Coasties are likely among the many Kiwis searching for Alexandra Vincent Martelli, whose name has been trending on Google Trends, particularly on Waiting Day. But who is this mysterious person, and why the sudden interest?Alexandra Vincent Martelli is a well-known name in the New Zealand real estate industry, being the Founder of Martelli & Co Buyers Agents. Her business specialises in being a buyer's agent in Auckland's eastern suburbs and central city.Born and raised in Auckland, Martelli graduated from Auckland University before spending 11 years abroad. During this time, she honed her skills in real estate consultancy, buyers advocacy, and residential development in London, Sydney, and Hong Kong.The reason behind the sudden interest in Martelli lies in her recent engagement to David Seymour, the leader of the ACT political party in New Zealand. Seymour proposed to Martelli in a romantic beach setting during the summer holidays while in the US. This comes after their relationship became public knowledge in late 2024.Have a News story to share?Contact [email protected]

Some Waiheke residents are worried 'digital nomads' could invade their island paradise under the government's new rules.One advocate said the island was already facing a housing crisis, and wealthy visitors could force locals out of a dwindling supply of rentals."The housing situation on Waiheke is pretty dire, so we have the most upside down income to rent ratio in the country, even worse than Queenstown," Waiheke Community Housing Trust general manager Damian Sycamore said."There's approximately 6000 dwellings on Waiheke, and over 1000 [bed and breakfasts], so that's almost 20 percent."Last week, the government announced new rules for visitors allowing them to work remotely for a foreign employer for up to nine months.So-called digital nomads had been growing in number since 2020, high-wage workers discovering they could mix business and pleasure.Sycamore feared inviting these nomads to Waiheke would be disastrous for the island's fragile housing market."What we do know is that there's approximately 30 to 60 million digital nomads currently in the world," he said."We know they have stacks of cash and get paid big bickies whilst they're travelling internationally, but they will be able to outbid Waiheke's low incomes for a dwindling pool of houses that are available to rent."Waiheke Local Board deputy chairwoman Kylee Matthews said it was a fear shared by many residents."There's a lot of people that are already concerned on our Facebook page, our community notice board, where they just say 'here we go again, long-term residents are going to get pushed out by short-term nomads'," Matthews said."Also a lot of younger families that usually rent on the island, they're already looking elsewhere."CoreLogic senior property economist Kelvin Davidson did not think the new rules would leave much of a mark on New Zealand's overall property market, but he said digital nomads could make bigger waves in high-demand areas, like Waiheke Island."There's always going to be some local impacts. ...Your inner city apartments - it might produce a bit of marginal extra demand for that type of property," he said."There'll be locations as well where there is a bit of marginal extra demand: ...I suspect Waiheke Island would be on that list. You could probably have areas like Queenstown, all of the sort of usual suspects."Many properties on Waiheke Island doubled as bed and breakfasts during peak summer months. For the rest of the year they were medium-term rentals, with locals only having access for about six months at a time.Waiheke Homes real estate firm co-owner Paul Brisbane said that had made renting a challenge for many residents."There are people who are finding it tough to get rental property on Waiheke for that kind of period," he said."They're taking shorter terms because they just can't find anything for longer. So if they've now got a whole new class of visitor who is able to take something for that amount of time, then I guess there is going to be more demand."The Housing Trust's Damian Sycamore was worried an influx of digital nomads could make that model more popular."Island residents and locals, they don't want to just exist in a space for less than a year. They want to build a home," he said."They want to go to those schools. They want to build a place in the community. And a house cannot be [both] a home and a place for short-term rentals."He said it remained to be seen just how much of a difference the new rules made, but it was yet another reason to be worried for Waiheke's future.

New Zealand has the potential to lead in ethical artificial intelligence (AI) governance, according to Dulani Jayasuriya, a senior lecturer at the University of Auckland Business School. In a recent opinion piece, she argues that while major global players like the United States and China compete for AI dominance, New Zealand is well-positioned to take a different approach—one focused on fairness, transparency, and efficiency.Jayasuriya highlights New Zealand’s 2024 AI Bill as a crucial step towards responsible AI development. The bill aims to regulate risks such as bias, misinformation, and job displacement, particularly in industries like healthcare, tourism, and small businesses. She suggests that by establishing strong AI regulations early, New Zealand could play a role similar to its leadership in environmental policy, influencing global standards for ethical AI use.In her analysis, Jayasuriya also discusses the rise of China’s DeepSeek, a Hangzhou-based AI company that has disrupted the market with low-cost, high-performing models. She notes that DeepSeek’s flagship model, DeepSeek-R1, was developed for approximately NZD 10 million—a fraction of the estimated NZD 170 million required to train OpenAI’s GPT-4. Dulani Jayasuriya, senior lecturer, University of Auckland Business School.Because DeepSeek’s models are open-source, they offer opportunities for businesses and researchers worldwide to build upon them.For New Zealand businesses, particularly in agriculture, logistics, and tourism, Jayasuriya sees these affordable AI solutions as an opportunity. AI-driven chatbots, she suggests, could enhance real-time assistance for tourists, while AI-powered automation in farming could improve crop management tailored to local conditions. By leveraging DeepSeek’s innovations alongside homegrown expertise, New Zealand could develop AI tools uniquely suited to its needs.Jayasuriya also addresses concerns about AI’s impact on employment. Citing a 2023 Goldman Sachs report, she notes that up to 300 million jobs could be affected by AI by 2035. In Australia, customer service and administrative roles are already being reduced, while new positions—such as AI ethics officers and data curators—are emerging. She argues that New Zealand’s focus on AI regulation and skills development could help businesses and workers adapt to these changes more effectively.As AI development accelerates, Jayasuriya concludes that the countries investing in strong governance, infrastructure, and ethical frameworks will shape its future. She suggests that by prioritising responsible AI adoption, New Zealand could not only benefit its own economy but also influence global AI standards.Have a News story to share?Contact [email protected]

Your weekend weather at a glance.Coasties, here’s what the next four days have in store:Friday, 7/2Morning clouds followed by afternoon sun. Fairly breezy East to Nor'East winds.High: 25Low: 17Saturday, 8/2Partly cloudy. Fairly breezy East to Nor'East winds.High: 25Low: 17Sunday, 9/2Partly cloudy. Breezy East to Sou'East winds.High: 25Low: 18Monday, 10/2Partly cloudy. Fairly breezy Sou'East winds.High: 25Low: 17Looking for more?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!

Food-loving locals on the Hibiscus Coast have the chance to celebrate their favourite meals, with nominations now open for Iconic Auckland Eats 2025The annual event, now in its fifth year, highlights Auckland’s top 100 eats as voted by the public.Last year, over 1,800 dishes were nominated, showcasing the city’s diverse and vibrant food culture. This year, Aucklanders have until 5 March to submit their favourite meal or snack, along with a short note on why it holds a special place in their hearts.To encourage participation, five lucky nominators will each win $500 in vouchers to spend at one of the selected Iconic Auckland Eats top 100 food businesses.The initiative is organised by Tātaki Auckland Unlimited, in partnership with Restaurant Hub, New Zealand’s largest online restaurant booking network. The campaign aims to support Auckland’s hospitality sector by spotlighting standout eateries, from food trucks and bakeries to fine-dining restaurants.Karen Thompson-Smith, Head of Tourism at Tātaki Auckland Unlimited, says the event has become a much-loved tradition for both locals and visitors.“Nothing brings people together like food – whether it’s an old favourite or a new and exciting dish – and Auckland has some of the best food in the world. Iconic Auckland Eats is the perfect way for locals and visitors alike to spread the word by nominating the dishes they love the most in Tāmaki Makaurau.”The final top 100 list will highlight not only delicious meals but also the unique stories, people, and cultural heritage behind them. Two long-standing favourites—Depot’s Fish Sliders and the Strawberry Lamington from Sugar at Chelsea Bay—have been on the list since the event’s inception in 2020.A panel of judges, including Annie Dundas, Destination Director at Tātaki Auckland Unlimited, and Mark Gregory, co-owner of Restaurant Hub, will help curate the list. A guest judge is yet to be announced.The hospitality industry plays a significant role in New Zealand’s economy, with the restaurant and café sector contributing $7.8 billion in the year ending March 2024. For locals eager to showcase the Hibiscus Coast’s best dishes, this is a chance to help put favourite eateries on the Auckland-wide map. Nominations can be submitted at aucklandnz.com/iconic-eats until 4 pm on 5 March 2025.Have a News story to share?Contact [email protected]

Coasties heading out on the water are urged to check their lifejackets, as over 21,000 units have been recalled due to a potentially faulty inflator mechanism. The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) and Maritime New Zealand are advising boaters to ensure their lifejackets function correctly to avoid safety risks.The affected lifejackets, fitted with a Halkey-Roberts inflator mechanism, include the Hutchwilco Classic 170N Manual Inflatable Lifejacket and Hutchwilco Super Comfort 170N Manual Inflatable Lifejacket, manufactured between June 2021 and May 2022.MBIE spokesperson Ian Caplin emphasised the importance of checking for faults before heading out.“Our Product Safety team know the summer period means plenty of New Zealanders are out on the water or heading to the beach. We want to make sure this fault doesn’t cause any preventable accidents,” said Caplin. This voluntary recall is a precautionary measure to prevent potential failures where the lifejacket may not inflate as expected. Notices have been issued on the Product Safety website, and those who own these models are encouraged to act promptly.Maritime New Zealand spokesperson Matt Wood stressed the importance of regularly inspecting all safety gear, not just the affected models.“Just like all safety equipment, lifejackets have a lifespan and can become worn out over time,” said Wood. “Everyone needs to ensure their lifejackets will work if needed. Some simple tests include checking for any visible damage, looking for tears, cuts or punctures. It’s also important to check that the webbing, clips and zips are all in good working order.”Those with an affected lifejacket are advised to visit Hutchwilco’s website to complete a recall form. The company offers either a replacement inflator mechanism or a refund.Boaters are also encouraged to familiarise themselves with lifejacket maintenance and safety checks by visiting the Maritime New Zealand website. Taking a few moments to inspect equipment before heading out could be lifesaving.Have a News story to share?Contact [email protected]

An investigation is ongoing following a stabbing incident in Birkenhead on Tuesday afternoon, leaving a man in hospital with multiple wounds.Police confirmed the attack took place outside an address on Birkenhead Avenue at approximately 2 pm. North Shore Area Commander Inspector Stefan Sagar said the victim underwent surgery at Auckland City Hospital and remains in a serious but stable condition.“The victim is now in a serious but stable condition in hospital, and we will be looking to speak with him in the coming days as we continue our enquiries,” said Inspector Sagar.Authorities are maintaining a visible presence in the area as part of their investigation. Officers will continue canvassing the neighbourhood today, seeking further details from the community.“From what we have established so far in our enquiries, we do not believe this is a random incident,” Inspector Sagar stated.Police are also investigating a vehicle seen leaving the area around the time of the incident.However, no further details about the vehicle are available at this stage.Community support has played a key role in the investigation, with residents providing valuable information.“We have had good support from the neighbourhood, and this information is assisting us in progressing the investigation,” Inspector Sagar said.“I know when these events take place in our communities that this can be unsettling, but we believe it is an isolated event and Police are continuing to work hard to identify and hold this offender to account.”Police are appealing for further assistance from the public. Anyone with information can contact Police online or by calling 105, quoting reference number 250204/5489. Anonymous tips can also be provided through Crime Stoppers at 0800 555 111.Have a News story to share?Contact [email protected]

As Waitangi Day approaches, Northland Police are reminding motorists to prioritise safety on the roads.In preparation for Thursday, 6 February, police have been actively engaging with the community to ensure drivers remain vigilant and responsible.Northland Road Policing Manager, Inspector Anne-Marie Fitchett, has emphasised that drivers can expect to encounter patrols at any time, as part of the efforts to deter risky behaviour."There are no excuses for any unsafe behaviours on our roads. We want everyone to enjoy the Waitangi celebrations while considering their own safety—and that of others," she said. "Speeding won’t be tolerated, and any excess speeds will be ticketed as required."Inspector Fitchett added that drivers should also be prepared for random impairment tests during the period."The community can expect to be stopped and tested for impairment at any time. Nobody wants to share the road with someone who is unable to focus clearly."In addition to increased enforcement, several road closures are already in place in the area, including:Te Karuwha Parade, corner of Puketona Road, SH11 to Tau Henare DriveTe Kemara Road, former of Puketona Road, SH11 to Te Karuwha ParadeTau Henare Drive, intersection of Baylys Road and Haruru Falls RoadHaruru Falls Road, off Puketona Road, SH11Motorists are also being reminded to be considerate of parking arrangements and allow extra time for possible roadworks or detours along their route."We simply want everyone to drive with care, stay patient in the event there are roadworks or detours along your journey, and keep alert on our roads," said Fitchett.For more information on getting to Waitangi and parking details, visit the FNDC website.Have a News story to share?Contact [email protected]

Unemployment is expected to reach a four-year high in official numbers confirming the recession has caught up with the jobs market and also slowed wage growth.Consensus economist forecasts are for the unemployment rate to rise to 5.1 percent in the three months ended December from 4.8 percent in the previous quarter.ANZ economist Henry Russell said the labour market was a lagging indicator of the economy."While the New Zealand economy appears to have bottomed out and is now recovering, the labour market is still playing catch-up to the past slowdown in activity."The second half of last year saw loss of many hundreds of jobs in government restructuring and industrial layoffs, with estimates the economy has shed as many as 30,000 jobs in the past year, while the number of jobs advertised has been more than 20 percent lower than a year ago.Given upOne factor that has likely limited a bigger rise in unemployment has been people giving up looking for work."Much of the current cycle in employment has been driven by young people, who were drawn into the workforce in 2021-22 when the labour market was tight and migrant workers weren't available," Westpac senior economist Michael Gordon said."As those conditions have reversed, many of them are ending up back at school rather than continuing to look for work. The result is that the official unemployment rate has risen at a slower pace than many of us (including the RBNZ) were expecting."He said that along with slower growth in the size of the workforce and lower immigration would help put a cap on unemployment, which had previously been forecast to reach at least 5.5 percent.However, recovery in the jobs market is expected to be slow until lower interest rates filter through to better household spending, and increased business activity and sales, although the mood has improved according to Westpac McDermott-Miller's latest survey.Slow wages to content RBNZMeanwhile, a weaker labour market with more people chasing fewer jobs has put the brakes on the rise in wages.During the pandemic a desperate need for workers fuelled strong wage growth, which, by some measures, was more than 7 percent annually.ASB senior economist Mark Smith said all that had changed."Employees are just trying to hang on to their jobs and the security of having a job is trumping the pay increases they would be getting and lower inflation means consumers are asking for less compensation."The consensus is for annual wage growth of around 3 percent.Smith said that should satisfy the Reserve Bank's desire to see lower wages as a driver of slower domestic inflation, thus justifying a further 50 basis point cut to the official cash rate to 3.75 percent on 19 February.

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!St. Pierre’s SushiPosition: Sushi Staff MemeberLocation: SilverdaleNo experience required; hospitality/customer service experience preferredMust have flexible availability, including peak lunch hours and weekendsView full listing & applySilverdale United Rugby ClubPosition: Cook / Chef / Kitchen ManagerLocation: Silverdale (On-Site)Part-time role (Thu/Fri evenings, Sat 12:30–7:00 PM in season).Manage the kitchen from menu to service, feeding members and supporters.View full listing & applyRyman HealthcarePosition: CaregiverLocation: OrewaSupport and engage with dementia care residents in a fulfilling roleEnjoy ongoing training, additional leave, and weekend pay allowancesView full listing & applyCareer Tip of the weekTailor your CV and cover letter for each role by highlighting the most relevant skills and achievements. A personalised approach shows employers you’re genuinely interested and increases your chances of landing an interview.Looking for more opportunities? Browse all local job listings on our jobs page.That’s it for this week’s local job roundup. 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.

US President Donald Trump has introduced 25 percent tariffs on Mexico and Canada, and a 10 percent tariff on China - claiming they're meant to stop drugs and undocumented immigrants.Sense Partners economist John Ballingall told Morning Report's Corin Dann the move could spark a potential retaliatory trade war between the nations, spelling bad news for New Zealand exports."The larger concern for New Zealand is that Trump's actions here lead to retaliation, which we're already seeing from Canada, Mexico and China, and that that blows up into a full-blown trade war."When that happens, you'll see global GDP growth go down, and that means lower demand for all of the things that New Zealand exports."He acknowledged there are possible upsides in the short term.As dairy products going into Canada become more expensive.This could potentially open up new opportunities for New Zealand."I don't want to paint this as something which is great for New Zealand. The medium-term and longer-term consequences are pretty worrying."Especially, he said, if the scope of Trump's tariff tactics widens to include Europe."Europe's already talking about how it might retaliate. We know the EU does this pretty effectively. It's got a list of products that it would counter-punch with."So again, it's not hard to see this skill heading relatively quickly into something much more concerning to New Zealand."But while the actions of the US President have incensed those who believe the measures violate the rules-based system of fair trade, New Zealand is unlikely is join the choir."I think, to date, we've been very measured in terms of any political statements around President Trump's actions."I think that is probably going to be the way that we continue to go. There isn't a huge amount to be gained by jumping up and down and criticizing the US."Now that may sound like we're being a bit weak, but I think we have to be pragmatic. New Zealand making a song and dance isn't going to change President Trump's mind about tariffs, so perhaps we're better off taking the diplomatic route, trying to talk to people in this administration, position New Zealand as a partner."Trump should be told 'allies are not lackeys'But, Otago University international relations professor Robert Patman says New Zealand and other liberal democracies should make their opposition to the tariffs loud and clear."We always see ourselves as a good international citizen. Well, we actually need to walk the talk," he said."And that means to say we need to make it quite clear, along with Australia and other liberal democracies that Mr Trump's attempts to single out traditional allies of the United States for this sort of top-down pressure is unacceptable. Allies are not lackeys," he said.Patman said Trump's "America First" approach to alliances and international institutions implies that other parties involved in the alliances took second place."I do think it is important that the United States is left under no illusions that everyone is going to quake in their boots and fold in front of them under Mr Trump."Noting that New Zealand did have an ongoing trade dispute with Canada over dairy quotas under the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), he said the relationship was strong.US tariffs won't affect profits says Fisher & PaykelAlthough Fisher & Paykel Healthcare said US tariffs will increase the cost of the goods it makes in Mexico that isn't expected to have a material impact on this year's net profit.The company manufactures about 45 percent of its products in Mexico and 55 percent in New Zealand, said managing director Lewis Gradon.About 60 percent of its products sold in the US are made in Mexico, with US-based customers generating about 43 percent of its first-half-year revenue.Gradon said they're taking a long-term view, working with global suppliers and US customers to mitigate the impact of the US tariffs.'In a wait and see period'Executive director at ExportNZ, Joshua Tan, said while the change brings possible risks and opportunities, right now exporters are "in a wait and see period given that the Trump administration hasn't actually announced anything on New Zealand.""There could be an opportunity for New Zealand to replace Canadian, Mexican, and Chinese goods in the US market and for our products to replace US products in those markets."The great thing is New Zealand has free trade agreements with all three.""We're pretty confident our exporters can adjust to global changes... but it's pretty hard to break down at this point."

Households across the country continue to feel the pressure of rising living costs, with new figures from Stats NZ showing a 3.0 percent increase in the 12 months to December 2024.This follows a 3.8 percent rise in the September 2024 quarter, highlighting persistent financial strain on families.The Household Living-Costs Price Indexes (HLPIs), which measure inflation's impact on different household groups, indicate that key contributors to the increase include insurance, property rates, and rent.Meanwhile, consumer inflation, measured by the Consumer Price Index (CPI), rose 2.2 percent in the same period."For many households, interest payments on mortgages remain high and continue to contribute significantly to living costs," said Stats NZ prices and deflators spokesperson Nicola Growden.Interest payments have surged 104 percent since December 2021.However, the pace of increase has slowed, with a 7.1 percent rise in the past year.Other expenses, such as building new homes, climbed 2.0 percent.Superannuitants on the Hibiscus Coast may feel the strain more acutely, with their living costs up 3.6 percent.Many in this group own their homes but face rising insurance and property rates, which increased 15.8 percent and 12.4 percent, respectively.Beneficiary households saw a 3.3 percent cost increase, largely due to rent rising 4.5 percent and property rates increasing 12.1 percent.Rent remains a significant portion of their expenses, accounting for 29 percent of their household budgets.For the lowest-spending households, living costs rose 3.9 percent, the highest increase across all groups.Meanwhile, the highest-spending households saw the lowest cost rise at 2.7 percent, mainly due to interest payments, insurance, and property rates.Though inflation has cooled compared to previous years, ongoing increases in core expenses continue to challenge Coasties, particularly those on fixed incomes or renting.Have a News story to share?Contact [email protected]

New Zealand’s property market kicked off 2025 with a surge in new listings, reaching levels not seen in nearly a decade, according to realestate.co.nz. After a record-low December, January saw nearly 9,000 new listings, marking a 21.2% increase year-on-year.The influx of properties is providing buyers with more choice while increasing competition among sellers. Stock levels are also at their highest January levels since 2015, creating a market environment with relative price stability.Stock Levels at a 10-Year HighStock levels nationwide climbed 18.9% compared to January 2024, with all 19 regions experiencing an increase. Auckland led the surge, recording 11,465 properties available for sale—the highest January level since 2012.“We haven’t seen this level of housing stock in Auckland for more than a decade,” said Sarah Wood, CEO of realestate.co.nz. “There could be a window of opportunity for those looking for property in the region.”The increase in stock levels indicates a more balanced market, with buyers benefiting from greater selection while sellers navigate a more competitive environment.Prices Hold Steady Despite Market ShiftsWhile new listings and stock levels surged, property prices remained relatively stable. The national average asking price in January was $868,969, a slight 1.3% decline from the previous year.Regional trends varied, with Coromandel experiencing the largest drop, down 20.3% year-on-year to $1,004,312. Conversely, the West Coast saw a 6.3% price increase, reaching $505,151. Four regions—Auckland, Hawke’s Bay, Nelson & Bays, and Southland—saw prices rise both month-on-month and year-on-year.Opportunities in a Changing MarketWith interest rates easing and a high volume of properties available, market conditions are providing both buyers and sellers with new opportunities.“Lots of choice, combined with relative price stability, offers certainty for both buyers and sellers,” said Wood. “And as interest rates decline, the market may become more appealing for those on the sidelines.”Despite the strong start to the year, high stock levels mean a rapid rebound in prices is unlikely. However, Wood noted that real estate markets are cyclical, and shifts are expected over time.Have a News story to share?Contact [email protected]

Whangaparāoa locals will notice continued progress on the Penlink project, with significant road and bridge construction developments. The project team has completed the majority of bulk earthworks between the Wēiti River and Whangaparāoa Road, marking an important step forward in the region's transport infrastructure.Since mid-2024, work has focused on relocating and installing underground services to support the next construction phase. These installations are necessary as the team moves forward with building the main alignment for the future Whangaparāoa intersection.A major traffic change is set for March, with a long-term temporary closure planned for the Cedar Terrace intersection. The closure is expected to last at least 12 months, requiring all Cedar Terrace traffic to detour via Scott and Norfolk Roads. Temporary steel roadside safety barriers will also be installed along Whangaparāoa Road near the work site to create a safe working space while maintaining two lanes of traffic.Wēiti River Channel Reopens Following Concrete PourConstruction crews recently completed a large concrete pour for the Pier 4 piles, allowing the reopening of the Wēiti River channel. While vessels can now navigate past the worksite, restrictions remain in place. Boaters travelling upstream must pass through a controlled navigable gap between the eastern and western sections of the temporary platform.For safety reasons, the channel will be intermittently closed during construction hours when heavy loads are being lifted over the navigable gap. During these periods, vessels must follow instructions from the project team, who can be contacted via VHF CH73 or 0800 PENLINK. Safety vessels and hand signals will be used to manage movement and ensure safe passage.As construction progresses, locals and road users are encouraged to stay updated on detours and roadworks. The Penlink team remains committed to maintaining safety while advancing this critical transport project.Have a News story to share?Contact [email protected]

The New Zealand government has launched a Public Service Artificial Intelligence (AI) Framework, which will impact public services nationwide, including those on the Hibiscus Coast.Government Chief Digital Officer Paul James announced the framework, stating it will support leaders, decision-makers, practitioners, and influencers in agencies to adopt AI safely and securely for better public service delivery outcomes.According to Mr. James, "Harnessing AI effectively could significantly improve customer experience and boost efficiency and productivity." The government aims to enable AI innovation in public services to create value for New Zealanders while maintaining trust and confidence in the Public Service.The framework applies to all forms of AI used in New Zealand public services. A Public Service AI work programme, led by the Government Chief Digital Officer, is implementing the framework's vision to adopt AI responsibly and modernise public services.The work programme includes initiatives such as building AI knowledge and skills in the Public Service, surveying key public service agencies on their use of AI, and publishing insights and tools.Have a News story to share?Contact [email protected]

Welcome to The Week That Was—your go-to recap of the most important news, stories, and updates for the Hibiscus Coast community.Sums needed for retirement ease slightlyRead more Cozy 360 Car Seat Recall IssuedRead moreRubbish Truck Fires Prompt Safety WarningsRead moreRelentless Focus on Literacy and NumeracyRead moreLocal wins boat in Coastguard LotteryRead moreThe Week That Was. Stay ahead of the curve with daily local news updates, tailored for users on-the-go.Download the Hibiscus Coast App today and stay informed anywhere, anytime!Have a News story to share?Contact [email protected]

Coasties can now enjoy a smoother ride on state highways, thanks to the Government's efforts to tackle potholes. Since July last year, around 98 per cent of potholes on state highways have been repaired within 24 hours of identification.Transport Minister Chris Bishop says the Government's commitment to getting New Zealand's roads back on track is delivering strong results."Increasing productivity to help rebuild our economy is a key priority for our Government, and boosting pothole repairs and prevention will deliver a safe and efficient state highway network that will support this growth."To address the issue, the Government established a $3.9 billion Pothole Prevention Activity Class over three years. This funding is ring-fenced for resealing, rehabilitation, and drainage maintenance works. The NZ Transport Agency (NZTA) is delivering a significant programme of works, including a record increase in road rehabilitation.The results show that NZTA has delivered on the Government's 24-hour pothole repair targets each month since they were introduced. The data reveals:July 2024: 7,114 potholes repaired, with 95% repaired within 24 hoursAugust 2024: 6,303 potholes repaired, with 98% repaired within 24 hoursSeptember 2024: 5,030 potholes repaired, with 98% repaired within 24 hoursOctober 2024: 4,809 potholes repaired, with 98% repaired within 24 hoursNovember 2024: 3,200 potholes repaired, with 99% repaired within 24 hoursDecember 2024: 1,697 potholes repaired, with 98% repaired within 24 hoursIf you spot a pothole on the state highway network, report it immediately by calling 0800 4 HIGHWAYS.Have a News story to share?Contact [email protected]

Reminder: Auckland Transport (AT) is rolling out significant changes to its fare structure and zone system starting 2 February, marking the most extensive update since 2016.The changes aim to simplify travel for passengers across buses, trains, and ferries while adjusting fares to reflect rising operational costs.The new system reduces the number of fare zones from 14 to nine, consolidating several areas.For example, the East Coast/South Rodney zone now combines the Helensville, Huapai, Hibiscus Coast, and Upper North Shore zones.These adjustments result in cost savings for some passengers, particularly those travelling longer distances.From 2 February, an adult travelling from the Hibiscus Coast to Albany will pay $2.80 per journey, down from $4.65.Similarly, passengers commuting from the Hibiscus Coast to Auckland city will see their fare drop from $7.40 to $6.25 per trip.While some fares are decreasing, Auckland Transport’s annual fare review will bring modest increases to other fares.Bus and train journeys will rise by 15 to 25 cents, and ferry fares will increase by 20 cents to $1.40, depending on the distance travelled.AT’s Director of Public Transport and Active Modes, Stacey van der Putten, explained the rationale behind the adjustments.“We know any increases add to people's cost of living and so these are carefully considered,” Ms Van der Putten said.“However, the cost of running, maintaining, and investing in Auckland’s public transport network is also increasing, and we need to keep up with this.”She noted that the $50 seven-day fare cap for HOP card users remains unchanged, benefiting approximately 25,000 weekly passengers.This cap provides some relief for frequent bus, train, and ferry users.Additionally, off-peak discounts will be discontinued, as they have not achieved the intended impact of managing peak-time capacity.Auckland Transport Director of Public Transport and Active Modes, Stacey van der PuttenFerry fares will also be adjusted independently from buses and trains to account for their operational costs.AT says these structural changes aim to make fares simpler and fairer while encouraging public transport use.Ms Van der Putten highlighted the long-term goal of aligning Auckland’s public transport systems with global best practices.“These structural changes themselves, when applied as a whole, are revenue neutral,” she said.“Our key driver for these changes is to bring the most value to people who use our services.”Locals are encouraged to review the new fare zones and pricing changes before they take effect on 2 February.Have a News story to share?Contact [email protected]

There is growing speculation over whether Wayne Brown's own deputy and political ally is set to challenge him for Auckland's top job.Desley Simpson, who previously stood under the right-leaning Communities and Residents (C&R) party in local body elections, has served as deputy to Mayor Wayne Brown since his election in the 2022 elections.The high profile councillor is married to businessman and former National Party president Peter Goodfellow.Simpson took on a more visible role as the face of Auckland Council in the wake of the Auckland Anniversary Floods when Brown was criticised for not handling the emergency well and for his combative attitude toward media at the time.There has been speculation in political circles over Simpson's future in recent months.However, Simpson told RNZ on Thursday afternoon she had "not yet made a decision about what I intend to to this year".Sources familiar with the situation, who did not want to be named, told RNZ in December that Simpson was no longer a member of C&R and that it was expected she would launch a mayoral bid.In December a domain name, "DesleyforMayor.co.nz'' was registered by Andrew Simpson, her son by her first marriage to Coromandel MP and Senior National Party Whip, Scott Simpson.When asked whether Simpson was still an active member and would be a C&R candidate this election, President David Hay said he did not want to comment until he had spoken to Simpson.He said there had been no discussions between C&R and Simpson about her joining the mayoral race but "the rumour was she was running''.Hay said he had tried to contact Simpson in the past few days but she was not answering.RNZ was told on Wednesday Simpson was overseas and would be back at work next week.In a bizarre turn of events, the domain name 'desleyformayor.nz' was registered by Jordan Williams last week.Jordan Williams is a right-wing lobbyist and political campaigner, known for his involvement in the Taxpayers' Union.In a statement Williams said when he discovered the domain name was available he registered it.Speaking to RNZ Williams said he was not involved in Simpson's campaign and had done it as a joke.In an email to Ratepayers' Union members, he said they discovered Simpson's son only registered "DesleyForMayor.co.nz" and forgot "DesleyForMayor.nz".He said they would give the domain to Simpson if she wanted it.Wayne Brown has not officially declared he is standing for mayor again, saying he would make an announcement early this year, but is widely expected to stand.He did not want to comment "at this time", a spokesperson for his office said.Simpson has been contacted for comment.