Night roadworks kick off this week, with full overnight closures set to impact Coasties heading in or out of town.On Wednesday, SH1 southbound will be closed between Oteha Valley Road and Constellation Drive from 10pm to 5am.SH18 westbound will also shut down between Paul Matthews Road and Albany Highway during the same hours.Ramps at Greville Road and Constellation Drive will be off limits too.Then on Thursday, SH1 southbound will close again from the Silverdale interchange to Oteha Valley Road, this time from 9pm to 5am.This is just the start.From 3 to 20 August, NZTA crews will be resurfacing SH1 between Silverdale and Oteha Valley during Sunday to Thursday nights.Southbound lanes will close from 3 to 11 August, and northbound lanes from 12 to 20 August, all from 9pm to 5am.During these closures, there’ll be no access to bpConnect Dairy Flat.Expect more noise than usual as crews carry out roadworks and clear vegetation.It’s worth planning ahead. Stick to the detours via East Coast Road, Albany Expressway, and Bush Road to avoid delays.Full details and updates can be found on the NZ Transport Agency website.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

What if the tax you pay didn’t go to the government, but straight into your own savings?That’s the bold idea being floated by University of Auckland economics professor Robert MacCulloch and former Finance Minister Sir Roger Douglas. Their updated proposal suggests shifting income tax on earnings up to $60,000 into personal savings accounts to fund each person’s healthcare, pension, and insurance cover.Under their plan, Kiwis would save around $21,000 annually across three separate accounts. The government would still act as a safety net, covering those unable to fund their own care.“With nearly 1 in 4 New Zealanders set to be over 65 by 2060, the public system just isn’t sustainable,” the pair argue. The current model relies heavily on public spending, while their proposal leverages the power of compound interest to future-proof individual wellbeing.MacCulloch says the shift could give working Kiwis more choice, competition, and ultimately better results from healthcare and retirement services, without increasing overall costs.This matters for Coasties too. Many here are self-employed or running small businesses and often feel let down by the one-size-fits-all public system. Professor Robert MacCulloch holds the Matthew S. Abel Chair of Macroeconomics at the University of Auckland Business School.A savings-based approach could give locals more control over their future, especially in an area with an ageing population and growing health needs.Of course, it's a provocative idea. But with growing costs and a ticking demographic clock, MacCulloch says bold thinking is no longer optional.

Welcome to The Week That Was.Your go-to recap of the most important news, stories, and updates for the Hibiscus Coast community.Contamination Prompts Hydr8 RecallRead moreThe Real Cost of Replacing a Staff MemberRead moreDon’t Blame the Beef WellingtonRead moreCouncil’s New Bins: What to ExpectRead moreNight Closures Set for SH1 and SH18Read moreYour Coast. Your news. Your app.Download the Hibiscus Coast App for instant local updates, anytime, anywhere.

More than 36,000 Te Whatu Ora nurses, midwives, health care assistants and kaimahi hauora have voted to strike for 24 hours of what they say is a failure by Health NZ to address their safe staffing concerns.The Nurses Organisation took a ballot of its members on possible industrial action, that would start with a 24-hour strike on July the 30th.A series of other actions would follow.Health NZ is offering a 3 percent pay rise over two years, plus two payments of $325.The union said the agency was refusing to provide safe staffing levels in its latest contract offer.Health New Zealand's latest pay offer was a "massive backward step" for the health system and patients, and there were "very strong indications" members will want to strike, the union said.Health New Zealand told RNZ it was committed to reaching an agreement, but it was also "operating within tight financial constraints".

Auckland Council has just approved a fresh plan to guide how our region’s parks, sports fields and recreation areas will grow over the next 30 years. That’s just in time, with another 520,000 people expected to call Auckland home.The new strategy, backed by the council’s Policy and Planning Committee, focuses on making open spaces more accessible and better connected, especially in higher-density areas. For Coasties, this could mean more pocket parks, upgraded walkways and greener neighbourhoods.Councillor Richard Hills says the goal is to ensure every Aucklander has a fair chance to stay active and enjoy nature. “This is about more than just parks. It’s about belonging, biodiversity, and creating a liveable city,” he said.The strategy also brings sport and recreation planning together with open space development, so when new areas are designed, physical activity and connection are part of the plan from the start.A major voice in shaping the strategy was Aktive. General Manager Debbie Curgenven says the focus on equity is a game-changer. “Everyone should have the chance to get moving in a way that works for them,” she said.For Hibiscus Coast locals, the strategy matters because it promises long-term investment in the places we use daily—reserves, walkways, and recreational areas. As growth puts pressure on space, the plan aims to keep our green spots within reach and fit for purpose.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

Coasties, if you’ve got the option to stay in today, take it.MetService has issued an orange-level Heavy Rain Warning alongside a Strong Wind Watch for our area, and conditions are expected to get rough this afternoon and evening.Up to 90mm of rain is forecast on top of what’s already fallen, with peak downpours reaching 30mm an hour.Thunderstorms are possible.Northerly winds could gust up to 100km/h before easing later tonight.The worst of it is expected between 2pm and 9pm.Auckland Transport is warning of surface flooding and disruptions to public transport, especially ferries.Slips are possible too, making some routes unpredictable or even dangerous.If staying home isn’t an option, take it slow. Turn your headlights on, keep your following distance long, and expect delays.Why does this matter to locals?Because we’ve seen how quickly things can go from wet to worrisome on the Hibiscus Coast. Streams rising, roads flooding, and that short drive turning into a hazard.So if you don’t need to be on the roads today, it’s the perfect excuse to bunker down, put the kettle on, and wait for the wild stuff to pass.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

Former Prime Minister Dame Jacinda Ardern will provide evidence to the Royal Commission investigating New Zealand's Covid-19 pandemic response.The inquiry is looking into the government's response to the pandemic and its effects.This week's hearings have concentrated on the impact of the extended lockdown in Auckland and Northland in 2021 and on vaccine mandates and safety.RNZ previously reported that the commission had requested Ardern to give evidence at a public hearing in August.But the commission said no decisions had been made about who would appear."The witness list is still under consideration, and it is not appropriate to make further comment about it at this stage," they said in a written statement."The Inquiry will share the witness list and more information about the planned August public hearing in due course."A spokesperson for Ardern said she will provide evidence to assist the commission meet its terms of reference and are in discussions about the best way for that to happen.She provided testimony to the first phase of the Inquiry, the spokesperson said."She is also happy for the commission to access her previous testimony," the spokesperson said.The first phase was conducted behind closed doors with conclusions and recommendations made public afterwards.The impact of the extended lockdown in Auckland and Northland in 2021 has been the main topic of discussion at this week's hearings.On Tuesday, Dr Antje Deckert told the Inquiry that 63,000 lockdown breaches were reported to police by citizens during levels 4, 3 and 2.Police road stops were also counterproductive because officers were often unclear on how to enforce lockdown rules, she said.Deckert said people found it difficult balancing government messaging of being kind while also enforcing lockdown rules.Representatives from the disabled community have revealed they were often a target of abuse during lockdowns.A Pasifika health expert said the Pacific population was over-represented in all aspects of the pandemic.Auckland Council disability advisory group co-chair Barry De Geest said because disabled people were often mask or vaccine exempt, it led to cases of discrimination."The number of people we had crying because they'd been uptown or done something and they were being abused by people saying you know 'put your mask on', you know 'think of us', you know so there was so much of that."

Heads up if you’re driving late next week.Overnight road closures are planned for State Highway 1 and 18, and they’ll likely affect some Hibiscus Coast commuters.On Wednesday 16 July, SH1 southbound will be closed between Oteha Valley Road and Constellation Drive from 10pm to 5am.At the same time, SH18 westbound will be shut between Paul Matthews Road and Albany Highway.Several ramps around Greville Road and Constellation Drive will also be closed.Then on Thursday 17 July, SH1 southbound will be closed from the Silverdale interchange to Oteha Valley Road, between 9pm and 5am.From 3 to 20 August, a much larger stretch of SH1 between Silverdale and Oteha Valley will be affected by night-time paving works.Expect southbound closures from 3 to 11 August, and northbound closures from 12 to 20 August, all running Sunday to Thursday nights from 9pm to 5am.During this time, bpConnect Dairy Flat will not be accessible.Maintenance activities include resurfacing and vegetation control, so you might notice increased noise in some areas.This matters to Coasties because many of us rely on these routes to get to work or home late.If you’re travelling overnight, allow extra time or take the recommended detours via East Coast Road, Albany Expressway, or Bush Road.More info and detour maps are available via the NZ Transport Agency.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

New Zealand saw a net migration loss of 30,000 people to Australia in the year to December 2024, according to new Stats NZ figures. It’s the highest calendar-year loss in over a decade, matching levels last seen between 2004 and 2013.A total of 47,300 people left for Australia, while just 17,300 arrived from across the Tasman. The numbers are similar to 2023, when 29,400 more people left than arrived.Most of those leaving were New Zealand citizens, making up 85 percent of departures in 2024, and over half were aged between 20 and 39. Interestingly, more than a third of the Kiwis who moved to Australia were actually born overseas.Despite the loss to Australia, New Zealand still gained 54,100 people from the rest of the world last year. That’s well down from the record-setting 157,300 in 2023, but still enough to keep the population growing overall.This story matters to Coasties because it reflects a broader trend of young Kiwis looking offshore for opportunities. Whether it’s better pay, lifestyle, or job prospects, Australia continues to be the first stop. With many locals having friends or family across the ditch, the ripple effects are felt right here on the Hibiscus Coast.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

Heard the buzz? Someone woke up $10.3 million richer and while the winner’s from Auckland, it’s close enough to make any Coastie’s ears perk up. The life-changing ticket was bought through MyLotto and scooped up both the $10 million Powerball First Division and a tidy $333,333 from Lotto First Division.That’s one heck of a midweek surprise.This marks the twelfth Powerball multi-millionaire win this year, and it comes just a couple of weeks after two players from Wellington and Invercargill shared $15.08 million. Word is they’re planning to help out family, buy homes, and finally book those dream trips.Two other Lotto players, both in Auckland, also picked up $333,333 in Wednesday night’s draw. And while Strike Four didn’t go, it’s now sitting at $400,000 for Saturday.Grabbed a ticket this week? Might be time for a quick check on the MyLotto app or website.And if it turns out you’re one of the lucky ones, give Lotto NZ a ring on 0800 695 6886 to get the ball rolling.No harm in dreaming a little today, is there?Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

Coasties, here’s what the next four days have in store:Friday, 11/7Wet and windy with a brisk nor’easter—take a brolly!High: 16Low: 12Saturday, 12/7 Showers sticking around and a breezy nor’wester.High: 17Low: 10Sunday, 13/7Mostly cloudy with a steady nor’wester blowing.High: 16Low: 9Monday, 14/7Arvo showers rolling in—take a brolly.High: 16Low: 9Want more weather info? Tap into the full Weather & Travel section in the Hibiscus Coast App for:🌊 Tide times🌬️ Wind conditions🌊 Wave updates🌞 UV levels🏖️ Safe swimming spots...and plenty more.Everything you need, right here in the Hibiscus Coast App – anytime, anywhere!

Northland's business community says Auckland was one of the region's biggest obstacles during the Covid-19 pandemic.The region's chamber of commerce was questioned as part of the Royal Commission of Inquiry into New Zealand's pandemic response.When the country went into a two-month lockdown in March of 2020, businesses like those owned by NorthChamber president Tim Robinson took it on the chin.Speaking to the Royal Commission of Inquiry on Monday, Robinson said Northland's business community accepted the lockdown was necessary."Because of the nature of our business, there was nothing we could do until we came out of lockdown. We just had to sort of just accept that and just kind of, you know, carry on," he said."All in all, I think all of us just sort of thought, yep, we're dealing with something brand new. The response was absolutely appropriate. It gave us a chance to sort of stop and then think, well, what's going to happen next and where are we going to head to next?"But when a second nationwide lockdown started in August of 2021, NorthChamber chief executive Leah McKerrow said the sentiment shifted."A lot of fear existed. And fear is one of those core emotions that permeates through, and unless you can actually address that fear, then it is very difficult to help people shift," she said."In that second lockdown, some of that fear was starting to be replaced with anger."That was compounded by a vaccine mandate that a number of New Zealanders found a step too far, she said."It comes back to human beings and emotion. The fear that is driven through people who didn't want to be vaccinated and it started to, I think, unravel some of that community cohesion."Tim Robinson said the unrest made it difficult to do business."You just never knew who was going to pop their hand up and say, 'this is ridiculous, I'm not going to buy into that. I'm never going to get vaccinated'. And somebody walking in the shop thinking, oh, yep, they're a kind, rational person, and next thing they're ranting and raving," he said."And you've got to somehow deal with that and try and be polite and say, well, actually, those are the rules. I didn't make them."Robinson said Northland also faced unexpected challenges during Auckland's own citywide lockdowns.He said the supercity became a wall separating his region from the rest of the country."A lot of companies started to make decisions based around 'how easy is it to transact in and out of Northland?' The overwhelming perception became, well, it's bloody hard," he said."So many companies still see us as being very hard to do business with. You know, we had Covid, then we had the year of rain and the cyclones and the road closures, and people just going, 'you know what, it's just so hard'."Leah McKerrow agreed."I think, for me, the biggest challenge for Northland was Auckland," she laughed."But, you know, quite seriously, the fact is we have to drive through this place. And so finding a solution to that so that if Auckland, you know, does have some sort of disease in the future that we can at least drive through."She said maintaining road access to Northland should be a key lesson for the Royal Commission.The hearing continues.

Running a small business often means using your car for both work and personal errands.Navigating the tax rules for vehicle expenses in New Zealand can be confusing.For Sole Traders and PartnershipsBusiness vs. Personal Vehicle UseBusiness use vs. private use: You can only claim business-related vehicle costs.Any personal use of the car is not tax-deductible.This means trips like driving to meet a clients count as business use, while driving your kids to school is private use.Importantly, commuting from home to your regular workplace is considered personal travel, not business use, even if you’re driving to your business office each morning.100% business or mixed use: If you have a vehicle used exclusively for business (and not for any private trips), you can claim all of its running costs as business expenses.Most small business owners use the same car for both work and personal purposes.In that case, you’ll need to split the costs between business and private use and only claim the business portion.Keeping a Logbook: Tracking Business UseA vehicle logbook is only required for 90 days (about 3 months) to establish your usage pattern, and then you can use that information for up to three years as long as your usage doesn’t change significantly (say 20% as a guide).What to record: Date of the tripOdometer readings (start and end, or at least total distance)Distance travelled for that tripPurpose of the trip (business or personal reason)Two Ways to Claim Vehicle Expenses (for Sole Traders)Actual Costs MethodMileage Rate MethodMethod 1: Actual Costs MethodHow it works: Under the Actual Costs method, you claim a percentage of all the actual expenses of running your vehicle, based on your business-use percentage.Expenses include all running costs, interest on loans, depreciation or lease costs if you lease the car.Method 2: Mileage Rate Method (IRD Kilometre Rates)How it works: You need to record every business trip for the year.Once you have the total business kilometres, you simply multiply that by the IRD’s rate for your vehicle.Tiered rates: The IRD’s mileage rates are tiered to be fair for both low and high mileage drivers. There are two tiers:Tier One rate: This rate applies to the first 14,000 km of travel per year (this is total km the vehicle travels, not just business kms.Tier Two rate: This lower rate applies to any travel beyond 14,000 km in the year.No double dipping: If you use the Mileage Rate method, remember that the per-kilometre rate is all-inclusive.Note that GST can be claimed (including vehicle purchase) if using the actual cost method, but not for the mileage method.The table of rates for the 2024-2025 income year.DisclaimerThis article is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or tax advice.While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content at the time of publication, tax laws and Inland Revenue (IRD) policies are subject to change.Readers are strongly encouraged to consult a qualified tax advisor or accountant before making decisions based on this information, particularly where unique circumstances or complex business arrangements are involved.DHCA accepts no liability for any loss or damage arising from reliance on the information contained in this article.At David Hooper Chartered Accountants, we help local businesses make smart financial decisions. Get in touch today at [email protected] or call 09 421 1635.

Butter, a staple in Hibiscus Coast households, is again making headlines due to soaring prices, prompting locals to question why they're paying significantly more than their Australian neighbours.Currently, a quick check of the Grocer app reveals stark price differences right here on the Hibiscus Coast. Rolling Meadow Butter (500g) at Pak'nSave Silverdale is selling for $8.29, while Anchor Butter (500g), a long-time local favourite, starts at $10.49 in nearby supermarkets.With butter integral to toast, sandwiches, and the Coasties beloved savouries and cakes, these rising costs are hitting budgets harder than ever.While the reasons behind the price hike remain debated, they may include international dairy market pressures, differences in taxes, and currency fluctuations. Using local price comparison tools like the Grocer app can help find the best deals available locally. After all, in tough times, every dollar counts, and staying informed on local pricing just might ease the squeeze.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

A new national strategy is giving Coastie businesses a clearer path into the world of artificial intelligence, with the Auckland Business Chamber calling it a “confidence boost” for small and medium-sized enterprises.Released this week, New Zealand’s Strategy for Artificial Intelligence: Investing with Confidence sets out a practical, light-touch policy framework to help Kiwi companies adopt AI tools responsibly.It’s especially welcome news for the many small businesses on the Hibiscus Coast still figuring out where to begin.“This removes unintended barriers and clears up uncertainty,” said Chamber Chief Executive Simon Bridges.“Whether you’re a manufacturer in Onehunga or a tech start-up in Takapuna, it’s about enabling real productivity gains.”The strategy focuses on helping businesses invest in AI with confidence, providing principles-based guidance rather than heavy regulations.It’s a timely move, with AI expected to contribute up to $76 billion to New Zealand’s economy by 2038. Yet 68% of SMEs currently aren’t planning for it.Bridges says the new plan offers something real: “It’s practical, not hype… this gives Auckland a real platform to lead.”For the Hibiscus Coast, the message is simple.AI isn’t just for big tech firms.Local shops, tradies, and service providers now have a roadmap to get ahead, boost efficiency, and stay competitive.The Chamber also welcomed support for attracting global talent and investment, helping position Auckland — and by extension, the Coast — as a hub for smart innovation.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

If you’ve spotted a green bin with a red lid outside your place, you’re not the only one.New Council bins are being delivered right across the Hibiscus Coast, all set for the start of Auckland Council’s new rubbish service kicking off on 1 September.If you’re still using rubbish bags, the change is simple.Come September, you can start using your new bin as part of the weekly collection.But if you’re already with Econowaste and have the all-red bin, things are a little different.You’ll still be able to use the new green Council bin from 1 September, but you won’t be able to opt out of the rates-funded service.And while it’s weekly for now, the Council is looking into shifting to fortnightly collections down the track.Econowaste says they’ll be in touch with customers soon to explain what it means for you.Keep an eye on your inbox or letterbox.In the meantime, the full rundown is already live on their website.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

AI is changing how people find businesses like yours—especially when they're ready to buy.And if you're not prepared, your business could be left out of the conversation entirely.Let’s break it down.AI Is Now Answering Questions DirectlyWhen someone searches online, Google and other platforms are starting to show AI-generated answers right at the top, called “AI Overviews.”These summaries scan the web and try to answer user questions instantly, often without users needing to click on a website.So if your business isn’t part of the content AI pulls from, you might not be seen at all.What That Means for Your BusinessTo stay visible in this new search environment, your business needs two things:Content that clearly and directly answers questions people ask.A presence in trusted sources that search engines and AI tools rely on.In short: be findable, be credible, be helpful.The New Rules of Getting Found1. Be Super SpecificInstead of saying "we do repairs," say "we fix cracked iPhone screens in 30 minutes." Specific, useful content is more likely to be chosen by AI to answer search queries.2. Share Unique InformationGot glowing reviews, local awards, or interesting stats about your services? Share them. AI favours original, verifiable information that builds trust.3. Answer Real Customer QuestionsWhat does it cost? Do you offer emergency service? Are estimates free? Create content that answers common questions clearly. This is the kind of material AI prefers to surface.4. Keep Your Info FreshStale or outdated content gets overlooked. Regularly updating your website or listings signals that your business is active and relevant.5. Get Mentioned ElsewhereWhen your business is referenced by other local websites, community groups, or news outlets, it strengthens your online credibility. Something AI and search engines take seriously.Why Local Directories Matter More Than EverAI and local search engines rely on multiple data sources to verify and recommend businesses.Well-structured local directories are one of those trusted sources.Credible Signals: Local directories provide structured business data—like your name, address, and phone number—which helps AI verify you’re a legitimate business.Visibility Advantage: If you're listed and your information is consistent across sources, your chances of being included in local AI-driven results improve.Reviews Make a Difference: Positive directory reviews influence trust signals, which may affect how AI tools prioritise your business.How the Hibiscus Coast App Gives You the EdgeA directory listing on the Hibiscus Coast App isn’t just about local exposure.It supports your visibility in AI-powered search tools too.Structured & Searchable: The app functions as a local directory with clearly formatted business information that can contribute to your overall online discoverability.Community Credibility: When locals interact with your business through the app, and when that activity is reflected online via mentions or reviews—it helps build trust signals used by search engines and AI systems.Accurate Business Info: Each listing provides consistent details that support verification and help your business rank more reliably in local searches.Even better: every listing is built to perform. These are more than just name-and-number entries.They're branded profile pages, like mini landing pages, designed to convert high-intent local searchers into real customers.And because listings are optimised for AI, humans, and Google, your business is well-positioned to be found, trusted, and chosen.The Bottom LineIf your business isn’t visible in local directories and doesn’t have helpful, searchable content, AI-powered search tools are far less likely to find and recommend you.Which means your next customer might not either.That’s why starting with a high-quality directory listing on the Hibiscus Coast App is so important.It builds a strong digital foundation.Making sure you’re findable, trusted, and ready to be discovered by both AI and your local community.And once you're visible, it opens the door to even more powerful ways to reach locals, from targeted exposure to high-visibility ad placements—because being found is just the beginning.Ready to take the first step?Get started with the Hibiscus Coast App and make sure AI—and your next customer—finds you next.

Lawyers for the multi-billion dollar global ride-share company Uber are taking the fight over driver's employment status to the Supreme Court in Wellington on Tuesday.Uber is appealing - for a second time - after losing a previous appeal against a landmark Employment Court decision in 2022 when four Uber drivers were granted workplace protection.This could give the drivers employee benefits such as leave entitlements, minimum wage and holiday pay.Uber appealed against the decision in June 2023, but the court dismissed the appeal, ruling in favour of the drivers.The company has now taken the case to the Supreme Court.Uber had previously argued the drivers were independent providers of transportation services to "riders" and "eaters", with whom they entered into contracts using software and facilitation services - an app - provided by the Uber companies.In 2023 Court of Appeal Justices Goddard, Ellis and Wylie declined Uber's appeal against the original Employment Court decision, pointing out that - while logged into the Uber app - drivers had no opportunity to establish any business goodwill of their own."Or to influence the quantity of work they receive, the quality of the work they receive, or their revenue from that work except to the extent that Uber agrees to give them some preference in relation to access to ride requests, information about rides, or supplementary payments," they said.The judges also asserted that Uber held a high degree of control over the services drivers offered, their conditions and remuneration while they were logged into the app."We do not consider that drivers can, in reality, be said to be carrying on transport service businesses on their own account at times when they are logged into the driver app, providing services to riders referred to them by Uber for the remuneration determined by Uber, and subject to the high level of control and direction that Uber exercises over the provision of services by drivers while logged in," they said.The judges concluded that the drivers were employees of the Uber companies at times when they were logged into the Uber driver app.The decision applied to the four drivers who took the case against Uber, but could set a precedent for thousands of other contractors who work in the gig economy.An Uber spokesperson said the Supreme Court hearing was an important step in providing clarity on how gig work fitted into New Zealand's modern workforce."Gig workers are an essential part of communities across Aotearoa and make a significant contribution to the economy."The spokesperson said many chose this kind of work because it allowed them to earn on their own terms, wherever and whenever it suited them."Our focus is on protecting the flexibility and independence that driver and delivery partners consistently tell us they value most."

The latest data from Auckland Council shows the city’s economy is sending mixed signals this winter. While business confidence has hit an 11-year high, employment and spending continue to slide.Consumer confidence sat at 95.9 in June, higher than recent years but still below the long-term average. Business sentiment was more upbeat, with a net 35 percent of Auckland businesses expecting improvement. This marks the fourth straight quarterly rise and the strongest reading since 2014.House sales are showing signs of life again. In the year to May, 22,900 homes were sold across Auckland. That’s 25 percent more than the 2023 low, although still far below the 2021 boom. Median prices are holding steady at $975,000, which is similar to ten years ago and 36 percent below the 2021 peak.New building activity remains slow. Just 13,864 new dwellings were consented in the year to May, which is 37 percent down from the 2022 high. The commercial building sector is also quiet, with non-residential consent values down 23 percent on last year.Wages may feel like they’re standing still too. The average Auckland rent is $684 per week. That’s nearly unchanged over the past three years. Retail sales and GDP figures are also soft, both down more than 1 percent in real terms compared to last year.Locally, the economic drag may feel very real. Auckland’s unemployment rate has climbed to 6.4 percent. That’s higher than during the COVID lockdowns and the worst since 2015.But for Coasties running small businesses, the lift in business confidence could signal better months ahead. More activity in the housing market and stable rents may create new opportunities, even as challenges remain.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]