The NZ Transport Agency (NZTA) is inviting Coasties to share their views on a proposed speed limit increase on the Northern Gateway Toll Road and the Ara Tūhono – Pūhoi to Warkworth motorway.The proposal suggests raising the current 100km/h limit to 110km/h for these sections of Auckland’s State Highway 1 (SH1).The roads, which connect at the Johnstones Hill Tunnels and link Auckland with Northland, are considered vital for regional connectivity.While the current proposal excludes the Johnstones Hill Tunnels—where the speed limit remains at 80km/h due to specific safety concerns—NZTA believes the surrounding motorway sections can safely support higher speeds.Steve Mutton, NZTA Director Regional Relationships, highlighted the high safety standards of these motorway sections."These sections are designed with safety features like physical lane separation, two lanes in each direction, and a straight, wide alignment," said Mr. Mutton, indicating that these conditions make a higher speed limit feasible.The consultation period began on 3 September 2024 and will close on 1 October 2024.NZTA encourages locals to participate by submitting their feedback through the official feedback form on the NZTA website.Public input will be considered alongside technical and safety assessments before any final decisions are made.The speed limit on these roads will remain at 100km/h until the review process is complete.To submit your feedback, complete the online form

A report on the state of retirement villages highlights regional inequities and a critical shortage in the number of aged care units, despite a recent ramp-up in development.Property management firm JLL's latest Retirement Villages Market Review to the year ended December 2023, indicates there needed to be a significant increase in the rate of development to meet future demand."New Zealand's retirement village sector has shown remarkable growth over the past decade, reflecting the increasing demand from our ageing population," JLL head of research Gavin Read said."However, the findings of our review underscore the importance of strategic planning and development to ensure that future demand can be met."Development falls behind demandThe report indicates there were 470 retirement villages, encompassing 41,111 units and housing about 53,444 residents, but it was still not enough to meet demands of an ageing population.The industry was responding to demand, with an increase in the number of completed new units over the past year to 2298, compared with a five-year average growth of 1913 units and a 10-year average of 1696 units.Still, the report finds the current rate of development was falling short, with an additional 932 units needed to be built each year, for the next 25 years, for the industry to meet demand by 2048.According to Stats NZ, the rate of growth in the 75+ age bracket population was slowing, but increasing in absolute terms, with 112,624 people expected to want retirement accommodation by 2048, from the current number of 53,444 residents.Shortage of bedsAged Care Association chief executive Tracey Martin said there would continue to be a shortage of aged care beds in the short-, medium- and long-terms, without change to the current development model."This is particularly true for non-Big 6 operators, as they have little incentives to invest in their aged care beds, whether it is an upgrade, an extension to existing facilities, or a new build."The non-Big 6 operators accounted for 54.3 percent of retirement villages, followed by the Big-6 operators led by Ryman (8.5 percent), Metlifecare (7.9 percent), Bupa (7.7 percent), Oceania (7.4 percent), Summerset (7.4 percent) and Arvida (6.8 percent).On average, the Big-6's villages were 2.35 times larger (by units), though accounted for 46 percent of the total number of villages.Regional variationsRead said the analysis suggested a strategic opportunity existed for retirement village operators to scale-up, either by growing their existing villages or developing newer locations.There was a big difference in the number of facilities available throughout the country, with Bay of Plenty having the highest penetration rate at 18.4 percent and Southland the lowest at 6.6 percent.While the national average penetration rate was steady at 14 percent over the past three years, rates had declined in 8 out of 13 regions, including Auckland, Waikato, Bay of Plenty, Wellington, Tasman/Nelson/Marlborough, Otago, Southland and Gisborne.

Coasties can expect significant improvements in Auckland's transport infrastructure, with the government committing a record $8.4 billion through the 2024-27 National Land Transport Programme (NLTP). This investment is aimed at reducing travel times, improving public transport options, and ensuring that roads meet the high standards expected by the growing population.Transport Minister Simeon Brown highlighted that this initiative responds to Aucklanders’ concerns about previous transport policies. The new funding will support a range of projects, including the completion and opening of the City Rail Link in 2026, which is set to double the capacity of the rail network.Key road projects are also being prioritised, such as the SH1 Warkworth to Wellsford, Mill Road, and the East-West Link. Additional projects, including the planning of an extra Waitematā harbour connection and the completion of the Eastern Busway, are also in the pipeline.Brown noted that over $3.7 billion will be allocated to improving public transport services, which includes advancing the SH16 Northwest Rapid Transport corridor. The government is also focusing on fixing and preventing potholes on both state highways and local roads, with significant funds dedicated to resealing and rehabilitation efforts.The investment reflects the government’s commitment to supporting economic growth in Auckland by delivering reliable, efficient, and safe transport infrastructure.Full details of NLTP investments can be found at https://www.nzta.govt.nz/nltp 

As part of the new motorway construction project, NZTA has also provided developments in other parts of the project.Most notably, the Duck Creek Road project completed a successful concrete pour.This bridge will be one of New Zealand's longest single-span concrete bridges, with a length of 49 metres and a width of 12 metres.The bridge is being built using a top-down construction method; the piles and bridge deck are constructed first, and then the earth is excavated from beneath it.This was the first of five local bridges within the project, which connects to local roads across the project.Overall, the concrete pour required 27 trucks and took 10 hours to complete.Excluding the Weiti bridge, the local community can still expect the Duck Creek Road construction and other projects to maintain their progress towards their 2026 completion date.Additionally, the Wēiti River has seen a temporary channel re-opening.Vessels travelling upstream of the worksite will pass through a restricted navigable gap between the Eastern and Western sections of the temporary platform.Working hours are from 7 am to 6 pm on weekdays, while construction is limited to only 8 am to 4 pm on Saturdays.During these times, loads will regularly be lifted over the navigable gap.This will require the channel to be intermittently closed for short durations.Coasties who are river users, please follow all instructions from the project team or signage in the area.If possible, please avoid passage during work hours.Between November and December, a second temporary closure will be required.This will be shorter and will not affect the Christmas and New Year break.

Coasties are being alerted to a new safety concern as New Zealand Food Safety warns against consuming mini jelly cups containing konjac. The warning follows a recent seizure and destruction of thousands of similar products in Australia due to their choking hazard, especially for young children and the elderly.Deputy Director-General Vincent Arbuckle explained, “We have reviewed the New Zealand market and identified a limited number of imported mini jelly cups containing ‘konjac’.This additive prevents jelly from easily dissolving and increases the choking risk.” Konjac, also known as konjac powder, konnyaku, glucomannan, or yam flour, is used in these jelly products to create a firmer texture.These mini jelly cups, often packaged in bags or noodle cups, are approximately 45mm or less in width and length. The combination of the non-dissolving jelly and the method of consumption—sucking the jelly out of the container—creates a significant risk for choking, particularly among children and elderly individuals.While no injuries have been reported in New Zealand, the products have been linked to choking deaths overseas. “Our message to consumers is not to consume mini jelly cups containing konjac and to take extreme care with other mini jelly cups,” Arbuckle added.New Zealand Food Safety has already identified and removed a small quantity of these risky products from store shelves. The agency reassures the public that although the amount of affected product in New Zealand is minimal, they will continue to monitor the situation closely.The warning specifically targets mini jelly cups and does not extend to jelly products sold in pouches or other forms, which are designed to be chewed and thus pose a lesser risk.

A mussel gathering expedition at Muriwai Beach nearly turned into a rescue operation yesterday evening. At approximately 5.20 pm, police were alerted to an incident involving a man and two women who had become stranded while foraging for mussels.Senior Sergeant Garry Larsen of the Auckland Maritime Unit explained that the trio had ventured out to collect mussels during low tide, assuming they had ample time to return. However, they found themselves trapped in a small cave by the incoming tide. “The male made it back to the beach and raised the alarm,” said Larsen.The Police Eagle helicopter quickly assessed the situation and guided surf lifeguards to the stranded pair. The lifeguards successfully assisted the women back along the rocks to safety. “Thankfully, they were unharmed,” Larsen added. “This incident serves as a reminder of how rapidly conditions can change.”With spring upon us, warmer water and longer evenings can alter sea conditions swiftly. Larsen advised, “What might appear safe can become hazardous in a short period. We encourage everyone to have a safety plan when around the water.”Glenn Gowthorpe, Search and Rescue Coordinator at the Muriwai Volunteer Lifeguard Service, praised the team’s swift action. “The tide was rising, and daylight was fading fast. The area where they were standing would have been overwhelmed by the swell soon, leaving them with no way to escape.”Due to the location and time constraints, Gowthorpe’s team chose to navigate the rocks and surf rather than deploy a Rescue Water Craft. “Our squad did an outstanding job, retrieving the two women safely just as the sun was setting,” he said.

Coasties are urged to keep an eye out for 14-year-old Mikyla, who went missing from the Northcote area today. Mikyla was last spotted near Gladstone Road at 7:30 am, prompting concerns from police and her family about her wellbeing.Mikyla is described as having a small build, green eyes, and dark brown reddish hair. She was wearing black pants, a black jacket, and carrying a black bag when she was last seen.Police are appealing for any information on Mikyla's whereabouts and ask anyone with sightings to call 111, referencing job number P059835700. Alternatively, information can be shared with Police on 105 or Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.

Coasties, get ready for some changes at Auckland Council. Mayor Wayne Brown has just announced a reshuffle in the council’s committee structure to improve decision-making and better align with the city's new Long-term Plan (LTP). The adjustments come after feedback from councillors who felt that the current setup wasn't addressing certain issues effectively.Mayor Brown highlighted that these changes are intended to provide more focused oversight. "The new structure takes on board this feedback with some adjustments to existing committees, and the establishment of two smaller committees," he said. The new setup is designed to enhance efficiency and ensure that councillors have a more active role in managing the city's affairs.Key among the changes is the rebranding of the Transport and Infrastructure Committee, which will now be known as the Transport, Resilience, and Infrastructure Committee. This title change reflects the addition of physical resilience matters to the committee's responsibilities. Similarly, the Planning, Environment, and Parks Committee will be renamed the Policy and Planning Committee, continuing its role in overseeing Auckland’s development, policies, and environmental matters.In addition to the restructured committees, two new ones have been established. The Community Committee, chaired by Councillor Angela Dalton, will focus on community-related programmes and manage the full regional grants programme. The Parks Committee, chaired by Councillor Ken Turner, will handle regional oversight of parks and significant open spaces.The reshuffle also extends to the Auckland Transport (AT) Board. Councillor Maurice Williamson has been appointed to the board, replacing Councillor Andy Baker. Williamson, a former Minister of Transport and Minister of Local Government, brings extensive experience and will be instrumental as the council works to regain democratic control of AT. Councillor Baker, meanwhile, will lead the newly named Transport, Resilience, and Infrastructure Committee."Councillor Baker will do a good job leading the Transport Resilience and Infrastructure Committee, given his inside knowledge of how AT operates," Mayor Brown noted. He also acknowledged Councillor John Watson for his leadership of the Transport and Infrastructure Committee in the first half of the term.Councillor Chris Darby, who joined the AT Board in July 2023, will continue in his role. Mayor Brown expressed confidence in the new board members, saying they would ensure that the views of Aucklanders are well-represented.

Coasties could soon enjoy quicker journeys between Auckland and Northland, as a new proposal seeks to raise the speed limit on State Highway 1 from Orewa to Warkworth to 110km/h.The move has been welcomed by Transport Minister Simeon Brown, who highlights its potential to boost economic growth and productivity in the region."Boosting economic growth and productivity is a key part of the Government’s plan to rebuild the economy. This proposal supports that outcome by reducing travel times and increasing efficiency for travel north of Auckland," Mr Brown said.The proposed speed increase will apply to the Northern Gateway Toll Road and the recently opened Pūhoi to Warkworth motorway.Both roads were constructed to high safety standards and have delivered strong safety outcomes."Since the Northern Gateway Toll Road opened in 2009, and the Pūhoi to Warkworth motorway opened in 2023 under National’s Roads of National Significance programme, no one has died in a crash on these roads," Mr Brown noted.The Minister also emphasised that these roads play a vital role in connecting Auckland with Northland, contributing to the region's economic vitality by enabling the swift and safe movement of people and freight.Consultation on the proposed speed limit increase will open on 3 September 2024 and run until 1 October 2024.The Government invites feedback from the public during this period, considering the broader implications of such a change on the community and the transport network.

Coasties are increasingly concerned about the funding challenges facing New Zealand's health system. A recent analysis has highlighted the critical need for sustainable funding, moving away from crisis management to ensure long-term stability.New Zealand’s health spending has been consistently lower than that of comparable countries like Australia and Canada, according to OECD data. In 2020, New Zealand spent US$3,929 per capita on health, significantly less than Australia (US$5,802) and Canada (US$6,215). This underfunding has led to workforce shortages, longer waiting times, and increased pressure on healthcare workers.The analysis points out that while New Zealand's health system was designed to provide free and accessible services, current underfunding is threatening this goal. The original 1938 Social Security Act, which established the publicly-funded system, aimed to ensure that all citizens had access to health care. However, today, primary health care is unaffordable for around one in eight New Zealanders.The system’s two-tiered design, which allows for private practice alongside public services, exacerbates inequities in access. Those with higher incomes can access services more quickly through the private sector, leaving others to wait in the public system.Experts warn that a shift towards increased private funding could further strain the public system. International examples, like the United States' private insurance model, show that such systems often lead to higher costs and less equitable access. Similarly, social insurance models, while used in countries like Germany and the Netherlands, also face higher administrative costs.Addressing these challenges requires not only adequate funding but also investment in the people who keep the system running. Healthcare workers, already under pressure from the ongoing impacts of COVID-19, need more support to continue providing care to New Zealanders.As the conversation around health funding continues, the focus remains on preserving the publicly-funded system that has served New Zealand for over 80 years, ensuring that it remains accessible and fair for all.

A major methamphetamine importation operation was thwarted this week. Police intercepted a suspicious package at a North Shore address on Monday, uncovering over three kilograms of methamphetamine hidden inside.Waitematā East CIB quickly launched an investigation, with acting Detective Senior Sergeant Matt Bartlett leading the effort.“On further inspection, the parcel was stuffed full of a white substance—it was more than three kilograms of methamphetamine,” Bartlett stated.The investigation gained momentum when detectives noticed a man approaching the address, leading to a vehicle of interest being tracked on Wednesday. Officers executed a traffic stop on the Northern Motorway near Takapuna, arresting the driver, a 35-year-old UK national.A subsequent search of the man’s hotel room in Auckland's CBD revealed another three kilograms of methamphetamine, split into three parcels. Evidence of previous importations was also found in the room.The man now faces serious charges in the North Shore District Court for importing methamphetamine and possession for supply. Police are opposing his bail as investigations continue.“This operation has prevented approximately 60,000 doses of misery from reaching our communities,” Bartlett added.“Police will continue to dismantle these importation operations to prevent further harm on families.”

Auckland will soon see changes in alcohol regulation as the Auckland Council's new local alcohol policy comes into effect. After nearly a decade of legal battles, Auckland's councillors voted unanimously today to adopt the policy, which will begin its rollout on 16 September 2024.The policy introduces stricter rules for new off-licences in 23 suburbs and the central city, aiming to curb the number of alcohol outlets and reduce trading hours. From 16 September, any application to open an off-licence in these areas is likely to be declined unless a high threshold is met. Additional restrictions will take effect on 9 December, limiting alcohol sales in bottle shops and supermarkets across Tāmaki Makaurau to 9 pm, while bars and restaurants in the central city will be able to serve until 4 am.Councillor Josephine Bartley, Chair of the Regulatory and Safety Committee, expressed that this policy is a victory for Auckland communities, who have long sought a say in alcohol availability in their neighbourhoods. "We've been fighting for this on behalf of our communities for almost ten years. The reason local alcohol policies were brought in was to allow local people to have a say over where and when alcohol is available in their area," Bartley said.The policy also has the backing of Auckland Council’s partner regulatory agencies. Health New Zealand Te Whatu Ora Medical Officer of Health, Dr. June Leung, highlighted the importance of limiting alcohol availability to reduce harm, while Superintendent Scott Gemmell of the Police noted the significant role alcohol plays in crime and victimisation.This policy marks the end of an eight-year legal struggle between the council and major supermarkets, culminating in a Supreme Court decision in 2023 that dismissed the supermarkets’ appeals. The final approval was granted by the council’s governing body today, setting the stage for the new rules to take effect later this year.

Coasties will soon find it easier to verify their identity online, thanks to the Government’s expansion of the RealMe Identity Verification Service (RealMe). This initiative, announced by Minister of Internal Affairs Brooke van Velden, extends the service to seven additional private sector organisations, including financial services and online education providers.Ms van Velden highlighted the benefits of this expansion, stating, “This move will provide significant cost and time savings for people who need to identify themselves for a service, as well as helping the organisations to meet their compliance obligations, including anti-money laundering requirements.”One of the organisations set to benefit from this expansion is the Early Childhood Council (ECC), which has received approval to use RealMe. The ECC’s Chief Executive, Simon Laube, expressed his support for the initiative, noting its importance for early childhood providers. “ECE workers must be identity checked every three years as a minimum. RealMe provides a digital way of completing identity checks which are required for all workers by the Children’s Act. In some cases, workers do not have the primary and secondary hard-copy documents, so a digital alternative makes a lot of sense.”MyMahi, another beneficiary, has been working with the Department of Internal Affairs to streamline the tertiary study enrolment process. Matt Webb, MyMahi Partnership Director, shared that collaboration could reduce enrolment times from over a month to just ten minutes, a change he describes as “life-changing for students and their whānau.”RealMe is already used by authorised agencies such as registered banks and real estate agents. It allows New Zealanders to prove their identity online without needing to present physical documents in person. More than 1.5 million people have verified their identities through RealMe as of August 2024.For more information on how to sign up for RealMe, visit the official website. Businesses interested in adopting the service can contact RealMe for advisory and integration support.

Locals on the Hibiscus Coast are set to benefit from a new national radio network aimed at improving emergency response capabilities across New Zealand.The Coalition Government today announced the launch of the Public Safety Network’s Land Mobile Radio (LMR) system, a cutting-edge communication platform designed to provide secure and reliable radio communications for first responders.The initiative, which kicks off with a pilot phase in South Canterbury, involves the installation of eight digital radio transmission sites.This pilot will allow emergency services to test the new system under real-world conditions before rolling it out across the country.The complete network, set to be operational by 2026, will cover eleven regions, including major centres such as Canterbury, Wellington, and Auckland.Emergency Management and Recovery Minister Mark Mitchell underscored the significance of the new system, noting that it would enhance the safety and effectiveness of first responders such as Ambulance Officers, Fire Fighters, and Police Officers.“Reliable, secure-modern communications are vital to frontline responders. The new Land Mobile Radio network will help coordinate these services, for the safety, wellbeing and prosperity of all New Zealanders,” said Mitchell.Internal Affairs Minister Brooke van Velden echoed these sentiments, highlighting the operational efficiency and safety improvements the network would bring.“For the first time in New Zealand’s history, the four emergency services agencies will share the same radio network. This will enable greater interoperability between the organisations, bring improved efficiencies and safety for frontline staff – and ultimately, benefit the communities they serve,” she said.The LMR network, part of the $1.4 billion Public Safety Network project, will be fully encrypted, ensuring that only emergency services personnel can access communications.This security feature is expected to be a major advantage, eliminating the risk of outside disruption and enhancing the safety of both frontline staff and the information they handle.With the launch of this modern communication infrastructure, the Hibiscus Coast community can look forward to more efficient and secure emergency responses, contributing to the overall safety and wellbeing of locals.

The NZ Transport Agency has announced motorway closures for improvement works, delayed due to bad weather, to be completed by 6 September 2024, with closures starting at 9pm and finishing at 5am.The Northern Motorway (SH1) will experience closures on 4-5 September, affecting southbound lanes between Orewa and Silverdale off-ramps during these hours.Northbound lanes between Silverdale and Orewa off-ramps will also be closed on the same dates and times.Motorists are advised to follow signposted detours and plan their route accordingly to avoid disruptions during these overnight closures.

Locals on the Hibiscus Coast are being warned to be cautious of a new email scam circulating in the area.The email, which falsely claims to be from the Police and other justice agencies, threatens recipients with arrest unless they respond within 72 hours.The email alleges that authorities have found explicit illegal material on the recipient’s computer, pressuring them to reply or face legal action.Detective Senior Sergeant Greg Dalziel urges everyone to avoid responding to the email under any circumstances, as it is a scam.Although this specific version of the scam does not always mention money, similar fraudulent emails often involve issuing a ‘fine’ upon receiving a response.Police remind the public that legitimate government agencies will never contact individuals out of the blue asking for personal information such as passwords, credit card, or bank details.Reports of this scam have been received by the Police, and investigations are currently underway.Detective Senior Sergeant Dalziel advises everyone to trust their instincts when it comes to unsolicited emails: “If it doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t.”Anyone who has received this email is encouraged to report it.Reports can be made online via the Police website, referencing file number 240830/5842, or by forwarding the email to the Department of Internal Affairs at [email protected] more information on this and other ongoing scams, locals can visit the Consumer Protection NZ website or Netsafe for advice on staying safe online.

Coasties may be interested to know that the Government has taken a significant step toward securing New Zealand’s economic future.The Taxation (Annual Rates for 2024-25, Emergency Response, and Remedial Measures) Bill successfully passed its first reading, according to Revenue Minister Simon Watts.The Bill introduces several measures designed to bolster the economy, including a streamlined process for applying tax relief during emergency events such as earthquakes and floods.In the future, tax responses to these emergencies will be activated by Order in Council, expediting government action and providing quicker certainty for affected taxpayers.“A more rapid response means a more rapid recovery,” said Minister Watts, highlighting the importance of preparing the system before an emergency event occurs.In addition to emergency tax relief, the Bill also proposes changes aimed at helping young people secure their economic future.One of the key proposals is to allow individuals under 16 to enrol in KiwiSaver with the signature of just one guardian, simplifying the process for families where parents live apart.Other notable measures include easing the transfer of pension funds from selected countries, such as the UK, to New Zealand schemes.The Bill also seeks to enhance access to capital for eligible businesses by allowing retrospective registration for the approved issuer levy in specific situations.Additionally, the tech sector and start-ups will benefit from increased thresholds related to exempt employee share schemes.Minister Watts noted that while the economy shows signs of improvement, there is still work to be done.The Bill represents an ongoing effort to strengthen the economy and improve conditions for all New Zealanders.

Locals on the Hibiscus Coast should be aware of a recent case involving an Auckland man who was fined $15,000 for illegally trading fish.Timothy William Frost, 30, was convicted in the North Shore District Court after a Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) investigation uncovered his involvement in the illegal sale of recreationally caught seafood.The investigation revealed that Frost sold or attempted to sell high-end species like crayfish, pāua, and snapper, along with grey mullet and kahawai, on 35 occasions in 2022.These transactions involved approximately eight regular clients, with some paying up to $480 for 60kg of fish.The illegal sales generated hundreds of dollars for Frost, whose activities spanned from January to November last year.Fisheries New Zealand's regional manager for fisheries compliance, Phil Tasker, emphasised the seriousness of Frost's actions."Selling or attempting to sell recreationally caught seafood undermines the legitimate seafood market," Tasker stated.He urged locals to avoid purchasing seafood at prices that seem too good to be true, as it is likely to have been illegally harvested.The Ministry for Primary Industries encourages anyone who suspects illegal fishing activity to report it through their dedicated 0800 4 POACHER hotline.

New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) is forecasting a delay to the Wēiti River bridge component of the Penlink project.Seeking comment from NZTA, the reason provided was the “complex design spanning a large open waterway.”Although this new design has been seen regularly overseas, it is the first time it will be used in New Zealand.The “extradosed bridge design” was selected for its span length and its carbon benefits.This follows the previous Government Policy Statement on land transportation.Kaity Alexander, NZTA Media Manager for Northland and Auckland, noted that the length of the delay is uncertain.“We acknowledge that this delay will be disappointing to the Whangaparaoa Peninsula community, however, we can assure them that the team is working efficiently and is continuing to explore initiatives to improve the programme. We expect to have more certainty on the implications of this delay in the coming months.”The report notes the likely time for this update will be in October.Despite this, all other works are still forecasted for completion in the original period in late 2026.