A group of oyster farmers in the north of Auckland have reached their breaking point over sewage overflow and want the government to intervene.The 10 marine farms have been in a seven-year battle with Watercare to stop sewage overflowing into the Mahurangi Harbour, which contaminates their oyster crops.At least one farmer is having to close their business, while many fear they will not survive the year, despite a pipe upgrade in September that will provide a short-term fix.At this stage, a long-term solution to the piping problem on Elizabeth Street in Warkworth is expected in 2026.Minister for Oceans and Fisheries Shane Jones said Watercare had "failed in their statutory duty of care to the Mahurangi oyster farmers"."They are solely responsible for the collapse of the infrastructure that has ruined the businesses of the Mahurangi oyster farmers."I am astounded that this colossus will not step up to the plate and offer financial compensation to these marine farmers, who through no fault of their own are now penalised because of the failure of water care," he said.Oysters help remove pollution in water, but this means there is a high risk of food poisoning if they were eaten. Photo: Nick MonroJones said he was looking into what levers the government had over Watercare."There are many areas where the Auckland City Council wants the assistance of central government. The Auckland Council is in control of Watercare, and it seems extraordinary that we're expected as central government to deliver positive outcomes for the Auckland City Council, yet one of their organisations is driving local marine farmers to penury and offering no assistance, no relief whatsoever."Watercare is a well-heeled organisation, they're not short of capital. What they're short of, though, is corporate responsibility and obviously, don't place any importance on the maintenance of a social licence to continue to operate."Their organisation should be renamed Zero Care. But more importantly, this is a comment on their culture," said the minister."They know and they've known for a long time about how weak the piping system is around Mahurangi. They've chosen to find every excuse in the world to delay fixing it up and now the oyster farmers are the casualties of this corporate delinquency."According to the farmers, the pipe network was originally scheduled to be upgraded in 2021, but never was.Watercare says it had expedited repairs to the wastewater overflow.Chief executive Jamie Sinclair told Morning Report it had to build a new wastewater treatment plant and pump station, but will make a short-term fix by September."The first part is expediting what I'd call an interim solution, which is an over-pumping solution, which will be in place by the end of August, which will reduce those overflows by about 50 percent."That's not the end solution, there will still be overflows. For the final outcome, we have reorganised our programme - the previous timeline was 2028 - we are now looking to have the outcome, an almost full reduction in overflows by the end of 2026."So I know that that that's still time. There's still pressure today on on the oyster farmers and their businesses, but that is that is our priority is to fix this issue as quickly as possible."He said he felt for the affected farmers, their families and livelihoods, but would not comment on whether the farmers could sue Watercare for lost business."We've been investing for the last six years in this community. We'll be spending about $450 million. And it's really this final piece of the puzzle which will alleviate the overflows at that particular location."The issue of wastewater overflowing into the Mahurangi Harbour has been ongoing since 2018, when farmers first raised it with Watercare.Because oysters are filter feeders, they help remove the pollution in the harbour but by doing so, there was a high risk of food poisoning if they were eaten.Mahurangi Oysters farmer Jim Aitken. Photo: Nick MonroMahurangi Oysters farmer Jim Aitken said his own health working the oyster farms was also at risk."Yeah, we're cleaning up their mess and we're not receiving any support for literally working in human waste," he said."This farm is the exception, but most of these farms, you are in knee-deep in mud, waist-deep in water, getting cut on sharp oysters, nails, all kinds of things, and now we have to worry about potentially getting quite serious infections from sewage."When we get 9mm of rain - which is happening almost weekly - that should not be triggering a spill so easily, and consistently too. Like it's not a random thing, and we're told that the pipes that are connecting storm to wastewater have been disconnected, which should never have been connected in the first place."But the increase has tripled, so far it's on track to quadruple the number of spills because we've already doubled what we did last year, what they did last year for spills, it's pretty astounding that there isn't even an increase in rainfall compared to last year.""We're wondering what's going on here, why has it suddenly increased so dramatically, is another question too, what we're trying to figure out," said Aitken.Lynette Dunn of Orata Marine Oysters said she had not been able to sell any locally grown produce since Christmas and had to approach Work and Income for financial support.She said Members of Parliament needed to take action to save the estimated $8 million oyster industry in the Mahurangi Harbour."They need to start hammering the Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, telling him we need some action. The government's the only person, or the only identity that's going to take Watercare on."Dunn's family business has run for 30 years and has overcome many adversities, but she said this has been the toughest period."Every day I've been crying, you know? I think to myself, like, I'm not going to cry today, you know? Because it's not our fault, it's their fault and they're not doing anything about it."You wail awake at night time, thinking, 'okay, how much sewage is going to go into the harbour', you know?"We used to have, like, 5 or 10 mils of rain, and we'd be closed for fresh water, or 50 to 60 mils of rain, we'll get closed for 10 days for fresh water, but now we're getting closed 28 days constantly on 5 mils of rain."In some instances, there's no rain and there's sewage spills, but this last one was 670 cubic metres of sewage pumped into the harbour on Thursday. You know, like, the water in the streets of Warkworth, running down their pipes are overflowing and sewage coming out," she said.

Locals are being urged to check their cupboards after a recall of Hydr8 Spring Water (600 ml x 24 pack) due to the potential presence of blue plastic fragments. The batches in question are marked with best-before dates of 10 JUN 27, 11 JUN 27, or 16 JUN 27.New Zealand Food Safety says the recall affects stock sold at selected supermarkets across the North Island. The issue? Soft blue plastic shreds may be floating in the bottles, posing a possible choking hazard.“If you’ve got any of the affected water bottles at home, don’t drink them,” says Vincent Arbuckle, deputy director-general. “Take them back to the store for a refund, or throw them out.”The product is no longer on shelves.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected]—we’ll help spread the word.

New Zealand now has a military squadron focused on space. The Royal New Zealand Air Force reactivated No. 62 Squadron at RNZAF Base Auckland.The squadron was first formed during World War II. Back then, it helped the Allies using radar. Now, it will track space activity to protect New Zealand’s interests.Defence Minister Judith Collins said the move shows space security is a growing priority. “We rely on space for weather, GPS, and even banking,” she said. “This shows we’re taking that seriously.”The squadron’s new job is space domain awareness. That means watching, analysing, and understanding what’s happening in orbit.The change is part of a $12 billion upgrade across the Defence Force. It aims to keep New Zealand’s military flexible and ready.Minister Collins was joined at the ceremony by Chief of Defence Force Air Marshal Tony Davies and Chief of Air Force Air Vice-Marshal Darryn Webb.It might seem distant, but space tech powers daily life on the Hibiscus Coast. It’s behind the GPS on your phone, the weather updates you check each morning, and the EFTPOS at your local café. It supports banking, emergency services like Coastguard, and even rural internet. By bringing No. 62 Squadron back, New Zealand is helping protect the systems we rely on every day.Seen 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.Locals Reject Orewa Reserve ProposalRead moreNew Speed Limit for Pūhoi to WarkworthRead moreWainui Site Wins National AwardRead moreTAU to Keep Running North Harbour StadiumRead moreWhat you need to know about Auckland's new dog rulesRead moreYour Coast. Your news. Your app.Download the Hibiscus Coast App for instant local updates, anytime, anywhere.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

Have you ever thought about standing for local government?Now’s the time to put your hand up.Nominations are open until midday Friday 1 August for this year’s Auckland local elections.And for the first time, candidates can nominate themselves online.Paper forms are still available at selected Auckland Council libraries, from Election Services, or downloadable from VoteAuckland.Auckland Council’s Governance and Engagement GM, Lou-Ann Ballantyne, is encouraging passionate locals to take the leap.“It’s time for Aucklanders to step up... and let voters know more about them,” she says.In 2022, 466 nominations were received across 172 roles, a jump from 423 in 2019.Council hopes to see that grow again—with candidates who truly reflect the people of Auckland.“Voters are more likely to turn out when they feel represented,” says Ballantyne.To run, you must:Be a New Zealand citizenBe at least 18 years oldBe enrolled to voteSubmit a nomination with two voter signatures from your areaPay a $200 deposit (refunded if you get more than 25% of the lowest successful vote)Important dates:Nominations close: Friday 1 August, 12:00Candidate list (preliminary): Released Friday 1 August eveningFinal list confirmed: Monday 4 AugustCandidate profiles online: From 1 SeptemberVoting opens: Tuesday 9 SeptemberWe’d love to see more Coasties throw their hat in the ring.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

Kiwis are being asked to weigh in on how electric vehicles (EVs) should be charged in the future, as part of a national consultation now underway. The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) is inviting feedback on five regulatory options to encourage smarter, more energy-efficient EV charging.With more households and businesses choosing to charge EVs at home, electricity networks could soon feel the pressure. Left unchecked, this could lead to costly infrastructure upgrades that push up power bills for everyone.Smart charging is seen as a low-cost, win-win solution. It allows EV owners to charge during off-peak hours, easing demand on the grid and saving money in the process. MBIE says widespread adoption could save the country up to $4 billion by 2050 and make better use of renewable energy.Locals on the Hibiscus Coast, many of whom are early adopters of EVs, are encouraged to take part. Whether you're a business, resident, or just thinking of going electric, this is a chance to shape how New Zealand manages the growing demand for clean transport.Consultation is open until 1 August 2025.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

With winter school holidays in full swing, New Zealand Customs is encouraging Kiwis heading overseas—or returning home—to ditch the paper forms and complete their arrival declaration online.More than five million digital declarations have already been submitted, and Customs hopes even more travellers will give it a go these holidays.“It’s easy, it’s free, and it can be done within 24 hours of your flight,” says Holly Stringer, Manager of the New Zealand Traveller Declaration programme.“You can even save your details for next time.”The online form is available at travellerdeclaration.govt.nz or through the official app. It supports multiple languages, and those needing help can have someone complete it on their behalf.Across June, about 68 percent of New Zealand passport holders submitted their declaration digitally, compared to 73 percent of Australians. Customs is keen to see that local figure rise as more Kiwis get comfortable with the system.Stringer adds that digital is now the standard for most travel tasks. From booking tickets to ordering Ubers, and this is just one more way to streamline the journey.While most Coasties are more likely to head off from Auckland Airport, anyone travelling overseas will need to complete the declaration, so it’s worth spreading the word.If you're not flying, Customs is asking locals to let friends and family know—going digital makes everyone's arrival smoother.Seen 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!Orewa Repair CafeSat, Jul 5More detailse-Waste Drop Off DaySat, Jul 5More detailsRural Rhythm Co-Op LaunchSat, Jul 5More detailsWant to see more events? Explore things to do in our community on the Hibiscus Coast App.Have an event to share?Promote it for FREE - click here

Drivers heading between Silverdale and Oteha Valley Road on State Highway 1 should expect delays and lane restrictions from 6 to 11 July, with works happening during both day and night hours.From Monday 7 to Friday 11 July, the southbound lanes between the Silverdale interchange and Oteha Valley Road will have restrictions between 11 AM and 7 PM daily. Traffic will still be able to head south, but reduced speeds and traffic management will be in place. Expect noise from slip remediation works during these hours.Northbound drivers will also be affected. From Sunday 6 to Thursday 10 July, lane restrictions will apply between 9 PM and 5 AM. Crews will be carrying out stormwater-related work during the night, and traffic management will remain in place throughout. While lanes will stay open, motorists are asked to slow down and follow all instructions.In addition, there will be full overnight closures in both directions between Oteha Valley Road and Silverdale interchange from Sunday 6 to Thursday 10 July (9 PM to 5 AM), due to works on the SH1 Penlink project.If you commute south for work, it’s worth planning ahead. Night works and lane closures could add delays to your usual route, especially during peak hours. With Penlink in full swing, these temporary disruptions are part of the long-term push to ease future congestion.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, 4/7Thunderstorms could pop up later in the day. Warm, with a bit of a breeze from the north.High: 19Low: 13Saturday, 5/7Expect a few showers. Still breezy, with winds from the west.High: 17Low: 12Sunday, 6/7Some sunshine with a few clouds around. Light southerly breeze.High: 16Low: 9Monday, 7/7A mix of sun and cloud. Breezy easterlies to start the week.High: 15Low: 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!

North Harbour Stadium will stay under the management of Tātaki Auckland Unlimited (TAU), following a review that found no better option.A search for a new operator began in January, led by local board members from Upper Harbour and Hibiscus and Bays.Two proposals were received, but neither met the full criteria set out in the process.The evaluation panel said keeping TAU was the best option, especially as a change could have cost ratepayers more.The new plan includes stronger partnerships with local community groups and aims to improve how the stadium serves the public.Anna Atkinson, Chair of the Upper Harbour Local Board, said the goal was to find the best outcome for locals.“We’re pleased the process was robust. Now we can focus on delivering real improvements.”TAU chief executive Nick Hill said the stadium has had a strong year, with games from the All Whites, Black Ferns and Moana Pasifika.He said TAU is ready to build on that momentum.The next step is to develop a long-term plan for the stadium and surrounding area.This will look at ownership, funding and possible upgrades.That process is expected to wrap up by December next year.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

A familiar Wainui property has just picked up a prestigious national award for its stunning transformation.The purpose-built Windowmakers facility on Haruru Road has been honoured with a Silver Award in the Industrial Category at the 2025 Commercial Project Awards.The site was once home to a well-known horse arena and later a film studio.Locals might remember the site for its connection to international films like The Chronicles of Narnia and Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon. Now, it’s making headlines for a different reason—its clever reuse as a 5,500-square-metre aluminium joinery manufacturing hub.The project consolidated all of Windowmakers' operations into one location, complete with an on-site apartment and a staff cafeteria. It’s more than just practical. It’s beautiful, sustainable, and smartly designed.Managing Director Heidi Johnston says, “This facility represents a major step forward—not just for our business, but for local manufacturing innovation.”For the Hibiscus Coast, it’s another example of how forward-thinking businesses can breathe new life into iconic spaces while staying true to the community’s character.Locals can even pop into the new Design Room, where clients can view and try out the latest joinery products.From sliding doors to sleek windows, it’s all there to see and touch, helping builders and homeowners make confident, informed decisions.Congratulations to the Windowmakers team on this well-deserved recognition—a proud moment for Wainui and a promising sign of what’s ahead for local industry.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

A heads-up for Coasties: MetService has issued a Heavy Rain and Strong Wind Watch from midday to 9pm today. It’s not unusual weather for this time of year, but it’s worth being prepared.Rain is expected to pick up from midday, and some areas may see short bursts of heavier downpours and a few rumbles of thunder. Winds will be breezy, especially in exposed spots, with gusts possibly reaching up to 100km/h before easing later this evening.MetService says there’s a moderate chance the watch could be upgraded if things intensify, but for now it’s simply a reminder to stay weather-aware. Everything’s expected to ease tonight, with drier skies heading into tomorrow.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

A weekend crime spree in Schnapper Rock has landed a 28-year-old man in court, charged with 17 offences linked to car break-ins across the North Shore suburb.Waitematā East Police say the offending took place between 26 and 29 June, with multiple vehicles targeted for items like sunglasses, wallets, and bank cards left in plain sight.Detective Senior Sergeant Mike Williams says the turning point came when offenders were caught in the act on Sunday.Thanks to sharp-eyed victims who noted down a vehicle description, police were able to move quickly.Frontline officers traced the vehicle registration with help from camera operators.By Tuesday, the Tactical Crime Unit had identified a suspect and executed a search warrant at a Te Atatū Peninsula property, leading to the man’s arrest.Inside the West Auckland home, officers found multiple items of interest.The man was due to appear in the North Shore District Court today, and police have confirmed they will oppose bail.Williams praised the Schnapper Rock community for their quick reporting and helpful information, which helped stop further victimisation.Police say enquiries are ongoing and more charges may follow.This case is a reminder for Coasties and other Aucklanders to lock vehicles, remove valuables, and report suspicious behaviour.If you see something concerning, call 111 immediately or use the Police’s 105 line or online reporting tools.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

If you’ve picked up a pack of Woolworths 18% Fat Beef Mince lately, it’s worth checking your fridge. Woolworths New Zealand has issued a recall for the 500g and 1kg packs sold at Woolworths and Countdown stores across the North Island, including local stores here on the Hibiscus Coast.The reason? A potential plastic contamination. The affected products have a best before date of 05/07/2025. While no one has reported being harmed, the company is urging customers not to eat the mince and instead return it to the store for a full refund.This might be a hassle, especially if dinner plans were already underway, but it’s a simple fix. Locals can bring the product back to the Orewa, Whangaparaoa or Silverdale stores, no receipt needed.Food recalls like this are thankfully rare, and Woolworths says it’s taking the matter seriously. No other beef products are affected.If you’ve already eaten the mince and feel unwell or unsure, it’s best to check in with your GP.For more details, you can call Woolworths’ Customer Care team on 0800 40 40 40.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

From 1 July, Watercare is officially running its own financial show, securing a record-breaking $3.4 billion in funding as it separates from Auckland Council.It’s a move that sets the stage for major investment across the region, including on the Hibiscus Coast, where upgrades to water and wastewater infrastructure have long been on the radar.Watercare’s chief executive Jamie Sinclair called it a “fantastic result” for Aucklanders.The funding includes a $2.6 billion revolving credit facility and $800 million standby facility, underwritten by big players like BNZ, Westpac, and the Commonwealth Bank.With interest costs now projected to be $21 million lower over the next two years, locals are unlikely to see steep price hikes as a result of the changes.The split is part of the government’s Local Water Done Well reforms.It means Watercare can now forge ahead with its $13.8 billion, 10-year infrastructure plan, covering over 1,000 projects including many that impact Coasties directly.Mayor Wayne Brown says the move is a win-win.“This will strengthen Council’s finances and give Watercare the independence to focus on delivering vital upgrades where they’re needed most,” he said.The company has also agreed to repay its $4 billion debt to Auckland Council over the next five years.For the Hibiscus Coast, it means more certainty around future upgrades, and less risk of costs falling unfairly on current residents.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

Need to see a doctor at 3am or on holiday in another region? A new 24/7 digital GP service is now available to all New Zealanders, giving locals instant access to trusted healthcare, no matter the time or place.Launched on Monday, the service lets users consult registered Kiwi doctors and nurses online, using secure technology to assess symptoms, diagnose conditions, prescribe medications, or provide referrals.Health Minister Simeon Brown says it’s a game-changer for after-hours care, especially for those who struggle to get timely GP appointments or aren’t enrolled with a local doctor.“Whether it’s a sick child in the night or a farmer in a rural area needing help after hours, this service means care is available when and where it’s needed,” he said.Nearly 4,500 people have already used the service since a soft launch in May. Now fully live, it aims to ease pressure on emergency departments by handling non-urgent issues remotely.Importantly, clinical notes are shared with a patient’s regular GP to ensure continuity of care. It’s designed to complement, not replace, local practices.For Coasties who can’t always get to their doctor, this service could fill the gap. Especially over weekends or during travel.The 24/7 service is now available via info.health.nz/onlinegp, with full pricing and provider details online.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

A new prescription option for weight loss has arrived in New Zealand, with the Government confirming the obesity treatment Wegovy is now available. Associate Health Minister David Seymour says the move delivers on the Government’s promise to improve access to medical treatments.Wegovy, a medication already used overseas, was approved by Medsafe in April and is now available for Kiwis with a prescription. It is not currently publicly funded, so patients will need to pay for the treatment themselves.“More than two in three adults and nearly one-third of children in New Zealand live with obesity or are overweight,” says Mr Seymour. “This puts a major strain on the health system and can lead to serious health problems down the track.”The cost of obesity-related issues in New Zealand is estimated at between $4 billion and $9 billion per year. Cardiovascular disease alone costs around $3.3 billion annually. Seymour says early intervention with treatments like Wegovy could reduce the risk of conditions such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and liver disease.“These drugs are making an enormous difference in other countries. I hope that they can be a game-changer for a lot of people in New Zealand now as well,” he says.While this rollout affects people nationwide, it may be particularly welcomed by those living on the Hibiscus Coast, where local GPs could begin prescribing it as part of weight management plans.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

Auckland is now home to its very own Police College, offering recruits and senior officers a closer, more accessible training base. Officially opened today, the new Royal New Zealand Police College (RNZPC) Auckland Campus is based at Massey University’s Ōtehā site.Police Commissioner Richard Chambers, joined by Police Minister Mark Mitchell and Associate Minister Casey Costello, cut the ribbon on a facility that’s already buzzing with activity. The first senior course is underway, and Recruit Wing 390, made up of 40 future officers, many from Northland—is settled in.The Auckland campus features classrooms, dorms, offices, car parks and access to Massey’s gym and recreation centre. For many aspiring officers, especially those from northern districts, training in Auckland removes the barrier of relocating to Porirua for 20 weeks.“This opens the door for people who couldn’t realistically move to Wellington,” Commissioner Chambers said. “Training closer to home gives them their chance.”While some parts of the course will still happen in Wellington, this new setup is already easing pressure on the Porirua facility and making the recruitment path more accessible.This matters for the Hibiscus Coast too. With the new college just down the motorway, locals who’ve dreamed of becoming officers no longer have to travel far. It’s a big win for growing our local police force and making the career more achievable for Coasties.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.