The government has committed up to $60 million to investigate the potential of supercritical geothermal technology (SCGT) as part of its strategy to secure the country's long-term energy supply. Regional Development Minister Shane Jones and Science, Innovation, and Technology Minister Judith Collins made the announcement, confirming that the funding will come from the Regional Infrastructure Fund.SCGT offers the possibility of significantly higher energy output compared to conventional geothermal sources, potentially generating up to three times more energy. Unlike current geothermal wells, which are typically drilled to depths of about 3.5km, SCGT exploration involves drilling to depths of up to 6km."The potential of SCGT is immense, both for New Zealand and globally," said Mr Jones. "If successful, it could dramatically increase our renewable energy capacity, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and supporting our transition to more sustainable energy sources."An initial $5 million of the funding will be used for designing and assessing the feasibility of drilling the first of three exploratory deep wells in the Taupō Volcanic Zone. This area was selected due to its abundant geothermal heat sources and relatively thin Earth’s crust, making it an ideal location for SCGT exploration.Ms Collins emphasised that while the project holds significant promise, developing the necessary engineering technology to extract SCGT will be a major challenge. "This is a long-term project, and any decision to move forward will depend on the early-stage success of the technology," she said.The project will be led by GNS Science in collaboration with the Ministry of Business, Innovation & Employment (MBIE), building on years of research and studies funded by MBIE’s Endeavour Research Fund.The first well is expected to be drilled by the end of 2025, with the full deployment of SCGT potentially taking place between 2035 and 2040. If successful, the technology could provide a substantial return on investment, further cementing New Zealand's reputation for innovative solutions to global energy challenges.

Hundreds gathered on Orewa Beach last Saturday for the much-anticipated Orewa Beach Fashion Show, an event that brought together the community for an inspiring showcase of local style.Set against Orewa’s iconic sculpture, the show presented a unique blend of vintage, up-cycled, and contemporary collections from local retailers.MediaWorks' Anna McGovern and Magic FM broadcaster Murray Lindsay hosted the event, lending a professional touch that kept audiences engaged.The event drew 160 ticketed attendees, with additional crowds viewing from nearby seating and cafes like Cheek & Chong and Shoreward.“It was a great day with lots of energy,” said Hellen Wilkins, Orewa Business Association Manager, who noted that many spectators headed straight to stores after the show to purchase looks they had seen on the catwalk.“The event created a positive economic impact, with people filling nearby bars and restaurants afterward,” she added.Models aged 3 to 83 showcased styles for every age group, with plans to expand selections for the 20–30 age range in future events.This show marked the end of its annual run, as organisers now plan to hold it every other year.“The show is a large commitment for our local retailers,” Wilkins explained, emphasising that the shift will keep interest high while easing the workload for Orewa’s small businesses.Tania Ogilvy modelling for Main Street FashionsThe event was funded by the association’s events budget, with sponsorships from RRE and Orewa Optics and support from ticket sales.As Wilkins highlighted, “Destination Orewa Beach’s goal is to drive foot traffic and support retail, not to turn a profit. Our mandate is to create vibrant, cost-neutral events that benefit the community.”

Auckland ferry commuters are angry their ferry service could still be facing the chopping block.Auckland Transport is commissioning an independent study on transport options for the Whangaparāoa Peninsula - including considering whether to keep the ferry, despite backlash from the community.O Mahurangi Penlink, a new 7km highway connecting the Whangaparāoa Peninsula to State Highway One, is set to open in late 2026.Auckland Transport network planner Dave Hilson said it will create a more direct connection to State Highway 1 and the city."What we need to do is review our existing public transport services, the network on the Peninsula, and see if we need to make changes as a result of that, in order to benefit more people from public transport."There are three scenarios out for feedback until 1 December.The first is the same bus and ferry services running more often, and the second is a new transport station served by the northern express NX2 bus, with frequent bus services to Gulf Harbour - but no ferry.The third option is a combination - keeping the Gulf Harbour ferry and the new station with frequent busses, but without the NX2 bus.Whangaparāoa resident Glenn Taylor said the Gulf Harbour ferry was used by everyone east of Stanmore Bay."I mean yes, people do use buses, but it's very easy for us to jump in our car, drive down to the Hammerhead, park your car up free of charge all day long, jump on a ferry. Five minutes in a car, fifty minutes in a ferry. We don't use buses."In 2023, the Regional Land Transport Plan included a proposal to end the ferry.The proposal was withdrawn from the final plan after backlash, and Auckland Transport committed to the independent Whangaparaoa Transport Study, to inform a decision for the future of public transport to the Peninsula - and the ferry - by 2025.Taylor said to be surveyed again was just annoying, after over 1000 people submitted against it ending last year."We've already made these submissions, and it's been mentioned enough times and commented on enough times, that people are saying, we've just done this. We want the ferries, full stop. There's a sense of, are they even listening to us?"Albany councillor John Watson said the 2023 proposal received an overwhelming response."The community made it really clear to [Auckland Transport] then - they valued their service, they wanted to hold onto it, and there's a real feeling now that, here they are back again, trying to circumvent that near-unanimous opposition to closing the ferry service down."Watson said the ferry was part of the fabric of life on the Peninsula."This study is a very expensive resource, an intensive study that's going right along Whangaparāoa now, when they already know their answer - they know people want to hold onto their ferry."Hilson said the ferry was not changing until the contract to run it ends in 2028, but the study's aim was to find cost-effective options for the whole peninsula."All feedback is taken into account. I mean from a personal point of view - I wouldn't be doing this, unless we were going to. It's not a tick-box exercise."He said nothing was set in stone, and the study's three options will change depending on feedback.

Locals on the Hibiscus Coast are invited to share their thoughts on a new development contributions policy that will shape how the costs of growth in Auckland are distributed.The consultation period is open until Friday, 15 November 2024.The proposed policy outlines the fees that Auckland Council will charge developers to help fund essential infrastructure, including roads, pipes, and public amenities necessary for new homes and businesses.Andrew Duncan, the council's manager of financial policy, emphasised the importance of community involvement in this process.“We encourage all Aucklanders to get involved with this consultation – it will influence the infrastructure for our new developments in future, and how well they support growth in the region,” Mr Duncan said.He noted that the infrastructure includes roads, footpaths, stormwater and drainage systems, community facilities, libraries, and parks, all of which contribute to the quality of life in local communities.Auckland's population is projected to increase by approximately 600,000 people over the next 30 years.The development contributions policy aims to ensure that the costs of infrastructure are fairly shared among developers, ratepayers, and the government.Over the next decade, the council plans to invest around $39.3 billion in its capital investment programme, which includes $10.3 billion for projects related to growth.The proposed changes to the policy would raise the average development contribution fee from $21,000 to $30,000 per household unit equivalent.Significant investments are also planned for key areas, including Drury, the inner northwest (Redhills, Westgate, and Whenuapai), and the Auckland Housing Programme areas at Tāmaki, Mt Roskill, and Māngere.From 2034 to 2054, an additional $10.9 billion will be allocated to these priority areas.Mr Duncan explained that these higher fees reflect the necessary infrastructure to support development.He added that the council's economic analysis indicates that increased development contributions do not typically lead to higher house prices, as housing prices are primarily influenced by supply and demand.All Aucklanders are encouraged to participate in the consultation process by visiting the council’s "Have Your Say" webpage to provide feedback on the future needs of their neighbourhoods.

Just in time for Christmas, Hallensteins is opening its first store on the Hibiscus Coast this Saturday at Silverdale Centre.Known for its contemporary menswear, the store offers a range of styles, from streetwear to formal attire, catering to Kiwi men looking to refresh their wardrobes for the holiday season.Doors will open at 9 am, with early visitors treated to a free coffee and a chance to receive a mystery voucher, some valued up to $500.Vouchers and coffee will be offered on a first-come, first-served basis, so arriving early is recommended.A DJ will also be on-site to create a festive vibe, helping to get shoppers in the Christmas spirit.With 46 stores across New Zealand and Australia, including 12 in Auckland, Hallensteins’ arrival in Silverdale gives Hibiscus Coast locals convenient access to the brand’s popular range.As shoppers get ready for the holiday rush, Hallensteins’ new Silverdale store promises to be a welcomed addition to the community, providing a fresh option for men’s fashion on the Coast.

Coasties may be interested to learn that Auckland Council has made substantial progress in its savings initiatives for the current financial year. As of now, the council has achieved nearly 50 per cent of its $66 million savings target for 2024/2025, amounting to $31.9 million.The annual savings programme is part of the council's ongoing efforts to ensure cost-effectiveness and value for money across all its activities. This week, the Revenue, Expenditure and Value Committee received an update on these savings, with Deputy Mayor Desley Simpson highlighting their importance in reducing rates rises for residents.“These savings are directly used to keep rates and debt down. In total, $66 million saved represents 2.5 per cent of rates rises that have been avoided,” Cr Simpson stated. “The savings to date this year are excellent news for our ratepayers and show the council’s focus on delivering increased efficiency and maximising every ratepayer dollar. We want rates to remain affordable, particularly when the cost of living is so high for Aucklanders.”The council's savings in the last quarter have been achieved through various measures, including detailed budget reviews and reductions in staffing, consultancy, and promotional activities. Over recent years, Auckland Council has consistently exceeded its savings targets, with many initiatives continuing to yield benefits annually.The current $66 million savings target builds on top of ongoing savings of $90 million per year that have already been integrated into the council’s budget. Over the past three years, the council has achieved $337 million in savings, which is expected to approach half a billion dollars by the end of the 2024/2025 financial year.“The results so far speak volumes for how closely the council is monitoring its costs and enhancing its revenue,” Cr Simpson added. “While we’re off to a promising start this year, continuing to find savings across the business is a challenge. But we continue to focus on delivering value for money, because it’s vital work to keep rates as affordable for Aucklanders as possible.”Looking ahead, the council aims to save an additional $19 million per year for 2025/2026 and a further $20 million per year for 2026/2027. For every $25 million of planned savings in the council’s budget, a rates rise of around 1 per cent is avoided.

Loneliness and social isolation among older New Zealanders have reached epidemic proportions, a new study has found.The research, commissioned by Age Concern Auckland, reveals that 59% of participants have recently felt lonely or socially isolated, with nearly a third (30%) experiencing these feelings frequently or always.The 'Breaking Barriers' study, which surveyed respondents in Auckland and Bay of Plenty, paints a complex picture of interconnected factors contributing to this growing issue.Financial insecurity, rising living costs, and limited retirement savings are major drivers of loneliness, with many older adults struggling to make ends meet.Health concerns, such as long wait times for elective surgeries and high insurance premiums, exacerbate anxiety and hinder social participation.Access to affordable housing also plays a significant role.Many older Kiwis are either priced out of the housing market or forced to live in substandard conditions.The study found that 70% of those in social housing had experienced loneliness, the highest rate across all accommodation types.The report also notes that the trend of adult children moving overseas is leaving older adults emotionally and geographically isolated.In Auckland, 44% of the elderly population consists of migrants, many of whom face loneliness after their children leave.The use of technology, including social media, has not proven effective in alleviating isolation.The study found that 75% of participants with social media access still reported feelings of loneliness, and almost two-thirds (64%) of those who were proficient with smartphones also experienced isolation.Kevin Lamb, CEO of Age Concern Auckland, highlighted the severe health impacts of loneliness, comparing them to those of chronic conditions like smoking and obesity.He has called for a Minister of Loneliness, a position already established in the UK and Japan, to spearhead national strategies aimed at reducing social isolation and improving mental health.The report also emphasises the need for greater funding for social connection initiatives and mental health services for older adults.It advocates for community-based activities, volunteer programmes, and efforts to combat ageism.Additionally, the study draws attention to the unique challenges faced by Maori in rural areas, where healthcare access and support services are limited.Over a third (34%) of Maori kaumatua live in rural areas, and the report calls for equitable access to resources for older adults, particularly in these communities.

A lengthy queue at Auckland Airport's domestic terminal on Tuesday morning was caused by upgrades to a security machine.The Aviation Security Service has closed one of its five security lanes until 5 December to install a new scanning machine.A large number of arrivals, many for Wednesday's Coldplay concert, caused a large queue to form at around 6am.The queue started to clear by 7am, it said.Avsec said it was reviewing CCTV footage and working with Auckland Airport to improve passenger flow.Meanwhile, Air New Zealand has had to add 22 more flights to Auckland as thousands of Coldplay fans visit the city.The first of three concerts will be held at Eden Park on Wednesday evening and is expected to draw a crowd of 50,000.Air New Zealand said it was shaping up to be one of its busiest weeks of the year for the domestic network, with more than 230,000 customers expected.Friday was set to be the busiest day, with 40,000 passengers in the sky, it said.

Locals travelling through Auckland today should anticipate significant traffic disruptions as a North Island march is set to impact major routes, including the central business district. The New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) and Auckland Transport (AT) have advised travellers to check the latest traffic updates before setting off.In a somewhat surprising decision, especially given the current economic climate, NZTA and Police have agreed to close two outer lanes on the Auckland Harbour Bridge from early this morning to ensure the safety of march participants and road users. This temporary lane closure is anticipated to impact both northbound and southbound traffic during peak hours, with plans to reopen the lanes as soon as it is safe to do soThe decision is part of a broader traffic management plan, which includes temporary closures of the Stafford Road offramp, Curran Street onramp, and Shelly Beach Road southbound offramp, alongside the two affected lanes on the Harbour Bridge. NZTA and AT will closely monitor traffic through the Auckland Transport Operations Centre, providing live updates to help motorists navigate potential delays.Auckland public transport users may also experience delays, as buses could be rerouted or detoured in response to traffic conditions. Travellers, whether by car or public transport, are advised to allow extra time and plan routes carefully.Check motorway traffic cameras here.Check real-time traffic flow here.As Auckland’s traffic flow contends with this march, the broader economic impact of today’s disruptions—and the authorities' surprising decision to close Harbour Bridge lanes—remains to be seen.

A swimmer has died at Piha Beach this afternoon after being caught in a rip current.Police were alerted just after 3.30 pm when the swimmer was pulled from the water. Despite receiving medical attention at the scene, the swimmer tragically died.The death will be referred to the Coroner, and further inquiries are underway. The swimmer's identity has not been made public.Our thoughts are with the family and loved ones during this difficult time.

The Hibiscus Coast App is proud to welcome several new businesses to its growing directory, offering residents more local options to explore. As the fastest-growing platform in the area, the app helps businesses connect directly with over 42,000 active users, driving visibility and results through targeted, cost-effective digital advertising.Acorn Stairlifts New Zealand is now featured on the app, offering tailored stairlift installations designed to enhance mobility and safety. Their solutions provide a reliable way for individuals to regain independence within their homes.With over 18 years of experience, All Seasons Air Conditioning & Electrical Services offers expert installation of air conditioning and heat pumps. Their services are focused on energy-efficient solutions, ensuring comfort for homes and businesses while lowering energy costs.Chris & Nadia Bone from Barfoot & Thompson bring nearly two decades of combined real estate experience. Known for their expertise in securing competitive prices, they offer a professional and seamless approach to property sales on the Hibiscus Coast.Platinum Homes Rodney showcases its High Performance Show Home in Milldale, offering cutting-edge eco-friendly designs with advanced energy-efficient technology. These homes are built to meet modern living standards while promoting sustainability and comfort.These businesses can now be found in the "Services & Trades" or "Real Estate" sections of the Hibiscus Coast App, making it easier for locals to find trusted providers right at their fingertips.The Hibiscus Coast App connects businesses with local customers, helping them get seen, engage with their audience, and achieve real results.

The Kawau Island restoration project has received a significant boost from the New Zealand Nature Fund (NZNF), enhancing efforts to protect and restore the island's biodiversity. The initiative, a collaboration between Auckland Council, Manuhiri Kaitiaki Charitable Trust, Predator Free 2050 Ltd, the Department of Conservation, and the Kawau Island community, aims to eradicate browsing pests such as wallabies and possums. Discussions are also underway for the potential future eradication of stoats and rats.Just a 40-minute ferry ride from Sandspit, Kawau Island is home to diverse ecosystems, but the presence of invasive species has led to ecological challenges, damaging native flora and fauna. The project aims to address these issues, ultimately working toward a pest-free island.The NZ Nature Fund, established in 2000, supports conservation projects across New Zealand, raising funds from private donors to protect endangered species and restore wild areas. In the past year, the fund raised over $1.8 million for more than 14 projects.Richard Hills, Chair of the Planning, Environment and Parks Committee, highlighted the importance of public donations for achieving the vision of a pest-free Kawau Island. “The support from the New Zealand Nature Fund underscores our commitment to protecting Auckland’s natural heritage,” he said.The project has already secured funding from Predator Free 2050 Ltd, Auckland Council, and the Ministry for Primary Industries, with contributions from local landowners totalling more than $500,000. The NZNF has set a fundraising target of $2 million to support the project’s delivery costs.Brett Butland, Landscape Director for Predator Free 2050 Ltd, noted that Kawau Island could become one of New Zealand’s largest inhabited pest-free islands, representing a significant milestone toward a predator-free nation by 2050.Auckland Council’s Project Lead, Lisa Tolich, stressed the importance of collaboration in such a large-scale project. “We are grateful for the support from our partners and the local community,” she said.The project aims to boost populations of nationally and regionally threatened species and support the natural regeneration of native vegetation. Future stages will focus on eradicating invasive predators, strengthening the ecological resilience of both the island and the Hauraki Gulf.“This project sets a high bar for community-driven conservation,” said Denis Marshall of NZNF, emphasising the impact of local involvement in achieving ambitious environmental goals.Watch the video below.

The Trans-Tasman Scrabble Challenge will take place this weekend in Auckland, where New Zealand and Australian players will compete in a three-day tournament to decide the top Scrabble players in Australasia.The event, held from Friday 14 to Sunday 16 November, will feature 12 of the best Scrabble players from both countries.For the first time, the competition will be live-streamed, offering fans around the world the chance to follow the action."We’re excited to bring the Trans-Tasman Challenge to a global audience through live streaming," said Alexander Gandar, technical co-ordinator for New Zealand Scrabble."This is an important step for New Zealand Scrabble, allowing us to showcase both established and emerging talent."The live-streaming will be available on the New Zealand Scrabble YouTube channel and embedded on The Spinoff website throughout the event.Players from both countries will compete in a round-robin format, with each player facing off against their counterpart from the opposing team twice.Australia has won the event ten times, while New Zealand has claimed victory three times, in 1998, 2000, and 2010.The most recent Trans-Tasman Challenge in 2022 saw Australia take the trophy.The event’s significance has grown over the years.The idea for the Trans-Tasman Challenge was first discussed in 1995 at the World Scrabble Championship in London, where New Zealand and Australian players staying at the same venue decided to create a formal competition.The inaugural challenge was held in 1996, with Australia emerging as the victor.Some notable players participating this year include Bob Jackman (ranked #1 in Australia) and Patrick Carter (ranked #2 in Australia), who have competed in every Trans-Tasman Challenge since 1996, as well as Howard Warner (ranked #3 in New Zealand) and Dylan Early (ranked #5 in New Zealand), both of whom have had significant success in previous tournaments.The competition will also feature commentary from top international players, including Josh Sokol from Canada and Kenji Matsumoto from the United States.Scrabble fans can watch the live stream here.

Hibiscus Coast locals may not often pause to consider it, but journalism is woven into the fabric of daily life, playing a crucial role in a democratic society.Dr Gavin Ellis, a media consultant with over 50 years in news media, recently highlighted the challenges facing journalism in New Zealand.He shared concerns that, without change, the industry could face a grim decline in the coming years.Dr Ellis’s comments come after the release of a position paper from the University of Auckland’s Centre for Informed Futures, which he co-authored.Titled If Not Journalists, Then Who?, the report warns that journalism in New Zealand is at risk of "ecosystem collapse."According to the paper, this collapse is caused by a mix of financial strain, technological disruption, and declining public trust in media.The report suggests that without intervention, the decline in professional journalism will have lasting impacts, potentially affecting democracy and social cohesion.Dr Ellis argues that the public may not fully grasp the link between a strong media and a functioning society.He also notes that some believe an abundance of online information can replace traditional journalism, but he disagrees, questioning whether the sources of this information meet the same standards of integrity and accountability.While some see hope in digital innovation, Dr Ellis remains cautious."In informational terms, volume equates with value for many," he observes, "yet quality and reliability are irreplaceable."The paper outlines several recommendations for both media organisations and the government to help secure the future of journalism.The message Dr Ellis emphasises is clear: without public support and understanding, journalism risks becoming a "lost art."

The New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA) is defending the difficulty of NCEA exam questions for students trying to achieve excellence endorsements this year.The authority said it had received seven complaints about its Level 2 maths exam earlier this week and two complaints about the Level 2 biology exam.Jann Marshall, NZQA deputy chief executive - assessment, said she could not comment on the specifics of the questions while exams were being marked.However, she said every NCEA assessment had a range of less difficult and more difficult questions reflecting the fact that students were awarded Not Achieved, Achieved, Merit or Excellence grades.Marshall said questions related to achievement at the Excellence level were more difficult."Excellence level achievement for biology requires the demonstration of comprehensive understanding, and for maths, extended abstract thinking," she said."Questions designed to elicit responses at the Excellence level may contain unfamiliar contexts to which students are expected to apply their foundational subject knowledge."NZQA expects students to apply knowledge - not reproduce memorised responses - to demonstrate their understanding."Marshall said exam papers were developed and quality-assured by writing teams of five or more experienced subject teachers at that NCEA level.She said in the rare instance that the design of a question disadvantaged students, marking panels were instructed to calibrate their marking accordingly.The 2024 NCEA and scholarship exams began on Tuesday this week. Friday's exams included Level 1 maths, which had more than 28,000 candidates.'Plain ridiculous'Meanwhile, a petition calling for consistency in NCEA exam questions had attracted more than 1700 signatures. The petition claimed changes to content often rendered students' preparation ineffective."This frequent alteration in examination material disallows students from accurately knowing what to study, leading to undue stress and potential underperformance," it said."To improve student preparation and consequently, academic performance, we are urging NCEA to maintain consistency in their examination content, ensuring it accurately reflects the curriculum and resources provided to students throughout the year."One signatory wrote they were usually a straight Excellence student, but both the biology and maths questions were just plain ridiculous.""I attempted the Level 2 NCEA maths (all three algebra calculus and probability papers) this year and find the Merit and Excellence questions are too unpredictable," wrote another.

Calling all Coasties!Are you looking for a flexible and rewarding career opportunity that's right on your doorstep?We've got exciting news - the Hibiscus Coast App is seeking an experienced Telephone Account Manager to join our dynamic team.As a Telephone Account Manager, you'll connect with potential clients over the phone, helping local businesses reach their target audience. You'll also manage customer records and enjoy part-time hours that fit perfectly into your lifestyle. Plus, you can work from home with comprehensive training provided.Interested? Call 027 25 111 96 or leave a message with your details. We'd love to hear from you!Want to learn more?Click here for more job details.

A new study seeks to tackle New Zealand's growing workforce shortage by highlighting the potential of disabled workers in key industries such as construction, manufacturing, engineering, and logistics.Released by Hanga-Aro-Rau and Waihanga Ara Rau, the research underscores the barriers disabled individuals face when seeking employment in these sectors and presents recommendations for creating more inclusive workplaces.According to Stats NZ, the participation rate of disabled adults in the workforce has declined slightly from 45% to 44.7% over the past decade, while the rate for non-disabled adults has increased.Disabled workers, along with Māori, Pacific Peoples, and women, are underrepresented in the sectors most affected by the skills shortage.The study, titled Let’s Level Up, surveyed over 300 employers and disabled workers across New Zealand.It found that a lack of awareness and suitable roles, along with attitudinal barriers, were key factors limiting disabled people's employment opportunities.Nearly two-thirds of employers reported never discussing disability inclusion, and many were unsure how to support disabled workers.Professor Brigit Mirfin-Veitch, Director of the Donald Beasley Institute, highlighted the significance of these findings, emphasising that societal attitudes towards disability are the primary hurdle to employment.“The research shows that disabled people can and should be a part of industry. A truly inclusive workplace embraces diversity as a whole,” she said.The report also found that physical accessibility, lack of knowledge, and negative attitudes were among the top challenges identified by employers.However, advances in technology, particularly in the construction sector, have begun to make these industries more accessible to disabled workers.For example, crane operators can now control machinery from the ground using a joystick, making roles more accessible for those with mobility impairments.Hanga-Aro-Rau’s Deputy CEO, Samantha McNaughton, called for collective action across government and industry to improve support for disabled workers.“This research is just the beginning. We need to take practical steps to address the growing skills shortage and ensure disability inclusion is part of the solution,” she said.The study also points to the need for long-term strategies to increase the employment of disabled people and better retain those who acquire disabilities during their careers.The findings offer a valuable framework for addressing the barriers faced by disabled workers and encouraging employers to take proactive steps towards inclusivity.

A resident of a new housing development in north Auckland is dumbfounded a move of less than two kilometres means he no longer receives mail.Ara Hills in Ōrewa opened in 2022, 31km north of the Auckland CBD, with a mix of terraced and standalone homes.But almost two years on, a stand-off with the developer means NZ Post will not deliver mail because the development is classed as rural.For resident Gary Phillips, a move from one side of the motorway to the other has suddenly meant no mail in the letterbox."People are not getting important things like car registrations, medical appointments, fines, all those sorts of things and then if they don't get it, they don't know that they owe it and suddenly they're in debt," resident Penelope Jensen said.Jensen attends meetings with Ara Hills residents, and said there had been plenty of frustration among the 120 households."People were quite angry about it. And yeah, felt a bit betrayed, I think because when they bought up here, they didn't realise that they were going to face this situation."Ara Hills is set to have 550 dwellings when building is complete. All have letterboxes out the front - rendered obsolete while developers AV Jennings and NZ Post continue to clash.Michelle Palmer has lived in the development since 2022."We feel isolated. We actually don't feel like that it's going anywhere, we feel like we're kind of stuck between the developer and council and the post having a fight and we're the people that are actually getting impacted by it, but no one's really coming and actually apologising or asking how they can support us in the short term until they come up with some long-term solution."Palmer has been redirecting her mail to her relative's house 28 kilometres away in Warkworth.She, along with plenty of others, are holding off getting one of the PO boxes that AV Jennings is subsidising down the road in Ōrewa, a few minutes' drive away.Ara Hills is zoned as rural by NZ Post, so mail is not delivered to residents' letterboxes. Photo: RNZ/Leonard Powell"For us, if we do that, we're sort of conceding and [saying] that might be the long-term solution, and we don't think that's a long-term solution."There is no way that this is rural and we've got a letterbox out front. So we should be receiving it. And so we're standing our ground and hoping that they will actually provide a proper long-term solution."Phillips is one of the residents who has been using a PO Box.He moved in December 2023, after living nearby for 15 years."We really only moved about 1.8 kilometres. We're just the other side of the of the motorway exit and we've lived there for a long time. And we'd always had mail. No problem at all."So it was quite strange to us to come just over the other side of the motorway to to somewhere where there was nothing."NZ Post declined to be interviewed but in a statement said it would deliver mail if a cluster of letterboxes was provided by the developer AV Jennings.But AV Jennings' Katelyn Orton said that would not be happening."The anomaly when it comes to the mail delivery is simply a fact that NZ Post is trying to reduce its costs. So when it's seeing something as being rural, which is actually a fully formed residential street. that's about cost saving. That's not about development being out of sequence."I mean the homes exist. The residents exist. The only thing that doesn't exist is a mail service."Orton said until NZ Post came to the party, the only option for residents would be a heavily subsidised PO box, which start at about $35 a year."AV Jennings have undertaken that to ensure that our residents can actually receive their mail. I know not all of our residents have taken that option. Because they've been hopeful as we have, that common sense would prevail and there'd be a practical solution in place that doesn't place financial or physical barriers to our residents receiving their mail."Phillips is not a fan of either the PO box option or a cluster of hundreds of letterboxes.However, "there's not a lot we can do as a small community apart from what we've already tried to do", he said."The post box is up up the hill. It's a stupid solution because there's hundreds and hundreds of houses here. You're going to take up a large part of our green space. And just fill it full of unsecure metal boxes."NZ Post said if mail came into a delivery branch for residents of Ara Hills, it was held for a month before it is returned to sender.For Jensen, that was not an option."It's important to us that we get our mail and if there's no other solution, then we just have to pay."

Aucklanders have responded strongly to recent pre-infringement notices, with the number of dog registrations increasing by 4,407 over a two-week period. The Auckland Council’s Animal Management team sent out 22,929 reminder notices to owners of 26,614 unregistered dogs. This action has had a significant impact, boosting registrations and providing more accurate data on the dog population in the region.Before the notices were sent, the Council recorded a total of 132,574 dogs in its database. However, following the updates, 2,337 dogs were reported as deceased, sold, or relocated out of Auckland, bringing the total number of dogs down to 130,237.Animal Management Manager, Elly Waitoa, acknowledged the overwhelming response from dog owners. “The response has been staggering and very positive. The number of unregistered dogs in Auckland has reduced by 6,744 to 21,411. This has not only updated our records but also contributed significant revenue to support essential animal management services for the community.”The registration drive generated NZD 767,349 in revenue in just two weeks. This will support Auckland Council’s budget for maintaining public safety and managing animal welfare.“We are pleased to see such a great response,” said Waitoa. “Our goal is for all dog owners to register their pets, rather than face a NZD 300 fine as the next enforcement step.”Councillor Josephine Bartley, Chair of the Regulatory and Safety Committee, praised the initiative. “We want to thank the dog owners who took action on these notices and remind them that continuing compliance helps maintain a safe and enjoyable community for everyone,” she said.The Council noted that the highest response rates came from Auckland’s northern and southern regions.