Coasties are invited to celebrate the arrival of 2025 with SkyCity Auckland’s iconic fireworks display. The annual event, featuring fireworks launched from the Sky Tower, promises to be a spectacular experience whether viewed from a local peak, the beach, or through the livestream.This year, the celebration has been elevated with a synchronised laser light and animation show, complemented by stunning visuals projected onto the Harbour Bridge. To enhance the experience, locals can tune in to www.morefm.co.nz to enjoy a specially curated soundtrack accompanying the light show.SkyCity Chief Operating Officer Callum Mallett expressed excitement about the event, saying: “The Sky Tower fireworks are an iconic part of celebrating the new year in New Zealand and across the globe, bringing communities together to reflect on the year gone by and look ahead to the future.”He added, “We’ve worked hard to make this year’s event even more spectacular, with a synchronised fireworks and laser light show that promises to be one of our best yet - it’s a true celebration for Auckland and Aotearoa.”The highlight of the night will be the five-minute fireworks display, billed as the highest in the Southern Hemisphere. Beginning with a dramatic 10-second countdown projected on the base of the Sky Tower, the display will feature over 500 kilograms of pyrotechnics launched from three strategic locations between levels 55 and 64 of the tower, standing 200–240 metres above the ground.Adding to the visual feast, a seven-minute laser light show will pay tribute to Aotearoa’s diverse communities and landmarks. With displays every half hour starting at 9 pm, highlights will include imagery of a Formula One racing car, tributes to local sports heroes, and nods to New Zealand’s Bird of the Year and iconic landscapes.Months of preparation have gone into the event, with over 350 hours dedicated to installing 14 kilometres of electrical cabling and wiring. For those unable to attend in person, the event will be livestreamed on the 1News YouTube channel, ensuring everyone across New Zealand can share in the celebration.Happy New Year Coasties!Have a story to share?Contact [email protected]

Summer's here, and it's the perfect time to unwind and catch up on some of the top entertainment from 2024.Whether you're a music lover, a TV binge-watcher, a movie buff, or an avid reader, we've got you covered.Top Streamed Songs of 2024Spotify's top 10 streamed songs of 2024 are in, and here's what's been making waves:1. Sabrina Carpenter - Espresso2. Billie Eilish - Birds Of A Feather3. Benson Boone - Beautiful Things4. Anne-Marie - Friends5. FloyyMenor - Gata Only6. Lady Gaga - Die With A Smile7. Jimin - Who8. Hozier - Too Sweet9. Sabrina Carpenter - Please Please Please10. Ariana Grande - We Can't Be Friends (wait for your love)Confession time: I've only listened to four of these tracks so far. How about you - have you discovered any new favourite artists or songs?Top TV Series of 2024Our team at the Hibiscus Coast App has curated a list of the top 10 TV series of 2024. Here's what made our cut:1. The Day of the Jackal2. The Gentlemen3. The Penguin4. Clarkson’s Farm5. Lioness6. The Diplomat7. Mayor of Kingstown8. The Old Man9. Griselda10. House of the DragonYellowstone fans might notice that it didn't make our list - unfortunately, the season 5b episodes just didn't quite live up to expectations.Top Grossing Movies of 2024BoxOfficeMojo.com reported these blockbusters leading ticket sales this year:1. Inside Out 22. Deadpool & Wolverine3. Despicable Me 44. Moana 25. Dune: Part Two6. Wicked7. Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire8. Kung Fu Panda 49. Venom: The Last Dance10. Beetlejuice BeetlejuiceLooks like there are plenty of great movies to catch up on over summer!Top Selling Books of 2024Circana.com’s bestseller list reflects a mix of gripping fiction and practical reads:1. The Women by Kristin Hannah2. A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J Maas3. Dog Man: the Scarlet Shedder by Div Pilkey4. The Housemaid by Freida McFadden5. It Ends with Us by Colleen Hoover6. Atomic Habits by James Clear7. Iron Flame by Rebecca Yarros8. Forth Wing by Rebecca Yarros9. A Court of Mist and Fury by Sarah J Maas10. It Starts with Us by Colleen HooverWhether you're reading solo or sharing with friends and family, there's something for everyone here.Happy New Year!Have a story to share?Contact [email protected]

Here is the full list of all the New Year Honours recipients.To be Dames Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit:Julie Clare Chapman - For services to children and the communityNea Ingrid Collins, MNZM - For services to Māori, business and health governanceBogyung Ko (Lydia Ko), MNZM - For services to golfGolf star Lydia Ko, 27, is believed to have become the youngest-ever Dame in the modern Commonwealth, capping an extraordinary year.To be Knights Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit:John Allan Gallagher, CNZM, KStJ - For services to business, education, philanthropy and the communityEdward Colin Manson, CNZM - For services to philanthropy, the community and businessPeter Robert Skelton, CNZM - For services to environmental lawTo be Companions of the New Zealand Order of Merit:Graeme Hilton Blick - For services to geodesyIan Douglas Foster - For services to rugbyEsther Frances Fung, ONZM - For services to the Chinese communityFrederick John Graham, ONZM - For services to Māori artJohn Bernard Hart, ONZM - For services to sports governanceJillian Jeanette Hooks - For services to accountancy and educationKai-Shek Luey, QSM - For services to the Chinese communityHelen Linda Pilmore - For services to nephrology and transplantation servicesSuzanne Lena Prentice, OBE - For services to music and the communityRobin Scholes, OBE - For services to the screen industryHarjinder Singh - For services to food scienceAlan Richard Baillie Smythe - For services to the community and philanthropyWilliam Murray Thomson - For services to oral healthKennie Tsui - For services to the environment and governanceKeith Sharman Turner - For services to the electricity industryFormer All Blacks coach Ian Foster, who guided New Zealand to a runners-up finish at the 2023 World Cup, has been recognised in the New Year's Honours.To be an Honorary Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit:Laurie Ann Hilsgen - For services to family carersTo be Officers of the New Zealand Order of Merit:Denise Katherine Astill - For services to the prevention of foetal anticonvulsant syndromesCarlos Edward James Bagrie - For services to the food and rural industriesMajor General John Raymond Boswell, DSD, (Rtd.) - For services to the New Zealand Defence ForceRobert James William Campbell - For services to farming and governanceMarguerite Diane Christophers - For services to Para sportsPeter John Cleave - For services to Māori language educationTrisia Angela Farrelly - For services to ecologyCatherine Mary Ferguson - For services to otolaryngologyHeke-Turoa Ropine Huata - For services to Māori and educationAlbert Puhirake Ihaka - For services to Māori and governanceSudesh Kumar Jhunjhnuwala - For services to the hospitality industry and philanthropyPrudence Elizabeth Lamerton - For services to nuclear medicineNadia Rui-Chi Lim - For services to the food industryProfessor Cyril Wayne McIlwraith - For services to veterinary medicine and the equine industryMatthew Christian Metcalfe - For services to the film industryLee Wei-Hahn Murray - For services to literature, particularly speculative literatureOliver Michael Newland - For services to real estate and the communityChristine Rewa Panapa, MNZM - For services to MāoriTe Taku Parai - For services to Māori, governance and the communityRear Admiral David Colin Proctor, RNZN (Rtd.) - For services to the New Zealand Defence ForceTe Tuhi Robust - For services to Māori and educationAnthony John Shaw - For services to people with intellectual disabilities and the communityMargot Alison Skinner - For services to physiotherapyMervyn John Solly - For services to the transport industry and businessDebra Mary Delores Sorensen - For services to Pacific healthKate Elizabeth Sylvester - For services to the fashion industryIain Clark Taylor - For services to educationMurray William Tilyard - For services to healthSamuel Laurence Whitelock - For services to rugby and the communityBryce Derek Wilkinson - For services to economicsTo be an Honorary Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit:Clara Elisabeth Hutchinson-de Ranitz - For services to midwiferyTo be Members of the New Zealand Order of Merit:Peter Wallace Allen - For services to disabled peopleDale Cameron Bailey - For services to educationPaula Val Baker - For services to health governance and the communityJudith Anne Bell - For services to music educationRichard Marshall Lovelace Bull - For services to conservation and the communityPaul Francis Burns - For services to Search and Rescue and Fire and Emergency New ZealandMichael John Dyer Camm - For services to wildlife conservationSusan Jayne Clement - For services to educationRoss Anthony Cocker, JP - For services to Search and Rescue and the communityKaren Ann Colgan - For services to wildlife conservation and educationLinda Ann Cooper, JP - For services to the communityMaria Carmela Dalli - For services to educationPriyani Therese de Silva-Currie - For services to multicultural communities, netball and civil engineeringMakarena Diana Dudley - For services to people with dementia, particularly MāoriRoss James Craufurd Dunlop, JP - For services to local governmentIosefo Fa'afiu - For services to mental health, youth and the Pacific communityAnne Maria Fitisemanu - For services to businessJulian Richmond Fitter - For services to conservationBronwyn Joy Groot - For services to fraud prevention awarenessNoel Graham Harris - For services to the thoroughbred racing industryRawinia Ruth Higgins - For services to Māori language, education and governanceDavid Warwick Hodder - For services to outdoor recreation and conservationIngrid Louise Maria Huygens - For services to education and MāoriLeonard George Frederick Irvine - For services to woodcraft and educationMarian Elizabeth Johnson - For services to technology and businessShelley Aroha Katae - For services to Māori and Pacific communitiesDavid John Kent - For services to the deaf and hard of hearing communityDinesh Kumar Khadka, JP - For services to the Nepalese communityTania Phillippa Kingi - For services to Māori and people with disabilitiesMalcolm Erskine Legget (Deceased. His Majesty's approval of this award took effect on 31 October 2024, prior to the date of death.) - For services to cardiologyNicola Maree Ataria MacDonald - For services to the environmentDeborah Claire Mackenzie - For services to victims of domestic violenceCedric Paul Malpass - For services to healthLachlan John Marshall - For services to water poloAdele Marie Mason - For services to New Zealand-Asia relationsDuncan Paul Matthews - For services to rainbow communitiesJohn Leslie McKoy - For services to fisheries science and environment managementRoss John McQueen - For services to the communityAsad Mohsin - For services to the Muslim community and educationJanice Molloy - For services to wildlife conservationSheryll Ann Ofner - For services to educationLouise Claire Parr-Brownlie - For services to neuroscienceDaniel Oshana Pato - For services to the hairdressing industryKirsten Pauline Eddy Patterson - For services to governance and womenJohn Kenneth Peters - For services to governance and palliative careIan Martyn Pickard - For services to Fire and Emergency New ZealandBillie-Jean Potaka Ayton - For services to education and MāoriTania Mateohorere-Carole Pouwhare - For services to Māori and Pacific communities, and the environmentSarah Jane McDonald Rae - For services to choral musicIan Dugald Reid - For services to musical theatreAlan Kenneth Richards - For services to the New Zealand Police and educationNorefjell Jacquiline Marama Tanga Royal, JP - For services to Māori and governanceHilary Dawn Sangster - For services to governanceRachel Simon-Kumar - For services to women's studies, health research and to ethnic communitiesRoy Martin Sloan - For services to conservation and game huntingHilary Anne Smith - For services to linguistics and the communityHelen Julia Snell - For services to nursing and diabetes careSharon Carol Stevens-Cottle - For services to dance and theatreMichael Leslie Burton Styles - For services to people with dyslexia and educationLinda Naumai Te Aho - For services to Māori and legal educationGary Raymond Trail - For services to martial arts, particularly Jiu JitsuKeith Winton Trembath - For services to the community, agriculture and educationKateryna Turska - For services to the Ukrainian communityAnita Gay Varga - For services to women and the construction industryMelissa Amy Vining - For services to charitable fundraising and the communityBelinda Henderson Walker - For services to the communityTo be Companions of the King's Service Order:Rūpene Paul Amato - For services to survivors of abuse in careJocelyn Anne Armstrong - For services to interfaith communitiesBarry Joseph de Geest - For services to disabled peopleJames William Goodwin - For services to survivors of abuse in careTristram Richard Ingham, ONZM - For services to survivors of abuse in careLeoni Frances McInroe - For services to survivors of abuse in carePaora Crawford Moyle - For services to survivors of abuse in careMoeapulu Frances Eileen Tagaloa - For services to survivors of abuse in careKeith Vernon Wiffin - For services to survivors of abuse in careGary Michael Williams, MNZM - For services to survivors of abuse in carePaul Andrew Zentveld - For services to survivors of abuse in careThe King's Service MedalAlister David Argyle - For services to the communityVictoria Elizabeth Barnard - For services to the RNZSPCACynthia Jane Brooks - For services to local government and historical researchMichael Russell Buick - For services to the performing arts, particularly musical theatreColin Terence Campbell - For services to horse racing and governanceIan Peter Carter - For services to Fire and Emergency New Zealand and the communityLeslie Edward Clarke - For services to the New Zealand Police and the communityKathleen Patricia Coster - For services to survivors of abuse in careShannel Peter Courtney - For services to conservation and choral musicSandra Lois May Curd, JP - For services to the communitySally Elizabeth Davies - For services to hockey and nursingVaine Puapii Elia - For services to the Cook Islands communityRouruina Emile-Brown - For services to the Cook Islands communityPatricia Mary Anne Eyles, JP - For services to the communityHans-Josef Erwin Freller - For services to survivors of abuse in careNeta Bernadette Gilbert (Neta Kerepeti) - For services to survivors of abuse in careMarie Eleanor Gilpin - For services to the communityThomas Michael Gray - For services to local government and the communityBryan Robert Guy - For services to the communityPeter Colin Hensman - For services to cricket and the communityToni Lee James Jarvis - For services to survivors of abuse in careJeremy Wiremu Alexander Johnson - For services to the Anglican Church and the LGBTQI+ communityHans Allen Key - For services to health and safety and Pacific communitiesPaul Hendrick Lampe - For services to youthMichael Joseph Ledingham - For services to survivors of abuse in carePeter Fala Aperila Leilua - For services to the community, particularly youth and Pacific peoplesTiliilagi Leilua - For services to the community, particularly youth and Pacific peoplesValerie Joan Lissette - For services to danceMoira Catherine Lockington - For services to the communityPamela Anne Logan - For services to theatrePatricia Annette Macaulay - For services to the communityCarolyn Mayes - For services to conservationRonald James Moles - For services to education and the communityFiona Mary Murdoch - For services to danceDelza Reay Neben - For services to print media and the communityJohn William Oliver - For services to Fire and Emergency New Zealand and the communityJyoti Parashar, JP - For services to the communityGraeme Victor Pearce - For services to heritage preservation and the communityMarie Teresa Pearce - For services to the community and local governmentNeville Gordon Phillips - For services to Fire and Emergency New Zealand and ice sportsPeter Herehere Priest - For services to Māori and conservationSusan Lyall Priest - For services to Māori and conservationDavid John Ramsay - For services to the communityRangimahora Mokomoko Reddy - For services to Māori healthDavid Malcolm James Richmond - For services to sport, particularly athletics and cricketEugene Shane Te Awamate Ryder - For services to survivors of abuse in careBarbara Anne Simpson - For services to conservation and the communityAnne Acton Sinclair - For services to the communityDarryl William Smith - For services to survivors of abuse in careRichard Antony Dougal Steele, JP - For services to the rural communityPeter David Swain - For services to the communityTeremoana Terepai - For services to the Pacific community and seniorsMargaret Ann Vickers - For services to the communityGrahame Roy Perry Webber - For services to local government and farming governancePhyllis Rosemary Weir - For services to cricket and horticultureCraig John Wells - For services to business and the communityJennifer Gai Wotten - For services to the community and squashThe New Zealand Antarctic MedalAlastair Robin Fastier - For services to Antarctic heritage conservationColin Chalmers Monteath, QSM - For services to Antarctic field support, archival preservation, literature and photographyThe New Zealand Distinguished Service DecorationSquadron Leader Paul Leslie Stockley - For services to the New Zealand Defence Force

Summer is upon us, and as the hordes head to the beach to enjoy the water, some sharks are also heading inshore.In November, diver Jade Kahukore-Dixon died in a shark attack near the Chatham Islands.And in recent weeks, there had been sightings of great white sharks in the Kawhia harbour, prompting the Department of Conservation to issue a warning to swimmers.But shark scientist Dr Riley Elliott said the risk of shark attacks was actually pretty low.Over summer, sharks headed inshore to drop off their pups in nursery habitats, he said.Those areas were usually warm, calm, shallow and had lots of small fish, and generally happened to be the nice places people liked to swim in."But what that does mean is we don our Speedos and we go to the beach and we see sharks."The most common shark that people would see in the North Island and Upper South Island was the bronze whaler, Elliott said.The bronze whaler is the most common shark that people would see in the North Island and upper South Island. Photo: NIWAFurther south, they could encounter the sevengill shark and the great white shark.Sharks predominantly did their own thing, but to reduce being appealing to a shark, he recommended avoiding swimming in areas where people were fishing.Likewise, fishers should not discard their filleted fish parts in areas where people would swim, Elliott said.Sharks, like the bronze whaler, also loved fish and were drawn to areas where people went fishing.People needed to remember that when they were in the sea, they were in a wild environment with wild animals, he said."We should remember that it is their supermarket that we are venturing into."The deadliest of the sharks was the great white, but Elliott said they usually posed the biggest risk to surfers."That's usually aligned with the fact that surfers dress up like seals wearing wetsuits and surf around where seals aggregate."But that was a very small portion of the population and most surfers understood that risk, he said.The risk of a shark attack was tiny compared to the risk of drowning, he said.For the safest way to enjoy the ocean, he advised people to swim between the flags.

A recent analysis by dogandlemon.com suggests that New Zealand's low road toll in 2024 can be largely attributed to the economic recession.According to Clive Matthew-Wilson, editor of the website and a road safety campaigner, recessions tend to lead to lower road tolls globally."The overall road toll in New Zealand has been steadily falling since the late 1980s, but the annual highs and lows of the toll closely follow the economy," he explains.Matthew-Wilson points to historical data, noting that New Zealand's worst road toll was in 1973, with 843 fatalities.Following the 1973 fuel crisis, the road toll dropped significantly.Similarly, after the 1987 global sharemarket crash, the road toll decreased by 70.Several factors have contributed to the long-term decline in New Zealand's road toll, including the importation of safer used Japanese cars, highway improvements, and stricter enforcement of speed, drink-driving, and seatbelt laws.However, Matthew-Wilson emphasises that poverty and socioeconomic factors also play a significant role in road safety."Poor people die more often on the roads than rich people," he notes.Motorcyclists are disproportionately represented in fatal crashes, accounting for 18% of fatalities and 23% of serious injuries between 2019 and 2023.Trucks also pose a significant risk, making up nearly 20% of the road toll.Matthew-Wilson argues that the key to lowering the road toll lies in improving roads, vehicles, and enforcement strategies.He advocates for measures such as moving freight from trucks to rail, making motorbike licenses harder to obtain, and targeting high-risk groups.Ultimately, Matthew-Wilson believes that a multifaceted approach is necessary to address the complex issue of road safety.Have a story to share?Contact [email protected]

The ASB Classic Women’s Tennis Tournament kicks off today in Auckland, drawing some of the world’s top talent to the ASB Tennis Arena. With 14 nationalities represented and a lineup featuring seven Grand Slam champions, fans can expect a thrilling week of tennis action.New Zealand’s own Lulu Sun, currently ranked 40th in the world, enters the tournament as the fourth seed. Sun, who made headlines by reaching the Wimbledon quarterfinals this year, will face Canadian Rebecca Marino in her first-round match. Born in Te Anau and raised in Switzerland, Sun recently made the switch to represent New Zealand, generating significant hometown support.Adding to the excitement is the return of 2021 US Open champion Emma Raducanu. The British star, fresh off an undefeated run at the Billie Jean King Cup finals, is seeded sixth. Raducanu is joined by another global icon, Japan’s Naomi Osaka, who is making her comeback after the birth of her daughter. Osaka, a four-time Grand Slam champion and former World No. 1, enters the tournament as the seventh seed.Other notable players include Sloane Stephens, the 2017 US Open champion and 2016 ASB Classic winner, and Sofia Kenin, the 2020 Australian Open champion.ASB Classic Women’s Tennis Tournament Director Nicolas Lamperin.Tournament Director Nicolas Lamperin expressed his excitement about the strong field, stating, “I am very pleased with the quality of the field this year, with the winners of seven Grand Slams, a US Open runner-up, and a mix of proven performers and exciting young players. To have Lulu Sun back home as the No. 4 seed is evidence of her incredible year. This is a wonderful opportunity for Kiwi fans to watch their own New Zealand star playing at home.”Women’s Singles Draw HighlightsLulu Sun (NZL) vs. Rebecca Marino (CAN)Emma Raducanu (GBR) vs. Robin Montgomery (USA)Naomi Osaka (JPN) vs. QualifierSloane Stephens (USA) vs. Ann Li (USA)Sofia Kenin (USA) vs. Xinyu Wang (CHN)Event DetailsGates Open: 10:30 AMMatches Begin: 11:30 AMWith its blend of local talent, returning champions, and rising stars, the ASB Classic promises an unforgettable experience for tennis fans.Have a story to share?Contact [email protected]

The Auckland Zoo's Australia Bush Track has reopened after undergoing significant upgrades, offering visitors a unique and immersive experience this summer.Locals and their families can explore the revamped habitat, featuring an expansive new 4m high enclosure for rock-dwelling skinks and arboreal dragons.This new habitat is already home to 18 Cunningham's skinks, which were relocated from 'Lizard Lane' prior to the January 2023 Auckland flood.In 2025, the zoo will welcome frilled-necked dragons, a unique and extraordinary arboreal lizard native to northern Australia.This will mark the first time these dragons have been showcased in New Zealand.Currently, visitors can see emus, including Elvis and Ellie-May, and brolga roaming the habitat.Although the arrival of Eastern grey kangaroos from Australia has been delayed, they are expected to join the zoo's collection later in 2025.The zoo has also upgraded the entry and exit point of the walkthrough Australian aviary, creating a more spacious and attractive area that improves visitor flow while maintaining the safety and security of the birds.When visiting the Australia Bush Track habitat, be sure to explore the rest of the track, which features various bird and reptile species, fish, and Tasmanian devils.Have a story to share?Contact [email protected]

Auckland FC bounced back from last week's defeat with a convincing 4-1 away victory over the Central Coast Mariners, reclaiming their position at the top of the league table.The match saw Auckland FC welcome experienced centre-back Tommy Smith to the starting lineup, allowing Hiroki Sakai to shift to right-back.This tactical adjustment paid off early, as Sakai headed in a cross from Francis de Vries in the 22nd minute.However, the lead was short-lived, as Alfie McCalmont equalised for the Mariners just three minutes later.Auckland reclaimed the lead with a stunning volley from Jake Brimmer in the 31st minute.Guillermo May extended Auckland's lead in the 39th minute, tapping in a cross from de Vries.The second half saw the Mariners apply pressure, but Auckland sealed the win with a late goal from substitute Rogerson.Auckland FC will host Melbourne Victory on New Year's Day, with tickets available online here.Have a story to share?Contact [email protected]

Coasties planning to enjoy a fishing trip this summer are reminded by Fisheries New Zealand to brush up on the rules to ensure a safe and sustainable experience.With thousands of Kiwis taking to the water for recreation and sustenance each year, Fisheries NZ is encouraging fishers to download the free NZ Fishing Rules mobile app. The app offers essential details such as daily bag limits, minimum legal sizes, gear restrictions, and alerts about closures or biotoxins."The app has everything you need to know," says Steve Ham, director of fisheries compliance. "Having it on your phone gives you the peace of mind of having the right information at your fingertips, even in areas without cell coverage."NZ Fishing Rules appFisheries officers and honorary officers will be patrolling coastlines, boat ramps, and open waters over the summer to help ensure compliance and protect shared fisheries. Fishers can also text 9889 with the name of a species to receive limits via text or seek guidance from their local fisheries office."By following the rules, you’ll not only avoid fines but also contribute to sustaining fisheries for future generations," Ham says.Recreational fishers are urged to report suspected illegal activities via MPI's 0800 4 POACHER hotline (0800 47 62 24) or seek further advice by contacting MPI directly at 0800 00 83 33 or [email protected] a story to share?Contact [email protected]

Some New Zealand roads are notorious due to the number of fatal and serious crashes there, others because they are steep and narrow with no room for driver error.Most highways in Aotearoa are sealed and have two lanes but the country also has some narrow unsealed roads, some of which are winding and climbing with spectacular views.What is a 'dangerous road'?Deciding if a road is dangerous is subjective, but one indicator is a high number of fatal or serious crashes on a particular stretch of road over an extended period of time.A dangerous road might also be one that is precarious for a driver to negotiate, or even one that rental car companies refuse to insure you to drive on because they consider the risk is too high.AA communications, research and road safety manager Dylan Thomsen said the highest risk roads are generally highways because they carry the most traffic and at higher speeds.For most drivers, the riskiest ones they travel on are the ones that are higher speed, have no median barrier and are busy, he said."When someone is travelling on a road like that there is much less margin for error because a mistake by anyone is more likely to result in a crash and vehicles also have the ability to go head-on into oncoming traffic."Weather conditions such as flooding, snow or high winds or the risk of rock falls or avalanches may also make it difficult to drive even on roads which are usually straight-forward or familiar.Highways with few passing lanes (such as often occur in the South Island), tricky to negotiate intersections, or blind corners could also contribute to a road being more challenging for drivers.How safe is NZ's highway network?The New Zealand Road Assessment Programme or KiwiRAP developed by the Automobile Association and Transport Agency rated nearly 90 percent of New Zealand's state highway network, covering more than 10,000km of rural highways with speed limits of 80km/h or more.It said that equated to about 12 percent of New Zealand roads, but accounted for nearly half of all fatal crashes.KiwiRAP released a five star rating system for the rural state highway network in 2010 which showed that 39 percent of New Zealand's roads received two stars, with 56 percent getting a three star rating.Only 5 percent of the roads surveyed were rated with four stars, but KiwiRap said that was where 28 percent of the country's travel occurred (ie on motorways with a high traffic volume).The survey showed that at that time only 5 percent of New Zealand's road network was median divided, a move that would improve road safety, while only 20 percent had "forgiving and safe roadside conditions".On the plus side, 96 percent of the network had "good delineation" and 98 percent had wide lanes.Work underway to update crash infoThomsen said the AA Research Foundation was part way through looking at crash rates on a number of highways, but that was not yet finalised."Part of the reason we have undertaken that work is because we wanted to get an update on which highways have the highest crash rates, which can then help prioritise where safety upgrades are most needed."The work was expected to be released early in 2025, he said.The fact a number of new stretches of highway had recently opened made it difficult to determine the country's highest risk roads right now, he said.Previous AA Research Foundation research found that there was on average a 37 percent reduction in deaths and serious injuries where new stretches of road were added, he said.But there was not yet enough data to show how much the new roads had improved road safety, he said.Some of NZ's most dangerous roadsSkippers Road: Skippers Road is 17.4km long, running from the paved Coronet Peak Road to Skippers Campground.It is not one of New Zealand's most dangerous roads in terms of fatalities, but the fact that it is extremely narrow and cut from the middle of a sheer cliff face qualifies it to be on this list.The dangerousroads.org website says in most places the road is "too narrow for most vehicles to pass each other, with no guardrails, and the drop-offs leave absolutely no room for error". It is one of the few roads in New Zealand that rental car companies will not allow you to take their cars.Old North Road: There were 13 deaths and serious injuries on Waimauku's Old North Road from 2014-2019.This year, Auckland Transport said Old North Road was considered a high-risk rural road for crashes and it was intending to install a roadside safety barrier adjacent to 1011 Old North Road in December 2024 "to provide a safer section of road for vehicles, motorcycles and cyclists".SH2 from Katikati to Tauranga - Bay of Plenty: NZTA said the stretch of State Highway 2 was one of the highest risk roads in Bay of Plenty.Between 2009 and 2018, 27 people were killed and 77 were seriously injured on this winding stretch of road, it said.In response to the high crash numbers speed limits were lowered in a number of places, including from Katikati to Te Puna, parts of Te Puna, Bethlehem and Pahoia School zone.In July 2024, NZTA installed flexible wire rope median barriers on sections of SH2, south of Katikati as part of its safety improvements.But the barrier has drawn criticism and protests because it limits cars and trucks from turning into side streets.SH1 from Cambridge to Piarere: The road between Cambridge and Piarere had long been frustrating to motorists travelling south with frequent congestion as two lanes merged into one, the Waikato Times reported.The existing highway south, is also a notorious crash spot, it said.Construction of the Cambridge to Piarere extension of the Waikato Expressway could begin in two years, it reported.SH1 Whangārei to Marsden Point - Northland: NZTA said that from 2011 to 2021, 22 people had lost their lives and 73 people had been seriously injured on that stretch of highway.Mostly they were either head-on crashes or caused by people turning onto or off the highway, it said.The road is one of the government's Roads of National Significance with plans to make 22km of SH1 south of Whangārei four lanes, including upgrading the SH1/SH15 intersection.SH1 north from Kawakawa to Springs Flat - Northland: The State Highway 1 stretch of road from Springs Flat, just north of Kamo, to Kawakawa is just over 45km.According to KiwiRAP data there were 14 deaths, 41 serious injuries and 133 minor injuries on that stretch of road from 2012 to 2016.But in 2017, Inspector Wayne Ewers told The Northern Advocate that it was not necessarily the road but speed, people not wearing a seatbelt or other factors which caused the deaths, many of which could have been prevented.But he did acknowledge "it's a serious piece of road" and that people needed to be alert and concentrating when they drove on it.The camera is located next to State Highway 1 between Kawakawa and Moerewa.SH58, also known as Haywards Hill, connects Porirua to the Hutt Valley - SH58 averages about 20,000 vehicles a day and in the past it has been described it as the most dangerous road in the Wellington region due to high speed, traffic volume and side-road hazards leading to severe road crashes.However, there has been been a safety programme to upgrade the highway which is ongoing.Crown Range Road from Queenstown to Wānaka - This is the highest main road in New Zealand reaching an altitude of 1121 metres.Tourism New Zealand warns that the road is often covered in snow and ice in winter making for difficult driving conditions.It advises anyone driving the Crown Range Road from May to September to carry chains and to know how to fit them.During the summer months the road can be busy so motorists need to slow down and stay alert, it said.Milford Road from Te Anau to Milford - Milford Road is the only way to access the Milford Sound Piopiotahi.It can be a difficult road to negotiate in winter when there is a risk of ice, snow and avalanches.Motorists may need to carry chains between June and November.NZTA said an avalanche control programme was in place to keep the road open as much as possible during the avalanche season.The road was closed for about eight days a year on average, when the weather and high avalanche risk made it unsafe, NZTA said.

Coasties preparing for tertiary education can look forward to the introduction of a new final-year Fees Free scheme starting 1 January 2025.This initiative, announced by Tertiary Education and Skills Minister Penny Simmonds, will provide eligible first-time learners with up to $12,000 to cover their final year of provider-based study or the last two years of work-based learning.The new programme replaces the current first-year Fees Free scheme, which will conclude at the end of 2024.Payments under the final-year model will be available after learners complete their qualifications, with the first payments expected in 2026 for studies completed in 2025.“This decision reflects the Government’s focus on incentivising educational success and ensuring funding delivers maximum value for both learners and communities,” Ms Simmonds said.The entitlement applies to learners studying at Level 3 and above on the New Zealand Qualifications and Credentials Framework.The initiative aims to reward students for their perseverance, motivating them to complete their studies and achieve their educational goals.The policy, approved by Cabinet in April 2024, was developed as part of the National-New Zealand First Coalition’s commitment to improving tertiary education funding.The Tertiary Education Commission and Inland Revenue will oversee its implementation. Learners will be able to claim the entitlement through myIR from early 2026, supported by a streamlined data-sharing process.“This Government is focused on fostering educational achievement, rewarding perseverance, and preparing learners for bright futures,” Ms Simmonds said.For the Hibiscus Coast community, the new scheme offers local students and families an opportunity to pursue higher education with greater financial support, enabling long-term benefits for individuals and the community as a whole.Have a story to share?Contact [email protected]

It's been a tough year for proponents of electric vehicles.From 1 January, the Clean Car Discount ended and rebates were no longer available to purchasers.From 1 April, electric vehicles and plug-in hybrids started to be charged road user charges.Now, ACC levies are set to increase from $42.09 in the current year - the same as a petrol car - to $109.05 in the next financial year.By the 2027/28 year, the levy for electric vehicle owners will be $122.24 - twice the petrol rate.Until now, electric car ACC rates have been discounted as the Government tried to boost EV ownership rates.But this Government is generally unwinding those incentives. Petrol cars also pay ACC levies on petrol they buy at the pump.Kirsten Corson, chair of Drive Electric, which represents the sector, said it had been "really hard". She said while the changes to the clean car discount scheme and the road user charges had been communicated before the election, the ACC levy was a surprise."It is sending a message to the market which isn't as positive as we would like."Obviously from a Drive Electric perspective, we want to see fair and equitable policies put in place."The average petrol car in New Zealand is 15 years old, the average EV is less than four. They are a lot safer cars with newer technology, the risk of accidents is a lot lower with EVs… in the bigger scheme, it's a small impact but these all add up."Motor Industry Association chief executive Aimee Wiley said the Government wanted to maintain consistency in policy settings."However, the timing of this change could be better for both the new vehicle industry and motorists. The MIA strongly urged the government to carefully consider the broader implications - timing, impacts and outcomes - of such policy decisions before determining when to proceed."Effective policy changes must strike a balance and consider consumer affordability and economic, social, and environmental factors affecting New Zealand."The MIA does not support the timing of this decision, which we believe is premature. We are deeply concerned about its impact on the already fragile EV market. A decline in consumer demand for EVs will significantly hinder the industry's ability to meet the increasingly stringent CO2 targets set for 1 January 2025."Infometrics chief executive Brad Olsen said the incentives were never going to last forever."Now we've got a good proportion the government is going, 'They need to pay their way just as much' - but it does feel like [the charges and levies] have come through all at once."It comes at a time when everyone has got a much heightened focus on cost after going through the most intense inflation our country has had in a generation."The fuel excise duty probably "undercooked" the cost that petrol cars should be paying, Olsen said.This was calculated on the basis that a car that used a certain amount of petrol would have driven a typical amount."As cars got more fuel efficient it takes less fuel to do the same distance and for the same hit on the road. So cars are using less petrol and paying less fuel excise duty - all else being equal."If or when we can get better use charging on vehicles, if you got rid of fuel excise duty and petrol cars had to pay road user charge, we would probably see something quite similar between EVs and petrol cars."Registrations of new, full battery electric vehicles were down 55 percent in the year to November compared to the same time a year earlier, Olsen said.Plug-in hybrids were down 51 percent.Petrol vehicles dropped 5 percent and diesel 22 percent."The challenge here is you've got much more difficult economic times… [but we've seen] a much greater hit to those vehicle types."EVs cheaper post-rebateWiley said the messaging to consumers had changed and that made it seem as though EVs were not as affordable as they used to be."What consumers don't necessarily know is that EVs are cheaper now than with the rebate. We knew over time the price of technology would come down anyway but the price of technology hasn't come down, it's more because of a sudden change in consumer demand."What used to be two or three months of stock became one or two years because no one was buying. You can't sit on EVs - they don't like to just sit still, the batteries need to be used or refurbished if they're not used."This had led distributors and manufacturers trying to clear stock, Wiley said."There's never been a better time to be buying [in] terms of price point but the problem is once they've cleared their stock the prices won't stay like that forever."Some distributors were making massive losses this year, she said.If people could charge their cars at home they would cost the equivalent of 40c a litre to run, Wiley said."The messaging to the consumer has been heavily dominated by policy this year rather than features. EVs are newer, safer, cleaner but it's a new technology and that comes with hesitation for some people to want to adapt. When the ACC changes hit, that's going to have as similar impact in the short-term as road user charges on EVs did."Corson said EVs still stacked up from a running perspective. "They're still the most cost-effective option for Kiwis to drive. If you're charging at home after-hours, it's a massive saving. If you're charging overnight it's about $3 per 100km."This worked out to about $20 per 100km in a typical car.The futureWiley said the industry needed to consider how it could communicate more strongly how the move to EVs was less about policy change and more about opportunities for consumers."What's best for the consumer, what's best for the environment. What do we want our fleet in New Zealand to look like in the future?"The sentiment around electric vehicles feels negative but I don't think it should. They're a really impressive product… I don't think we should be playing one type of power off against another… when it comes time to buy our next vehicles, if we all buy the cleanest, safest newest car we can afford, it will have the biggest meaningful difference for human safety, human health and air quality and the environment long-term. If people thought about that it would make a big difference."Corson said it would take a while for New Zealand to "flip its fleet" to the point where more cars were electric."In the likes of Norway, where they've had a lot of incentives, over 90 percent of new car sales are electric. The reality is it takes decades to be able to flip your fleet. They're sitting at over 35 percent of the total fleet but they've been working on it since 1990. If you look at New Zealand, we've got one of the oldest and dirtiest fleets in the OECD. It's going to take a bit longer."Corson said she would like the government to consider whether the ACC levies were equitable.Policies to encourage homes and businesses to adopt smart charging infrastructure would also be welcome."That's set to save us billions of dollars - as opposed to doing it retrospectively, which will cost twice as much."

Your Weekly News Fix.Catch up on the top local stories that made headlines this week!Top Stories You Need to Know…Penlink Project Makes Significant ProgressWatch VideoAuckland Overnight Motorway ClosuresRead moreAll the road closures that might impact your summer road tripRead more Temporary Closure Hits Wenderholm Regional ParkRead moreChristmas Beetles: A Seasonal CuriosityRead moreStay ahead of the curve.Get the latest local news and information through the Hibiscus Coast App. Download the app now!Have a story to share?Contact [email protected]

Locals along the Hibiscus Coast Highway experienced traffic disruptions on Friday afternoon as firefighters responded to a large scrub fire in the area. Crews from Silverdale, East Coast Bays, and Manly fire stations were called to contain the fire.According to Fire and Emergency, the fire burned through approximately 200 by 30 metres of vegetation at its peak. Five fire trucks, a tanker, and two support units were deployed to the scene to battle the flames and prevent further spread.As of late afternoon, fire crews remained on-site, working to extinguish hotspots and ensure the area was safe.The fire caused delays for motorists along the Hibiscus Coast Highway. Fire and Emergency did not report any injuries or structural damage caused by the incident.In a separate, earlier event on Friday, the Manly Fire Station also attended a minor incident at Tindalls Beach.Crews have reminded the public to remain vigilant during dry and windy conditions, as vegetation fires can escalate quickly.Have a story to share?Contact [email protected]

Locals will be interested to learn that three men are facing charges following a shoplifting incident in Albany on Thursday afternoon.Police were called to a store on Greville Road at around 1.50 pm on 26 December after two individuals reportedly left without paying for several items.The pair fled the area in a vehicle driven by a third person, heading northbound towards East Coast Road.Shortly after, Police located the vehicle parked nearby on Greville Road.Officers took all three men into custody and conducted a search of the vehicle.During the search, Police discovered approximately $2,700 worth of items, including clothing, perfumes, food products, and toys.Police confirmed that all stolen items have since been returned to their respective stores.Investigations into the incident are ongoing, and further charges have not been ruled out at this time.The three men now face charges in the North Shore District Court.A 33-year-old man is charged with shoplifting and is scheduled to appear in court today.A 31-year-old man faces charges of aggravated assault and two counts of shoplifting and is also due in court today.A 34-year-old man is charged with shoplifting and is scheduled to appear in court on Monday, 6 January.Police continue to investigate the matter, ensuring due process is followed.Have a story to share?Contact [email protected]

As summer warms up the Hibiscus Coast, many of us notice an increase in beetle activity. While Christmas beetles are primarily associated with Australia, our local beetle population becomes more active during this time.Reports suggest that when temperatures rise, more beetles seem to appear, particularly around homes with open windows or doors. Attracted to bright lights, these beetles may land on individuals, causing some to feel uneasy.No Need to WorryThese beetles, though startling, pose little danger to humans. They neither bite nor sting and are not toxic.Additionally, they do not transmit diseases or parasites.What Attracts Them?These herbivorous beetles primarily feed on local vegetation. While their swarming behavior around lights at night can be a nuisance, they do not actively seek human interaction.A Seasonal CuriositySummer beetles are more of a seasonal curiosity than a health risk. As we enjoy the warmer weather, it's interesting to note the increase in beetle activity around our homes and community.Have a story to share?Contact [email protected]

Auckland's railway lines will be empty with no trains operating for the next 32 days.It is the first extended period of rail closures in the city - in total, 96 days of empty tracks are planned, through to the end of January 2026.That means no passenger trains, freight trains, Northern Explorer or Te Huia train.The shutdown is to allow for KiwiRail to complete rail rebuild works that are crucial to the successful opening of City Rail Link in 2026.When will trains be down?KiwiRail and Auckland Transport have tried to match up the rail shutdowns with school and public holiday periods.These include:The summer holidays from 26 December to 27 January 2025Easter and term one holidays from 12 to 27 AprilKing's Birthday from 30 May to 2 JuneMatariki from 20 to 23 JuneLabour weekend from 24 to 27 OctoberSummer holidays from 20 December to 26 January 2026Another 24 days of trains running at single-line reduced frequency are also planned for 2025 - happening every second weekend from 28 June to 21 September, and for 12 consecutive days from 14 to 25 December.A few weeks of back-up closures are also set out, but will only be used if needed - trains will run on a single line, at a reduced frequency. If KiwiRail needs more time to complete work, it has set out 29 total days, in three blocks over January/February, June/July, and September/October school holiday periods.Why does this have to happen?The shutdown makes time to complete the final stages of the Rail Network Rebuild - a long-winded project of upgrading and repairing Auckland's railway system, which commenced in January of 2023.KiwiRail chief infrastructure officer Andre Lovatt said it was "critical upgrade work" to get the network ready for the City Rail Link."What we're doing in that period of time is upgrading our network from a freight train network to one that can withstand or accommodate the very high frequency metro trains that are gonna be on the tracks when CRL opens."City Rail Link, when opened, will double Auckland's rail capacity with four new stations in the CBD.But to ensure the full CRL benefits of more reliable, faster and frequent trains are realised, rebuild work on the rest of the railway network needs to be finished.Without the 96 days of closures, the rebuild would have been completed after CRL's opening."If we weren't able to do that, then all of that taxpayer money that's been invested in CRL hasn't actually resulted in the ultimate benefits of that project," Lovatt said.The government has also put $200 million towards getting the rail rebuild finished.What railway works will be done?KiwiRail will be replacing track foundations and improving drainage on the Western Line between New Lynn and Swanson, and on the Southern Line between Newmarket and Britomart, and between Ōtāhuhu and Papakura, and on other parts of the network.It will be replacing ageing sleepers on bridges around Newmarket, Parnell and near Tāmaki Drive, and working on the Parnell tunnel.And upgrades to track infrastructure, power supplies and signal systems will - among other things - remove the temporary speed restrictions that caused havoc and widespread cancellations last February in Auckland.Upgrades to Middlemore station will be finished, and new stations in Drury and Pareātā will finish construction.Lovatt said KiwiRail was squeezing a decade's worth of work into 15 months."We are going to be able to operate more frequent trains and trains will be able to run faster. In essence, what that will mean is in the city, trains will run every four to five minutes, and journey times - for example from Henderson in the west to the central city - will be a 35-minute journey."What other public transport options are there?Auckland Transport group manager of public transport operations Rachel Cara said rail replacement buses will be put on whenever trains are not running, every 20 minutes, and other frequent routes will be bolstered with extra services.From 6 January, AT will be adding express rail replacement buses as people return to work."We're confident that the plan we have will be able to cope with the number of passengers that will be moving through this four-week period. It's a quieter time of year for public transport with lots of people still on holiday. We're also able to redeploy school buses to support our rail replacement services as well."Cara said the AT operations centre would be closely monitoring the network and traffic flow during the rail shutdown.There was a dedicated plan for the first 32-day shutdown, and Cara said AT will come up with specific plans for the rest of the closures throughout 2025.Have a story to share?Contact [email protected]

Coasties can expect the next four days to bring the following:Friday - 27/12Windy and partly cloudy. Brisk South to Sou'West winds.High: 23Low: 15Saturday - 28/12Generally clear and windy. Breezy to brisk Sou'West winds.High: 23Low: 15Sunday - 29/12Mostly sunny. Fairly breezy Sou'West winds.High: 23Low: 17Monday - 30/12Windy, with morning showers. Breezy to brisk West to Sou'West winds.High: 22Low: 15Looking ahead to the start of the new year, January 1st will be warm, mostly sunny and breezy.Check out our Reports section for weather updates, tide information, wind conditions, wave forecasts, recommended swimming areas, and lots more.Anytime, anywhere – everything you need is inside the Hibiscus Coast App.

As the festive season continues, many Coasties are seeking ways to spread kindness and joy to those around them.The Hibiscus Coast offers plenty of opportunities to brighten someone’s day and make a positive impact in the neighbourhood.One thoughtful way to spread holiday cheer is by baking treats and sharing them with neighbours.Whether it’s a batch of freshly baked cookies, a loaf of homemade bread, or some festive cupcakes, simple acts of baking can bring warmth and happiness to those who may be feeling lonely or isolated this time of year.Another easy but powerful gesture is leaving kind notes.A handwritten message or small card with a positive, encouraging quote can brighten someone's day.It could be as simple as leaving a note on a neighbour’s doorstep.Supporting local businesses is also a meaningful way to spread kindness during the holiday season.Many small businesses on the Hibiscus Coast rely on community support, and this time of year offers a great opportunity to show appreciation by shopping locally.Whether it’s buying a thoughtful gift or enjoying a meal at a local restaurant, supporting these businesses helps keep the community vibrant and thriving.For those looking to give back in a more hands-on way, volunteering is another fantastic option.The gift of time can be just as meaningful as any material present.It doesn’t take much to brighten someone’s day.The spirit of the season can be felt in small, simple acts.As we head into the new year, let’s remember that kindness is something we can share all year long, not just during the holidays.Have a story to share?Contact [email protected]