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

With winter school holidays in full swing, New Zealand Customs is encouraging Kiwis heading overseas—or returning home—to ditch the paper forms and complete their arrival declaration online.More than five million digital declarations have already been submitted, and Customs hopes even more travellers will give it a go these holidays.“It’s easy, it’s free, and it can be done within 24 hours of your flight,” says Holly Stringer, Manager of the New Zealand Traveller Declaration programme.“You can even save your details for next time.”The online form is available at travellerdeclaration.govt.nz or through the official app. It supports multiple languages, and those needing help can have someone complete it on their behalf.Across June, about 68 percent of New Zealand passport holders submitted their declaration digitally, compared to 73 percent of Australians. Customs is keen to see that local figure rise as more Kiwis get comfortable with the system.Stringer adds that digital is now the standard for most travel tasks. From booking tickets to ordering Ubers, and this is just one more way to streamline the journey.While most Coasties are more likely to head off from Auckland Airport, anyone travelling overseas will need to complete the declaration, so it’s worth spreading the word.If you're not flying, Customs is asking locals to let friends and family know—going digital makes everyone's arrival smoother.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

Looking for plans?Explore events happening soon on the Hibiscus Coast and start planning your next activity!Orewa Repair CafeSat, Jul 5More detailse-Waste Drop Off DaySat, Jul 5More detailsRural Rhythm Co-Op LaunchSat, Jul 5More detailsWant to see more events? Explore things to do in our community on the Hibiscus Coast App.Have an event to share?Promote it for FREE - click here

Drivers heading between Silverdale and Oteha Valley Road on State Highway 1 should expect delays and lane restrictions from 6 to 11 July, with works happening during both day and night hours.From Monday 7 to Friday 11 July, the southbound lanes between the Silverdale interchange and Oteha Valley Road will have restrictions between 11 AM and 7 PM daily. Traffic will still be able to head south, but reduced speeds and traffic management will be in place. Expect noise from slip remediation works during these hours.Northbound drivers will also be affected. From Sunday 6 to Thursday 10 July, lane restrictions will apply between 9 PM and 5 AM. Crews will be carrying out stormwater-related work during the night, and traffic management will remain in place throughout. While lanes will stay open, motorists are asked to slow down and follow all instructions.In addition, there will be full overnight closures in both directions between Oteha Valley Road and Silverdale interchange from Sunday 6 to Thursday 10 July (9 PM to 5 AM), due to works on the SH1 Penlink project.If you commute south for work, it’s worth planning ahead. Night works and lane closures could add delays to your usual route, especially during peak hours. With Penlink in full swing, these temporary disruptions are part of the long-term push to ease future congestion.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

Coasties, here’s what the next four days have in store:Friday, 4/7Thunderstorms could pop up later in the day. Warm, with a bit of a breeze from the north.High: 19Low: 13Saturday, 5/7Expect a few showers. Still breezy, with winds from the west.High: 17Low: 12Sunday, 6/7Some sunshine with a few clouds around. Light southerly breeze.High: 16Low: 9Monday, 7/7A mix of sun and cloud. Breezy easterlies to start the week.High: 15Low: 9Want more weather info? Tap into the full Weather & Travel section in the Hibiscus Coast App for:🌊 Tide times🌬️ Wind conditions🌊 Wave updates🌞 UV levels🏖️ Safe swimming spots...and plenty more.Everything you need, right here in the Hibiscus Coast App – anytime, anywhere!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

New regional dog rules have been adopted by Auckland Council, which includes how many dogs one person can walk at a time, and where.The changes, approved at last Thursday's Governing Body meeting, included updates on leash, off leash and dog free areas at nine regional parks, and a limit on the number of dogs that can be walked at once.Councillor Josephine Bartley said the review of Auckland's Dog Policy and Bylaw was needed so everyone could enjoy Auckland's shared spaces safely."We know how much Aucklanders love getting out with their dogs, particularly in our beautiful regional parks," Bartley said."Our dog rules aim to carefully accommodate these needs as well as those of others who also want to use shared outdoor spaces safely and freely."Qualified dog walkers will be allowed to walk up to 12 dogs at once, on or off-leash, as long as they kept under control.To walk up to 12 dogs, dog walkers must register with the council and follow the conditions attached to their registration.Other dog owners can walk a maximum of four dogs at once, with two off leash, as long as they are kept under control."We have listened to public feedback and recognise, for example, that commercial dog walking is a growing industry with many walkers regularly using Auckland's public spaces."To support this to be done in a safe and responsible way, council was introducing a registration system, she said."This will allow commercial dog walkers to walk a higher number of dogs, as long as they keep them under control and stick to the conditions, so we can all enjoy our public places."The limit of how many dogs can be walked at once will come into effect from 1 January, 2026.Changes at regional parks will come into effect from 1 August.On leash, off leash and dog-free areas have been updated in nine regional parks.They are - Auckland Botanic Gardens, Hunua Ranges Regional Park, Long Bay Regional Park, Mahurangi Regional Park, Pākiri Regional Park, Shakespear Regional Park, Tāpapakanga Regional Park, Waitawa Regional Park and Whakanewha Regional Park.Additional work is being done to finalise changes to dog rules at Te Ārai Regional Park."Dogs are clearly an important part of our lives - by the end of 2024, more than 135,000 dogs were registered in Tāmaki Makaurau."But our regional parks are also home to native species like the northern dotterel and critically endangered fairy tern, and unfortunately, dogs do pose a threat to these birds and their habitats."

Reading business news might do more than keep you informed. It could help you manage your money.That’s the finding from a new study by University of Auckland finance lecturer Dr Justin J. Case and Queensland University of Technology’s Professor Adam Clements. They discovered that analysing articles from The Wall Street Journal can forecast stock market volatility better than commonly used models.“Volatility is a common proxy for financial risk,” says Dr Case. “By accurately forecasting this risk, investors can take strategic steps to protect their investments before market shifts occur.”The team analysed more than 1.1 million articles published between 2000 and 2022. Business School finance lecturer Dr Justin J. Case.Using machine learning, they grouped news topics and linked them to high-frequency movements in the S&P 500 index.Their results showed that news coverage is strongly related to market volatility. News about stock market activity, economic shocks, financial institutions, and government policy were most relevant. On the flip side, mergers and acquisitions were linked to lower volatility, suggesting greater investor confidence. Sports news was also tied to calmer markets, possibly due to a distraction effect.The researchers tested their method in a simulated investment strategy. Returns improved when they adjusted investment exposure based on expected volatility from news, compared to traditional models.They also tested ChatGPT’s ability to forecast volatility from headlines, but it was less accurate over longer timeframes.“Our method allows for a more granular analysis of news text,” says Dr Case.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

A faster trip between Auckland and Northland is just hours away, with a new 110km/h speed limit coming into effect on the Pūhoi to Warkworth motorway from 1 July 2025.Transport Minister Chris Bishop confirmed the change this morning, saying the motorway’s design and safety features meet the criteria for the higher limit. “With over 20,000 vehicles using this route every day, this will help people and freight move more quickly and safely,” he said.The updated limit applies to a stretch of SH1 from 2.5km north of the Johnstones Hill Tunnels to just south of the Warkworth roundabout. The tunnel section itself will stay at 80km/h, with a 100km/h transition zone in between.The decision follows a public consultation in late 2024, which saw nearly 8,000 submissions across Auckland and Northland. A massive 94% supported the change, with 91% strongly in favour.Safety was a key focus. The motorway includes flexible median barriers, two lanes each way, and long, straight sections with clear visibility. Since opening in 2023, there have been zero fatalities.For Coasties commuting north or heading away for a weekend, this makes a real difference. Quicker, smoother travel means more time at your destination—and a little less stress on the road.As always, police are reminding drivers to stick to the conditions and keep safety front of mind.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

We love shining a spotlight on the local businesses that make our community thrive.Today, we’re excited to share the story of BurgerFuel Whangaparāoa, located in the heart of our beautiful peninsula.Walking into BurgerFuel Whangaparāoa feels like stepping into a burst of energy.The smoky scent of grilled beef, the sound of a good playlist humming in the background, and bold artwork splashed across the walls create a vibe that’s fast, fun, and full of flavour.Behind the counter, the crew always greet you with genuine Coastie warmth and a bit of banter.But the real story starts before the first burger was flipped.This locally owned store began with a simple idea.The owners wanted to bring something special to Whangaparāoa.They saw the need for more than just a standard takeaway.They imagined a place that brought people together, served real food with real flavour, and became part of everyday life on the Coast.And that’s exactly what they’ve built.Families stop in after school runs and beach days.Teens roll through after footy, sandy and smiling.Locals swing by not just for the food, but for the feeling. Like you belong. Like you’re known.Community is at the heart of everything they do.One of their favourite initiatives is supporting local sports teams with “Legend of the Day” and “Most Valuable Player” vouchers.Seeing a young player proudly walk in to claim their burger is what it’s all about.Parents and coaches often reach out with heartfelt thanks, saying how much it means to the kids.That spirit of connection is what makes BurgerFuel Whangaparāoa more than just a burger joint.It’s a place where first jobs turn into confidence.Where regulars become mates. Where every meal feels like a little celebration.Of course, the food speaks for itself.Right now, The Ultimeatum is the star of the show.It’s a bold, no-compromise burger stacked with grass-fed New Zealand beef, slow-cooked brisket, bacon, smoked cheddar, parmesan, fresh salad, and their famous aioli.All served on a toasted artisan bun.Pair it with Spud Fries and a Coke and you’ve got yourself a serious feed.But what really brings people back is the experience. It’s the music. The smiles.The feeling that you’re not just a customer. You’re part of something.A place that gets what it means to live local, eat well, and have a bit of fun while you’re at it.Looking ahead, the team is not chasing flash or fast growth.Their focus is on deepening their roots.They want to be a top employer for local youth, back more community events, and stay true to the values that brought them here in the first place.So if you haven’t yet made your way to BurgerFuel Whangaparāoa, this is your invitation.Come hungry. Come curious.Leave fuelled in every sense of the word.

Around 400 locals packed into the Ōrewa Surf Life Saving Club Café on Tuesday for a passionate public meeting on the future of Ōrewa Reserve. The crowd turned out in force to oppose Auckland Council’s proposed “naturalisation” plan, known as Concept C, which includes removing over 60 trees and significantly reducing car parking.Organised by the Orewa Residents and Community Association (ORCA), the meeting featured detailed presentations on the potential impact of Concept C. Concerns raised included the loss of up to 191 car parks, the removal of 11 Norfolk Pines and more than 50 notable pōhutukawa, and insufficient consultation with the Orewa Surf Club and local community.Instead, speakers from ORCA and the surf club proposed a revetment-style rock wall to better protect the reserve’s edge. They argued it would trap sand, protect trees, and preserve community spaces like the playground and courts. With no council staff in attendance, ORCA members led the conversation and called for proper engagement.By the end of the evening, three strong resolutions had been passed unanimously, including the formation of a working group to explore the rock wall option and a formal rejection of Concept C.Why Coasties CareThis is more than a planning proposal. It’s about protecting a beloved part of daily life in Ōrewa. Coasties want to be heard, and they want to keep the beach the way they know and love it. Safe, usable, and accessible for everyone.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]