A groundbreaking new study co-led by researchers from the University of Auckland and Yale has found something simple yet powerful—singing to your baby really does lift their spirits.Over four weeks, Kiwi and US parents took part in a randomised controlled trial through the Music Lab, a joint research initiative based in Auckland and the US.The results?Regular singing at home led to happier babies.In fact, babies whose parents sang frequently were rated as being in better moods than those in the control group.And here’s the beautiful part—parents weren’t told when to sing, yet many instinctively reached for music during fussy moments.“They intuitively used music to manage their infants’ emotions,” said Auckland-based researcher Dr Samuel Mehr, who led the study.“It’s one of those natural, cross-cultural behaviours that turns out to have real emotional benefits.”Dr Samuel Mehr.The study didn’t show a change in caregivers’ moods over the short term, but the researchers believe the flow-on effects could be significant.“A calmer, happier baby changes the tone of the whole household,” says Mehr.Closer to home, it’s an encouraging reminder for Coasties raising little ones.Whether it’s lullabies at bedtime or singing along in the car, the act of singing can become a daily mood-booster—not just for baby, but for family life in general.With so many young families on the Hibiscus Coast, this low-cost, feel-good activity could easily become part of the local parenting toolkit.The Music Lab team is now expanding their research.Their follow-up project, Together We Grow, will explore how singing affects sleep, stress levels, and even symptoms of postnatal depression over a longer eight-month period.They’re currently inviting more families to take part.Previous work by the same team has shown that lullabies are recognised across cultures—even in languages people don’t speak—suggesting a universal human connection to infant-directed song.As Mehr puts it, “When parents sing lullabies, they’re sending a powerful message: ‘I’m here, I hear you, and you’re safe.’”Apparently, babies really are listening.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!Waste Management NZPosition: Environmental AnalystLocation: Dairy FlatKey role in tracking and reporting environmental performance across national sitesFocus on emissions reduction, compliance, and sustainability initiativesView the full listing & applyHibiscus Coast AppPosition: Local Sales ConsultantLocation: Red BeachFlexible, remote role with warm leads and strong local supportHelp Coasties businesses grow while earning commissionView the full listing & applyCareer Tip of the Week:Don’t underestimate the power of your professional summary—it’s your elevator pitch. Use it to clearly state who you are, what you bring, and the value you offer in just 3–4 impactful lines at the top of your CV.Help a friend discover their next career move—share these opportunities with your network today!Need to hire fast? Reach thousands of Coasties for $97 + GST. Post your job today.

You might’ve seen him around the Coast—young, focused, and probably heading off with a helmet in hand.Logan Rowell’s racing journey started early, and it’s only grown faster with time.“Dad’s been a motorbike guy since before I was born,” Logan says.That passion quickly passed down.By the time he was five or six, Logan was riding little dirt bikes—and that’s where it all began.He spent much of his childhood around dirt bikes, with his dad also following MotoGP and World Superbikes closely.“That sort of piqued my interest more than dirt bikes,” Logan explains.The family didn’t even know road racing was an option here until they stumbled across a few guys at a motorcycle show.“We didn’t really know it was available in New Zealand,” he says.That unexpected discovery quickly became a path—and they’ve followed it ever since.Now 23, Logan has raced competitively for seven years and recently returned to the Supersport 600 class—stepping back in after a year off due to injury.“I broke my pelvis the last time I raced in this class,” he says.“That really set me back for a while.”He’s now representing KTM New Zealand and the Double Six Motorsport Race Team in national and local championships.His short-term goal?Win the Supersport 600 championship.Long-term?Move up to the 1000cc Superbike class and, if possible, race internationally with KTM.“They’ve provided me so much in my career… being able to just progressively move up the classes with them has been really beneficial.”That journey hasn’t just been powered by talent and grit—it’s also had strong backing from the Hibiscus Coast community.“One of them is Phil at MTF Finance in Silverdale. He’s helped me pretty much since the beginning.”Through his dad’s connections, Logan has partnered with several Coast-based businesses over the years.Alongside MTF, support has come from brands like Wet and Forget, TradeZone New Zealand, Eurobike Wholesale, and Chemz New Zealand.“It’s nice to feel the backing from where you’re from,” Logan says. “It just really motivates you to do better.”His proudest moment so far? That first podium.“It took me a real long time to get there,” he says.“It was just such an amazing release of emotion when I crossed the line.”Even better, he backed it up the next day with another.From starting in the back of a van with his dad to racing with national teams, Logan’s come a long way—and he’s not slowing down.“The sport has taught me so much—discipline, commitment, how to present myself,” he says.And for young Coasties thinking of giving it a go?“All you have to do is watch. You’ll feel it the moment you’re there.”Logan Rowell.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

The Government has introduced the Investment Boost initiative as part of Budget 2025.This new policy allows businesses to claim an immediate 20% tax deduction on the cost of eligible new assets.To qualify, assets must be new to New Zealand—either brand new or previously unused within the country.Eligible assets include assets such as commercial and industrial buildings, plant and machinery, equipment, and work vehicles.This does not apply to residential buildings and fixed-life intangible property (e.g. copyrights, trademarks, or land-use rights).This incentive applies to qualifying assets purchased on or after 22 May 2025, with deductions claimable in your income tax return for that income year.E.g. Buy a $80,000 vehicle on 31 March and claim an expense of $16,000 in that year plus normal depreciation.You may want to plan ahead as I expect a lot of purchases timed for March 2026 which could lead to stock shortages.The deduction reduces the cost price for calculating depreciation.For example:If your business acquires a qualifying asset for $100,000:You may immediately deduct $20,000 under the Investment Boost.The remaining $80,000 is added to your depreciation schedule and depreciated as normal.This results in a front-loaded tax benefit, reducing taxable income earlier and improving after-tax cash flow.KiwiSaver Changes – Contribution Rates and Eligibility UpdatesSeveral key changes to KiwiSaver will affect both employers and employees:Contribution Rates Increasing:From 1 April 2026, the default employer and employee contribution rates will increase from 3% to 3.5%.From 1 April 2028, they will rise again to 4%.Employees may opt to remain at the 3% rate temporarily from 1 April 2026, with applications open from 1 February 2026.Expanded Eligibility:From 1 July 2025, 16- and 17-year-olds will be eligible for government KiwiSaver contributions.From 1 April 2026, employers will be required to contribute for enrolled employees aged 16 or 17.Full Budget 2025 details are available at: budget.govt.nzGovernment Contributions Adjusted:From 1 July 2025, the government contribution will reduce from 50 cents to 25 cents per dollar contributed, up to a maximum of $260.72 per year.Individuals earning over $180,000 per year will no longer qualify for the government KiwiSaver contribution.At David Hooper Chartered Accountants, we help local businesses make smart financial decisions—from asset planning to managing KiwiSaver obligations.Get in touch today at [email protected] or call 09 421 1635.

You might’ve heard the sniffles going around again—and yep, COVID-19 hasn’t packed its bags just yet.This past week, Auckland reported 93 new cases, part of a steady national rise with more than 900 cases recorded across New Zealand.Health experts are pointing to a new Omicron subvariant called NB.1.8.1, which is spreading more easily than earlier strains.It’s already the dominant version in China and Hong Kong, and while it hasn’t been labelled a “variant of concern,” it’s definitely on the radar.The World Health Organisation has tagged it as a “variant under monitoring,” which means it’s being tracked for any changes.For now, the good news is that NB.1.8.1 doesn’t seem to cause more severe illness.Symptoms look familiar—sore throat, cough, fever, runny nose, and fatigue are the main ones, though some people are also experiencing tummy troubles like nausea or diarrhoea.Most cases remain mild, and there's no marked rise in hospitalisations or deaths.There’s no specific vaccine for this subvariant yet, but doctors say your current immunity—either from past Omicron infection or vaccinations—should still help protect against the worst of it.So what does that mean for us Coasties?If you’ve got that back-of-the-throat scratchiness or a lingering cough, it might be worth popping a mask in your bag again.And if you’re feeling unwell, staying home could help keep others safe—especially those a bit more vulnerable.No need for panic, just a friendly reminder that the virus is still making the rounds.Keep the tissues close and look after yourself and your family.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

If you’ve noticed more RAV4s and compact SUVs zipping around the Coast lately, you're not alone. The Toyota RAV4 remains New Zealand’s top-selling vehicle for 2025 so far—and Coasties are right in step with the national trend favouring hybrids and compact SUVs.With an estimated 3,140 units sold year-to-date, the RAV4’s mix of petrol and hybrid options has helped it stay on top. Mitsubishi’s ASX and Outlander follow, showing strong demand for compact, practical options that still have enough space for beach gear, shopping runs, and family trips north.Kia’s Seltos and Stonic are also gaining traction, proving popular with younger buyers and urban commuters alike. Meanwhile, the Suzuki Swift remains the country’s most popular compact car, holding its own in a sea of SUVs.What’s especially striking is the rise in hybrid sales—now accounting for about 34% of all new vehicle purchases. EV sales have softened with the end of government incentives, but brands like Polestar and BYD are offering more choice in the electric space. The Polestar 2 is leading the EV segment in 2025, nudging out the BYD Atto 3 and Tesla’s declining Model Y and 3.Utes like the Ford Ranger and Toyota Hilux are still going strong in the commercial category but have slipped out of the top 10 overall for the first half of the year.For Coasties, these trends matter. Our lifestyle often blends city commutes with weekend getaways, and buyers want vehicles that handle both with comfort and efficiency. Hybrids fit that bill, balancing environmental concerns with practicality. And with rising fuel prices, the shift makes even more sense.As more Coast families and small businesses consider their next vehicle, it’s clear the market is moving toward smart, efficient options that don’t sacrifice utility—or style.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

Consumer sentiment has soured amid tariff-induced economic uncertainty and rising food prices.The ANZ-Roy Morgan Consumer Confidence Index fell 5 points fell in May to 92.9 - a reading below 100 means overall sentiment remains pessimistic.It comes after business confidence fell for the third month in a row.The fall in consumer sentiment erased gains from April.ANZ chief economist Sharon Zollner said it was the first consumer survey where most people answered after the start of "tariff noise"."That could be a factor," she said. "Also, we're experiencing quite high food price inflation at the moment and that tends to go down very badly with consumers."Perceptions about the outlook for the economy over the next 12 months fell 4 points to a net negative 20 percent - indicating most people thought the economy would see bad times financially.A net 10 percent of people felt it was a bad time to buy a major household item, a key indicator for the retail sector."While that did lift 1 point, it's still a long way from suggesting happy days for the retail sector," Zollner said.Other questions in the survey showed a net 12 percent expected to be better off in a year's time, down 11 points.Household inflation expectations were largely steady, only easing 0.1 percentage points to 4.6 percent."That's a lot higher than a couple of months ago, with the jump possibly caused by global tariff talk, though household inflation expectations can also be sensitive to food prices," Zollner said."Household inflation expectations don't have a tight correlation with actual inflation outcomes," Zollner said. "But the perception that inflation is going to be so high is likely to contribute to the sense of a cost of living crisis, potentially dampening spending, if anything."ANZ continued to expect the Reserve Bank to cut interest rates three more times this year, lowering the Official Cash Rate to 2.5 percent."Our best judgement is that the RBNZ will end up just shoring up the recovery because it's nothing flash at the moment," Zollner said.

Big news for our little learners—Budget 2025 includes a $39.9 million investment to ensure all Year 0 to 8 students across the country get access to hands-on science kits.That means every classroom, including those here on the Hibiscus Coast, will soon be equipped to bring science lessons to life.The funding, spread over four years, will support the development and delivery of curriculum-aligned kits packed with experiments and equipment tailored to each year level.Education Minister Erica Stanford says the move is designed to spark excitement in science and help students build strong foundations in STEAM—Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics.“We want students to love learning about science,” says Minister Stanford.“Hands-on learning improves critical thinking and understanding, and that’s key to student success.”Teachers won’t be left to figure it all out alone.Alongside the kits, they’ll receive professional development modules to help confidently deliver engaging and practical science lessons.The first kits are expected to roll out at the beginning of the 2026 school year, and bilingual resources—plus dedicated pūtaiao kits—will ensure all learners are catered for.So, what does this mean for Coasties?For our local schools—from Orewa to Red Beach, Gulf Harbour to Millwater—it’s a huge opportunity.Practical science kits can turn the classroom into a mini lab, where kids can test, explore, question, and create. It’s not just about textbooks—it’s about discovery.And that kind of learning can ignite lifelong curiosity.The Government sees this as more than just education—it’s a strategic move to support the country’s future talent pipeline in fields like biotech, clean energy and agritech, where Kiwi innovation is already making waves globally.With the world changing fast, this initiative helps ensure our Coastie kids grow up not only equipped for the future—but excited about shaping it.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.Mighty Ape’s Bumpy Start to 2025Read moreMilldale’s Next Village Hub BeginsRead moreCoast Jobs You Should Know AboutRead morePenlink Progress Along SH1 and CoastRead moreInside Africa Opens in SilverdaleRead 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.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

Coast vape retailers—take note.A big shake-up to vaping rules is landing next month, and there’ll be no wiggle room once it hits.From 17 June, Health New Zealand and the Ministry of Health are introducing strict new regulations aimed at curbing youth vaping. These include:A total ban on disposable vapesNo more vape ads in-store or in newslettersOnline retailers can't show product images or link to overseas pagesHefty fines for non-complianceSpecialist vape stores will also be barred from promoting products to their existing customers—a move that signals just how serious the Government is about limiting young people’s access and exposure to vaping.Dr Corina Grey, Director of Public Health, says enforcement will be swift and focused.“There’s no grace period,” she confirmed, adding that compliance officers will be visiting stores with these new rules top of mind.While some changes began rolling out in December—including increased fines and new buffer zones around early childhood centres—this next batch is the toughest yet.The new laws align vaping promotion more closely with the tight restrictions already placed on tobacco products.For Coasties, this will likely mean changes to how vape shops in places like Silverdale, Orewa and Whangaparāoa look and operate.Retailers may need to adjust window displays and signage, and some products could vanish entirely from shelves.Why it matters?Vaping among young people has skyrocketed in recent years, and the Coast is not immune.These changes aim to reset the balance—keeping support in place for those quitting smoking while making it harder for under-18s to pick up a vape in the first place.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

If you've noticed a flurry of activity between Warkworth and Te Hana on your travels lately, you're not imagining things. NZTA’s Northland Corridor team is charging ahead with planning and investigations for the next stage of Ara Tūhono – Warkworth to Whangārei.In their latest update, NZTA confirmed that letters have now gone out to landowners within the emerging preferred corridor. This is a big step in a huge project aiming to improve safety and resilience for everyone travelling north. For Coasties, the most immediate benefit will be better connections through the notoriously difficult Dome Valley section once the Warkworth to Te Hana stretch is complete.Work is progressing on multiple fronts. Site investigations—geotech, ecology, archaeology and more—are now underway to help refine the route. NZTA says access to some private properties will be required for these checks, but that doesn’t automatically mean a property will be affected long-term.Further north, design work is also happening between Te Hana and Whangārei as the emerging preferred corridor is narrowed down. A final route is expected to be announced around August or September this year, following NZTA Board approval.Many locals have asked why the Brynderwyn Hills alternative isn’t being built first—or why a tunnel isn’t the solution. NZTA says a tunnel, while technically possible, would be too expensive and take far longer to build. The geology is also tricky. Instead, the current plan is more practical, quicker to deliver, and comes with less environmental disruption.As for timing, the Warkworth to Te Hana section is already well advanced in its planning. That’s why construction will start there first, with other sections running in parallel in the background.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

Auckland’s housing pipeline stayed steady in March, with 1,535 new dwellings consented across the region—offering a snapshot of where the city’s growth is heading and what types of homes are taking shape.While houses made up just 29% of March’s consents, a full half were for townhouses, flats, or other attached dwellings—pointing to the continued rise of medium-density living. Apartments made up the remaining 21%. It’s a trend that reflects Auckland’s shift towards more compact, walkable urban spaces—especially near transport.Nearly all new dwellings (95%) consented in the last 12 months were inside the Rural Urban Boundary (RUB), with 29% falling within walking distance (1.5km) of the rapid transit network. That’s good news for Coasties who commute or care about sustainable transport access across the wider Auckland region.Just 24 of March’s consents were on Kāinga Ora or Tāmaki Regeneration Company land, highlighting a continuing need for more public housing developments.As for builds being wrapped up, 1,255 dwellings received Code Compliance Certificates (CCCs) in March, with over 16,300 completed in the year to March. That suggests a healthy pace of delivery—though still short of demand.Land development is also ticking along. In April, 507 new residential parcels under 5000m² were created, adding to the 14,714 new parcels carved out over the last year. These new titles help pave the way for future builds.Of interest to many Hibiscus Coast families and first-home buyers: the median Auckland house price for April was $1 million. Based on 1,957 sales, that figure shows a market holding relatively firm—despite broader economic uncertainties.The big picture? Housing activity is holding its ground. While we’re not seeing explosive growth, the steady stream of consents and completions means more homes are on their way. With many of them clustered near transport hubs and within existing urban zones, it’s a sign Auckland’s planning policies are kicking in.For Coasties keeping an eye on regional trends—or considering a move or build—it’s another piece of the puzzle when thinking about where and how Auckland grows next.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

It’s shaping up to be a milder, wetter winter across the Hibiscus Coast and upper North Island, according to NIWA’s seasonal outlook for June to August 2025.The region is expected to see above normal rainfall and warmer-than-usual temperatures, with a 65% chance of higher-than-average temperatures for Northland, Auckland, Waikato, and Bay of Plenty.Rainfall totals are most likely to be above normal (45% chance), and NIWA says we should expect occasional heavy rain events.Residual signs of La Niña are still lingering in the Pacific, and while international models predict a 70% chance of ENSO-neutral conditions over winter, La Niña-like patterns may still crop up occasionally.That means low pressure systems forming to our north could continue to bring moisture-rich air down over the Coast, increasing the risk of downpours.We’re also seeing higher than average sea surface temperatures around much of New Zealand, including marine heatwave conditions offshore.That warmth in the ocean adds extra fuel to rain-making systems and helps explain the higher-than-usual winter temperature forecast.For Coasties, this means fewer frosty mornings but a greater risk of sudden, heavy rainfall.It’s worth keeping gutters clear, checking stormwater drains, and staying alert to forecasts—especially during stormy weeks.Soil moisture and river flows across the North Island are expected to remain near normal, but localised flooding can still happen when intense bursts of rain hit already damp ground.While winter cold snaps and frosts aren’t off the table, they’ll be less frequent than usual.That might come as a relief to early risers and school-run parents—though gardeners and growers may need to adjust their plans for a warmer, wetter season ahead.As always, it’s a good idea to keep an eye on updates and alerts throughout winter.Our coastal weather can turn quickly, and with a few big lows predicted, staying informed can make all the difference.Watch NIWA’s Chris Brandolino as he breaks down what Kiwis can expect over the next three months.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

If you’re a dog owner on the Hibiscus Coast, it’s time to fetch that red tag—dog registration for the 2025/26 year is open now, and there’s a good reason to sort it before 1 August.Registering your dog early saves you money and avoids late fees.From 1 August, standard fees jump up by as much as $41, depending on your dog’s status.For example, a de-sexed dog registered on time costs $127.Miss the deadline? That jumps to $166.You’ll be getting a reminder from Auckland Council in mid-June—by email, text, or post—with your dog’s reference number.Once you’ve paid online via myAUCKLAND, a bold red tag will be sent out within 10 working days.This year’s red tag makes it easy to spot which dogs are registered and protected.For local animal officers—and even fellow Coasties—it’s a quick visual cue that your pet is compliant and cared for.The money collected from registration helps fund vital services like:reuniting lost dogs with their familiesmaintaining dog sheltersresponding to dog attacks and complaintsrunning safety education in schools and public areasPlus, $1 from every registered dog this year goes towards a targeted de-sexing programme to help reduce unwanted litters in high-risk areas.It’s a small gesture that could make a big difference across Auckland.If your dog isn’t microchipped yet, that’s a requirement too.From 1 July, you can get your dog microchipped for $40 at one of the Council’s shelters, and that record will go straight into the National Dog Database.Coast dog owners with multiple pets, working dogs, or a Responsible Dog Owner Licence (RDOL) also benefit from reduced rates—some as low as $76 if your pup’s desexed and you’ve got the licence.For all the details, fee breakdowns, and to manage your dog’s details online, head to: myauckland.aucklandcouncil.govt.nzLet’s keep our beaches, parks, and neighbourhoods safe and friendly—register your dog and get that red tag sorted today.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

Coasties with a craving for biltong or a bottle of Mrs Ball’s are in for a treat—Inside Africa is opening its doors in Silverdale tomorrow, from 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM.The new store, tucked into Unit 2 at 1 Alberto Lane (right next to Joe’s Garage), is the fourth Auckland location for this much-loved South African grocery brand.Founded in Howick back in 2001, Inside Africa has built up a loyal following with more than 2000 authentic products shipped straight from South Africa to New Zealand.You’ll find everything from traditional snacks to pantry staples, with new shipments arriving weekly to keep the shelves fresh and interesting.The Silverdale shop marks their fourth store to open in Auckland—and their northernmost one yet. It’s run by Owen and Melissa, who manage the NZ side of their multi-generation family business. “We’re really excited to open in Silverdale,” says Owen. “We’ve had lots of great feedback and people asking when we’re opening. The staff are going through some final training today and we’re all looking forward to seeing familiar and new faces from tomorrow.”Saturday’s grand opening promises a warm welcome, with free samples, giveaways, and some sharp opening specials for early visitors. It’s a great chance to stock up—or discover something new if you’ve never explored South African flavours before.And if you’re like me, you might be heading straight for the biltong. Just follow your nose!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!Liquorland Whangaparaoa Anniversary GalaSat May 31More detailsA Night at the DiscoSat May 31More detailsLearn to Salsa Dance Classes - Pure Beginners Sun Jun 1More details Want 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

It may have been a day off for Orewa College students with a Teachers Only day, but the rest of the country got a wake-up call. Associate Education Minister David Seymour has confirmed the Government will take a much tougher stance on school attendance—including prosecuting parents who repeatedly refuse to send their kids to class.Under new measures announced this week, the Ministry of Education is actively working with schools and Attendance Service providers to identify families where persistent non-attendance is an issue. If parents ignore support systems and fail to engage, the Ministry won’t hesitate to take legal action.“Prosecution is a reality for parents who refuse to send their children to school and ignore supports,” Seymour said.Students with chronic illnesses, disabilities, or whose families are genuinely working with schools won’t be targeted. But for those who aren’t engaging, consequences are coming.The move is part of a broader plan to lift attendance across New Zealand. While numbers are slowly improving—with each 2024 term showing better rates than in 2023—the Government says that’s not enough. From Term 1, 2026, schools will be required to implement a formal attendance management plan, aligning with the new STAR system—Stepped Attendance Response.What does this mean for Coast families? If your child is missing more than 15 days in a term without a valid reason, you're likely to hit the STAR system’s “red light.” At that point, legal consequences become a real possibility.According to Seymour, about 10% of students fall into this category—and the Government is ready to act. The ultimate goal? No child left behind.“Attending school is the first step toward better health, higher incomes, and stronger communities,” he said.For Coasties, this means a stronger push from schools and the Ministry to keep kids in the classroom. With the Hibiscus Coast’s mix of working families, single parents, and commuter households, the pressure to balance schedules is real—but the message is clear: regular school attendance is no longer negotiable.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

There’s plenty on the line this Saturday at Eden Park as the Blues host the Waratahs in a must-win clash to stay alive in the Super Rugby finals race. Kick-off is at 4:35pm, and for several Blues fan favourites, this will be their last home game in the iconic blue jersey.It’ll be an emotional afternoon for supporters as they farewell Mark Tele’a, Ricky Riccitelli, Harry Plummer and Adrian Choat, all moving on at season’s end. It’s also a send-off of sorts for Rieko Ioane, who’s taking up an overseas sabbatical before returning to the Blues in 2027.Fans will be thrilled to see Tele’a back from suspension, slotting in on the right wing with his trademark energy. AJ Lam shifts into second five-eighth, and Finlay Christie earns the start at halfback. In the forwards, Anton Segner has been cleared to return after a heavy knock in Round 14.The bench sees the return of Adrian Choat from injury, with Jordan Lay and Sam Nock also adding punch. It’s a strong squad, and the Blues will need to fire on all cylinders to keep their finals hopes alive.But Saturday’s match isn’t just about the game. Players will wear their club rugby socks with pride—a nod to where it all began. And fans can soak up a full day of festivities, including the first-ever Waiata Singalong led by Dame Hinewehi Mohi DNZM. Post-match, the Eden Park turf will open for photos and autographs—a heartfelt thank-you to the loyal Blues supporters.For Coasties who’ve followed these players since their schoolboy rugby days or watched them go from club fields to Test match stadiums, Saturday’s game will feel personal. It’s one last chance to cheer them on from our side of the Harbour Bridge.Blues Team for Round 16*caps and club teams in bracketsStarting XV:Joshua Fusitu’a (34) (GTEC)Ricky Riccitelli (48) (Tukapa Rugby, Taranaki)Marcel Renata (63) (AURFC)Patrick Tuipulotu (capt) (121) (Ponsonby)Laghlan McWhannell (20) (Hautapu, Cambridge)Anton Segner (34) (Frankfurt)Dalton Papali’i (94) (Patumahoe)Hoskins Sotutu (75) (Marist / Manurewa)Finlay Christie (65) (Pukekohe / UC)Beauden Barrett (41) (Coastal, Taranaki)Caleb Clarke (72) (Ponsonby)AJ Lam (55) (GTEC)Rieko Ioane (125) (Ponsonby)Mark Tele’a (77) (Massey)Corey Evans (26) (GTEC)Reserves: 16. Kurt Eklund (72) (AURFC) 17. Jordan Lay (24) (AURFC) 18. Angus Ta’avao (79) (Marist) 19. Josh Beehre (24) (GTEC) 20. Adrian Choat (52) (Waitemata) 21. Sam Nock (79) (Kerikeri) 22. Harry Plummer (86) (GTEC) 23. Cole Forbes (27) (Te Puke)Unavailable due to injury:Cam Christie (thumb), Stephen Perofeta (leg), Reon Paul (shoulder), Cam Suafoa (medical, season), Ofa Tu’ungafasi (neck, season), Sam Darry (shoulder, season)Go the Blues!!Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

Coasties, here’s your quick-hit forecast for the long King’s Birthday weekend—so you know when to rug up, head out, or hunker in.Friday, 30/5Windy and partly cloudy. Breezy to brisk West to Sou'West winds.High: 18Low: 14Saturday, 31/5Windy and partly cloudy. Breezy to brisk West to Sou'West winds.High: 17Low: 14Sunday, 1/6Partly cloudy. Breezy to brisk West to Sou'West winds.High: 17Low: 12Monday, 2/6 (Kings Birthday)A mix of sun and cloud. Fairly breezy West to Sou'West winds.High: 17Low: 11Looking 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!