Coasties, with Auckland entering its busiest travel period, commuters can expect increased traffic on the roads and packed buses, trains, and ferries. As offices, universities, and schools are back in full swing, getting to work or study on time requires a bit of extra planning. Whether you’re driving or taking public transport, Auckland Transport (AT) has some essential tips to help you manage your journey this March.Simon Buxton, AT's Director of Customer and Network Performance, advises drivers to plan ahead and allow extra time for their journeys. With thousands of vehicles on the road, patience is key.“You’ll be sharing the roads with hundreds of thousands of others,” Buxton explains. “Check traffic updates online before you head out and consider alternate routes to avoid congestion on the motorways and main arterial roads.”Car-pooling is another suggestion to ease the burden on Auckland’s roads. “If possible, travel with friends or colleagues to access T2 or T3 lanes and cut down on your travel time,” Buxton says. And for those who are keen on an alternative mode of transport, cycling is a great option, especially with Auckland’s favourable weather and cycle-friendly infrastructure.With demand for public transport expected to spike, AT has made several key adjustments to ensure buses, trains, and ferries can handle the increased volume. Rachel Cara, AT's Group Manager of Public Transport Operations, highlights the preparations in place.“We’ve been planning for this busy period since March last year and have made permanent changes to improve capacity,” says Cara. “We’ve added additional buses and increased bus sizes on key routes, so we are ready to handle the demand.”Public transport will be at its busiest during peak hours (7 am–9 am and 3 pm–6 pm), with Wednesdays typically being the busiest day.Despite the surge in passengers, Cara remains confident that Auckland's network can handle the load.To help ease congestion on both roads and public transport, AT asks commuters to stay patient and considerate.For drivers, Buxton advises being cautious and understanding of the heavy traffic. On public transport, Cara encourages passengers to be mindful of space. “If you’re standing on a busy bus or train, please move down as far as possible to make room for others,” she suggests. “Also, avoid taking up a seat with your bag or sitting in the aisle seat if the window seat is free.”Cara also encourages passengers to use contactless payment or an AT HOP card when tagging on and off. This helps AT track passenger numbers, make adjustments to services, and improve capacity management.By planning ahead and being considerate of others, Coasties can contribute to a smoother and more efficient commute during this busy time.Have a story to share from your neighbourhood? We’d love to hear from you! Send your news tips and stories to [email protected]

Takapuna Golf Course, a cornerstone of New Zealand’s golf scene and a draw for over 200,000 visitors annually, could soon face major changes under a new proposal from Auckland Council. The plan aims to convert over half of the iconic 18-hole course into a wetland reservoir designed to tackle future flooding in the area.The golf course, which has hosted PGA champions and numerous Kiwi golf legends, is known for being an accessible venue for both beginners and families. It’s often regarded as a gateway course for those new to the sport, with many first-time players enjoying its relaxed atmosphere and welcoming environment.The course also holds considerable economic importance, attracting more than 500 visitors per day, many of whom contribute significantly to Auckland’s local economy through accommodation, dining, and tourism-related spending.Stephen Dowd, a spokesperson for Takapuna Golf Club, expressed strong opposition to the council's plan, citing the millions of dollars invested in the course over the past two decades. Dowd highlighted that negotiations for lease renewals were halted just before the council revealed its proposal for the wetland conversion.While the council suggests that turning part of the course into a reservoir will help reduce flooding, Dowd argues that this solution could be unnecessary. He pointed to international examples where golf courses have successfully incorporated flood mitigation measures without completely redesigning or closing down the course.“Courses around the world are finding ways to integrate water catchment into their existing layouts,” Dowd said. “We believe there’s still significant potential for smaller wetland additions, rather than one large reservoir, which could both preserve the golf course and offer increased flood protection.”The Takapuna Golf Club has been a key part of Auckland’s golfing infrastructure for generations, and Dowd expressed concern that replacing it could deprive future golfers of a vital entry-level course.For Hibiscus Coast residents, this development may hit close to home, as many locals have played at Takapuna, which is known for its accessibility and relaxed pace. As the proposal moves forward, it’s important for residents to stay informed about potential impacts and contribute to the conversation about the future of this much-loved golf course.Have a story to share from your neighbourhood? We’d love to hear from you! Send your news tips and stories to [email protected]

New Zealand Police will soon offer training opportunities for new recruits in Auckland, aiming to meet the growing demand for officers in the city. Police Commissioner Richard Chambers made the announcement ahead of running in the Auckland Round the Bays event on Sunday, emphasising the significance of the move in enhancing local recruitment efforts.The new Auckland training base, in addition to the existing Royal New Zealand Police College (RNZPC), is a key step towards the government’s goal of increasing the number of officers by 500. “Having a training wing open in Auckland is an important part of our plan,” said Commissioner Chambers. “It will increase our training capacity and open the doors for even more quality applicants.”The decision to establish a training centre in Auckland is in response to feedback from potential recruits who found it difficult to commit to the RNZPC due to the requirement of being away from home for 20 weeks. This new location will allow recruits to train closer to their communities, enabling them to feel more connected to the areas they will serve upon graduation.“This will open the door to their dream job that might not otherwise have been possible,” Commissioner Chambers added. “Recruits can now stay at home during their training, making it easier for them to balance personal and professional commitments.”The Auckland base will also serve as a hub for senior courses, ensuring that recruits can progress quickly through the system. The Police are confident that the new base will help speed up the recruitment process, with the median time between application and starting training at RNZPC already reduced by more than 90 days in the past year.From tomorrow, prospective recruits can specify their preference for Auckland training when applying online via Newcops.govt.nzThe exact location of the new facility is still being finalised and will be announced shortly.Chambers also revealed that the number of applicants has surged, with 5,277 applications received from July to December 2024 — more than double the number from the same period in 2023. “We’re making our recruitment process more agile and fit-for-purpose,” he said, noting the successful update of the application criteria and the popularity of the recruitment campaigns, including the return of the iconic 90s advertisement.The Police’s focus on increasing recruitment and expanding the talent pool is part of their ongoing commitment to ensuring public safety and reducing crime. The new Auckland training base is a vital part of this effort, with Police determined to meet their goal of adding 500 new officers to the force.Have a story to share from your neighbourhood? We’d love to hear from you! Send your news tips and stories to [email protected]

Auckland small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) are receiving a helping hand in preparing for the challenges posed by climate change, thanks to the launch of the ClimateWise digital tool. Developed by Climate Connect Aotearoa, the platform aims to support local businesses in identifying and managing climate-related risks, a critical need underscored by the devastating weather events of 2023.ClimateWise was launched by Tātaki Auckland Unlimited, the economic and cultural agency of Auckland Council, to provide free, practical tools and resources for businesses. With SMEs accounting for a massive 98.7% of Auckland's business community, the platform addresses the gap in climate resilience support for smaller operations. Parin Rafiei-Thompson, Head of Climate Innovation and Sustainability at Tātaki Auckland Unlimited, explained that SMEs are the backbone of the region's economy but often lack the necessary resources to prepare for climate impacts. "This platform provides user-friendly, accessible tools to help business owners identify risks and opportunities, protect their operations, strengthen supply chain resilience, and develop robust plans,” Rafiei-Thompson said.The tool’s development involved extensive collaboration with experts in climate resilience and various business networks, including the Sustainable Business Network and Tonkin + Taylor. These partnerships, along with workshops with SMEs, helped ensure that the resources provided are practical, simple, and relevant to the diverse business community, including Māori and Pacific peoples’ businesses. Key features of the platform include video tutorials, downloadable templates for risk assessment and adaptation planning, and case studies highlighting how local businesses have successfully navigated extreme weather events. Charlotte Kootstra, Sustainability Manager for Climate and Environment at the Sustainable Business Council, emphasised the importance of preparedness in supply chains: "Suppliers with a climate adaptation plan signal to their customers that there is a lower risk of disruption to the flow of products or services, particularly during adverse weather events."The platform’s launch aligns with Auckland's wider climate goals as outlined in the city’s Climate Plan, which targets a 50% reduction in emissions by 2030. As part of its ongoing efforts, the Climate Connect Aotearoa initiative plans a second phase of the project in 2025, featuring a 'train-the-trainer' programme to further build resilience capabilities within the community. For Hibiscus Coast residents involved in local businesses, the launch of ClimateWise is a timely opportunity to access tools that can safeguard against the growing risks of climate-related disruptions. By adopting these resources, businesses can not only protect their future but also contribute to a more resilient and sustainable Auckland.The ClimateWise platform offers a valuable resource to Auckland’s SMEs, empowering them to better manage climate-related risks and strengthen their operations. Local businesses on the Hibiscus Coast are encouraged to take advantage of the free tools available at learn.climateconnectnz.com to begin their journey towards climate resilience.Have a story to share from your neighbourhood? We’d love to hear from you! Send your news tips and stories to [email protected]

If you missed part 1 and 2 from previous months, don't hesitate to call MTF Silverdale now, or review previous month's articles under this segment of the Hibiscus Coast App. PPSR The Person Property Securities Register (PPSR) is a list of all high value items that Kiwis own, along with any lender that are currently using them as security. It exists so that MTF, as well as other lenders, can tell if another lender has a security interest over an asset that you may own or are looking to purchase on finance or to raise fund on that asset. Principal The principal is the total amount that you borrow, at the start of the loan. It does not include the interest - this is calculated and charged separately. Security When you apply for personal or business finance, you may need to provide an asset - like your car, home, or business equipment - as "security" for the loan. This means that if you don't make your payments, the lender has the right to repossess the asset. This gives the lender more confidence and lowers their risk, which can make them more comfortable offering the loan. In most cases, MTF use the vehicle you're purchasing as security. Settlement Loan settlement is paying back the total amount you owe - like settling your tab! Shortfall Insurance shortfall is something that we all want to avoid. It happens when your vehicle gets written off, and the amount your insurance company pays out is less than the amount you have left on your loan. There are ways to avoid this kind of problem, give us a call on 09 4210335 if you'd like it explained further. Terms The terms of a loan set out the agreement between the lender and the borrower, and both parties must agree to the terms before a loan can be legally binding.It's vitally important you understand the terms of a loan before signing, and the lender is legally obliged to ensure you understand before a loan can be written. Waiver If you waive something, that means you decide not to enforce it or use your rights to it. When MTF say "Waiver" we are normally taking about our Payment Waiver product, an optional protection that you can choose to include in your loan. When we offer a payment waiver, we are saying: "We know that we have signed a contract with you, but if this specific thing happens, we are not going to enforce the contract. "For example, if your payment waiver includes redundancy cover and you are made redundant then we will waive your repayments while you get back on your feet. Was the above useful? We hope this has helped you to cut through the jargon - it's important to us that you understand the language and feel comfortable and confident about your lending. If we've missed something, or there's another term you'd like to know more about, please call in and talk to us or give us a quick call. You are protected by responsible lending laws. Because of these protections, the content above is not regulated financial advice. This means that duties and requirements imposed on people who give financial advice do not apply to this content. This includes a duty to comply with a code on conduct and a requirement to be licensed. Now that you have a better understanding of borrowing money, why not contact MTF Silverdale by either emailing us at [email protected], call us, or pop into our office for a chat to get pre-approved for your next purchase or financial need.

Welcome to The Week That Was—your go-to recap of the most important news, stories, and updates for the Hibiscus Coast community.New Boxing Gym Opens on Hibiscus Coast Read moreEarly Licence Renewal a Convenient Option for Senior DriversRead moreLocal Jobs You Can’t MissRead moreAuckland Council Issues Dog Registration FinesRead moreMercury Energy Announces Price Hike for CoastiesRead moreStay ahead of the curve—get the latest Hibiscus Coast news delivered directly to your phone.Download the Hibiscus Coast App today and never miss a story!Have a story to share from your neighbourhood? We’d love to hear from you! Send your news tips and stories to [email protected]

Construction progress on the Penlink project continues to move forward, with major milestones reached in the development of the Wēiti River bridge.As part of the update, New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) has provided details on upcoming closures and the latest in bridge construction.Wēiti River Bridge Construction ContinuesThe temporary staging platform, crucial for the bridge’s construction, has been in place since last July, with over 60 bored piles completed, including some of the largest marine piles in New Zealand.These piles require over 300m³ of concrete each.Periodic closures of the river have taken place to allow heavy machinery and materials to cross.A removable bridge section is now in place, limiting disruptions to river traffic by enabling brief closures.Construction on the V-Piers at Pier 3 is now underway. Once complete, the V-Piers will stand at over 60 metres, with further work continuing throughout 2025.Soon, the first parts of the bridge deck will be visible.Upcoming River Channel ClosureOn Thursday, 13 March, an intermittent closure of the river channel will occur while the piling rig is moved from the eastern side.This closure will last up to 24 hours, depending on weather conditions.During construction, short closures will also take place to safely lift suspended loads over the river, ensuring the safety of all river users.Cedar Terrace Intersection ClosureFrom Tuesday, 25 March, the intersection of Cedar Terrace with Whangaparaoa Road will be closed for about 12 months.Traffic will be rerouted via Scott and Norfolk Roads while the new alignment is built.Drivers are urged to comply with posted speed limits in the area.Stay updated on the latest developments and closure information via the Hibiscus Coast app.Have a story to share from your neighbourhood? We’d love to hear from you! Send your news tips and stories to [email protected]

Auckland Transport's confirmation of upcoming speed limit changes has been welcomed by Auckland Minister Simeon Brown, who says the move will improve travel times for Aucklanders while maintaining safety.The revised limits are part of a government-backed initiative to reverse Labour’s blanket speed limit reductions on key local streets and arterial roads.Mr Brown highlighted that the new changes would allow for faster travel during off-peak hours without compromising safety.“An overwhelming 57.8% of Auckland voters elected our Government, and we are delivering on this commitment,” he stated, noting that Labour’s previous speed limit reductions on roads like Weymouth Road would be reversed from 30km/h to 50km/h.The changes aim to strike a balance between ensuring slower speed limits near schools during pick-up and drop-off times and maintaining a smoother flow of traffic during other hours.Hibiscus Coast commuters can anticipate changes to speed limits on certain roads, which are intended to improve travel times.Specifically, urban connectors are among the roads where speed limits will be increased from 50km/h or 60km/h to 60km/h, 70km/h, or 80km/h.It's important to note that the exact roads affected and the specific changes to speed limits will be detailed in Auckland Transport's forthcoming communications.Auckland Transport has launched an interactive map which identifies the local roads where Labour’s blanket speed limit reductions will be reversed: https://experience.arcgis.com/experience/9174fbf158714d76b582b8bc6fe95dccHave a story to share from your neighbourhood? We’d love to hear from you! Send your news tips and stories to [email protected]

The Auckland Blues are determined to get back into the winners' circle when they face the Hurricanes in Wellington tonight, following a difficult start to the 2025 Super Rugby Pacific season.After losing 29-21 to the Highlanders last Saturday in a highly charged match at Forsyth Barr Stadium, the 2024 Super Rugby Pacific champions are now chasing their first victory of the year. Despite the loss, Blues coach Vern Cotter was pleased with his team’s performance in Dunedin and is hopeful for an even stronger showing in Wellington."We had a great start last week, but we need to put in an 80-minute performance," Cotter said. "We’ve had good starts against the Chiefs and the Highlanders, but now it’s time to build on those moments for the full 80 minutes."The Blues have made minimal changes to the starting line-up, with only one injury-related change. Lock Laghlan McWhannell is out due to a cheek injury, with Cam Christie named in the reserves, potentially set for his debut. Experienced halfback Sam Nock, who made an impact off the bench last season, is also included in the reserves for his first appearance of the season.Cotter emphasised that the Blues will face a tough physical challenge in Wellington, particularly against a Hurricanes side that has consistently been aggressive in previous encounters. "The Hurricanes were typically aggressive when we played them in pre-season, and I’m expecting another hard battle," he added. "We need to improve our set phase and collisions to match them."The match kicks off at 7:05 pm on Saturday in Wellington.Blues Starting Team (Caps in brackets):Ofa Tu’ungafasi (151), 2. Ricky Riccitelli (40), 3. Marcel Renata (55), 4. Patrick Tuipulotu (111) ©, 5. Josh Beere (12), 6. Cameron Suafoa (26), 7. Dalton Papali’i (85), 8. Hoskins Sotutu (67)Finlay Christie (56), 10. Harry Plummer (77), 11. Caleb Clarke (66), 12. AJ Lam (45), 13. Rieko Ioane (114), 14. Mark Tele’a (69), 15. Beauden Barrett (32).Reserves:16. James Mullan (1), 17. Joshua Fusitu’a (22), 18. Angus Ta’avao (67), 19. Cam Christie (Debut), 20. Anton Segner (25), 21. Sam Nock (73), 22. Corey Evans (15), 23. Cole Forbes (18).Players not considered:Kurt Eklund (groin), Sam Darry (shoulder, season), Laghlan McWhannell (cheek), PJ Sheck (shoulder), Zarn Sullivan (foot), Stephen Perofeta (calf), Ben Ake (shoulder), Reon Paul (shoulder), Taufa Funaki (shoulder), Adrian Choat (knee).Have a story to share from your neighbourhood? We’d love to hear from you! Send your news tips and stories to [email protected]

Auckland FC is gearing up for a key match this weekend, with a highly anticipated encounter against Adelaide United at Go Media Stadium.The game will kick off at 5 pm, marking an exciting moment for local fans.Off the field, the club has been busy bolstering its talent pool.Auckland FC recently made significant additions to its reserve team coaching staff with the appointment of Brian Shelly and Peter Shaw.Shelly joins as Head of the Development Centre and Assistant Coach of the Reserve Team, while Shaw takes up the role of Head of Athletic Development.Terry McFlynn, Auckland FC’s Director of Football, explained that these strategic moves are crucial for creating sustainable pathways for local talent.“These appointments reflect Auckland FC’s commitment to working with our TDP partners, fostering local talent, and developing player pathways to the first team and beyond,” McFlynn said.“Both Brian and Peter bring a wealth of experience when it comes to working with talented young players.”Shelly, who holds a UEFA A Licence, arrives with a wealth of coaching experience, including five years as Head of Football at Saint Kentigern College.His primary responsibility will be leading the club’s youth development system.McFlynn highlighted Shelly’s tactical strengths, adding that he would work closely with the team to instill a shared football philosophy.“Brian was a great professional who has successfully transitioned into coaching. He’ll be a fantastic mentor to the young players,” said McFlynn.Shelly will collaborate with Head Coach Steve Corica and Reserve Team Coach Luke Casserly to create a cohesive, talented team that can grow within the Auckland FC framework.Peter Shaw, who has an impressive background in rugby, having worked with the Chiefs, Hurricanes, and most recently Counties Manukau, will focus on the physical development of the players.His role will centre on ensuring that players are not only strong and conditioned but also equipped with the tools to prevent injuries.Together, Shelly and Shaw will help nurture the next generation of talent in New Zealand, ensuring that Auckland FC continues to build on its legacy while creating opportunities for local players to progress through the ranks.Have a story to share from your neighbourhood? We’d love to hear from you! Send your news tips and stories to [email protected]

Looking for plans?Explore events happening soon on the Hibiscus Coast and start planning your next activity!Moana Auckland Manu World ChampsSat 1 March.More details Landslide Fleetwood MacSat 1 March.More detailsOrewa Beach Sandcastle CompetitionSun 02 March.More details Want to see more events?Explore everything happening in our community on the Hibiscus Coast App.Have an event to share?Promote it for Free - click here!

Hibiscus Coast residents may have recently received an email from their electricity supplier, such as Mercury Energy, notifying them of a price increase set to take effect from 1 April 2025.This change, part of the company's annual review of its pricing structure, aims to reflect adjustments in the costs across the electricity supply chain.The increase will result in an estimated $0.45 per day increase for many customers, including GST, though the actual impact may vary depending on usage.Mercury Energy states that the new rates will be reflected in the daily fixed charge and per-kWh usage rates.Specifically, the daily fixed charge will rise from $1.20 to $1.50, and the cost of electricity usage (anytime rate) will increase from $0.2520 per kWh to $0.2655 per kWh.The company has simplified its billing structure, with the Electricity Market Fee no longer being separately itemised.Instead, it will be integrated into the variable rates that customers pay for the electricity they consume.These changes will appear from April, though the prices themselves exclude GST and are subject to discounts, which some customers may be eligible for.This price increase is part of wider changes in the electricity sector, including adjustments to transmission and distribution charges, driven by rising infrastructure costs and investment in the network.Additionally, the retail component of the bill has increased due to a rise in the cost of wholesale electricity.The Commerce Commission has set new revenue limits for Transpower and other lines companies, which will affect the cost of providing electricity from 1 April 2025.One notable shift for some residents will be the continued phase-out of the low user pricing plan, which began in 2022.This change, supported by the Government and the electricity sector, will gradually increase the daily fixed charge until it is fully phased out by 2027.Residents on the low fixed charge plan can expect weekly increases, with each $0.30 rise in the daily charge equating to an additional $2.10 per week.Locals should keep an eye on their upcoming bills for these changes, which will affect the overall cost of electricity from April onward.For further information, residents can visit the Commerce Commission website or contact Mercury Energy directly.Have a story to share from your neighbourhood? We’d love to hear from you! Send your news tips and stories to [email protected]

A new partnership between Sharesies and Air New Zealand’s Airpoints™ programme brings a unique opportunity for Kiwis to earn Airpoints Dollars while investing in their future. This collaboration marks the first time the airline has partnered with a wealth management platform.Through the partnership, Sharesies customers can now earn Airpoints Dollars for every $1,000 invested in Sharesies or on premiums paid for Sharesies car insurance. With many Sharesies users being keen travellers, the chance to earn rewards while building long-term wealth is expected to be a popular feature.Air New Zealand’s General Manager of Loyalty, Georgie Borowczyk, explained, “Sharesies is an innovative, homegrown brand passionate about supporting New Zealanders to build long-term wealth, and we’re thrilled to welcome them as our first partner in this space.” She added that the partnership offers Airpoints members a new way to earn rewards, whether they’re saving for their next trip or their retirement.Sharesies General Manager of Invest & Save, Scott Nixon, added that the ability to earn Airpoints Dollars from investments offers a fresh, appealing option for the platform’s users. “It means Airpoints Dollars can now be earned at the supermarket and on the stock market,” Nixon said.As part of the launch, Sharesies is offering a special promotion where customers can enter a prize draw to win a share of 20,000 Airpoints Dollars for every $5 they invest, auto-save, or save before 31 March 2025.Moving forward, Sharesies customers can earn one Airpoint Dollar for every $1,000 they invest through either a $7 or $15 monthly plan, and one Airpoint Dollar for every $100 paid in Sharesies car insurance premiums.This new partnership opens up a fresh avenue for Coasties to combine their financial goals with their travel aspirations, offering a way to make investments work for both their futures and their next adventure.Have a story to share from your neighbourhood? We’d love to hear from you! Send your news tips and stories to [email protected]

Auckland Council is embracing cutting-edge technology to enhance its customer experience with the launch of a new AI-powered digital assistant, ‘Ask Auckland Council’. The initiative, underpinned by Google Cloud technology, aims to simplify how Aucklanders access council services and information across multiple digital platforms.The pilot program, funded by Google Cloud and developed in partnership with Deloitte, will be trialled as part of a new phase of innovation led by the council’s Group Shared Services division. Presented at the Revenue, Expenditure and Value Committee meeting in February, the technology is expected to revolutionise how Aucklanders interact with the council, providing quicker, more efficient access to information.“It’s incredibly positive to see Auckland Council leading the way with new technology and innovation that holds great potential to deliver better service for all Aucklanders, at no cost to the ratepayer,” says Deputy Mayor Desley Simpson. “The scale of this makes it one of the largest applications of this technology in New Zealand and could be leveraged by other councils too.”The digital assistant will assist users in finding the information they need by centralising access across all council platforms.With over 1.5 million calls received annually by Auckland Council, and a large amount of region-wide services and information available online, navigating the council's systems can be a challenge for many.Ask Auckland Council will significantly reduce the effort involved in locating services and resources, providing Aucklanders with a seamless experience."We are thrilled to work alongside Auckland Council and Deloitte to help make information about public services more accessible for Aucklanders," says Paul Dearlove, head of Google Cloud, New Zealand. "By harnessing the power of Google Cloud’s AI platform, we are helping empower Aucklanders to easily find the information they are after, creating a more seamless and intuitive experience across Auckland Council's digital platforms."Auckland Council’s group shared services director, Richard Jarrett, explained that the technology is still in its prototype stage and will undergo careful testing to ensure its effectiveness.“Shifting from prototype to testing with Aucklanders is the next planned phase,” says Mr Jarrett.“Providing a single channel that is user-friendly and navigates our multiple websites will benefit Aucklanders, particularly when looking for information or help.”While the pilot will initially be in English, the long-term goal is for the tool to support multiple languages, reflecting New Zealand’s diverse, multicultural population. The council aims to introduce the tool in the country’s three official languages—English, Māori, and New Zealand Sign Language—before expanding further.“Over time, we will introduce additional languages, so it becomes a multilingual digital assistant that enables our customers to provide us with feedback, access the right information, and connect with the right council service,” says Mr Jarrett.The Ask Auckland Council assistant is expected to launch later this year, promising a more efficient, customer-friendly experience for Aucklanders and visitors alike.Have a story to share from your neighbourhood? We’d love to hear from you! Send your news tips and stories to [email protected]

Your weekend weather at a glance.Coasties, here’s what the next four days have in store:Friday, 28/2 Mainly sunny. Fairly breezy Easterly winds.High: 26Low: 17Saturday, 1/3Partly cloudy. Breezy Northerly winds.High: 25Low: 16Sunday, 2/3Partly cloudy. Breezy Sou'West winds.High: 26Low: 15Monday, 3/3Mainly sunny. Breezy West to Sou'West winds.High: 26Low: 16Looking for more 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!

Good news Coasties, Tourism continues to be a cornerstone of New Zealand’s economy, with international visitors spending a remarkable $16.9 billion in the 12 months leading to March 2024. This marks a return to pre-pandemic levels, nearly matching the $17.2 billion recorded in 2019. The latest Tourism Satellite Account (TSA) data released earlier this week by Stats NZ underscores tourism's position as New Zealand’s second-largest export earner.Total tourism expenditure reached an all-time high of $44.4 billion, reflecting a robust 14.6% growth from the previous year. This surge highlights the sector’s recovery and expansion post-pandemic, reinforcing its role in supporting economic growth, creating jobs, and sustaining vibrant communities across the country."International tourism is absolutely crucial for New Zealand’s economy, and the data released today proves this," says René de Monchy, Chief Executive of Tourism New Zealand. "Spending by international visitors drives growth, supports businesses, creates employment, and makes our cities and towns vibrant."While the numbers reflect a steady recovery, de Monchy emphasised that there remains room for growth. “New Zealand’s tourism industry has the capability and capacity to welcome more international visitors who will help to grow New Zealand’s economy," she adds.Tourism New Zealand’s strategy focuses on nurturing year-round tourism, particularly during off-peak seasons. “We are working to create a sustainable tourism sector that thrives 12 months a year, providing stable jobs and creating lasting memories for visitors,” says de Monchy. A key part of this effort is a new campaign in Australia, designed to encourage short-term arrivals during the upcoming Autumn season.In addition to its economic contribution, tourism supports over 300,000 jobs across the country, with 1 in 9 New Zealanders directly or indirectly employed in the sector. The TSA data reveals that total international visitor arrivals reached 3.2 million in the year ending March 2024, a significant 44.8% increase from the previous year.Australia, the USA, China, the UK, South Korea, and Germany are New Zealand's top six holiday markets, making up the largest portion of international visitor spend.The tourism sector’s ongoing success is a testament to the resilience and potential of New Zealand's tourism industry. With continued support and targeted campaigns, it’s poised to remain a driving force in the country’s economic future.Have a story to share from your neighbourhood? We’d love to hear from you! Send your news tips and stories to [email protected]

Port of Auckland continues to see positive results from its strategic focus on customer service, safety, and shareholder value. Under the leadership of Chief Executive Roger Gray and Board Chair Jan Dawson, the port has reported solid growth and achieved significant milestones in infrastructure development, safety, and community engagement. With a record half-year profit and plans for future growth, the port’s strategy is positioning it as a key player in Auckland's economic future.The port has achieved a 98% increase in its underlying net profit after tax (NPAT), reaching $42 million for the first half of FY24. This marks a significant jump from last year’s results, driven by a strong performance in container trade, which rose 8% year-on-year. Despite challenges in the vehicle and construction sectors, CEO Roger Gray is optimistic about recovery in these markets later in the year. “We have been providing an improved and more reliable service, and our location is the optimal route to market for many customers,” said Board Chair Jan Dawson. She also highlighted the port’s ongoing commitment to safety with the introduction of the Approved Code of Practice and other safety initiatives.Gray echoed this sentiment, stating that the port’s continued efforts to enhance safety and efficiency, including the launch of the Health and Safety Performance Index, are crucial to its long-term success. The company has also invested in reducing its environmental impact, with the introduction of an Electric Empty Container Handler funded by the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (EECA).Looking to the future, Port of Auckland has increased its full-year NPAT expectations to $75-80 million. This growth is supported by strong revenue, which has risen 20% to $195.4 million compared to the same period last year. The port has also reduced its net debt by over $15 million, contributing to its financial strength and ability to invest in future growth initiatives. In line with its growth strategy, the port has filed its consent application for the completion of the Bledisloe North and Fergusson North wharves, which will allow for larger ships and enhance Auckland's capacity to handle increasing freight and tourism demands.For Aucklanders, Port of Auckland’s continued growth brings multiple benefits, including improved infrastructure, greater access to the waterfront, and better support for the city’s growing freight and tourism needs. Have a story to share from your neighbourhood? We’d love to hear from you! Send your news tips and stories to [email protected]

Eke Panuku, Auckland’s urban regeneration agency, will be fully integrated into Auckland Council by 30 June, following a decision by the council’s Governing Body late last year. The move is part of a broader structural reform aimed at streamlining council-controlled organisations (CCOs).From July onwards, Eke Panuku will cease to operate as a separate entity, with its functions absorbed into Auckland Council. However, the council has assured residents that urban regeneration projects will continue without disruption. The focus remains on delivering high-quality, vibrant town centres across the region.A key proposal being explored is the creation of a dedicated Auckland Development Office within the council. This unit—currently a working title—would manage most of the functions previously handled by Eke Panuku. There is also potential for the office to incorporate other council functions related to property and urban development.Legal, financial, policy, and operational systems are undergoing significant review to ensure a seamless transition. In addition, a staff consultation on proposed organisational changes is planned for mid-March.The council has emphasised its commitment to keeping stakeholders informed throughout the process, with further updates expected as the transition unfolds.Have a story to share from your neighbourhood? We’d love to hear from you! Send your news tips and stories to [email protected]

Auckland Council is taking a firm stance against unregistered dogs, issuing over 5,500 infringement notices as a last resort after multiple attempts to encourage compliance. The fines come as part of a broader initiative to tackle issues such as roaming dogs and dog attacks in the region.Councillor Josephine Bartley, Chair of the Regulatory and Safety Committee, stressed that dog registration is not optional. "This is the first time we’ve moved to last resort measures and issued infringement notices. Dog registration is a legal requirement designed to benefit both the community and pet owners," she explained.The notices are targeted at dog owners who have failed to register their pets after receiving a pre-infringement reminder. Auckland Council previously sent 22,929 notices in November, which led to a noticeable increase in registrations and more accurate data on the dog population. The initiative aims to reduce the number of roaming dogs and prevent attacks, ensuring that pets are properly vaccinated, de-sexed, and contained on their owners’ properties.Council staff have been working with owners to ensure compliance, with infringement notices now being sent to those who ignored the previous reminders. "We appreciate those dog owners who responded to the pre-infringement notices and did the right thing by registering their dogs and paying the fee," said Councillor Bartley. "But for those who haven’t, this is the final warning."The $300 fines reflect the council’s ongoing commitment to responsible dog ownership, as well as the need to ease the burden on ratepayers. "Responsible dog ownership begins with dog registration. Ratepayers should not have to bear the cost of irresponsible dog owners who refuse to register their animals," she added.Auckland Council’s Animal Management Manager, Elly Waitoa, echoed this sentiment, acknowledging the positive response from many dog owners but reinforcing the need for continued compliance. "The number of unregistered dogs has now reduced, which is a significant improvement. However, too many owners have still ignored their responsibilities. Our goal is for all dog owners to register their pets rather than face a fine."The council is urging the remaining unregistered dog owners to act immediately to avoid penalties. Pet registration is not only a legal requirement but a crucial part of maintaining a safe community.For more information on dog registration and compliance, visit the Auckland Council website.Have a story to share from your neighbourhood? We’d love to hear from you! Send your news tips and stories to [email protected]