A new trading app has just landed in New Zealand, promising to open up global markets to local investors—without the usual high costs.The platform, moomoo, originally founded in Silicon Valley in 2018, now boasts over 25 million users worldwide. Its New Zealand launch follows major success in Australia, where it quickly became the most downloaded online broker app.For Kiwi investors, it means access to over 22,000 shares and ETFs across the US, Australia, and Hong Kong. Of those, more than 15,000 US stocks and ETFs are available for just US$0.99 (about NZ$1.66) per trade.What makes moomoo different is its built-in learning tools and global online community, where users—from complete beginners to seasoned traders—can share strategies, insights, and market tips. It also offers around-the-clock access to US markets, making it easier for New Zealanders to trade in real time without worrying about time zone differences.Michael McCarthy, CEO for Australia and New Zealand, says the app is designed to break down barriers and help investors gain confidence in navigating international markets. From AI-powered tools to real-time data and expert news feeds, moomoo aims to make complex investing feel approachable.New users can enjoy 30 days of zero-commission trading on US and Australian shares and even earn free stocks with qualifying deposits. The app also supports options trading and dividend reinvestment plans for US stocks, offering greater flexibility for building long-term portfolios.Many Coasties are looking for smarter ways to grow their savings—especially as traditional investments feel out of reach. With moomoo’s low entry costs and built-in education, it could be a great stepping stone for locals keen to dip their toes into the world of global investing. For anyone curious about US markets but unsure where to start, this might just be the simplest way in.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

Fisheries Minister Shane Jones says a ban on taking crayfish from Northland's east coast is on the cards as warnings grow about the species' "perilous" decline.Jones said consultation on the proposal would start soon and would be controversial.The details were still being worked out, but it would likely entail a closure from a point south of Mangawhai to the Muriwhenua area at the top of the Far North.The ban would apply to both recreational and commercial fishers."I know that closing down crayfish over the Christmas holiday period will be quite a controversial decision, so the engagement is going to be very, very tricky," Jones said."The challenge will be, if recreational users are denied crayfish as it recovers, then should similar rules apply to tangata whenua through the kaimoana permit system that was agreed to in the Sealord settlement in 1992? I've already attracted quite a lot of adverse commentary from Northlanders about this, but it's a trade off … The resource genuinely is under extreme stress."Crayfish could be off the menu on Northand's east coast this summer as the population plummets. Photo: SuppliedThe minister said measures to protect the species were necessary both because of "legally adverse" decisions against the Crown, and the dire state of the crayfish population."The scientists have advised me that it's in a perilous state, and despite my status as an industrial champion of the fishing industry, it does get perilous if we're not following the best scientific advice. But I accept that for a lot of holiday makers and a lot of stakeholders in Northland, it will be a significant change," he said."These decisions are not for the faint hearted, but sometimes you've got to act and make very harsh calls, and I fear this may be one of them."The inner Hauraki Gulf, just south of the proposed new ban, had already been closed to crayfish harvesting for a period of three years starting from 1 April this year.Jones said local concerns about declining crayfish numbers in the Hauraki Gulf had been backed up by independent research."A number of recreational stakeholders are fearful that closure will never, ever be removed, but the scientists continually tell me that things are perilous."Jones said the ban would apply to red crayfish, also known as spiny rock lobsters, the species best known to Northlanders.It would not apply to the packhorse cray because its population was not as threatened.It would also not include Northland's west coast, where most commercial crayfish harvesting took place.The "legally adverse decisions" Jones referred to include a High Court ruling in February this year on the government's revised quota management plan for crayfish in Northland.The court found the plan did not do enough to address "an urgent marine crisis" unfolding off the region's east coast.Encouraging kina harvestingPhoto: EnviroStrat_ KinamonicsJones has also embarked on law changes to encourage increased harvesting of kina, or sea urchins.Kina are an important food source for crayfish and large snapper, but the predators' decline has led to an explosion in kina populations.That has caused the proliferation of "kina barrens", effectively underwater deserts where large numbers of kina have stripped away anything edible and reduced the seabed to bare rock.

Thinking about adding a granny flat to your backyard? That might soon be a whole lot easier. A new law change is underway that could remove the need for building consent on small standalone dwellings—like granny flats—up to 70 square metres.The Building and Construction (Small Standalone Dwellings) Bill just passed its first reading in Parliament and is expected to become law by the end of the year. If passed, it would allow simple, code-compliant granny flats—built by authorised professionals—to skip the usual building consent process. Homeowners would still need to notify council before and after the build and pay development contributions via a Project Information Memorandum (PIM).So what does that mean for Coasties? If you’ve been holding off on building a granny flat for mum, your adult kids, or even as an extra income source, this could be the green light you’ve been waiting for. The Government estimates the change could lead to 13,000 new granny flats across the country in the next decade—many of them in high-growth areas like ours.Associate Finance Minister Shane Jones says the move supports multigenerational living and lifts living standards—especially in places like the Hibiscus Coast, where demand for affordable housing options is strong. For young adults, retirees, or workers in our local trades and service sectors, the flexibility of these small dwellings could make a big difference.Just don’t rush ahead just yet—the law hasn’t changed yet. If you’re planning a build now, you’ll still need to go through the current consent process. The exemption will only apply once the law officially comes into force.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

Petrol price battles in Auckland - sparked by a new no-frills service station on the market - have seen prices fall as low as $2.12 a litre in some suburbs, but do not expect the big savings to last for long, says a fuel price expert.There are now nine U-Go self-service stations in Auckland, offering 91 unleaded at $2.23 a litre, when the average is about $2.51.In one Auckland suburb, the cheaper petrol led to an opposition gas station dropping the price as low as $2.12 over the weekend.But Automobile Association principal policy advisor Terry Collins warned motorists that those kind of prices would not last for long.He said U-Go has entered the market by dropping the price down low in a similar way to supermarkets with their loss leaders, where certain products are sold at cost."I think they've got very close to that margin and a neighbouring Mobil service station, rather than lose clients, responded by dropping their prices."If it is around $2.12, I don't think it's sustainable, but look, long may it continue if they do want to get into short-term price wars like that. I just think under $2.20 is a really good price."Read more: Z Energy Launches U-GO Station in ManlyHe told Checkpoint that the stations would be trying things like larger discounts over the weekend to see what happens with their volume of sales."They just want to get some new clientele, it's a pretty irresistible offer when you offer it at that price."I couldn't imagine it happening every weekend, but we do know they are competitive, they will have specials, they will have discounts, and they're basically trying to maintain volume in tough economic conditions."While U-Go stations were only currently operational in Auckland, motorists could expect to see more of them throughout the country, as more Caltex stations are converted to the low-cost model."What it's proven is that these low cost operators, consumers really like them, and now there is a definite niche in the market for them, we've got Allied, NPD, Gull, U-Go. They seem to be a growing segment of the market which provide cheaper fuel."Collins said oil prices on the international market had stabilised around $65 a barrel."With the US administration causing a bit of mayhem in the market, there is more bang for buck with US dollars, and oil prices are cheaper around the $60-65 mark."Z Energy, which owns the U-Go brand, did not directly respond to questions about whether the lower price was here to stay, saying pricing was localised and could be different at each site, depending on factors like competition.

If you’ve been hanging out for a break, good news—Monday 2 June is the King’s Birthday, giving us all a well-earned long weekend to enjoy.While King Charles III’s real birthday is in November, the celebration shifts around the Commonwealth to suit each country’s calendar.For New Zealand, that means the first Monday of June. It’s a tradition that started with British monarchs decades ago and we’re still happily following along.Unlike Easter or Anzac Day, there are no strict trading rules for this public holiday.That means most shops, cafes and supermarkets will be open as usual—but it’s still worth checking local hours just in case your go-to spot decides to take the day off.For Coasties, it’s a great chance to enjoy a family outing or head further afield.A few popular picks:– Weekends of Wonder at Auckland Museum (free fun for all ages)– Auckland Winter Armageddon Expo (for comic, gaming, and pop culture fans)– Matakana Sunday Market (perfect for foodies and gift hunters)And if you’re curious about how the UK celebrates?Their official King’s Birthday Parade is a big royal affair—complete with a 41-gun salute, flyovers, and the royal family waving from Buckingham Palace.It airs on 14 June, live on the BBC.But for Coasties, the focus is on making the most of the Monday off.Whether it’s a cosy coffee catch-up, a local day trip, or just some quiet time at home as winter kicks in—it's a welcome pause in the middle of the year.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

Auckland FC’s majority owner Bill Foley has shared a heartfelt thank-you with fans following the club’s historic first A-League season.In a personal letter posted online, Foley said the inaugural campaign “exceeded expectations” both on and off the field. Despite a semi-final loss on Saturday, he described the season as “remarkable” and praised Aucklanders for rallying behind their team.“To our supporters, whether you filled The Port or came with your family, thank you for believing in this club and creating the best atmosphere in the league,” he wrote.Backed by Foley’s Black Knight Football Group, Auckland FC burst into the A-League with six straight wins, sold-out crowds, and the fastest 50 goals scored in league history. They also became the first Kiwi side to claim A-League silverware.The letter also thanked staff, volunteers, and players for helping to build the club “from the ground up.”For Coasties who made the trip down to Mt Smart or tuned in from home, the message hits close to home. Auckland FC has become a point of pride—not just for the city but for the wider region. The support from the Hibiscus Coast helped shape a homegrown football story that’s far from over.“We will not rest on our laurels,” Foley said. “I know how hard the team will work to make sure next season is even more successful.”The club is majority-owned (82%) by Foley’s group, which also owns EPL side Bournemouth and holds stakes in French club Lorient and Scotland’s Hibernian.As Auckland FC looks ahead, it’s clear their debut season laid the groundwork for something special—fuelled by a city and a community that showed up in force.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

A homegrown horticultural breakthrough could see New Zealand become the global go-to for premium catnip and pet wine — and it all started with a small idea that’s now attracting big international attention.Muttley’s Estate, a Kiwi startup, has developed what’s believed to be the world’s first shelf-stable pet wine, and they’re now setting their sights on exporting it to the US.Powered by locally grown catnip, their playful product line — featuring cheeky names like “Champawgne” and “Purrno Noir” — is already in over 40 retail stores around Aotearoa and proving popular with both cats and dogs.Catnip (Nepeta cataria) was introduced here back in 1870 and grows well in New Zealand’s temperate climate.It's known to uplift mood in most cats and has a calming effect on some dogs — making it a natural fit for stressed-out pets in modern households.Director John Roberts says the company’s range came out of a desire to offer something fun and functional for furry friends, especially given rising concerns about pet anxiety.“We created the range to help alleviate some of the modern stressors on pets,” he says. “But unlike conventional wines, our products contain zero alcohol.”Roberts says even a small catnip crop can produce a full batch of pet wine, making it a high-value export product that doesn’t require massive land investment.“With the growing international interest in catnip and the ‘humanification’ of pet diets, it just made sense.”The brand has already hosted tasting events at dog parks and is working with NZ Trade and Enterprise to scout distributors overseas.“We were overrun by canines wanting to taste the pet wine,” he adds. “It showed us the demand is real — across all breeds.”Muttley’s Estate is now looking to scale up catnip farming nationwide, with the hope of turning this once-novel idea into a thriving new branch of New Zealand’s horticultural industry.So why should Coasties care?Because opportunities like this could turn a humble backyard herb into a full-fledged export earner — and potentially put the Hibiscus Coast at the centre of a booming niche industry.With our favourable climate and a community that already embraces boutique makers, it’s not far-fetched to imagine local growers getting involved.The company is even exploring catnip's potential for human use, working with food technologists to see what other surprises this humble herb might hold.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

The BNZ has cut fixed and variable home loan rates ahead of the Reserve Bank's decision on interest rates.The Reserve Bank is widely expected to make a 25-basis point cut to the official cash rate on Wednesday, dropping it to 3.25 percent.The BNZ said it was lowering its one- and two-year fixed home loan rates to 4.95 percent effective Tuesday.BNZ general manager home lending James Leydon said the bank was confident of a cut to the OCR."By cutting our fixed rates across all terms, we're giving customers more choice and the ability to lock in a competitive rate for a longer period," he said."Lower interest rates should also help relieve some pressure on household budgets by making borrowing more affordable."The 18-month fixed rate was reduced to 4.89 percent, while the standard variable rate was dropped a quarter of a percentage point to 6.44 percent.

Coasties running local shops or popping into Silverdale for errands might’ve heard chatter this week about a memo suggesting Police were backing off from retail crime. Turns out, that’s not the full story.Police Commissioner Richard Chambers has spoken out, saying retail crime remains a top priority. He called the memo—which outlined certain "thresholds" for follow-up—“confusing and unhelpful” and assured business owners that catching offenders is still the goal.“I’ve asked District Commanders to keep up the pressure on retail crime,” he said. “Officers are expected to act, regardless of thresholds.”Retail crime is on the rise across the country, and local shop owners know the cost isn’t just financial—it’s also about staff feeling safe and customers feeling welcome.Chambers pointed to areas like Tauranga and Gisborne, where dedicated beat teams and strong ties with retailers have made a real difference. Whether you run a boutique in Orewa or a dairy in Whangaparāoa, that kind of presence can be game-changing.Districts will still use discretion based on available resources, says Police Executive Director Rachael Bambery. But she noted that even closed cases aren’t off the books—new info often leads to fresh leads.So, if you're a business owner worried about what this means, the message is clear: Police say they’re still in your corner.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

Fresh Coast Jobs for Fresh Starts! Check out this week’s top picks for local roles—and share with a mate who’s looking!St. Pierre's SushiPosition: Sushi Staff MemberLocation: SilverdaleNo experience required; great perks like free lunch, bonuses, and profit sharingFlexible shifts available; long-term team players preferredView the full listing & applyHibiscus Coast AppPosition: Local Sales ConsultantLocation: Red BeachFlexible, remote role with warm leads and strong local supportHelp Coasties businesses grow while earning commissionView the full listing & applyCareer Tip:Keep your LinkedIn profile up to date—even when you're not actively job hunting. Recruiters search by keywords, so a well-optimised profile with your latest skills, roles, and achievements keeps you visible to the right opportunities.Help a friend discover their next career move—share these opportunities with your network today!Need to hire fast? Get noticed locally.Reach thousands of Coasties for $97 + GST. Post your job today.Explore more local job openings on our jobs page.

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

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

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

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

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

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

If your phone suddenly blares an alarm this evening, don’t panic—it’s just a test. Between 6pm and 7pm, the National Emergency Management Agency will be running a nationwide trial of New Zealand’s Emergency Mobile Alert system.These alerts are designed to warn locals of serious threats like natural disasters or public health risks. They’re issued only by authorised agencies like Police, Fire and Emergency, and the Ministry of Health. Sunday’s alert is just a drill to make sure the system works as intended.Most phones purchased in New Zealand since 2017 should receive the alert, as long as they’ve got mobile reception and their software is up to date. There’s no app to download and no subscription needed—the alert is broadcast automatically to capable devices in the affected area.If you’ve got kids, pets, or elderly family members who might find the loud tone distressing, it’s a good idea to switch phones off or put them in flight mode for the hour. Silent mode won’t stop the sound on all devices.Whether it’s a tsunami warning or a public health risk, these alerts help get important information out fast.If you don’t receive the alert and think your phone should have, check that it supports cell broadcasts and has the latest software installed. Some imported models may not be compatible.It’s just a test—but it could save lives when it counts.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

Welcome to The Week That Was—your go-to recap of the most important news, stories, and updates for the Hibiscus Coast community.Coastie Success: Just Bliss BeautyRead moreOrewa Library's Fresh New Look InsideRead moreHibiscus Coast App Hits Major MilestoneRead moreFourth Arrest in Gulf Harbour CaseRead moreMillwater Agent Wins Top AwardRead moreStay Connected, Stay Informed. Get the latest updates, stories, and events from around the Hibiscus Coast—right at your fingertips.Download the Hibiscus Coast App now for instant access to local news and stay ahead of the curve—whenever, wherever. Don’t miss out on the stories that matter most to you!Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

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