Ingka Investments, the parent company of furniture giant Ikea, has bought 10,000 hectares of production forestry in Northland from Greenheart Group.It takes the company's investment in the country's forestland to nearly 30,000 hectares, worth about $616 million.This includes nine existing forestry blocks planted in mostly pinus radiata, and an additional 3000ha of indigenous forest, most of which will be dedicated to biodiversity conservation and other environmental purposes.It comes as Ikea plans to open its first New Zealand store in Auckland in December.Forestland acquisition manager Simon Honour said its main focus was production forestry as opposed to carbon farming, and had hopes of using the timber for Ikea products."Obviously wood is an essential part of the Ikea identity and our ultimate goal is to get that wood into the Ikea supply chain."He said it would focus on domestic processing and was working to develop relationships with local sawmills and traders, though he did not rule out looking to develop their own further down the track.Honour said most of the forestland was not eligible for carbon units.Where blocks are registered under the Emissions Trading Scheme, or ETS, he said this helped quantify how many units are being sequestered and the carbon units are not traded."We have no focus on carbon whatsoever, and we have a pure timber focus."Overseas Investment Office figures from last year show Ingka Investments had bought about 19,200ha of farmland to turn into rotational pine forests.Some of the more prominent sales included Huiarua Station and Matanui Station in the Gisborne region, with a combined area of just over 6000ha.Honour acknowledged much of the land purchased by Ingka Investments since 2021 was farmland converted to forestry."Even from the start, if we could buy forests we would have. Unfortunately they don't come up for sale that often."We wanted to get established in New Zealand and at that time, back in 2021, acquiring farms was a way to do that."He said there were "pros and cons" to establishing new forestry blocks."Creating forests from the start where you can set your riparian zones, your set back from waterways right from the start does have some benefits."He would not rule out purchasing future farms for conversion, but said it was not Ingka's focus for now."We would much rather procure existing forests because it just fits with our values better."He said the strategic acquisition underscored Ingka Investments' long-term commitment to responsible forest management, sustainable land stewardship and regional economic development.Addressing farmer concerns about the risk of fire and pests on forestland, Honour said management plans were in place for both.Planned restoration projects focused on indigenous reforestation, and enhancement of existing native vegetation will be complemented by ongoing pest-control programs designed to safeguard biodiversity, improve forest health, and support the long-term success of restoration efforts.While pinus radiata will remain the dominant commercial species due to its proven performance, future replanting cycles will selectively introduce alternative species where appropriate.This diversification strategy will strengthen ecosystem resilience, support biodiversity, and improve overall forest health.The Northland forests were certified by the Forest Stewardship Council and would remain so.New Zealand's first Ikea opens in December. Photo: RNZ / Marika KhabaziHonour said a commercial production forest contributed to regional employment and he hoped to grow the number of Northland jobs.Local forestry company, Northland Forest Managers, would continue daily operations.Manager Neil Geerkens said he looked forward to the partnership."Together, we will maintain sustainable harvesting practices, enhance biodiversity conservation and ensure continued community access, delivering enduring environmental, social, and economic benefits for the region."The acquisition was subject to OIO approval, and shareholder and regulatory approvals by Greenheart Group.Kelvin Meredith, Ingka Investments' forestland country manager New Zealand, said it was committed to responsible forest management, including restoring natural landscapes, supporting biodiversity and collaborating with local communities to create meaningful, lasting impact."People value recreational access to these forests, and we're committed to ensuring these opportunities continue."The Kauri Coast Mountain Bike Park, located at Baylys Forest and operated by the Kaipara Cycling Club, will continue to be free to access by the public, subject to seasonal safety restrictions.Seasonal beehives located on parts of the estate, operated in consultation with the landowner, will also remain in place to support local apiarists and contribute to biodiversity across the forest landscape.

Making plans?Here’s what’s coming up around the Hibiscus Coast. From live music and local markets to family fun and outdoor adventures.Orewa Surf Lifesaving Club 75th Reunion WeekendFri 24 - Sun 26 OctClick here for more details Armageddon ExpoFri 24 - Mon 27 OctClick here for more details Hoedown at the RanchSun 26 OctClick here for more detailsFind more things to do anytime in the Hibiscus Coast App, your local hub for events, food, and fun.Got an event coming up? List it free today.

Coasties might fancy a bubbly start to the weekend today, as October 24 marks Global Champagne Day, the annual toast to France’s most famous sparkling wine.First created by Californian wine tutor Chris Oggenfuss in 2009, the day has since become a worldwide celebration of craftsmanship, elegance and connection. It’s all about pausing to appreciate Champagne, the only sparkling wine legally allowed to carry that name, made exclusively in France’s Champagne region through the traditional méthode champenoise.From royal banquets to backyard barbecues, Champagne has long symbolised joy and togetherness. Its history stretches back to the 13th century, though it wasn’t until the 17th that it really began to fizz in popularity.While still growing in profile here, Global Champagne Day is catching on across New Zealand, with restaurants and bottle stores offering tasting events and specials.So whether you’re unwinding at home in Orewa or clinking glasses with friends in Manly, it’s a fine excuse to celebrate life’s sparkling moments. To friendship. To love. To life.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

Biosecurity New Zealand is urging Aucklanders, including those on the Hibiscus Coast, to keep an eye out for yellow-legged hornets after a queen was found building a nest in Glenfield. The nest was removed on 17 October before a colony could establish, says Mike Inglis, North Commissioner for Biosecurity New Zealand.“This is the first time we’ve found a queen yellow-legged hornet in New Zealand,” Mr Inglis says. “We responded quickly to this threat, but we need the public’s help to eliminate any further risk.”Two male hornets were spotted earlier this year in Grafton and Albany, so officers are keen to confirm there are no others around. The species is a serious biosecurity concern because it preys on bees, wasps, and flies, threatening local ecosystems and horticulture.“It’s a highly adaptable predator,” Mr Inglis says. “It also feeds on ripe fruit and flower nectar, posing a risk to growers and competing with native insects and birds.”The yellow-legged hornet is not established in New Zealand, and officials want to keep it that way.Coast residents who think they’ve seen one are urged to photograph it and report sightings at report.mpi.govt.nz or by calling the Biosecurity New Zealand exotic pest hotline on 0800 80 99 66.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

The Blues have confirmed the return of experienced midfielder Pita Ahki for the next two Super Rugby Pacific seasons. It’s a full-circle moment for the 33-year-old, who grew up in Auckland and made his professional debut with the Blues in 2014 before heading to Europe.Ahki went on to enjoy a stellar career with French club Toulouse, winning five Top 14 titles and two European Rugby Champions Cups. Known for his composure under pressure and strong defensive play, he brings proven leadership and a winning mindset back to New Zealand rugby.“I’m really excited to be coming home, back to where my rugby journey first started,” Ahki said. “It means a lot to return with my family after our time in France and I’m looking forward to bringing those experiences with me and contributing on and off the field.”Ahki is expected to slot into the midfield role left open by Rieko Ioane, who will miss the 2026 season while on sabbatical in Ireland.Blues GM Rugby Murray Williams called Ahki’s signing a special moment. “Pita’s a world-class midfielder with immense experience in Europe, and he’s also one of our own who grew up in Auckland and started his professional journey here. To have him back in Blues colours bringing that leadership and winning mentality is exciting for our squad.”Ahki will re-join the Blues during pre-season later this year, giving fans across Auckland and the Hibiscus Coast plenty to look forward to when Super Rugby kicks off in 2026.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

Coasties, here’s what the next four days have in store:Friday, 24/10A few early showers, then fine with a light southerly turning breezy southwesterly.High: 20Low: 11Saturday, 25/10Mostly fine with a mix of sun and cloud, southerly easing then light westerly later.High: 18Low: 12Sunday, 26/10Partly cloudy and windy with a few brief showers and strong westerlies.High: 19Low: 13Monday, 27/10Showers developing, turning to rain with strengthening nor’westerlies.High: 21Low: 14See the full Weather & Travel section in the Hibiscus Coast App for:🌊 Tide times🌬️ Wind conditions🌊 Wave updates🌞 UV levels🏖️ Safe swimming spots...and plenty more.The Hibiscus Coast App has everything you need, accessible at any time and from any location.

Investors who take more risk in their KiwiSavers are generally being rewarded for it.Morningstar has released its latest KiwiSaver survey, which shows the September quarter was a positive one for KiwiSaver providers.The highest performance in the three months was Koura's clean energy fund, which returned 33.6 percent.Over the year, Koura's bitcoin fund was the top performer, with a near-100 percent return.At the bottom over three months was InvestNow's Mint Australasian equities fund and over a year, OneAnswer's international property fund.Over a year, conservative funds returned 6.1 percent on average, moderate funds 7.3 percent, balanced funds 10.7 percent, growth funds 11.2 percent and aggressive funds 15.2 percent.The report shows that since 2007, when KiwiSaver launched, conservative funds have had an average cumulative return of 129.6 percent, moderate funds 141.1 percent, balanced funds 184.5 percent, growth funds 240.6 percent and aggressive funds 210.2. percent.Riskier funds are more likely to experience volatility but they should deliver better returns over the long term."If we look back very long term, to the start of KiwiSaver just shy of 50 funds that we know about started with KiwiSaver on 01/10/2007 in multi asset class categories and still exist today," report author Greg Bunkall wrote."In between we have had notable events which shook markets and included the GFC, and Covid to name but a few. While the participation throughout the whole time at category level is small in numbers, you can see generally, like other periods we look at, risk has been rewarded once again."Koura founder Rupert Carlyon said aggressive funds would normally be expected to outperform growth funds but he said that could be due to the makeup of the market.He said aggressive funds would be stronger performers over five years, because there had been significant growth in aggressive fund numbers in that time. "The category was smaller until recently, when we've realised that actually, long-term investors need that extra allocation to growth and that's why you've seen a massive proliferation of funds."He said it was easier to have those conversations about the need to take more risk after a long bull market run, where markets have performed well for investors."I think investors, particularly in the last four or five years, have become more aware of the market, of the need to take on risk. That's due to a combination of ultra-low interest rates ... and then also through Covid emergency money, Sharesies - we've got a whole other generation of investors who understand things a bit more."He said retail investors were driving the market more than they ever had in the past. "Why aren't they picking and choosing, why aren't we seeing a whole lot more different sector funds, thematic funds... I'm very biased but I'd also say with what we've seen in the last couple of months with clean energy and bitcoin, it shows doing something different can really add value in KiwiSaver."Over five years, aggressive funds have on average returned 10 percent a year, compared to 8.3 percent for growth.Bunkall said the September quarter was a constructive period for diversified investors.Inflation pressures eased and major banks around the world cut rates.ASB had the best performing conservative, balanced and moderate funds over a year. Quay St was top of the growth and aggressive categories. Milford remained the top-performing growth fund over 10 years.Bunkall noted that some of Kernel's low-cost multi-asset funds had strong showings.Top performers over 10 yearsConservative: Milford Conservative FundModerate: Generate ModerateBalanced: Milford BalancedGrowth: Milford Active GrowthAggressive: Booster Socially Responsible High GrowthTop performers over five yearsConservative: Quay St ConservativeModerate: Milford Moderate FundBalanced: Quay Street Socially Responsible InvestmentGrowth: Quay St GrowthAggressive: SuperLife High Growth

Job ads have now climbed for four straight months, showing stronger hiring confidence across New Zealand. SEEK’s latest Employment Report shows September listings rose 1%, with annual growth reaching 6%, the longest run of growth in more than three years.Construction led the rise, up 6% on the quarter and 13% over the year. Banking and Financial Services followed with a 5% monthly increase, the fastest of any sector. SEEK Country Manager Rob Clark says the upswing is broad-based. “Almost every industry is seeing rising demand, but Construction and Professional Services are where growth is accelerating.”The South Island is ahead, with Canterbury and Otago both up 17% year-on-year.Canterbury’s steady climb in listings since late 2024 reflects ongoing infrastructure work, while Otago’s gains have been sharper month to month.Auckland recorded its second consecutive 1% rise, narrowing its annual drop to just 1%, the smallest gap since 2022.National SEEK Job Ad percentage change by industry (September 2025 vs August 2025) – Ordered by job ad volume.Applications per job ad also continue to increase, up 1% month-on-month and 10% over the year. Manawatu, Auckland, and Waikato are seeing the biggest lifts in candidate activity, showing strong competition for each role.For Hibiscus Coast residents, it signals a livelier Auckland job market and more openings in trades, construction, and hospitality.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

Locals walking their dogs at Big Manly or Tindalls Beach this summer might spot new yellow and red markers along the sand. They’re not random. Each one shows where tiny dotterel and oystercatcher families are nesting, and where special temporary dog rules now apply.From October to 30 March 2026, Auckland Council is running a two-year pilot to help protect these vulnerable shorebirds during nesting season. The plan came from Forest & Bird Whangaparāoa Dotterel Minders and Dog Friends Auckland Region, with support from the Hibiscus and Bays Local Board.Instead of closing whole beaches, the focus is on education and simple, visible rules. Dogs must be on-leash within 200 metres of any yellow-marked nest area, and are prohibited in red-marked fenced zones. The markers shift if chicks begin feeding elsewhere.Volunteer dotterel minders will help install signs and explain what they mean. It’s a partnership built on trust, with dog owners keeping a respectful distance and the community helping rare birds thrive.Forest & Bird’s Derek Kelsey says the shared goal is understanding, not restriction. “We hope locals get behind this plan and help the dotterels and oystercatchers raise their chicks safely.”A community information day in October will outline how everyone can play a part in keeping these birds and our beaches safe.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

With summer just around the corner, skin safety is back in the spotlight and researchers say New Zealand is not doing nearly enough to protect people from the sun.A new report from the Public Health Communication Centre shows that while skin cancer remains our most common and preventable cancer, government funding for prevention has dropped sharply over the past two decades. Today, just $300,000 a year is spent on prevention, about a quarter of what it once was, while the health system spends roughly $450 million annually treating skin cancers.On the Hibiscus Coast, where weekends often mean beaches, parks and outdoor sports, experts say stronger national policy could make a real difference.The report highlights gaps in schools, workplaces and even council-managed spaces. Only six of the country’s 67 councils have sun safety policies, despite most Kiwis saying they want more shade in public areas.Researchers are calling for mandatory sun protection standards, national prevention funding and a complete ban on sunbeds to align with Australia.Dr Bronwen McNoe from the University of Otago says the solutions are already known and what is missing is action. “Effective policy would save both lives and money,” she says.For Coasties planning long summer days outdoors, that is a reminder to stay SunSmart while the country catches up on policy.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

Outdoor and sports retailer Torpedo7 will become an online-only store by the end of February.It closed two Torpedo7 stores earlier this year and converted 10 others into its The Outlet retail concept, which specialises in selling discounted branded clothing lines.Its owner, Tahua Group, said it would convert the remaining six stores in early 2026 into The Outlet stores, bringing that number to 17.After that, Tahua Group said Torpedo7 would become a digital-only brand, focused on premium outdoor products.Tahua also owns retailers Number One Shoes and Hannahs as well as The Outlet, plus the rights for Starbucks, Burger King, and Popeyes in New Zealand.It bought Torpedo7 from The Warehouse Group in February 2024 for $1.Retail division chief exectuive Lesley Francis-Ziogas said Torpedo7 remained an important part of the Tahua portfolio."By going digital-only, Torpedo7 can streamline, scale and grow profitably."Tahua Group managing director Roger Harper said Tahua's strategy was focusing investment where it delivers the best customer value and commercial returns."This is a decisive move - one that protects the business, grows our reach, and sets us up for long-term success."Torpedo7 was founded by Luke Howard-Willis in Hamilton in 2004 as an online retailer selling outdoor equipment.The Warehouse Group paid $33 million for a 51 percent stake in 2014, before eventually acquiring the entire company.It moved Torpedo7 into physical stores from 2014, but mounting losses saw it sell Torpedo7 to Tahua last year.It booked a $60 million loss in its accounts for the year to July 2024.

From Saturday, October 25, new marine protection areas come into effect across the Hauraki Gulf, creating safe zones for marine life to recover and flourish.The Department of Conservation (DOC) will oversee 19 new protected areas across the Gulf, including locations east of the Coromandel Peninsula. DOC Operations Manager Marine, Kirsty Prior, says the focus this summer is on helping people understand the new boundaries and what they mean.“We’ve got a new team of marine rangers, community rangers and seasonal staff gearing up for summer. We’ll be heading to events, boat clubs, ramps and out on the water to chat about these new marine protections,” says Prior.The DOC team, based in Whitianga, Warkworth and Auckland, is installing signs at boat ramps, sharing maps with local fishing retailers and working with chart-plotter providers to update digital maps.“The law is brand new, and it will take time for changes like signage and electronic charts to be completed,” Prior says. “Our focus for now is on education and support. Compliance checks will increase over time as people become familiar with the new protections.”For Hibiscus Coast fishers, most of the Gulf remains open. High Protection Areas prohibit recreational and commercial fishing. Customary non-commercial fishing is still allowed with written authorisation from a tangata kaitiaki. Seafloor Protection Areas restrict bottom trawling and dredging but still allow line fishing and diving.DOC says these measures will help reefs and sensitive sea floors recover, creating a healthier Gulf with more fish for future generations.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

New Zealand households are wasting an average of $1300 each per year on unused food, and misunderstanding of best-before dates may be part of the reason.Love Food Hate Waste has released research that shows that confusion over food date labels could mean millions of dollars' worth of food is binned unnecessarily each year.It is estimated that New Zealanders collectively waste about $3 billion worth of food every year.Love Food Hate Waste's research showed one in 12 people incorrectly thought food should not be eaten after its best before date.A third thought 'use by' was only a quality guide. One in eight threw out food when it was past its best-before date without checking it.Best before dates are a quality guide while use-by dates are for food safety.Love Food Hate Waste programme manager Sophie Wolland said the confusion was leading to "perfectly good" food being thrown away.She said younger people were more likely to be unsure about date labels. "There's a real lack of confidence around their understanding."She said even people who understood the difference did not always treat food accordingly."That all comes down to confidence around being able to trust our senses… it just takes a sensory check [when something is past the best-before date]."But many people report that they're not entirely sure or don't have great confidence in what to look for when you're checking a product or when you're smelling it, what should I be smelling for? Or when you're giving it a taste, a lot of people are hesitant to even just taste a little bit for fear of safety. Again, the younger the age group, the higher the fear around safety. And the research showed that they say they were taught to just trust the date."She said when people were assessing a product that was past its best-before date, they should check for damaged packaging or mould, or changes to the colour and texture."If everything's looking normal, then it's likely still good to go to the next step, which is smell it. So they just go open the food, give it a bit of a sniff. If it smells as they would expect, then it's likely good to go."If it's unusually sort of tangy, or has an eggy or rotten smell, or just sort of smells a bit off, then it probably is. But if it's as you expect, move on to giving it a small taste… you'll know pretty quickly if it's bitter or tangy or kind of rancid flavour, then you'll know, okay, that perhaps has spoiled."She said if food was coming up to the use-by date, it could be put in the freezer to prolong its life. "It's safe so long as once you remove it from the freezer and you defrost it, you need to eat it within 24 hours."She said households estimated they threw out about 11 percent of everything they bought. "It's about $1300 per household annually, on average."Food cannot be sold after its use-by date but can be sold once the best-before date has passed.Consumer NZ spokesperson Belinda Castles agreed there was confusion.Consumer NZ spokesperson Belinda Castles. Photo: D&K Photos Phil ScottShe said how long after a best-before date a product could be expected to last would depend on what it was. "A packet of cereal that is past its best-before date is probably going to be fine. Something that is a yoghurt or dairy product would have a shorter time."Milk is often said to last a week after its date, hard cheeses up to a few months, and many pantry items much longer.She said meat could be eaten after its best-before date because it would be cooked.Castles said people needed to remember that once something was opened, it was its shelf life that would matter rather than the best-before date."Say you buy a pottle of sour cream. The best before date might be six weeks out but once you open that the best before date doesn't apply and you'll see on the instructions 'once opened eat within four days'. So you've got to use those both together."Food that could be expected to last longer than a couple of years, such as a can of tomatoes, might not have a date at all.It was the manufacturer's responsibility to determine what was an appropriate best-before date, she said. "Something might become stale after its best-before date or some of that nutritional quality might reduce if the vitamins or minerals degrade over time but it should be safe from a food safety perspective."Wolland said manufacturers would tend to use 'best before' dates to encourage people to eat their food at its very best. "Often they err on the side of caution because they really do want people to enjoy the product at its prime."She said dried goods like pasta could last years beyond their best-before date.

New Zealand’s biggest band, SIX60, are bringing a taste of Nashville to Kiwi shores with Sweet Home Aotearoa, a brand-new country and roots festival set for Saturday, January 3, 2026, at Matakana Country Park.After spending time recording in Nashville, the band felt a strong connection to the city’s authentic spirit and storytelling culture.That experience inspired them to create a local celebration blending Southern soul with Kiwi energy.Curated by SIX60, the one-day festival promises world-class acts, including Yelawolf, Tash Sultana (DJ Set), Tami Neilson, Hori Shaw, Brad Cox, South Summit, Rachael Fahim, TheWesternGuide, Rosie Teese, and of course, SIX60 themselves.“We spent a lot of time in Nashville working on our new album, it felt so similar to home. The authentic nature, storytelling and power to bring people together that roots and country music have was so evident. We knew it was time for New Zealand to have its first country and roots festival – Sweet Home Aotearoa,” said the band.Festivalgoers can expect a day of sunshine, food, and live music from both local and international performers.With its easy drive from the Hibiscus Coast, Matakana’s relaxed country charm makes it an ideal summer destination for Coasties keen to start the new year in style.Tickets go on sale at midday Tuesday, October 28, via sweethome.co.nzThe event is all ages, but under 18s must attend with a parent or guardian.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

A combined $1.2 billion in new funding will push the Government’s Roads of National Significance programme into its next phase, Transport Minister Chris Bishop says.The NZ Transport Agency Board has endorsed investment cases for major routes including the Northland Expressway, East West Link, Hamilton Southern Links, Petone to Grenada and Cross Valley Link, SH1 Wellington Improvements (including a new Mt Victoria tunnel), and the Hope Bypass.More than $675 million will go toward design, consenting and early works, with a further $515 million from approved property funds to begin land purchases.“This ensures progress can continue at pace,” Mr Bishop said.“We’re building a credible pipeline of high-value infrastructure that supports jobs and growth.”For Coasties, the impact will be felt closest to home through upgrades north of Auckland.Procurement is underway on the Warkworth to Te Hana corridor, with a preferred bidder expected early 2026 and construction due to start later that year.The Northland Expressway, which links directly beyond Te Hana, will be built in stages and includes a fast-tracked alternative to the Brynderwyn Hills.The investment case projects travel-time savings of up to 38 minutes between Te Hana and Whangārei, and a 66 percent cut in deaths and serious injuries.“This is a transformational opportunity for the North,” Mr Bishop said.“Next steps include property acquisition and lodging consents under the Fast-track Approvals Act by 2026.”Preferred route Te Hana to Port Marsden Highway and Port Marsden Highway to Whangārei.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

Auckland Transport’s Pothole Promise is back, with road crews aiming to fix 95% of potholes on major roads within 24 hours. On all other sealed roads, repairs will be made within five working days.The campaign, running from Sunday, October 20 to Saturday, November 16, encourages Aucklanders to report potholes—and where possible, include a photo—to help teams find and fix them faster.AT’s Group Manager for Road Asset Maintenance and Renewals, Alan Wallace, says the drier spring weather makes this the best time for a major repair push. “Last year our contractors repaired more than 6,000 potholes across the region and we’re committed to repairing them as quickly as possible,” he said.Potholes form when water seeps into cracks and weakens the surface, a familiar frustration for drivers on the Hibiscus Coast. With more Council and Government funding, AT is also increasing resurfacing work to stop potholes forming in the first place.“We’re asking Aucklanders to help us keep roads safe by reporting potholes when they see them—and if you can, please include a photo,” Wallace added. Photos help crews confirm exact locations and severity, while new reporting tools allow AT to update residents once a repair is complete.Coasties can report potholes directly at at.govt.nz/potholepromise to get them fixed before the busy summer season.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

Coasties might remember the buzz in Silverdale earlier this year, when the first-ever Pioneer Festival filled the village streets with music, laughter, and the smell of fresh food. The free community event, hosted by Silverdale Business, will return on Sunday, 8 March 2026, from 12–5pm across Silverdale Village and Pioneer Village.This year’s festival drew more than 4,000 people for a lively mix of history, entertainment, and community connection. Over 60 local stallholders offered everything from handcrafted soaps to award-winning chocolate, while families enjoyed live performances, food trucks, and the ever-popular community raffle stacked with prizes donated by local businesses.Planning for next year is already well underway. Organisers say the 2026 event will build on that success, with more music, kids’ entertainment, local food, and historical displays celebrating the area’s roots.That means Coasties can expect another fun, family-friendly day out that shines a light on Silverdale’s heritage and supports the small businesses that make this part of the Hibiscus Coast special.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

Explainer - There's a "mega strike" coming this week. Who is taking part, and why are they protesting?It is being billed as quite possibly the biggest labour action in more than 40 years.Teachers, nurses and thousands of other workers are all expected to strike on Thursday 23 October as dissatisfaction over pay and working conditions boils over.It is the latest in a growing series of strikes and walkoffs this year, but the sheer size of it means much of New Zealand will come to a halt."The mood for working people is frustration with a government that is out of touch and doesn't seem to value them or their work - especially in the public sector," Council of Trade Unions president Richard Wagstaff said.However, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon is calling the planned action "a shame", and said, "I think people are getting sick of unions prioritising the politics over patients, or kids in education and parents being mucked around."Here's what you need to know.Who's striking?An awful lot of people - estimates have been that more than 100,000 people could walk off the job Thursday.More than 36,000 nurses will strikeAn estimated 11,500 other healthcare workers, including senior doctors, dentists, social workers and others, will join themAn estimated 40,000 teachers will go on strike."The strike on 23 October by so many essential public service workforces shows the level of frustration workers are feeling," said New Zealand Nurses Association (NZNO) bargaining team member Debbie Handisides.They will represent several unions including the Public Service Association (PSA), NZNO, New Zealand Education Institute Te Riu Roa (NZEI) NZEI, Post Primary Teachers Association (PPTA Te Wehengarua) and Association of Salaried Medical Specialists (ASMS).Nurses and healthcare assistants strike outside Britomart Station in Auckland.Nurses have gone on strike in July as well. Photo: Wallace ChapmanWhere are there going to be protests?There will likely be some events Thursday outside schools and hospitals, but there are also many larger organised events.Marches and rallies are scheduled throughout the country, including a march in Wellington to Parliament with a rally at 1pm and a march down Queen Street in Auckland meeting in Aotea Square starting at 12pm.A full list of picket and rally event locations and times has been posted on union websites.How will this affect services?Many schools will be closed, and at hospitals, many non-emergency medical procedures will be delayed.Police said planning was well under way to ensure safety on Thursday."Members of the public may experience some delays when the protest is underway," a police spokesperson said."In Auckland march activity is expected around Queen Street and Te Komititanga Square from noon with disruption to traffic flow and traffic management in place. In Wellington march activity is expected from Queens Wharf to Parliament around noon with traffic management at key intersections."Is this actually the biggest strike in years?There is no way of knowing until the day itself, but it is shaping up to be.Victoria University professor of history Jim McAloon, who has extensively studied Aotearoa's labour history, said it is "quite likely, in terms of numbers of workers"."Indeed if you count it that way, it might be the biggest since the 1979 General Strike, a one-day protest against (former Prime Minister) Muldoon intervening in wage negotiations."That strike drew about 300,000 workers, he said.Healthcare workers hold placards at a picket line in Wellington earlier this year. Photo: RNZ/Samuel RillstoneWhat do the nurses and doctors want?Nurses have been negotiating their pay as well as concerns about staffing levels and safety for some time now and have been embroiled in negotiations since last year.A Public Service Commission spokesperson said that under the most recent offer, "nurses on the top step would have had a 2 percent increase in June 2025 - an extra $2135 per year - with another 1 percent increase in June next year".Under that June offer, a graduate nurse on $75,773 would have received a total 11 percent increase to take their salary to $84,150 by June 2026, the commission said.NZNO said that offers are below inflation rates, and said there is currently no new current offer or counter-offer on tap."Health NZ needs to listen to the voice of workers and come back to the bargaining table with an offer that provides for safer staffing levels, ends delays in recruiting new staff, and a better pay offer that reflects their value to the health system," PSA National Secretary Fleur Fitzsimons has said.Nurses have protested staffing levels, and say they are risky, said nurse Handisides."The coalition government is totally out of touch and refusing to listen. They don't understand what it's like to work in a hospital where you are constantly short-staffed."It puts the safety of our patients at risk. When there aren't enough nurses, care is delayed, and lives are put in danger. This is not a standard of care we trained for or that New Zealanders deserve."For senior doctors, the latest offer was for a salary increase of 5 percent over the 16-month term of the offer, with the ability to provide an additional increase for first-year specialists who would receive a $15,578 (8.4 percent) increase on base salary and all other salary related remuneration such as KiwiSaver. A $40 million fund is also proposed for distribution to senior doctors in recognition of the value of their work and to support the workforce.About 36,000 nurses, midwives and health care assistants also went on strike in July for 24 hours.What happens to medical services on Thursday?Health NZ told RNZ if it proceeds, the strike would see more than 900 procedures cancelled and more than 1380 first specialist assessments wiped from the schedule.Health New Zealand advises that on Thursday:all emergency departments will remain open but EDs will need to be kept for emergencies onlyif it is an emergency, call 111 immediatelyanyone unsure about whether they need emergency department care should contact their GP or call Healthline on 0800 611 116patients presenting to emergency departments with non-urgent conditions will likely experience significant delayspeople with non-urgent illnesses or injuries should contact their GP or other health providerto maintain patient/client safety, most clinic appointments will need to be rescheduled. However, if you have an appointment booked during the strikes, come to your appointment unless you are contacted directly to have your appointment rescheduledHospitals and healthcare services will continue to provide acute and emergency care - including maternity care, intensive care, mental health services, emergency department care, ambulance and district nursing services.patients in hospitals and facilities will continue to receive care.What do the teachers want?Meanwhile, teachers are seeking better pay and say offers are not meeting the rising costs of living.The Public Service Commission said that the latest offers to primary and secondary teachers would deliver a 4.7 percent increase within 12 months. It said the latest offer would mean 66 percent of primary teachers would be paid a base salary of at least $100,000 within 21 months of ratification, while 76 percent of secondary teachers would receive the same.The government is also spending $53 million to pay teachers' registration and levies, of up to $550 per teacher."PPTA has received - on 5 September and 10 October - a couple of offers from the government for settlement of the secondary teachers' settlement, but both fail to meet the needs of secondary teachers and students," PPTA president Chris Abercrombie said.Abercrombie said the offer included two pay rises - 2.5 percent after settlement and 2 percent 12 months after that - but no more until after the next bargaining started. He said that would probably mean up to 24 months with no further pay rises."In several ways it was worse than the previous offer, so we have proceeded with calling the strike action," he said.Teachers have also been holding rolling strike action since last week and they're also scheduled to halt teaching extracurricular activities on 29 October and another nationwide strike on 5 November from 1.15 to 3.15pm.Meanwhile, primary principals accepted an offer from the government this weekend. Primary Principals Collective Bargaining Union agreed to a 2.5 percent pay rise this year, followed by a 2.1 percent rise next year, after four months of negotiation with the Ministry of Education.So are my kids going to go to school Thursday?Most primary and secondary schools will be closed. Check with your own school for information.Prime Minister Christopher Luxon at a press conference in Auckland. Photo: MARIKA KHABAZI / RNZWhat does the government say?Luxon has said unions aren't coming to the negotiating table."Kiwis suffer when unions take this sort of action rather than getting around the table and bargaining and continuing to negotiate - which is what they should be doing."Health Minister Simeon Brown also said health workers "crossed an ethical line" with strike plans.He said patients were paying the price for the strike action, and accused the union of walking away from negotiations."Patients should never be collateral damage in disputes between management and unions."Education Minister Erica Stanford has also criticised the timing of the teacher strikes around NCEA exams which begin on 4 November."Those students who are going to miss out on days with these rolling strikes are about to go into their final exams," Stanford told Morning Report recently. "They need their teacher in front of them for that very last minute revision.""They are negotiating in bad faith. They wanted to go to a strike, and they've done that," she said."The fact that they're all doing this on the same date ... this is politics ahead of actually public service, which is what they should be about," Brown has said.Nurses on strike in North Shore, Auckland in July. Photo: RNZ/Calvin SamuelThere's been a lot of protests this year - why is that?The country has recorded at least 22 official work stoppages this year, The Detail reported."The government's message of restraint is not going down very well at all, and that is understandable in view of the serious inequalities of wealth and income which have become evident in recent decades," McAloon said."There are examples of people in fulltime employment resorting to food banks."What is particularly important in next week's strike is that it involves mostly public sector workers, whose pay and conditions are directly linked to government policies."For years, under both National-led and Labour-led governments, teachers and health sector workers have noted that their sectors are under severe pressure."McAloon said other factors are also in play, such as the government's changes to pay equity claims, persistently high food prices and changes to Jobseeker eligibility for 18- and 19-year-olds.Wagstaff rejected claims unions were putting politics ahead of public service, and said he believed it's actually the other way around."These workers have shown much patience for months and months to get a reasonable offer," Wagstaff said."Instead they have been mucked around and expected to keep services operating despite under resourcing and under staffing. It is a coordinated government attack on these workers that is putting politics ahead of public service - not teachers and nurses."

New Zealand’s ageing population is growing faster than its infrastructure can keep up, warns a new report from WSP and the Helen Clark Foundation.The study, Age-proofing Aotearoa: Rethinking our infrastructure for an ageing population, finds one in three New Zealanders could be 65 or older within decades.Author Kali Mercier says that shift is both a challenge and an opportunity.“With the right planning and investment, we can ensure older people live well – and that we’re building communities that work better for everyone.”The 65+ population is expected to surge from 870,000 in 2024 to as many as 2.5 million by 2078.But the report warns that aged-care beds, housing, and hospital capacity are falling behind.New Zealand could be short 12,000 aged-care beds by 2032, while home ownership among over-65s is projected to drop to 50% by 2040.Older people also face transport and design barriers that isolate them.The report calls for walkable, connected neighbourhoods, better public transport, and accessible homes to help maintain independence and manage long-term costs.WSP Head of Planning Rachel Lawson says urgent, joined-up planning is essential.“Adequate and appropriate infrastructure ensures that the period of life experienced by all New Zealanders during their ‘Third Age’ is characterised by dignity, opportunity, and personal choice.”For the Hibiscus Coast, where retirement villages and older residents already form a growing part of the community, the message hits close to home: prepare now, or risk the services and housing squeeze later.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.