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A Coastie Success: Just Bliss Beauty
A Coastie Success: Just Bliss Beauty

19 May 2025, 2:44 AM

We love shining a spotlight on the local businesses that make our community thrive.Today, we’re excited to share the story of Just Bliss Beauty, a place where natural beauty meets heartfelt care, nestled in the heart of Ōrewa.Stepping into Just Bliss Beauty is like stepping into a sanctuary of calm.The gentle scent of natural oils lingers in the air, and soft, soothing music wraps around you like a warm hug.At the heart of this serene space is Melissa Giddy, a skilled beauty therapist whose radiant smile and expert touch have made her a trusted favourite among locals.Melissa’s clients come seeking more than just treatments—they come for a moment of self-care, a place to unwind, and a chance to reconnect with themselves.With a focus on natural beauty, Melissa offers a range of luxury treatments, from rejuvenating facials using high-quality natural products to perfectly polished manicures, relaxing pedicures, and precise lash and brow tinting.Her personalised approach means that every client is treated like a cherished friend.But what truly sets Just Bliss Beauty apart is Melissa’s signature hands-on facials—a soothing, nurturing touch that leaves clients feeling both radiant and deeply relaxed.And soon, she will be introducing even more to her menu—specialised Facial Sculpting & Lifting Massage and Buccal Massage, a unique, natural approach to enhancing facial contours.Clients love the peaceful location and the relaxed ambience of Melissa’s space.They appreciate the time she takes with them, her gentle expertise, and the way each visit feels like a personal retreat.And for those seeking something extra special, Just Bliss Beauty has just introduced the Frangipani Infusion by Pure Fiji—a luxurious, limited-time treatment that brings a touch of island bliss right here in Orewa.Ready to experience the magic of Just Bliss Beauty?Visit justbliss.co.nz/booking to book your appointment, or call Melissa on 021 580 852.

Auckland Business Confidence Hits New Low
Auckland Business Confidence Hits New Low

19 May 2025, 12:00 AM

It’s getting harder to find optimism among Auckland’s businesses, and it’s a trend that’s also being felt by many Coasties.The latest Auckland Business Chamber confidence survey reveals that tough conditions continue to weigh on local businesses, with most sentiment indicators worsening.Key Findings:Business Confidence: 47% of businesses report negative sentiment—up from 44%.Economic Outlook: 38% expect New Zealand’s economy to improve, down from 44%.Business Performance: 50% say they’re underperforming against expectations, rising from 45%.Revenue Woes: Nearly half (49%) report a drop in revenue over the past year.Rising Costs: 78% expect costs to climb in the next 12 months, up from 76%.Simon Bridges, CEO of the Auckland Business Chamber, didn’t mince words about the challenges.“After a terrible and prolonged period, businesspeople were hoping for better days by now… But the reality is they don’t see that yet.”One of the standout concerns is the rising importance of international trade and geopolitical risks, which jumped from 27% to 42%.Bridges attributes some of this to the “Trump effect,” as global tensions influence local business confidence.But for many local business owners on the Hibiscus Coast, it’s the combination of sluggish sales, rising costs, and ongoing uncertainty that really stings.Still, there’s always a sense of resilience here—Coasties have weathered tough times before and know how to adapt.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

North Harbour Stadium’s Future Unclear
North Harbour Stadium’s Future Unclear

18 May 2025, 8:46 PM

If you were at North Harbour Stadium on Saturday night, you know what a night it was.I was right there, wedged between boisterous supporters, hot chips in one hand, and trying not to spill my drink as Moana Pasifika stunned the Auckland Blues 27-21.Ardie Savea was everywhere—leading his team like a force of nature.Every tackle, every run—it was electric.The crowd? Packed.The atmosphere? Pure magic.A sea of fans and team flags waving frantically, young and old cheering together, and a roar that makes you feel part of something big.This is what live sport is all about.So why don’t we see more of it at North Harbour Stadium?It’s only 15 minutes down the motorway for Coasties, but big games are rare.Part of the problem is the stadium’s future is up in the air.Auckland Council is exploring three options:Keep the Stadium As Is – but this means spending around $33 million on maintenance over the next decade.Redevelop the Site – creating a smaller, more community-focused venue, potentially funded through land sales.Change Management – bringing in new operators to boost the stadium’s financial performance and community engagement.North Harbour Stadium, Albany.For us Coasties, it’s not just about having a place to watch the big games.It’s about keeping a great venue alive—one that brings in crowds, boosts local businesses, and gives us a place to cheer together.If you love live sport, now’s the time to have your say.Auckland Council is the one making the call—so why not share your thoughts?Because if you want more Saturday night thrillers just down the motorway, your voice matters.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

Public Cloud Data Centres Certified in Silverdale
Public Cloud Data Centres Certified in Silverdale

18 May 2025, 12:14 AM

Ever driven past that massive building on Highgate Parkway in Silverdale and wondered what goes on inside?Well, it’s not just any building—it’s home to one of New Zealand’s first ever GCDO-certified hyperscale Public Cloud Data Centres.CDC Data Centres New Zealand Limited (CDC) has made Silverdale part of a digital milestone, housing two state-of-the-art facilities—SD1 and SD1A—with a current operating capacity of 22 MW.This is more than just a tech hub—it’s a secure, efficient, and resilient digital fortress supporting everything from government services to critical infrastructure.But what does this really mean for locals?It means that right here on the Hibiscus Coast, we’re at the forefront of a secure, cutting-edge digital infrastructure that powers government services and protects vital data.This isn’t just about some big data centre—it’s about making sure our digital lives, from healthcare to education, are secure and reliable.This certification, part of the Public Cloud Data Centre Certification (PCDCC) initiative led by the Government Chief Digital Officer (GCDO), provides a standardised and consistent security assessment for onshore public cloud data centres.It aims to boost the security, efficiency, and reliability of cloud services for government agencies.Richard Ashworth, General Manager All-of-Government Services Delivery, highlighted the significance of this achievement, stating that it will strengthen New Zealand’s digital infrastructure and support the country’s long-term digital transformation goals.“This certification provides New Zealand government agencies and organisations with confidence that the Public Cloud Data Centres they use meet security obligations and reduce ownership, control, and supply chain risks,” Ashworth said.For Coasties, having a hyperscale data centre in Silverdale means being part of a national initiative to secure critical digital infrastructure.It enhances the region’s role in supporting secure cloud services for local and national organisations.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

Food Prices Surge Again: Dairy Costs Soar
Food Prices Surge Again: Dairy Costs Soar

17 May 2025, 1:31 AM

Food prices rose 3.7% in the 12 months to April 2025, up from 3.5% in March, according to Stats NZ.Grocery items, especially dairy, and non-alcoholic beverages saw the biggest jumps.Dairy prices surged, with butter up a staggering 65.3%, while milk rose 15.1% and cheese 24%.A 500g block of butter now costs an average of $7.42, nearly $3 more than last year.Nicola Growden, Stats NZ's prices spokesperson, highlighted the impact.“Price increases were widespread, with all five food groups recording an increase,” she said.Notably, the fruit and vegetables group saw its first price rise since January 2024, climbing 0.2%.Non-alcoholic beverages were also hit, driven by a 21.3% jump in instant coffee prices.A 100g jar now costs an average of $8.21, up $1.44 from a year ago.Tips to Beat Rising Food CostsAs grocery bills climb, Coasties can take a few steps to save money:Shop Smart: Switch to store brands or look for discounts on bulk items.Focus on Seasonal Produce: Buy fruits and vegetables that are in-season for better prices.Save on Dairy: When butter is on special, buy in bulk and freeze it. Properly wrapped, frozen butter can last up to 9 months without losing quality.Cut Coffee Costs: Try cheaper coffee brands, buy larger packs, or brew at home.Use Price Tracking Apps: Tools like Grocer NZ can help you find the best deals.These simple changes can help Coast households manage the impact of rising food prices.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

Workplace Mental Health Neglect Hurts Coasties
Workplace Mental Health Neglect Hurts Coasties

16 May 2025, 11:46 PM

Mental health in the workplace is too often an afterthought, but neglecting it can have lasting consequences.EMA Health and Safety Facilitator Peter Simunovich is warning businesses that treating mental health as a “nice to have” rather than a necessity is leading to a dangerous trend—slow harm.Simunovich highlights that slow harm is the gradual, often unnoticed decline in employee wellbeing.It shows up as chronic stress, burnout, and even physical illness over time.“Mental health decline doesn't usually happen in dramatic moments. It’s the accumulation of minor changes—like feeling a bit more exhausted, a little more irritable, or losing motivation,” he explained.The Covid-19 pandemic initially brought mental health to the forefront, with many companies adopting support systems.But as the urgency has faded, so too has the focus on employee wellbeing.Simunovich warns this is a mistake. “We are wired not to notice slow harm immediately. By the time we recognise it, the damage is often done.”For Coasties, this message is a timely reminder that maintaining good mental health isn’t just a personal responsibility—it’s a workplace priority.Simunovich’s work with EMA includes training employees to identify signs of slow harm and practical techniques to prevent it, like mental redirection and structured visualisation.He emphasises that businesses need more than basic mental health first aid.A true commitment means building a culture where mental health is prioritised, and early signs of deterioration are addressed before they become crises.Simunovich’s advice is clear: local businesses must treat mental health as an essential aspect of health and safety, just like any physical hazard.Without it, slow harm will continue to impact employee performance, engagement, and overall wellbeing.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

New site found for North Shore recycling plant destroyed by fire
New site found for North Shore recycling plant destroyed by fire

16 May 2025, 9:14 PM

The recycling centre that burnt down on Auckland's North Shore last month has found a new site to accommodate staff.The Abilities Recycling plant caught fire, burning to the ground and destroying critical equipment.The organisation employs almost 120 employees with disabilities.A smaller site has been found in Wairau Valley, which will continue the organisation's recycling work.It intends setting up another Wairau Valley site for E-waste and will be announcing drop-off details shortly.Abilities managing director Peter Fraher said it was likely to take two years before they were fully operational once again."To replicate what Abilities had before, which was a totally integrated site, is, in the short term, almost impossible," he said."So we're looking at taking it step by step, our first priority is to look after our staff with disabilities."Fraher said they had not defined just how many staff would be able to work at the new site, but they were looking at rostering."We hope that a good percentage of our people with disabilities can be accommodated at this location, which is still in the Wairau Valley and close to their normal commute."The support the organisation has had from the community since the fire has been overwhelming and uplifting, Fraher said."When I get out of bed in the morning, and I think 'we've got a big road ahead', I just think of all the support we've had and it just uplifts me, and it uplifts all our team," he said."It's just been amazing, the New Zealand community, it's alive and well, and we want to thank everybody, just from my heart, from the support we've had, it's just unbelievable."Fraher said there was still more work to do."Our current planning is that it's a two year project, and we have that ultimate goal, but like any journey it's a step at a time, and we're working very hard to do it as soon as possible but we also have to be practical," he said."To accommodate 120 people with disabilities, and hopefully more, it's a big task and it's got to be done safely, so it's not going to happen overnight."

Blues Star Caleb Clarke Returns for Local Clash
Blues Star Caleb Clarke Returns for Local Clash

16 May 2025, 4:00 AM

Blues winger Caleb Clarke is set to make his much-anticipated return from injury in Saturday night's Super Rugby clash against Moana Pasifika at North Harbour Stadium.After missing four games with a thigh injury, Clarke will take his spot on the left wing, while AJ Lam shifts to the right.For Coasties, this is a prime chance to see some of the country’s top rugby talent right on their doorstep.In a further boost for the Blues' lineup, Angus Ta’avao returns to start at tighthead prop, Josh Beehre steps into the second row, and Adrian Choat fills in at blindside flanker, replacing Anton Segner, who is sidelined with a shoulder injury.Blues head coach Vern Cotter is focused on maintaining the team’s momentum.“This is another big match for us. We need to be clinical as a group and lift our physicality and intensity,” Cotter said.“We’ve built some good momentum in recent weeks, and this is another step forward as we focus on continually improving our game.”Starting XV:Joshua Fusitu’a (33 caps)Ricky Riccitelli (47 caps)Angus Ta’avao (78 caps)Patrick Tuipulotu (Captain) (120 caps)Josh Beehre (23 caps)Adrian Choat (51 caps)Dalton Papali’i (93 caps)Hoskins Sotutu (74 caps)Taufa Funaki (32 caps)Beauden Barrett (40 caps)Caleb Clarke (71 caps)Xavi Taele (4 caps)Rieko Ioane (124 caps)AJ Lam (54 caps)Corey Evans (25 caps)Reserves:Kurt Eklund (71 caps)Mason Tupaea (7 caps)Marcel Renata (62 caps)Laghlan McWhannell (19 caps)Cam Christie (7 caps)Finlay Christie (64 caps)Harry Plummer (85 caps)Cole Forbes (26 caps)Injury Updates:Anton Segner (shoulder)Stephen Perofeta (leg)Reon Paul (shoulder)Cam Suafoa (medical)Ofa Tu’ungafasi (neck, season)Sam Darry (shoulder, season)For Coasties, this is more than just a game—it's a chance to watch world-class players like Beauden Barrett, Rieko Ioane, and the returning Clarke light up North Harbour Stadium.Don’t miss it.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

NZ Broadcasters Go Digital
NZ Broadcasters Go Digital

16 May 2025, 12:00 AM

If you love flicking on the car radio or catching the nightly news on TV, here’s something to keep an eye on. The BBC in England has announced it’s preparing to ditch traditional television and radio broadcasts entirely—going online-only within the next decade. And here in New Zealand, our broadcasters seem to be following a similar path.We’ve already seen it with iHeart Country New Zealand, which just launched this month. It’s a new station with a fresh country music mix, but there’s a twist—no live presenters, just pre-programmed music. And Gold FM? It’s moved entirely online.It’s not just radio either. TVNZ has its "TVNZ+" digital platform, Sky’s expanding its streaming, and Discovery NZ is pouring resources into on-demand shows. Even your favourite local stations might soon be app-only.There’s a deadline too. All AM and FM radio licences in New Zealand expire in 2031, along with digital television licences. Unless the government extends them, this could be the final chapter for traditional broadcasts.For Coasties, that means your drive-time radio could become an app, and the six o’clock news might be something you stream whenever you want. Sure, it’s more convenient—watch or listen on your terms—but it’s a big change from the old way.So, if you love the comfort of a familiar voice on the radio or catching the nightly news on the telly, the move to streaming and on-demand might feel like the end of an era.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

Luxury Rentals Surge as Wealthy Seek NZ Visas
Luxury Rentals Surge as Wealthy Seek NZ Visas

15 May 2025, 9:00 PM

Coasties might notice a new trend in the luxury property market—high-end rentals are soaring, thanks to wealthy North American investors. These well-heeled visitors, particularly from the United States and Canada, are driving demand for multimillion-dollar homes while waiting for clarity around New Zealand’s investor visa rules.Local real estate expert Caleb Paterson, who specialises in high-value properties, says these clients are willing to pay $20,000 to $30,000 a week for premium rentals—homes they may eventually buy if visa pathways open.“It’s a ‘try-before-you-buy’ situation for many,” Paterson explains. He adds that vendors who once wouldn’t consider renting their properties are now embracing the idea, hoping to convert tenants into buyers.While Auckland’s luxury market is slowing—properties valued at $3.5 million now take an average of 64 days to sell, up from 42 days last year—these high-net-worth renters are providing a fresh opportunity.Even on the Hibiscus Coast, where coastal homes offer a premium lifestyle, local homeowners with high-end properties may find interest from international renters, especially given the falling New Zealand dollar, which makes rentals look like a bargain to overseas clients.Paterson believes the trend will continue as visa rules remain uncertain. For local homeowners, it could be a chance to benefit from a slow market without selling.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

Auckland Transport Urged to Do Better
Auckland Transport Urged to Do Better

14 May 2025, 8:29 PM

The Deputy-Auditor General is urging Auckland Transport (AT) to do better in communicating unplanned transport disruptions to the public, and to improve its processes for managing disruptions.A report published by the Office of the Auditor General (OAG) has found that AT's systems for identifying and managing disruptions are largely manual, complex, and have resulted in long delays for patrons to be informed.It takes on average 22 minutes for AT to inform patrons about unplanned disruptions after an incident occurs, according to AT's data - and in one instance in 2023, a bus operator took three hours to notify AT's operations team that it had cancelled services on a route due to weather conditions.There have also been multiple instances when children have been stranded due to school bus services not arriving on time, between 2021 and 2024, the report found.The Deputy-Auditor General Andrew McConnell acknowledged that AT manages between 67 and 144 disruptions every day - including planned ones - across its high volume of services, but he stressed that the organisation had a responsibility to provide people with clear and accurate information."Frequent disruptions can undermine public confidence in the public transport system and people's willingness to use it," McConnell said.Unplanned disruptions include bus delays, diversions due to traffic accidents, cancellations due to severe weather, breakdowns and mechanical issues.McConnell said that while AT had a mobile app accessed by 300,000 people monthly, and 970 digital displays across 15 percent of its stops, the information on these portals were not always accurate.Outdated technology and complex manual systemsThe Deputy-Auditor General highlighted AT's problematic reliance on a largely manual system and outdated technology for managing disruptions.He said this had limited AT's capacity to communicate unplanned disruptions out-of-hours, and to identify issues in a timely manner.AT has a "disruption communication system map" which consultants have described as the most complex they have ever mapped.Informing the public about an unplanned rail disruption could involve up to 20 different people across AT, KiwiRail and Auckland One Rail.The OAG has been told that only 3 percent of the actions were automated.The OAG has also been told by AT staff that sometimes they must rely on others - including operators and members of the public - to alert them to what was happening on the network.The report said the manual processes meant that AT provided limited, or sometimes no information, about unplanned disruptions that happened outside of its business hours.McConnell has given AT a number of recommendations, including reviewing the information it holds about passengers' experience to make improvements, and be more specific on how it will learn from its reviews to better manage disruptions.He said AT was aware of what it needed to improve its communications around disruptions based on its own surveys and research.McConnell acknowledged that AT had a programme underway to address these issues.

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