Rental affordability for seniors must become a national priority, says Dr Claire Dale, a University of Auckland researcher.Her call follows troubling data: in 2021, 18% of Kiwis aged over 65 were living in poor-quality or overcrowded homes.By 2047, 40% of older New Zealanders are expected to be renters—more than double today’s figure.Currently, the average superannuation of $522 per week doesn’t even cover the median rent for a small home, which sits at $550.“The numbers don’t add up,” says Dr Dale.She’s calling for urgent reform of the accommodation supplement, a government payment for low-income renters.Only 5% of those receiving superannuation currently qualify, largely due to a strict and outdated asset cap.The cap hasn’t changed in 30 years—$8,100 for a single person means even a modest savings buffer disqualifies someone from support.\Dr Dale proposes lifting that limit to $16,000 and softening the cut-off to allow partial entitlements above the threshold.She’s also calling for local councils to once again access the government’s income-related rent subsidy.This would help councils offer affordable, stable housing to older residents—something they historically did well, but can no longer afford to continue without support.New Zealand has the lowest public housing rate in the OECD, and councils currently lack the funding to fill that gap.With retirement policy under review this year, and submissions open until 30 June, Claire Dale says now is the time for practical, affordable changes that would make a real difference to seniors—especially those renting.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

The Ministry of Business, Innovation & Employment (MBIE) is urging Coasties to check their homes for a recalled bathroom heater model that could pose a serious fire risk.The warning centres on Serene S2068 heaters, which were recalled last year due to a known defect that can cause fires.Despite the compulsory recall and a prohibition on use, around 28,000 of these heaters are still believed to be in homes across the country.MBIE is now stepping up efforts to raise awareness ahead of the colder months.“Don’t let the next fire be in your home,” says MBIE spokesman Ian Caplin.“If you find a Serene S2068 Heater, turn it off, don’t use it, and contact the supplier it was bought from.”So far, around 16,000 heaters have been safely removed or returned, thanks to the work of electricians and suppliers.However, with two fires already linked to these heaters over the Christmas period, officials fear the risk will grow as the weather cools and heaters are used more frequently.MBIE has been working alongside Master Electricians and the Insurance Council to share recall information.Caplin warns that home insurance may not cover fire damage from these heaters if the recall advice hasn’t been followed.The recall applies specifically to the Serene S2068 model. Coasties are encouraged to check bathrooms in their homes, rentals, and even holiday stays.For details on how to identify and return a recalled heater, visit: consumerprotection.govt.nz – Serene Heater RecallKnow something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

Coasties who love Ōrewa Beach are being invited to help shape its future.From now until Friday 9 May 2025, Auckland Council is asking for community feedback on four concept designs for Ōrewa Reserve.Each option aims to restore the dunes and improve beach access—while also protecting the coastline from rising sea levels and erosion.This follows the ongoing seawall project at the northern end of the beach, where a shared path is being built between Marine View and Kohu Street. The council says without the seawall, high tide would make walking access impossible in that area.But building seawalls is expensive and complex—the Ōrewa project required a ruling from the Environment Court. So, council staff are now looking at more natural, long-term approaches for other parts of the beach.Restoring dunes at Ōrewa Reserve would keep dry sand available year-round and create a buffer against erosion.However, it would mean relocating some existing facilities at the reserve.Locals can view the four concept designs online, all of which include:Dune restorationImproved beach accessNew beachfront toilets and changing rooms north of the future surf clubCouncil wants to know:Which concept option you preferHow often you visit the reserveWhich features matter most to youAny other thoughts on the plansTo have your say, fill in the online feedback form before 9 May 2025.Your responses will be shared with the Hibiscus and Bays Local Board to help guide the next steps.This is a chance to influence how one of our most-loved local spaces is protected and enjoyed into the future.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

New Zealand is set to double its defence spending over the next eight years, with a $12 billion investment announced this week to modernise and strengthen the New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF).$9 billion in new funding includedPlan covers 2025–2028, with 15-year outlookFocus on combat capability, tech innovation, and personnel supportPrime Minister Christopher Luxon says rising global tensions have pushed New Zealand to step up its role internationally—and that the country’s current defence investment has fallen behind.“This blueprint has been designed with a 15-year horizon but deliberately focuses on critical investments needed in the next four years,” Luxon said. “This is the floor, not the ceiling, of funding for our Defence Force.”The Defence Capability Plan will raise NZ’s defence spend from just over 1% of GDP to over 2% by 2032. It includes enhancements to strike capabilities, maritime surveillance, and cyber security, as well as upgrades to housing, digital infrastructure, and intelligence services.Defence Minister Judith Collins acknowledged the sacrifices made by NZDF personnel, including extended domestic deployments during Covid, which led to the loss of many mid-career staff.“This plan allows us to rebuild that hollowed-out middle,” she said. “It gets our NZDF out of the intensive care unit and growing where we need it to.”Key features of the plan include:New long-range remotely piloted aircraftReplacement of the ageing Boeing 757 fleetUncrewed surveillance vessels and upgraded anti-tank systemsFrigate and maritime helicopter upgradesModernised accommodation and base infrastructureTech and logistics upgrades to improve resilienceThe Government will review the Defence Capability Plan every two years to ensure it remains responsive to global and regional developments.With renewed investment and long-term opportunities ahead, now could be a great time for Coasties to consider a future career in the New Zealand Defence Force.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

The latest Auckland Council data paints a mixed picture of the region’s economy, with steady gains in housing activity but a dip in consumer confidence.Median house prices for February 2025 held steady at NZD 1.01 million.This matches 2016 levels (adjusted for inflation) and is 5% lower than a year ago.House sales have risen for five straight months, with 22,027 homes sold in the year to February—up 20% from the 2023 low.Rental costs in Auckland average $698 per week in January.This is higher than recent months but close to where they were one and two years ago.Rents outside Auckland reached a record high of $ 652, driven by seasonal demand.Building consent numbers are climbing slightly.In the year to February 2025, 13,773 new homes were consented—still 37% below the 2022 peak but tracking just above mid-2024 levels.Non-residential consents, however, continued to fall, with values down 24% year-on-year.Meanwhile, Auckland seaports saw a 4% drop in import values compared to last year, although volumes remain well above the Covid-era low.Imports totalled NZD 29.9 billion for the year to February 2025.Consumer confidence has dipped.The Westpac McDermott Miller Index measured 91.3 for the March quarter—mid-range for the post-Covid period, but lower than any year from 2009 to 2019.Coasties keeping an eye on the wider economy may find comfort in the housing sector’s quiet rebound, though the mood on the ground remains cautious.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

Fresh Coast Jobs for Fresh Starts! Check out this week’s top picks for local roles—and share with a mate who’s looking!The ​Hibiscus Coast App​Position: Sales Role – Help Coast Businesses GrowLocation: Hibiscus Coast (Remote/Flexible)Commission-only role earning $2K–$6K+/month, with flexible hours and warm leadsSell digital advertising on a trusted local platform with full training and supportView the full listing & applyBunningsPosition: Customer Service Team MemberLocation: SilverdaleTeam discounts, paid parental leave, and 100+ staff perks across top brandsSupportive team environment with career growth across retail, trade, and leadershipView the full listing & applyCareer Tip of the weekDon’t just list responsibilities on your CV—focus on achievements. Use numbers, outcomes, or timeframes to show the impact you made in each role.Help a friend discover their next career move—share these opportunities with your network today!Need to hire fast? Get noticed locally.Reach thousands on the Coast for $97 + GST.Post your job today.Explore more local job openings on our jobs page.

A man has died after being found unresponsive in the water near Red Beach early Monday morning.At 7:27am, emergency services received a report of an overturned outrigger off the coast. Police responded quickly, deploying ground staff and the Eagle helicopter to search the area.The man was located unresponsive in the water and brought to shore by members of the public, who moved him to nearby rocks. He was then airlifted to Stanmore Bay by the Auckland Westpac Rescue Helicopter.Sadly, despite their efforts, the man was pronounced dead.Police are now working to recover the outrigger and are carrying out enquiries on behalf of the Coroner to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

More than half of Kiwi workers say they’d choose a different career if they had the chance, according to new research from employment marketplace SEEK. The findings, released in the Evolving Working Life Report, show 54% of New Zealanders are experiencing some form of career regret—particularly among Millennials and Gen Z.The top reason? Not earning enough. Half of those surveyed cited financial dissatisfaction, followed by changing interests (36%) and unfulfilling work (24%). Despite this, only 6% are actively exploring a career change, with most held back by money concerns and fears that it’s too late to switch paths.Nearly 3 in 5 Kiwis believe they’ll be working longer than expected—many into their 70s. Coasties might not be surprised, with rising living costs and shifting retirement expectations affecting families right here on the Hibiscus Coast.SEEK’s Rob Clark says the data paints a clear picture: “Money is weighing heavily on the minds of New Zealand workers… but a career change is possible at any stage of life.”Even so, changing careers is easier said than done. Among those feeling stuck, 40% worry it’s too late, while a third say they lack the qualifications to move on. One in four admitted they don’t know where to begin.Still, it’s not all bleak. A majority feel hopeful (59%) and optimistic (52%) about the future, with many believing their current roles will remain relevant in the next decade.SEEK’s career coach Leah Lambart encourages a flexible mindset: “If you’re going to be working for longer, it’s even more important to keep an open mind about evolving your career.”The research, conducted by Nature between October 2024 and February 2025, surveyed 1,045 working-age New Zealanders across industries and locations.Whether you’re on the Coast or across the country, the message is clear—there’s still time to reshape your working life.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

Building on the Hibiscus Coast could soon get simpler and cheaper, thanks to sweeping changes announced by the Government this week.Building and Construction Minister Chris Penk revealed a suite of reforms designed to reduce delays, lower construction costs, and support tradies in getting the job done.Key changes include:Faster land acquisition: Landowners who agree to sell early for public projects—like roads or hospitals—could receive up to NZD$100,000 in incentive payments.Bigger granny flats without consent: The maximum size for granny flats that can be built without a resource consent is increasing from 60 to 70 square metres.Crackdown on cowboy builders: New waterproofing licences for bathroom work, stronger disciplinary powers, and a better complaints process aim to improve trust in the trade.Easier access to building materials: A new law will allow faster approval for high-quality overseas products. Up to 250,000 new building products are expected to enter the market this year.The Government expects the changes will lead to around 13,000 more granny flats being built nationwide over the next decade—offering more affordable, flexible housing options for families.These updates are part of a broader plan to simplify the building consent system and help ease housing pressures nationwide.

With all the headlines about US tariffs and market swings, many Coasties might be wondering what to do about their KiwiSaver or share investments.According to advice from investing platform Sharesies, the best move right now might be to stay calm and focus on the long term.Recent falls in the S&P 500—a key measure of the US share market—have been triggered by fears around global trade tensions. The Trump administration’s announcement of new tariffs has sparked concerns about inflation and the possibility of a trade war, both of which tend to spook markets.While it can be unsettling to see portfolios or KiwiSaver balances dip, Sharesies says this kind of volatility isn’t unusual. Since the 1980s, the S&P 500 has experienced annual corrections of more than 5%, yet its average annual return since 1928 still sits above 10%.For those feeling nervous, now’s a good time to review your investment strategy. Are you diversified across industries and countries? Are you invested in line with your time horizon—especially if you're nearing retirement or a first home deposit?Sharesies also reminds investors that KiwiSaver is designed for the long haul. Market dips are part of the journey, especially for those in growth or aggressive funds.If your investment plan made sense before the downturn, it may still make sense now. Continuing with strategies like dollar-cost averaging—investing consistently over time—can help balance out the highs and lows.And importantly, you should consider seeking independent legal, financial, or tax advice to ensure any investment decisions are right for your personal goals and situation.

New Zealand Food Safety is backing a nationwide recall of Pams brand Afghan Oat Baked Bars, which may contain fragments of metal due to a manufacturing fault.The recall applies to bars with a Best Before date of 16/01/2026 and sold at major supermarkets including Four Square, Gilmours, New World, Pak’nSave, Social Supermarket, and Trents. Coasties who may have purchased these bars are advised not to eat them.“If you have any Pams brand Afghan Oat Baked Bars with that date, return them to the place of purchase for a refund. If that’s not possible, throw them out,” says Vincent Arbuckle, New Zealand Food Safety’s deputy director-general.The issue arose after metal from production equipment may have made its way into some bars. Fortunately, no injuries have been reported.Affected products have already been pulled from store shelves and none were exported.New Zealand Food Safety is working with Foodstuffs Own Brands Limited to investigate the incident and help prevent future cases.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

Before someone picks up the phone, sends an enquiry, or walks through your door, they’ve already formed an opinion.Not based on a conversation with you—but on what they’ve seen online.Your website, your social media, your blog, your reviews.In short: your content.And whether you realise it or not, that content is speaking on your behalf.It’s telling a story about your business.The question is—what story is it telling?Trust doesn’t start with a smile at the counter or a friendly phone call.These days, it starts much earlier.It starts the moment someone Googles your name, spots you on the Hibiscus Coast App, or clicks through from a Facebook post.That’s where the relationship begins—and your content is doing the talking.Good content says, “We know what we’re doing.”It shows that you’ve thought about your customer, anticipated their questions, and made it easy for them to understand what you offer.That kind of clarity builds confidence. And confidence leads to action.You don’t need to write essays or produce slick videos.But the content you do put out—even something simple like a service page or FAQ—should feel clear, considered, and genuinely helpful.That’s what earns trust.It shows you care about making life easier for your customers.And when people feel understood, they’re far more likely to trust—and buy.For local businesses, content is also one of the best ways to stand out.You may not have the biggest budget, but if your content feels more genuine, more useful, and more human than the next option, you’ll often win—especially when customers are choosing between businesses that seem similar on the surface.And here’s the real beauty: content keeps working in the background.While you’re busy serving customers, it’s quietly doing its job—reassuring, informing, and nudging people closer to saying yes.Your content is often the first (and sometimes only) chance to show people who you are.But it’s not just about showing up—it’s about showing up well.Thoughtful, well-crafted content earns trust. The rest just adds noise.So make it count.Start with quality.Add clarity and warmth.And let your content reflect the real-world experience your business is known for.

A major new housing development is under government review, and it could bring big changes to the western edge of Ōrewa.Looking west from Grand View Drive, it used to be all open views.But that outlook could soon be replaced by rooftops stretching as far as the eye can see to the west of the motorway.The proposed Delmore development would see six large rural blocks near Upper Orewa Road transformed into a new residential community.Developer Vineway submitted the plan on 3 May 2024 through the Government’s fast-track consenting process, which is designed to accelerate housing and infrastructure projects.If approved, the development would be rolled out in five stages and include around 1,250 homes, along with parks, riverside walkways, and a new State Highway 1 interchange connecting Grand Drive with the Wainui area.Photo: Ministry for the EnvironmentThe land, currently rough pasture and former farmland, is zoned as Future Urban under Auckland’s Unitary Plan—so urban development was always a possibility.Still, for many locals, the sheer scale of the project is a lot to take in.What was once quiet, green space could soon be a bustling new suburbAt this stage, construction hasn’t started.The application is with an expert panel for consideration, and locals will be keeping a close eye on what happens next.If it does go ahead, the impact will reach well beyond the building sites.Thousands of new residents will mean new pressures—on roads, schools, and services.A new secondary school will be needed nearby.More local jobs will be essential too, and attracting larger employers—perhaps even a mini-Silicon Valley with tech and AI leading the way—could help support the growing population.For Ōrewa and the wider Hibiscus Coast, this isn’t just a development—it’s a shift that could reshape the community for decades to come.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

A major change in how medicines are approved in New Zealand is on the horizon, with Cabinet backing a faster, overseas-recognition approach that could cut wait times to under 30 days.The shift is part of the Medicines Amendment Bill and is expected to be in place by early 2026.Under the new system, if a medicine is already approved in two recognised countries—such as Australia, the United States, or the United Kingdom—it can be greenlit more quickly here.Associate Health Minister David Seymour said the move prioritises patient access and reflects a smarter, faster way to ensure Kiwis get the treatments they need.“Faster access to medicines has always been a priority of mine,” Seymour said. “For many New Zealanders, pharmaceuticals are life or death.”The new pathway, nicknamed the “Rule of Two,” relies on approvals from trusted jurisdictions including the EU, Canada, Switzerland, and Singapore.Medsafe, New Zealand’s regulatory body, already works closely with these countries.Seymour likened the approach to how New Zealand approves vehicles.“New cars are acceptable if they meet one of several foreign standards. We can apply the same principle to medicines,” he said.One real-world example: a new asthma treatment that could have been approved by late 2022 using this system was only cleared in May 2024—a 16-month delay Seymour says could’ve been avoided.The changes are part of a wider Government push to improve access to medicine, including the largest-ever Pharmac budget ($6.294 billion over four years) and process changes to streamline funding and regulatory approvals.Locals on the Hibiscus Coast and across New Zealand can expect a public Select Committee process in the near future, where the proposed rules will be open for feedback.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

Welcome to The Week That Was—your go-to recap of the most important news, stories, and updates for the Hibiscus Coast community.Gulf Harbour Homicide: Decision on Continued Name SuppressionRead moreTsunami Siren Test at Orewa BeachRead moreGary Brown, Victoria Short May RunRead moreBeach Sprint Champs Hit OrewaRead morePenlink Bridge Beams InstalledRead moreStay ahead of the curve—get the latest Hibiscus Coast news delivered directly to your phone.Download the Hibiscus Coast App today and never miss a story!Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

A bold new redesign of Takapuna Golf Course could see the popular 18-hole facility transformed into a world-class, multi-use public space—if a new proposal gains Auckland Council support this week.The alternative plan, led by international golf architect Kristine Kerr, combines recreational, ecological and stormwater management functions in a single design.It aims to retain the nearly century-old course while addressing the area’s flooding issues in a future-focused and community-friendly way.The proposal includes over 20 hectares of native planting, 1.8 kilometres of walking and cycling paths that could link to the future Northern Cycleway, and the capacity to hold more than 550 million litres of floodwater during extreme weather events.Auckland Council had initially proposed replacing the course with a permanent wetland.However, Kerr’s design—supported by specialist engineers—demonstrates that flood storage objectives can be met using a “dry basin” model.Kristine Kerr.This approach allows stormwater to be temporarily stored on the course and released gradually, without removing the community’s sporting and green space asset.Kerr, who has worked on championship-level golf courses in over 12 countries, says cities overseas have already adopted this dual-purpose model.“Thousands more people could enjoy the space—whether walking, cycling or playing golf—while it helps prevent flooding,” she said.Ryan Pitkethley.Ryan Pitkethley, director of engineering at CivilPlan, confirmed that modelling shows the course can manage the required stormwater volumes.“We believe this model doesn’t just meet the Council’s flood goals—it enhances them by adding ecological and recreational benefits,” he said.Stephen Dowd.Takapuna Golf spokesperson Stephen Dowd said the course welcomes over 260,000 visitors annually and provides affordable access for players of all ages.“Golf is growing fast, especially among juniors. Closing this course would be a major loss for Auckland,” he said.The new design will be presented to the Council’s Transport, Resilience and Infrastructure Committee this week.

Maintenance work on State Highway 1 (SH1) will bring daytime lane restrictions to the southbound lanes between the Silverdale interchange and Oteha Valley Road from Sunday 6 April to Thursday 10 April, the NZ Transport Agency has advised.The work will take place between 11am and 7pm daily, with crews focused on slip remediation and other essential maintenance tasks.While southbound traffic will remain open, Coasties travelling to or from Auckland should expect slower journeys and follow all traffic management signs and instructions.The full maintenance programme is expected to continue until June 2025, with updates to come as works progress along the route.Locals may also notice an increase in noise in areas near the highway during the work period.NZTA reminds motorists to drive with care, watch their speed through the work zone, and allow for possible delays.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

The Blues will welcome back several key players for their Super Rugby Pacific clash with the Hurricanes at Eden Park this Saturday, in what promises to be a blockbuster double-header for Auckland fans.The men’s team returns from a bye and gears up for the second half of their season with fresh legs and renewed energy, hoping to keep momentum building as they eye a strong finish on the points table. They’ll take the field after the nib Blues women face Hurricanes Poua in a crucial Aupiki match, with home final hosting rights on the line.Coach Vern Cotter confirmed that senior players Beauden Barrett and Patrick Tuipulotu are expected to start, provided they get through full-contact training this week. Joining them are Kurt Eklund, Ricky Riccitelli, AJ Lam, Anton Segner and Adrian Choat—all cleared to play after time out with injury.“The group is putting in the hard work to produce a quality performance,” said Cotter. “Hopefully they will come through a big week of effort on the training field.”While the returning players offer much-needed depth, the Blues have been dealt a blow with the season-ending loss of All Black prop Ofa Tu’ungafasi, who requires neck surgery. Sam Darry is also sidelined for the season, with Zarn Sullivan, Taufa Funaki and Reon Paul still recovering.Kick-off is set for Saturday evening at Eden Park, where fans can enjoy a full evening of top-tier rugby. With the return of local stars and plenty on the line, it’s shaping up to be a must-watch for Coasties and Blues fans alike.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

Auckland Transport will increase parking prices by 50 cents an hour from 14 April to cover the rising costs of keeping the city moving.This change applies to all AT-managed street and carpark spaces, excluding select areas like Devonport and Westgate where recent adjustments have already been made.Daily price caps for AT carparks will also rise.John Strawbridge, AT’s Group Manager of Parking Services, said the increase reflects a 13 percent rise in operational costs, including more requests from Aucklanders to address issues like blocked driveways.“We’re seeing around 30 percent more service requests,” he said.“We’re also investing in compliance tools to ensure fair use of parking.”The annual review considers factors such as demand, economic conditions, and socio-economic impacts.Mr Strawbridge said the goal is to ensure that users—not ratepayers—cover a portion of the costs.The last increase was in August 2023, when fees rose by NZD$1 per hour.For Coasties commuting into Auckland, this small increase means parking costs will be slightly higher in town and suburban centres, particularly if you're heading in for work or events.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]