Professor Nathalie Gontard, a leading French plastics expert, will speak on the alarming scale of plastic pollution and its impact on human health.Gontard, the research director at France’s National Research Institute for Agriculture, Food and Environment (INRAE), says microplastics now make up about 0.5% of our brains.In her upcoming talk at the University of Auckland, Gontard will discuss the global threat posed by plastic particles, which cause a variety of health issues, including neurotoxicity, inflammation, and an increased risk of cancer.She highlights that, between 1950 and 2025, 12 billion tons of plastic were produced, with 10.5 billion tons still remaining in the environment.“Microplastics are jeopardising the proper functioning of both the environment and our bodies,” she says.While recycling is often seen as a solution, Gontard points out that plastic production, use, and even recycling still release microplastics into the world.A particular concern is the recycling of tyres into artificial turf, a major source of microplastic pollution.She urges careful consumption as the most effective solution: “A plastic toy can be replaced by a wooden alternative, or simply by a gift of time.”The free event, organised by the University of Auckland’s Centre for Climate, Biodiversity, and Society, will take place on 30 April from 2pm to 3pm.To attend, register here.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

Influenza season is almost here and vaccination is recommended for everyone over six months old.In New Zealand, five vaccines are available.Whether you're eligible for a free shot or having to pay for it yourself, it's worth considering your options.Why are flu shots updated annually?Each year, experts monitor influenza patterns and try to predict how the viruses might mutate.Based on these predictions, vaccines are updated to provide protection from the dominant strains.New Zealand's flu season typically runs from May to October, with the immunisation programme running from 1 April to 31 December.In 2025, the southern hemisphere vaccines are quadrivalent vaccines, with two influenza A strains and two influenza B strains.The five available in New Zealand are Influvac Tetra, Flucelvax Quad, Fluad Quad, FluQuadri, and Afluria Quad.Drug-buying agency Pharmac is responsible for setting the eligibility criteria for funded influenza vaccines. This year, Influvac Tetra is the funded vaccine.Four other, unfunded vaccines are available.Some people may have free access to them through their workplace.Having options is normal, but "the number and types of vaccines have expanded in recent years", Wellington doctor and Immunisation Advisory Centre medical director Nikki Turner told RNZ.What vaccine should I get?All vaccines are protein-based, meaning they're not "live" and cannot cause influenza, Turner said. They all target similar strains.Fluad Quad's point of difference is that it's targeted for people aged over 65."It's got what's called an adjuvant in it," Turner explained. "That's something extra to make a more vigorous immune response."While younger immune systems tend to respond "very well" to traditional flu vaccines, "as you get older, your immune system doesn't respond quite as well".This means the flu is more dangerous for older adults, with research suggesting people aged 65-plus account for up to 80 percent of influenza-related deaths and 70 percent of hospitalisations."There's probably an advantage with the adjuvanted one for frail, elderly patients."Exactly how big an advantage is hard to say, as data comes from observational studies, rather than clinical trials.Flucelvax Quad's point of difference is that it's cell-based, rather than egg-based.Since the 1950s, the most common way flu vaccines are made is by growing the virus in embryonated chicken eggs.When the United States experienced an egg shortage recently, with avian influenza partly to blame, the appeal of alternative vaccine-manufacturing processes became clear.Cell-based vaccines - grown in mammalian cells instead of eggs - are the way of the future, according to Turner.Are they more effective?Again, no randomised trials compare the efficacy of egg-based and cell-based vaccines, but some studies have shown the latter to be slightly better at preventing illness.Who's eligible for a free shot?Adults are recommended to get a flu vaccine every year to protect themselves and reduce the spread of the virus.In New Zealand, the 2025 flu vaccine is funded for everyone aged 65-plus and for those most at risk of becoming very sick, such as those with long-term health conditions, reduced immune function, and pregnant people.Non-funded flu vaccines are available for purchase at medical centres and pharmacies, with most priced between $25-65. It can be worth shopping around.Fewer children funded for flu shotsHealth New Zealand recommends annual vaccination for children from the age of six months.During the 2022 season, Pharmac funded flu vaccines for all children aged 3-12, but in 2023, this was extended to start at six months of age.Since then, funding has been reduced.In 2025, children aged four and under, who have been hospitalised for respiratory illness or have a history of significant respiratory illness, can get a free shot.Professor and head of department at Otago University's Department of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Women's Health, Peter McIntyre, said young children "have a relatively high burden of hospitalisation due to influenza".Last year, McIntyre and colleagues published research showing universal funding led to "substantially higher" rates of vaccination among children."Focusing flu vaccination funding only on those at the highest risk is a step backwards for New Zealand and will likely reduce uptake."Australia's Pharmac equivalent has funded flu vaccines for children aged between six months and five years since 2019.How well do flu shots work?How well an influenza vaccine works depends on several factors, such as the age and health of the patient, along with the match between the vaccine and the virus strains in circulation.In healthy adults, data collated by Te Whatu Ora suggests the level of protection against confirmed influenza is between 59-66 percent."When you look at the numbers, they're not dream vaccines," epidemiologist Professor Michael Baker said.(By comparison, measles vaccines are about 95 percent effective after one dose and 99 percent effective after two, and that immunity is expected to last a lifetime.)Vaccines for respiratory infections, such as Covid and influenza, are good at protecting against "severe disease", but "not as effective as we'd like at stopping the virus from entering".While work is progressing in this area, in the meantime, "any vaccine is better than no vaccine".When should I get my vaccine?"Get it as early [in the season] as you can," Baker told RNZ.People tend to underestimate the flu, but it causes about 500 deaths a year in New Zealand, he said.Even months after an infection, an individual can be predisposed to a higher risk of heart attacks and strokes.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

Anzac Day on Friday, 25 April 2025 offers an opportunity for Coasties to reflect on the bravery and sacrifices of our servicemen and servicewomen.Here’s a look at the ceremonies happening across the Hibiscus Coast:Hibiscus Coast Community Anzac Dawn ServiceAssembly: 5:45am at Hibiscus Coast Community RSA, 43A Vipond Rd, Stanmore Bay.Service: 6:00am.Civic Service9:00am at Silverdale War Memorial, Hibiscus Coast Hwy.11:00am at Hibiscus Coast Community RSA, 43A Vipond Rd, Stanmore Bay.Upper Waiwera Anzac ServiceService: 2:30pm at Upper Waiwera Cenotaph, 711 Weranui Rd.Ōrewa Anzac ServiceService: 1:00pm at Remembrance Reserve, 365 Hibiscus Coast Hwy, Ōrewa.Wreath laying at the service. Location is 100m north of McDonald's, on the beach side.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

Disabled people encounter all kinds of barriers to accessing healthcare – and not simply because some face significant mobility challenges.Others will see their symptoms not investigated properly because it’s assumed a problem is related to their disability rather than another medical condition. Or they will have decisions made for them rather than with them.This often means they experience worse – and avoidable – outcomes compared to others.But despite this, health research – which is meant to reduce these disparities – frequently excludes disabled people.For instance, a 2023 global review of 2,710 clinical trials found 35% reported excluding disabled individuals specifically.Researchers sometimes assume (without a good ethical or scientific reason) that disabled people can’t give consent, don’t meet the study criteria, or will struggle to follow instructions and collaborate.Even when researchers are more inclusive, their plans can fail to account for the difficulties disabled people face with travel, communication and physical access.All of which makes it harder for them to participate.This creates a vicious circle.Health research is vital for shaping the policies, treatments and community interventions that underpin modern healthcare.However, for disabled people, who make up one-sixth of the national and global population, too much research does not reflect their experiences and needs.Beyond clinical and scientific researchThe active participation by disabled people in health research is good science, good economics and the right thing to do.When people with lived experience contribute to the design and delivery of health care and research, it means services are used more and fairer outcomes are achieved.But this is far from the reality in New Zealand and around the world.Scientific and clinical research is still often viewed as being more important than research addressing the needs of patients and people, as prioritised by them.There is increasing interest in public and patient involvement in health services, and to a lesser extent health research.But this is not sufficiently embedded or formalised. Research priorities are still set primarily by clinicians and medical researchers.Most funding still goes to research investigating the causes, genetics and treatment of health conditions. And while these are important to study, there is still too little research focused on how people can live well with disability.A recent review of research funding for autism, for example, found the most money and number of grants were awarded to biological research.But a survey of about 500 people from New Zealand’s autistic and autism communities found people wanted more research into their mental health, wellbeing and practical skills development.If research aims to improve health outcomes for everyone, it must involve all populations – particularly those most at risk of poorer health outcomes.This extends beyond people with disability to include all marginalised and often excluded communities.But this kind of change will need action at different levels of research, and to be led by researchers themselves.The rules and funding systems must also support a more inclusive approach.Practical steps to make a differenceSome of the key strategies needed to ensure health research becomes more representative, ethical and effective have been outlined by the Disability Inclusion in Research Collaboration, a global network of researchers:Making sure disabled people are visible in research grant applications: funding bodies must actively require and reward the inclusion of disabled participants in health research studies.Including disability perspectives from the very start: disabled people should be involved in formulating research questions, designing studies and advising on accessibility measures.Ensuring disabled people are research participants whenever possible: researchers must clearly explain and justify any exclusion criteria related to disability, which need to be grounded in legitimate safety or ethical concerns rather than mere assumptions.Making it routine to report on disability status: research studies should use data to identify, track and report on participants’ disability status, so it is easier to monitor inclusion efforts and outcomes.By committing to these basic measures, health research can become more representative, ethical and effective.It will also help the research produce insights relevant to a broader range of people, ultimately leading to stronger and fairer healthcare systems.This is about more than justice for disabled people. It is about ensuring medical research achieves its true purpose: to improve health for everyone.Originally published on The Conversation.Authors: Rachelle Martin, Senior Lecturer in Rehabilitation & Disability, University of Otago; Kaaren Mathias, Associate Professor in Public Health and Social Justice, University of Canterbury.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

Flybuys may be gone—but your data might not be.That’s the concern now facing millions of New Zealanders after the closure of loyalty programme Flybuys in 2024.Founded in 1996, Flybuys grew to include 2.9 million members—representing nearly three-quarters of Kiwi households.Members earned points from everyday purchases, while the company collected rich data on shopping habits, preferences, and behaviour.But with Loyalty New Zealand now in liquidation, questions remain about what will happen to that sensitive customer database.It’s not just names and emails—years of purchase histories and inferred profiles are potentially stored.Despite assurances the data would be handled under the Privacy Act, there’s no confirmed plan to delete it.Experts warn that unless liquidators commit to permanent deletion, the database could be treated as an asset and potentially sold.That possibility is raising eyebrows, especially as privacy breaches grow more common worldwide.In similar cases overseas, customer data has been transferred or sold during liquidation without clear consent.While Flybuys Australia continues to operate under Coles and Wesfarmers, Flybuys New Zealand’s final chapter could shape future privacy standards both here and abroad.If data is reused or sold without public oversight, Coasties and others who once trusted Flybuys with their personal details could be left in the dark.This article is based on analysis by Dr Drew Franklin (University of Auckland), Isa M. Katerina Asher and Dr Raffaele F. Ciriello (University of Sydney), originally published via The Conversation.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

While Easter showers may have kept some Coasties indoors, the rain is proving a welcome gift for Auckland’s water supply.Early forecasts tipped up to 100mm of rain across the Hūnua and Waitākere dam catchments over the long weekend—offering a timely boost to dam storage levels.Sharon Danks, Head of Water, says the recent rain event earlier this month pushed dam levels up by four percentage points.With soil moisture back to normal, the latest downpour is expected to have a similar impact.“If this rain delivers as predicted, we could see another solid uplift in dam levels,” she says.That’s good news heading into the cooler months.Long-range forecasts are pointing to wetter-than-normal conditions for April and May, and water managers are feeling optimistic.“We can confidently say we won’t be needing to put mandatory water restrictions in place in the next few months,” Danks says.Dam levels are still near the ‘preparing for drought’ threshold under Auckland’s Drought Management Plan, so water efficiency remains important.Aucklanders are being encouraged to continue saving water until the end of the month, with the city’s average daily use currently tracking at 442 million litres—right where it needs to be.Watercare is also drawing extra supply from the Waikato River to help meet demand.So while the wet weather may have changed a few Easter plans, it’s playing an important role in protecting the region’s water future.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

Auckland Council has opened applications for paid governance roles ahead of the October 2025 local elections.With current councillors and local board members set to either re-stand or step aside, there’s an open invitation for new candidates to step forward and help shape Auckland's future.Council’s Governance and Engagement General Manager, Lou-Ann Ballantyne, says the region benefits from a diverse mix of leaders.“We’re hoping for a range of people with strong local knowledge, who genuinely care about their communities,” says Ms Ballantyne.Auckland’s governing body includes 20 ward councillors, a mayor, and 21 local board representatives.Together, they guide the city’s development, environmental planning, transport, infrastructure, and community services.No political experience? No problem.“If you’re already a community leader—whether you’re coaching sports, running local events, or managing a household—your skills could be a great fit,” Ms Ballantyne says.Training and support will be provided to those elected, with a focus on helping representatives grow into their new roles.A free public webinar is being held on Wednesday 30 April at 16:30 for those keen to learn more about the process and responsibilities of standing for office.More information is available at voteauckland.co.nzSeen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

Welcome to The Week That Was—your go-to recap of the most important news, stories, and updates for the Hibiscus Coast community.Quality of Life High on the CoastRead more Look Sharp Store Opens in SilverdaleRead moreEaster Sunday Trading Rules ExplainedRead moreRates to Fund Rubbish Collection in RodneyRead moreSH1 and SH18 Night Closures Next WeekRead moreStay ahead of the curve—stay connected. Get the latest Hibiscus Coast news delivered directly to your phone 24/7.Download the Hibiscus Coast App today and never miss a story!Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

NZ Transport Agency has confirmed a series of overnight highway closures for essential maintenance on State Highway 1 and State Highway 18 next week.Drivers are advised to plan ahead and follow the recommended detour routes.On Tuesday 22 April, State Highway 1 will be fully closed in the southbound direction between Oteha Valley Road and Constellation Drive from 10pm to 5am.Several ramps will also be closed during this time, including:Oteha Valley Road southbound on-rampGreville Road southbound off-ramp and on-rampConstellation Drive southbound off-rampThe link from SH1 southbound to SH18 westboundThe recommended detour is via Oteha Valley Road, Albany Expressway, Bush Road, Paul Matthews Road, and Upper Harbour Highway.Also on Tuesday 22 April, a full westbound closure is planned for State Highway 18, from Paul Matthews Road to Albany Highway, between 10pm and 5am.The following ramps will be closed:Paul Matthews Road westbound on-rampAlbany Highway westbound off-rampDrivers should detour via Caribbean Drive, Goldfinch Rise, and Albany Highway.On Wednesday 23 April, State Highway 1 will be fully closed southbound from the Silverdale interchange to Oteha Valley Road, between 9pm and 5am.The affected ramps include:Silverdale southbound on-rampOteha Valley Road southbound off-rampThe recommended detour for this closure is via the Twin Coast Discovery Highway, East Coast Road, and Oteha Valley Road.These works are weather dependent and may be rescheduled if conditions are unsuitable.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

In the last decade New Zealand has experienced some of its fastest population growth, with 5.3 million people now living in Aotearoa.Figures released by Stats NZ on Wednesday show the population increase since 2018 is roughly equivalent to adding two cities the size of Hamilton.Stats NZ population analyst Kim Dunstan said New Zealand's population had grown by an average of 1.3 percent a year since 2018, with the South Island growing at a slightly faster rate of 1.4 percent a year.It is the first population estimate to fully incorporate the 2023 Census and 2023 Post-Enumeration Survey results."Over the last decade, New Zealand's experienced some of its fastest population growth in its history, driven by international migration," Dunstan said.In the five years to December 2023, New Zealand's population grew from 4.94 million to 5.31 million.It took more than two decades for the North Island population to increase from three to four million, by late 2023 and over the same time, the South Island population increased by almost 300,000 people.More than 4m people now live in the North Island - with over 2.5m residing in Northland, Auckland, Waikato, and Bay of Plenty.Those regions account for 62 percent of the country's growth since 2018 and along with Tasman and Canterbury, are the only regions that grew faster than the country as a whole.Across Auckland, Papakura was the fastest growing area, at 5 percent a year between 2018 and 2024.Duncan said Canterbury's Selwyn District experienced the biggest growth at 5.1 percent a year followed by the Queenstown Lakes District at 3.7 percent a year.He said that growth was mainly driven by internal migration, with some of the fastest-growing parts of New Zealand on the outskirts of major cities.In contrast, he said there were population losses in some areas, including the Chatham Islands which fell by an estimated 80 people to 610 residents in 2024.In Wellington City, the population also decreased from 211,200 in 2018 to 209,900 in 2024.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

Coasties keeping an eye on the property market will notice things are starting to move again—at least when it comes to sales.New national figures released by the Real Estate Institute of New Zealand (REINZ) show a 12.8% increase in sales compared to March 2024.That’s 7,640 properties changing hands nationwide, up from 6,774 this time last year.The trend is even stronger outside Auckland, with sales rising 14.2% year-on-year.Buyers are especially active in the Tasman and West Coast regions, which saw jumps of 48.6% and 23.6% respectively.Acting REINZ Chief Executive Rowan Dixon says the market remains resilient despite cooler weather and softer prices.“There’s been strong attendance at open homes and auctions, and even when a property doesn’t sell under the hammer, there’s plenty of post-auction interest,” she says.House prices, however, remain subdued.The national median dropped 1.4% to $790,000 compared to March 2024.Excluding Auckland, the median slipped 2.1% to $700,000.Six regions, including the West Coast (+11.5%), saw price increases.But places like Nelson saw sharp drops—down 11.4% to $640,000.Listings are also up.Nationally, new listings increased 5.0% year-on-year, with inventory levels rising 10.9%.It’s a mix of good news for buyers and sellers alike.Buyers have more choice, while sellers are seeing renewed interest as interest rates edge lower.Locals heading to auctions might note a slight dip in popularity—just under 16% of all March sales were via auction.Properties are also taking longer to sell, with the median days to sell rising to 41, up three days on last year.REINZ’s House Price Index (HPI), which reflects changing market value, was down 0.7% year-on-year.With interest rates easing and inventory climbing, the next few months may offer Coasties a more stable market to buy or sell in.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

Auckland Airport is gearing up for its busiest April school holidays in years, with 846,000 travellers expected between 12 and 27 April.Of those, 437,000 will head overseas—many bound for Australia, America or China—while 409,000 will fly domestically to hotspots like Christchurch, Wellington and Queenstown.The biggest days are right around the corner.On Sunday 27 April, 14,000 international travellers are expected to depart—the busiest day for overseas flights.The peak for domestic arrivals is Thursday 17 April, with 13,700 passengers coming through.Auckland Airport Chief Operations Officer Chloe Surridge says her team is well prepared for the seasonal spike, which coincides with Easter and Anzac Day falling in the same fortnight for the first time since 2022.“Many Kiwis are taking the opportunity for a ten-day break,” she said.“We’re working closely with airlines and agencies to make travel smooth, and we ask everyone to allow extra time and pack some patience.”The international terminal’s covered drop-off area has seen over 3.2 million vehicles pass through since opening a year ago.With a three-minute dwell time in place, the airport reminds Coasties picking up or dropping off loved ones to keep things moving.Travel tips include:Complete your NZ Traveller Declaration online.Use on-site hotels for early morning flights.Keep laptops and liquids in your bag when going through CT scanner lanes.Check for scanner trial signs on domestic flights.With 26 airlines flying to 42 destinations, Auckland Airport remains a key hub for holiday-makers across the country—including many heading to or from the Hibiscus Coast.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

The Auckland Easter Show is back at the Showgrounds this long weekend, running from Friday, 18 April to Monday, 21 April — rain or shine.Organisers are expecting big crowds despite the wet forecast, thanks to a full schedule of indoor attractions and covered entertainment.This year’s show combines heartwarming traditions with modern thrills, including:Life-sized Dinosaurs of Patagonia exhibitionSheep dog trials with 60 sheep from Cornwall ParkClassic Mahons rides like the teacups and carouselNew arrivals including the towering Ali Baba ride and Ferris WheelThe Action Arena featuring FMX legend Nick Franklin and BMX stars like Jed Mildon and Ellie ChewFamilies will also enjoy the petting zoo, ice skating rink, bouncy castles, and free Gaming Zone with Just Dance and Fortnite challenges.The show opens daily with:Day Carnival from 10:00–18:00Evening Carnival from 18:00–22:00Entry remains affordable, with adult day passes at $15 at the gate ($12 online early-bird) and children just $10.After a two-year COVID break and a tough economic run, organiser Dave Mee says the goal is to bring joy and connection.“We’re bringing back the traditions Kiwis love while adding new surprises to make memories for the next generation,” Mee said.The Easter Show is more than an event — it’s a celebration of community, heritage, and good old-fashioned fun.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

After more than two years of steady decline, SEEK’s March report shows a glimmer of stability in New Zealand’s job market.Job ads remained flat month-on-month, but increased 2% for the quarter—the first quarterly growth seen since August 2022.While ads in major cities fell slightly by 1%, regional New Zealand stepped up with a 3% rise. Marlborough led the charge with a 24% monthly lift, followed by Wellington (2%) and Canterbury (1%).Industries showed a mixed bag. The Consumer Services and Industrial sectors dipped, particularly in metro areas. Hospitality & Tourism and Retail & Consumer Products both saw notable drops, down 9% and 10% respectively.But there was good news elsewhere. Job ads rose 7% in both Healthcare & Medical and Education & Training, with the Public sector also seeing broad growth across both city and regional areas.SEEK NZ Country Manager Rob Clark says the report suggests momentum is returning.“There are early signs that economic and labour market growth may be on the horizon,” he said.Applications per job ad climbed 2% overall in February, with particularly sharp increases in Retail (14%), Sales (6%) and Accounting (4%), making competition tighter for jobseekers across the board.With ad volumes rising in key industries like ICT, Administration, and Sales in Q1, there’s cautious optimism that opportunities may continue to improve as 2025 unfolds.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

One NZ has expanded its satellite text service to help customers north of Hamilton stay connected as Cyclone Tam disrupts mobile coverage across Northland and Auckland.Power outages caused by the storm have taken some mobile towers offline.While One NZ sites have battery back-up, mobile coverage in the north remains limited.In response, the company has made its One NZ Satellite service—powered by Starlink’s Direct to Cell technology—available at no extra charge to more users in the upper North Island, including Tauranga and Rotorua.The service allows anyone with a VoLTE-capable 4G or 5G phone to send and receive basic text messages, even without traditional mobile signal, provided they have a clear view of the sky.“This satellite-based text service offers another communication channel,” said Joe Goddard, One NZ Experience & Commercial Director.“It means people can contact a loved one or arrange emergency help when other networks are down.”The network banner on compatible phones will show One NZ SpaceX when connected.One NZ is urging locals to charge their phones now in case conditions worsen.Even those on other mobile networks can access the service by picking up a One NZ prepay SIM from dairies, petrol stations, supermarkets, or other local outlets.To check if your phone is compatible, or to learn more, visit:one.nz/our-networks/volteone.nz/why-choose-us/satelliteSeen 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!Retro 80's DJ NightSat 19 AprilMore details Silverdale Night MarketSun 20 AprilMore details Bluey's Big Play The Stage ShowSat 26 AprilMore detailsWant to see more events?Explore everything happening in our community on the Hibiscus Coast App.Have an event to share?Promote it for Free - click here!

Rodney residents will soon have rubbish collections funded through their rates, with Auckland Council’s new service starting from 1 September 2025.The change is part of a regionwide shift to standardise waste services, giving all Auckland households the same access and cost regardless of location.From 30 June 2025, bins will start arriving at the roadside of Rodney properties, ahead of the first collection week in September.Residents can choose from three bin sizes, and the targeted rate applied will reflect the size they select.Requests to change bin sizes must be submitted by 18 May 2025.Previously, Rodney households relied on private waste services or transfer stations.Locals using a private bin should contact their provider before 1 September to find out what to do with it.Council General Manager Waste Solutions Justine Haves says the change brings consistency, lower costs, and environmental benefits.“Having everyone on a unified collection service, including recycling and food scraps, gives us the best chance to reduce waste and emissions as we work towards zero waste by 2040,” she says.Rural residents are encouraged to use bins instead of single-use bags, as they’re safer, cleaner, and better for the environment.Where bins aren’t practical, households can request refuse bags by emailing [email protected] homes choosing bags will have three pack size options, each with a matching rates charge.The move is a major shift for Rodney and should make waste disposal easier, safer, and more sustainable for Coasties.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

The Blues have confirmed three changes to their backline ahead of Friday night’s Round 10 clash against the Crusaders in Christchurch, with Caleb Clarke ruled out due to a thigh injury.Mark Tele’a shifts to the left wing, Cole Forbes starts on the right, and Zarn Sullivan takes the fullback spot.It’s the first of four Friday night games in a row for the Blues, who are keen to maintain momentum after consecutive wins.Head coach Vern Cotter says the team is continuing to push for improvement.“We have improved each week, but we know we still have plenty of space to get better,” Cotter said.“There’s great internal competition in this squad. A strong team performance against a confident Crusaders team will be key on Friday night.”The starting forward pack remains unchanged, with Patrick Tuipulotu leading from lock and younger brother Hamdahn Tuipolotu named on the bench for a potential Blues debut.The match kicks off at 7:05pm on tomorrow in Christchurch.Blues Starting XVJoshua Fusitu’aRicky RiccitelliAngus Ta’avaoPatrick Tuipulotu (capt)Josh BeehreAnton SegnerDalton Papali’iHoskins SotutuFinlay ChristieBeauden BarrettMark Tele’aAJ LamRieko IoaneCole ForbesZarn SullivanReserves:Eklund, Tupaea, Tuipolotu, McWhannell, Suafoa, Choat, Funaki, PlummerUnavailable due to injury:Clarke (thigh), Renata (calf), Paul (shoulder), Tu’ungafasi (neck), Darry (shoulder)Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

Severe winds and rain from ex-Tropical Cyclone Tam swept across Auckland overnight, cutting power to thousands.At the peak, over 10,000 people were without electricity.By morning, Vector had restored power to 80% of affected properties, with fewer than 2% of customers still offline.The Hibiscus Coast, like many parts of the region, has felt the brunt of the weather, with high winds expected to continue through the day.Vector has a 1,000-strong team of staff and contractors responding across the network. However, some outages may take longer to fix due to safety risks and access issues.“If winds remain severe, our crews may not be able to reach some areas until it’s safe,” a Vector spokesperson said.Locals are urged to check the latest updates on vector.co.nz/outages, especially if still without power.Residents should keep well clear of any downed or low-hanging power lines and always treat them as live—call 111 if you see any.Anyone who relies on electricity for medical reasons should ensure their emergency backup plans are in place and ready.Stay safe, Coasties—it’s a wild one out there.Check your local street for a Power Outage online here.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.