Big changes are coming that could make it much easier and quicker for Coasties to go solar.The Government has just announced several updates aimed at encouraging more households to install rooftop solar panels.The biggest shift?You’ll no longer need building consent to add panels to an existing home.Plus, if you’re building new and include solar in your plans, the council will now need to process your entire building consent in just 10 working days instead of the usual 20.That could save homeowners around $400 a day in delays.There’s also a behind-the-scenes technical change that matters.The permitted voltage range for electricity networks is expanding, which will make it easier for homes to send unused solar power back to the grid.Energy Minister Simon Watts says this could add more than 500 gigawatt-hours of solar generation across New Zealand, which is enough to make a real difference in power supply and household bills.For the Hibiscus Coast, where sunshine is generally plentiful and community interest in sustainability is growing, these updates are likely to spark a surge in local solar installs.They’re especially welcome at a time when many Coasties are looking for ways to save on power and future-proof their homes.As Minister Watts put it: “Common-sense and cost-effective changes like these will make it easier for Kiwis to build sustainable homes and help strengthen our electricity system for the future.”Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

Big changes are coming to KiwiSaver, and if you’re an employer on the Hibiscus Coast, it’s time to take note.From 1 July 2025, 16- and 17-year-olds will become eligible for government contributions for the first time.But at the same time, the maximum government contribution will be halved from $521.43 down to $260.72 per year.Those earning over $180,000 will no longer qualify for the top-up at all.In 2026, both employers and employees will see default contribution rates rise to 3.5%, with a further bump to 4% in 2028.If employees choose to stick with 3%, they’ll be able to apply for a temporary rate reduction and as an employer, you can match that if you wish.There’s more: from 1 April 2026, if your 16- or 17-year-old staff members contribute from their wages, you’ll also need to start contributing.For Coast-based businesses, these changes could mean rethinking payroll systems and budgeting ahead especially those with younger team members or high earners.Inland Revenue will be in touch if and when your contribution requirements change.The government says these updates aim to make retirement savings more accessible while ensuring long-term sustainability of the KiwiSaver scheme.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

If you’re heading out for a drink this month, plan ahead, because Police are stepping up roadside breath testing across the country, and they want every driver to get the message: if you’re drinking, don’t drive.Increased checkpoints are already underway, and officers say they're out in force in more locations than ever.You won’t always see them coming, either, mobile units and pop-up breath test stations are part of a deliberate “anywhere, any time” approach.For those on the Hibiscus Coast, it means extra caution is needed, especially with winter events and shorter days.Whether you’re heading to a local pub night, a friend’s place in Gulf Harbour, or a dinner in Wainui, Police say you should sort a sober ride home first.Locals have been reminded that even small amounts of alcohol can impair judgment and slow reaction times.The goal isn’t to catch people out, it’s to save lives.This heightened focus comes as part of a national campaign to reduce alcohol-related crashes, which still claim too many lives each year.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

Night maintenance is now underway on State Highway 1 between Puhoi and Warkworth.Work is scheduled Monday to Thursday, from 6pm to 5am, over the next four weeks.NZTA says crews will be operating in both directions using designated maintenance bays.SH1 will remain open, but traffic management and reduced speed limits will be in place overnight.This stretch of motorway is a key link for Coasties heading north—whether it’s a work trip, a quick getaway, or visiting whānau.While delays are expected to be minimal, drivers are being asked to slow down and take care.Crews will be working in live traffic lanes.The Puhoi to Warkworth extension is the first part of the wider corridor upgrade to Wellsford.It’s designed to ease congestion and improve safety—and it's already making that northbound run quicker and more reliable.If you’re travelling after dark, keep an eye out for signs, plan a little extra time, and stay safe.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

Welcome to The Week That Was—your go-to recap of the most important news, stories, and updates for the Hibiscus Coast community.Men’s Health Week Urges Action Read moreWater Rates Rise from JulyRead more12-month prescriptions: What you need to knowRead moreSpeed Limit Reinstated on HighwayRead moreLibrary Use SoarsRead 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.

On a cold and crisp night in Christchurch, the Auckland Blues gave it everything in their Super Rugby semi-final, but fell just short.The match was tied 14–14 at halftime, and it stayed tense right to the final whistle. With the Blues pushing hard in the dying minutes, the Crusaders' defence stood firm, shutting down any chance of a last-minute comeback.In the end, it was the Crusaders who found the edge, scoring in the second half and keeping the Blues scoreless. It finished 21–14.Several familiar faces bowed out in Blues colours, including Rieko Ioane, Adrian Choat, Harry Plummer, Ricky Riccitelli, and Mark Tele’a, the end of an era for fans.For many Coasties who back the Blues, this one stings. Whether you were shouting at the TV or watching with mates over a beer, it hurt. But there’s pride in how they played, with heart, grit, and fight.Now attention turns to what’s next. A rebuild, yes, but also a chance for new names to rise and loyal Blues fans from the Hibiscus Coast to keep backing their boys.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

A growing number of New Zealanders are swapping the North Island for the South, with new Census data revealing about 86,000 people made the move between 2018 and 2023.That’s roughly 30,000 more than those who headed north in the same period.The trend is backed up by fresh insights from Trade Me Property, showing more interest in South Island listings and a shrinking price gap between the two islands.“In December 2021, the average asking price difference was over $350,000. Now it’s around $182,000,” says Gavin Lloyd, Trade Me Property Customer Director. “That’s a big shift in just a few years.”The migration could be driven by the rising cost of living and housing affordability pressures in the North.More Kiwis are looking for a lifestyle reset, and the South Island’s combination of natural beauty, growing cities, and more accessible prices is striking a chord.Trade Me Property’s May data shows Canterbury listings saw a 7% year-on-year rise in views, and local agents are fielding more calls from potential buyers up north.While this isn’t a mass exodus, it does signal a change in the way people think about where they want to live, work, and raise families.For Coasties, it’s a timely reminder to keep an eye on shifting property dynamics, especially for those considering a move or watching the market for future investment.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

From Sunday 15 June through to Thursday 19 June, Coasties heading south on State Highway 1 from Silverdale to Oteha Valley Road should expect daytime lane restrictions.The works will take place from 9am to 7pm Sunday through Wednesday, and from 9am to 5pm on Thursday.NZTA says southbound traffic will remain open at all times, but drivers should be prepared for slower conditions and follow traffic management instructions.The crew will be carrying out slip remediation works, which means increased noise levels are also expected during this time.Ramp closures and lane restrictions may begin earlier than the main advertised work times.All work is weather dependent, so the schedule could shift if conditions aren’t suitable.This stretch of motorway is a key route for many Hibiscus Coast residents heading into Albany and the city for work, study or appointments.Any delays here could affect morning and late-afternoon traffic flow across the region, especially for those commuting south.If you're travelling this route during the affected times, it’s a good idea to allow extra time or consider alternate routes where possible.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

Sharesies is getting a new look. Say hello to Sharesies Private. While the brand refresh will bring a sleeker design across the app and platform in the coming weeks, the company promises there’s no change to how things work. Everything you rely on will stay exactly the same, no new software to learn, no action required.Before the change goes live, Sharesies will contact users with more details to help ensure the transition is smooth. Their focus is on making the upgrade seamless and positive for all users.At the same time, Sharesies is warning about a rise in scams targeting investors, especially on TikTok. Fake accounts pretending to be Sharesies are trying to trick users.To stay safe, Coasties are urged to only trust these official handles:NZ: @SharesiesAny other account isn’t genuine. And remember—Sharesies will never message you first via social media. If they need to reach you, it’ll be via email or directly in the app.Anyone who thinks they’ve been scammed should contact Investor Care right away: [email protected] locals using the app to build long-term wealth, these updates are a good reminder: while the design may change, security and support remain top priorities.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

If you’ve popped into the newly renovated Orewa or the Whangaparaoa Library lately, you’re not alone.Locals have been making the most of our libraries, contributing to a record-breaking 14 million items borrowed across Auckland this past year.Auckland Council Libraries now rank among the top ten eLending services globally, with 5 million digital checkouts in 2024 alone.And it’s not just the e-books flying off the shelves, up to 15,000 physical items move through the central sorting system daily.We’re lucky to have access to Australasia’s largest public library network, with 56 branches including our two on the Hibiscus Coast, a fleet of mobile libraries, and borrowing available online.That means Coasties can get their hands on any of the 3.4 million items in the region-wide collection, often within days.Catherine Leonard, Head of Library and Learning Services, says the high demand has been paired with strong community satisfaction.“We’re sitting at 93% satisfaction, and we’re always looking at ways to improve,” she says.That includes expanding much-loved offerings like the Bestie collection of local authors and a new board game library—with a kids’ version coming later this year.Locals might’ve also noticed the steady stream of school holiday events hosted at Orewa and Whangaparaoa Libraries.These popular sessions keep our kids entertained and learning, and make the library a go-to spot during the break.Beyond books, our libraries offer safe spaces for creativity, free Wi-Fi, printing, public computer use, and access to one of the country’s largest heritage collections at Auckland Central.The new 2025–2028 plan aims to keep libraries creative and community-focused.And for Coasties, it’s clear—our local libraries are more than just bookshelves. They’re buzzing community hubs, full of free resources and friendly faces.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!Silverdale Village MarketSat, 14 JunMore detailsMixed Media Crafting PartySat, 14 JunMore details Orewa Beach Farmers MarketSun,15 JunMore 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

If you’re dreaming of a long-haul getaway next summer, Air New Zealand just made that a little easier, and comfier. From October 2025 through March 2026, the airline is rolling out over 34,000 extra seats to North America and a major uplift in premium cabin availability across its international network.That includes a hefty 15% increase in premium seats for the United States and Canada, with more flights and more comfort on offer. Auckland to Los Angeles, for example, will run 11–12 times a week over the peak, offering nearly 24,000 more seats, including 6,800 in premium cabins. Daily services to San Francisco and upgraded planes to Vancouver are also part of the plan, just in time for the snow season.For Hibiscus Coast locals planning overseas holidays or heading off to visit friends and family abroad, these changes mean more flight options, better timing, and a refreshed inflight experience, especially if you’re keen to upgrade from economy. The airline’s newly retrofitted Boeing 787 Dreamliners will also be in the skies by the end of the year, promising more space and comfort for long hauls.Asia-bound travellers won’t miss out either. Routes to destinations like Taipei, Bali, and Hong Kong are seeing a noticeable bump in premium seats, with up to 35% more premium capacity on Shanghai services alone.Air New Zealand’s Chief Commercial Officer Jeremy O’Brien says the move responds to surging demand.“Customers want a more comfortable and seamless experience,” he said, pointing to strong feedback on the airline’s refreshed cabin offerings.With many Coasties planning overseas trips, reconnecting with loved ones, or chasing a Northern Hemisphere winter, these added options will be welcome news. Whether you're heading to the US, Canada or Asia, there's now more room to fly in comfort.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

Social housing, rough sleepers and police responsiveness have been flagged as priorities for Auckland's Northcote community, after a meeting with the police minister this week.The meeting at the Northcote Birkenhead rugby club on Monday night brought together residents and business owners with Police Minister Mark Mitchell, as well as local MP Dan Bidois, police district commander Naila Hassan and other police staff.Mitchell told RNZ the community said to him that they had noticed a change."I've literally done hundreds of these public meetings around the country over the last few years, and the nice thing is for me is they seem to getting more and more positive in terms of, people are starting to see and notice a real difference in terms of, certainly, on the law and order and pubic safety side of it," he said.Mitchell said managing rough sleepers was a wide issue."It's been around for a while, we've been working on that in the CBD too," he said."Often, many of these people have actually got safe homes and beds to go to, it's more of a lifestyle choice where they're coming together as a community, and of course there's all the social issues around them, not only can they cause issues themselves but they can become targets too, for those coming into the CBD."Community members also raised concerns over some residents in local Kāinga Ora housing, with Mitchell focusing on those who did not live up to the "social contract that they have when they're provided tax-payer funded housing"."The government's been far more proactive in making sure that there is actually action taken against those people, because they do cause massive issues in the communities they're in," Mitchell said.There was an expectation that residents in social housing make their communities as safe and harmonious as they could, he said.When it came to the prioritisation of police callouts, a concern voiced by a local shopkeeper, Mitchell said officers had to put greater risk callouts first."Of course police always have to prioritise, and they always have had to prioritise, it'll be based on risk to human life first and foremost, and then they sort of start working down from there," he said.Mitchell said a similar model of community engagement as was done in the central city could be implemented in Northcote."I said the model that we used for the Auckland CBD was very effective, and that was bringing all the stakeholders together," he said."I suggested that [MP for Northcote] Dan Bidois take the lead on that, get everyone together; local board, business associations, residents and ratepayers associations or residents' associations, and the government agencies if they need them, make up a list of what the biggest issues are, and concerns and just start working through it."

More than one million New Zealand businesses have now registered for a New Zealand Business Number (NZBN), marking a major step forward in the country’s push for a digitally connected economy.Small Business and Manufacturing Minister Chris Penk announced the milestone this week, calling the NZBN “a simple idea with a big impact.” Each business is issued a unique identifier that makes it easier to deal with government, suppliers, and other businesses.“It saves time, cuts duplication, and reduces admin,” said Penk. “And it’s becoming a cornerstone of how we do business in New Zealand.”Since launching in 2016, the NZBN system has helped streamline invoicing, procurement, compliance, and even emergency responses. What makes this update particularly noteworthy is that nearly 200,000 sole traders and unincorporated businesses, who aren’t legally required to register, have voluntarily signed up. That’s a clear sign the tool is proving useful for smaller operators who need simple, digital solutions.Locally, businesses across the Hibiscus Coast are among those benefitting from the NZBN system, with many Coast-based tradies, sole traders, and retailers using it to speed up paperwork, confirm business legitimacy, and stay organised without the need for complex software.Penk says the value of the NZBN will only grow as more businesses keep their details up to date, enabling smarter use of tools like AI and faster, more tailored services from government agencies.For Coasties running small businesses, this milestone isn’t just a national win, it’s a sign of progress in the day-to-day tools that help our local economy tick.If you haven’t already registered for an NZBN, you can find more info and apply here: nzbn.govt.nzSeen 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, 13/6Morning showers. Breezy to brisk Westerly winds.High: 17Low: 11Saturday, 14/6Showers. Breezy Westerly winds.High: 16Low: 10Sunday, 15/6Showers. Light Easterly winds.High: 16Low: 10Monday, 16/6Showers. Breezy East to Sou'East winds.High: 14Low: 8Looking 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've ever sat at a school meeting wondering how to best support a child with extra learning needs, you're not alone.And you might've raised an eyebrow at this year’s Budget announcement.The Government’s $646 million headline for learning support sounds like a win, but according to Professor Missy Morton, it’s more of a mixed bag.Professor Morton, who specialises in Disability Studies and Inclusive Education at the University of Auckland’s Faculty of Arts and Education, says that while parts of the Budget are genuinely promising, others raise questions.She welcomed the increased funding for the Ongoing Resourcing Scheme (ORS), which helps schools support children with high or very high needs.Until now, ORS was capped.Even children who met the criteria could miss out because the pot had run dry.Morton says this left many schools—including those on the Hibiscus Coast—stretched and families struggling.The Budget promises all verified students will now be funded, with around 1,700 more students expected to benefit.She also sees the extension of early intervention services to the end of Year 1 as a positive move.This means support like speech therapy and behavioural help won’t stop once a child leaves kindy.That’s something many local teachers will quietly cheer.But not all the news is good.Morton notes that while the Budget talks about two million more teacher aide hours by 2028, that equates to fewer than one extra aide per school.She also points out that some of the new funding may come from cuts elsewhere, such as removing specialist literacy teacher roles.In her view, what’s good for learners who need extra support is good for all students.A truly inclusive classroom, she says, benefits everyone.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

Auckland is set for a major transformation, with sweeping changes to housing rules aimed at unlocking more homes, especially around the City Rail Link (CRL) stations. The Government and Auckland Council have finally struck a deal that will open up land for higher-density housing, clearing the way for Auckland to grow smarter and faster.The changes come through the Resource Management (Consenting and Other System Changes) Amendment Bill, which has just been reported back to Parliament. It scraps the current one-size-fits-all housing rules and replaces them with a new approach that focuses growth where it makes the most sense, near major public transport.Minister Chris Bishop called the change one of the most significant since the Auckland Unitary Plan. “It doesn’t make sense to have single-storey houses next to multi-billion-dollar train stations,” he said. “This is about making Auckland a city that works for people.”Under the new rules, Auckland Council is required to notify a new housing plan change by 10 October this year. This new plan must enable at least the same amount of housing as the previous PC78 plan, if not more. The Council is also being directed to allow for greater heights and density around major CRL stations to meet growing demand.While PC78 was underway since 2022, its progress was slow, hindered by floods and complicated planning rules. Council had asked the Government for help, and now that help is here, but with clear expectations.So what does this mean for Coasties?For those commuting from the Hibiscus Coast, these changes could ease pressure on housing demand in our area by encouraging more homes to be built closer to city transport hubs. Over time, that may help reduce sprawl, cut down long travel times, and give our younger generation more affordable options to live closer to where they work or study.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

A familiar phone scam has reappeared, with fake ‘Police officers’ targeting unsuspecting Kiwis — and this time, reports include areas not far from the Hibiscus Coast.New Zealand Police have issued another strong warning about the cold call ruse.The scammers pose as Police officers investigating a fictional case and often claim to have found your passport or another personal item.They’ll ask for personal information, or worse, convince people to hand over bank details or withdraw cash.The voice on the line?Usually a man with a polished English accent, complete with a fake badge number.Acting Detective Senior Sergeant Ben Bergin from Waitematā CIB says the scam is “essentially a cold call under a ruse”, and while the story may vary, the tactic is the same — pressure, urgency, and manipulation.In the past week alone, Police have received scam reports from Warkworth, Riverhead, Royal Oak and other areas — a clear reminder that Coasties could be next on the list.Thankfully, no one is reported to have lost money in the most recent cases.But it’s a timely reminder to stop, hang up, and double-check.For those living on the Hibiscus Coast, it’s a warning worth sharing with neighbours, elderly parents, or anyone who might take a call like this at face value.Scammers rely on confusion and urgency, so staying calm — and calling 105 to verify — is your best defence.Police have made arrests over similar scams before, but the calls continue to pop up in waves.Don’t be caught off guard.If you’ve received one of these calls, report it to Police at 105 or online.Police remind the public:They will never ask for bank or PIN detailsThey don’t offer prizes or request cash withdrawalsAlways stop and verify with a real Police callbackStay safe and keep each other informed — especially around scams like these that thrive in silence.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

Caleb Clarke has committed his future to the Blues through to the end of the 2027 Super Rugby Pacific season—just as the Auckland side prepares for a massive semi-final clash against the Crusaders this Friday night.The dynamic winger, a fan favourite since his teenage debut, has become a cornerstone of the Blues backline with his explosive pace and raw power. Now 25, Clarke says there’s no place he’d rather be.“The Blues is home for me. I’ve grown up here, developed here, and achieved some amazing things with this team. I’m proud to represent our region and am excited about what’s ahead,” Clarke said.His decision to stay is a huge boost for the club and fans alike, especially those on the Hibiscus Coast who’ve followed his rise from promising youngster to All Blacks star. Whether watching from Eden Park or tuning in from home, Coasties know Clarke brings the kind of energy that can change a match.Blues GM of Rugby Murray Williams said, “We’re stoked to have Caleb locked in through 2027. His energy is contagious, he’s passionate about the Blues jersey, and he’ll be a huge part of our success moving forward.”It’s not just about the future though—there’s a big job ahead this week.The Blues have named a settled side for Friday night’s do-or-die semi-final against the Crusaders in Christchurch. The only change sees Zarn Sullivan starting at fullback in place of Corey Evans.The forward pack, featuring Patrick Tuipulotu, Dalton Papali’i and Hoskins Sotutu, brings serious punch, while the backline, Finlay Christie, Beauden Barrett, AJ Lam, Rieko Ioane, Mark Tele’a, and of course, Caleb Clarke—oozes finals firepower.Head coach Vern Cotter said the team is ready to go: “It’s going to be a tough game and we need to be as accurate as possible. The guys know how to win big games and that’s our goal again on Friday night.”Fresh off last weekend’s win over the Chiefs, the Blues are chasing a spot in back-to-back Grand Finals after lifting the trophy in 2024. It won’t be easy, Christchurch is a fortress, but there’s a strong sense this group is building toward something special.For Coasties, it’s another reason to rally behind the team in blue. Whether you're heading down, hosting a watch party, or catching the game on the couch, Friday night’s semi-final is a must-watch. Go Blues!!Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]