Are you a news avoider? Do you turn off the six o’clock TV news, scroll past headlines, skip radio bulletins – or just ignore news entirely?If you do some or all of these things, you are not alone. A new survey shows New Zealand has some of the highest rates of news avoidance in the world.With news media already struggling with declining revenues and audiences, this adds to the immense challenges the sector faces in a competitive and politically polarised environment.Previous research has found news avoidance is increasing around the world. But New Zealanders have also shown something of a love-hate relationship with the news: avoidance rates are high, but so too is general interest in the news. At the same time, trust in the media has been steadily declining.Are you a news avoider? Do you turn off the six o’clock TV news, scroll past headlines, skip radio bulletins – or just ignore news entirely?If you do some or all of these things, you are not alone. A new survey shows New Zealand has some of the highest rates of news avoidance in the world.With news media already struggling with declining revenues and audiences, this adds to the immense challenges the sector faces in a competitive and politically polarised environment.Previous research has found news avoidance is increasing around the world. But New Zealanders have also shown something of a love-hate relationship with the news: avoidance rates are high, but so too is general interest in the news. At the same time, trust in the media has been steadily declining.Women reported higher rates of news avoidance than men. This could be due to a legacy of unequal access to the news, and a perceived lack of diverse voices in New Zealand’s news production, causing some to feel the news just isn’t for them.We also found people with far-left or far-right political beliefs were more likely to avoid the news than those with centrist views. Those nearer the ends of the political spectrum are less likely to find their views represented in major news outlets and therefore seek alternative news sources that support their worldview.Avoiding depressing and untrustworthy newsThe major reason given for news avoidance is the negative effect news has on mood (32.7%).Most immediately, New Zealand had been hit by severe floods in Auckland and Cyclone Gabrielle in the North Island only a month before our survey. But more generally, there has been increased concern about the impact of news consumption on personal wellbeing since the pandemic.Similarly, many New Zealanders are experiencing news fatigue, with nearly 20% of respondents saying they were worn out by the sheer quantity of news these days.The second most popular reason given was a perception the news was untrustworthy or biased (30.1%). People with right-wing political beliefs were more likely to cite this.This suggests the decline in trust might be more about right-wing audiences perceiving a left-wing bias in the media, rather than a general distrust of New Zealand media overall.Roughly a quarter of respondents said the news is too sensationalist (25.3%). Ironically, the use of clickbait and alarming headlines to engage audiences may be driving them away in the competitive attention economy.In contrast, younger people (18–24) were more likely to cite not having enough time as a reason for avoiding the news.Does news avoidance matter?Our high rates of news avoidance say several things about audiences. On one hand, skipping the news occasionally can help manage stress and keep people interested in the long run.This might explain why New Zealanders show high rates of both news avoidance and interest in the news: avoiding the news some of the time might help people manage their overall ability to engage and care.Furthermore, despite high news avoidance rates, voter turnout at the 2023 general election was 78%. News avoidance may not affect civic participation.However, we also found New Zealanders have high rates of very low or no news consumption at all. Just over 13% of participants reported they avoid the news “almost always”, more than in any other survey internationally.Instead of consuming traditional news, many are likely turning to YouTube, social media and blogs, which often lack the more rigorous journalistic standards applied by mainstream media.Scapegoating the news mediaIt might be easy to conclude New Zealand’s high rates of news avoidance are an implicit criticism of the media themselves. But this is to overlook the nature of their work and the immense challenges they face.Holding governments to account and covering crises or divisive issues can be an unpopular and thankless task. Blaming the messenger is perhaps an understandable response.But we also expect the news media to compete with information giants such as Facebook and Google, which do not employ journalists or recognise any real responsibility in disseminating news.This feeds a commercial environment where traditional media must compete for attention and revenue against platforms that operate without the same ethical and professional standards.Our findings also highlight the difficulty of satisfying an increasingly polarised news audience. With diverse groups perceiving bias and untrustworthiness differently, it’s nearly impossible to keep everyone happy.With Google recently threatening to remove local news from its search engine due to its opposition to the Fair Digital News Bargaining Bill (which would require digital platforms to pay for news content), these issues are not going away soon.Rather than scapegoat the media for high news avoidance rates, we see our survey results as part of a broader argument for supporting and strengthening what is an essential service in a functioning democracy.Authors:Alex Beattie, Lecturer, Media and Communication — Victoria University of WellingtonJohn Kerr, Senior Research Fellow, Department of Public Health — University of OtagoRichard Arnold, Professor of Statistics and Data Science — Victoria University of Wellington

A new study highlights a surprising trend: despite advancements in artificial intelligence, investors continue to place more trust in human analysts over AI systems for stock market predictions.The research, conducted by Dr. Gertjan Verdickt from the University of Auckland and Francesco Stradi of KU Leuven, surveyed 3,600 U.S. participants to gauge their trust in different sources of financial forecasts. The study presented stock predictions from human analysts, AI systems, and a combination of both. Ultimately, human analysts were deemed the most trustworthy, with AI predictions facing significant skepticism."We found that investors are more likely to believe human analysts first, followed by a combination of both human and AI," Verdickt said. He added that these findings were unexpected, given AI's reputation for precise data analysis. "While AI can outperform human analysts in some cases, trust remains a considerable barrier."University of Auckland lecturer Dr Gertjan VerdicktThe study also revealed demographic differences in trust levels. Women and people with a strong understanding of AI were more receptive to AI-generated advice, while men generally showed more skepticism. "Men tend to be overconfident in their financial abilities, which may explain their reluctance to trust AI," Verdickt explained. Political affiliation also influenced trust, with Democrats showing a greater tendency to trust AI forecasts than Republicans.The researchers further tested whether familiarity with AI tools like ChatGPT might boost trust. However, substituting "AI" with "ChatGPT" did not increase trust. In fact, ChatGPT was viewed with even more caution. "Our results suggest that merely replacing ‘AI’ with a more familiar name like ChatGPT does not improve investor confidence," Verdickt said.Verdickt believes these insights could guide financial institutions in how they implement AI. He emphasised the need for clear communication about AI's role in financial analysis and suggested that organisations should consider demographic factors when integrating AI tools. The findings also hint at the potential need for regulatory guidelines to ensure transparency in AI-based financial services.

A multi-vehicle crash blocked the northbound lanes of the Northern Motorway near Dairy Flat around 2:50pm.Police were alerted after a vehicle was stolen in Point Chevalier and pursued to the motorway, where the collision occurred.The section of the motorway between Oteha Valley and Dairy Flat is currently closed, and police investigations are underway.The Serious Crash Unit is on-site, and traffic diversions are in place to assist motorists.Expect long delays.NZTA recommends, exit at Oteha Valley Off-Ramp and detour via East Coast Hwy or Dairy Flats Hwy. Far North Traffic use SH16.

Kiwis are poised to see some exciting developments in renewable energy, as the Government moves forward with plans to establish a framework for offshore renewable energy generation.This initiative aims to unlock the potential of New Zealand's untapped offshore energy resources and further the nation’s commitment to sustainable, low-emission power.According to recent announcements, the Government will soon introduce legislation to create a comprehensive offshore renewable energy regime.This regime is designed to foster investment in large-scale clean energy projects, with the ultimate goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting an eco-friendly economy.By setting up this framework, New Zealand aims to meet its net-zero emissions target by 2050, while doubling its supply of affordable, clean energy for various sectors, including transport and industry.A key feature of the new legislation is the introduction of two types of permits tailored specifically for offshore renewable energy projects: a feasibility permit and a commercial permit.The feasibility permit will provide developers with exclusive rights to apply for commercial permits and secure environmental approvals within designated areas.On the other hand, the commercial permit will allow developers to proceed with the construction and operation of offshore energy infrastructure, once all necessary consents are obtained.The move signals the Government’s intent to support renewable energy projects that align with national interests.By clarifying the requirements and granting specific permits, the legislation aims to offer developers greater certainty and attract investment.Officials expect the Bill to reach Parliament by late 2024.With these new regulations, New Zealand is taking a significant step towards a cleaner and more sustainable future.This shift also promises to diversify the country’s energy sources and bolster the economy with green job opportunities.

A new law dedicated to restoring the health of the Hauraki Gulf has officially passed, marking a pivotal moment in the conservation efforts for the region. The Hauraki Gulf Marine Protection Bill, recently approved by Cabinet with amendments, aims to bolster marine protection and ensure the Gulf’s unique habitats are preserved for future generations.Minister of Conservation Tama Potaka acknowledged the extensive work that has gone into this legislation, highlighting the importance of focusing efforts on areas that yield the highest conservation benefits.“Committing to progressing this Bill means we are targeting our efforts into high-value conservation areas delivering the best outcomes for biodiversity,” Potaka stated.The Hauraki Gulf, known for its diverse marine ecosystems, is home to dog cockle beds, kelp forests, and fragile coral structures. Remarkably, one-third of all seabirds that breed in New Zealand nest in this region. The new Bill establishes 19 additional marine protection areas, which will almost triple the protected zones within the Gulf.In addition to conservation, the legislation acknowledges the Gulf’s significant economic role. The NZ Institute of Economic Research recently estimated the Gulf’s economic value at approximately $100 billion, highlighting its contribution to sectors such as tourism and fishing. Minister of Conservation Tama PotakaPotaka emphasised the need to strike a balance between ecological preservation and economic interests.“Our amendments ensure we are putting in place modern marine protection that balances the needs of communities, the environment, and the economy,” he said. An example of this balance is the provision allowing customary non-commercial fishing rights to continue, maintaining traditional practices while safeguarding marine habitats.Some restrictions, like limited ring-net fishing in protected zones, will remain for a small number of fishers supplying local communities. According to Potaka, this method minimally impacts non-targeted marine species, aligning with the Bill’s environmental goals.The Government also plans to introduce monitoring initiatives to assess the effectiveness of the new protected areas, funded by the International Visitor Levy and reallocated resources from Vote Conservation. Potaka concluded with an optimistic note on securing biodiversity for future generations, emphasising a commitment to both economic growth and environmental stewardship.

The Government is taking significant steps to ensure that all Coasties have access to affordable and secure electricity. Energy Minister Simeon Brown recently unveiled the Government Policy Statement (GPS) on electricity, which lays out a comprehensive plan aimed at keeping electricity prices competitive for both households and businesses.“New Zealand’s economic growth and prosperity relies on Kiwi households and businesses having access to affordable and secure electricity at internationally competitive prices. This is one of the Government’s top priorities,” Mr Brown said.The GPS sets forth the Government's expectation that the Electricity Authority will promote a more competitive and fuel-agnostic electricity sector. The goal is to ensure that this sector operates in the long-term interests of consumers while avoiding excessive pricing.Energy Minister Simeon BrownMr Brown explained that an increase in electricity demand is anticipated due to the electrification of transport and industrial processes. “In the coming years, New Zealand will see greater electrification of transport and process heat. This will shift demand from imported fuels to domestically produced electricity, and more distributed electricity generation will be brought online to enhance regional resilience,” he said.To meet this demand, the Government has set a goal to double renewable electricity generation. The plan includes committing to policies that encourage private investment in this area."The GPS provides certainty about the Government’s role in the sector. This certainty will help create a stable investment environment for renewable energy, driving affordability through a secure supply," Mr Brown added.He also noted that previous government interventions had sometimes resulted in higher prices and dampened investment. “The GPS confirms that the role of Government is to ensure the market settings are right, enabling the private sector to invest and allowing consumers to benefit from innovations,” he stated.Moving forward, the Electricity Authority will consider the GPS as it works to create the right market conditions to stimulate private sector investment and help consumers take advantage of advancements in energy supply.As our community navigates these developments, the Government's commitment to affordable electricity may play a pivotal role in supporting local businesses and households on the Hibiscus Coast.

Auckland, get ready! In just a year, locals will head to the polls to select the next Auckland Council Governing Body and local board members. These officials will shape the city’s future, tackling big projects like the City Rail Link and Central Interceptor, due to finish in 2025.For Auckland’s Governing Body, the elected leaders, including the mayor and ward councillors, will focus on city-wide decisions. Meanwhile, 21 local boards will each choose members who’ll concentrate on community-level issues. Together, they’ll manage a range of responsibilities, from parks and libraries to infrastructure and emergency readiness.Auckland Council’s chief executive, Phil Wilson, highlights the importance of the upcoming elections. “Elected members need to blend leadership, advocacy, and decision-making,” Wilson says. “They’ll represent Auckland’s diverse population, which makes this city so unique.”Auckland’s rapid growth and diverse communities require leaders who understand the city’s needs. Whether it’s advancing housing, transportation, or environmental goals, these elected officials will have a hand in nearly every aspect of city life.Thinking about running? Candidate nominations will open on 4 July 2025. It’s a great opportunity to make a difference and represent your community. You can find all the nomination details online. And whether you’re running or not, make sure you’re enrolled to vote!

Welcome to This Week’s News Recap!Catch up on the top local stories from the past week before the weekend hits.We’ve rounded up the must-know headlines so you’re fully informed about our community.Missed something or just need a quick update? We’ve got you covered.Dive into this week’s key events now!Greater Awareness of Shingles Complications Risk NeededRead more hereLife Pharmacy Orewa Celebrates 75 Years Serving CommunityRead more hereHibiscus Coast 4-day ForecastRead more hereSH1 and SH18 Closures ScheduledRead more hereStay Informed and Connected.Get all your local updates at your fingertips.From breaking news and local business finds to job listings and events—our app has it all.Don’t wait for the recap.Explore the Hibiscus Coast App and stay ahead!

The New Zealand government has announced a comprehensive plan to improve the country's emergency management systems, focusing on bolstering resilience and preparedness in the face of natural disasters.Emergency Management and Recovery Minister Mark Mitchell shared the long-term vision, following insights from the recent North Island Severe Weather Events (NISWE) Inquiry.“It’s clear from the North Island Severe Weather Events Inquiry that our emergency management system was not fit-for-purpose,” Minister Mitchell explained.He referenced the profound impact of recent events like Cyclone Gabrielle and the Auckland Anniversary floods, which underscored the need for systemic change.The strategy, called Strengthening Disaster Resilience and Emergency Management, outlines a five-year roadmap to enhance New Zealand’s disaster response capabilities.The Government aims to build a more adaptive and capable system, prepared for future challenges.Key Areas of ImprovementThe Government’s approach will focus on five critical areas:Adopting a Whole-of-Society Approach: The strategy emphasises collaboration across sectors and communities, underscoring the shared responsibility of emergency management.Supporting Local Government: Local authorities will receive enhanced resources to ensure consistent emergency preparedness and response standards nationwide.Professionalizing the Workforce: To improve response capabilities, the plan includes measures to strengthen training and develop a more skilled emergency management workforce.Streamlining System Coordination: Efforts will be made to facilitate better communication and cooperation among all emergency services and support agencies.Strategic Investment and Implementation: The plan includes a long-term focus on sustainable funding and strategic planning to ensure reliable delivery of improvements.Minister Mitchell acknowledged that while some findings from the NISWE Inquiry were not new, the urgency for change is growing.“While changes will take time, there are things we can all do now to strengthen our emergency management system,” he remarked, encouraging New Zealanders to take proactive steps like creating personal emergency plans.Looking ahead, the Government plans to introduce an Emergency Management Bill later this term, providing a legal framework for these enhancements.Minister Mitchell also announced that a public-facing roadmap will be released early next year, detailing the implementation timeline for the proposed initiatives.Mitchell emphasised that preparing for emergencies is a collective responsibility.“We all have a role to play to keep ourselves and our communities safe in an emergency,” he stated, encouraging everyone to contribute to a more resilient future.The NISWE Inquiry served as the foundation for these updates, highlighting areas where New Zealand’s emergency response system could be strengthened.Minister Mitchell’s plan reflects a commitment to building a disaster management framework that can adapt to evolving challenges while protecting the well-being of all New Zealanders.

Residents on the Hibiscus Coast and frequent commuters should be aware of upcoming closures on State Highway 1 (SH1) and State Highway 18 (SH18) due to maintenance work scheduled by the NZ Transport Agency (NZTA).The work will take place over several nights, with closures affecting both northbound and southbound lanes at various locations.Starting Sunday, October 13, SH1 will see full closures southbound between Oteha Valley Road and Constellation Drive from 10 pm to 5 am.This section of SH1 will also be closed on Monday, October 14, between Silverdale interchange and Oteha Valley Road, beginning at 9 pm and lasting until 5 am.Work will then continue northbound on Tuesday, October 15, from Oteha Valley Road to Orewa interchange from 10 pm to 5 am.Finally, on Wednesday, October 16, the northbound section between Constellation Drive and Oteha Valley Road will close during the same overnight hours.In addition to SH1, SH18 will also be affected, with closures westbound from Paul Matthews Road to Albany Highway on Sunday, October 13, between 10 pm and 5 am.Each night, multiple maintenance activities such as road resurfacing and vegetation control are expected to increase noise levels in the areas.NZTA advises drivers to be mindful of ramp closures along these routes.For example, the southbound Greville Road on-ramp and off-ramp will be closed on October 13, while the Oteha Valley Road southbound off-ramp will shut down on October 14.Similar closures will occur on SH18 at Paul Matthews Road and Albany Highway, with detour routes signposted for affected drivers.For those driving northbound on Tuesday, closures will include ramps at Oteha Valley Road, Silverdale, and Orewa.Heavy vehicles over 3,500 kg will need to follow an alternative route via the Hibiscus Coast Highway and Old State Highway 1, as Grand Drive will be restricted for such vehicles.This maintenance work is weather-dependent and may result in date changes.

A Northland business group is welcoming the heavy focus on infrastructure in the government's list of local projects singled out for fast-tracked consenting.The 11 projects on Northland's list are mostly essential infrastructure such as roads, rail and housing with broad community support - but they also include a contentious sand mining proposal and a port expansion which was refused consent earlier this year.Few Northlanders will argue with the plan to build an alternative route to the notoriously slip-prone State Highway 1 over the Brynderwyn Hills, or with a Māori health provider's plan to build up to 100 affordable homes for the "working poor" in Kaikohe.Crucial but unglamorous projects such as upgrading Kaikohe's ageing sewage treatment plant are also on the list, as is a long-delayed proposal for a railway link to Northport - one of only a few ports in New Zealand not connected to the national rail network.NorthChamber chief executive Leah McKerrow said the list was good news for Northland."We are very pleased, particularly with the heavy focus on infrastructure because, obviously, accessibility for Northland businesses is critical. The key for us is that that they are able to be moved along as quickly as possible."McKerrow said some projects, such as the wastewater upgrade, were "absolutely critical"."But anything that's actually helping our roading and our rail link is going to be advantageous to a much greater number of businesses in Northland. So those are the ones that we really feel are quite urgent to progress," she said.A plan to expand Northport, rejected by independent commissioners earlier this year, is on the list of Northland projects eligible for fast-tracked consenting. Photo: SuppliedConsent for a major expansion of Northport, at Marsden Point, was refused by independent commissioners in July this year.The main reason was the loss of recreational and cultural values arising from the reclamation of a popular beach to make way for a container terminal.Northport is already appealing that decision, but chief executive Jon Moore said the project's inclusion on the fast-track list added an extra consenting pathway for the board to consider.Whether it was a viable option would depend on the final wording and provisions of the fast-track consenting bill.Moore said Northport firmly believed the project had the potential to stimulate economic development in Northland and strengthen the resilience of the national supply chain network.Opposition to the port expansion was led by the Patuharakeke Te Iwi Trust Board.At the time, spokesperson Juliane Chetham hailed the commissioners' decision at the time as "clear and correct".Patuharakeke has been contacted for comment.Perhaps the most controversial project on the list - given opposition to similar operations further down the coast - is a proposal to mine sand off Waipū Cove in Bream Bay.Natalie Jessup, general manager of Tāngaro Tuia te Ora-Endangered Species Foundation, said the potential fast-tracking of sand mining was deeply disappointing."This is a heart-breaking blow for Aotearoa's coastline. Bream Bay, like Mangawhai and Pākiri, is home to some of our most vulnerable species, including the critically endangered tara iti [New Zealand fairy tern]. Approving sand mining here is not only environmentally destructive but a betrayal of the communities who have fought to protect these areas for decades."Jessup said sand was not a critical mineral, because it was neither rare nor facing supply shortages, so should not be included in the fast-track list.Some projects are notable for their omission from the list.There had been speculation a $14 million project originally funded by the Provincial Growth Fund to build breakwaters around Paihia, protecting the town from easterly storms, might be included.That project, however, was abandoned in 2022 not due to consenting difficulties but due to soaring costs. It had also divided the Paihia community.Another contentious project not on the list is a stalled, PGF-funded boat ramp and reclamation at Rangitane in Kerikeri Inlet.The Northland listFar North housing (applicant: Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Takoto): Development of 140 house sites, water storage and campsite redevelopment.Kaikohe housing (Te Hau Ora O Ngāpuhi): 100-unit affordable housing development on Bisset Rd.Northport expansion (Northport): New container terminal and wharf extension.SH1 Whangārei to Port Marsden Highway (NZTA Waka Kotahi): Four-laning of 22km of SH1 south of Whangārei, including upgrade of the SH1/SH15 intersection.SH1 Brynderwyn Hills alternative (NZTA Waka Kotahi): Plan, design and deliver an alternative to the current SH1 over the Brynderwyns.Shipyard and drydock (MBIE): Build and operate a marine maintenance facility at Northport capable of servicing Navy ships and New Zealand's biggest vessels.Kaikohe wastewater treatment plant upgrade (Far North District Council): Resolve noncompliance and improve the treatment process, and create capacity for planned affordable housing developments.Marsden Point rail link (KiwiRail): Build a 19km rail link from Oakleigh, south of Whangārei, to Northport.Lake Ōmāpere restoration (Lake Ōmāpere Trust): Restore the mauri [life force] and water quality of Lake Ōmāpere through dredging, wetland construction and water level management.Bream Bay sand extraction (McCallum Brothers): Sand mining over a proposed 35-year consent period.Muriwhenua aquaculture (Te Aupōuri Fisheries Management): Develop nine marine farms around the top of the Far North.To see the full list click here.

It’s been just over a year since University of Auckland law student Jean-Luc Ellis and two friends founded WasteXpert, a start-up focused on diverting construction and demolition waste from landfills.In that short time, the WasteXpert team has turned their passion for sustainability into tangible results, gaining recognition for their innovative approach.Ellis, alongside co-founders Max Lawton and Logan Soole, started WasteXpert with a vision to revolutionise waste management within the construction sector.The team developed a software platform, WasteX, which tracks, analyses, and reports waste data in real time.This technology helps contractors streamline waste management, reduce costs, and minimize their environmental impact.The start-up’s efforts caught the attention of major partners like Auckland Council, as well as key stakeholders across the industry.WasteXpert’s commitment was further recognised when they won the Velocity $100k Challenge in 2023, providing the financial backing and industry validation needed to fuel their growth.The WasteXpert team: Logan Soole, Jean-Luc Ellis and Max LawtonThis week, Ellis was honoured with the prestigious University of Auckland Blues Award for Most Meritorious Innovation, acknowledging his team’s contribution to sustainable practices.The award, given to outstanding individuals in various fields, underscores WasteXpert’s success in disrupting a traditionally wasteful industry.Innovative Approach and Industry ImpactThe construction industry is known for its high waste output, with much of the debris ending up in landfills.WasteXpert’s software and consulting services offer an alternative, guiding clients on waste separation and diversion to reduce their carbon footprint.“The typical way of doing things increases the industry’s carbon footprint,” Ellis explained.“We offer contractors a way to combat inefficiency, save money, and reduce emissions and waste.”The team currently monitors waste on over 20 projects, with real-time data tracking being a game-changer for their clients.“Being adaptable has allowed for quick changes to ensure our solutions always maintain value for customers,” he added.Jean-Luc says convincing contractors to explore new waste management methods has required persistence and adaptability.A Bright Future for WasteXpertWinning the Velocity $100k Challenge was a significant milestone for WasteXpert, boosting their resources and morale.Ellis sees this as just the beginning: “Over the next year, we’ll develop version two of our software platform, continue to grow, and begin our expansion into the UK and European markets.”The WasteXpert team is now focused on securing additional funding, engaging with investors and venture capital firms to support their next phase of growth.With their entrepreneurial mindset and adaptability, Ellis and his team are poised to make a substantial impact on the global stage.

RBNZ cuts official cash rate by 50 basis points to 4.75% - lowest since February 2023Slowing inflation and subdued economy justify bigger cutEconomists and financial markets overwhelmingly backed 50 basis point cutRBNZ says the size and speed of future cuts will be determined by state of the economyRetail banks already cut some rates in anticipationThe Reserve Bank has cut its benchmark cash rate by 50 basis points.The central bank cut the official cash rate (OCR) to 4.75 percent, as expected, to its lowest level in 18 months, saying the bigger than usual rate cut was justified by slowing inflation and the slack in the economy."The Committee agreed that it is appropriate to cut the OCR by 50 basis points to achieve and maintain low and stable inflation, while seeking to avoid unnecessary instability in output, employment, interest rates, and the exchange rate," the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) said in a statement.It said the speed and size of future rate cuts would be determined by economic data.Retail banks have been quick to cut lending rates in anticipation of the big sized cut.Within minutes of the Reserve Bank's announcement that it would cut the official cash rate, banks had revealed they were lowering home loan interest rates.ASB said it would cut its variable home loan rate from 8.39 percent to 7.89 percent.Its Orbit rate would drop to 7.99 percent.Executive general manager, personal banking, Adam Boyd said 120,000 customers would be affected."We do expect this downward OCR trend to continue into 2025 which will provide further relief."ASB was also cutting savings rates - its on-call interest rate would drop from 2.65 percent to 2.15 percent. The Headstart youth account rate would drop from 4.75 percent to 4.15 percent.Earlier in the day, ASB announced cuts of 10 basis points across a number of fixed terms, and a 16bop reduction for the one-year rate.BNZ said it, too, would pass on the full OCR cut to variable home loans.General manager, home lending products James Leydon said the OCR cut would be welcome news for many households."We are continually assessing our interest rates and looking for opportunities to pass on rate reductions to our customers. Customers will benefit from our latest variable rate change which is effective from tomorrow," Leydon said."BNZ will continue to move quickly in response to changes in external factors, including the Official Cash Rate and wholesale interest rates, to ensure we're passing rate changes on to our customers as quickly as possible."Westpac said it would cut its floating rates by 50 basis points and would cut fixed terms by 10.General manager of product Sarah Hearn said it was also reducing its test rate - the rate at which it checks that borrowers can afford lending - to 8.15 percent."We're pleased to be delivering another rate cut for our home loan customers, and confidence boost we expect this will provide to households and small businesses. Westpac's economists estimate that nearly half of all homeowners on fixed rates will have rolled onto lower rates by the end of the year."At the same time, we know many households are still facing cost pressures, while our savings customers will be watching falling interest rates closely."We continue to proactively contact home loan customers who may be facing into financial difficulty, and we encourage anyone who's concerned about their financial situation to get in touch."Kiwibank said on Tuesday it was reducing its variable rate by 50bps.The chief economist at property research firm Corelogic, Kelvin Davidson, said the RBNZ statement had a sense of urgency."There's a sense in the Reserve Bank's commentary that they feel a need to act fairly quickly to get monetary policy back towards a more neutral setting (or even stimulatory), rather than the restrictive territory it's been in for quite some time now."He said he expected mortgage rates to keep falling, which would likely lift confidence in the housing market and help stop the fall in prices.ASB chief economist Nick Tuffley tentatively expected a further 50 basis point cut in the last meeting of the year in November."The outlook appears very data dependent, with a further 50bp not a done deal. The weakness of data through into early next year will influence how long the RBNZ keeps cutting in 50bp moves."'Relief' on way for households, businesses - WillisNicola Willis Photo: RNZ / REECE BAKERFinance Minister Nicola Willis says the OCR cut is welcome news for families and businesses."Lower interest rates will provide much-needed relief for households and businesses, allowing families to keep more of their hard-earned money and increasing the opportunities for businesses to invest and innovate."Willis said New Zealanders have been doing it tough over the last few years "with the economy in recession, high interest rates and sharply rising prices."That is changing as inflation falls towards the target level, interest rates come down and businesses have the confidence to invest and hire again."For homeowners, Willis said a lot of people would be able to switch to a lower interest rate, meaning that would "free up more cash for many".Willis pointed to ANZ's Business Outlook which showed that businesses were feeling more positive."The Mood of the Boardroom echoed this, showing that confidence in the economy has reached its highest level since 2016."Willis said there was still more work to do but the government's "careful and deliberate plan" to rebuild the economy "is working.""We are confident that brighter days are ahead," Willis added.On unemployment figures, Willis said her government inherited an "economy in trouble.""We said that we would put a lid on inflation so that interest rates could drop and growth could revive," adding the government was making good progress on that goal."We are seeing green shoots."

The Powerball jackpot has rolled over again, now reaching $20 million for this Saturday’s draw.In the latest draw, one player from Hamilton secured a $1 million win in the Lotto First Division.The winning ticket was purchased on MyLotto, confirming a substantial payout for the lucky participant.For those checking their tickets, the winning numbers were 10, 1, 3, 38, 32, and 24, with the bonus ball 7 and Powerball number 3.Prize Collection InformationMyLotto offers an automated credit process for prizes up to $1,000, with larger winnings requiring an online prize form.For physical ticket holders, prizes can be claimed in person at Lotto NZ retailers.Powerball players must match all six Lotto numbers, plus the Powerball number, to claim the jackpot.If unclaimed, the jackpot continues to roll over or, if it reaches its maximum, will be awarded through a must-be-won draw.

The Government is considering stricter regulations for building professionals, aiming to enhance accountability and restore public confidence, according to Building and Construction Minister Chris Penk. The proposed changes come in response to ongoing concerns about construction quality and the safety of residential projects nationwide.Minister Penk outlined the Government's reform plans, which focus on tougher licensing and registration requirements and implementing new penalties for poor workmanship. The goal, he said, is to make building faster and more affordable while also protecting consumers.“The Government is taking action to make building easier and more affordable,” Penk said. “To address our housing shortage, we need to rethink how we consent homes and remove barriers to imported building products. But, we must also hold tradespeople accountable when things go wrong.”Key aspects of the proposed reforms include:Raising competency and accountability standards for buildersStrengthening consumer protections in the Building ActEmpowering regulators with enhanced licensing and disciplinary authorityIntroducing new fines for deceptive practices during remote inspections, including up to $50,000 for individuals and $150,000 for businessesPenk emphasised that although most tradespeople are skilled and responsible, a minority have caused significant issues, undermining trust within the industry. He noted that current penalties often fall short of deterring non-compliant behaviors, leading councils to adopt overly cautious practices to avoid costly liabilities.“The trade-off for reducing oversight on low-risk projects, like granny flats, is that we ensure builders are both qualified and accountable,” Penk explained. “This way, we can prevent councils from bearing undue risks when construction issues arise.”The reforms align with recent moves to allow small structures, up to 60 square meters, to be built without a building consent. This is part of the Government’s broader agenda to support housing growth while maintaining high standards of safety and quality.“Lifting the competence of building professionals will also pave the way for insurance-backed opt-outs from consents, giving insurance companies the confidence to back new projects,” Penk added.The proposed changes are intended to supplement the Government’s work on “phoenixing” prevention, where businesses evade their liabilities by shutting down and reopening under different names—a tactic that has plagued the building industry in recent years.As consultations continue, these reforms are poised to help rebuild trust in the building sector, making it easier for Kiwis to invest in homes they can rely on.

Hello Coasties! It seems there’s a bit of good news in the air for the New Zealand housing market.Following five consecutive months of declines, the latest Trade Me Property Price Index shows a bounce-back in property prices this September.It’s the first time since March that prices have ticked upward, with the national average asking price now sitting at $823,550—an increase of 0.6% from August.Several regions led this resurgence, with the West Coast seeing a notable 3.1% month-on-month (MoM) increase, followed by Northland at 2% and Bay of Plenty at 1.9%.Even Auckland, which saw house prices dip below the million-dollar mark in August for the first time in four years, saw an increase, climbing from $986,750 to $996,350 in September.Gavin Lloyd, Trade Me Property’s Customer Director, weighed in on the significance of the rise.“While 0.6 per cent isn’t a big number, it is significant to see positive growth in prices at this point in the year,” he said. “It suggests that while we’ve endured a challenging winter period, there’s renewed optimism in the housing market.”It’s not all sunshine, however.Of the 15 regions monitored by Trade Me Property, four saw a drop in the average asking price.Nelson/Tasman led these decreases, with a decline of 2.3% to $793,850.Taranaki followed closely, dropping 2.2% to $631,550, while Gisborne and Southland also experienced declines of 1.4% and 1.2%, respectively.Christchurch made headlines for different reasons, particularly for one- to two-bedroom properties, which hit a record high of $549,050 in September—up 3.4% from the same time last year.Units in the city also saw a notable increase, rising by 6.1% year-on-year to $471,150.Comparing the larger urban centres, Lloyd highlighted differences between Auckland and Wellington in five-bedroom property prices.Auckland has shown strong growth, with an impressive 7.2% year-on-year increase for larger homes.Wellington, on the other hand, saw a considerable decrease of 17.5% for similar-sized properties.“There’s also a substantial price difference between those larger properties,” Lloyd added. “In Auckland, the average asking price for a five-plus bedroom house is nearly a million dollars more than a similar-sized property in Wellington.”In terms of housing supply, there was a notable 23% increase year-on-year, with a 1% rise from August.Gisborne recorded the most significant increase in available properties, up a whopping 64% compared to last September.Wellington and Otago also saw substantial boosts in supply, rising 44% and 35%, respectively.Demand for properties cooled slightly, with a 2% drop from August.However, compared to last year, interest remains high, with Gisborne, Auckland, and Hawke’s Bay seeing significant year-on-year spikes of 35%, 24%, and 22%, respectively.

It's tough with the global force of social media, especially the happenings thrown at us from those cultural imperialists in the northern hemisphere.We think we're having a Brat Summer even if it's the middle of the New Zealand winter.We turn up to vote on Tuesday 5 November and realise it's not our election.And now, our social feeds and US news sites are full of something called Prime Day. It's a ridiculously good sale with online retailer Amazon where prices are slashed on everything from electronics to pet care products to clothing to anything you can think of really.But many New Zealanders can't capitalise on the sale because it requires a monthly or yearly Prime membership, which 75 percent of US shoppers have as well as about 35 percent of Australian households.As New Zealand does not have one of those massive Amazon warehouses for fast shipping, a full Prime membership isn't really worth it. A full Prime membership gives you access to fast shipping, Amazon's media catalogue of movies and TV shows, and you get to join in Prime Day sales (Kiwis can sign up for only Amazon's streaming platform for about $12 a month.)It's a reminder that New Zealand - for now, anyway - is too small and too far away to get much love from one of the biggest retailers in the world. However, for our local retailers and even New Zealand consumers, that might not be a bad thing.What is Prime Day?Okay. Amazon makes this confusing, as behemoth companies tend to do.Officially, Prime Day is a two-day sale in July that Amazon Prime members look forward to with giddy anticipation. In the weeks and days before, they research deals and write shopping lists.Amazon recently announced a two day sale on 8 and 9 October in the US that it is calling Prime Big Deal Days. American media is full of reporters singling out the best deals with Crest Whitening Kit going from $81 to $39, a Swarovski bracelet going from $193 to $120 and the price of a Sony 65-inch TV dropping from $4055 to $3079.The last Prime Day sale in July was Amazon's biggest ever and generated $23 billion in sales. That's four times New Zealand's military budget.New Zealanders can technically be full Amazon Prime members to take advantage of Prime Day sales, but in a quick survey of Americans living in New Zealand it apparently isn't worth the $24 monthly fee.Why I don't miss AmazonAmazon seemed an absolute necessity to life when I lived in the US up until four years ago. You can order almost anything, even live snails. You're two clicks away from whatever you want turning up on your doorstep in a day or even an hour.It encouraged extreme impulse - or in many cases, drunk - buying. A pen, some pegs, a blender and then purchase. An Amazon employee is then dispatched around one of their giant warehouses, sometimes walking more than 30 kilometres a day to collect all the crap you think you want.Access to Amazon is not always a good thing. Photo: Sean Robbin/UnsplashThe amount of boxes and packaging I accumulated each week was insane. Then, I had to keep watch over my doorstep for "porch pirates" who stalk Amazon's delivery trucks and swoop in to steal packages.I very rarely miss Amazon. I don't end up with tons of tons of junk that I don't really need. There's great deals to be had at retailers such as Briscoes and Farmers. Online shopping might not get to you in hours here, but it's quick enough to keep me happy.Amazon radically changes shopping habits in a short time. It's been dubbed the Amazon Effect where consumers demand speed and convenience with a personal shopping experience.Take the example of my editor's Australian friend who recently bought a ream of plain paper, something else and a bucket (a classic random Amazon order). But he had already ordered a bucket and forgot. He ended up with two bucketsBefore Amazon, which opened its first Australian warehouse in 2017, he would have gone to Bunnings and wouldn't have made the same two-bucket mistake. And if you write a list of what you need, by the time you get to the store you have time to question what you really need.Will New Zealand ever get an Amazon warehouse?It's something that seemed inevitable before Covid, but now, the golden age of online retails appears to be over or its at least one pause, said retail expert Chris Wilkinson, from First Retail Group in Wellington.Amazon is closing warehouses rather than opening them. So are other big online retailers such as Boohoo and ASOS, which are cutting warehouses or perks like free shipping on returns."They've been growing at a great rate of knots but not necessarily in terms of profitability and we've seen some changes," said Wilkinson.The Warehouse tried to mimic Amazon's efficiency and variety of products with its Marketplace website, which allowed other sellers to list items on its website. It was an attempt to get ahead of Amazon's assumed entry into the New Zealand market."It didn't work because it was very complex and costly and [the Warehouse] had to pull back from that," said Wilkinson.

Life Pharmacy Orewa has marked a remarkable 75 years of serving the local area, cementing its position as the longest-standing business on the Hibiscus Coast.Since opening its doors in 1949, the pharmacy has provided unwavering support to Hibiscus Coast residents, earning gratitude and loyalty from generations of families.The team at Life Pharmacy Orewa has expressed heartfelt thanks to the community for their continued support, acknowledging that reaching this milestone would not have been possible without it.The Hibiscus Coast App joins in congratulating Life Pharmacy Orewa on this significant achievement, recognising their enduring commitment to the wellbeing of the local community.

Having recently had shingles myself—and still in recovery—I’m here to share why awareness of this virus is so crucial for our community, especially for those of us over 50.Shingles can be more than just a painful rash; it can lead to severe complications that impact quality of life, especially for older Kiwis and those with weakened immune systems.Shingles is caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus (VZV), the same virus responsible for chickenpox.While most adults may carry this virus, it can reactivate in around one in three people, resulting in painful symptoms.Infectious disease specialist Dr. Hasan Bhally is raising the alarm, especially as our ageing population grows, with an estimated one million Kiwis over 65 by 2028 and potentially 1.5 million by the 2050s.According to Dr. Bhally, awareness of shingles and its potential complications is vital.He explains, “Shingles complications can be extensive and impact long-term health. Awareness is crucial for early diagnosis and treatment.”The primary symptom of shingles is a rash that can wrap around one side of the face, trunk, or body.While the rash itself can be uncomfortable, about 30% of those affected develop postherpetic neuralgia (PHN), a type of nerve pain that can linger for months or even years after the initial outbreak.For some, PHN can cause intense, persistent pain, potentially leading to anxiety and depression.Other potential complications include encephalitis (a brain infection), eye infections known as herpes zoster ophthalmicus, and in rare cases, cardiovascular issues.Dr. Bhally notes that early diagnosis can help reduce the severity of symptoms and prevent further complications.“Recognising the unique pattern of the shingles rash allows for early treatment, which is key,” he says.In New Zealand, the shingles vaccine, Shingrix, is funded for those aged 65 and older, yet access remains limited for people aged 50 to 64, despite the heightened risk in this age group.Brett Marett, medical director at GSK NZ, highlights this concern: “While it’s important that access to funded Shingrix is available for immunocompromised people, people over 50 years are also at an increased risk of developing shingles. We are continuing to work with Pharmac in this space.”With Pharmac recently expanding access to certain high-risk individuals, Marett underscores the need for broader availability, stating, “People over 50 remain at increased risk. Expanding vaccine funding to this age group would help protect many more people.”For those curious about their risk, Dr. Bhally recommends discussing vaccination options with a GP to determine the best course of action.As our understanding of shingles grows, so does the importance of protecting ourselves and others from its potential effects.