As fintech transforms how Kiwis bank, invest, and save, New Zealand is facing a critical question: can we build a trusted, inclusive financial system that protects privacy? On Thursday, 22 May, a panel of international and local finance experts will explore this at the University of Auckland Business School's event, Trust in Finance and the Rise of Fintech.Panellist Becki Butler, Co-CEO of Tax Traders, highlights that true financial inclusion isn’t about one-size-fits-all solutions. "Māori and Pacific communities have long been underserved by financial systems not built for them. Fintech offers tools to change that, but only if we challenge the status quo," she says. Co-CEO of Tax Traders, Becki Butler.Butler believes inclusion means designing alongside communities, not simply digitising outdated models.Professor Raghavendra Rau, a leading finance expert from Cambridge Judge Business School, agrees. He emphasises that adapting successful fintech approaches means aligning them with New Zealand’s unique social, economic, and cultural context. “If we engage directly with communities, we avoid reinforcing historical inequalities,” Rau explains.Professor Raghavendra Rau, Sir Evelyn de Rothschild Professor of Finance at Cambridge Judge Business School.The panel will explore how fintech can be harnessed for good, from impact investing and green bonds to microfinance. But while technology can drive positive change, it also introduces risks. Dr Chanelle Duley, an economics lecturer at the University of Auckland, stresses that cybersecurity is central to maintaining trust. “For fintech to thrive, we must invest in strong cybersecurity infrastructure and ensure transparency and accountability.”Dr Chanelle Duley, University of Auckland Business School.Duley also points to the Reserve Bank of New Zealand’s work on a potential central bank digital currency, which is now in its second stage of a four-phase evaluation. "Public engagement is crucial to avoid the mistakes seen in other countries," she adds.Professor Rau warns that using finance to address social inequalities can be complex.“Sometimes, recipients of financial support may never be in a position to repay, especially when dealing with structural issues like poverty and inequality.” Yet, he believes that when done right, financial interventions can lead to sustainable growth and positive economic contributions.The panel will also feature Christopher Swasbrook, founder of Elevation Capital, and Decio Nascimento, founder of Norbury Partners, bringing a global perspective to the discussion. As fintech continues to reshape financial services, their insights will be crucial for anyone interested in the future of finance in New Zealand.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

This year’s budget will be one of the tightest in a decade, with the New Zealand government halving its operating allowance – the new money it has available to spend – from NZ$2.4 billion to $1.3 billion.The cut reflects weaker than expected growth owing to global economic turmoil. It also highlights just how difficult it is to predict what is going to happen when it comes to the economy.Economies are dynamic systems where relationships between variables shift. Even the current state of the economy is uncertain due to data revisions and lags in reporting.Despite this uncertainty, governments have to assume paths for revenue and expenditure to make meaningful plans.Based on the Pre-election Economic and Fiscal Update (PREFU 2023), the National Party announced plans to achieve an operating surplus in the year ending June 2027 during the 2023 election campaign.As forecasts changed, so did those plans. By the Half-Year Economic and Fiscal Update (HYEFU 2024), released in December 2024, the goal of an operating surplus had been pushed back to 2029.Nominal gross domestic product (GDP) measures the value of goods and services produced within a country during a specific period. It is a key determinant of tax revenue. Real GDP measures the volume of output of the New Zealand economy.Ultimately, the 2027 nominal GDP forecast at the half-year update was weaker than expected. This weakness was driven by lower than expected output, not by changes in prices.The 2027 forecast tax revenue fell even more sharply than the nominal GDP forecast. This was in part due to the government’s personal income tax cuts which have been costed at $3.7 billion a year.Finance Minister Nicola Willis has warned that the 2025 budget will be very tight, reflecting uncertainty in the global economy.More changes afootWe’re likely to see further downward revisions in economic growth. The Treasury has already lowered its economic growth forecasts for 2025 and 2026, in part due to the expected impact of global tariffs.While the direct effects of the tariffs on New Zealand may be limited, the indirect effects – particularly through increased global economic uncertainty – are likely to be substantial.Research has shown that United States-based uncertainty spills over into the New Zealand economy by making firms more pessimistic about the future. This pessimism leads to firms delaying investment, ultimately reducing potential output in the future.Potential output is important as it represents the economy’s capacity to grow without generating inflation. Potential GDP is affected by productivity, which has also been weaker than expected and one of the reasons Treasury lowered its forecasts after the pre-election fiscal update.The lesson from all of thisNew Zealand is running a structural budget deficit. That means the government is spending more than it earns, even accounting for the fact that governments automatically spend more and tax less in economic downturns.These deficits add to government debt, which can limit future spending and taxation choices. High debt can also hamper the government’s ability to assist in counteracting the next downturn if the Reserve Bank’s official cash rate is already near zero.It can also limit the ability of the government to respond to external shocks such as disasters or extreme weather events. These concerns are possibly behind the government’s goal of returning to surplus by 2029.But there are counter-arguments. With pressing needs in many areas, some argue the government should be spending more now to boost productivity and growth. These contrasting views reflect a legitimate debate about values and priorities.Still, one point is clear: weaker than expected economic growth since the pre-election update has made the trade-offs between present and future fiscal choices more acute.The takeaway is that economic growth is essential for expanding the resources available to both households and governments. This is so they can spend money on things they deem important both now and in the future.A growing economy is not just about producing more for prestige – it’s about creating the economic and fiscal resources to improve lives both now and in the future.Authors:Michael Ryan - Lecturer in Economics, University of Waikato and Michael P. Cameron - Professor of Economics, University of WaikatoKnow something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

We love shining a spotlight on the local businesses that make our community thrive.Today, we’re excited to share the story of Just Bliss Beauty, a place where natural beauty meets heartfelt care, nestled in the heart of Ōrewa.Stepping into Just Bliss Beauty is like stepping into a sanctuary of calm.The gentle scent of natural oils lingers in the air, and soft, soothing music wraps around you like a warm hug.At the heart of this serene space is Melissa Giddy, a skilled beauty therapist whose radiant smile and expert touch have made her a trusted favourite among locals.Melissa’s clients come seeking more than just treatments—they come for a moment of self-care, a place to unwind, and a chance to reconnect with themselves.With a focus on natural beauty, Melissa offers a range of luxury treatments, from rejuvenating facials using high-quality natural products to perfectly polished manicures, relaxing pedicures, and precise lash and brow tinting.Her personalised approach means that every client is treated like a cherished friend.But what truly sets Just Bliss Beauty apart is Melissa’s signature hands-on facials—a soothing, nurturing touch that leaves clients feeling both radiant and deeply relaxed.And soon, she will be introducing even more to her menu—specialised Facial Sculpting & Lifting Massage and Buccal Massage, a unique, natural approach to enhancing facial contours.Clients love the peaceful location and the relaxed ambience of Melissa’s space.They appreciate the time she takes with them, her gentle expertise, and the way each visit feels like a personal retreat.And for those seeking something extra special, Just Bliss Beauty has just introduced the Frangipani Infusion by Pure Fiji—a luxurious, limited-time treatment that brings a touch of island bliss right here in Orewa.Ready to experience the magic of Just Bliss Beauty?Visit justbliss.co.nz/booking to book your appointment, or call Melissa on 021 580 852.

It’s getting harder to find optimism among Auckland’s businesses, and it’s a trend that’s also being felt by many Coasties.The latest Auckland Business Chamber confidence survey reveals that tough conditions continue to weigh on local businesses, with most sentiment indicators worsening.Key Findings:Business Confidence: 47% of businesses report negative sentiment—up from 44%.Economic Outlook: 38% expect New Zealand’s economy to improve, down from 44%.Business Performance: 50% say they’re underperforming against expectations, rising from 45%.Revenue Woes: Nearly half (49%) report a drop in revenue over the past year.Rising Costs: 78% expect costs to climb in the next 12 months, up from 76%.Simon Bridges, CEO of the Auckland Business Chamber, didn’t mince words about the challenges.“After a terrible and prolonged period, businesspeople were hoping for better days by now… But the reality is they don’t see that yet.”One of the standout concerns is the rising importance of international trade and geopolitical risks, which jumped from 27% to 42%.Bridges attributes some of this to the “Trump effect,” as global tensions influence local business confidence.But for many local business owners on the Hibiscus Coast, it’s the combination of sluggish sales, rising costs, and ongoing uncertainty that really stings.Still, there’s always a sense of resilience here—Coasties have weathered tough times before and know how to adapt.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

If you were at North Harbour Stadium on Saturday night, you know what a night it was.I was right there, wedged between boisterous supporters, hot chips in one hand, and trying not to spill my drink as Moana Pasifika stunned the Auckland Blues 27-21.Ardie Savea was everywhere—leading his team like a force of nature.Every tackle, every run—it was electric.The crowd? Packed.The atmosphere? Pure magic.A sea of fans and team flags waving frantically, young and old cheering together, and a roar that makes you feel part of something big.This is what live sport is all about.So why don’t we see more of it at North Harbour Stadium?It’s only 15 minutes down the motorway for Coasties, but big games are rare.Part of the problem is the stadium’s future is up in the air.Auckland Council is exploring three options:Keep the Stadium As Is – but this means spending around $33 million on maintenance over the next decade.Redevelop the Site – creating a smaller, more community-focused venue, potentially funded through land sales.Change Management – bringing in new operators to boost the stadium’s financial performance and community engagement.North Harbour Stadium, Albany.For us Coasties, it’s not just about having a place to watch the big games.It’s about keeping a great venue alive—one that brings in crowds, boosts local businesses, and gives us a place to cheer together.If you love live sport, now’s the time to have your say.Auckland Council is the one making the call—so why not share your thoughts?Because if you want more Saturday night thrillers just down the motorway, your voice matters.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

Auckland and Northland are bracing for a period of heavy rain, with thunderstorms and localised downpours expected from 5pm today until 5am Monday.The forecast warns of intense rain, with rainfall rates reaching 25 to 40 mm per hour in some areas.While the heavy rain watch covers both regions, a severe thunderstorm watch is also in place, with a moderate chance of upgrading to a warning.For Coasties, this means keeping an eye on local streams, rivers, and low-lying areas, which could be at risk of surface or flash flooding.Driving conditions could become hazardous, with surface flooding and poor visibility likely.Take extra care, especially in areas prone to slips.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

Ever driven past that massive building on Highgate Parkway in Silverdale and wondered what goes on inside?Well, it’s not just any building—it’s home to one of New Zealand’s first ever GCDO-certified hyperscale Public Cloud Data Centres.CDC Data Centres New Zealand Limited (CDC) has made Silverdale part of a digital milestone, housing two state-of-the-art facilities—SD1 and SD1A—with a current operating capacity of 22 MW.This is more than just a tech hub—it’s a secure, efficient, and resilient digital fortress supporting everything from government services to critical infrastructure.But what does this really mean for locals?It means that right here on the Hibiscus Coast, we’re at the forefront of a secure, cutting-edge digital infrastructure that powers government services and protects vital data.This isn’t just about some big data centre—it’s about making sure our digital lives, from healthcare to education, are secure and reliable.This certification, part of the Public Cloud Data Centre Certification (PCDCC) initiative led by the Government Chief Digital Officer (GCDO), provides a standardised and consistent security assessment for onshore public cloud data centres.It aims to boost the security, efficiency, and reliability of cloud services for government agencies.Richard Ashworth, General Manager All-of-Government Services Delivery, highlighted the significance of this achievement, stating that it will strengthen New Zealand’s digital infrastructure and support the country’s long-term digital transformation goals.“This certification provides New Zealand government agencies and organisations with confidence that the Public Cloud Data Centres they use meet security obligations and reduce ownership, control, and supply chain risks,” Ashworth said.For Coasties, having a hyperscale data centre in Silverdale means being part of a national initiative to secure critical digital infrastructure.It enhances the region’s role in supporting secure cloud services for local and national organisations.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.Speed Limit Changes for Local Streets Read moreToy Duck Recalled Over Choking HazardRead moreŌrewa Library Upgrade Completed EarlyRead moreLuxury Rentals Surge as Wealthy Seek NZ VisasRead moreWintergeddon 2025: Geek Out King’s Birthday WeekendRead 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]

Food prices rose 3.7% in the 12 months to April 2025, up from 3.5% in March, according to Stats NZ.Grocery items, especially dairy, and non-alcoholic beverages saw the biggest jumps.Dairy prices surged, with butter up a staggering 65.3%, while milk rose 15.1% and cheese 24%.A 500g block of butter now costs an average of $7.42, nearly $3 more than last year.Nicola Growden, Stats NZ's prices spokesperson, highlighted the impact.“Price increases were widespread, with all five food groups recording an increase,” she said.Notably, the fruit and vegetables group saw its first price rise since January 2024, climbing 0.2%.Non-alcoholic beverages were also hit, driven by a 21.3% jump in instant coffee prices.A 100g jar now costs an average of $8.21, up $1.44 from a year ago.Tips to Beat Rising Food CostsAs grocery bills climb, Coasties can take a few steps to save money:Shop Smart: Switch to store brands or look for discounts on bulk items.Focus on Seasonal Produce: Buy fruits and vegetables that are in-season for better prices.Save on Dairy: When butter is on special, buy in bulk and freeze it. Properly wrapped, frozen butter can last up to 9 months without losing quality.Cut Coffee Costs: Try cheaper coffee brands, buy larger packs, or brew at home.Use Price Tracking Apps: Tools like Grocer NZ can help you find the best deals.These simple changes can help Coast households manage the impact of rising food prices.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

Mental health in the workplace is too often an afterthought, but neglecting it can have lasting consequences.EMA Health and Safety Facilitator Peter Simunovich is warning businesses that treating mental health as a “nice to have” rather than a necessity is leading to a dangerous trend—slow harm.Simunovich highlights that slow harm is the gradual, often unnoticed decline in employee wellbeing.It shows up as chronic stress, burnout, and even physical illness over time.“Mental health decline doesn't usually happen in dramatic moments. It’s the accumulation of minor changes—like feeling a bit more exhausted, a little more irritable, or losing motivation,” he explained.The Covid-19 pandemic initially brought mental health to the forefront, with many companies adopting support systems.But as the urgency has faded, so too has the focus on employee wellbeing.Simunovich warns this is a mistake. “We are wired not to notice slow harm immediately. By the time we recognise it, the damage is often done.”For Coasties, this message is a timely reminder that maintaining good mental health isn’t just a personal responsibility—it’s a workplace priority.Simunovich’s work with EMA includes training employees to identify signs of slow harm and practical techniques to prevent it, like mental redirection and structured visualisation.He emphasises that businesses need more than basic mental health first aid.A true commitment means building a culture where mental health is prioritised, and early signs of deterioration are addressed before they become crises.Simunovich’s advice is clear: local businesses must treat mental health as an essential aspect of health and safety, just like any physical hazard.Without it, slow harm will continue to impact employee performance, engagement, and overall wellbeing.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

The recycling centre that burnt down on Auckland's North Shore last month has found a new site to accommodate staff.The Abilities Recycling plant caught fire, burning to the ground and destroying critical equipment.The organisation employs almost 120 employees with disabilities.A smaller site has been found in Wairau Valley, which will continue the organisation's recycling work.It intends setting up another Wairau Valley site for E-waste and will be announcing drop-off details shortly.Abilities managing director Peter Fraher said it was likely to take two years before they were fully operational once again."To replicate what Abilities had before, which was a totally integrated site, is, in the short term, almost impossible," he said."So we're looking at taking it step by step, our first priority is to look after our staff with disabilities."Fraher said they had not defined just how many staff would be able to work at the new site, but they were looking at rostering."We hope that a good percentage of our people with disabilities can be accommodated at this location, which is still in the Wairau Valley and close to their normal commute."The support the organisation has had from the community since the fire has been overwhelming and uplifting, Fraher said."When I get out of bed in the morning, and I think 'we've got a big road ahead', I just think of all the support we've had and it just uplifts me, and it uplifts all our team," he said."It's just been amazing, the New Zealand community, it's alive and well, and we want to thank everybody, just from my heart, from the support we've had, it's just unbelievable."Fraher said there was still more work to do."Our current planning is that it's a two year project, and we have that ultimate goal, but like any journey it's a step at a time, and we're working very hard to do it as soon as possible but we also have to be practical," he said."To accommodate 120 people with disabilities, and hopefully more, it's a big task and it's got to be done safely, so it's not going to happen overnight."

Blues winger Caleb Clarke is set to make his much-anticipated return from injury in Saturday night's Super Rugby clash against Moana Pasifika at North Harbour Stadium.After missing four games with a thigh injury, Clarke will take his spot on the left wing, while AJ Lam shifts to the right.For Coasties, this is a prime chance to see some of the country’s top rugby talent right on their doorstep.In a further boost for the Blues' lineup, Angus Ta’avao returns to start at tighthead prop, Josh Beehre steps into the second row, and Adrian Choat fills in at blindside flanker, replacing Anton Segner, who is sidelined with a shoulder injury.Blues head coach Vern Cotter is focused on maintaining the team’s momentum.“This is another big match for us. We need to be clinical as a group and lift our physicality and intensity,” Cotter said.“We’ve built some good momentum in recent weeks, and this is another step forward as we focus on continually improving our game.”Starting XV:Joshua Fusitu’a (33 caps)Ricky Riccitelli (47 caps)Angus Ta’avao (78 caps)Patrick Tuipulotu (Captain) (120 caps)Josh Beehre (23 caps)Adrian Choat (51 caps)Dalton Papali’i (93 caps)Hoskins Sotutu (74 caps)Taufa Funaki (32 caps)Beauden Barrett (40 caps)Caleb Clarke (71 caps)Xavi Taele (4 caps)Rieko Ioane (124 caps)AJ Lam (54 caps)Corey Evans (25 caps)Reserves:Kurt Eklund (71 caps)Mason Tupaea (7 caps)Marcel Renata (62 caps)Laghlan McWhannell (19 caps)Cam Christie (7 caps)Finlay Christie (64 caps)Harry Plummer (85 caps)Cole Forbes (26 caps)Injury Updates:Anton Segner (shoulder)Stephen Perofeta (leg)Reon Paul (shoulder)Cam Suafoa (medical)Ofa Tu’ungafasi (neck, season)Sam Darry (shoulder, season)For Coasties, this is more than just a game—it's a chance to watch world-class players like Beauden Barrett, Rieko Ioane, and the returning Clarke light up North Harbour Stadium.Don’t miss it.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

If you love flicking on the car radio or catching the nightly news on TV, here’s something to keep an eye on. The BBC in England has announced it’s preparing to ditch traditional television and radio broadcasts entirely—going online-only within the next decade. And here in New Zealand, our broadcasters seem to be following a similar path.We’ve already seen it with iHeart Country New Zealand, which just launched this month. It’s a new station with a fresh country music mix, but there’s a twist—no live presenters, just pre-programmed music. And Gold FM? It’s moved entirely online.It’s not just radio either. TVNZ has its "TVNZ+" digital platform, Sky’s expanding its streaming, and Discovery NZ is pouring resources into on-demand shows. Even your favourite local stations might soon be app-only.There’s a deadline too. All AM and FM radio licences in New Zealand expire in 2031, along with digital television licences. Unless the government extends them, this could be the final chapter for traditional broadcasts.For Coasties, that means your drive-time radio could become an app, and the six o’clock news might be something you stream whenever you want. Sure, it’s more convenient—watch or listen on your terms—but it’s a big change from the old way.So, if you love the comfort of a familiar voice on the radio or catching the nightly news on the telly, the move to streaming and on-demand might feel like the end of an era.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

Looking for plans? Explore events happening soon on the Hibiscus Coast and start planning your next activity!West Side StorySaturdayMore detailsAuckland Blues vs Moana PasifikaSaturdayMore detailsZOO.2 — The Ultimate U2 Tribute ShowSaturdayMore details Want to see more events? Explore what's happening in our community on the Hibiscus Coast App.Have an event to share?Promote it for FREE - click here

Coasties might notice a new trend in the luxury property market—high-end rentals are soaring, thanks to wealthy North American investors. These well-heeled visitors, particularly from the United States and Canada, are driving demand for multimillion-dollar homes while waiting for clarity around New Zealand’s investor visa rules.Local real estate expert Caleb Paterson, who specialises in high-value properties, says these clients are willing to pay $20,000 to $30,000 a week for premium rentals—homes they may eventually buy if visa pathways open.“It’s a ‘try-before-you-buy’ situation for many,” Paterson explains. He adds that vendors who once wouldn’t consider renting their properties are now embracing the idea, hoping to convert tenants into buyers.While Auckland’s luxury market is slowing—properties valued at $3.5 million now take an average of 64 days to sell, up from 42 days last year—these high-net-worth renters are providing a fresh opportunity.Even on the Hibiscus Coast, where coastal homes offer a premium lifestyle, local homeowners with high-end properties may find interest from international renters, especially given the falling New Zealand dollar, which makes rentals look like a bargain to overseas clients.Paterson believes the trend will continue as visa rules remain uncertain. For local homeowners, it could be a chance to benefit from a slow market without selling.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

Your weekend weather at a glance.Coasties, here’s what the next four days have in store:Friday, 16/5A mix of sun and cloud. Breezy West to Sou'West winds.High: 19Low: 10Saturday, 17/5A mix of sun and cloud. Breezy Northerly winds.High: 20Low: 15Sunday, 18/5Showers. Fairly breezy North to Nor'West winds.High: 20Low: 14Monday, 19/5A mix of sun and cloud. Fairly breezy South to Sou'West winds.High: 18Low: 11Looking for more weather details?Check out our full Weather & Travel section in the Hibiscus Coast App for:🌊 Tide information🌬️ Wind conditions🌊 Wave updates🌞 UV levels🏖️ Safe swimming areasand much more.Everything you need is inside the Hibiscus Coast App – anytime, anywhere!

New Zealand’s population reached an estimated 5,330,600 at 31 March 2025, according to Statistics New Zealand. The latest figures reveal a population growth of 47,200 over the past year, marking a 0.9% increase.Female Population: 2,680,100Male Population: 2,650,500Median Age: 38.9 for females, 37.3 for malesThe population growth was driven by two main factors:Natural Increase (Births minus Deaths): 20,800 (44% of growth)Net Migration (Arrivals minus Departures): 26,400 (56% of growth)During the most recent quarter (ending March 2025), the country added 16,600 residents, with 5,600 from natural increase and 11,100 from net migration.These figures come as Statistics New Zealand revises population estimates for the past six quarters to ensure accuracy, primarily adjusting for updated migration data.With New Zealand’s population continuing to grow, local communities like the Hibiscus Coast may see ongoing demand for housing, services, and infrastructure. Understanding these trends helps Coasties prepare for future changes in the area, including potential impacts on local schools, healthcare, and transport.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

Work to replace the Mill Flat Road Bridge in Coatesville is underway, following extensive damage caused by the 2023 floods. Contractors are currently clearing vegetation and conducting essential stormwater works as part of the initial phases. A temporary Bailey bridge was put in place by Auckland Transport (AT) shortly after the original bridge was washed away, ensuring continued access for locals.Since then, a feasibility report has guided the planning of a permanent solution. Several options for the new bridge have been reviewed, and AT is collaborating with Vector to relocate residential power lines to accommodate the new structure.The new bridge is expected to be completed by mid-2026, with John Fillmore Contracting managing the construction. In an effort to keep the community informed, AT contractors will engage directly with local residents throughout the project.For Coasties who use the bridge, the long-awaited replacement is an essential step in restoring local infrastructure and ensuring the bridge can withstand future weather events.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

The Deputy-Auditor General is urging Auckland Transport (AT) to do better in communicating unplanned transport disruptions to the public, and to improve its processes for managing disruptions.A report published by the Office of the Auditor General (OAG) has found that AT's systems for identifying and managing disruptions are largely manual, complex, and have resulted in long delays for patrons to be informed.It takes on average 22 minutes for AT to inform patrons about unplanned disruptions after an incident occurs, according to AT's data - and in one instance in 2023, a bus operator took three hours to notify AT's operations team that it had cancelled services on a route due to weather conditions.There have also been multiple instances when children have been stranded due to school bus services not arriving on time, between 2021 and 2024, the report found.The Deputy-Auditor General Andrew McConnell acknowledged that AT manages between 67 and 144 disruptions every day - including planned ones - across its high volume of services, but he stressed that the organisation had a responsibility to provide people with clear and accurate information."Frequent disruptions can undermine public confidence in the public transport system and people's willingness to use it," McConnell said.Unplanned disruptions include bus delays, diversions due to traffic accidents, cancellations due to severe weather, breakdowns and mechanical issues.McConnell said that while AT had a mobile app accessed by 300,000 people monthly, and 970 digital displays across 15 percent of its stops, the information on these portals were not always accurate.Outdated technology and complex manual systemsThe Deputy-Auditor General highlighted AT's problematic reliance on a largely manual system and outdated technology for managing disruptions.He said this had limited AT's capacity to communicate unplanned disruptions out-of-hours, and to identify issues in a timely manner.AT has a "disruption communication system map" which consultants have described as the most complex they have ever mapped.Informing the public about an unplanned rail disruption could involve up to 20 different people across AT, KiwiRail and Auckland One Rail.The OAG has been told that only 3 percent of the actions were automated.The OAG has also been told by AT staff that sometimes they must rely on others - including operators and members of the public - to alert them to what was happening on the network.The report said the manual processes meant that AT provided limited, or sometimes no information, about unplanned disruptions that happened outside of its business hours.McConnell has given AT a number of recommendations, including reviewing the information it holds about passengers' experience to make improvements, and be more specific on how it will learn from its reviews to better manage disruptions.He said AT was aware of what it needed to improve its communications around disruptions based on its own surveys and research.McConnell acknowledged that AT had a programme underway to address these issues.