New Zealand's diversity is reflected in the latest data on the most common registered family names for newborns in 2024, announced by Minister of Internal Affairs Brooke van Velden.Locals, it's interesting to note that for the seventh consecutive year, Singh has taken the top spot, with over 680 babies given this name.Kaur follows closely in second place with 630 babies, while Smith rounds out the top three with 300 babies sharing the family name.According to Ms van Velden, "A decade ago, in 2014, Smith was the most common registered family name, followed closely behind by Wilson and Brown."New Zealand's cultural diversity is evident in the varying popularity of family names across different regions.In the North Island, Singh, Kaur and Patel were the most common registered family names, while in the South Island, Kaur, Singh and Smith took the top spots.The family name Singh has a rich history, originating from the Sanskrit word for 'lion.'It is traditionally used by Sikh men and has become a common family name among the global Indian diaspora.Ms van Velden emphasised the importance of registering children, especially those born overseas, to ensure they have full access to citizenship rights."It's crucial for Kiwi parents to register their children as citizens by descent, enabling them to obtain a passport and exercise their citizenship rights."For more information on registering your child and accessing guidance on their early years, visit SmartStart.Have a story to share from your neighbourhood?We’d love to hear from you! Send your news tips and stories to [email protected]

Your weekend weather at a glance.Coasties, here’s what the next four days have in store:Friday, 21/2Partly cloudy. Breezy to brisk West to Sou'West winds.High: 25Low: 15Saturday, 22/2Partly cloudy. Breezy to brisk South to Sou'West winds.High: 24Low: 16Sunday, 23/2Partly cloudy. Breezy South to Sou'West winds.High: 24Low: 15Monday, 24/2Mostly sunny. Fairly breezy East to Sou'East winds.High: 25Low: 16Looking for more details?Check out our full Weather & Travel section in the Hibiscus Coast App for:🌊 Tide information🌬️ Wind conditions🌊 Wave updates🌞 UV levels🏖️ Safe swimming areasand much more.Everything you need is inside the Hibiscus Coast App – anytime, anywhere.

Coasties are advised of significant lane closures on the Harbour Bridge this weekend as the New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) carries out resurfacing work.Southbound lanes 1 and 2 (the clip-on lanes) will be closed from 9 pm Saturday 22 February until 12 pm Sunday 23 February, with the Shelly Beach off-ramp also shut during the works.The scheduled resurfacing aims to enhance the longevity of the Harbour Bridge, but due to the nature of the materials used, the closure will last longer than typical overnight maintenance.Despite the closures, traffic will still be able to cross the bridge in both directions at all times.However, NZTA is urging drivers to avoid the area when possible, recommending State Highway 16 as an alternative route to avoid congestion.State Highway 16, also known as the Western Ring Route, provides a detour between SH1 Constellation Drive and SH1 Manukau, using SH18, SH16, and SH20.This detour helps maintain traffic flow while work on the bridge is in progress.To minimise disruption, the resurfacing has been scheduled over the weekend to avoid affecting weekday commuter traffic.However, the work is weather dependent, meaning that adverse conditions may lead to delays or rescheduling.Motorists should plan ahead and consider using alternative routes to avoid delays this weekend.As always, please reduce speed and follow all traffic management instructions to ensure safety for both crews and drivers.Have a story to share from your neighbourhood?We’d love to hear from you! Send your news tips and stories to [email protected]

Auckland mayor Wayne Brown says he is all in for the next three years, as he launches his campaign for a second term of the mayoralty.Brown made the announcement at the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron in Auckland on Wednesday afternoon.The 78-year-old has been the mayor of the super city since 2022.Speaking at his campaign launch, Brown said there was still more to do in the city."We still manage to waste money at the council and it's CCOs," he said.Brown said he wanted Aucklanders to bring him back to finish what he started three years ago."With experience, leadership, and a deep love for this city, I know what it takes to keep Auckland moving forward," he said.Brown said he had the right tools to benefit Auckland."I'm sure that my political neutrality, and my own unique, friendly style, have helped get councillors to support many of the changes that I've driven..." he said."Similarly my neutrality and well known kind, gentle negotiating style have helped in the battle with governments of both major parties to get Auckland to be treated with respect."Brown told RNZ he invited people from the business sector, the property sector, Māori, Chinese, and Indian sectors, and people from South Auckland businesses to the campaign launch, but no sitting councillors were invited.Brown said he had not had discussions around who would be his deputy mayor for a second term."We don't know who's going to get in," he said."There'll be retirements, and so I didn't discuss that until well after I won last time."Brown was also asked who he was most scared to run against in the upcoming election."I hadn't even thought about that to be quite honest... Elon Musk," he said.Auckland councillor Kerrin Leoni was the only councillor to put her name forward for the city's top job so far and would be running as an independent candidate.It was also speculated Brown's own deputy Desley Simpson could challenge him for the job after the domain name, "DesleyforMayor.co.nz'' was registered by Desley Simpson's son in December.She told RNZ last month she had "not yet made a decision about what I intend to do this year"/

Repairs to a crucial section of Duck Creek Road, a key detour route during the construction of the O Mahurangi – Penlink highway, have now been completed.The work comes after significant storm damage caused a slip, which put local access and the Penlink project's progress at risk.The slip occurred at a corner on the northern side of Duck Creek Road, which links Stillwater to East Coast Bays Road. Auckland Transport (AT) identified the urgency of repairs to avoid further disruption."While Duck Creek Road usually caters for around 2,000 vehicle movements per day, the additional trucks hauling materials and machinery for the Penlink construction added stress to the road," said Alan Wallace, AT's General Manager of Road Asset Maintenance & Renewals.Fulton Hogan, AT's contractors, focused on reinforcing the road with three retaining walls, enhanced drainage, and improved driveway entrances.The contractors worked in phases, alternating sides of the road, and carefully manoeuvred a 55-tonne crane to maintain a power pole during construction.The improvements were finished with the installation of new pavement, a guardrail, and landscaping, with the road fully reopened on 7 February.Local resident Karen expressed satisfaction with the completed work: "I am really pleased with the completed roadworks, including our driveway. It's much easier to get out now it's all finished and the stretch of road looks amazing. Thank you for keeping us updated during construction, it wouldn't have been easy!""AT and Fulton Hogan would like to thank the residents of Duck Creek Road and visitors for their patience during this project," said Wallace.This road repair ensures continued smooth access to the Penlink construction site, a key development connecting Whangaparaoa Road to State Highway 1.It also reassures the local community that necessary precautions were taken to safeguard their access during this significant infrastructure project.Have a local news story to share?Contact [email protected]

The Reserve Bank of New Zealand's decision to reduce the Official Cash Rate (OCR) by 50 basis points has sparked optimism about the country's economic recovery. Finance Minister Nicola Willis welcomed the move, stating that the outlook for the economy was positive, with more jobs and opportunities on the horizon for New Zealanders.The OCR now stands at 3.75 percent, down from 5.5 percent last August. Willis highlighted that this was the fourth rate cut since August, with the Reserve Bank expecting further reductions throughout the year. These reductions are designed to ease the financial strain on families and businesses, while also supporting job growth.According to Willis, a growing economy means more money in people's pockets, which, in turn, stimulates consumer spending and supports business activity. “There are signs that this is already beginning to happen,” she said. “Business and consumer confidence are both trending upwards, and last week the BNZ and Business NZ reported that growth in manufacturing has risen to its highest level since September 2022.”Despite the challenges faced by many households and businesses, the Finance Minister expressed confidence in the nation's recovery. “The Government knows many families and businesses are doing it tough, but evidence is mounting that they can look forward to better times,” Willis said.The reduction in the OCR is expected to put downward pressure on interest rates, which will provide relief for those facing high borrowing costs. It also marks a significant shift from the period of high inflation, which had led to elevated interest rates and cost-of-living pressures for several months. With inflation now under control, the economy is heading in the right direction, according to Willis.For Hibiscus Coast residents, this news could bring relief. Local businesses may see increased consumer spending as lower interest rates take effect, and job seekers could benefit from the expected boost in employment. While challenges remain, the outlook for the region’s economy is brighter, with more opportunities ahead.Have a local news story to share?Contact [email protected]

Maintenance work to ensure the continued safety of wire rope barriers along State Highway 1 (SH1) – Ara Tūhono, between Pūhoi and Warkworth, commenced this week. The New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) has reported that crews are focused on maintaining a 5km stretch of barriers located between the Johnstones Hill tunnels and the Watson Rd bridge crossing (the third bridge when heading north).To minimise disruption for motorists, the maintenance work will occur overnight, from 6pm to 6am, Monday to Thursday. During these hours, a temporary speed limit of 60km/h will be in place, with a shoulder and single-lane closure near the work zone. At any given time, the work will be confined to a maximum of 1.5km within the larger 5km stretch.The maintenance is expected to take up to three weeks to complete, with work dependent on favourable weather conditions. Motorists are advised to stay alert for changes in road conditions during this period.This maintenance work aims to keep the motorway's safety features in top condition, ensuring smoother and safer travel for everyone using this key route.Have a local news story to share?Contact [email protected]

Auckland has earned two prestigious accolades at the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) Sky Choice Travel Awards, securing the title of "Destination of the Year" and seeing Auckland Airport crowned "International Airport of the Year."The January awards, assessed by a panel of travel experts, media professionals, and frequent travellers, acknowledged 120 standout brands across aviation, hospitality, and destinations.Auckland's recognition was based on its exceptional tourism offerings, growth in global aviation links, and its vibrant cultural scene.Nick Hill, Chief Executive of Tātaki Auckland Unlimited, expressed pride in the achievements, highlighting the city's commitment to excellence in providing a world-class experience for visitors."This recognition not only reflects the hard work and dedication of our team but also underscores Auckland’s growing stature as a leading global destination,” Hill said.“We’re excited to continue promoting Auckland’s stunning landscapes, rich Māori culture, and diverse cuisine.”Key strengths in Auckland’s submission included its cultural diversity, with over 200 ethnic communities, and its wide array of events such as sailing regattas, music festivals, and Māori celebrations.Auckland's natural beauty was also spotlighted, from its three harbours and 48 volcanic cones to its pristine beaches and nature reserves, offering outdoor experiences like sailing, surfing, and hiking.Auckland’s aviation connections to China were another highlight, with direct flights to seven major cities, including Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou, surpassing pre-pandemic levels.These strong air links have cemented Auckland’s position as a key global destination, further bolstered by the city’s recognition in Lonely Planet’s "Best in Travel 2022" and ranking third in TripAdvisor’s South Pacific region awards.As the recipient of the "Destination of the Year" award, Auckland joins a prestigious list of destinations vying for recognition from the Chinese travel industry.This award marks a significant milestone in the city's tourism sector, reaffirming Auckland’s appeal to international visitors and its growing global influence.Have a local news story to share?Contact [email protected]

A devastating fire has destroyed a home on Lees Street in Milldale today, with a parked car in the driveway also engulfed by flames. Nine fire engines from Fire and Emergency New Zealand were dispatched to the scene, along with police. While authorities have not confirmed if anyone was home at the time, neighbouring homes may have been affected by the blaze, with some residents reporting smoke damage.An eyewitness described the rapid spread of the fire, stating that the house was completely engulfed in flames within less than 30 minutes. "It was shocking how quickly it went up," they said.Despite the swift response, the house and car were destroyed. FENZ’s primary focus was controlling the blaze, and as of now, the cause of the fire has not been determined.The investigation will begin once fire crews have fully dealt with the situation.Local residents remain concerned about the potential impact on nearby homes, and Police are continuing to secure the area.Photos: The Hibiscus Coast App staff reporter.Have a local news story to share?Contact [email protected]

Coasties may have noticed something sweet becoming a little more expensive lately—chocolate bars.Whether it’s your daily treat or a gift for someone special, prices on the shelves have been creeping up, and it’s all due to a mix of global and local factors.A big part of the price increase comes from a shortage of cocoa.The majority of the world’s cocoa comes from West Africa, particularly Ivory Coast and Ghana, but poor harvests there have caused cocoa prices to skyrocket.A combination of extreme weather, disease, and underinvestment in cocoa farming has led to a dramatic drop in production.This has sent cocoa prices up by three times since early 2023, and as a result, chocolate makers worldwide—including in New Zealand—have had no choice but to pass those costs on to consumers.While New Zealand doesn’t grow cocoa, our local market hasn’t been spared.Cyclone Gabrielle in 2023 caused damage to infrastructure, which disrupted supply chains and drove up the cost of transporting goods.That’s made imported items like chocolate even more expensive here on the Hibiscus Coast.There’s also the issue of the New Zealand dollar (NZD).The NZD has weakened against the US dollar in the past year, and since a lot of the ingredients used in chocolate—like sugar and dairy—are priced in US dollars, this has added to the overall cost of chocolate bars.Big brands like Whittaker’s and Mondelez (which owns Cadbury) have confirmed they’ve raised prices in response to these rising costs.For example, Whittaker’s hiked prices by about 10% in late 2023. Supermarkets like Woolworths and Foodstuffs have reflected these price increases in their shelf prices as well.On top of all that, there’s ongoing talk about a potential sugar tax in New Zealand.Although it hasn’t been introduced yet, some believe chocolate makers might be raising prices now in anticipation of it, which could add further pressure on costs down the line.Another factor is the growing demand for ethically sourced cocoa.As more people want to ensure that their chocolate is Fair Trade-certified, manufacturers are facing higher costs to meet these sustainability standards.These costs, too, often get passed onto consumers.For now, it seems that chocolate prices are likely to stay high, with cocoa production expected to stabilise only in the coming years.This increase in prices is part of a wider trend in rising living costs that is impacting many household staples here on the Hibiscus Coast, making it a little harder for everyone to enjoy a good piece of chocolate.Have a local news story to share?Contact [email protected]

New Zealand Food Safety is urging customers to check their freezers after a recall was issued for Pams brand Tempura Coated Chicken Nuggets due to the possible presence of small pieces of blue rubber. The affected product is a 1kg bag with a best-before date of 16 October 2025.Deputy director-general of New Zealand Food Safety, Vincent Arbuckle, said, "If you have a 1kg bag of Pams Tempura Coated Chicken Nuggets with a best-before date of 16 October 2025, don’t eat them. Return the nuggets to the place of purchase for a refund or, if that’s not possible, throw them out."The affected products were sold at a number of New Zealand supermarkets, including Four Square, Gilmours, New World, Pak’nSave, and Social Supermarket stores nationwide.As a precautionary measure, the products have already been removed from the shelves.This issue was flagged by a customer complaint, and no injuries have been reported. "As is our usual practice, we will work with Foodstuffs Own Brands to understand how this issue arose and to prevent it from happening again," said Arbuckle.Consumers are advised to check the best-before date of the 1kg packages and to dispose of or return any affected products for a full refund. The recall is specific to this product, and no other Pams brand items are involved.If you have consumed any of the affected chicken nuggets and have health concerns, New Zealand Food Safety recommends seeking medical advice. The recall does not affect any other Pams products.Have a local news story to share?Contact [email protected]

In her opinion piece, Professor Alexandra Andhov from the University of Auckland’s Business and Law Schools warns that New Zealand faces significant challenges in regulating powerful tech companies such as Meta, Google, and Microsoft.As these multinational corporations expand their global influence, they operate beyond the control of most governments, raising concerns over national sovereignty and the effectiveness of local regulations.New Zealand has made several efforts in the past decade to curb the growing power of big tech through voluntary agreements and tax legislation.However, the rapid growth of these companies, predominantly based in the United States, has made it increasingly difficult for New Zealand to manage their impact on its society and economy.One of the most prominent challenges faced by New Zealand is the increasing role these tech companies play in moderating speech.Facebook, for example, has been accused of censoring political content and amplifying hate speech.The Christchurch terrorist attack livestreamed on Facebook highlighted New Zealand's limited power to prevent such content from spreading globally.In response, then-prime minister Jacinda Ardern launched the Christchurch Call initiative, aimed at combating online extremism.However, the ongoing cooperation of tech companies remains uncertain, with recent reports suggesting that support for the initiative is waning.New Zealand has also proposed measures to regulate big tech, including a 3% digital tax on the revenue of global tech giants.While this proposal signals an important step toward holding these companies accountable, its implementation is uncertain, with clauses in the law allowing for tax collection to be deferred until 2030.As big tech companies continue to push back against regulation, New Zealand's ability to manage their influence remains under strain.For residents of the Hibiscus Coast, the growing influence of big tech companies could have significant effects on local businesses, privacy, and access to information.As these global entities continue to dominate the digital landscape, it’s crucial for locals to stay informed about how New Zealand’s efforts to regulate them could shape the community.Whether it’s through taxes, content moderation, or competition laws, these decisions will have a direct impact on both the local economy and how residents interact with technology.The challenges New Zealand faces in regulating big tech reflect a broader global issue, with tech companies wielding unprecedented power.As these corporations continue to influence the digital world, there is an urgent need for more effective regulations to balance the benefits of digital connectivity with the protection of local democratic processes and sovereignty.Have a local news story to share?Contact [email protected]

Auckland FC’s captain Hiroki Sakai has signed a one-year contract extension, keeping him with the Black Knights until the end of the 2025/2026 season.The experienced Japanese right-back has become a key player for the team, contributing defensively and offensively.Sakai has been instrumental in Auckland FC’s strong defensive record, with the team conceding the fewest goals in the competition and keeping nine clean sheets.He has also made his mark on the score sheet, scoring once and providing an assist.Notably, Sakai has been involved in two memorable own goals, one in the season opener against Brisbane Roar and another during Auckland’s 2-1 derby win against Wellington.The 34-year-old, who has 74 appearances for the Japanese national team, expressed his delight in extending his stay in Auckland.“My family and I have really taken to Auckland. It is a beautiful city; we are all very settled, and the support we have all received has been incredible. As for this team, they are fantastic. I love playing with them and running out in front of our fans – the love and support I have received from them is like nothing else,” Sakai said.Having played in three FIFA World Cups and two Olympic Games, Sakai is one of the most high-profile overseas players in the A-League.He has made a significant impact in the competition, drawing praise for his professional attitude and technical ability.Head coach Steve Corica commended Sakai’s leadership, both on and off the field.“For all his quality, he is a very humble guy. He’s a great pro, a great influence on the younger guys, and a player who is highly regarded by everyone at the club,” said Corica.“On the pitch, he’s just fantastic. He covers an incredible amount of ground and is technically very gifted.”Auckland FC Head Coach Steve Corica. Photo: Auckland FCSakai’s extensive European experience includes 96 appearances for Germany’s Hannover 96 and over 145 matches for French club Olympique de Marseille.His contract extension ensures that Auckland FC fans can continue to enjoy his performances for at least another season.The extension of Sakai’s contract is not only great news for the club but also for the supporters who have grown to admire his talent and commitment.With so much more to achieve this season, Sakai's presence will be crucial for Auckland as they look to build on their successes.Have a local news story to share?Contact [email protected]

Every Tuesday, we spotlight a few standout job openings in our community. Check out this week’s picks, and be sure to share with anyone who might be looking!CHT Care HomesPosition: Healthcare Assistant (Casual)Location: Red BeachProvide personal care and support to residents, contributing to care plan reviewsOpportunity to advance in your healthcare career with flexible, roster-based shiftsView full listing & applySt. Pierre's SushiPosition: Sushi Staff MemberLocation: SilverdaleFlexible, varied hours with availability required for busy lunch shiftsNo experience needed; opportunity to learn and grow in the hospitality industryView full listing & applyWainui Golf Club & Function CentrePosition: Kitchen HandLocation: SilverdalePart-time position with 20-25 hours per week, including day-time shifts and potential weekend workOpportunity for career advancement in a supportive kitchen environmentView full listing & applyCareer Tip of the weekAlways follow up after an interview with a thank-you note. It shows gratitude, reinforces your interest in the role, and gives you an opportunity to briefly reiterate why you’re the best fit for the job.That’s it for this week’s local job roundup. Looking for more opportunities? Browse all local job listings on our jobs page. Keep an eye out next Tuesday for more great opportunities, and don’t forget to share with friends and neighbours who might be interested!Have a job to post? Submit your listing here.

A Northland fishing company has been fined $16,500 after failing to use mandatory bird-scaring equipment and submitting false statements on fish landing returns.Macnicol Fishing Limited was sentenced in the North Shore District Court on Friday, 14 February 2025, after being found guilty of three charges under the Fisheries Act. The prosecution was led by Fisheries New Zealand, which uncovered the violations while monitoring the company’s operations.The company’s fishing vessel, the Carolina M, was found to have longlined without using tori lines, which are designed to prevent seabird bycatch during surface longlining. Fisheries New Zealand district manager Glen Blackwell emphasised that these lines are a key tool for protecting endangered seabirds."All longliners are expected to use tori lines when surface longlining. Video footage showed the Carolina M was operating without this essential equipment, increasing the risk of capturing protected seabirds," said Blackwell.In addition to this, another of Macnicol Fishing’s vessels, the Kiella, was caught misreporting its catch location in electronic reports. The vessel indicated that fish were caught off the Bay of Plenty when, in fact, they were harvested from waters north of Auckland. A second incorrect report was filed the following month, detailing the location of snapper and trevally catches.Mr Blackwell stressed the importance of accurate reporting for sustainable fisheries management. "It is a fisher’s responsibility to accurately report their catch. This information is crucial when setting catch limits, which is why we take misreporting seriously," he explained.The incidents have raised concerns about the company’s commitment to complying with regulations designed to protect marine life and ensure sustainability. Fisheries New Zealand is continuing to monitor commercial fishing practices closely to prevent similar violations.For Coasties who suspect illegal fishing activities, MPI urges the public to report them through the ministry’s 0800 4 POACHER helpline (0800 476 224).Have a local news story to share?Contact [email protected]

Coasties can show their support for the Silverdale Fire Station team as they travel to Mataura to compete in the UFBA National Waterway Challenge.The event, held on Friday, 21 February, and Saturday, 22 February, at the Tulloch Rugby Park in Mataura, brings together over 130 firefighters from around New Zealand.The Silverdale team will join forces with other volunteer fire brigades from the North and South Islands, including Wellsford, Ahuroa, and West Harbour.Competitors will demonstrate their teamwork and firefighting skills in a series of challenges, testing their hose-running and pump-operating abilities.The United Fire Brigades' Association National Waterway Challenge has been a staple of New Zealand's firefighting community since 1885.The event provides a fun and competitive environment for firefighters to showcase their skills and learn from one another.The challenges will take place on a specially designed track featuring 19 different setups, simulating various rural and urban firefighting scenarios.Teams will compete against each other and the clock, with the goal of completing each challenge in the fastest time possible.We wish the Silverdale team all the best for a successful and enjoyable competition!Have a local news story to share?Contact [email protected]

Overseas visitor arrivals to New Zealand totalled 3.3 million in the year ending December 2024, marking a notable increase of 12 percent (357,000 more arrivals) from the previous year, according to data released by Stats NZ.Australia was the leading source of this growth, contributing 127,000 additional visitors (10 percent increase). China followed with a 64 percent surge, adding 97,000 visitors, and the United States saw an increase of 32,000 visitors (10 percent). “There were just over 2,200 more international flights to New Zealand in 2024 than in 2023,” said Sarah Drake, Stats NZ’s international travel statistics spokesperson. “This included 1,700 more direct flights from Australia, China, and the United States, combined. These countries were the three main sources of visitor arrivals to New Zealand.”The overall breakdown showed that Australia remained the dominant source, with 1.4 million visitors. The United States followed with a record-breaking 370,000 visitors, marking the highest annual arrivals from the US to date. Other notable contributors included China with 248,000 visitors, the United Kingdom (180,000), and India (83,000).Notably, a significant portion of these visitors came for leisure travel. In 2024, 1.6 million overseas visitors came for holidays, representing a 21 percent increase (279,000 more) compared to 2023. “A holiday was the main purpose of travel for just over half of visitor arrivals in 2024,” Drake added. In addition, visiting friends and relatives remained a popular reason for travel, accounting for one-third of arrivals, with 1 million people travelling for this purpose, up 6 percent from the previous year.December 2024 marked the highest monthly total for visitor arrivals in five years, reaching 469,800, up 12 percent from 418,900 in December 2023. This was the highest monthly total since December 2019, just before the COVID-19 disruptions to international travel. Visitor numbers for December 2024 were 89 percent of their pre-pandemic level, reflecting a strong rebound in international tourism.The increase in overseas visitors is a welcome development for the local economy, especially for tourism-dependent regions, and underscores New Zealand’s recovery as an international destination.Have a local news story to share?Contact [email protected]

Cirque du Soleil’s highly anticipated show Corteo will make its debut in New Zealand this October, bringing its whimsical charm and breathtaking performances to Spark Arena. Directed by Daniele Finzi Pasca, the show has captivated over 12 million spectators worldwide since its premiere in 2005. Audiences will have the opportunity to experience this iconic production during a limited six-show run from October 30 to November 2, 2025.Geoff Jones, CEO of TEG Group, expressed excitement for the show’s arrival in New Zealand: "It is no secret that New Zealand loves Cirque du Soleil. We are thrilled to continue our long-standing relationship with this incredible organisation. It is a privilege to work with such a talented group of people who embrace boundless creativity. We know the fans will be blown away by Corteo. This show is everything that you love about Cirque du Soleil and so much more."The performance tells the story of a clown envisioning his own funeral in a carnival setting, watched over by angelic figures. The show blends comedy, tragedy, and the beauty of imperfection, portraying the clown’s wisdom, kindness, and strength. Set against a unique double-sided stage design, Corteo offers an innovative viewing experience, with the audience split into two facing halves of the arena, creating an immersive atmosphere like never before.Corteo’s one-of-a-kind stage, inspired by the Eiffel Tower, adds grandeur to the show, which fuses the charm of traditional circus artistry with modern theatrical elements. The set’s hand-painted curtains and central staging enhance the spectacle, making it a visual and emotional journey for both performers and audience alike.Tickets for Corteo will be available exclusively to Club Cirque members starting tomorrow at 11am. General ticket sales open on Monday 24 February, 12pm.Have a local news story to share?Contact [email protected]

A new campaign is set to boost New Zealand's tourism industry, aiming to encourage Australians to choose the country for their next holiday. Launching in Australia this week, the initiative marks the first phase of the Government’s Tourism Boost, an effort to drive both international tourism and economic growth in 2025.Tourism and Hospitality Minister Louise Upston expressed excitement about the campaign’s potential. "We always love to see our Australian friends holidaying here, staying with local accommodation providers, soaking up Kiwi experiences, and enjoying hospitality in restaurants, bars, and cafes," she said.Tourism remains a key economic driver for New Zealand, with domestic and international tourism expenditure approaching $38 billion and supporting nearly 200,000 jobs. Minister Upston highlighted the role of this campaign in sustaining the sector’s growth. “This is the first investment for our Tourism Boost, utilising $500,000 from the International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy, with more initiatives planned,” she said.While Australian visitor numbers are currently at around 88 per cent of 2019 levels, the campaign seeks to boost this figure further. "Visitor arrivals from Australia increased by over 90,000 last year, rising from 1.27 million to 1.36 million," Upston noted. The new push, with the tagline “Everyone must go,” is designed to inspire even more Australians to visit New Zealand soon, highlighting both the affordability of the trips and the country's open-for-business attitude.Upston revealed that figures show around 4 million Australians are actively considering a holiday in New Zealand, indicating a large potential market for growth. “We all want to encourage Australians to visit, spend, and have a fantastic time in New Zealand,” she added, pointing out that Tourism New Zealand has partnered with other organisations to support the campaign.The campaign is part of the broader Government initiative known as Going For Growth, which aims to unlock New Zealand’s economic potential through strategic investment and industry collaboration. Upston emphasised the importance of working alongside businesses to ensure both short-term and long-term tourism growth.The campaign follows the Government's commitment to strengthening the tourism sector, which continues to be an essential pillar for New Zealand's economic recovery and sustainability.Have a local news story to share?Contact [email protected]