If your phone suddenly blares an alarm this evening, don’t panic—it’s just a test. Between 6pm and 7pm, the National Emergency Management Agency will be running a nationwide trial of New Zealand’s Emergency Mobile Alert system.These alerts are designed to warn locals of serious threats like natural disasters or public health risks. They’re issued only by authorised agencies like Police, Fire and Emergency, and the Ministry of Health. Sunday’s alert is just a drill to make sure the system works as intended.Most phones purchased in New Zealand since 2017 should receive the alert, as long as they’ve got mobile reception and their software is up to date. There’s no app to download and no subscription needed—the alert is broadcast automatically to capable devices in the affected area.If you’ve got kids, pets, or elderly family members who might find the loud tone distressing, it’s a good idea to switch phones off or put them in flight mode for the hour. Silent mode won’t stop the sound on all devices.Whether it’s a tsunami warning or a public health risk, these alerts help get important information out fast.If you don’t receive the alert and think your phone should have, check that it supports cell broadcasts and has the latest software installed. Some imported models may not be compatible.It’s just a test—but it could save lives when it counts.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

Welcome to The Week That Was—your go-to recap of the most important news, stories, and updates for the Hibiscus Coast community.Coastie Success: Just Bliss BeautyRead moreOrewa Library's Fresh New Look InsideRead moreHibiscus Coast App Hits Major MilestoneRead moreFourth Arrest in Gulf Harbour CaseRead moreMillwater Agent Wins Top AwardRead moreStay Connected, Stay Informed. Get the latest updates, stories, and events from around the Hibiscus Coast—right at your fingertips.Download the Hibiscus Coast App now for instant access to local news and stay ahead of the curve—whenever, wherever. Don’t miss out on the stories that matter most to you!Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

Blues hooker Ricky Riccitelli will bid farewell to the club at the end of the 2025 Super Rugby Pacific season, signing a new contract to play in France.Since joining the Blues in 2022, Riccitelli has cemented himself as a driving force in the forward pack. Known for his grit, relentless work rate, and reliable lineout throws, he quickly became a fan favourite. He earned the starting No. 2 jersey in 2023 and was instrumental in the team’s 2024 championship-winning campaign, starting 14 games and featuring in the Grand Final at Eden Park.Riccitelli, who first tasted Super Rugby success with the Hurricanes in 2016, also shone on the provincial stage with Taranaki. His wealth of experience and professionalism have left a mark in Auckland.“Ricky is the type of player every team needs,” said Blues GM of Rugby Murray Williams. “He’s hard-working, resilient and a true professional as a leader within our forward group. While we’re sad to see him go, he leaves with our support and gratitude.”While Riccitelli’s departure will be felt across Blues territory, it’s also a moment for Coast rugby fans to reflect on how close to home talent like this plays. Many Coasties travel in to Eden Park to support the Blues, and for local young hookers and forwards especially, Riccitelli’s story is one to follow. His journey shows what’s possible when you pair grit with consistency.The move to France marks a new chapter for Riccitelli, but his impact on the New Zealand game—and the Blues forward pack—won’t be forgotten anytime soon.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

Heads-up, Coasties—telecom works are kicking off soon between Orewa and Millwater, and they’ll be sticking around until October.Starting June 2025, EonFibre will be installing a 4.6km underground telecommunications cable on behalf of One NZ.The cable will run from Orewa Beach all the way to the CDC Data Centre on Highgate Parkway in Silverdale—right past familiar spots in Red Beach and Millwater.If you’ve ever driven past that secure high-tech facility near Mitre 10 MEGA and wondered what it does, it’s part of a major national digital infrastructure hub.Read more: Public Cloud Data Centres Certified in SilverdaleAnd this new cable will help boost its capacity, improving connectivity for both government and commercial services.The installation will be rolled out in sections, with both day (8:00–17:00) and night works (19:00–05:00) planned—especially along busier roads.Expect some lane closures, parking restrictions, and noise during the works.Roads affected include parts of Hibiscus Coast Highway, Millwater Parkway, Bonair Crescent, Jardin Court, Colonial Drive, Fernier Greens, and the Wainui Road Roundabout.Crews will be using diggers, directional drills and hydro vacs to install the cable and new manholes every 200 metres or so.Traffic management, signage, and pedestrian safety measures will be in place to keep things running smoothly.This isn’t just a routine job—it’s a significant upgrade to the Coast’s digital backbone.Once completed, the new link will support faster, more reliable services for local homes, schools, businesses, and even critical cloud-based tools.If your street is part of the route, you’ll receive another letter closer to your specific start date.In the meantime, locals with questions can contact the EonFibre team directly.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

Last week the Blues brought their trademark energy to Silverdale as part of their annual Club Blitz, reconnecting with the community that’s long supported their Super Rugby journey.Blues players visited five North Harbour clubs — Massey, Kumeu, Takapuna, Marist, and our very own Silverdale — turning regular evening trainings into unforgettable sessions for junior and youth players.The visits included casual walk-throughs, meet-and-greets, signing sessions, and a friendly game of touch.It wasn’t just about footy — it was about making memories, inspiring the next generation, and showing kids that they’re part of something bigger.Blues CEO Andrew Hore summed it up nicely: “These communities play a huge role in shaping the future of the game. Our players love getting out into the community — it brings energy to the team and reminds us of the bigger picture.”For local families, having professional players run drills with their kids at Silverdale Rugby Club means more than just fun.It’s about belonging. It’s a chance for young Coasties to see themselves in the game’s future — and for parents, a proud moment watching their club shine on the Blues' map.Next Saturday, the Blues will look to bounce back from last week’s loss to Moana Pasifika as they take on the Waratahs at Eden Park.Kick-off is at 7:05.Let’s hope the boost of Coast-side energy helps lift them to victory.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

Oyster farmers in the Warkworth area, fear their businesses won't survive the year.They say the dumping of untreated raw sewage into the Mahurangi Harbour has led to frequent restrictions on their ability to harvest, and they're urging Watercare and Auckland Council to invest in waste treatment solutions that are effective and sustainable.Tim Aitken bought Mahurangi Oysters in 2020. Since then, he's invested his life savings in the business, including moving to a flip farm to make it more sustainable."In 2020 we had 20 odd days closure. And so far in 2025, we've been closed for 64 days which is 100 percent of our harvesting period so far," he said.They had been looking at exporting but now can't guarantee supply because of the closures.Aitken said the brand he'd spent the last five years developing was now by association with the harbour, "shot"."It's not just I can't sell oysters, our brand is Mahurangi oysters," he said.Aitken was frustrated and upset. He said it now looked like they could be closed the whole year which he feared the business would not survive."I hate to say it but we might not have a business by the end of the year."Meanwhile Tom Walters has been running Matakana Oysters for over 20 years."There's a few of us that are just very small oyster farmers. I'm not a big oyster farmer. We're just 'ma and pa' guys."Walters was also doubtful of the business' future."We've had many crises over the years but none have compared to this," he said."It's devastating. I'm looking at losing everything."It had also made him rethink New Zealand's reputation as a 'clean and green' country.Walters said it was an issue driven by infrastructure failing to keep up with the growth of Warkworth.He said such issues were popping up all around New Zealand, where growth was being allowed at the expense of the environment."There shouldn't be growth until the bloody infrastructure is in place. You don't build backwards. And that's what's happening everywhere."Walters said temporary measures designed to help have yet to be implemented and a more longterm solution will come too late.In a statement, Watercare chief strategy and planning officer Priyan Perera said the Auckland Council-controlled water services provide was developing a $450 million programme to transform wastewater services in the Warkworth area, including a new pipeline which will help reduce wet weather overflows to the Mahurangi River.The pipeline was not expected to be completed until 2028.While the new pipeline would make the biggest difference in reducing wet weather overflows to the river, Watercare was working to reduce the frequency of overflows in the shorter term.Perera said Watercare is in regular contact with Mahurangi Harbour oyster farmers about work being undertaken to improve the situation, including alerting them to the event of any overflows."We sympathise with the Mahurangi Harbour oyster farmers and are committed to improving the situation for them.Watercare will be meeting with the farmers next week to provide them with an update.

If you're heading into town next week, keep an eye out for lane restrictions on State Highway 1. From Monday 26 to Thursday 30 May, maintenance crews will be working between the Silverdale interchange and Oteha Valley Road between 11am and 7pm each day. This work is part of ongoing slip repairs, with the full project expected to run through until June 2025.Southbound lanes will remain open, but some lane closures will be in place, so delays are likely. Drivers are asked to slow down and follow all traffic management instructions to keep everyone safe. You may also notice increased noise levels during the day as the crew carries out the repairs.Planning ahead and allowing a little extra travel time will help make the journey smoother for everyone.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

Trade Me’s had a bit of a glow-up—and Coasties might spot the changes next time they hop on to buy, sell, or just have a nosey.The company is rolling out a fresh new look across its website and apps. Think updated logos, a modernised homepage, and a cleaner, simpler design. It’s all about making things feel consistent, trustworthy, and easy to use—without losing the feel-good familiarity that’s made Trade Me a Kiwi staple for years.Behind the scenes, Trade Me’s team has been digging into how New Zealanders interact with the platform, with the goal of creating a more unified experience. Some bits—like the app icons—are already live, while other tweaks will roll out over the coming weeks.So, what’s different?A sleeker logo and design now appear across the siteThe app icons have had a refresh on both iOS and AndroidDesktop users will now find the “Log out” button down the bottom of the page“Browse” is now called “Categories” andThe “Stores” section has moved under “Marketplace”For Coasties that rely on Trade Me to hunt for bargains, shift furniture, or offload kids' gear, the refresh is a welcome change. It keeps the platform feeling fresh and easy to navigate without changing the way we use it.It’s not a dramatic overhaul—just a tidy-up that makes things feel smoother, easier, and more trustworthy when you’re browsing or buying.And with so many local buyers and sellers using the site daily, these small tweaks are likely to make a big difference across the Coast too.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

Auckland FC are one game away from making history—and the Hibiscus Coast will be watching.After a gutsy 1–0 win away in Melbourne thanks to a brilliant Logan Rogerson header in the 66th minute, Auckland FC now return home for the all-important second leg of the A-League Men’s Semi Final.This Saturday 24 at Go Media Stadium will be electric, with more than 28,000 fans expected to pack the stands.It’s the club’s first-ever home semi-final, and with the home crowd behind them, Auckland are in prime position to book their spot in the Grand Final.It’s been a dream debut season in the league, capped off by claiming the Premier Plate.Now, just one match stands between the club and a shot at championship glory.Whether you’re heading to the stadium or tuning in live on Sky Sport, this is one not to miss.Gates open at 4:30, and the atmosphere promises to be huge from the first whistle.For Coasties who’ve followed Auckland’s rise, this is more than just a match—it’s a moment of pride.A local team playing fearless football and taking it to the best in the league.And if they win? It’s off to the Grand Final.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

Looking for plans? Explore events happening soon on the Hibiscus Coast and start planning your next activity!Vinyl Record SaleSat 24 MayMore detailsHibiscus Coast Painters Group ExhibitionSun May 25More detailsDrag Bingo & TriviaSun 25 MayMore detailsWant to see more events?Explore what’s happening in our community on the Hibiscus Coast App.Have an event to share?Promote it for FREE - click here

If you’ve ever looked for property around Millwater or Milldale, you’ve likely come across Bob Qin’s name.Now, he’s got another reason to stand out—taking home one of the highest honours at the 2025 Barfoot & Thompson Awards.Bob Qin, a standout salesperson from Barfoot & Thompson’s Millwater branch, has been named Residential Salesperson of the Year for 2025, winning the prestigious Val Barfoot Cup.This award is one of the top honours handed out at the annual event, which celebrates excellence across Auckland, Northland, and Bay of Plenty regions.Barfoot & Thompson, New Zealand’s largest family-owned real estate company, hosts these awards to recognise outstanding performance, leadership, and commitment to service.Bob Qin.According to CEO Chris Dobbie, the awards highlight individuals who not only achieve exceptional sales results but also lead with integrity, build strong client relationships, and lift those around them.Bob wasn’t the only local to shine.Bob Qin and his team from the Millwater branch were also named the top-selling team—a recognition that speaks volumes about their dedication and local expertise.With Barfoot & Thompson selling around four in every ten homes across Auckland and managing more than 20,000 rental properties, this recognition places Bob among the best of the best.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

A fourth person has now been charged in the 2024 Gulf Harbour homicide, following a painstaking 14-month police investigation.Police confirmed today that a 64-year-old man has been arrested and charged with kidnapping and manslaughter in relation to the death of 70-year-old Shulai Wang. Her body was discovered in a black rubbish bag in the water at Gulf Harbour on 12 March last year.The man was taken into custody this morning at an address in Orewa and is due to appear in the North Shore District Court tomorrow.This latest development brings the total number of people charged in the case to four. A 37-year-old man, a 36-year-old woman, and a 61-year-old woman are already before the courts, each facing the same charges.Acting Inspector Tim Williams of Waitematā CIB said Police are limited in the comments they can make while the case is before the court.Wang’s death has cast a long shadow over the Gulf Harbour community. For many Coasties, the shocking nature of the case has lingered in memory, especially given how close to home it unfolded. With a fourth person now charged, residents will be watching closely as the case continues through the justice system.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

Your weekend weather at a glance.Coasties, here’s what the next four days have in store:Friday, 23/5Mostly cloudy. Light Sou'West winds.High: 18Low: 9Saturday, 24/5Partly cloudy. Breezy East to Nor'East winds.High: 18Low: 13Sunday, 25/5A mix of sun and cloud. Fairly breezy North to Nor'East winds.High: 19Low: 14Monday, 26/5Rain. Fairly breezy Northerly winds.High: 19Low: 15Looking for more weather details?Check out our full Weather & Travel section in the Hibiscus Coast App for:🌊 Tide information🌬️ Wind conditions🌊 Wave updates🌞 UV levels🏖️ Safe swimming areasand much more.Everything you need is inside the Hibiscus Coast App – anytime, anywhere!

If you spot the Sky Tower glowing red and yellow this Saturday night, here’s why: over 1,100 firefighters from across New Zealand, Australia and Canada—including our own teams from Manly, Silverdale and Puhoi—will have just climbed all 1,103 stairs to the top.The 2025 Firefighter Sky Tower Challenge kicks off at 7:30 AM this Saturday, 24 May, and runs until 15:30.Now in its 21st year, it’s become a powerful show of strength and solidarity—raising funds and awareness for Leukaemia & Blood Cancer NZ.Firefighters will be suiting up in full gear (that’s an extra 25kg!) and climbing in groups of 30, every 15 minutes.It’s no small feat, and this year’s turnout is a record-breaker: 270 brigades and a fundraising goal of more than $1.8 million.For comparison, the very first challenge in 2005 raised $17,500.Local volunteers taking part include some familiar faces from our Coast stations, and every dollar raised helps fund patient support services, research, and advocacy through LBC.For Coasties wanting to cheer them on, the event will be livestreamed on YouTube—just search for “Firefighter Sky Tower Challenge 2025.”Or, if you’re in the city, you might even catch a glimpse of the action at the base.It’s an inspiring day that blends community spirit, determination, and a great cause—one step at a time.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

Job listings across New Zealand nudged up 1% in April, marking the second month of consecutive growth and signalling early signs of stability in the job market, according to SEEK’s latest Employment Report.The national rise was helped along by growth in key regions like Auckland (3%) and Waikato (4%).That’s especially relevant for Coasties commuting into the city or looking for roles that are increasingly offering hybrid options.One industry standout was Retail & Consumer Products, with a 10% month-on-month jump.Another was Information & Communication Technology, which saw a 7% boost, continuing a slow but steady rebound from pandemic-era lows.SEEK’s Country Manager Rob Clark described the uptick as “modest but notable,” reflecting signs of returning business confidence—particularly in skilled sectors like design, architecture, and tech.For those job-hunting on the Coast or eyeing a career shift, it’s worth noting that while job ads are still down 10% year-on-year, this is the slowest rate of decline since 2022.SEEK says the employment market may be entering a more stable phase after nearly two years of downward trends.Locally, any signs of hiring growth—especially in Auckland—are welcomed by Hibiscus Coast residents, many of whom juggle long commutes or remote work arrangements.Sectors like retail and tech often feed into our regional economy through part-time, flexible, and remote roles.However, the report also highlighted a 3% dip in applications per job, possibly due to increased listings giving jobseekers more choice.Healthcare, medical, and engineering sectors were among those that saw ongoing declines, with healthcare job ads down 3% in April and 20% year-on-year.As the market steadies, Coasties watching job boards might feel cautiously optimistic.Whether you're job-hunting, considering a return to work, or just keeping tabs on local trends, this month’s data suggests we’re not out of the woods—but we’re on firmer ground than we’ve been in some time.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

Auckland Council is making big changes behind the scenes to do more with less—and the impact could be felt right across the Coast.As part of its Long-term Plan 2024–2034, the council has launched a Group Shared Services initiative aimed at improving efficiency, cutting costs, and delivering better customer service across all departments and council-controlled organisations.At May’s Revenue, Expenditure and Value Committee, chair Desley Simpson highlighted the significance of this fresh approach.“We’re seeing technology and services that are smart for the council business at all levels—benefiting our ratepayers, delivering better customer service and building efficiency,” she said.So far, the changes are already paying off:Nearly $18 million saved over 10 years by renegotiating major contracts$32 million in economic benefits from new aerial imagery techShared IT systems saving $270,000 across Watercare and Ports of AucklandNew in-house tools like Vote Aucklanders built quicker and cheaperGroup Shared Services director Richard Jarrett said the team is focused on spotting everyday opportunities to add value.“In each case, we challenge ourselves on how we can deliver differently and better than before,” he said.While it might sound like back-office stuff, it matters for us here on the Coast too.These efficiencies help keep rates from rising more than they have to, speed up council services, and stretch every dollar further—whether it’s getting potholes fixed, permits processed, or local projects off the ground.And with tools like GIS mapping and flood recovery data analysis now being developed in-house, there's a clear push to become less reliant on expensive third-party providers and more responsive to what Aucklanders—Coasties included—actually need.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

After 145 years in business, Auckland department store Smith & Caughey's has announced it will close on 31 July.In a statement posted to social media, Smith & Caughey's said 98 staff would be made redundant when the Queen Street retail and online stores close.Smith & Caughey's closed its Newmarket store last year and reduced its CBD store to a single-floor format due to financial difficulties.The company cited increased competition from new shopping malls, continued economic uncertainty and low consumer confidence and spending power has contributed to their closure.Smith & Caughey's also said many city office workers were continuing to work from home, post-Covid.They said the city centre has also faced significant disruption and change in the form of ongoing roadworks and the slow progress of CRL causing traffic congestion.Smith & Caughey's were loved for their Christmas window displays. Photo: Supplied / Smith and Caughey'sThe company also said a large decline in foot traffic on Queen Street and an increase in parking costs had caused an impact, forcing the "heartbreaking" closure of the entire business."We are acutely aware that this has been a difficult and uncertain time for our staff and today's announcement is a deeply emotional one for all the team, our suppliers and our loyal customers," acting chief executive Matt Harray said."Our intention has always been to address the business challenges so that Smith & Caughey's can continue. Every attempt has been made to achieve this and every feasible option investigated, no stone left unturned."However, it's sadly clear it is no longer viable for us to keep the doors open."The online store will close on 30 May.

If you rely on Google to bring people to your website, there’s a new twist in the story.Google’s fresh “AI Mode” is changing the way people search—and it might mean fewer clicks for your business.Unveiled at Google I/O, AI Mode is a chatbot-style upgrade powered by Gemini 2.5.It gives people direct answers without needing them to click through to a website.Think fast, chatty summaries pulled from multiple sources—sometimes skipping your site entirely.So what does that mean for local businesses like yours?For starters, even if your business ranks high on Google, you could still see less traffic.AI Mode prefers to answer right there in the search window.Fewer clicks, fewer visits.That’s why it’s more important than ever to build your own visibility.Here’s what you can do now:Double down on owned platforms – Whether it’s your email list or the Hibiscus Coast App, channels you control are key. That’s where you won’t get lost in the algorithm shuffle.Update your Google Business Profile – This is one place Google still pulls info from. Add fresh photos, double-check your hours, reply to reviews, and use every feature.Go visual – With “Search Live,” people are using their cameras and voice to search. If your business isn’t represented in photos or short videos, you’re missing out.Answer common questions – Write in a conversational tone on your website and app. AI Mode prefers content that mimics real conversation and directly answers questions.Be hyper-local – Talk about things specific to the Hibiscus Coast. If someone searches “best sushi near Stanmore Bay,” make sure your content has that exact phrase.This shift is huge—but not all bad news.It’s a strong reminder to focus on platforms where you have direct access to your customers.And if you're advertising on the Hibiscus Coast App? You’re already a step ahead.Now’s the time to check your digital presence—and make sure you’re not left behind as the internet evolves.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

When it’s done right, a restructure can set your business up for smoother operations and long-term growth.But when it’s handled badly?You could end up with legal headaches and staff morale issues—something no Hibiscus Coast business wants to deal with.An insightful breakdown from Employment Relations Consultant Lisa Oakley outlines the many ways restructuring can go sideways, even when your intentions are good.And given how many small to medium-sized businesses operate here on the Coast, her advice couldn’t be more relevant.The biggest misstep?Rushing into change without a clear organisational design.As Lisa explains, structure should always follow strategy—yet many restructures are launched before anyone’s stopped to ask, “What problem are we solving?”Whether it’s reducing costs, cutting duplication, or boosting communication, you’ll need solid evidence to back up your plan.Timelines are another trap.“Ambitious” schedules often skip over the time needed for proper consultation and feedback.That’s risky—especially when Coasties know their rights.A rushed restructure can leave businesses vulnerable to personal grievances, even if the business case is sound.Then there’s the human side.Change makes people emotional—sometimes even those not directly affected.Good communication is key. So is getting your selection criteria and position descriptions watertight.The devil really is in the detail.Lisa also warns against the misuse of restructuring to deal with underperforming staff.If you're disestablishing roles only to rehire into near-identical ones, expect trouble.It’s a red flag for unjustified dismissal claims—and Coast employers need to be especially cautious given how tight-knit our business community is.One smart piece of advice?Consider a s149 Settlement. It’s a formal, legally binding agreement signed off by a mediator—and it can protect your business from future disputes.If you're navigating change or planning a restructure, Lisa is running a workshop titled Restructuring Misconceptions and Unintended Consequences at the EMA in Auckland on 28 May.It's a chance to learn from real-world examples and avoid mistakes that could cost you time, money, and peace of mind.Restructuring isn’t something to fear—but it is something to plan properly.For Coast businesses doing it right, the results can be transformative.But without the right process, it’s a recipe for disruption. And in a community like ours, reputation matters.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]