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]

More than 5000 fines have been dished out to dog owners in Auckland for not registering their pets.Auckland Council has been cracking down on dog owners to register their dogs or be hit with an infringement fine of $300, or worse, face the court.In February, council sent out 5572 infringement notices to dog owners. If each fine was $300, it would total $1.67 million.Of these, 2542 were in south Auckland.Council's licensing and compliance general manager Robert Irvine said they had provided ample opportunities for dog owners to comply.However, it was time for those who continued to ignore their obligations, to face the consequences, he said."The time for leniency has passed - it's now a matter of fairness to those who do the right thing," Irvine said.Manukau City had 1779 unregistered dogs, Papakura had 467 and Pukekohe with 296.Waitākere had 1107 unregistered pets, North Shore had 969 and the old Auckland City Council area had 954.Figures provided by council was grouped by legacy councils.The initial round of infringement notices were issued 28 days ago, prompting many dog owners to settle their fines.A follow-up reminder letter was sent out on April 4 to make payment, before their debt was handed over to the court system for enforcement.As of April 11, 3813 fines remain unpaid.Council said the infringement campaign was effective in prompting compliance, while also helping ensure they had the most up to date information for dogs and dog owners."Auckland Council remains firm on ensuring compliance with dog registration requirements."Those who continue to disregard their obligations should be prepared for additional penalties."Registrations of pets help pay for the animal management services Auckland Council provides to get dogs off the streets, the prosecution of dog owners whose dogs have injured others, and the euthanising of these dogs.Registering a dog for the first time costs between $48 for working dogs, to $213 for a standard dog.All dogs in Auckland must be registered annually.Dogs must be registered before they turn three months old, and registered at an address where they spend most of their time.Microchipping a dog must follow within two months of registration.Regulatory and Safety Committee chair, councillor Josephine Bartley, said dog registration was not optional."This is the first time we've moved to last resort measures and issued infringement notices."Dog registration is a legal requirement designed to benefit both the community and pet owners."Last November, council sent out 22,929 pre-infringement reminder notices to owners of unregistered dogs, which resulted in a significant increase in registrations.- LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air.

Look Sharp Store has officially opened its doors in Silverdale Centre, right next to Chemist Warehouse.This marks the ninth Auckland location for the well-known variety retailer, which first launched in 2008. With stores offering nearly 20,000 different items, including party supplies, dress-up costumes, homeware, giftware, and licensed novelty goods. It’s the kind of place where you can find something fun and unexpected every time you visit.Alongside its regular product lines, Look Sharp brings in new stock regularly from both local and international suppliers. Look Sharp Store at Shop 5/40, Silverdale Centre.The team says they are committed to giving customers maximum value for their money, and they’ve built a loyal following across Auckland by doing just that.For locals on the Hibiscus Coast, the arrival of Look Sharp adds another handy option for everyday essentials and special occasions alike. Whether you’re planning a party, prepping for a school dress-up day, or simply browsing for a gift or home item, it’s a colourful and convenient addition to our neighbourhood shopping scene.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

The Government is proposing the biggest changes to New Zealand’s driver licensing system since 2011—and Coasties have a chance to have their say.From 14 April to 9 June, public consultation will be open on a proposal to remove the full licence driving test and reduce the number of eyesight tests required.Transport Minister Chris Bishop says the changes aim to make the process faster, fairer, and more affordable.Right now, getting a full car licence in New Zealand involves two practical tests and three eyesight checks. It can take years and cost at least $362.50 in fees.Under the proposal:The full licence practical test would be removed.Restricted drivers would move to a full licence after a clean driving record for 12–18 months.A zero-alcohol limit would apply to all learner and restricted drivers.Demerit thresholds would be halved for those on learner and restricted licences.Eyesight tests would only be required when first applying and again after age 45.A hazard perception test may also be introduced at the learner stage.Coasties aged under 25 would be able to get a full licence after 18 months on a clean restricted—just 12 months if they complete an approved advanced driving course.The changes are designed to improve access to jobs, education, and healthcare—especially for the one million adults in New Zealand who don’t yet hold a full licence.If approved, the changes would be implemented in July 2026.To have your say, visit the Ministry of Transport website from 14 April.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

Parents and children are in for a wet start to the school holidays as heavy rain and strong winds will batter parts of the country this week.MetService said a large weather system is looking to set up camp just west of the country on Tuesday and would bring heavy rain to the upper North Island.Meterologist Mmathapelo Makgabutlane, told Midday Report, Northland, Auckland and the Coromandel were likely to be the first hit, with the wild weather extending to Bay of Plenty and Gisborne as the week progressed.Parts of the South Island including Buller into Tasman and Nelson would also be affected, she said.For anyone looking to escape being stuck inside over Easter, the best place to be would be Southland, Makgabutlane said, which would be "a little more on the dry side".The South Island was experiencing a cold snap, she said, and much colder weather was expected on Tuesday, but Easter weekend would be on the warmer side."So towards the end of the week we can expect warmer nights and days."It's a bit of weather bingo at the moment".From Wednesday, Northland, Auckland and Coromandel will be under a strong wind watch and a heavy rain watch.MetService said the worst of the weather for the North Island could be expected on Thursday."With plenty of travellers on the road over the Easter Break, people should be extra cautious and keep a close eye on the forecast, particularly with the exodus from Auckland lining up with the most significant weather," MetService said.People were advised to clear gutters and drains and trim back branches on trees along with securing any loose objects.The windy and rainy conditions were expected to continue into next week.

North Aucklanders, including Coasties, are feeling more positive about life, according to new data from the 2024 Quality of Life survey.Released this month on Knowledge Auckland, the detailed regional report builds on topline results shared in February. It draws on responses from 2,524 Aucklanders and highlights how factors like housing, community connection, and transport affect wellbeing.For Coasties, the news is largely reassuring.Two-thirds of North Auckland respondents said their quality of life had improved in the past year — a figure that outpaced other regions across the city. About 75% rated their overall quality of life positively.Locally, housing satisfaction stood out. A strong 78% said their home suited their household’s needs, and 81% agreed their neighbourhood worked well for them — the highest scores across all of Auckland.Community connection also fared well. Just over 43% of North Aucklanders said they felt a sense of community, slightly higher than the city average.However, not everything is rosy.Coastal erosion remains a concern, with 57% of locals identifying it as a problem — one of the highest rates in the region. Traffic congestion also continues to impact daily life, with 81% seeing it as an issue.On a positive note, North Aucklanders reported some of the lowest levels of anger, exclusion, or intolerance based on personal characteristics. And when it comes to trust in institutions, they had slightly more faith in the justice system than other Aucklanders, though trust in Council decision-making remained low at 29%.The results are expected to guide future planning under the Councils Auckland Plan 2050 and the Thriving Communities Strategy.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

Digital platforms like Airbnb are reshaping the way cities function—especially when it comes to housing, tourism, and local economies. But their impact isn’t the same everywhere. Between 2019 and 2023, senior lecturer Dr Elham Bahmanteymouri investigated Airbnb’s effects across seven cities, including Auckland, Wellington, Queenstown, and Christchurch.Dr Bahmanteymouri teaches architecture and planning at the Auckland University School of Engineering and Design.Here’s what her research found:In Auckland, Airbnb is strongest in high-value neighbourhoods. It supports local businesses and gives property owners a useful side income. But it hasn’t had a major influence on house prices or community change.Wellington sees more negative effects. Listings cluster in business zones, not suburbs, but concerns remain around fair taxation and hotel industry impact.Queenstown shows the biggest shift. Locals have turned second homes into Airbnb rentals, fuelling a long-term rental shortage. Even during the Covid-19 slowdown, housing was tight.Christchurch has used Airbnb to help revive areas affected by the quakes. Short-term rentals have supported urban renewal and put idle properties to use—but again, fewer long-term rentals are the trade-off.Each city’s story is different. Regulations matter, as does how Airbnb is woven into existing planning.One key insight? Airbnb brings what Dr Bahmanteymouri calls “conceived” (measurable) and “lived” (day-to-day) effects. The financial upside is real—Deloitte pegged Auckland’s Airbnb economic impact at $200m in 2018—but so is the experience of neighbours seeing communities shift around them.So what does it mean for Coasties?For many Kiwi cities, Airbnb is more opportunity than threat. But it’s clear that good regulation and local insight are crucial. Done well, short-term rentals can support tourism, bring in income, and help cities bounce back after tough times—without pushing out long-term renters or changing the character of our neighbourhoods.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

A bold new tech plan is calling on Auckland to become a global innovation hub—and it’s sparking a timely question for our own backyard: why not on the Hibiscus Coast?​The "Time for Growth" report from the Auckland Tech Council outlines a roadmap to transform the region into a world-class centre for innovation.It calls for urgent investment and cross-sector collaboration, with early backing already coming from 2degrees, AWS, Deloitte, and others.​Simon Bridges, CEO of the Auckland Business Chamber, said the moment to act is now.“We made the case last year. Now we’ve got a real plan to get us there,” he said.​At the heart of the vision is the Newmarket Innovation Precinct—seen as a key anchor for tech development, particularly in AI and quantum.The report calls for private and public investment to turn Auckland into a talent magnet and tech powerhouse.​But as plans take shape, Coasties might be wondering: could some of that energy land here?​We’ve got space. We’ve got lifestyle appeal. And we’re already home to smart, ambitious people—many of whom commute daily into the city’s tech corridors.​With the right investment, the Hibiscus Coast could help solve some of the very problems this report highlights—like the need for affordable innovation space, talent attraction, and regional growth.​Key recommendations in the report include:Building an advanced innovation hub.​Creating regulatory sandboxes—starting with MedTech.​Launching global trade missions to spotlight Kiwi startups.​Forming an Employment Accord to close the digital skills gap.​Attracting new capital from venture funds and superannuation investors.​The message is clear: Auckland’s tech future depends on bold moves and broad participation. And there’s no reason the Hibiscus Coast can’t be part of that future.​With strong community support and plenty of room to grow, the Hibiscus Coast may be perfectly placed to host innovation hubs, tech incubators—or even a future-forward vision like DFIP: the Dairy Flat Innovation Park.It may only exist in our minds for now—but it’s an idea well worth backing.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

More adult children are living at home, according to the latest release of 2023 Census data by Stats NZ.The new figures, released this week, offer a detailed look at how families and households across New Zealand—and here on the Hibiscus Coast—are changing.In 2023, 34.5 percent of families with children had at least one adult child still living at home. That figure rises to 38.7 percent for families with a Pacific background.Stats NZ principal analyst Dr Rosemary Goodyear said the number of adult children living at home has risen sharply—up 27.3 percent since 2013.“This may reflect increased cost-of-living pressures,” said Goodyear.By comparison, the number of families with dependent children grew just 8.2 percent over the same period.Locally, this may reflect what many Coasties already know—young adults are staying home longer as rent and living expenses rise.The Census also found more male sole parents, up from 15.8 percent in 2013 to 17.8 percent in 2023. However, men were less likely to be caring for very young children.Just 8.9 percent of sole parents with a child under one were male. That number rises to over 22 percent for families with teens aged 13 to 17.In terms of household size and makeup, the data reveals New Zealand’s increasing ethnic diversity.Nearly 80 percent of households had at least one person of European ethnicity in 2023, but that proportion is falling. Meanwhile, the share of households with Māori, Pacific, and Asian ethnicities is rising.Households with Pacific peoples had the largest average size at 4.0 people, followed by Māori and Asian households at 3.3 people. European households averaged just 2.6 people and were more likely to be one- or two-person homes.These shifts paint a clearer picture of who we live with and how family life is evolving—important insights that help inform future planning in health, housing, and education.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

Auckland is becoming a testing ground for innovative geothermal technology that could help reduce household power bills—by tapping into the heat beneath our feet.Researchers from the University of Auckland, led by Associate Professor Sadiq J. Zarrouk, have started drilling a test well in Takanini to explore how underground warmth could help lower water heating costs for homes and businesses.Partnering with local drilling firm Drill Force NZ Ltd, the team has fitted the well with 15 temperature sensors. The data will be used to gauge how much heat can be harnessed from shallow depths—down to just 20 metres underground.The goal is to create a simple, low-cost heating system that uses natural ground warmth to pre-heat water. A pipe would run through a small well near the property, gently raising water temperature before it enters the home’s hot water system. Less electricity would be needed to finish the job—potentially saving households up to $20 each month.“This could change how we heat buildings,” Zarrouk says. “It’s clean, cost-effective, and easy to apply to both new and existing homes.”To make the system more efficient during peak usage, the team is testing a special material that stores and releases heat as needed. Machine learning tools are also being used to analyse the sensor data and guide the design of a second well, which is planned in the coming months.If successful, the technology could offer a new way for Coasties—and all Kiwis—to cut energy bills and reduce reliance on traditional power sources. The two wells will be monitored over the next year to better understand how ground temperature changes with the seasons.It’s early days, but the potential is big.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.Coastie Investors Urged To Stay CalmRead moreOrewa Reserve Feedback Now OpenRead moreSilverdale Festival Celebrates History and CommunityRead moreGulf Harbour Ferry Misses Morning RunRead moreOrewa Library Reopens Soon at Moana AvenueRead 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]