The 2024 New Zealand Consumer Survey, marking its fifth edition, has provided fresh insights into consumer behaviours and attitudes. Conducted entirely online for the first time, this survey involved 3,500 participants and was a collaborative effort between MBIE’s Consumer Services and the Commerce Commission.The survey highlights a significant drop in reported consumer problems, decreasing from 55% in 2022 to 41% in 2024. Despite this overall decline, issues related to motor vehicles purchased from private sellers have surged to 22%, well above the 12% average. The cost to repair these problems has also risen, now averaging over NZ$12,000.In terms of dispute resolution, 68% of consumers who encountered problems took action. However, only 17% sought help from dispute resolution services, a modest increase from 11% in 2022. A major barrier remains a lack of awareness about these services.Online shopping trends continue to rise, with 93% of consumers making online purchases recently. The frequency of online shopping has increased to 65%, and online transactions report fewer problems compared to offline purchases.Consumer awareness of rights remains robust, with 94% aware of New Zealand’s consumer protection laws. Nevertheless, those with less understanding are less likely to pursue resolutions when issues arise.This survey offers valuable data on consumer confidence and behaviour, guiding future consumer protection efforts.

The Kiwi economy is displaying signs of recovery, with regional scores on the rise for 2024, according to Kiwi Economics. Chief Economist Jarrod Kerr and Senior Economist Mary Jo Vergara, along with Economist Sabrina Delgado, highlighted the modest yet positive changes in economic activity.The latest regional heatmap reveals an improvement from mostly low scores to a mix of 3s, 4s, and a notable 5. Southland tops the list with a score of 5, driven by a robust building boom. Despite Auckland's strong population growth, its economic activity remains subdued. Wellington, in contrast, continues to struggle, maintaining a score of 2 due to reduced government spending and hiring freezes.While Southland and Otago show considerable progress, other regions like Northland, Waikato, and Hawke's Bay have seen their scores rise to 3. This is a step up from last year’s dismal performance but still reflects moderate activity. Otago benefits from a rebound in tourism, while Canterbury’s score of 4 is bolstered by post-earthquake reconstruction, despite ongoing drought challenges.The forecast for 2024 is cautiously optimistic. Economists expect inflation to ease, interest rates to decrease, and business confidence to recover. "Next year should bring further improvements as economic conditions continue to thaw," Kerr stated. Despite ongoing challenges, the overall outlook suggests a gradual economic uplift as rate cuts stimulate investment and consumer confidence.For now, regions across New Zealand are adapting to a slowly warming economic climate, with hopes for a more robust recovery in 2025.

A familiar sight at the Silverdale rugby club is currently missing.The GO Media digital billboard has been removed for an upgrade.The billboard is being replaced with a new LED screen, expected to be installed in a couple of weeks, according to sources.The new screen will continue to display static advertisements only, to avoid distracting drivers.This approach aligns with New Zealand's accepted practise, requiring LED display messages to remain visible for at least 8 seconds before changing to another message in under 1 second.

Auckland Mayor Wayne Brown has proposed a major restructuring of Auckland Transport (AT), suggesting it should become a council-controlled organisation (CCO) with a focus solely on service delivery. The proposal includes removing AT’s planning and strategy functions and transferring these responsibilities to elected representatives.In a statement supporting the Mayor’s plan, Auckland Ratepayers’ Alliance Spokesperson Sam Warren expressed strong approval. “Mayor Brown’s proposal is on the mark,” Warren said. “Auckland Transport’s independence looked good on paper, but the reality has been something else.”Warren criticised AT’s current operational model, describing it as having a “we-know-best arrogance” that has alienated many Aucklanders. He argued that the perceived distance between the Mayor, councillors, and AT has allowed the transport provider to pursue its own agenda, which he claims does not align with the needs of the public.“The region’s transport provider has had virtually free rein,” Warren continued. “Aucklanders just want the basics done well. No amount of spin from AT will change the feeling of your bus being delayed or your train cancelled.”Warren also called on Local Government Minister Simeon Brown to collaborate with the Mayor to enact legislative changes that would significantly alter AT’s operational structure. “Restoring a sense of accountability to Auckland Transport is desperately needed,” he said.

The shift towards renewable energy, such as solar and wind power, is influencing food prices and agricultural output, according to a recent study.Researchers Professor Emilson Silva from the University of Auckland and Dr Luccas Attílio of the Federal University of Ouro Preto analysed data from 32 OECD countries, including New Zealand, from 2000 to 2021. Their study highlights that while renewable energy offers significant environmental benefits, it also has notable economic side effects.“Our findings show that the energy transition is not a neutral process and that it carries significant consequences,” said Professor Silva. “It directly impacts people's lives.”The study indicates that countries more advanced in their renewable energy initiatives face higher food prices and reduced agricultural production compared to those slower in adopting green energy solutions.“This evidence highlights a critical challenge,” Professor Silva added. “As the push for renewable energy intensifies, so does the pressure on vulnerable populations who bear the brunt of rising food costs.”Director of the University of Auckland’s Energy Centre, Professor Emilson Silva.The researchers suggest that governments should implement income support programmes and adopt balanced strategies to mitigate the adverse effects on low-income households.The working paper, titled ‘Does the Energy Transition Affect Food Prices and Agricultural Production?’, was inspired by observations of increased protests from farmers in Australia and other nations against higher production costs related to climate policies and renewable energy installations.Professor Silva’s study calls for careful consideration of the social impacts of green energy policies, emphasising the need for comprehensive solutions to support those affected.

An Aucklander has won $44 million in Saturday's Powerball draw, the biggest win in Lotto NZ's history.Lotto said the winning ticket was bought online, with the winner snagging $44.06 million from Powerball First Division and another $66,667 from Lotto First Division.The $44.06 million prize is tied for the biggest single prize in Powerball history, matching the winnings of another Aucklander in 2016.While the jackpot has gone higher in the past, it was split between multiple winners on those occasions."We can't wait to meet our new winner and support them as they process this life-changing news," Lotto NZ's head of corporate communications Lucy Fullarton said in a statement announcing the win.Fourteen more players won the $66,667 Lotto First Division Prize, and two others won $250,000 from Strike Four.

As the Hibiscus Coast's newest hardware store turns one, Mitre 10 MEGA Silverdale is throwing a party for the community.Located at Highgate Business Park, the 11,300 square metre store has become a go-to destination for locals.To mark its first anniversary, the store is hosting a fun-filled event tomorrow (11/8) from 10am to 3pm, featuring games, food, Spin & Win, and spot prizes worth up to $5,000.Cam Caithness owner of Riviera Hardware Holdings.Cam Caithness's company, Riviera Hardware Holdings, has been recognised as the largest franchisee in the Mitre 10 group, with five stores across Auckland.The Silverdale store's success is a testament to his company's dedication to providing top-notch service and products.Join in the celebrations tomorrow and experience it for yourself!

Auckland Council is making significant strides in green energy efforts as it advances its sustainability initiatives. The council is focused on reducing carbon emissions and enhancing environmental sustainability across its $11 billion asset portfolio.Auckland Council’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its latest project, Project Gigawatt. This initiative, a cornerstone of the council's climate strategy, aims to integrate solar photovoltaic (PV) systems in local parks and community facilities. At Albany Stadium Pool, a newly installed 206-kilowatt peak solar system, featuring 376 panels across 982 square metres, is leading the charge. This system is set to generate 286,843 kilowatt-hours of solar energy annually, enough to power 36 homes.The solar installation is expected to cut the pool’s carbon footprint by 35 tonnes each year, equivalent to planting 380 trees. Additionally, the project will result in an estimated 20 per cent reduction in utility costs. Parks and community facilities account for 75 per cent of Auckland Council’s carbon emissions, highlighting the importance of this project in meeting the council's climate goals.

A newly released report has revealed that 344 people underwent assisted dying between April 2023 and March 2024, with an 11% rise in applications from the previous year. The Registrar (assisted dying) Annual Report, published by the Ministry of Health, provides insight into the implementation of the End of Life Choice Act.Locals are now invited to share their views on the Act as part of a review, with online consultation open until September 26. The report highlights the work of the Registrar and the Ministry's Assisted Dying Secretariat in ensuring compliance with the Act's processes.The report shows 945 active applications during the reporting period, with 15 complaints received by the Registrar and the Secretariat. The Health and Disability Commissioner received seven complaints, including two referred by the Ministry.The End of Life Choice Act came into force in November 2021, following a public referendum. The review aims to gather feedback from New Zealanders on the Act's operation.

Coasties, be prepared for overnight closures on State Highway 1 (SH1) this Sunday. The NZ Transport Agency has announced a full southbound closure from the Silverdale interchange to Oteha Valley Road between 9 pm and 5 am.The closure will also affect the Silverdale southbound on-ramp and Oteha Valley Road southbound off-ramp. Motorists are advised to use the recommended detour via Twin Coast Discovery Highway, East Coast Road, and Oteha Valley Road.Please note that ramp closures and lane restrictions may be in place before the advertised closure times. Additionally, this work is weather dependent, which may result in a change from the advertised dates.The NZ Transport Agency apologises for any inconvenience and appreciates your patience while they complete these necessary works. Plan your journey accordingly to avoid delays.

A growing number of companies are moving away from Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives in favour of a new approach called Merit, Excellence, and Intelligence (MEI). This emerging strategy prioritises hiring based on qualifications alone, without considering demographic factors.MEI, introduced by Alexandr Wang, co-founder and CEO of Scale AI, focuses on meritocracy, excellence, and intelligence in recruitment. Wang believes this approach leads to better hiring outcomes, allowing companies to find the most capable individuals for each position. The key principles of MEI include meritocracy, striving for excellence, and prioritising intelligence and problem-solving skills.DEI consultants have expressed concerns that MEI may lead to a lack of diversity, as people tend to gravitate towards candidates who resemble themselves. However, prominent executives like Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong and Sequoia Capital partner Shaun Maguire are embracing MEI, citing frustrations with DEI initiatives and a lack of experienced leaders to drive efforts.As the debate around hiring practices continues, one thing is clear: the way companies approach recruitment is changing.Whether MEI will become the new standard remains to be seen, but its emphasis on merit and excellence is certainly sparking conversation.

The Whangaparāoa Death Café Team returned with Dying Matters Week this Monday.This event has been held at Whangaparāoa Library on 9 Main Street, Stanmore Bay.Though a rather unorthodox name, the main focus of this national initiative is to encourage and support people to have conversations about what happens after death. These conversations are often difficult and usually the last thing we want to have.Throughout the week, the team offered opportunities to learn from experts and people working in the “death space”. As this event is coming to a close, there is a specialist panel discussion available on Sunday, 11 August, at the above location. This discussion will take place from 12 pm to 1 pm. The discussion invites a panel of representatives from Hospice, Age Concern, funeral directors, and much more. This will allow you to ask questions and learn more about the end-of-life period in a comfortable and non-confronting space. The Whangaparoa Death Cafe also brings open conversations at the Whangaparoa Library every third Sunday of each month from 10:30 am to 12 pm. More information about Dying Matters and the Sunday event can be found in the link below. https://hibiscuscoastapp.nz/Event/dying-matters-specialist-panel-specialist-stations/66aabc4f705f5f01ba4feb92#top

Coasties can expect improved water services as the Government unveils new water service delivery models.Cabinet has greenlit changes aimed at boosting infrastructure investment and giving councils more financial flexibility.Local Government Minister Simeon Brown says the move is a win for ratepayers, providing councils with the certainty needed to deliver essential water services.“Councils and voters overwhelmingly rejected Labour’s Three Waters reforms,” he said.“This Government is restoring local control and providing practical solutions.”Key changes include increased borrowing capacity for water council-controlled organisations (CCOs) and the establishment of an economic regulation regime to ensure water revenue is spent on water services.Commerce and Consumer Affairs Minister Andrew Bayly emphasised the focus on value for money and transparency.The Government is also exploring increased debt limits for high-growth councils and lending options for water CCOs not supported by their parent council.Legislation to implement the new models is expected by mid-2025.

A major international drug syndicate has been dismantled following a joint investigation by Police and Customs. The operation targeted a Mexican crime group operating out of central Auckland, leading to the arrest of three Mexican nationals and the seizure of 180 kilograms of methamphetamine.The investigation, known as Operation Fix, spanned three months and concluded with enforcement actions over the past fortnight. On 26 July, Customs officers discovered approximately 175 kilograms of methamphetamine concealed in a shipment of scrap metal at the Port of Tauranga. This shipment had arrived from Mexico.The operation intensified on Monday when Customs alerted Police, resulting in the arrest of a 32-year-old man at Auckland Airport. This arrest led to further search warrants at hotel rooms and Airbnb units in Auckland's CBD, uncovering an additional five kilograms of methamphetamine.Detective Inspector Tom Gollan reported that the seized methamphetamine is estimated to have a retail value of around $63 million. The three men, aged 23, 27, and 32, are facing serious charges, including participation in an organised criminal group, importation, possession, and supply of methamphetamine.Customs Investigations Manager Dominic Adams praised the operation as a significant success in preventing major criminal activity and protecting communities. This marks the twenty-seventh transnational crime cell disrupted by the National Organised Crime Group and Customs in the past seven years. Further investigations are underway to determine any connections to specific Mexican cartels.

From this morning, Hibiscus Coast’s Recycling Centre is open to take in household recyclables.Located on 637 Whangaparaoa Road next to the Whangaparaoa Burgerfuel, it will be open from Thursday to Monday from 8 am and closing at 4 pm. General recyclables such as glass containers, tins and cans, paper, and cardboard (flattened) are all welcome. The centre does request that these be sorted into their separate categories beforehand.A detailed list of how to prepare each of the goods can be found on their website. The Recycling Centre does, however, have a minor charge for particular items. Information about this and which recyclables can be brought to the centre can be found in the link below. Due to the closure of off-shore markets, local recycling markets have been flooded, and the value of NZ’s recyclable commodities has dropped significantly. As a result, it is no longer financially feasible for the centre to cover transport costs into Auckland. The charity managing the Recycling Centre is Hibiscus Coast Zero Waste. They work alongside Auckland Council, the local board and the Whangaparaoa Business Association. Given the variety of initiatives organised by Zero Waste across the Coast and Bays, this is one of many wonderful opportunities to introduce you and your family to sustainable living.Come by, and support your local community! https://hibiscuscoastzerowaste.co.nz/wcrc

Auckland Council has announced its Long-term Plan 2024-2034, detailing major investments aimed at enhancing the city’s infrastructure and services. The plan, supported by a 6.8% rates rise for the average residential property, highlights several key projects.Notable initiatives include a $50 capped weekly public transport pass and increased investment in community sports and recreation facilities. The plan also focuses on flood risk reduction and the regeneration of key areas like Wynyard Quarter and the city centre.For Coasties, the council is prioritising the Northern Seawall at Orewa Beach for erosion prevention, renewing and reconfiguring the Mahurangi community building and library, and enhancing the Northern Busway from Akoranga to Albany.To address growing demands, the council will implement a new, fairer funding model for local boards, ensuring more equitable support for community services and activities.For further details on the council's investment priorities, visit the Long-term Plan 2024-2034 on Auckland Council's website.

As Coasties prepare for the colder days ahead, the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) is urging locals to check their bathrooms for a recalled heater that has been linked to several fires. Since May 2024, all S2068 Serene Bathroom Heaters have been recalled due to a defect found by WorkSafe NZ. Despite efforts to alert suppliers, many of these heaters are still in use, posing a significant risk to homeowners and tenants."We've had 18 fire events resulting from S2068 heaters, with at least two occurring in recent months," says Ian Caplin, Business Specialist at MBIE. "It's crucial that these heaters are removed as soon as possible to ensure your family's safety."If you have one of these heaters, MBIE recommends contacting the supplier for a safe replacement or refund under the Consumer Guarantees Act. Landlords are also responsible for ensuring the heaters in their rental properties are safe, and suppliers must provide a remedy for recalled products. Don't ignore the recall notice – take action today to protect your home and loved ones.

The ambitious transformation of a 1970s ex-state house at One Tree Hill College is underway. The project, led by trades teacher Charlotte McKeon, offers students practical experience for future trade apprenticeships.The students are hard at work, tearing down walls and pulling up floors, aiming to turn the house into a healthy, dry home. This initiative, supported by Kāinga Ora, gives students hands-on experience and prepares them for employment in the trades. The completed house will be auctioned in December, with proceeds funding the programme's continuation and expansion."Students were here early in the morning, even in the rain," said McKeon, who is also in the third year of her architecture degree at the Faculty of Creative Arts and Industries, University of Auckland. "We can’t keep them away. It’s a wonderful problem to have such enthusiastic students."About eight students work on the house at a time, supervised by McKeon and a licensed builder. Despite only having an hour during trade class periods, many students volunteer for Saturday classes to spend more time on the project.The social housing agency provided the home for a nominal fee and arranged its transport to the college. This project is part of Kāinga Ora’s efforts to support trade apprentice training and develop skilled workers.The house will be upgraded to a certified Homestar level seven home, making it more sustainable and cost-efficient. The initiative also involves 17 young women, supported by Women in Trades, a non-profit promoting trades as a viable career path for women.McKeon, who started as a metalwork teacher before studying architecture, finds the project rewarding. “The joy of learning and seeing opportunities for improving building practices makes getting up very early every morning worth it. Life is busy anyway, and you might as well be frantic doing something you love.”Upon completing her bachelor's degree this year, McKeon plans to pursue a master’s degree, focusing on improving state houses for warm, comfortable, and affordable living. “The sooner we can do that with our stock in New Zealand, the healthier our people will be – and that will be better for all of us.”

Powerball is set to soar to $38 million tonight, offering one of the largest jackpots in recent history.Earlier this month, Lotto NZ celebrated over three decades of thrilling draws, with the first Lotto draw held on 1 August 1987. That inaugural event produced a prize pool of $1,028,024, with a first division prize of $359,808. Four winners, including a Devonport pensioner and an Invercargill City Council employee, shared $89,952 each.Despite the significant sums awarded back then, they pale in comparison to today's jackpot. The massive $38 million prize has rolled over from previous draws, capturing the excitement and imagination of Kiwis nationwide.Since 1987, Lotto NZ has created 1,187 millionaires and distributed more than $15.4 billion in prizes. Additionally, over $6 billion has been returned to local communities, supporting numerous community groups, charities, and initiatives."The support of lottery funding has helped foster strong and sustainable communities for over three decades and will continue to do so into the future," said Lotto NZ CEO Jason Delamore. He extended gratitude to players for their continued support and participation.Lotto NZ encourages players to buy their tickets early to avoid the rush on draw day, both in-store and online.The draw will take place tonight at 8 pm. Will someone hit the big one? All eyes are on tonight's draw to see if another Kiwi will join the ranks of Lotto NZ millionaires.