The Coalition Government is expediting the construction of a four-lane expressway between Auckland and Whangārei.This project, part of the Roads of National Significance programme, is set to enhance economic growth in Northland by improving transport connections, says Transport Minister Simeon Brown.“For too long, the lack of resilient transport connections between Northland and the rest of the country has been a handbrake on the region’s economic development.The last Government’s decision to stop planning for a replacement to the Brynderwyns has left Northland more vulnerable and requires a significant amount of work to get this project back on track,” Mr Brown says.The Government has endorsed an accelerated delivery strategy enabling the NZ Transport Agency (NZTA) to efficiently execute the project.The strategy involves a public-private partnership model, which will integrate planning, procurement, design, and construction across the entire roading corridor.“Delivering a programme as large and complex as this at pace requires a significant shift in delivery approach. An accelerated delivery strategy developed by NZTA includes a progressive public-private partnership model that will achieve efficiencies and innovation in planning, procurement, design, and construction across the entire roading corridor between Auckland and Whangārei,” Mr Brown explains.This corridor approach is expected to cut down multiple procurement processes and provide integrated design and construction, potentially completing the project up to 10 years sooner than traditional methods.The Government is also considering legislative changes to speed up the project’s delivery.This could involve modifications to the Public Works Act to streamline processes.The Northland Expressway is anticipated to be one of New Zealand’s largest infrastructure undertakings.Funding, financing, and innovative delivery tools are being explored to ensure timely completion.Last year, a report by NZIER commissioned by the Northland Corporate Group highlighted that the Warkworth to Wellsford section alone could boost New Zealand’s GDP by $497 million annually.Once finished, the expressway will offer a reliable and efficient link between Northland and Auckland, promoting economic growth and productivity in the region.“For too long, the lack of resilient transport connections between Northland and the rest of the country has been a handbrake on the region’s economic development,” Mr Brown reiterates.

Charities on the Hibiscus Coast will soon have a permanent option to conduct their fundraising lotteries online, as per a recent government decision. Minister of Internal Affairs Brooke van Velden announced that lotteries run by organisations such as the Heart Foundation, Coastguard NZ, and local hospices will not revert to traditional in-person or postal ticket sales.“Under current laws, these fundraising lotteries are only allowed to operate online until October 2024,” said van Velden. “This Government has taken action so that charities can operate their fundraising lotteries online permanently in an increasingly digital world.”Initially, these "class three" lotteries, characterised by prize values exceeding $5000, received a temporary exemption from the ban on "remote interactive gambling" during the COVID-19 response. This exemption, set to expire on 31 October 2024, allowed these lotteries to sell tickets online. Without a change, charities faced the prospect of losing customers and increasing operational costs, potentially reducing the funds available for community purposes.“These lotteries are a significant source of funding for some charities and pose a very low risk of causing harm,” van Velden assured. “During the time the temporary exemption has been in place, people have not been presenting for gambling harm from these types of lotteries.”The bill, aimed to be passed before the October deadline, seeks to provide certainty for these non-profit organisations. “This minor amendment will make a significant difference to the non-profit organisations which use the revenue from lotteries to carry out their services to the community,” van Velden added.Charities can now plan their future fundraising efforts with the knowledge that their ability to sell lottery tickets online will continue uninterrupted.

The Commerce Commission is examining the possibility of slashing costs associated with Mastercard and Visa payment networks, potentially saving New Zealanders hundreds of millions of dollars annually. This initiative aims to address the high fees currently impacting both businesses and consumers.Commission Chair Dr John Small highlighted that New Zealanders spend approximately NZ$95 billion each year using these card networks. However, the associated costs amount to around NZ$1 billion annually, which is ultimately passed on to consumers through higher prices and surcharges. Dr Small suggests that reducing these fees could save more than NZ$250 million each year.The Commission's focus is on reducing the ‘merchant service fee’ charged to businesses when cards are used without being inserted into a terminal. By addressing this component of the fee, the Commission aims to help businesses lower their retail prices and surcharges, benefiting consumers directly.“We see the opportunity to reduce a significant component of the merchant service fee,” Dr Small said. “This should allow businesses to reduce retail prices and surcharges, which would be advantageous for their customers.”In addition to fee reductions, the Commission is considering simplifying the complex fee structure to make it easier to identify and address excessive surcharges. Dr Small noted that simplifying these fees could potentially eliminate surcharges altogether in some cases, ensuring they reflect only the true cost of accepting card payments.The consultation also explores other issues, such as a lack of innovation in payment options due to slow advancements in open banking. The Commission aims to enhance both the affordability and variety of payment methods available to consumers and businesses.The public is invited to provide feedback on these issues by 4 pm on 20 August 2024. Feedback can be provided via this form which is tailored to consumers and merchants. Alternatively responses can be submitted to [email protected] using the submission template found here.

Orewa businesses are facing tough times as rising costs and reduced consumer spending weigh heavily on local shops.Hellen Wilkins, Destination Orewa Beach Business Association Manager, highlighted that in the December 2023 Orewa business survey revealed significant challenges. Businesses reported 'reduced customer spend' and 'supplier cost increases,' with most performing worse in 2023 compared to 2022.However, many are optimistic about 2024, expecting better performance next year.Businesses in the area report that customer spending priorities have shifted due to increased mortgage costs and a higher cost of living, leading to a notable decline in sales. "They simply don’t have money to spend right now," said Wilkins.Despite these difficulties, Wilkins expressed optimism for the future. "Once the weather fines up, there will be more foot traffic in town," she noted, hoping that increased visitor numbers will boost retail sales. She also mentioned that if mortgage rates start decreasing from February, this could lead to higher consumer spending.Data from Paymark shows Orewa is faring better than many other town centres. Additionally, Orewa has seen a demographic shift, with more young families and first homeowners moving in from the North Shore.This change is expected to positively impact the local economy in the long term.In more good news, Destination Orewa has a busy schedule of events planned to attract visitors and stimulate local spending, adding to the community's hope for a more prosperous year ahead.Watch this space.

Transport planning in New Zealand remains a contentious issue, with recent debates focusing on the balance between political influence and technical expertise.According to Professor Imran Muhammad of Massey University, the politicisation of transport planning is unavoidable. "Transport policy and planning are always political," he stated, citing examples such as the cancellation of Auckland's Light Rail Project and the adjustments to the Government Policy Statement of 2024.The importance of understanding power dynamics in transport projects was highlighted by Professor Bent Flyvbjerg from Oxford University. He argued that beyond technical knowledge, there is a need to explore societal power relations, asking, "who gains and who loses by advancing a particular transport project?"New Zealand's recent transport projects, such as Transmission Gully and the City Rail Link, have faced significant challenges. These include budget overruns and delays exacerbated by global issues like the COVID-19 pandemic and the Ukraine conflict."Most transport projects go over budget and over schedule," Professor Muhammad noted, emphasising the inherent uncertainties and complexities of large-scale transport initiatives.To define a successful transport project, Professor Harry Dimitriou from University College London proposed a multidimensional approach. He suggested that success should encompass environmental, economic, social, and institutional sustainability.Additionally, Dr Crystal Legacy of Melbourne University called for the re-politicisation of transport planning, advocating for coalitions and collective will to create opportunities for meaningful change. She stressed the importance of engaging the public and professionals in the process.Looking ahead, Professor Muhammad emphasised the need for New Zealand to consider Tiriti o Waitangi-led responsibilities in future transport planning. He called for the integration of Māori communities' experiences and sociocultural values into transport policies.As New Zealand navigates the complexities of transport planning, the ongoing debate underscores the necessity for political and technical collaboration to achieve sustainable and equitable outcomes.

In a significant move to address ongoing financial difficulties, Health Minister Dr Shane Reti announced today the appointment of Professor Lester Levy as Commissioner of Health New Zealand. This decision comes in response to serious concerns over oversight, overspending, and a deteriorating financial outlook at Health NZ.Dr Reti revealed that Health NZ’s financial situation had worsened significantly since March 2024. Despite assurances that savings would be achieved in the 2023/24 financial year, the organisation is currently overspending at a rate of approximately $130 million per month. The situation is expected to lead to an estimated deficit of $1.4 billion by the end of the 2024/25 financial year."The previous government's health reforms created significant challenges that require urgent action," Dr Reti said. "Professor Levy will implement a turnaround plan with a goal of saving around $1.4 billion and strengthening governance and management."The reforms, which led to an overly centralised operating model and fragmented administrative systems, have been criticised for their impact on financial performance and oversight. The Commissioner will focus on reducing back-office bureaucracy and improving cost efficiencies, particularly in middle management, which saw a significant increase in staffing levels under the previous government.Dr Reti emphasised that the appointment is not a reflection on the work of frontline staff. The Ministry of Health will continue to monitor the situation and report on the Commissioner’s progress.

Locals across the Hibiscus Coast are adapting to economic challenges by embracing innovative marketing approaches to stay competitive.According to the Chartered Institute of Marketing in the UK, consistent brand awareness is crucial during economic downturns.By adopting creative strategies, businesses can increase visibility, showcase unique offerings, and engage customers more effectively.A Harvard Business Review study found that businesses that continue marketing efforts during economic downturns recover faster and achieve higher growth post-recession.Similarly, a Deloitte report indicated that companies investing in innovation during a recession emerge stronger and more profitable.Experts recommend exploring digital media and community-based initiatives to enhance outreach.The Hibiscus Coast App, a hyperlocal digital platform, offers features to support businesses in their marketing efforts.Targeted Advertising: Businesses can advertise in the app to reach a wider audience, stay top-of-mind with customers, and drive sales.Business Listing: By listing their business in the app, local enterprises can increase their online visibility, appearing in search results when customers look for products or services they provide.By leveraging these features, businesses can foster long-term success and remain resilient and relevant in the face of economic challenges.Ready to boost your business's online presence? Learn more and sign up for the Hibiscus Coast App here.

Temporary traffic management contractors are on notice as Mayor Wayne Brown seeks to address the proliferation of road signs and cones in Auckland.Mayor Brown has commissioned a report to the Government, highlighting the need for changes to the rules governing road signs.The Mayor has expressed frustration, stating that the current situation is "not only a waste of money, it's annoying to people".It's estimated that there are approximately 1 million road cones in use across New Zealand, sparking calls for reform.

Auckland city saw substantial growth in its housing market in May 2024, with a total of 1,276 dwellings consented, reflecting a robust housing sector, according to the Auckland Council Spatial Analysis and Modelling Team.In the year ending May 2024, 14,488 dwellings were consented in the region. Of the new dwellings consented in May, 34 per cent were houses, 5 per cent were apartments, and 61 per cent were townhouses, flats, units, retirement village units, or other types of attached dwellings.Additionally, 15 dwellings were consented on Kāinga Ora or Tāmaki Regeneration Company-owned land. Notably, 1,184 dwellings consented in May were within the Rural Urban Boundary (RUB), with 95 per cent of the year's new dwellings also inside the RUB. Twenty per cent of the dwellings consented were within 1,500m of the rapid transit network.Hazard zones saw 89 dwellings consented, accounting for 8 per cent of May’s total. Over the past 12 months, 12 per cent of new dwellings were consented on properties overlapping hazard zones.May also witnessed the completion of 1,683 dwellings, with a Code Compliance Certificate (CCC) issued. For the year ending May 2024, 19,560 dwellings had a CCC issued, indicating a strong completion rate.Residential development continued robustly with 1,328 new residential parcels under 5,000m² created in June 2024, averaging 1,313 each month over the past year. Long-term arrivals in April 2024 totalled 4,622, contributing to the housing demand.For local residents, this surge in housing consents means an increase in available housing options, potentially easing the pressure on the housing market. With more dwellings being developed, residents may see more diverse and affordable housing opportunities. The focus on building within the RUB and near transit networks also suggests improved accessibility and connectivity for future residents. Additionally, the completion of a high number of dwellings indicates that many new homes are ready for occupancy, offering immediate housing solutions for those in need.

My Food Bag has issued recall notices for sesame seed products across three weeks of its meal programme, due to the possible presence of salmonella.In an email to customers, the meal-kit home-delivery service said 17 items from recent deliveries - including dressings, pastes and sauces - were affected.Photo: My Food Bag / RNZThe products would have been in deliveries dating from 6 July to their latest delivery, which would have started arriving on Saturday 20 July, My Food Bag said."For your safety, if you have not consumed any of these products, please refrain from consuming them and dispose of them immediately."If you have consumed any of these products and have any concerns, we recommend seeking medical advice."My Food Bag said if the ingredients had not been used, customers could seek a credit."Please rest assured that we are working closely with our supplier and MPI to address the issue and prevent any further incidents."On Thursday, the Ministry of Primary Industries said it was supporting Davis Trading Company in its recall of their imported Sesame Seed Kernels White Hulled retail packs due to the possible presence of salmonella.In its recall notice, MPI said the affected product was sold at Davis Food Ingredients in Auckland, who on-sold it to supermarkets and smaller retailers nationwide.Since then, it had updated the list of products affected by the recall."New Zealand Food Safety is in the process of working with the food business to trace the product and further recalls are a possibility," the recall notice said."Symptoms of salmonellosis appear within 12 to 72 hours and include abdominal cramps, diarrhoea, fever, headache, nausea, and vomiting. Illness usually lasts between 4 and 7 days but, in more severe cases, it can go on for up to 10 days and cause more serious illness."If you have consumed any of the product and are concerned for your health, contact your health professional, or call Healthline on 0800 61 11 16."New Zealand Food Safety said it had not received any notifications of associated illness.

Job ads across New Zealand fell by 8% in June, continuing a downward trend observed since February, according to the SEEK Employment Report released last week. The annual decline now stands at 35%, reflecting a challenging market for job seekers."It is a pretty tough market for jobseekers at the moment, with demand for workers declining in almost all regions and in most of our largest industries," said Rob Clark, SEEK NZ Country Manager.Southland was the only region to see an increase in job ad volumes, up by 3%, primarily driven by a rise in Manufacturing, Transport & Logistics roles. Conversely, Auckland, Wellington, and Canterbury saw significant declines, with job ads down by 8%, 9%, and 7%, respectively.The largest industry, Trades & Services, saw a double-digit decline of 12%, contributing significantly to the overall fall. Retail & Consumer Products experienced the steepest drop at 18%. However, some sectors such as Consulting & Strategy and Banking & Financial Services bucked the trend, with ad volumes rising by 9% and 2%, respectively.Applications per job ad increased by 1% in May, indicating a competitive job market, especially in sectors like Retail & Consumer Products, where applications per ad have more than doubled since last year. Clark noted that the Matariki public holiday and ongoing economic pressures contributed to the hiring slowdown.

Auckland Council is urging dog owners to register their pets by August 1 to support essential animal management services. Registration helps fund 24-hour responses to dog incidents and provides for dog shelters.Council's Regulatory and Safety Committee Chair Josephine Bartley highlights that while many dog owners are responsible, registration numbers have fallen this year, increasing demand on animal management services. "Last year, over 50% of dogs in our shelters were unregistered, complicating reunification efforts," she said. "We need owners to register, desex, microchip, and control their dogs to prevent issues like attacks."Animal Management Manager Elly Waitoa notes that registration is a user-pays service covering costs of keeping the community safe from dog-related nuisances. "Owners who don’t register leave others to bear the cost. We've simplified the process; renew online or visit our service centres."Auckland has 133,801 known dogs, but only 41% were registered by July 11, 2024, compared to 63% last year. Registration fees also support investigations of dog attacks, roaming complaints, park patrols, welfare calls, adoptions, and education on dog safety. Owners who fail to register risk a $300 fine and potential impounding of their dogs.For lost registration paperwork, call Auckland Council at 09 301 0101 for assistance.

State Highway 1 through the Brynderwyn Hills, between Kaiwaka and Waipū, has been closed after heavy rain caused some slips onto the road."We have crews on site working to clear the road as quickly as it is safe to do so," NZTA said in a statement just after 3pm.The agency said they were monitoring the hill for any more movement and would only reopen the road when it is determined to be safe.Another update was due around 6pm, the agency said.The route is Northland's main connection with the rest of the country, and only reopened in June after a four-month closure due to earlier slips.NZTA project director for Northland recovery Mark Ware said heavy rain overnight had caused the slips.Machinery was on site to move the soil, he said.There was a detour in place for cars and other light vehicles detour via Nova Scotia Drive, Cove Road, Garbolino Road, and Kaiwaka-Mangawhai Road.In an earlier statement, NZTA said because it was a "significant slip", the detour was not suitable for trucks; instead, they needed to detour via State Highway 12 and SH14."We have been advised by our council partners that Paparoa Oakley Road is unsuitable for freight at this time as there has been a significant under slip on the road."NZTA would continue to monitor the routes and provide updates.It advised drivers to check road and weather conditions before they travelled.

NZTA has scheduled maintenance work on State Highway 1 (SH1) from Silverdale to Oteha Valley Road from Sunday, 21 July, to Tuesday, 23 July, between 9 pm and 5 am.The southbound lanes will be closed during the specified hours.The Silverdale southbound on-ramp and Oteha Valley Road southbound off-ramp will be closed.Motorists are advised to use the recommended detour via Dairy Flat Highway and Oteha Valley Road to avoid disruptions.

Auckland Council has invested heavily in community assets over the past year, spending $208 million on new infrastructure and renewals across Auckland. The council's capital works budget has funded a range of projects, from playgrounds and sports facilities to seismic upgrades and regional parks.Local boards and the Planning, Environment and Parks Committee approved the projects, which aim to provide Aucklanders with spaces to connect, stay active, and enjoy leisure activities. Councillor Richard Hills, chair of the Planning, Environment and Parks Committees, expressed pride in the council's accomplishments. "We are committed to renewing existing assets and creating more great infrastructure to meet the future needs of Auckland's growing population," he said.One notable project on the Hibiscus Coast is the brand-new workshop building at Shakespear Regional Park, which includes solar panels to power the site. At Shakespear Regional Park a brand-new workshop building that will house machinery and equipment was built.

People are being urged not to consume certain sesame seeds due to a possible salmonella contamination.New Zealand Food Safety is assisting Davis Trading Company with the recall of their imported Sesame Seed Kernels White Hulled retail packs, batch number AAI/3890 and P.O. No 780004. "Salmonellosis can be serious, so it’s important that people do not consume this product," said deputy director-general Vincent Arbuckle. "If you can’t return it to the place of purchase, you should throw it out."The affected sesame seeds are sold at Davis Food Ingredients in Auckland and distributed to supermarkets and smaller retailers nationwide. New Zealand Food Safety is working with Davis Trading Company to trace the product, and further recalls are possible.Symptoms of salmonellosis, which appear within 12 to 72 hours, include abdominal cramps, diarrhoea, fever, headache, nausea, and vomiting. The illness usually lasts between 4 to 7 days but can extend up to 10 days in severe cases. If you have consumed the product and are concerned, contact your health professional or call Healthline on 0800 61 11 16.No illnesses have been reported so far. The product, imported from India, was identified through routine testing and removed from store shelves. "As is our usual practice, New Zealand Food Safety will work with Davis Trading Company to understand how the contamination occurred and prevent its recurrence," Mr Arbuckle added.For updates and more information, visit New Zealand Food Safety’s recall page.

In a bid to enhance road safety and efficiency, the Coalition Government has committed to fixing potholes on state highways within 24 hours. Transport Minister Simeon Brown announced new targets to ensure quicker identification and repair of potholes, benefiting Kiwis and freight operators."Boosting pothole repairs and prevention will deliver a safe and efficient network," said Brown. "Our Government has inherited a significant backlog of road maintenance, and we are catching up to ensure that Kiwis and freight can travel quickly and safely."As part of the Pothole Prevention Fund, the Government has set targets for the NZ Transport Agency (NZTA) and roading contractors. These targets include repairing 95% of potholes on High Volume, National, and Arterial state highways within 24 hours, and 85% of potholes on Regional, Primary Collector, and Secondary Collector state highways within the same timeframe."Achieving these targets will reduce the number of potholes on our roads," Brown noted. "The use of premium materials, innovative technology, and increased resources will prevent potholes from reoccurring in the same locations."The targets will be implemented through NZTA's State Highway Pothole Prevention Activity Class, with a record 91% funding boost for the next three years. Automated real-time reporting will track progress from 1 August, with NZTA holding daily operational calls with suppliers to monitor performance.Brown encouraged New Zealanders to report potholes by calling 0800 44 44 49, emphasising the importance of community involvement in maintaining road safety.

Coasties are advised to exercise extra caution on the roads tonight as a Heavy Rain Watch takes effect in Northland and North Auckland from 8 pm to 8 am Saturday. The NZ Transport Agency, Waka Kotahi (NZTA), urges drivers to be vigilant due to the potential for surface flooding and slips on already saturated roads.The agency is closely monitoring the state highway network, with crews on standby to respond quickly if needed. Motorists are advised to check the Waka Kotahi Journey Planner website for up-to-date information on road closures before embarking on their journey.The heavy rain is expected to continue overnight, and drivers are cautioned to plan ahead and drive safely. Stay informed, and stay safe.

The Hibiscus Coast received significant news today as Auckland Council reaffirmed its commitment to upholding the 999-year encumbrance on the Gulf Harbour Country Club (GHCC) golf course. The encumbrance mandates that the land be exclusively used as a golf course and country club, preventing any potential housing development.Phil Wilson, Council CEO, confirmed in a letter to Long River Investments Ltd., the company owning the GHCC land, that the Council supports maintaining the encumbrance. This decision reflects the overwhelming support from the Whangaparāoa community to preserve the green space."Council's support is a major development," said Howard Baldwin, spokesperson for Keep Whangaparāoa’s Green Spaces (KWGS). "This reflects the community's strong desire to stop any housing development on the golf course land."In addition to the encumbrance, the Council has invoiced Long River approximately $200,000 for demolition work on the clubhouse buildings destroyed by recent fires and demands compliance with the encumbrance's terms, including maintaining the golf course and removing freedom campers.KWGS expressed concerns that Long River might apply for housing consent under the government’s Fast Track Approval legislation. They have written to Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and several ministers, urging them to deny any such application, citing the encumbrance as a reason to defer decisions to Auckland Council.KWGS plans to inform the US-based equity company funding Long River and other mortgagees of the Council's stance, considering it a significant step towards restoring the iconic golf course to its former glory.