If you’re stocking up on Easter eggs for the kids in your supermarket shopping this weekend, you can expect them to cost a little more than they might have in years past.Rising cocoa prices have put pressure on the price of chocolate, and that’s flowing through to the sort that can be delivered by the Easter Bunny, too.In 2012, a Cadbury supermarket egg with two chocolate bars was selling for $13.99, or $10.99 or special.In 2016, the same eggs were cheaper – selling for $9.99.In 2022, the normal price was displayed at $12.90 but eggs could be found at $9 on special.A 325g pack of Cadbury marshmallow eggs was $9.90 in 2022, or $6.50 on special.Now, a 325g bag of marshmallow eggs is selling for $12 or $8 on special at Woolworths.General food inflation would normally have pushed the price up to about $7.50 over that period of time.Cadbury eggs seem to have changed, to include mini eggs rather than chocolate bars.These are retailing for $9.90 at Countdown, down from $15, and a pineapple lumps egg is selling for $12.Infometrics chief executive Brad Olsen said chocolate prices were higher than a year ago.Stats NZ data showed a block of chocolate had increased in price by 10 percent, to an average $5.72 in February.He said that would probably underestimate the amount that some people were paying for chocolate.He said cocoa prices had tripled since 2020.“Rising chocolate prices are due to lower cocoa supply from major producing countries in Africa, and the World Bank Commodity Price Index shows cocoa prices sitting three times higher in March 2025 than five years ago, with prices the last two months easing back slightly off record highs.”He said, if New Zealand chocolate prices had tracked international cocoa prices, a block of chocolate would be selling for more like $15 to $18.“The fact that domestic chocolate prices have been increasing, but not at the same intense rate as international cocoa prices, shows that higher spot prices for commodities doesn’t immediately hit shelf prices, at least not for chocolate.“Unlike for something like fuel, usually cocoa supply agreements will be locked in at a certain price for a period, meaning higher prices from lower cocoa production might take longer to hit shelf chocolate prices. It also suggests that chocolate prices this Easter could push higher.“Infometrics senior economist Brad Olsen.Supplied / James Gilberd PhotospaceAt Kiwibank, economist Sabrina Delgado agreed it was a supply problem.“Climate-related production shortfalls, tangled-up supply chains, and increased demand have all played a role in this bitter not sweet situation,” she said.“According to the International Cocoa Organization, the global cocoa deficit for the 2023/2024 season was estimated at a hefty 440,000 tonnes. And while their February forecast for 2024/2025 predicts a turnaround—a surplus of about 142,000 tonnes—prices have yet to meaningfully follow suit.”She said cocoa futures were still well above historical levels.“At the end of 2024, futures contracts for cocoa beans peaked near $12,000 per metric ton. More recently, they’ve cooled to around $8,500—but that’s still nearly triple the $3000 price tag from just two years ago, and miles above the $2600 average we’ve seen since 2008.“And it doesn’t help that manufacturers also tend to buy well in advance, so even if and when prices drop, it could take a while before those savings show up in the chocolate aisle.”

The Blues will field a mostly unchanged line-up this Saturday when they take on Moana Pasifika at Eden Park in Round 9 of Super Rugby Pacific. Kickoff is set for 16:35.The match is the first in an exciting double-header, with the Blues women facing Matatū in the Super Rugby Aupiki final at 19:05.Hooker Ricky Riccitelli returns from injury, replacing Kurt Eklund in the starting side, while Angus Ta’avao comes in for Marcel Renata, who’s sidelined with a calf strain.It will be a special evening for second five AJ Lam, who is set to earn his 50th Super Rugby cap.Coming off a tough win over the Hurricanes, the Blues are hoping to keep momentum on their side.“Moana is a big game for us,” said head coach Vern Cotter.“Last week’s win was a real team effort… we’re looking forward to the challenge on Saturday in front of our home fans.”Saturday’s game day will also feature a free Pacific Festival on the Eden Park Outer Oval from 10am to 3pmCoasties heading into the city can expect food trucks, community stalls, live performances and plenty of family fun before the rugby kicks off.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

Southbound lanes on State Highway 1 between the Silverdale interchange and Oteha Valley Road will be restricted during the day on Wednesday 16 April from 11am to 7pm, and Thursday 17 April from 11am to 3pm.The work is part of scheduled highway maintenance expected to continue through to June 2025.While traffic will still be able to travel southbound at all times, Coasties are advised to expect delays, slow down, and follow all traffic management instructions.Ramp closures and lane restrictions may begin before the main closure times. All work is weather dependent and may shift if conditions change.You may wish to allow extra time when travelling during the affected hours.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

Orewa Library is relocating back to its newly refurbished home at 12 Moana Avenue and will be closed for two weeks from Monday 5 May to Sunday 18 May.During the closure, Coasties won’t be able to collect holds or return items at Orewa Library. However, returns can still be made at Whangaparāoa Library throughout the relocation period.Payments with invoices can also be made at NZ Post shops.The doors to the refreshed Orewa Library will officially reopen on Monday 19 May. Locals can look forward to enjoying the upgraded space and services designed to better serve the community.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

Looking for plans? Explore events happening soon on the Hibiscus Coast and start planning your next activity!Adoption Month Pat & ChatSat April 12More detailsWhangaparaoa Repair CafeSun April 13More detailsRoadshow Experience UnleashedThu April 17More detailsWant to see more events? Explore everything happening in our community on the Hibiscus Coast App.Have an event to share?Promote it for Free - click here!

Frustrated commuters were left stranded yesterday morning when the 7:30 ferry service from Auckland to Gulf Harbour was abruptly diverted to Half Moon Bay.The disruption—without advance warning—meant many Coasties faced unexpected delays, with some reporting commutes of over two hours to reach work.The reason for the diversion has not yet been officially confirmed by Auckland Transport or ferry operator Fullers360.Understandably, the mood online was tense.Social media channels lit up with comments from affected passengers, many of whom are now calling for stronger representation and action.“When will this ever end?” one commuter wrote, echoing the general sentiment.Others mentioned picketing or launching a coordinated message campaign to make their voices heard.This isn’t the first time peak-time services have been cancelled or disrupted with little notice.Locals say the pattern is causing serious strain on daily life—especially for those who rely on the ferry to get to and from work.Calls are growing louder for a reliable, long-term solution.Many feel it’s no longer enough to wait for improvements “down the track.”Coasties are asking for transparency, consistency, and above all—respect for their time.Whether that comes from Auckland Transport, Fullers360, or elected leaders, remains to be seen.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, 11/4 Mostly cloudy. Fairly breezy Easterly winds.High: 20Low: 14Saturday, 12/4A mix of sun and cloud. Fairly breezy South to Sou'East winds.High: 21Low: 14Sunday, 13/4Partly cloudy. Fairly breezy Easterly winds.High: 21Low: 15Monday, 14/4A mix of sun and cloud. Breezy Sou'East winds.High: 21Low: 13Looking for more details?Check out our full Weather & Travel section in the Hibiscus Coast App for:🌊 Tide information🌬️ Wind conditions🌊 Wave updates🌞 UV levels🏖️ Safe swimming areasand much more.Everything you need is inside the Hibiscus Coast App – anytime, anywhere!

After more than a decade of planning, a new purpose-built Surf Life Saving Community Hub is nearly ready to take shape at Ōrewa Reserve.The two-level, 2,000m² facility will serve not only as the new home for Ōrewa Surf Life Saving but as a modern, multi-use space for Coasties to gather, connect, and stay safe at the beach.All consents are now in place, a construction company has been appointed, and $5 million in cornerstone funding has been secured from Auckland Council, Surf Life Saving NZ, and Foundation North.Local business G.J. Gardner Homes Rodney East has also led a strong fundraising effort—but more support is still needed to start construction by March 2026.If you haven’t yet seen the fabulous walkthrough video on YouTube, now’s the perfect time.Key naming rights and sponsorship opportunities remain open, including for the lifesaving operations building and first aid room.Once built, the Hub will offer enhanced beach safety, better access to emergency services, and flexible space for community use, events, and meetings.However, during construction, access to parts of the Surf Club Reserve will be limited.The new building’s location—closer to the road—will also change the layout of green spaces and parking within the reserve.To learn more or offer support, visit orewasurflifesavingcommunityhub.co.nz, or contact Andrea May on 021 170 1838.Together, the community can make this long-envisioned facility a reality.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

After a week of stormy skies, the sun made a timely appearance on Saturday — just in time for the very first Silverdale Pioneer Festival. Held in the heart of Silverdale Village and Pioneer Village, the event drew a cheerful crowd of more than 4,000 people and delivered a lively mix of history, music, food, and local connection.Proudly sponsored by Barfoot & Thompson and hosted by the Silverdale Business Association, the festival brought new energy to a much-loved part of the Coast. Families gathered, kids played, and neighbours reconnected among a colourful spread of vintage vehicles, live music, and market stalls.With over 60 local stallholders offering everything from handcrafted skincare to award-winning chocolate, there was plenty to explore. Popular vendors included Grown Up Donuts, Mosarizu, and the classic Mitre 10 sausage sizzle — all helping to keep bellies full and smiles wide throughout the day.Community pride was at the heart of the festival. One of the many highlights was a community raffle, packed with prizes generously donated by local businesses and sponsors.The support of local businesses was on full display, with fun and thoughtful activations across the venue. Auckland Adventure Park ran a popular “Guess the Number” game and gave away free luge ride vouchers. Director Rohini said, “It was such a great day — awesome vibe, fantastic turnout, and everything was so well organized. It’s always great connecting with the local community and fellow businesses in such a vibrant and positive setting. Looking forward to the next one already!”Westpac, one of the day’s major sponsors, handed out giveaways and promoted its First Home Buyer’s seminar at the Silverdale branch. ENH Windows, Hibiscus Funeral Services, Silverdale Mall, and the Hibiscus Coast App were also among the key supporters who helped bring the day to life.Local feedback was overwhelmingly positive. “We felt so welcome — it’s the best community event we’ve been to in ages,” said one stallholder. Another festivalgoer added, “Our kids had an absolute blast! We can’t wait for the next one.”The Silverdale Business Association, who led the event, said the goal was to honour local heritage while celebrating today’s makers, creatives, and service providers.Festival photos and highlights are available on the Silverdale Pioneer Festival website and Facebook page. With such strong community spirit on show, the team is already looking ahead to 2026 — and they’re keen to hear your feedback and ideas.Scroll down to see a selection of festival photos below.A special thank you to Vanessa Li from Silverdale Business for her help in bringing this story and images together.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

Rental affordability for seniors must become a national priority, says Dr Claire Dale, a University of Auckland researcher.Her call follows troubling data: in 2021, 18% of Kiwis aged over 65 were living in poor-quality or overcrowded homes.By 2047, 40% of older New Zealanders are expected to be renters—more than double today’s figure.Currently, the average superannuation of $522 per week doesn’t even cover the median rent for a small home, which sits at $550.“The numbers don’t add up,” says Dr Dale.She’s calling for urgent reform of the accommodation supplement, a government payment for low-income renters.Only 5% of those receiving superannuation currently qualify, largely due to a strict and outdated asset cap.The cap hasn’t changed in 30 years—$8,100 for a single person means even a modest savings buffer disqualifies someone from support.\Dr Dale proposes lifting that limit to $16,000 and softening the cut-off to allow partial entitlements above the threshold.She’s also calling for local councils to once again access the government’s income-related rent subsidy.This would help councils offer affordable, stable housing to older residents—something they historically did well, but can no longer afford to continue without support.New Zealand has the lowest public housing rate in the OECD, and councils currently lack the funding to fill that gap.With retirement policy under review this year, and submissions open until 30 June, Claire Dale says now is the time for practical, affordable changes that would make a real difference to seniors—especially those renting.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

The Ministry of Business, Innovation & Employment (MBIE) is urging Coasties to check their homes for a recalled bathroom heater model that could pose a serious fire risk.The warning centres on Serene S2068 heaters, which were recalled last year due to a known defect that can cause fires.Despite the compulsory recall and a prohibition on use, around 28,000 of these heaters are still believed to be in homes across the country.MBIE is now stepping up efforts to raise awareness ahead of the colder months.“Don’t let the next fire be in your home,” says MBIE spokesman Ian Caplin.“If you find a Serene S2068 Heater, turn it off, don’t use it, and contact the supplier it was bought from.”So far, around 16,000 heaters have been safely removed or returned, thanks to the work of electricians and suppliers.However, with two fires already linked to these heaters over the Christmas period, officials fear the risk will grow as the weather cools and heaters are used more frequently.MBIE has been working alongside Master Electricians and the Insurance Council to share recall information.Caplin warns that home insurance may not cover fire damage from these heaters if the recall advice hasn’t been followed.The recall applies specifically to the Serene S2068 model. Coasties are encouraged to check bathrooms in their homes, rentals, and even holiday stays.For details on how to identify and return a recalled heater, visit: consumerprotection.govt.nz – Serene Heater RecallKnow something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

Coasties who love Ōrewa Beach are being invited to help shape its future.From now until Friday 9 May 2025, Auckland Council is asking for community feedback on four concept designs for Ōrewa Reserve.Each option aims to restore the dunes and improve beach access—while also protecting the coastline from rising sea levels and erosion.This follows the ongoing seawall project at the northern end of the beach, where a shared path is being built between Marine View and Kohu Street. The council says without the seawall, high tide would make walking access impossible in that area.But building seawalls is expensive and complex—the Ōrewa project required a ruling from the Environment Court. So, council staff are now looking at more natural, long-term approaches for other parts of the beach.Restoring dunes at Ōrewa Reserve would keep dry sand available year-round and create a buffer against erosion.However, it would mean relocating some existing facilities at the reserve.Locals can view the four concept designs online, all of which include:Dune restorationImproved beach accessNew beachfront toilets and changing rooms north of the future surf clubCouncil wants to know:Which concept option you preferHow often you visit the reserveWhich features matter most to youAny other thoughts on the plansTo have your say, fill in the online feedback form before 9 May 2025.Your responses will be shared with the Hibiscus and Bays Local Board to help guide the next steps.This is a chance to influence how one of our most-loved local spaces is protected and enjoyed into the future.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

New Zealand is set to double its defence spending over the next eight years, with a $12 billion investment announced this week to modernise and strengthen the New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF).$9 billion in new funding includedPlan covers 2025–2028, with 15-year outlookFocus on combat capability, tech innovation, and personnel supportPrime Minister Christopher Luxon says rising global tensions have pushed New Zealand to step up its role internationally—and that the country’s current defence investment has fallen behind.“This blueprint has been designed with a 15-year horizon but deliberately focuses on critical investments needed in the next four years,” Luxon said. “This is the floor, not the ceiling, of funding for our Defence Force.”The Defence Capability Plan will raise NZ’s defence spend from just over 1% of GDP to over 2% by 2032. It includes enhancements to strike capabilities, maritime surveillance, and cyber security, as well as upgrades to housing, digital infrastructure, and intelligence services.Defence Minister Judith Collins acknowledged the sacrifices made by NZDF personnel, including extended domestic deployments during Covid, which led to the loss of many mid-career staff.“This plan allows us to rebuild that hollowed-out middle,” she said. “It gets our NZDF out of the intensive care unit and growing where we need it to.”Key features of the plan include:New long-range remotely piloted aircraftReplacement of the ageing Boeing 757 fleetUncrewed surveillance vessels and upgraded anti-tank systemsFrigate and maritime helicopter upgradesModernised accommodation and base infrastructureTech and logistics upgrades to improve resilienceThe Government will review the Defence Capability Plan every two years to ensure it remains responsive to global and regional developments.With renewed investment and long-term opportunities ahead, now could be a great time for Coasties to consider a future career in the New Zealand Defence Force.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

The latest Auckland Council data paints a mixed picture of the region’s economy, with steady gains in housing activity but a dip in consumer confidence.Median house prices for February 2025 held steady at NZD 1.01 million.This matches 2016 levels (adjusted for inflation) and is 5% lower than a year ago.House sales have risen for five straight months, with 22,027 homes sold in the year to February—up 20% from the 2023 low.Rental costs in Auckland average $698 per week in January.This is higher than recent months but close to where they were one and two years ago.Rents outside Auckland reached a record high of $ 652, driven by seasonal demand.Building consent numbers are climbing slightly.In the year to February 2025, 13,773 new homes were consented—still 37% below the 2022 peak but tracking just above mid-2024 levels.Non-residential consents, however, continued to fall, with values down 24% year-on-year.Meanwhile, Auckland seaports saw a 4% drop in import values compared to last year, although volumes remain well above the Covid-era low.Imports totalled NZD 29.9 billion for the year to February 2025.Consumer confidence has dipped.The Westpac McDermott Miller Index measured 91.3 for the March quarter—mid-range for the post-Covid period, but lower than any year from 2009 to 2019.Coasties keeping an eye on the wider economy may find comfort in the housing sector’s quiet rebound, though the mood on the ground remains cautious.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

Fresh Coast Jobs for Fresh Starts! Check out this week’s top picks for local roles—and share with a mate who’s looking!The ​Hibiscus Coast App​Position: Sales Role – Help Coast Businesses GrowLocation: Hibiscus Coast (Remote/Flexible)Commission-only role earning $2K–$6K+/month, with flexible hours and warm leadsSell digital advertising on a trusted local platform with full training and supportView the full listing & applyBunningsPosition: Customer Service Team MemberLocation: SilverdaleTeam discounts, paid parental leave, and 100+ staff perks across top brandsSupportive team environment with career growth across retail, trade, and leadershipView the full listing & applyCareer Tip of the weekDon’t just list responsibilities on your CV—focus on achievements. Use numbers, outcomes, or timeframes to show the impact you made in each role.Help a friend discover their next career move—share these opportunities with your network today!Need to hire fast? Get noticed locally.Reach thousands on the Coast for $97 + GST.Post your job today.Explore more local job openings on our jobs page.

A man has died after being found unresponsive in the water near Red Beach early Monday morning.At 7:27am, emergency services received a report of an overturned outrigger off the coast. Police responded quickly, deploying ground staff and the Eagle helicopter to search the area.The man was located unresponsive in the water and brought to shore by members of the public, who moved him to nearby rocks. He was then airlifted to Stanmore Bay by the Auckland Westpac Rescue Helicopter.Sadly, despite their efforts, the man was pronounced dead.Police are now working to recover the outrigger and are carrying out enquiries on behalf of the Coroner to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

More than half of Kiwi workers say they’d choose a different career if they had the chance, according to new research from employment marketplace SEEK. The findings, released in the Evolving Working Life Report, show 54% of New Zealanders are experiencing some form of career regret—particularly among Millennials and Gen Z.The top reason? Not earning enough. Half of those surveyed cited financial dissatisfaction, followed by changing interests (36%) and unfulfilling work (24%). Despite this, only 6% are actively exploring a career change, with most held back by money concerns and fears that it’s too late to switch paths.Nearly 3 in 5 Kiwis believe they’ll be working longer than expected—many into their 70s. Coasties might not be surprised, with rising living costs and shifting retirement expectations affecting families right here on the Hibiscus Coast.SEEK’s Rob Clark says the data paints a clear picture: “Money is weighing heavily on the minds of New Zealand workers… but a career change is possible at any stage of life.”Even so, changing careers is easier said than done. Among those feeling stuck, 40% worry it’s too late, while a third say they lack the qualifications to move on. One in four admitted they don’t know where to begin.Still, it’s not all bleak. A majority feel hopeful (59%) and optimistic (52%) about the future, with many believing their current roles will remain relevant in the next decade.SEEK’s career coach Leah Lambart encourages a flexible mindset: “If you’re going to be working for longer, it’s even more important to keep an open mind about evolving your career.”The research, conducted by Nature between October 2024 and February 2025, surveyed 1,045 working-age New Zealanders across industries and locations.Whether you’re on the Coast or across the country, the message is clear—there’s still time to reshape your working life.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

Building on the Hibiscus Coast could soon get simpler and cheaper, thanks to sweeping changes announced by the Government this week.Building and Construction Minister Chris Penk revealed a suite of reforms designed to reduce delays, lower construction costs, and support tradies in getting the job done.Key changes include:Faster land acquisition: Landowners who agree to sell early for public projects—like roads or hospitals—could receive up to NZD$100,000 in incentive payments.Bigger granny flats without consent: The maximum size for granny flats that can be built without a resource consent is increasing from 60 to 70 square metres.Crackdown on cowboy builders: New waterproofing licences for bathroom work, stronger disciplinary powers, and a better complaints process aim to improve trust in the trade.Easier access to building materials: A new law will allow faster approval for high-quality overseas products. Up to 250,000 new building products are expected to enter the market this year.The Government expects the changes will lead to around 13,000 more granny flats being built nationwide over the next decade—offering more affordable, flexible housing options for families.These updates are part of a broader plan to simplify the building consent system and help ease housing pressures nationwide.

With all the headlines about US tariffs and market swings, many Coasties might be wondering what to do about their KiwiSaver or share investments.According to advice from investing platform Sharesies, the best move right now might be to stay calm and focus on the long term.Recent falls in the S&P 500—a key measure of the US share market—have been triggered by fears around global trade tensions. The Trump administration’s announcement of new tariffs has sparked concerns about inflation and the possibility of a trade war, both of which tend to spook markets.While it can be unsettling to see portfolios or KiwiSaver balances dip, Sharesies says this kind of volatility isn’t unusual. Since the 1980s, the S&P 500 has experienced annual corrections of more than 5%, yet its average annual return since 1928 still sits above 10%.For those feeling nervous, now’s a good time to review your investment strategy. Are you diversified across industries and countries? Are you invested in line with your time horizon—especially if you're nearing retirement or a first home deposit?Sharesies also reminds investors that KiwiSaver is designed for the long haul. Market dips are part of the journey, especially for those in growth or aggressive funds.If your investment plan made sense before the downturn, it may still make sense now. Continuing with strategies like dollar-cost averaging—investing consistently over time—can help balance out the highs and lows.And importantly, you should consider seeking independent legal, financial, or tax advice to ensure any investment decisions are right for your personal goals and situation.