Locals are being urged to stay vigilant as new figures reveal that New Zealanders lost $194 million to bank scams last year. The data, provided by major banks to Consumer Protection for Fraud Awareness Week, shows a slight decrease in the amount lost compared to the previous year, but the ongoing threat remains significant as scammers continue to adapt and develop more complex strategies.During this week, Consumer Protection is highlighting the importance of recognising the signs of phishing, imposter, and online shopping scams. These scams are among the most common and can have a serious impact on individuals and families.Consumer Protection stresses the importance of trusting your instincts when approached for money or personal information. “If you receive an unexpected request for money or sensitive details, it’s vital to stop the conversation immediately,” the agency advises. “Don’t hesitate to delete suspicious messages or hang up on calls that seem out of the blue.”If you believe you’ve been targeted by a scam, Consumer Protection recommends taking these steps:Cease all communication with the scammerStop any further paymentsContact your bank or the relevant service providerReport the incident to Cert NZWith scammers continually evolving their methods, it’s crucial for locals to stay informed and take action at the first sign of a scam. Fraud Awareness Week serves as a timely reminder to always be cautious and act swiftly to protect yourself and your family.

The Ministry of Health is urging action to combat antimicrobial resistance (AMR) during World Antimicrobial Resistance Awareness Week, held from 18 to 24 November. AMR, which occurs when bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites develop resistance to drugs like antibiotics, has been labelled a top global health threat by the United Nations.Globally, AMR was directly responsible for an estimated 1.27 million deaths in 2019 and contributed to nearly 5 million fatalities. In New Zealand, resistant strains are already challenging health services and treatment options. Ministry of Health Chief Science Advisor Dr Ian Town warned that AMR poses significant risks to medical treatments, including cancer therapies, organ transplants, and surgeries, due to the potential for untreatable infections."Resistant strains of bacteria and viruses are already being detected in New Zealand, directly affecting the health of New Zealanders and making infections harder to treat," Dr Town said.Examples include outbreaks of vancomycin-resistant enterococcus (VRE), first detected in 2022 in the Central North Island region, and the increasing presence of carbapenemase-producing organisms (CPO). These bacteria can cause life-threatening conditions like sepsis and are resistant to all commonly used antibiotics, including last-resort treatments.The Ministry is promoting careful use of antimicrobials and preventative measures to slow the spread of resistance. Recommendations include practising hand hygiene, staying up to date with vaccinations, and following health professionals' advice on antibiotic use. Overuse or misuse of antibiotics, particularly for viral illnesses like colds and flu, contributes to the development of resistance.Additional advice includes safe food preparation, covering wounds, and returning unused antibiotics to pharmacies for safe disposal. Taking these steps, the Ministry says, will help preserve the effectiveness of vital medicines for future generations.

Aiming to foster safer online spaces, University of Auckland researchers have unveiled a new tool, Serenity. This innovative app works like a spell checker for toxic language, nudging users to reconsider harmful messages before sending them.Cyberbullying remains a major concern for families and young people, with traditional methods often failing to address its evolving nature. Dr Johnny Chan from the University’s Business School explains how Serenity offers a proactive solution.“This aligns with prior research suggesting that nudges can effectively reduce unwanted behaviours,” Chan says.Serenity uses Google’s Perspective API to analyse messages as they are typed. If a message’s toxicity score surpasses a user-defined threshold, the app flags it and encourages the sender to pause and rethink. To enhance its flexibility, the tool also allows users to create custom lists of words or phrases they find offensive or triggering.“As a father, I know my kids will soon be stepping into online spaces, and we need tools that give young people and families a safer experience,” says Chan.For parents, Serenity includes a “guardian account” feature. This allows them to monitor toxicity scores without viewing message content, empowering early intervention while respecting privacy.Adaptable across platforms such as social media, online gaming, and forums, Serenity aims to mitigate harm before it occurs. Dr Johnny Chan is a lecturer in information systems and operations management.Chan notes that the app addresses the limitations of traditional lexicon-based systems by offering real-time detection and intervention.“Cyberbullying is a huge issue for young people and their parents, and despite our awareness of the harm it causes, we don’t have many tools to combat it,” Chan says.

Fewer deliveries every week, a reduced number of postal outlets, and no longer having mail deliveries to letterboxes at front gates are just some of the proposed changes for New Zealand Post.This would mean posties would eventually stop delivering mail to individual letterboxes and instead leave mail in cluster or community boxes.The Postal Workers Union is not impressed."We are already hearing that people are very unhappy to find out - even though they don't get much mail - they are pretty concerned about where they are going to get it," union president John Maynard told The Detail."All new subdivisions, the developers are going to have to put in nests of boxes, so people won't get delivery to their houses. I already have photos of these nests of post-boxes getting broken into. And people often talk about insecurity."I have also spoken to Grey Power people, who are very unhappy. It's quite a cultural thing - we want a letter box at our front gate and that's where we expect mail to get delivered to."The union said the consultation process, launched by the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment, was selective, misleading, complicated, and inaccessible to many of those most affected by the proposed changes.It wanted the proposal to be suspended, rewritten and then extended to at least three months "to better provide for a consultation process with a more well-informed and accessible participation by residents".But MBIE communications infrastructure and trade general manager James Hartley told The Detail he was happy with the process in place."We think that the consultation is clear, fair and accessible to the public. It's always a challenge in any consultation to get to every part of the community... and [we] will be relying on key community groups like rural women, Postal Workers Union and others to help represent community views."And six weeks is an adequate time period, and we have no plans to change that."MBIE is consulting on five proposed changes:Reducing minimum delivery frequency in urban areas to two days a week, and in rural areas to three days per week.Reducing the minimum number of postal outlets from 880 to 500, and possibly down to 400 over time.Allowing NZ Post to extend its network by delivering to cluster and community boxes for new addresses.Allowing NZ Post to convert existing delivery points into communal points at a rate of up to 5 percent per year.Reducing the time until the next review to three years, from five."The government wants to know what people think about the proposed changes and how it could impact them if introduced," Hartley said."I really encourage people to give feedback."The final day for feedback is 10 December.The Detail requested an interview with NZ Post but was declined.

The Government has announced a comprehensive review of the electricity market to assess its ability to deliver reliable and affordable energy to households and businesses.This review comes in response to challenges highlighted during the past winter’s power crisis.Energy Minister Simeon Brown and Associate Energy Minister Shane Jones emphasised the importance of ensuring the market supports economic growth while meeting future electricity demands.“New Zealand’s economic growth and prosperity rely on Kiwi households and businesses having access to affordable and secure electricity at internationally competitive prices,” said Mr Brown.The review will focus on areas such as investment in infrastructure, market competition, and effective regulation.Key objectives include fostering timely investment in electricity generation and infrastructure, achieving efficiency, and maintaining competitive wholesale and retail markets to manage costs effectively.Mr Jones noted that with increasing electrification across sectors, demand for electricity is expected to grow significantly."We have already made significant progress in enabling investment in renewable electricity generation," he said, adding that effective regulation would play a critical role in maintaining market confidence.The terms of reference released for the review outline four key principles for an effective electricity market:Incentivising investment to meet current and future demand.Achieving efficiency across production and allocation.Ensuring competitiveness to keep costs manageable.Regulating markets where competition is not feasible.The Government recently introduced the first Government Policy Statement on electricity to clarify its role in the sector.The upcoming review will complement ongoing efforts to strengthen energy security and manage electricity prices.The review is set to commence early next year.

Locals across the Hibiscus Coast and New Zealand are witnessing an upward shift in rental prices as October’s figures indicate a national median rent increase.According to Trade Me Property’s latest Rental Price Index, the median weekly rent reached $635 in October, marking a $5 (0.8%) rise from September’s eight-month low.Among regions, Bay of Plenty now stands as the country’s most expensive place to rent, surpassing Auckland with a median weekly rent of $680, $5 higher than the previous month.Other regions also saw significant increases: Marlborough’s median rent climbed $35 (6.4%) to $585, Taranaki rose $10 (1.7%) to $610, and Waikato increased $10 (1.7%) to $590 per week.In contrast, Northland experienced the largest monthly decline, with a $40 (6.1%) drop to $580.Trade Me Property Customer Director Gavin Lloyd highlighted that this rental surge aligns with expected seasonal trends.“It’s a seasonal trend we tend to see at this time. What is a little more unusual is increases at a time when demand is soft and supply is sky-rocketing,” he said.High Supply and Lower DemandOctober also brought a noticeable shift in supply and demand dynamics, with rental listings rising by 6.0% month-on-month, reaching a 10-year high.In contrast, demand for rentals is now at a four-year low.Mr Lloyd noted that these market conditions may benefit renters by offering greater choice and potentially stabilising rents in the months ahead.Regions such as Gisborne and Marlborough are driving this high supply, with year-on-year listing increases of 321% and 136%, respectively.While most regions saw declining demand, Gisborne (+106%) and Marlborough (+39%) bucked this trend.Large Rentals See Price DecreasesIn major cities like Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch, larger rental properties with five or more bedrooms have seen a decline in median weekly rents.Auckland and Wellington recorded drops exceeding 8%, while Christchurch saw a smaller decline of 2.9%.As living costs continue to climb, many renters are sharing accommodations or seeking alternative ways to reduce expenses.“Big rental properties, with their relatively bigger rents, simply don’t have the same appeal in the current market,” Mr Lloyd explained.

Air New Zealand is giving thousands of customers a unique welcome at airports nationwide with free groceries, celebrating its new Everyday Rewards loyalty partnership.This surprise initiative coincides with the launch of a partnership between Air New Zealand and Woolworths' Everyday Rewards, allowing Airpoints™ members to convert their Everyday Rewards points into Airpoints Dollars™. The promotion began on 2 December and lets members turn 2,000 Everyday Rewards points into 15 Airpoints Dollars, creating a fresh link between daily grocery shopping and future travel plans.Air New Zealand CEO Greg Foran expressed excitement about expanding Airpoints’ offerings. “We’re always looking for new and exciting ways to enhance our loyalty offering,” Foran said. “This partnership means our 4.7 million Airpoints members can get a little closer to that dream getaway, even while doing their grocery run.”For today only, customers traveling through Air New Zealand’s domestic network will find a bag of groceries waiting at baggage claim. Some lucky passengers may even receive extra Airpoints Dollars tucked inside their grocery bag. To further extend the gesture, Air New Zealand is matching the value of each giveaway bag with donations to local food banks across New Zealand.Everyday Rewards New Zealand Director Mark Burger noted that the partnership aligns well with Kiwi preferences. “Our research shows that Kiwi customers value rewards that bring them closer to booking that next trip,” said Burger. “By partnering with Air New Zealand, we’re thrilled to offer members a valuable pathway to convert Airpoints Dollars and put them towards their next journey.”Everyday Rewards joins over 40 other Airpoints partners, including Mitre 10 and New World, enhancing options for members to earn Airpoints Dollars from everyday purchases.

Auckland cat lovers would need to de-sex and micro-chip their pets if the council opts for stricter rules under a proposed environmental plan.Residents are being asked for their views as Auckland Council looks at ways to reduce the number of feral cats preying on native wildlife.Carl Morgan, Regional Conservation Manager for the Royal Forest and Bird Protection Society, says cats should be de-sexed, micro-chipped, and possibly kept at home to protect native wildlife from extinction.Morgan says feral cats kill millions of birds each year.This highlights the urgent need for Aucklanders to help shape a 10-year regional plan for cat management to safeguard native wildlife, he says."They're [Auckland Council] consulting on pretty much every option possible."One of them is the de-sexing of cats or sterilisation; that's essentially a rule mandating all domestic cats be de-sexed," he says."This would significantly reduce the feral and stray population by preventing inter-household breeding and stopping domesticated cats from breeding with feral cats."This will stop creating unwanted kittens everywhere, which will grow up to be predators impacting our native wildlife."Another key proposal is that all cats and pets should be microchipped and registered."If cats go missing or are found by others, they can be taken to vet centres or the SPCA, where they can be identified and re-homed, or their owners contacted."While traps for stray and feral cats are being rolled out, domestic cats sometimes get caught."These traps are usually set in areas of high biodiversity value where there are many native birds, and people are conducting predator control work for possums, rats, stoats, and other predators."If a cat's microchipped, it can be scanned and released."Photo: DOC / SuppliedThe Far North is also set to debate changes in animal regulations, with a proposed bylaw that would require all cats over the age of four months to be both microchipped and desexed.The new rules, if adopted, would be the first animal regulations in the district since 2019, when the previous bylaw lapsed.As a result, pet management has become an increasing challenge, especially for cats, which are not covered by any current regulations.While the Far North bylaw would regulate desexing, there would be no limit on the number of cats per household.The bylaw also proposes restrictions on other animals, including bans on roosters and pigs in urban areas.Morgan says Auckland's controversial proposal, under consultation, which wouldn't take effect until 2030, is keeping cats indoors."It would be quite an adjustment for many cat owners," he says."This would be the first time in the country that such a rule might be introduced. Cats would have to be kept within their owners' properties, likely indoors, which would be a significant change to how cats are currently kept.Keeping cats indoors prevents them from raiding bird nesting areas, Morgan says."All it takes is for one night your cat to climb up that tree, eat the chicks, or disturb the nest, and it's all over."Dr Imogen Bassett, head of Natural Environment Specialist Services at Auckland Council, says they are focused on understanding Aucklanders' views on managing cats."We know there is significant concern about the impacts of both owned and unowned cats on wildlife," she says."We also recognise that responsible pet ownership, such as de-sexing, can help protect the wildlife. It's a win-win."Bassett says the council has partnered with the SPCA to offer free microchipping, registration, and de-sexing services for cats in areas with vulnerable species, like dotterels.'"We know cost is a barrier to de-sexing, so we're exploring options for additional support in at-risk communities or a regulatory approach to encourage responsible ownership."Unowned cats may hunt more due to a lack of food, but even well-fed owned cats still hunt. With more owned cats than unowned, the combined effect on native wildlife is significant. Responsible ownership is key to reducing this impact."In Auckland, 35 per cent of households own cats, resulting in an estimated 320,000 of them in the region."We're a nation of cat lovers and they bring lots of wonderful things to our lives. … we also know that they do have a real impact on our native wildlife that aren't found anywhere else in the world."Councillor Richard Hills, of the Policy and Planning Committee, is urging Aucklanders to have their say in the 'Let's Protect Our Environment' consultation, which closes on 8 December."The consultation will ask what we can do to continue to protect what Aucklanders value, like our native species and ecosystems, Māori cultural values, rural primary production, and the safety and wellbeing of our communities and natural habitats."For more information on the consultation: akhaveyoursay.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/protect-our-environmentLDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air.

Hibiscus Coast locals who own Canyon e-bikes are advised to inspect their battery casings for cracks following a recent safety advisory.Canyon Bicycles GmbH has issued a warning after finding that certain battery models may pose a fire risk if moisture seeps into cracked casings, potentially leading to battery instability or, in extreme cases, fire hazards.The affected batteries—models BT001, BT002, BT003, and BT004—are used in Canyon’s Spectral, CFR, Torque, CF, and Spectral, CF e-bike models sold directly through Canyon’s website from January 2022 to November 2024.All other models are unaffected, and these batteries are removable from the bike frame.Canyon encourages owners to carefully check their batteries for signs of cracking.If any are found, owners should dispose of the batteries following local council guidelines for safe disposal.Canyon also offers an inspection service for customers, accessible through video chat or by submitting photos of the batteries for professional assessment.The company’s internal investigation and risk assessment categorised the likelihood of injury as high, stressing the importance of timely checks.For assistance, contact Canyon Australia and New Zealand via their website.

Contactless payments are coming to Auckland's busses, trains and ferries this weekend.An Auckland Transport webpage says payments using a credit or debit card, or a smartphone or smartwatch, will be accepted from Sunday 17 November.Payments using an AT hop card will still be accepted.Using a card or smart device to pay automatically charges the full adult fare - people still need to use their AT HOP card to access concessions on fares or the $50 7-day fare cap.Card readers have been updated on busses, trains and ferries to accept contactless payment, by tapping a card to the reader to tag on and off.Auckland Transport is expected to make an announcement about the change on Friday.It is the first step towards a national ticketing system on public transport, expected to begin its roll-out in Canterbury next year, with Auckland expected to join the system in 2026.Auckland's Deputy Mayor, Desley Simpson, said contactless payments will be a "game changer" for Aucklanders."It takes away that barrier of, 'where do I get a HOP card, have I got one, has it got enough money on it?'""This is just tap and go, so I think it'll be fantastic for Auckland, fantastic for public transport, and take yet another barrier down for those people who are concerned about using public transport."She said regular users and visitors to Auckland will now be able to jump on board without the admin of needing a pre-paid card."Our visitors come from outside of Auckland and ofcourse from offshore. So often they're saying, 'well how do we use public transport here?'""This is just so easy for them, to be able to tap their eftpos card and off they'll go."National co-ordinator of the Public Transport Users Association, Jon Reeves, said it'll make it easier to take public transport."Well this is actually fantastic, because it'll allow more people to consider using public transport, and those who already use it may find it faster now to board on trains and ferries."It might also benefit tourists, who come to the city and don't have HOP cards, and they can just pay with their contactless system."Reeves hopes more people will get onboard a public transport now that HOP cards aren't a requirement."Anything that makes public transport more user friendly is a bonus and hopefully attracts more people, so this contactless system may attract more people onto busses, trains and ferries," he said.

The Government’s latest Tax and Social Policy Work Programme, unveiled by Revenue Minister Simon Watts, outlines a strategic approach to strengthening New Zealand’s economy and improving public service funding.In the face of recent economic challenges, the Government aims to reduce tax complexity, minimise compliance costs, and address tax integrity issues, especially for small businesses and local enterprises.“New Zealand has been grappling with significant economic challenges over the last few years with many businesses and households feeling the impact,” Mr Watts said. He added that the Government remains committed to supporting businesses and residents while focusing on fiscal responsibility.The policy framework introduces six core workstreams: economic growth and productivity, tax integrity, system modernisation, international connections, social policy, and cross-agency initiatives. According to Mr Watts, easing tax obligations could allow businesses to flourish, with examples such as simplifying rules for non-resident contractors and advancing digital tax administration. “We want New Zealand to be a place where our businesses can grow, prosperity can flourish, overseas businesses want to invest, and talented people want to migrate to,” he said.Key priorities include easing compliance for small businesses, supporting family-friendly policies like FamilyBoost, and considering a tax exemption for the New Zealand Superannuation Fund to potentially enhance retirement savings.The full Tax and Social Policy Work Programme can be accessed at the Inland Revenue’s official website.

Welcome to This Week’s News Recap!Catch up on the top local stories from the past week before the weekend hits.We’ve rounded up the must-know headlines so you’re fully informed about our community.Missed something or just need a quick update? We’ve got you covered.Dive into this week’s key events now!NZ Post will not deliver to individual mailboxes in the Ara Hills developmentRead more Job Opportunity: Telephone Account ManagerRead more Hallensteins Opens First Hibiscus Coast StoreRead moreWhangaparāoa residents fume as AT considers cutting ferry serviceRead more Orewa Beach Fashion Show Thrills Locals and Boosts BusinessRead more Stay Informed and Connected.Get all your local updates at your fingertips.From breaking news and local business finds to job listings and events—our app has it all.Don’t wait for the recap. Explore the Hibiscus Coast App now and stay ahead!

Police have recovered 33 mature cannabis plants after a van failed to stop for officers early yesterday morning.At around 12.30 am, a police unit patrolling Birkenhead noticed a van driving without its headlights on. When officers signalled for the vehicle to stop, the driver fled.Inspector Todd Moore-Carter, Acting Waitematā East Area Commander, confirmed that the van eventually stopped, but the driver ran into nearby bush. Police set up a perimeter, and a dog handler tracked the suspect, who was later located and taken into custody.A search of the van uncovered 33 mature cannabis plants, which were seized and will be destroyed.A 40-year-old man has been charged with failing to stop and cultivating cannabis. He is scheduled to appear in the North Shore District Court.“This was great work from all police staff involved,” said Inspector Moore-Carter. “A significant amount of cannabis is now out of the hands of dealers and no longer poses a threat to the community. We will continue to disrupt and prosecute those involved in the manufacture and distribution of illicit substances.”

Locals and travellers alike will enjoy a fresh take on Air New Zealand’s in-flight safety as Kiwi basketball star Steven Adams stars in the airline’s 23rd safety video, Every Point Counts.Known for his powerful on-court skills, Adams joins a group of young New Zealanders in a friendly game of basketball, set against some of New Zealand’s scenic coastal and urban backdrops.The video opens at the picturesque Orewa beach, showcasing New Zealand’s Pōhutukawa trees and sparkling waters.It then transitions to a vibrant outdoor court, where Adams encounters a group of kids who are thrilled as he effortlessly lands a full-court shot.The scene quickly builds, shifting from a beachside game to a stadium setting as Adams’ friendly competition with the young players continues.Air New Zealand’s Chief Executive Greg Foran expressed excitement over Adams’ participation, noting his inspiring journey from Rotorua to the global basketball stage as a fitting example for the video’s theme.“We’re thrilled to have Kiwi icon Steven Adams join the Air New Zealand safety video whānau,” Foran shared.“His rise from Rotorua to international basketball has inspired fans to chase their dreams, making him a perfect fit.”Foran added that the video’s approach aims to balance safety with entertainment, a signature feature for Air New Zealand.“An engaging safety video is what our customers expect, and basketball gave us the perfect angle for fun, interactive content,” he said.Observant basketball fans will enjoy subtle nods to the sport, including references to LeBron James and New Zealand’s growing enthusiasm for basketball.The new safety video debuts as the holiday season approaches, promising a memorable experience for Air New Zealand’s passengers on upcoming flights.Watch the video.

Watercare has announced a significant investment of approximately $500 million to enhance wastewater infrastructure on the Hibiscus Coast over the next decade, aiming to support the area’s rapid growth. A focal point of this project will be a major upgrade to the Army Bay Wastewater Treatment Plant, scheduled to be completed by 2031.The region has experienced considerable development, with roughly 800 new homes connecting to Watercare’s wastewater network each year. Watercare’s Chief Strategy and Planning Officer, Priyan Perera, noted that the treatment plant might reach capacity sooner than expected if growth continues at current rates. To manage this, the company will actively monitor and limit new connections to the network until the upgrade is in place.“We estimate we can connect up to 4,000 new homes before the treatment plant reaches capacity,” said Perera. “This means that anyone currently building or holding a building consent granted before 15 November 2024 will be able to connect when ready.” However, Perera urged developers with resource consents but without building consents to consult Watercare early to better understand the plant’s capacity, as connection requests will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.Starting 15 November, any new resource consent applications for homes or businesses in the area will include a condition that prevents connection to the public wastewater network until the Army Bay upgrade is complete.Watercare has listed this project in its Asset Management Plan with a completion target of 2031 but is exploring faster alternative upgrades. Updates on capacity and new connections will be published on the company’s website every six months.

Food prices fell 0.9% in October 2024 compared with the previous month, according to new data from Stats NZ. The largest contributor to the decline was a 7.2% drop in vegetable prices, partially offset by a 0.6% increase in fruit prices.Vegetable prices saw significant reductions in tomatoes, cucumbers, and capsicums, helping drive the overall decline. In contrast, fruit prices were higher due to increases in apples, oranges, and bananas.“Over the past two years, vegetable prices have dropped by 14.2%, while fruit prices have risen by 8.0%,” said Nicola Growden, a spokesperson for prices and deflators. "October saw lower prices for a variety of vegetables, but fruit prices were pushed up by higher costs for certain varieties."Other contributors to the monthly decline included drops in prices for instant coffee, yoghurt, and potato crisps. However, the decreases were partially offset by price increases in standard 2L milk and fruit juice.Despite the monthly fall, food prices saw a 1.2% increase over the year to October 2024, matching the rise seen in the 12 months to September 2024.This annual increase was primarily driven by higher costs for restaurant meals and ready-to-eat food, which were up 3.4%, and a 2.5% rise in grocery food prices.Restaurant meals, particularly lunch and brunch, takeaway coffees, and takeaway meals, were among the items that saw the largest increases.Meanwhile, grocery food prices were pushed higher by rising costs for olive oil, butter, and standard 2L milk. A 500g block of butter now costs an average of $6.67, up over one-third from last year. A 2L bottle of milk increased by around 9%, averaging $4.21.Despite these overall increases, the price drop in fruit and vegetables had the most significant impact on food prices. Fruit and vegetable prices were down 8.9% in the 12 months to October 2024.

Immigration authorities have received four complaints against an immigration adviser, and multiple teams are investigating her husband's company, directors and staff.RNZ reported on Tuesday a migrant recorded conversations with Heidi Castelucci in which she offered him a job and residence for $70,000.Richard Wu had a five-year visa when he started work at Liberty Consulting Group in Auckland in May, but lost his job two months later. He says he had already paid $18,000 to Castelucci, also known as Qian Yu, for what he thought was a genuine job.Her husband Toby Castelucci's company, listed as a migration consulting and service firm, remains accredited to recruit and employ migrants despite the complaints and investigations. He is its sole shareholder and director of Liberty Consulting Group.Until recently, he and his wife were listed as shareholders and directors of the New Zealand Language Institute and Foreign Exchange Program, based at the same office in Rosedale.He denied any wrongdoing in an emailed statement.Qian Yu/Heidi Castelucci has a provisional licence. Photo: Immigration Advisers Authority"Liberty Consulting disputes Wu's claims. It did not offer Wu any position after his employment ended, or to help him find a position with a different employer, in exchange for payment. It also did not receive any payment from Wu after his employment was terminated. Any such purportedly made to him was made without Liberty Consulting's knowledge or consent."As his concerns are the subject to formal complaints, it is not appropriate for Liberty Consulting to comment further at this time."Immigration Advisers Authority registrar Duncan Connor said Yu was not now able to practise as a licensed immigration adviser."The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) has various teams that are investigating the complaints regarding Liberty Consulting Limited, directors and staff."Ms Yu is currently unable to practise as a licensed immigration adviser as she holds a provisional licence and does not have a current supervisor or supervision agreement approved by the Registrar of the Immigration Advisers."Of the four current complaints about Yu, one has been referred to the Immigration Advisers Complaints and Disciplinary Tribunal for determination.Separately, a complaint was made about Liberty Consulting Group to the Immigration Compliance and Investigations team, and an investigation was initiated."During the investigation, the complainant chose not to engage with this team about the complaint and as a result, the investigation was closed as there was no longer a complainant," Connor said."However, the Immigration Compliance and Investigations team shared the information with MBIE's Labour Inspectorate, which they will be investigating. The Inspectorate cannot comment further at this stage."He urged anyone with further information or complaints about Liberty Consulting Group or Heidi Castelucci to email the IAA at [email protected], Immigration Compliance and Investigation at [email protected] or to call the Labour Inspectorate on 0800 200 088."The IAA, the Immigration Compliance and Investigations team and the Labour Inspectorate team all operate within MBIE,r and where appropriate these teams will share information and work together to investigate any allegations of migrant exploitation."

Looking ahead, Coasties can expect the next four days to bring the following:Friday - 15/11Rain. Breezy to brisk Northerly winds.High: 20Low: 15Saturday - 16/11Partly cloudy. Breezy to brisk Sou'West winds.High: 18Low: 13Sunday - 17/11Morning showers. Fairly breezy East to Sou'East winds.High: 18Low: 13Monday - 18/11Partly cloudy. Fairly breezy Easterly winds.High: 19Low: 13Get real-time weather updates, tide information, wind conditions, wave forecasts, recommended swimming areas, and lots more.Anytime, anywhere – everything you need is inside the Hibiscus Coast App.

The Gull petrol station in Millwater has been temporarily closed for upgrades, with plans to reopen by tomorrow.The closure is part of a planned transition to Premium 95 fuel and the installation of new dispensers.The station’s existing fuel system is being replaced with the Premium 95, and new pump dispensers are being installed.The upgraded dispensers will feature new hoses, allowing drivers to refuel from either side, improving accessibility and reducing wait times at the pumps.These improvements are intended to enhance the customer experience, making refuelling faster and more convenient for locals.Gull aims to have the station fully operational and ready to serve the community again by tomorrow.