Coasties running local shops or popping into Silverdale for errands might’ve heard chatter this week about a memo suggesting Police were backing off from retail crime. Turns out, that’s not the full story.Police Commissioner Richard Chambers has spoken out, saying retail crime remains a top priority. He called the memo—which outlined certain "thresholds" for follow-up—“confusing and unhelpful” and assured business owners that catching offenders is still the goal.“I’ve asked District Commanders to keep up the pressure on retail crime,” he said. “Officers are expected to act, regardless of thresholds.”Retail crime is on the rise across the country, and local shop owners know the cost isn’t just financial—it’s also about staff feeling safe and customers feeling welcome.Chambers pointed to areas like Tauranga and Gisborne, where dedicated beat teams and strong ties with retailers have made a real difference. Whether you run a boutique in Orewa or a dairy in Whangaparāoa, that kind of presence can be game-changing.Districts will still use discretion based on available resources, says Police Executive Director Rachael Bambery. But she noted that even closed cases aren’t off the books—new info often leads to fresh leads.So, if you're a business owner worried about what this means, the message is clear: Police say they’re still in your corner.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!St. Pierre's SushiPosition: Sushi Staff MemberLocation: SilverdaleNo experience required; great perks like free lunch, bonuses, and profit sharingFlexible shifts available; long-term team players preferredView the full listing & applyHibiscus Coast AppPosition: Local Sales ConsultantLocation: Red BeachFlexible, remote role with warm leads and strong local supportHelp Coasties businesses grow while earning commissionView the full listing & applyCareer Tip:Keep your LinkedIn profile up to date—even when you're not actively job hunting. Recruiters search by keywords, so a well-optimised profile with your latest skills, roles, and achievements keeps you visible to the right opportunities.Help a friend discover their next career move—share these opportunities with your network today!Need to hire fast? Get noticed locally.Reach thousands of Coasties for $97 + GST. Post your job today.Explore more local job openings on our jobs page.

If you’ve wandered past Henry Tayler Rise in Milldale lately, you might’ve noticed a newly fenced-off section just across from the existing shops.That’s where Broadway Property Group has officially kicked off stage two of its growing commercial precinct.“We’re in the early foundation stage now,” says Director Scott Kennedy.“Despite a few wet weeks, things are on track. We’re aiming for completion by early-to-mid 2026.”This second building will sit directly opposite the original—known as the Milldale Neighbourhood Centre—which is now a finalist in the 2025 Property Industry Awards.“We’re really proud of what it’s brought to the area,” says Scott. “It looks great, it’s trading well, and it’s become a real community asset.”The new building will mirror its award-nominated sibling in design, but feature a lighter exterior cladding for contrast.“They’ll match in layout but have their own identity,” Scott explains.There’ll be eight to ten ground-floor tenancies—depending on how businesses choose to combine the spaces.So far, about 45% of the site is already leased, with a real estate agency, laundromat, pharmacy, and chiropractor confirmed.Scott says they’re now actively looking for health and wellness operators—such as GP clinics, dentists, optometrists, Pilates and yoga studios, or boutique fitness providers.We aim to create a Neighbourhood Centre the Milldale community is proud of—something that delivers good-quality amenity now and into the future,” he says.As for what’s next, Scott says the team is focused on getting this stage right.“We’re committed to delivering a Neighbourhood Centre that works well for the area—both today and as Milldale continues to grow.For those living nearby, it’s another step toward a walkable, well-serviced village centre—designed to grow alongside the Milldale community.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

If you’re building a new home or working on a site around the Hibiscus Coast, here’s a timely heads-up from police: gas califonts are being stolen—and it’s happening more often than you’d think.Police say thefts of these easily removable units are on the rise, especially from houses still under construction. And with many new developments going up across the Coast, locals are being urged to stay alert.“These homes are often easy to access as they’re not yet properly secured,” says Senior Sergeant Roger Small, Area Prevention Manager. “Offenders are targeting califonts because they’re simple to take and easy to sell online.”Facebook Marketplace has become a common resale route for stolen califonts, making them a quick win for thieves. But there are steps you can take to make your site less appealing.Police recommend installing a security bracket—a small, low-cost addition that makes it much harder to remove the unit. These brackets are available from most hardware stores and can be fitted at the back of the califont.Another tip? Install your califont as late as possible in the build process, when the property is likely to be occupied or more secure.CCTV can also be a great deterrent and tool for follow-up if something does go missing.For local builders and Coasties managing projects at home, this warning hits close to home. With construction booming in places like Milldale, Red Beach and Silverdale, unsecured sites can quickly become easy targets.Here’s how to protect your property:Record the serial number of your califont (a quick photo will do)Be wary of online deals that seem too cheap to be legitReport any suspicious behaviour—if in doubt, call 111Use Crime Stoppers (0800 555 111) to report anonymouslyLet’s keep our local sites safe, one smart step at a time.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

A product sold on Bed Bath and Beyond’s website earlier this year has raised safety concerns—though there’s no need to panic, says the retailer.Between 1 February and 7 April 2025, the “bb&b Sleep Kids Microplush Sherpa Bath Robe” in Silver, Navy, and Pink was sold online with an incorrect fire hazard warning label shown in the product listing. The robe itself, however, has the correct label sewn in.Bed Bath and Beyond is reassuring customers that the products are safe to use, but they’re recommending that parents double-check the warning label directly on the product to confirm.The company has created a dedicated page—bedbathandbeyond.co.nz/product-recalls—for those who want more information.If any Coasties are feeling unsure about the risk, the robe can be returned to the local Silverdale Bed Bath and Beyond store for a full refund.Why does this matter to locals? For parents on the Hibiscus Coast, knowing a robe marketed for kids had the wrong fire warning displayed online might be unsettling—especially in homes where little ones often curl up in these kinds of cosy garments. While there's no issue with the robe itself, it’s a good reminder to always check the product label, not just what’s listed online.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

Cirque du Soleil’s hit show Corteo is adding seven extra performances to its Auckland season this October.Tickets have been selling fast, and this extension gives Coasties even more chances to experience the magic.This is the first time Corteo has come to New Zealand, and Auckland is the only stop.The show opens at Spark Arena on 30 October, with 13 performances now confirmed. No further shows will be added.Created by Daniele Finzi Pasca, Corteo blends acrobatics, comedy and theatre in a story imagined by a clown.It’s joyful, poetic, and full of surprises.The action plays out on a central stage with the audience on both sides.It’s a setup that makes you feel part of the show.The scale is huge.There are over 50 artists on stage, eight musicians, six comedians, and costumes that take eight hours to iron each day.The show has travelled to 30 countries and been seen by more than 12 million people.For locals, it’s a rare chance to see a world-class spectacle just down the motorway.Families, theatre lovers, and anyone after something unforgettable will find it well worth the trip.Tickets go on sale to Club Cirque members from 9am on Thursday 22 May.TEG Live, Spark Arena and Ticketmaster presales begin Tuesday 27 May at 10am.General sales open Thursday 29 May at 10am via cirquedusoleil.com/corteoThe season is strictly limited.Once these 13 shows are done, that’s it.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

If your usual Mighty Ape parcel hasn’t turned up quite as fast lately, or the website’s felt a bit clunky—don’t worry, you’re not alone.The popular Silverdale-based online retailer hit a few snags earlier this year after a major website upgrade in February.It was meant to streamline things, but like any big tech change, there were teething issues—affecting everything from stock levels to how smoothly the site ran.Between January and April, revenue dropped 22% compared to the same time last year.Profits also took a dive, turning from a small gain into a $1.3 million loss.But the crew’s been hard at work behind the scenes, and signs of recovery are already starting to show.Their new Mighty Ape Marketplace, which lets third-party sellers list items on the site, is gaining momentum and helping lift sales again.They’re also adjusting stock levels to make sure popular items don’t run dry—and there’s not too much sitting around either.All going well, the company expects to be back in the black by the next financial year.So if your next order’s a tad slower than usual, hang in there.It’s great to know that one of our own, right here in Silverdale, is working through the bumps and planning a strong comeback.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

If you're heading north from Orewa from Monday 26 May, you might notice the signs have changed—State Highway 1’s Northern Gateway Toll Road will now have a new speed limit of 110km/h.The new limit applies to a 5.5km stretch between north of Orewa and just before the Johnstones Hill Tunnels, as confirmed by Transport Minister Chris Bishop this week. It follows a public consultation late last year that drew over 7,900 submissions, with 93% supporting the increase—including a strong 91% who were firmly in favour.Bishop said the change aligns with the Government’s focus on economic growth and productivity, highlighting the road’s role in moving both people and freight efficiently. With 11,000 vehicles travelling the route each day—including a sizable 9% of heavy vehicles—it’s a key link between Auckland and Northland.“The Northern Gateway Toll Road is a crucial corridor for road users, freight, and tourists,” said Bishop. “It’s been built to high safety standards, and NZTA has deemed it safe for the higher limit.”For Coasties heading north, this means quicker trips through one of the most well-used parts of the network. The road features two lanes in each direction, median separation, and a mostly straight layout—factors that contributed to the NZ Transport Agency’s decision to greenlight the higher speed.The speed through the Johnstones Hill Tunnels themselves will remain at 80km/h due to their enclosed nature and unique safety risks. There are no plans to change that section.But here’s the odd part—strangely, this speed increase does not apply to the newly built section of SH1 further north. Despite being brand new and built to modern standards, that stretch remains at 100km/h, raising eyebrows for locals who travel the route regularly.Police will enforce the new 110km/h limit just like any other, and patrols may be visible at any time.For Coasties commuting north or heading off for a long weekend, the change might shave off a few minutes—but more than that, it signals that our part of SH1 is being prioritised for smarter, faster travel.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

If your phone suddenly blares an alarm this evening, don’t panic—it’s just a test. Between 6pm and 7pm, the National Emergency Management Agency will be running a nationwide trial of New Zealand’s Emergency Mobile Alert system.These alerts are designed to warn locals of serious threats like natural disasters or public health risks. They’re issued only by authorised agencies like Police, Fire and Emergency, and the Ministry of Health. Sunday’s alert is just a drill to make sure the system works as intended.Most phones purchased in New Zealand since 2017 should receive the alert, as long as they’ve got mobile reception and their software is up to date. There’s no app to download and no subscription needed—the alert is broadcast automatically to capable devices in the affected area.If you’ve got kids, pets, or elderly family members who might find the loud tone distressing, it’s a good idea to switch phones off or put them in flight mode for the hour. Silent mode won’t stop the sound on all devices.Whether it’s a tsunami warning or a public health risk, these alerts help get important information out fast.If you don’t receive the alert and think your phone should have, check that it supports cell broadcasts and has the latest software installed. Some imported models may not be compatible.It’s just a test—but it could save lives when it counts.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 Success: Just Bliss BeautyRead moreOrewa Library's Fresh New Look InsideRead moreHibiscus Coast App Hits Major MilestoneRead moreFourth Arrest in Gulf Harbour CaseRead moreMillwater Agent Wins Top AwardRead moreStay Connected, Stay Informed. Get the latest updates, stories, and events from around the Hibiscus Coast—right at your fingertips.Download the Hibiscus Coast App now for instant access to local news and stay ahead of the curve—whenever, wherever. Don’t miss out on the stories that matter most to you!Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

Blues hooker Ricky Riccitelli will bid farewell to the club at the end of the 2025 Super Rugby Pacific season, signing a new contract to play in France.Since joining the Blues in 2022, Riccitelli has cemented himself as a driving force in the forward pack. Known for his grit, relentless work rate, and reliable lineout throws, he quickly became a fan favourite. He earned the starting No. 2 jersey in 2023 and was instrumental in the team’s 2024 championship-winning campaign, starting 14 games and featuring in the Grand Final at Eden Park.Riccitelli, who first tasted Super Rugby success with the Hurricanes in 2016, also shone on the provincial stage with Taranaki. His wealth of experience and professionalism have left a mark in Auckland.“Ricky is the type of player every team needs,” said Blues GM of Rugby Murray Williams. “He’s hard-working, resilient and a true professional as a leader within our forward group. While we’re sad to see him go, he leaves with our support and gratitude.”While Riccitelli’s departure will be felt across Blues territory, it’s also a moment for Coast rugby fans to reflect on how close to home talent like this plays. Many Coasties travel in to Eden Park to support the Blues, and for local young hookers and forwards especially, Riccitelli’s story is one to follow. His journey shows what’s possible when you pair grit with consistency.The move to France marks a new chapter for Riccitelli, but his impact on the New Zealand game—and the Blues forward pack—won’t be forgotten anytime soon.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

Heads-up, Coasties—telecom works are kicking off soon between Orewa and Millwater, and they’ll be sticking around until October.Starting June 2025, EonFibre will be installing a 4.6km underground telecommunications cable on behalf of One NZ.The cable will run from Orewa Beach all the way to the CDC Data Centre on Highgate Parkway in Silverdale—right past familiar spots in Red Beach and Millwater.If you’ve ever driven past that secure high-tech facility near Mitre 10 MEGA and wondered what it does, it’s part of a major national digital infrastructure hub.Read more: Public Cloud Data Centres Certified in SilverdaleAnd this new cable will help boost its capacity, improving connectivity for both government and commercial services.The installation will be rolled out in sections, with both day (8:00–17:00) and night works (19:00–05:00) planned—especially along busier roads.Expect some lane closures, parking restrictions, and noise during the works.Roads affected include parts of Hibiscus Coast Highway, Millwater Parkway, Bonair Crescent, Jardin Court, Colonial Drive, Fernier Greens, and the Wainui Road Roundabout.Crews will be using diggers, directional drills and hydro vacs to install the cable and new manholes every 200 metres or so.Traffic management, signage, and pedestrian safety measures will be in place to keep things running smoothly.This isn’t just a routine job—it’s a significant upgrade to the Coast’s digital backbone.Once completed, the new link will support faster, more reliable services for local homes, schools, businesses, and even critical cloud-based tools.If your street is part of the route, you’ll receive another letter closer to your specific start date.In the meantime, locals with questions can contact the EonFibre team directly.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

Last week the Blues brought their trademark energy to Silverdale as part of their annual Club Blitz, reconnecting with the community that’s long supported their Super Rugby journey.Blues players visited five North Harbour clubs — Massey, Kumeu, Takapuna, Marist, and our very own Silverdale — turning regular evening trainings into unforgettable sessions for junior and youth players.The visits included casual walk-throughs, meet-and-greets, signing sessions, and a friendly game of touch.It wasn’t just about footy — it was about making memories, inspiring the next generation, and showing kids that they’re part of something bigger.Blues CEO Andrew Hore summed it up nicely: “These communities play a huge role in shaping the future of the game. Our players love getting out into the community — it brings energy to the team and reminds us of the bigger picture.”For local families, having professional players run drills with their kids at Silverdale Rugby Club means more than just fun.It’s about belonging. It’s a chance for young Coasties to see themselves in the game’s future — and for parents, a proud moment watching their club shine on the Blues' map.Next Saturday, the Blues will look to bounce back from last week’s loss to Moana Pasifika as they take on the Waratahs at Eden Park.Kick-off is at 7:05.Let’s hope the boost of Coast-side energy helps lift them to victory.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

Oyster farmers in the Warkworth area, fear their businesses won't survive the year.They say the dumping of untreated raw sewage into the Mahurangi Harbour has led to frequent restrictions on their ability to harvest, and they're urging Watercare and Auckland Council to invest in waste treatment solutions that are effective and sustainable.Tim Aitken bought Mahurangi Oysters in 2020. Since then, he's invested his life savings in the business, including moving to a flip farm to make it more sustainable."In 2020 we had 20 odd days closure. And so far in 2025, we've been closed for 64 days which is 100 percent of our harvesting period so far," he said.They had been looking at exporting but now can't guarantee supply because of the closures.Aitken said the brand he'd spent the last five years developing was now by association with the harbour, "shot"."It's not just I can't sell oysters, our brand is Mahurangi oysters," he said.Aitken was frustrated and upset. He said it now looked like they could be closed the whole year which he feared the business would not survive."I hate to say it but we might not have a business by the end of the year."Meanwhile Tom Walters has been running Matakana Oysters for over 20 years."There's a few of us that are just very small oyster farmers. I'm not a big oyster farmer. We're just 'ma and pa' guys."Walters was also doubtful of the business' future."We've had many crises over the years but none have compared to this," he said."It's devastating. I'm looking at losing everything."It had also made him rethink New Zealand's reputation as a 'clean and green' country.Walters said it was an issue driven by infrastructure failing to keep up with the growth of Warkworth.He said such issues were popping up all around New Zealand, where growth was being allowed at the expense of the environment."There shouldn't be growth until the bloody infrastructure is in place. You don't build backwards. And that's what's happening everywhere."Walters said temporary measures designed to help have yet to be implemented and a more longterm solution will come too late.In a statement, Watercare chief strategy and planning officer Priyan Perera said the Auckland Council-controlled water services provide was developing a $450 million programme to transform wastewater services in the Warkworth area, including a new pipeline which will help reduce wet weather overflows to the Mahurangi River.The pipeline was not expected to be completed until 2028.While the new pipeline would make the biggest difference in reducing wet weather overflows to the river, Watercare was working to reduce the frequency of overflows in the shorter term.Perera said Watercare is in regular contact with Mahurangi Harbour oyster farmers about work being undertaken to improve the situation, including alerting them to the event of any overflows."We sympathise with the Mahurangi Harbour oyster farmers and are committed to improving the situation for them.Watercare will be meeting with the farmers next week to provide them with an update.

If you're heading into town next week, keep an eye out for lane restrictions on State Highway 1. From Monday 26 to Thursday 30 May, maintenance crews will be working between the Silverdale interchange and Oteha Valley Road between 11am and 7pm each day. This work is part of ongoing slip repairs, with the full project expected to run through until June 2025.Southbound lanes will remain open, but some lane closures will be in place, so delays are likely. Drivers are asked to slow down and follow all traffic management instructions to keep everyone safe. You may also notice increased noise levels during the day as the crew carries out the repairs.Planning ahead and allowing a little extra travel time will help make the journey smoother for everyone.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

Trade Me’s had a bit of a glow-up—and Coasties might spot the changes next time they hop on to buy, sell, or just have a nosey.The company is rolling out a fresh new look across its website and apps. Think updated logos, a modernised homepage, and a cleaner, simpler design. It’s all about making things feel consistent, trustworthy, and easy to use—without losing the feel-good familiarity that’s made Trade Me a Kiwi staple for years.Behind the scenes, Trade Me’s team has been digging into how New Zealanders interact with the platform, with the goal of creating a more unified experience. Some bits—like the app icons—are already live, while other tweaks will roll out over the coming weeks.So, what’s different?A sleeker logo and design now appear across the siteThe app icons have had a refresh on both iOS and AndroidDesktop users will now find the “Log out” button down the bottom of the page“Browse” is now called “Categories” andThe “Stores” section has moved under “Marketplace”For Coasties that rely on Trade Me to hunt for bargains, shift furniture, or offload kids' gear, the refresh is a welcome change. It keeps the platform feeling fresh and easy to navigate without changing the way we use it.It’s not a dramatic overhaul—just a tidy-up that makes things feel smoother, easier, and more trustworthy when you’re browsing or buying.And with so many local buyers and sellers using the site daily, these small tweaks are likely to make a big difference across the Coast too.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

Auckland FC are one game away from making history—and the Hibiscus Coast will be watching.After a gutsy 1–0 win away in Melbourne thanks to a brilliant Logan Rogerson header in the 66th minute, Auckland FC now return home for the all-important second leg of the A-League Men’s Semi Final.This Saturday 24 at Go Media Stadium will be electric, with more than 28,000 fans expected to pack the stands.It’s the club’s first-ever home semi-final, and with the home crowd behind them, Auckland are in prime position to book their spot in the Grand Final.It’s been a dream debut season in the league, capped off by claiming the Premier Plate.Now, just one match stands between the club and a shot at championship glory.Whether you’re heading to the stadium or tuning in live on Sky Sport, this is one not to miss.Gates open at 4:30, and the atmosphere promises to be huge from the first whistle.For Coasties who’ve followed Auckland’s rise, this is more than just a match—it’s a moment of pride.A local team playing fearless football and taking it to the best in the league.And if they win? It’s off to the Grand Final.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

Looking for plans? Explore events happening soon on the Hibiscus Coast and start planning your next activity!Vinyl Record SaleSat 24 MayMore detailsHibiscus Coast Painters Group ExhibitionSun May 25More detailsDrag Bingo & TriviaSun 25 MayMore detailsWant to see more events?Explore what’s happening in our community on the Hibiscus Coast App.Have an event to share?Promote it for FREE - click here

If you’ve ever looked for property around Millwater or Milldale, you’ve likely come across Bob Qin’s name.Now, he’s got another reason to stand out—taking home one of the highest honours at the 2025 Barfoot & Thompson Awards.Bob Qin, a standout salesperson from Barfoot & Thompson’s Millwater branch, has been named Residential Salesperson of the Year for 2025, winning the prestigious Val Barfoot Cup.This award is one of the top honours handed out at the annual event, which celebrates excellence across Auckland, Northland, and Bay of Plenty regions.Barfoot & Thompson, New Zealand’s largest family-owned real estate company, hosts these awards to recognise outstanding performance, leadership, and commitment to service.Bob Qin.According to CEO Chris Dobbie, the awards highlight individuals who not only achieve exceptional sales results but also lead with integrity, build strong client relationships, and lift those around them.Bob wasn’t the only local to shine.Bob Qin and his team from the Millwater branch were also named the top-selling team—a recognition that speaks volumes about their dedication and local expertise.With Barfoot & Thompson selling around four in every ten homes across Auckland and managing more than 20,000 rental properties, this recognition places Bob among the best of the best.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.