Coasties keeping an eye on the property market will notice things are starting to move again—at least when it comes to sales.New national figures released by the Real Estate Institute of New Zealand (REINZ) show a 12.8% increase in sales compared to March 2024.That’s 7,640 properties changing hands nationwide, up from 6,774 this time last year.The trend is even stronger outside Auckland, with sales rising 14.2% year-on-year.Buyers are especially active in the Tasman and West Coast regions, which saw jumps of 48.6% and 23.6% respectively.Acting REINZ Chief Executive Rowan Dixon says the market remains resilient despite cooler weather and softer prices.“There’s been strong attendance at open homes and auctions, and even when a property doesn’t sell under the hammer, there’s plenty of post-auction interest,” she says.House prices, however, remain subdued.The national median dropped 1.4% to $790,000 compared to March 2024.Excluding Auckland, the median slipped 2.1% to $700,000.Six regions, including the West Coast (+11.5%), saw price increases.But places like Nelson saw sharp drops—down 11.4% to $640,000.Listings are also up.Nationally, new listings increased 5.0% year-on-year, with inventory levels rising 10.9%.It’s a mix of good news for buyers and sellers alike.Buyers have more choice, while sellers are seeing renewed interest as interest rates edge lower.Locals heading to auctions might note a slight dip in popularity—just under 16% of all March sales were via auction.Properties are also taking longer to sell, with the median days to sell rising to 41, up three days on last year.REINZ’s House Price Index (HPI), which reflects changing market value, was down 0.7% year-on-year.With interest rates easing and inventory climbing, the next few months may offer Coasties a more stable market to buy or sell in.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

Auckland Airport is gearing up for its busiest April school holidays in years, with 846,000 travellers expected between 12 and 27 April.Of those, 437,000 will head overseas—many bound for Australia, America or China—while 409,000 will fly domestically to hotspots like Christchurch, Wellington and Queenstown.The biggest days are right around the corner.On Sunday 27 April, 14,000 international travellers are expected to depart—the busiest day for overseas flights.The peak for domestic arrivals is Thursday 17 April, with 13,700 passengers coming through.Auckland Airport Chief Operations Officer Chloe Surridge says her team is well prepared for the seasonal spike, which coincides with Easter and Anzac Day falling in the same fortnight for the first time since 2022.“Many Kiwis are taking the opportunity for a ten-day break,” she said.“We’re working closely with airlines and agencies to make travel smooth, and we ask everyone to allow extra time and pack some patience.”The international terminal’s covered drop-off area has seen over 3.2 million vehicles pass through since opening a year ago.With a three-minute dwell time in place, the airport reminds Coasties picking up or dropping off loved ones to keep things moving.Travel tips include:Complete your NZ Traveller Declaration online.Use on-site hotels for early morning flights.Keep laptops and liquids in your bag when going through CT scanner lanes.Check for scanner trial signs on domestic flights.With 26 airlines flying to 42 destinations, Auckland Airport remains a key hub for holiday-makers across the country—including many heading to or from the Hibiscus Coast.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

The Auckland Easter Show is back at the Showgrounds this long weekend, running from Friday, 18 April to Monday, 21 April — rain or shine.Organisers are expecting big crowds despite the wet forecast, thanks to a full schedule of indoor attractions and covered entertainment.This year’s show combines heartwarming traditions with modern thrills, including:Life-sized Dinosaurs of Patagonia exhibitionSheep dog trials with 60 sheep from Cornwall ParkClassic Mahons rides like the teacups and carouselNew arrivals including the towering Ali Baba ride and Ferris WheelThe Action Arena featuring FMX legend Nick Franklin and BMX stars like Jed Mildon and Ellie ChewFamilies will also enjoy the petting zoo, ice skating rink, bouncy castles, and free Gaming Zone with Just Dance and Fortnite challenges.The show opens daily with:Day Carnival from 10:00–18:00Evening Carnival from 18:00–22:00Entry remains affordable, with adult day passes at $15 at the gate ($12 online early-bird) and children just $10.After a two-year COVID break and a tough economic run, organiser Dave Mee says the goal is to bring joy and connection.“We’re bringing back the traditions Kiwis love while adding new surprises to make memories for the next generation,” Mee said.The Easter Show is more than an event — it’s a celebration of community, heritage, and good old-fashioned fun.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

After more than two years of steady decline, SEEK’s March report shows a glimmer of stability in New Zealand’s job market.Job ads remained flat month-on-month, but increased 2% for the quarter—the first quarterly growth seen since August 2022.While ads in major cities fell slightly by 1%, regional New Zealand stepped up with a 3% rise. Marlborough led the charge with a 24% monthly lift, followed by Wellington (2%) and Canterbury (1%).Industries showed a mixed bag. The Consumer Services and Industrial sectors dipped, particularly in metro areas. Hospitality & Tourism and Retail & Consumer Products both saw notable drops, down 9% and 10% respectively.But there was good news elsewhere. Job ads rose 7% in both Healthcare & Medical and Education & Training, with the Public sector also seeing broad growth across both city and regional areas.SEEK NZ Country Manager Rob Clark says the report suggests momentum is returning.“There are early signs that economic and labour market growth may be on the horizon,” he said.Applications per job ad climbed 2% overall in February, with particularly sharp increases in Retail (14%), Sales (6%) and Accounting (4%), making competition tighter for jobseekers across the board.With ad volumes rising in key industries like ICT, Administration, and Sales in Q1, there’s cautious optimism that opportunities may continue to improve as 2025 unfolds.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

One NZ has expanded its satellite text service to help customers north of Hamilton stay connected as Cyclone Tam disrupts mobile coverage across Northland and Auckland.Power outages caused by the storm have taken some mobile towers offline.While One NZ sites have battery back-up, mobile coverage in the north remains limited.In response, the company has made its One NZ Satellite service—powered by Starlink’s Direct to Cell technology—available at no extra charge to more users in the upper North Island, including Tauranga and Rotorua.The service allows anyone with a VoLTE-capable 4G or 5G phone to send and receive basic text messages, even without traditional mobile signal, provided they have a clear view of the sky.“This satellite-based text service offers another communication channel,” said Joe Goddard, One NZ Experience & Commercial Director.“It means people can contact a loved one or arrange emergency help when other networks are down.”The network banner on compatible phones will show One NZ SpaceX when connected.One NZ is urging locals to charge their phones now in case conditions worsen.Even those on other mobile networks can access the service by picking up a One NZ prepay SIM from dairies, petrol stations, supermarkets, or other local outlets.To check if your phone is compatible, or to learn more, visit:one.nz/our-networks/volteone.nz/why-choose-us/satelliteSeen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

Looking for plans? Explore events happening soon on the Hibiscus Coast and start planning your next activity!Retro 80's DJ NightSat 19 AprilMore details Silverdale Night MarketSun 20 AprilMore details Bluey's Big Play The Stage ShowSat 26 AprilMore detailsWant to see more events?Explore everything happening in our community on the Hibiscus Coast App.Have an event to share?Promote it for Free - click here!

Rodney residents will soon have rubbish collections funded through their rates, with Auckland Council’s new service starting from 1 September 2025.The change is part of a regionwide shift to standardise waste services, giving all Auckland households the same access and cost regardless of location.From 30 June 2025, bins will start arriving at the roadside of Rodney properties, ahead of the first collection week in September.Residents can choose from three bin sizes, and the targeted rate applied will reflect the size they select.Requests to change bin sizes must be submitted by 18 May 2025.Previously, Rodney households relied on private waste services or transfer stations.Locals using a private bin should contact their provider before 1 September to find out what to do with it.Council General Manager Waste Solutions Justine Haves says the change brings consistency, lower costs, and environmental benefits.“Having everyone on a unified collection service, including recycling and food scraps, gives us the best chance to reduce waste and emissions as we work towards zero waste by 2040,” she says.Rural residents are encouraged to use bins instead of single-use bags, as they’re safer, cleaner, and better for the environment.Where bins aren’t practical, households can request refuse bags by emailing [email protected] homes choosing bags will have three pack size options, each with a matching rates charge.The move is a major shift for Rodney and should make waste disposal easier, safer, and more sustainable for Coasties.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

The Blues have confirmed three changes to their backline ahead of Friday night’s Round 10 clash against the Crusaders in Christchurch, with Caleb Clarke ruled out due to a thigh injury.Mark Tele’a shifts to the left wing, Cole Forbes starts on the right, and Zarn Sullivan takes the fullback spot.It’s the first of four Friday night games in a row for the Blues, who are keen to maintain momentum after consecutive wins.Head coach Vern Cotter says the team is continuing to push for improvement.“We have improved each week, but we know we still have plenty of space to get better,” Cotter said.“There’s great internal competition in this squad. A strong team performance against a confident Crusaders team will be key on Friday night.”The starting forward pack remains unchanged, with Patrick Tuipulotu leading from lock and younger brother Hamdahn Tuipolotu named on the bench for a potential Blues debut.The match kicks off at 7:05pm on tomorrow in Christchurch.Blues Starting XVJoshua Fusitu’aRicky RiccitelliAngus Ta’avaoPatrick Tuipulotu (capt)Josh BeehreAnton SegnerDalton Papali’iHoskins SotutuFinlay ChristieBeauden BarrettMark Tele’aAJ LamRieko IoaneCole ForbesZarn SullivanReserves:Eklund, Tupaea, Tuipolotu, McWhannell, Suafoa, Choat, Funaki, PlummerUnavailable due to injury:Clarke (thigh), Renata (calf), Paul (shoulder), Tu’ungafasi (neck), Darry (shoulder)Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

Severe winds and rain from ex-Tropical Cyclone Tam swept across Auckland overnight, cutting power to thousands.At the peak, over 10,000 people were without electricity.By morning, Vector had restored power to 80% of affected properties, with fewer than 2% of customers still offline.The Hibiscus Coast, like many parts of the region, has felt the brunt of the weather, with high winds expected to continue through the day.Vector has a 1,000-strong team of staff and contractors responding across the network. However, some outages may take longer to fix due to safety risks and access issues.“If winds remain severe, our crews may not be able to reach some areas until it’s safe,” a Vector spokesperson said.Locals are urged to check the latest updates on vector.co.nz/outages, especially if still without power.Residents should keep well clear of any downed or low-hanging power lines and always treat them as live—call 111 if you see any.Anyone who relies on electricity for medical reasons should ensure their emergency backup plans are in place and ready.Stay safe, Coasties—it’s a wild one out there.Check your local street for a Power Outage online here.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

Your weekend weather at a glance.Coasties, here’s what Easter weekend has in store:Friday, 18/4 Windy, with showers. Breezy to brisk Nor'East winds.High: 23Low: 19Saturday, 19/4Thunderstorms. Breezy to brisk North to Nor'East winds.High: 23Low: 18Sunday, 20/4Rain. Fairly breezy North to Nor'East winds.High: 23Low: 16Monday, 21/4Showers. Light West to Nor'West winds.High: 22Low: 16Looking for more details?Check out our full Weather & Travel section in the Hibiscus Coast App for:🌊 Tide information🌬️ Wind conditions🌊 Wave updates🌞 UV levels🏖️ Safe swimming areasand much more.Everything you need is inside the Hibiscus Coast App – anytime, anywhere!

Flights and ferries have been cancelled in Auckland as ex-cyclone Tam batters the region with strong winds.The severe weather system is bringing sustained heavy rain and severe easterly gales to many areas of the North Island and upper South Island through to Easter weekend.Auckland's deputy mayor Desley Simpson told Nine to Noon, Auckland experienced a "pretty wild night" due to the strong winds, which were expected to continue through to Friday."It's really important to be really careful out there especially if you're driving."Simpson said there had been power outages, fallen trees and debris spread across roads throughout Auckland.She said Auckland's Cornwall Park was closed and sandbags had been put on Tamaki Drive, which was prone to surface flooding."My message to Aucklanders is please take care as you move around today and tomorrow."So far, Simpson said traffic was not too bad in the city, but it could be a different story this afternoon when people finish work and travel outside of the region for Easter weekend.At that point, Simpson said the rain was expected to be heavy, and travellers should make sure not to drive through floodwater and be extra vigilant on the roads.Auckland Emergency Management's general manager Adam Maggs told Morning Report, council contractors responded to more than 65 callouts for damage and clearing trees and debris overnight.He said people should be cautious near the sea, as large swells and rough seas hit the eastern coastal areas.Flights cancelled at Auckland AirportAuckland Airport's domestic terminal was busier than usual on Thursday, Air New Zealand's general manager of airports, Kate Boyer said, due to the Easter weekend and school holidays.Shortly after 9am, Boyer told Nine to Noon, six domestic flights had been cancelled that were meant to be heading into Northland."We're expecting the weather to deteriorate this afternoon, so we're trying to get as many people out earlier as soon as we can."We will communicate any disruption to flights."Boyer encouraged anyone flying on Thursday to leave a little bit of extra time before their flight and to keep an eye on the Air New Zealand app or website.Auckland power cutsVector said at its peak there were 10,000 customers without power."What we can say about the latest situation is that our crews have worked through the night, where it has been safe to do so, and have managed to restore 80 percent of outages, with fewer than 2 percent of our customers affected."With winds expected to continue throughout the day a Vector spokesperson said more outages were expected.Anyone without power should follow updates on Vector's website, the spokesperson said, as it was the fastest way to stay up to date with restoration progress.Ferries cancelledA number of ferry services have been suspended due to high winds, with some cancelled for the entire day.Services from Northcote Point, Gulf Harbour and Pine Harbour have been suspended for the day while Birkenhead ferry services have been cancelled until further notice.Devonport and Hobsonville Point have been suspended until at least 12pm.Specific services from Bayswater, Halfmoon Bay and West Harbour were cancelled on Thursday.All three ferry companies sailing to Waiheke Island have cancelled their services on Thursday morning.Auckland and Great Barrier Island remain under strong wind warnings through to midnight on Thursday.A heavy rain watch was due to continue to the early hours of Friday morning.What should Aucklanders do?Auckland Emergency Management has sent out a list of what people in Auckland should do to keep themselves and others safe during the storm:If travelling, plan your journey, drive to the conditions and allow extra time.Stay up to date with weather forecasts and check AT and NZTA's journey planners for disruption.Keep drains and gutters clear.For blockages or issues with the stormwater network, phone the council on 09 301 0101.Bring rubbish, recycling and foodscraps bins in as soon as you can after being emptied.For tree damage on public land, go to the council's website and 'report a problem' online.Check your emergency readiness supplies, just in case of power outages.

Thousands of New Zealanders eyeing a move to Australia for better pay are being urged to look closely at workplace culture before accepting a job.New research reveals Australian firms often lag behind New Zealand counterparts in fairness, safety, and inclusivity.The Great Place To Work Study, based on feedback from over 156,000 employees, found that typical Kiwi workplaces rate higher than Australian ones on key cultural markers.Just 73% of Aussie workers believe their workplace is fair regardless of race, compared to 76% in New Zealand.The figure jumps to 93% at certified workplaces that actively invest in inclusivity.The study also shows job security concerns are more common across the ditch, with only 58% of Australian workers confident redundancies are a last resort.Workplace safety lags too—only 51% of Aussie employees say their workplace is emotionally healthy, and just 78% feel physically safe, compared to 81% in New Zealand.Rebecca Moulynox, General Manager of Great Place To Work, says workplace culture should be a top consideration for anyone relocating.“While financial incentives may be tempting, money doesn’t compensate for feeling undervalued or excluded,” she says.Rebecca Moulynox, General Manager of Great Place To Work.She encourages Kiwis to look for employers certified as a ‘Great Place To Work,’ as these typically perform 35% better than non-certified ones in Australia.“These organisations build cultures of trust, inclusion and growth—and that directly improves job satisfaction and retention,” says Moulynox.The takeaway for Coasties considering a move?Do your research.A positive workplace culture can make all the difference when settling into life across the Tasman.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

New Zealand’s first-ever Health Infrastructure Plan has been released, outlining a $20 billion strategy to renew and expand the country’s public health facilities.Health Minister Simeon Brown says the plan will address serious issues caused by ageing infrastructure.The average age of buildings across New Zealand’s 1,274 public health facilities is 47 years.Many require major repairs, seismic upgrades, or can’t support modern care.“This is a first for New Zealand – a single, long-term plan that lays out a clear pipeline for health infrastructure,” Minister Brown said.“It’s about ensuring New Zealanders continue to receive high-quality care in safe, modern facilities.”Rather than building mega-hospitals in one go, the Government will use a new approach called ‘Building Hospitals Better’.Facilities will be delivered in smaller, staged phases—allowing faster access to modern care, better cost control, and greater delivery certainty.The plan will be rolled out over three to four stages. It includes major builds and upgrades across the country, such as new emergency departments, acute services buildings, and inpatient units.It also supports a new South Auckland hospital, announced earlier this year, to cater to the region’s rapid growth.Alongside hospitals, the plan proposes ambulatory hubs in local communities—bringing services like radiology, oncology, and dialysis closer to patients while easing pressure on large hospitals.Each project will still require a business case and Cabinet funding approval.“This is a critical step forward,” Minister Brown said. “We now have a long-term path to modernise our healthcare infrastructure and deliver better health outcomes for New Zealanders.”Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

The New Zealand Defence Force and Customs Service have welcomed two new uncrewed surface vessels—Tahi and Rua—into service, marking a significant leap in coastal protection.The USVs were unveiled during a naming ceremony at Devonport Naval Base yesterday.Built by Australian company Ocius Technologies, the vessels are designed to enhance maritime surveillance and disrupt organised crime.This is the first time New Zealand has introduced this type of cutting-edge technology to help patrol its vast ocean borders.The USVs operate without crew on board and can remain at sea for extended periods, gathering real-time intelligence and improving rapid response capabilities.Their arrival follows a successful seven-month trial in 2024, where one USV was involved in seizing seven kilograms of cocaine hidden on a ship heading to Auckland.Air Marshal Tony Davies and Customs Comptroller Christine Stevenson formalised the acquisition in October with a Memorandum of Understanding between Defence and Customs.Customs Deputy Chief Executive Jamie Bamford said the vessels are a practical and cost-effective way to respond to increasing threats from drug-smuggling syndicates across the Pacific.“The USVs allow us to monitor in real time and act quickly. That’s a game-changer when it comes to securing our coastline,” he said.Royal New Zealand Navy's Commodore Shane Arndell praised the inter-agency teamwork that made the acquisition possible.“The addition of Tahi and Rua means we can maintain a persistent watch over New Zealand waters—and beyond,” he said.Coasties may not see these vessels up close, but their silent presence offshore adds another layer of protection for the nation’s maritime borders.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

A fallen tree has brought down power lines across Wade Bridge on Hibiscus Coast Highway, causing a full road closure and major traffic disruptions in Silverdale.The highway is currently closed between East Coast Road and Whangaparāoa Road.All traffic travelling to or from Orewa and Whangaparāoa must now use the Millwater or Orewa motorway interchanges.While the Silverdale interchange remains open, motorists are strongly advised to use Orewa and Millwater as alternative routes to SH1.Local diversions are in place via East Coast and Tavern roads, but traffic is already building across the area.Lines contractors are on site and working to clear the tree and restore power.Coasties are urged to avoid the Silverdale area altogether if possible, with congestion likely in all surrounding streets.Please continue to take care on the roads and expect delays as crews work to resolve the situation.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

Coasties might want to tie down the trampoline and check in on neighbours—Cyclone Tam is tracking south and bringing a rough mix of wind and rain with it.Strong easterly and northeasterly winds are already moving through Northland and Auckland.Gusts near the Harbour Bridge could reach 100 km/h today and may push beyond that on Thursday.The wind is strong enough to damage trees, fences, and powerlines, and could make travel tricky in exposed areas.Alongside the wind comes dangerous sea conditions.Large swells of 5 to 6 metres are forecast for coastal areas from North Cape down to Coromandel, with the highest risk around high tide.MetService is warning of the potential for coastal flooding and erosion, especially as extra wind-driven waves arrive tonight and into Thursday.The rain has already made itself known in Northland, which is under an Orange Heavy Rain Warning.Coromandel and the Western Bay of Plenty are now also under warning, with northern Gisborne and northwest Tasman added to the list from Thursday evening.Auckland is currently under a Watch for heavy rain.On top of all that, thunderstorms could develop on Thursday across Northland and northern Auckland.These could bring brief, intense bursts of rain and wind that make existing conditions worse.Although Cyclone Tam has been reclassified now that it’s moved over cooler waters, it’s still a powerful system.The change just means it’s no longer tropical—but the impacts remain serious.What this means for locals:You might see power cuts, rough surf, and fallen trees over the next couple of days.Travel could be disrupted, and coastal spots may experience flooding or damage—especially at high tide.It’s a good time to check your gutters, secure anything loose outside, and avoid the coast if you can.MetService is encouraging people to stay up to date through their Severe Weather page and to follow advice from local authorities.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

As Easter weekend approaches, the Labour Inspectorate is reminding Coasties and local businesses to brush up on Easter Sunday trading laws.Under the Shop Trading Hours Act 1990, Easter Sunday is one of only three and a half days a year when most shops must close. This year, that day falls on Sunday 20 April 2025.Only certain types of businesses can legally open—such as dairies, petrol stations, pharmacies, cafes, restaurants, and barbers. Farmers and craft markets may also operate, provided they meet specific conditions.Labour Inspectorate Head, Simon Humphries, says understanding these rules is key.“Some shops can trade because of what they sell, or because they’re in an area with a special exemption—like a tourist zone,” says Simon. “But for the majority, Easter Sunday means staying closed.”Local councils can set their own policies allowing shops in their region to open, but these must be registered with MBIE. The Hibiscus Coast is not currently listed as an exempt area.For employees, the law is clear: they have the right to refuse work on Easter Sunday without giving a reason—even in shops that are allowed to open. This includes non-trading roles like shelf-stocking.Employers must notify staff in writing between 4 and 8 weeks ahead of Easter if they are expected to work. If that notice hasn’t been given, the employee can’t be required to work.Simon says most employers follow the rules, but the Labour Inspectorate hopes to see consistent understanding across the board.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

A new partnership announced in Auckland this week aims to strengthen how agencies work together to support families facing serious risk from family violence.Minister for the Prevention of Family and Sexual Violence, Karen Chhour, confirmed the collaboration between government agency Te Puna Aonui, local iwi representatives, and community group Manawa Tītī.The initiative will:Develop a local system improvement plan.Test a new approach for managing high-risk family violence cases.Expand specialist outreach services for those most in need.“This new approach will enable coordinated support and collaboration to deliver timely and effective responses to people at high risk and with complex family violence needs,” said Minister Chhour.The announcement builds on the national Action Plan released in December, which focuses on improving multi-agency responses and helping those affected by violence to access the right support sooner.The new work stems from a recent family death review in the Auckland region and aims to improve safety through early intervention, better collaboration, and targeted support.A major focus is on specialist outreach roles—trained people who can work directly with families to identify risks and connect them with the right help.“Evidence shows that having proactive, skilled outreach workers can increase safety and reduce repeat harm,” Chhour said.The local tribal development arm will help deliver and test this approach alongside Manawa Tītī, ensuring the model meets the needs of the community.The goal is to reduce revictimisation, increase safety for children, and help families get to safety faster.“I acknowledge the importance of local leadership and innovation in improving the family violence system,” said Chhour. “This partnership is an important step forward.”Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

Coasties heading to the supermarket might’ve noticed their grocery bill creeping up again.Food prices rose 3.5 percent in the 12 months to March 2025, according to new figures from Stats NZ. That’s up from a 2.4 percent increase the month before. Most of the pressure is coming from two key areas—grocery staples, and meat, poultry, and fish.Grocery food prices jumped 5.1 percent, largely driven by higher prices for milk, butter, and chocolate. Butter saw the biggest leap, up a staggering 63.6 percent compared to this time last year. The average price for a 250g block of chocolate is now $5.99—$1.60 more than it was three years ago.Meat prices also played a role. Beef mince hit $19.96 per kilo in March, nearly $2 more expensive than in March 2024. Lamb leg and beef steak prices also climbed, pushing up the overall cost of the weekly meat shop.There was a small silver lining—fruit and vegetable prices dropped 2.7 percent over the year. That follows an even bigger drop in February, offering some relief for families trying to make fresh produce a regular part of their meals.The month of March also saw non-alcoholic beverage prices rise by 1.1 percent, thanks to higher prices for instant coffee and soft drinks.The cost of everyday essentials keeps climbing, especially for groceries and meat. Lower prices for fruit and vegetables help a little, but many locals will be feeling the pinch. With rent also edging up, households may need to keep a closer eye on spending as winter approaches.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]