the new rules, people will be allowed to walk a maximum of six dogs at a time, with no more than three off-leash.The proposed changes also aim to increase the number of off-leash areas while keeping dogs away from places with vulnerable wildlife, as well as creating some dog-free areas for the public to enjoy.“Ultimately, everyone should feel safe and welcome to visit Auckland’s parks, beaches, and public spaces,” Bartley added.“I strongly encourage you to have your say online or at one of the many engagement events being held across the region.”Aucklanders' input has already shaped these proposals, with data from complaints, animal management service requests, and dog registrations used to guide the review.Issues such as dogs not being kept on-leash in designated areas, as well as the impact of multiple dogs being walked together, have been central to the review process.The consultation also includes a review of dog access rules at specific Hibiscus Coast parks and beaches, including popular locations such as Shakespear, Wenderholm, Big Manly Beach, and Tindalls Beach.The full list of proposed changes and consultation details can be found on the AKHaveYourSay website, where the public can participate online or attend one of the 23 engagement events held across Auckland.The consultation period is open until 11.59 pm on Sunday 23 February.Have a News story to share?Contact [email protected]

A Kiwi artisan sauce and seasoning maker is set to expand into the $1.8 billion US market following a surge in demand, after being named the sixth-best meat rub in the world at the American Royal World Series of Barbecue, the largest BBQ competition of its kind.The Four Saucemen, founded by Adam and Sarah Winter in 2019, initially operated from their home kitchen and garage with a startup investment of $10,000.The business has since grown significantly, selling over 120,000 units of meat sauces, rubs, and seasonings annually.Their products are now sold in New Zealand, Australia, and through online platforms such as Amazon.The Manuka Hot Honey Rub was a standout at the annual event in Kansas City, Missouri, beating out over 900 entries to secure its top spot.The recognition has sparked increased interest, prompting The Four Saucemen to airfreight a shipment ten times larger than previous orders to meet the post-competition demand.“We’ve received strong feedback from the US market, which suggests that our products are a good match for American consumers,” said Adam Winter.“The rub has a five-star rating on Amazon, including a review from a judge at the competition who sought it out after trying it during the event.”The company’s US expansion will begin with a larger shipment to Amazon and potentially further partnerships with major US suppliers.Despite the exciting growth prospects, Winter remains cautious about the challenges of entering the US market.“We’re focused on a staged approach, as we want to ensure we do it right,” he said.In addition to the US expansion, The Four Saucemen’s growth in New Zealand and Australia has been equally impressive.In Australia, the company has partnered with Barbecues Galore, adding 20 new retail accounts within the first two weeks of working with a new distributor.Plans are in place to increase their reach in the Australian market with a target of 500 new retail outlets over the next five years.The company’s origins date back to a local barbecue competition, where Adam and three friends entered for fun, not knowing that it would lead to a thriving business.“We realised there was a gap in the market for a gourmet range of meat rubs, so we created our own,” Winter explained.Now generating over $1 million in annual revenue, The Four Saucemen’s journey is a testament to the power of passion and innovation, and the growing appeal of premium Kiwi-made products.Have a News story to share?Contact [email protected]

A Heavy Rain Watch has been issued for Northland, Auckland and the Coromandel, with MetService warning of strengthening easterly winds, heavy rain and potential thunderstorms from this evening into Tuesday.Locals can expect the heaviest rain in northern and eastern Northland, with rainfall totals of 90-120mm possible overnight and into Tuesday. Intense bursts of rain and thunderstorms are also forecast.Auckland can expect rain to spread over the area during Tuesday, accompanied by strong easterly winds. Gusts may reach severe gale force in exposed parts of the region."It's been a dry but cool start to 2025, so these Heavy Rain Warnings for Northland and the Coromandel are the first of the year," says MetService Meteorologist John Law. "The potential for intense downpours and thunderstorms within the broader rain band means some areas, especially in Northland, could experience significant rainfall in a short period."The low pressure system will also bring gusty easterly winds to Northland and Auckland, with gusts around 100 km/h in exposed locations."The strongest winds and wettest weather will affect areas exposed to the east," Law adds. "For Auckland, the heaviest rain is likely to fall north of Orewa, while the strongest winds will impact the eastern coast."Have a News story to share?Contact [email protected]

The Hibiscus Coast community can expect a renewed focus on economic growth, health, and regional development as Prime Minister Christopher Luxon announces a reshuffled ministerial team for 2025.In a statement, Mr Luxon highlighted key changes aimed at driving economic recovery, enhancing public services, and creating more opportunities for New Zealand businesses.Nicola Willis, retaining her role as Minister of Finance, will now also serve as Minister for Economic Growth, a newly defined position.Her responsibilities will include leading initiatives to support business expansion, talent development, and investment attraction.Mr Luxon commended her efforts in 2024, stating, “In 2025, I’m confident she will bring that same focus and dedication to the task of unleashing Kiwi businesses to grow at pace.”Health services also remain a priority, with Simeon Brown appointed as Minister of Health.This shift aims to address public concerns over healthcare accessibility and build on reforms initiated by his predecessor, Dr Shane Reti.Mr Luxon stated, “I have heard Kiwis’ concerns that they expect to see even more progress – ensuring they can access the care they need when they need it.”Dr Reti, in turn, will now oversee the universities and science sectors, which are expected to play a significant role in the government’s growth strategy.Other appointments include Chris Bishop as Minister of Transport, Louise Upston taking on Tourism and Hospitality, and Simon Watts leading the Energy and Local Government portfolios.Each is tasked with implementing reforms tied to infrastructure development, regional employment, and sustainable energy growth.Mr Luxon also announced the introduction of James Meager as a Minister outside Cabinet.His portfolio includes Hunting and Fishing, Youth, and a new role as Minister for the South Island.The announcement outlines the government’s planned focus on fostering economic opportunities alongside addressing key areas such as health and education.Have a News story to share?Contact [email protected]

Police are searching for those responsible for an armed robbery at an Auckland on Sunday night.Police were called just after 9.30pm to Tokyo Bay on The Strand in Takapuna, North Shore after two people entered, armed with weapons and threatened staff.No injuries were reported.Police said the weapons were not guns.The duo stole a number of items, fleeing the scene in a vehicle before police arrived.Posting on social media, the restaurant said it would be closed on Monday to assess the damage and recoup."We thank you for understanding during this difficult time," it said.Police urged members of the public with information to come forward - contact police online or via the 105 phone service and quote job number P061336625.Information could also be provided anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.

Hibiscus Coast locals are among thousands of Kiwis benefiting from the Government’s FamilyBoost scheme, with nearly 22,000 claims paid in the first 15 days of January, according to Finance Minister Nicola Willis.The second quarter of the scheme opened for applications on 1 January, and by 15 January, 21,936 claims had been processed.Since the programme’s inception, more than $24 million has been paid out, supporting almost 65,000 claims across New Zealand.“I’m delighted people have made claiming FamilyBoost a priority on their New Year to-do list,” said Ms Willis.“I know when it comes to the cost of living, every bit helps, and it’s great to see Kiwi families taking up FamilyBoost.”FamilyBoost was introduced as part of the Government’s tax relief plan to assist low- and middle-income households with the rising costs of early childhood education.Families earning up to $45,000 per quarter (equivalent to $180,000 per year) are eligible to claim 25 per cent of weekly childcare fees, capped at $975 every three months.Ms Willis encouraged all eligible families to take advantage of the support.“The summer break, spent with friends and family, often reminds us of what matters most, and that’s what FamilyBoost is designed to do – ease the pressure so Kiwis focus on what’s important, and live better lives.”Applications for the scheme can be submitted online via Inland Revenue’s myIR system, where families can also check their eligibility.For more information, visit www.ird.govt.nz/familyboostHave a News story to share?Contact [email protected]

Food prices rose an annual 1.5 percent in December with higher prices for grocery food and restaurant meals, as well as ready-to-eat food.Stats NZ says grocery prices rose 2.7 percent with higher prices for butter, standard 2 litre milk bottles and olive oil.The price for a 500 gram block of butter rose about 50 percent to an average price of $6.66, compared with $4.48 the year earlier.Stats spokesperson Nicola Growden said food price increases were partly offset by cheaper fruit and vegetables, down an annual 8 percent."Fruit and vegetable prices were driven by lower prices for kūmara, potatoes, and onions," she said."Kūmara prices are around 60 percent lower in December 2024 than they were a year ago. In comparison, kūmara prices rose almost 260 percent in the year ended December 2023."Restaurant meals and ready to eat foods rose 3.1 percent.Growden said the increase in restaurant meals and ready-to-eat food was due to higher prices for lunch/brunch, hamburgers and evening restaurant meals.Woolworth's online shopping site lists 500g Anchor butter for sale at $8.25, 500g Alpine butter at $8.99 and Mainland 500g for $9.50. It also lists its Woolworths slated butter at $6.49.Pak'n Save has Pams 500g butter for $6.29 and an Anchor 500g block at $8.69..New World's online shopping lists Pam 500g butter at $6.49 and Anchor 500g at $9.19.Other selected pricesAdditional prices tracked by Stats will contribute 6.4 percent to the December quarter Consumer Price Index (CPI), which will be released next Wednesday 22 January.Alcoholic beverages rose an annual 2.6 percent and tobacco rose 7.5 percent.The price of petrol fell an annual 4.1 percent, while diesel was down 11.5 percent.Domestic air transport rose 2.8 percent while international travel fell 10.3 percent.Accommodation costs were mixed with domestic accommodation down 11.7 percent, while prepaid international accommodation rose 6.4 percent.

Welcome to The Week That Was—your go-to recap of the most important news, stories, and updates from the Hibiscus Coast community.Rabbits Raise Safety Concerns at Silverdale United Rugby ClubRead moreWeber Bros Circus Returns in 2025Read moreDebris warning as fishermen rescued in Hauraki GulfRead moreRoad Closures Announced for MaintenanceRead moreThieves Steal $75k Road Safety FencingRead moreThe Week That Was.Stay ahead of the curve with daily local news updates, tailored for users on-the-go.Download the Hibiscus Coast App today and stay informed anywhere, anytime!Have a News story to share?Contact [email protected]

Coasties, have you ever wondered what it's like to have a "silent mind"?The University of Auckland is set to host a unique conference, "Mind's Ear and Inner Voice," from 14-16 April, delving into the fascinating realm of sounds imagined in the mind.This event brings together scientists, philosophers, musicians, poets, and writers to explore the intricacies of auditory imagery, and you're invited!For many, the concept of a "silent mind" may seem unusual.Professor Tony Lambert of the University's School of Psychology notes, "Scientists are fascinated by how the brain makes – or doesn't make – imaginary sounds such as the inner voice."Professor Tony Lambert.This phenomenon, known as anauralia, affects approximately 1 percent of New Zealanders, often accompanied by aphantasia, a lack of visual imagination.Locals with an interest in psychology, music, or creative writing will find this conference particularly engaging.University of Auckland student Sang Hyun Kim, who has a silent mind, is eager to learn more about auditory imagery and its implications.Researchers are also intrigued by the creative processes of musicians, writers, and poets who rely on auditory imagery.Professor Lambert remarks, "For writers, musicians and poets, it can be a key part of the creative process, so they have insights to share, too."The conference features a lineup of esteemed keynote speakers from around the world, including experts on auditory verbal hallucinations and cognitive literary studies.As research continues to unravel the mysteries of auditory imagery, this event promises to foster a deeper understanding of the complex and fascinating world of sounds within our minds.Tickets are now available for the conference, which will be held at the University of Auckland's City Campus.Have a News story to share?Contact [email protected]

Locals should be prepared for scheduled maintenance work on State Highway 1 (SH1) and State Highway 18 (SH18) in the coming days.The New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) has outlined planned closures and detours to accommodate essential maintenance, including road resurfacing and vegetation control.The maintenance will take place during the late-night hours to minimise disruption to traffic.Below are the key details:State Highway 1 (SH1) Closures:Monday 20 January:A full southbound closure will affect the section from Oteha Valley Road to Constellation Drive between 10 pm and 5 am. The following ramps will be closed:Oteha Valley Road southbound on-rampGreville Road southbound on- and off-rampsConstellation Drive southbound off-rampSH1 southbound to SH18 westbound linkRecommended detour: Use Oteha Valley Road, Albany Expressway, Bush Road, Paul Matthews Road, and Upper Harbour Highway.Tuesday 21 January:There will be a full southbound closure from Silverdale Interchange to Oteha Valley Road between 9 pm and 5 am. The affected ramps are:Silverdale southbound on-rampOteha Valley Road southbound off-rampRecommended detour: Use Twin Coast Discovery Highway, East Coast Road, and Oteha Valley Road.Wednesday 22 January:A full northbound closure will take place from Oteha Valley Road to Silverdale Interchange between 9 pm and 5 am. The following ramps will be closed:Oteha Valley Road northbound on-rampSilverdale northbound off-rampBP Service Station Dairy Flat off-ramp and on-ramp (no public access)Recommended detour: Use Oteha Valley Road and Dairy Flat Highway.Thursday 23 January:A full northbound closure from Constellation Drive to Oteha Valley Road will occur between 10 pm and 5 am. The affected ramps are:Constellation Drive northbound on-rampGreville Road northbound on- and off-rampsOteha Valley Road northbound off-rampSH18 eastbound link to SH1 northbound linkRecommended detour: Use Paul Matthews Road, Bush Road, Albany Expressway, and Oteha Valley Road.State Highway 18 (SH18) Closures:Monday 20 January:A full westbound closure will affect the section from Paul Matthews Road to Albany Highway between 10 pm and 5 am. The ramps affected are:Paul Matthews Road westbound on-rampAlbany Highway westbound off-rampRecommended detour: Use Caribbean Drive, Goldfinch Rise, and Albany Highway.Thursday 23 January:A full eastbound closure will take place from Albany Highway to Paul Matthews Road between 10 pm and 5 am. The following ramps will be closed:Albany Highway eastbound on-rampPaul Matthews Road eastbound off-rampSH18 eastbound to SH1 northbound linkRecommended detour: Use Albany Highway, Bush Road, and Paul Matthews Road.During the closures, residents can expect increased noise levels as road work activities, including resurfacing and vegetation control, are carried out.The NZTA advises that all work is weather-dependent, meaning the schedule may change based on weather conditions.Motorists are encouraged to follow detour routes to ensure their journeys are as smooth as possible.Have a News story to share?Contact [email protected]

Coasties, if you're planning on lighting an outdoor fire, be aware that Fire and Emergency New Zealand is moving Auckland into a restricted fire season from 6 am on Thursday, January 16, until further notice.A restricted fire season means anyone who wants to light an outdoor fire will need a fire permit authorised by Fire and Emergency.You can apply for a permit at https://www.checkitsalright.nz/Te Hiku Region Manager Ron Devlin says the decision is due to the high fire risk throughout Auckland."While there is some rain forecast next week, this isn't going to be enough to counter the effects of the recent warm, dry weather," he says.Fire and Emergency continually monitor the weather conditions and keep an eye on how quickly vegetation is drying out.Flammable vegetation such as mānuka, kānuka, and grass, and forestry areas are considered high risk.The Hauraki Gulf Islands remain in a prohibited fire season, which means all outdoor fires are banned on the islands.Ron Devlin urges people to check the safety guidelines at https://www.checkitsalright.nz/ before starting a fire."There's excellent safety advice, which I strongly urge people to follow, to help us keep Auckland fire-free this summer."Have a News story to share?Contact [email protected]