The Government is stepping up its efforts to tackle high supermarket prices by boosting competition in the sector, says Economic Growth Minister Nicola Willis.Recent studies show that New Zealanders are paying higher prices for everyday grocery items compared to shoppers in countries like the United Kingdom, Ireland, and Australia. The supermarket market in New Zealand is dominated by three large companies, with two of them controlling 82 percent of the market share, limiting competition and keeping prices high.“The weekly supermarket shop is a major part of most Kiwi households’ budgets and plays a huge role in the cost of living,” Willis said. “We need more competition in the market to put downward pressure on prices and deliver better deals for shoppers.”The Government is taking decisive action to break up this market dominance. Plans include cracking down on predatory pricing, ensuring fair access to products for all retailers, and making it easier for new competitors to enter the market. Measures also include assisting new entrants in securing land and attracting international investment.Willis' announcement was made alongside the release of a progress report detailing the Government’s “Going for Growth” initiative, which highlights over 80 actions aimed at stimulating the economy. This report reveals the government’s ongoing efforts to bolster economic growth, create jobs, and reduce the cost of living for New Zealanders, particularly through initiatives designed to encourage competition in essential sectors like supermarkets.With inflation now under control, the focus is on creating a more resilient economy that benefits everyone. This includes prioritising five key pillars: developing talent, promoting competitive business settings, encouraging global trade, fostering innovation, and improving infrastructure.“We must ensure that every business, no matter how large or small, has the ability to compete fairly. By improving competition in the supermarket sector, we’re directly addressing the everyday concerns of New Zealand families,” Willis noted.For many Coasties the cost of their weekly grocery shop is a heavy burden, and the Government's measures are intended to ease that pressure. By creating a more competitive supermarket environment, the goal is not only to lower prices but also to enhance consumer choice and improve the overall quality of products available in the market.The “Going for Growth” report shows that the Government is serious about pursuing bold, proactive actions that lead to long-term economic benefits.As this initiative moves forward, local communities can expect to see changes that could make their grocery bills more affordable.Have a News story to share?Contact [email protected]

Auckland’s City Rail Link (CRL) project has reached an exciting milestone as the first test train successfully completed a full journey through the new tunnel.This marks a significant step forward in the development of a project that is set to transform the city’s public transport network.As work continues to prepare for its opening in 2026, residents can look forward to improved travel times and more frequent train services.On the evening of the test, a train made its way from Britomart Station to Mt Eden, covering a distance of 3.45 km on the newly energised underground section of the rail line.The train’s journey is the first of its kind since the last major rail development in Auckland in 2012.The test run was a crucial part of the ongoing preparations for the CRL’s opening.It allowed technical teams to assess various aspects of the tunnel’s infrastructure, including tunnel clearance, power supply, and signalling systems.Further testing will take place in the coming weeks, including checks on tunnel ventilation, security, and communication systems, as well as training for Auckland's metro drivers and station staff.Transport Minister Chris Bishop remarked, “There is still a lot more work to do, but it’s great to see measurable progress being made on site as we countdown to the CRL opening next year.”Minister for Auckland Simeon Brown also added, “The first train through CRL is an important milestone for the project. Once complete, CRL will result in significant time savings, and make public transport a much more viable option for Aucklanders.”“This is momentous for the City Rail Link programme and Auckland ratepayers who have made a significant contribution, alongside government, to get this project completed,” says Mayor Wayne Brown.Have a News story to share?Contact [email protected]

An arrest has been made in connection with the aggravated robbery of a Cash in Transit van in Birkenhead on Tuesday afternoon, with the suspect now facing multiple charges, including aggravated robbery and the use of a firearm.Following the robbery, Police executed a search warrant at a Northcote address late on Tuesday evening. Acting Detective Inspector Simon Harrison of Waitematā CIB confirmed the arrest of a 43-year-old man. "We have charged the man with serious offences," Harrison said, adding that the suspect is scheduled to appear in the North Shore District Court later today.The charges against the man include aggravated robbery and the commission of a crime with a firearm. The police investigation team has been working diligently since the incident to identify and apprehend the suspect."It’s pleasing we have made an arrest so soon into the investigation, given the brazen nature of this alleged offending," Harrison said. "We will not tolerate this offending, especially when a firearm is allegedly presented. I know news of this arrest will bring some reassurance to the Birkenhead community."The arrest follows a string of recent high-profile robberies in the area, with residents expressing concerns about the increasing severity of such crimes. This arrest is expected to offer some comfort to locals, though authorities continue to remind the public to remain vigilant.The investigation is ongoing, and police have urged anyone with information to come forward.Have a News story to share?Contact [email protected]

The government has opened consultation on a set of proposed reforms to the Fisheries Act, which Oceans and Fisheries Minister Shane Jones describes as the most significant changes to the sector in decades.“The Coalition Government is committed to the success of the fishing industry, which generates around $1.6 billion in exports each year and employs 9,000 people directly,” Mr Jones said. “The proposed changes, which I flagged in September last year, will remove unnecessary regulations that impede productivity and the potential of the sector. It is through changes in industries like this that New Zealand is going to fight its way back to economic prosperity.”The consultation document released today outlines options to enhance sustainability, streamline regulatory processes, and refine tools used to set catch limits. Additionally, the proposals aim to improve privacy protections for fishers on vessels equipped with onboard cameras and to make fish discard rules under the Quota Management System more practical.The reforms have been developed following discussions with a seafood industry forum established last year. While economic efficiency is a key focus, Mr Jones emphasised that sustainability remains a priority.“Sustainability will always be the bottom line for fisheries management, and there’s an opportunity to lift export revenue by improving productivity and efficiency, rather than catch volume,” he said.He noted that advancements in data collection, including the rollout of onboard cameras, have provided more accurate insights into fisheries. However, adjustments to monitoring rules are needed to balance data transparency with privacy protections.“This includes enhancing protections for onboard camera footage, amending the scope of where monitoring is not practical or necessary, and clarifying when cameras must be used,” Mr Jones said.The consultation also seeks input on refining discard regulations to make them more workable for fishers under monitored conditions.“I encourage anyone with an interest to read through the proposals and provide feedback,” Mr Jones added.The consultation document, along with submission details, is available on the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) website. Submissions will be accepted until 5 pm on 28 March 2025.Have a News story to share?Contact [email protected]

A major milestone was reached on the Hibiscus Coast today, February 12, 2025, with the official opening of the John Fair Drive bridge. This new 94m state highway crossing connects Milldale directly to surrounding communities, providing residents with easy access to local amenities.The steel and concrete composite structure, which began construction in 2022, features 10 large steel girders. These girders enable the bridge to support vehicles, pedestrians, and the 'Orewa 3' 726mm diameter water main.The bridge's completion is expected to greatly benefit locals, enhancing connectivity and convenience within the area.Have a News story to share?Contact [email protected]

A hunt is underway for a man who stole cash from security guards on Auckland's North Shore while they stocked up an ATMActing Detective Inspector Simon Harrison said the cash in transit van was the target of an aggravated robbery in Birkenhead shortly before 2.30pm on Tuesday.Security staff were carrying out a delivery to the ATM on Birkenhead Ave, he said, when a man approached them and stole a case of cash.The amount of money stolen has not yet been confirmed.Harrison said no one was injured and the man fled on foot, but it was believed he then left in a car."Our investigation is still in the early stages."A scene examination is also being carried out, with additional inquiries to follow."Police have asked anyone in the area at the time and saw anyone heading towards a vehicle carrying a case to contact police on 105, using the reference number P061584274.Information could also be provided anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.In a statement, ASB said: "We are aware of an incident at our Birkenhead ATM today. Our main concern is the personal safety and wellbeing of our people and our customers."We can confirm no one was hurt and everyone is safe. We have a team of support staff assisting, and we are working with the police as they carry out their inquiries. The ATM lobby is now open to the public."NZ Security Association chief Gary Morrison said attacks on armoured vans were less common place then they were 30 years ago.That was likely due to additional protection and more significant penalties for attacks on armoured vehicles, he said.His thoughts were with the staff affected by the robbery."The only good thing out of it is the crew are safe and no public were injured."It comes a week after a man was found on the same road critically injured, with stab wounds.Northcote MP Dan Bidois said news of the aggravated robbery was devastating news for the community, who were still frazzled from the stabbing.Bidois said he had "complete confidence" that police would catch the person involved with the ATM robbery.

The Government is ramping up efforts to enhance competition across the economy, aiming to improve productivity and reduce the cost of living for New Zealanders. Commerce and Consumer Affairs Minister Andrew Bayly confirmed that public consultation on key aspects of a comprehensive competition review has now closed."Improved competition is a top priority for this Government," said Bayly. "When competition is working well, New Zealand businesses—both big and small—can thrive. This has knock-on benefits for consumers, including greater choice and lower prices in key sectors like fuel, groceries, and banking."The review, launched in December 2023, focuses on modernising the Commerce Act, which has not undergone a major revision in over 20 years. According to Bayly, outdated competition laws have contributed to issues such as reduced innovation, limited consumer choices, and rising prices.A major component of the review is merger control settings, with the Government exploring stricter regulations to prevent anti-competitive mergers. "Many of these effects could have been avoided if we had more robust merger controls in place," Bayly noted. "Improved settings can lead to better competition and Kiwis getting a fairer deal."The review also considers granting regulators new code-making powers and equipping them with modern tools to address anti-competitive conduct. Bayly stressed that past regulatory changes have largely been sector-specific, while this broader review seeks to improve the overarching competition framework, reducing the need for reactive regulations in individual industries.The public consultation phase provided businesses, consumer groups, and industry stakeholders with an opportunity to contribute feedback on proposed changes. "Thank you to those who provided feedback during this consultation period. Your views will help shape changes to our competition settings to support competitive, dynamic markets that will boost economic productivity and living standards," Bayly said.With consultation now closed, the Government is expected to announce next steps in due course. Have a News story to share?Contact [email protected]

Auckland’s dominance in the ultra-premium residential property market is slipping, with high-net-worth home buyers increasingly looking to Queenstown and the Bay of Plenty.New research based on Real Estate Institute of New Zealand (REINZ) data reveals that only 152 properties valued at $5 million or more were sold across New Zealand in 2024, marking a 55% decline from 2021. Meanwhile, the overall property market saw 72,484 sales across all price points—down 19% from the 2021 peak.Luxury real estate agent Caleb Paterson of Paterson Luxury Real Estate says Auckland’s share of this exclusive market has shrunk significantly. “In 2019, 82% of all $5 million-plus sales happened in Auckland. By 2024, this had dropped to less than 73%,” he says.While Auckland’s ultra-premium property sales have declined by 14% in the past year, Queenstown has seen a 91% year-on-year increase. Over the longer term, Queenstown’s $5 million-plus sales rose 21% between 2021 and 2024, despite the district’s total property sales declining 13% over the same period.The Bay of Plenty’s high-end market has also shown resilience. “Total sales in the region have fallen 19% since 2020, yet properties in the $5 million-plus bracket have increased by 6%—with a notable 20% lift between 2023 and 2024,” Paterson explains.These shifts suggest a wealth transfer, with ultra-high-net-worth individuals choosing lifestyle regions over Auckland’s commercial centre.Despite the downturn in sales, Paterson believes Auckland’s ultra-premium segment is set for a resurgence. “The last quarter of 2024 had the lowest sales volume of the year, but we’re seeing signs of recovery,” he says.The recent adjustment of the Official Cash Rate (OCR) has played a role in restoring confidence. While luxury home buyers are less reliant on borrowing, lower interest rates signal broader economic stability, increasing market engagement.Paterson notes that the past few years have been challenging for the high-end market.“At one point, over 40% of multimillion-dollar homes were withdrawn due to lack of interest. But many of these have now reentered the market, and buyer engagement has picked up over summer,” he says.A growing trend in New Zealand’s luxury property sector is discreet, off-market transactions. Paterson says his firm offers an advocacy service where they locate homes that meet ultra-high-net-worth buyers’ exacting needs—whether listed for sale or not.“This service is common in North America but relatively new in New Zealand,” he says. “Some buyers seek a property with a helicopter landing pad, others want the worst house on the street to transform into the best. Many will pay 10-15% above market rates to secure a unique property that isn’t advertised.”While Queenstown and Bay of Plenty have gained momentum in the ultra-premium market, Auckland’s luxury sector may be at a turning point. With renewed confidence and increased buyer activity, the city could reclaim some of its lost market share in 2025.Have a News story to share?Contact [email protected]

For the second consecutive week, school buses serving Millwater students travelling to Orewa College have been at full capacity, forcing students to remain at bus stops and find alternative ways to get to school.The issue has caused distress among students and parents alike, with many children making urgent calls home for a lift, leading to last-minute disruptions for families juggling work and other commitments.Why Are Buses Overcrowded?Several factors are contributing to the ongoing problem.Increased road congestion has led to delays in public bus services, prompting some students to opt for the school bus instead.As a result, by the time the school bus reaches later stops, it is already at full capacity.This morning, for example, the public bus route 985 was seen running with plenty of available seats at 8:45 am, yet school buses were already full.This highlights a mismatch between transport availability and student demand.Possible Solutions on the TableTo address the issue, a few solutions should be considered:Increase Capacity: Orewa College and Auckland Transport could request and fund additional buses.Adjust Timetables: Auckland Transport may modify public bus schedules to better match school start times, ensuring more students can use these services.Real-Time Reporting: School bus drivers will notify the depot as soon as they reach capacity, allowing additional buses to be deployed promptly.What Can Parents Do?Parents affected by this issue should report concerns directly to Orewa College and Auckland Transport.The more voices raised, the sooner a solution can be implemented.Have a News story to share?Contact [email protected]

The New Zealand Police are urging parents and young people to remain vigilant about online safety as the country marks Safer Internet Day, a global initiative promoting secure and positive digital experiences.Detective Senior Sergeant Kepal Richards, who leads the Online Child Exploitation Across New Zealand Team (OCEANZ), emphasised the need for parental supervision to safeguard children and teenagers online.“The internet opens up a world of opportunity, but there are offenders online looking to exploit people, and they target the most vulnerable,” Richards said.Although police have not seen a significant surge in such cases in New Zealand, global trends indicate a growing concern. Some online extortion groups attempt to manipulate young users into engaging in harmful or explicit activities, later using the material to coerce victims. These tactics include threats to share images or videos with family and friends, causing distress and fear among victims.Guidance for Parents and CaregiversPolice are advising parents to actively monitor their children’s online activity, educate themselves on potential risks, and maintain open conversations with their children about digital safety.Supervise Online Activity – Know which apps, games, and platforms children are using and who they are interacting with.Check Privacy Settings – Restrict features like location sharing, chat functions, and public profiles.Recognise Manipulation Tactics – Offenders may use fear or shame to control young people, leading to long-term emotional impacts.Report Suspicious Behaviour – Any concerning activity should be reported to the Police or relevant agencies.Richards stressed the importance of open dialogue, saying, “Having regular conversations ensures children feel comfortable coming forward about any online issues that may arise.”Steps for VictimsAuthorities urge anyone targeted by online exploitation to take the following steps:Stop engaging with the offender – Do not comply with further demands.Preserve evidence – Save messages and take screenshots.Report the incident – Inform Police, the Department of Internal Affairs, or Netsafe.For immediate threats, individuals should call 111. Non-emergency reports can be made online at 105.police.govt.nz. Reports to Netsafe can be filed via text at 4282 or by calling 0508 NETSAFE.By staying informed and proactive, families can create safer online spaces for young people in New Zealand.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 United Rugby ClubPosition: Cook / Chef / Kitchen ManagerLocation: SilverdalePart-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 & applyMetlifecarePosition: Cafe AssistantLocation: Red BeachFull-time, 6-month fixed-term maternity cover starting March 2025Friendly environment, serving residents and visitors in an established caféView full listing & applyThe DoctorsPosition: General Practitioner (GP)Location: Stanmore Bay, WhangaparaoaSupportive and collaborative team with no on-call dutiesPermanent role with 6-8 sessions per week, starting April 2025View full listing & applyCareer Tip of the weekIn an interview, don’t just state your skills—back them up with examples. Use real-life scenarios to demonstrate how you’ve applied your expertise to solve problems, add value, or achieve results.That’s it for this week’s local job roundup. Looking for more opportunities? Browse all local job listings on our jobs page. 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.

Steel columns are now being lifted into place as vertical construction begins on Auckland Airport’s new domestic jet terminal. This milestone marks the first visible stage of the terminal’s main structure, with 92 structural columns installed in the initial phase and 190 in total planned across the build.Standing up to 21 metres tall and weighing up to 12 tonnes each, these columns will form the foundation of the terminal’s headhouse—a key hub containing domestic arrivals, baggage claim, airline lounges, traveller amenities, and a cutting-edge baggage system.Auckland Airport Chief Infrastructure Officer Susana Fueyo Suarez said the project represents one of the most significant infrastructure developments in New Zealand.“This is one of the country’s largest infrastructure projects underway right now, and it’s exciting to see the structure rise above the ground,” she said. “You’d have to go back almost 50 years to find a project of this scale at Auckland Airport.”The domestic terminal is the centrepiece of a larger upgrade programme modernising New Zealand’s third-largest port by trade value. The new 240-metre-long gate pier will increase passenger processing space by 44%, boost airline seat capacity by 26%, and improve connectivity between domestic and international flights.Construction will peak in 2027, with 2,500 workers on-site. D&H Steel Construction in West Auckland is fabricating 1,600 tonnes of structural steel, with an additional 3,000 tonnes for beams, roof structures, and lift shafts.D&H Steel Construction General Manager Richard Hine highlighted the project's importance.“We’ve had a long history with Auckland Airport, delivering steel fabrication for some of its biggest projects. More than 200 of our employees will be involved in various aspects of this build,” he said. “We’re proud to contribute to a project that’s shaping the future of Auckland’s infrastructure.”Beyond construction jobs, Auckland Airport remains a key driver of economic growth, facilitating $35.1 billion in annual economic value. By 2032, this impact is expected to increase to $54.9 billion, including $41.1 billion in freight movements.Enhancing the Travel ExperienceThe new individual carrier baggage system (ICS) will bring faster, more efficient luggage handling, fully integrating with ongoing upgrades to the airport’s 30-year-old baggage system. Above the baggage facilities, traveller dwell spaces, cafés, and airline lounges will provide enhanced pre-departure comfort.Auckland Airport’s infrastructure upgrades extend beyond the domestic terminal, with 97% of projects in active design, procurement, or construction. The total redevelopment covers 400,000m² of aeronautical-focused infrastructure, ensuring Auckland remains a competitive and resilient travel hub.Globally, around 200 airport redevelopment projects are underway, preparing for the future of air travel. Auckland Airport’s transformation is a key part of this trend.In September 2024, Auckland Airport signed an $800 million contract with Downer Group subsidiary Hawkins Construction to deliver the new terminal.With visible progress now underway, Auckland is one step closer to unveiling a modern, high-capacity domestic travel hub.Have a News story to share?Contact [email protected]

A nationwide survey aiming to uncover what influences the wellbeing of New Zealand teenagers has launched, engaging over 6,000 young people in the country’s largest longitudinal study.The 15-Year Check-In, part of the Growing Up in New Zealand (GUiNZ) project, is the first survey conducted during participants’ teenage years. Researchers hope to gain insights into the factors shaping adolescence in New Zealand, from social connections to mental health and external pressures like the cost of living.Associate Professor Sarah-Jane Paine, GUiNZ Research Director at the University of Auckland, says the study will capture young people's experiences, aspirations, and challenges.“Adolescence is a crucial stage of development, shaped by everything from sleep patterns and screen time to friendships, school life, cultural identity, and community connections,” says Associate Professor Paine.“This is also a time when external pressures like the rising cost of living and stress on families can impact young people’s wellbeing. Understanding these influences is key to ensuring the right support is in place.”The 15-Year Check-In builds on previous GUiNZ research, which has tracked the cohort’s early childhood development, schooling, and responses to significant events such as the Covid-19 pandemic and extreme weather disasters like the Auckland Anniversary Day floods and Cyclone Gabrielle.One of the study’s key strengths is its ability to track how wellbeing evolves over time.“Wellbeing isn’t just one moment in time, it’s shaped by a complex mix of peer relationships, school experiences, and mental and physical health,” says Associate Professor Paine. “Because we’ve followed these families for nearly 16 years, we can track these interactions and identify what makes a real difference.”The diverse backgrounds of participants—spanning ethnic, geographic, and economic groups—make the study a powerful tool for policymakers, educators, and youth programme designers.“New Zealand is evolving, and it’s essential that decision-makers have accurate, representative data on the experiences of young people from all backgrounds,” she adds.Families involved in GUiNZ are encouraged to participate to ensure their voices contribute to shaping future policies. Findings from the 15-Year Check-In are expected to be released in early 2026.Have a News story to share?Contact [email protected]

Auckland will host the New Zealand Infrastructure Investment Summit from 13-14 March, welcoming around 100 high-profile global investors, business leaders, and construction companies.The Government aims to showcase infrastructure projects and foreign investment opportunities, driving economic growth and job creation.Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and Infrastructure Minister Chris Bishop announced the summit as part of the Government’s Going for Growth plan, which seeks to accelerate economic expansion by reducing regulatory barriers and encouraging international partnerships.“The Government is relentlessly focused on accelerating the growth New Zealand needs to lift our incomes, strengthen our businesses, and create opportunities for all Kiwis,” Luxon said.“That means we need to stop saying ‘no’ to growth opportunities like foreign investment and start saying ‘yes.’”The event will feature participation from multiple Cabinet Ministers, highlighting investment opportunities and policy reforms aimed at making business operations smoother in New Zealand.The Government has already introduced initiatives like Invest NZ, a new agency designed to attract foreign investment, and the Fast-Track approval process to remove bureaucratic hurdles for key projects.Bishop underscored the role of overseas investment in bridging the country's infrastructure gap.“The investment summit will bring together around 100 leaders from global investment and construction companies, among others, to showcase our infrastructure vision and highlight upcoming investment and development opportunities,” he said.Beyond infrastructure, the summit will also highlight investment prospects in various growth sectors and the Māori economy, reinforcing the message that New Zealand is an attractive destination for capital investment.The event is a key component of the Government’s Quarterly Action Plan for 2025, which focuses on policy changes such as visa improvements, regulatory updates for agriculture, and streamlined planning laws to support economic progress.The summit represents a significant opportunity for local industries, with potential benefits including increased employment, accelerated infrastructure development, and greater business expansion.With further details expected in the coming weeks, the event is set to be a major milestone in New Zealand’s efforts to position itself as a competitive and investment-friendly economy.Have a News story to share?Contact [email protected]

New Zealand Sugar Company, trading as Chelsea Sugar, has been fined $149,500 for selling sugar products contaminated with lead. The Auckland District Court's ruling follows a series of recalls in late 2021 after the discovery of lead-tainted sugar in products distributed nationwide.The contamination stemmed from a September 2021 shipment of raw sugar from Australia aboard the cargo ship Rin Treasure, which had previously carried lead and zinc concentrates. Despite prior warnings that the vessel was unfit for bulk sugar transport, New Zealand Sugar Company proceeded with the shipment after a post-cleaning certification. However, ineffective cleaning and a broken pipe that leaked water into the sugar led to lead contamination.New Zealand Food Safety deputy director general Vincent Arbuckle said the contamination affected not only individual consumers but also businesses that used the sugar in their products. "These recalls had a significant impact on consumer access to certain sugar products, such as brown sugar. It also affected a large number of other businesses which had to recall products made with the contaminated sugar," he said.The company pleaded guilty to two charges, including breaching its National Programme (NP) obligations and negligently endangering consumers. The court found that while Chelsea Sugar received high lead contamination readings on 7 October 2021, it continued production instead of halting distribution. The public recall was not issued until 4 November—six weeks after the sugar arrived in New Zealand.Arbuckle stressed the importance of food safety compliance, stating, "Offending at this scale is rare, and the Court’s sentence today sends a strong message that it will not be tolerated."While short-term exposure to lead in the contaminated sugar was not deemed a serious health threat, he emphasised that any risk to public health is unacceptable.Residents concerned about food safety can contact New Zealand Food Safety at 0800 008 333 or use the agency’s online complaint tool.Have a News story to share?Contact [email protected]

Auckland Art Gallery closed on Sunday after a leaking pipe was discovered on the second floor.A statement online announced the gallery and cafe would be closed while a safety assessment was carried out, "after which time we hope to provide more information," it said."The safety of the collection, staff, and visitors are the gallery's top priority, and we are taking precautionary measures to ensure the building and collection are safe.Margaret Young, acting director of Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki, said the gallery's heritage restoration project was unaffected."The gallery team apologises for any inconvenience"Ticket holders for Olafur Eliasson: Your curious journey can reschedule their visit or receive a full refund."Three Auckland Pride Festival events meant for Sunday, Queer Zinemaking, Queer Yarns, and Theytriarchy - were also cancelled and would be rescheduled at a later date, she said.

No matter what the circumstances, small to medium sized businesses are just like humans – they need to adapt to survive.And whilst just a few years ago, Artificial Intelligence (AI) may have seemed out of reach, or probably totally irrelevant to SMEs, it’s now time to jump on board!AI offers powerful tools to help businesses streamline operations, improve customer satisfaction, and drive growth.Here’s a few examples….Boosting Efficiency and Productivity, Reducing CostsAI-powered tools can automate repetitive tasks, freeing up employees to focus on higher-value activities.For instance, AI-driven accounting software can handle invoicing, payroll, and expense tracking with minimal human intervention.For industries like manufacturing, logistics, or agriculture, AI systems can optimise processes.Predictive maintenance tools, for example, identify potential equipment failures before they occur, reducing downtime and repair costs.SMEs in exporting can leverage AI to monitor supply chains and anticipate disruptions, ensuring smoother operations.Enhancing Customer ExperienceExceptional customer experiences are essential for building loyalty and standing out in a crowded market.AI tools enable SMEs to deliver personalised interactions, such as tailored product recommendations or customised email campaigns based on customer behaviour.And chatbots, love them or hate them, are now instantly handling customer queries, even outside normal business hours, thus improving satisfaction levels.Improving Decision-Making with Data InsightsAI excels at analysing large volumes of data and extracting meaningful insights.For SMEs, this means better decision-making based on accurate, real-time information.AI-powered analytics tools can help businesses understand sales trends, customer preferences, and market shifts, allowing them to adjust strategies proactively.A small café, for instance, could use AI to identify its busiest times and offer targeted promotions during slow periods.Similarly, a clothing retailer might analyse seasonal trends to stock popular items, reducing overstocking and wastage.Driving Innovation and GrowthAI empowers SMEs to innovate in ways that were previously impossible.E-commerce businesses, for example, can integrate AI to offer personalised shopping experiences, such as curated product recommendations or virtual try-ons.AI also supports product development by analysing market trends and customer feedback.A food producer could use AI to refine recipes or create new products that cater to growing consumer demand, such as plant-based or sustainable options.Overcoming our Unique ChallengesNew Zealand SMEs face unique challenges, such as geographic isolation and a relatively small domestic market.AI can help bridge these gaps by opening doors to international markets.Translation tools, for instance, allow businesses to communicate with overseas clients in their native languages, while AI logistics platforms can optimise shipping routes and costs for exporters.Sustainability is another focus for many New Zealand businesses.AI tools can help monitor energy usage, reduce waste, and implement eco-friendly practices, saving costs while appealing to environmentally conscious consumers.Overall, AI offers immense potential to enable NZ enterprises to compete effectively, even on a global scale.As AI technology continues to evolve, it will provide even greater opportunities for SMEs to thrive.Embracing AI isn’t just about staying competitive—it’s about future-proofing your business and unlocking new possibilities in a rapidly changing world.(And yes, if nothing other than to prove it works, I used AI to help me write this article. It did not write the whole thing – I still exercised final editing rights to make it sound a little less computer, and a little more human ….).Ready to future-proof your business? Contact Matchbox Consulting today to discover how we can help drive efficiency, enhance customer experiences, and accelerate growth for your SME.

Orewa Beach is set to host the Rowing New Zealand Beach Sprint Championships on 5th and 6th April, marking a major milestone for this fast-growing rowing discipline. While this is not the first national beach sprint event—Wellington hosted the inaugural edition last year—this year’s competition is on a much bigger scale, reflecting the sport’s rapid development in New Zealand.The stakes are high, as this event will serve as a selection opportunity for both Elite and U19 rowers, with top performers aiming for spots in the national squad heading to the World Rowing Beach Sprint Championships in Rio de Janeiro this October. With places on the line, spectators can expect high-speed, adrenaline-fuelled racing featuring some of New Zealand’s best rowing talent.Unlike last year’s one-day competition, this year’s championships will run over two days, providing more racing opportunities and giving athletes a true test of endurance and skill in this intense, knockout-style format. The event will be based at the Orewa Surf Lifesaving Club, which is also providing water safety services for competitors.Rowing New Zealand selected Orewa Beach for its stunning location and strong community support. Event organiser David Vallance says past rowing events in the area have drawn enthusiastic crowds, and the Hibiscus Coast’s love of water sports makes it an ideal host. “We’ve seen fantastic engagement from the local community,” Vallance says. “Orewa is the perfect location—not just for this event, but as a place where this format of rowing can grow.”Beach sprint rowing is quickly gaining popularity as a dynamic, spectator-friendly format. Unlike traditional rowing on flat water, this version begins with a beach sprint to the boat, followed by a fast-paced slalom course, and ends with a dramatic sprint back to shore. To ensure fans across the country can experience the action, racing over both days will be live-streamed via YouTube, using static and drone cameras to capture the intensity and excitement of this unique discipline.Looking ahead, organisers believe beach sprint rowing will attract more athletes from surf lifesaving clubs around New Zealand, providing them with a direct pathway to Olympic competition. With its rich coastal environment and deep rowing tradition, New Zealand is well-positioned to become a global leader in this evolving sport.The Rowing NZ Beach Sprint Championships at Orewa promises to be a thrilling spectacle, featuring world-class competitors and rising stars pushing the limits for national team selection. With strong local support, elite-level racing, and live-streamed coverage, the event is set to cement Orewa’s reputation as a premier destination for water sports.Have a News story to share?Contact [email protected]

Most Aucklanders continue to view their quality of life positively, with 75 per cent rating it favourably in the latest Quality of Life Survey. However, economic pressures and crime remain key concerns for many residents.The survey, conducted every two years, provides insights into urban wellbeing across New Zealand. Results show that 72 per cent of Aucklanders believe their local area is a great place to live, highlighting a strong sense of connection despite rising financial challenges.Auckland Council’s Policy and Planning Committee chair, Councillor Richard Hills, welcomed the findings, emphasising the role of council initiatives in fostering a supportive environment.“The results show in part that the work council does with Auckland communities makes a difference and can help people to thrive,” Cr Hills said. “These results are helpful in shaping how we plan for the future to improve economic, social and environmental outcomes.”While the overall sentiment remains positive, the percentage of Aucklanders rating their quality of life highly has dropped from 82 per cent in 2022 to 75 per cent in 2024.Financial Struggles Drive DeclineEconomic hardship emerged as a leading reason for the decline in wellbeing. Among those who reported a lower quality of life, 67 per cent attributed it to financial difficulties. The survey found that:49 per cent of Aucklanders disagreed that their housing costs were affordable.22 per cent said they did not have enough money to meet daily needs.37 per cent often worried about their own or their family’s financial situation.Crime Adds to Residents’ ConcernsSafety was another major issue raised in the survey. Residents reported theft and burglary (67 per cent), dangerous driving (64 per cent), and vandalism (58 per cent) as key problems in their local areas over the past year.Despite these challenges, there were positive trends. One in four Aucklanders said their quality of life had improved in the past year. Among this group:32 per cent cited better healthcare and wellbeing.26 per cent reported improved financial stability.23 per cent credited lifestyle or work-related factors.Additionally, 68 per cent of respondents rated their physical and mental health positively, and most felt they had people to rely on for emotional and practical support.The findings will be used to inform council planning and shape future strategies under the Auckland Plan 2050 – Thriving Communities Strategy.Have a News story to share?Contact [email protected]