Welcome to The Week That Was.Your go-to recap of important news, stories, and updates for the Hibiscus Coast community.New Chatterbox Seat Brings Conversations to OrewaRead more →How Smart Structuring Turns Bad Debt Into Tax WinsRead more →Auckland House Prices Slide Again—Buyers Hold PowerRead more →Brynderwyn Hills to Close for Two “Super Weekends”Read more →Snowplanet to Honour GrabOne Vouchers After CollapseRead more →Your Coast. Your news. Your app.Download the Hibiscus Coast App for instant local updates. Anytime, anywhere.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

The Government says more people are finding work despite ongoing economic challenges, with new Ministry of Social Development data showing a 6% rise in main benefit recipients moving into jobs compared with the June 2025 quarter.That’s 20,775 people who left benefits for employment.The Minister for Social Development and Employment, Louise Upston, asserts that the data signifies "independence, security, and lives transformed" for thousands of families.The figures include a 6.9% increase in exits from Jobseeker Support and a small drop in young people receiving that payment.While total benefit numbers have risen as forecast, Upston says employment conditions are expected to improve later in the year.The Ministry has expanded its frontline and phone-based case management to support 10,000 more people at a time, alongside Kōrero Mahi seminars that help jobseekers with CVs, interview preparation, and finding suitable roles.“These small things can make all the difference,” she says.“We know many New Zealanders are still doing it tough, and that’s why we’re focused on practical, hands-on support while people seek employment.”For the Hibiscus Coast, where many residents commute into Auckland for employment, the continued focus on job placement and workforce support helps sustain local households and keeps the region’s economy moving.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

Secondary teachers have voted to strike again, with schools across the Hibiscus Coast expected to shut their doors on Thursday, October 23.The Post Primary Teachers’ Association (PPTA) confirmed members backed a full-day national strike after negotiations with the Government broke down.That will be followed by a ban on extracurricular activities on Wednesday, October 29 and a two-hour nationwide strike from 1.15pm to 3.15pm on Wednesday, November 5.For local schools, it means no classes on Thursday, October 23.PPTA president Chris Abercrombie said teachers are reaching breaking point as workloads climb and support systems fall short.“Keeping up with constant change is one of the biggest stress factors for teachers in New Zealand,” he said.PPTA president Chris Abercrombie. Photo: RNZThe industrial action adds pressure for Coast families juggling routines disrupted by earlier rolling strikes.Meanwhile, the Government has announced fresh funding to keep the Bikes in Schools programme rolling.Transport Minister Chris Bishop says $3.5 million from the NZ Transport Agency will help more primary and intermediate students learn cycling safety skills and access on-site bike tracks through to June 2027.“Bike riding is a really useful skill for life, and we want to make sure Kiwi kids get the chance to learn how to ride safely from a young age,” he said.For Coast schools already part of the programme, it’s welcome news amid a turbulent term.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

Food prices fall 0.4 pct in September, annual rise eases to 4.1 pctAnnual rate lowest since March this yearGrocery prices driver of annual food inflation - dairy, meatFuel, airfares, accommodation, energy prices edge higherNumbers suggest annual inflation headed to 3 pct - due next weekConsumer inflation looks set to test the 3 percent level next week after new data showed higher food, transport, and energy prices.Stats NZ said food prices fell 0.4 percent in September on the previous month, slowing the annual rise to a five-month low of 4.1 percent."All five food groups continue to grow annually but the rate of increase for overall food prices has slowed this month," prices and deflators spokesperson Nicola Growden said.Prices for grocery items such as dairy, bread, and eggs rose, but off their highs, rising 3.9 percent annually, followed by a 6.4 percent increase for meat and poultry, and a 2.5 percent gain for restaurant and takeaway meals.Fruit and vegetable prices rose 5.2 percent for the year, reflecting usual seasonal supply pressures with cabbages and lettuces among notable price increases.Transport costs rose in September with petrol pump prices rising along with airfares and accommodation.The items cover just under half of the consumers price index, with latest data for the three months ending September due next week.ANZ senior economist Miles Workman expected a quarterly rise of 1.1 percent, taking the annual rate to 3.1 percent from 2.7 percent in June."Accelerating tradable inflation - the more volatile side of the CPI (consumers price index) - is expected to push headline inflation higher."He said household costs driven by rates and ACC levies would add to food prices and airfares as the main drivers.Workman said the RBNZ would not be unduly "spooked" by headline inflation going through the top of its 1-3 percent target band and would be counting on underlying inflation pressures caused by the slack economy to ease over time.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

The Blues Board has confirmed Karl Budge as the club’s new Chief Executive Officer, bringing over 20 years of international sports leadership experience to the Auckland-based Super Rugby franchise.Budge is best known for his transformative tenure as CEO of the ASB Classic, where he repositioned the event as New Zealand’s premier summer tournament.More recently, through his company Octosport Partners, he helped drive commercial growth and fan engagement for the New Zealand Olympic Committee and SailGP across the Asia-Pacific region.His background spans both domestic and global sporting codes, with a track record of sustainable growth and commercial innovation.He has also contributed to the wider rugby landscape as a commercial sub-committee board member and secondee to the New Zealand Rugby Board.Budge says leading the Blues is a privilege and an opportunity to build on a proud legacy.“This club is built on a rich history and has a deep connection to its community across Auckland, North Harbour, and Northland,” he said.“My focus will be on ensuring we continue to grow and support a world-class high performance environment, connecting deeply with our fans, and ultimately delivering the success they deserve.”Blues Chair Don Mackinnon said Budge’s mix of commercial acumen and leadership credibility made him the right fit for the next phase.“Karl brings a proven track record of driving significant, sustainable commercial growth in competitive global environments,” Mackinnon said.Budge will start in the New Year, with director Andy Roberts continuing as interim CEO.For rugby fans on the Hibiscus Coast, his appointment signals fresh energy and a renewed focus on connecting the Blues’ regional heartlands.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

Making plans?Here’s what’s coming up around the Hibiscus Coast. From live music and local markets to family fun and outdoor adventures.Shaun Johnson Book Signing in WhangaparaoaSat 18 OctClick here for more detailsOrewa Beach Farmers MarketSun 19 OctClick here for more detailsDigital SeniorsWed 22 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.

Motorists on the Hibiscus Coast should plan for overnight road closures on State Highway 1 and State Highway 18 next week.On Sunday 19 October, SH1 will close northbound between Constellation Drive and Oteha Valley Road from 10pm to 5am for maintenance. Several ramps and links will also close, including:Constellation Drive northbound on-rampGreville Road northbound off- and on-rampsOteha Valley Road northbound off-rampSH18 eastbound to SH1 northbound linkDrivers should detour via Paul Matthews Road, Bush Road, Albany Expressway and Oteha Valley Road. The work will run alongside SH18 maintenance between Albany Highway and Paul Matthews Road, which will be closed eastbound at the same time.On Wednesday 22 October, the Oteha Valley Road southbound off-ramp will be closed from 9pm to 5am for Auckland Transport works.Then on Thursday 23 October, SH1’s Greville Road southbound on-ramp will close between 9pm and 5am for loop cutting. Motorists can use alternative on-ramps at Oteha Valley Road or Constellation Drive.Locals travelling overnight should allow extra time and expect short delays, with detours through Albany likely to add several minutes to usual travel.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

Auckland’s final local election results will now be released after 10am on Saturday 18 October, a day later than planned, after officials received an unprecedented number of special votes.More than 68,500 votes were cast by Saturday morning, lifting voter turnout to 28.8 percent across the region. But with over 10,000 special votes to validate, Auckland Council says the count will take longer than expected.The verification process ensures all special votes meet legal requirements before they can be included in the official tally. Council says accuracy takes priority over speed, given the high volume and the importance of every vote.The delay affects final results for all local races, including mayoral, council, and local board contests.For Hibiscus Coast voters waiting on results for the Rodney Local Board, final numbers will now be confirmed this weekend once all checks are complete.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

Hours after news broke that GrabOne has gone into liquidation, Snowplanet has come forward with a promise to look after affected customers.The popular indoor snow park says it will honour all valid GrabOne Snowplanet vouchers, even though it’s unlikely to be reimbursed by the failed deal site’s parent company, Global Marketplace New Zealand Limited.General Manager Rojie Aguilar said the team only found out about GrabOne’s collapse when a customer called this morning.“We don’t want our customers to suffer because of something beyond their control,” he said.“Even though we may not be reimbursed, we’re standing by our core value to provide awesome snow experiences 365 days a year.”Read more: GrabOne GoneThat means Coasties with unredeemed Snowplanet vouchers can still make bookings as normal.Vouchers remain valid until their printed expiry date, with bookings accepted over the phone or by email using the same 9-digit codes.For more information, contact [email protected] or call (09) 427 0166.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

Many Coasties will be disappointed to hear that GrabOne, the once-popular online deals site, has shut down after its parent company went into liquidation.Today, Calibre Partners were appointed liquidators of Global Marketplace New Zealand Limited, the company behind GrabOne.Funding troubles forced the business to stop trading immediately, and the liquidators have begun selling its assets.That means no new or existing deals will be promoted while the process unfolds.GrabOne was launched in 2010 and became a familiar part of Kiwi life, offering discounts on goods and services for local businesses across the country.It was sold to Global Marketplace New Zealand by former owner NZME in 2021 for $17.5 million.For anyone holding unredeemed vouchers, refunds won’t be available.Customers will need to contact individual merchants to find out whether their vouchers will still be honoured.The liquidators confirmed that any existing agreements remain between consumers and the company, not them.GrabOne has long been part of daily life for many locals, known for its discounted meals, weekend getaways and family activities.Its closure marks the end of a familiar way to snap up bargains across the Hibiscus Coast and beyond.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

Coasties, here’s what the next four days have in store:Friday, 17/10Fine with light sou’west winds.High: 19Low: 10Saturday, 18/10Mostly cloudy with a steady nor’wester.High: 20Low: 13Sunday, 19/10Afternoon showers and breezy nor’wester.High: 21Low: 11Monday, 20/10Sunny with light southwesterlies.High: 19Low: 12See 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.

A 179MW solar farm planned for Glorit, on the Kaipara Coast north of Kaukapakapa, has been granted resource consent and a notice of requirement by an independent panel, clearing the way for one of Auckland’s largest renewable energy developments.The Glorit solar farm will span 283 hectares of a 300-hectare site and include an energy storage system, a 33kV transmission line, and a new substation.Once operational, it’s expected to generate enough electricity to power around 33,000 homes each year.Developed by Lightsource bp and Contact Energy in partnership with Transpower, the project has an expected lifespan of at least 35 years.The consent decision comes 150 working days after the application was lodged with the Environmental Protection Authority, which managed the process but did not make the final call.Assessed under the now-repealed Natural and Built Environment Act 2023, rather than the newer fast-track legislation, the project marks a significant investment in local renewable infrastructure.For the Hibiscus Coast and surrounding areas, it’s another sign of momentum in the shift toward cleaner, more reliable energy that will strengthen Auckland’s grid and support future growth.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

New Zealand's pension system has been ranked 17th out of 52 in a new global comparison, with a warning that although the country faces questions about covering the cost, it is not the only one.The Mercer Global Pension Index ranked New Zealand's superannuation and KiwiSaver combined a B for adequacy - which reflects how much income people receive in retirement; a B for sustainability - which covers how affordable the scheme is; and an A for integrity - how much the scheme can be trusted.It said the country could lift the score by increasing the level, coverage and tax efficiency of KiwiSaver contributions, as well as raising the age of NZ Super, increasing New Zealand households' savings and introducing a credit or contribution for people who are off work caring for young children."New Zealand is one of the few countries that does not give tax concessions for preparing for retirement," report author and Mercer partner Tim Jenkins said.It said New Zealand should also focus on retirement income as the primary purpose of KiwiSaver and improve the decumulation options available to draw down the money when people retire.The countries with the top-rated systems were the Netherlands, Iceland, Denmark, Singapore and Israel.While there have been questions about whether NZ Super was sustainable, Jenkins said it was not alone in that. Other countries had even more urgent problems to fix.Austria, Brazil and Italy all scored an E for sustainability for their schemes. France and Germany had an A for adequacy but a D for sustainability.Jenkins said New Zealand had improved on every measure in the latest index update, but other countries had increased more quickly.Sustainability had improved on the basis of economic data published by the IMF that no longer included some of the Covid years.He said New Zealand was in the top third of the countries surveyed - "just" - with a relatively low score for income adequacy.The report looks at how much the average wage earner receives as retirement income. It seeks a benchmark of 70 percent of pre-retirement income."NZ Super is okay," he said. "But KiwiSaver is below average adequacy. It's voluntary with relatively low contribution rates."He said people who were in roles where they were offered a total salary package had less incentive to contribute because they were paying for their employer's contributions, too.Lower-income people and those not in work were also being left behind.Jenkins said thought could be given to decoupling employer and employee contributions to an extent, and introducing a minimum contribution for low-income people."To help them accumulate private savings on top of NZ Super… for people who can't afford to contribute 3.5 percent or 4 percent, they don't get the extra 3.5 percent or 4 percent."He said as people lived longer, thought also needed to be given to how retirement settings responded."If you're retired for 20 years from 65 that's very different from 10 years. Countries around the world are starting the debate about whether state pension ages should increase."He said adequacy and sustainability could be addressed together by looking at KiwiSaver and NZ Super as a package.In Australia it is possible to access super savings before the pension age, which allows people to retire earlier if they need to - such as when they work a manual job."There is mood for change, and the time is right," Jenkins said. "KiwiSaver is 18 years old - when there's a birthday like that it's time to step back and consider what we could do. The world on Tuesday is different to 20 years ago."

Coast women aged 70 to 74 can now book a free breast screening, with the first step of a nationwide age extension now underway.Until now, the free programme covered women aged 45 to 69.Each October for the next three years, eligibility will rise by one year until it reaches 74.That means more Coast mums, aunties and nanas can stay on top of their health with regular mammograms close to home.Health Minister Simeon Brown says the move will help catch more cancers early and save lives.“This expansion means up to 130,000 extra women will be eligible once it’s fully rolled out,” he said.Women’s Minister Nicola Grigg says screening remains the best defence.“Around 3,400 New Zealand women are diagnosed with breast cancer each year. Screening gives women a far better chance of successful treatment,” she said.Health New Zealand is also adding more trained staff, upgrading equipment and opening new mobile screening units, which will make it easier for Coast women to book and attend appointments.If you or someone you love is now eligible, it could be a good time to make that booking and stay well for all the moments that matter most.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

Auckland Council’s first in-house dog desexing clinic is making a real dent in the city’s dog overpopulation problem, completing 475 procedures in under five months.Led by veterinarian Dr Roz Holland, the clinic has desexed 229 male and 246 female dogs free of charge, with another 140 waiting to be seen. Funded through infringement fees from unregistered dog owners, the programme ensures responsible owners aren’t footing the bill.“Everyone involved in dog control and welfare knows the key issue is overpopulation,” Dr Holland says.“Desexing is vital, but cost and transport are barriers for many people. This role appealed to me because it removes those barriers and delivers real impact.”Dr Holland brings international experience from Peru, India, the South Pacific, the US and New Zealand. She says the early results show momentum building. “This programme is targeted, well-planned, and focused on the communities where it’s needed most.”The need is urgent. Auckland Council receives more than 15,000 reports of roaming dogs each year, up 50 percent since 2020, and records over 1,300 dog attacks on people annually.Animal Management Manager Elly Waitoa says the clinic is helping turn the tide. “Roaming dogs and overpopulation have become overwhelming for communities across Auckland. Bringing Roz and the team onboard has given us new tools to respond.”The clinic is part of a wider council strategy that includes:Targeted desexing in high-risk areasTougher action on irresponsible ownersDog registration drivesAwareness campaigns like “For you, your dog and your neighbours.”For families on the Hibiscus Coast, the approach could help reduce roaming dog issues locally while supporting safer, more responsible pet ownership citywide.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

Four people face serious drug and firearm charges after police found methamphetamine ingredients, clan lab equipment, and loaded guns in coordinated raids across Mangawhai Heads, Massey, and Kumeu.Waitematā Police, including the Armed Offenders Squad, carried out the simultaneous searches early Tuesday, 14 October, uncovering a large-scale meth operation.At Mangawhai Heads, officers seized two kilograms of ephedrine along with materials and tools used to manufacture meth.Two people were arrested on site.Information from that scene led detectives to Massey and then to a third location in Kumeu, where they discovered clan lab equipment, a loaded double-barrel shotgun, a loaded Glock, and an unloaded rifle.Several people were detained nearby, with two later charged.Detective Sergeant Ray Fa’aofo said the coordinated effort paid off.“The planning, preparation, and quick actions of staff ensured the success of these warrants. I’m very pleased we intercepted some of the production and supply of illicit drugs entering our community and took firearms off the streets,” he said.Those charged include:• A 41-year-old man (Auckland District Court, 12 December) facing multiple firearms and drug equipment offences.• A 46-year-old man (North Shore District Court, 15 October) charged with manufacturing methamphetamine and related offences.• A 32-year-old man (Waitakere District Court, 15 October) charged with possession of meth for supply.• A 45-year-old woman (North Shore District Court, 15 October) charged with manufacturing methamphetamine.Police urge anyone with information on drug activity to call 111 if urgent, 105 after the fact, or Crime Stoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

For Coasties who’d love to swap the office for the outdoors, a new Department of Conservation cadetship could be just the ticket. The Te Pū Hono programme will train the next generation of rangers through hands-on work protecting New Zealand’s wild places from day one.Applications open 20 October 2025 for the 30-month paid training course, with the first ten cadets starting in January 2026 at DOC’s Renwick Base in Marlborough. Once established, ten new cadets will be recruited each year.Cadets will learn everything from trapping and weed control to maintaining huts, tracks, and backcountry sites. They’ll also take on specialist placements and rugged field trips across the motu that test endurance and teamwork.DOC Monitoring and Insights Director Karl Beckert says the programme is about investing in the future of conservation.“Our economic future is reliant on nature going strong. It’s vital we develop the next generation of conservation workers and set them up well for a long conservation career,” he says.Beckert says cadets will play a key role in tackling issues like habitat loss, climate change, and invasive species.For Coasties passionate about the outdoors, it’s a chance to turn that love for nature into a lifelong career.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

Ōrewa will be at the centre of New Zealand’s largest ShakeOut earthquake drill this Thursday, with more than 730,000 people across the country signed up to take part at 9.30 am.The national drill and tsunami evacuation aims to help communities prepare for natural disasters, with this year’s official event hosted at Ōrewa Beach Primary School. Students and staff will lead the way in practising “Drop, Cover, Hold,” followed by a tsunami walk to their local safe zone.“Emergency preparation starts with all of us. First you, then your family, then your community,” says John Price, Director of Civil Defence Emergency Management at NEMA.Auckland Emergency Management General Manager Adam Maggs says ShakeOut is a simple way for everyone to get ready. “It’s important for people in Auckland to know what to do if an earthquake or tsunami happens, so I encourage all Aucklanders to take part,” he says.Families, schools, and workplaces on the Hibiscus Coast are encouraged to join the drill or walk their local evacuation routes. ShakeOut is self-run, so each group can decide how they take part. From a quick office drill to a full neighbourhood walk.To register and learn more, visit https://getready.govt.nz/involved/shakeoutSeen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

Health authorities are warning that measles cases are spreading again in New Zealand, with two new infections confirmed in Northland this week, bringing the regional total to 12. Experts say the risk of further outbreaks remains high, as overseas travellers continue to bring the virus home.Around 80 percent of New Zealanders are immune, well short of the 95 percent coverage needed to stop the disease from spreading. Measles is among the most contagious viruses in the world, spreading through the air or by touching contaminated surfaces.Across the globe, cases are rising sharply in Australia, South-east Asia, the US, Canada and the UK. Almost all of our previous outbreaks started with unvaccinated travellers returning from overseas, health officials say.Measles can cause serious complications, such as pneumonia, diarrhoea, and brain swelling. One in three people infected will need hospital care, and young children, pregnant people, and those with weakened immune systems are most at risk.Coasties are urged to check their immunisation records to ensure children have received both doses of the MMR vaccine. Anyone travelling overseas should also make sure they’re fully protected before they go.If you suspect measles symptoms, including fever, runny nose, cough, sore eyes, or rash — call your GP, Healthline (0800 611 116), or 111 in an emergency. Early advice helps protect family, friends, and the wider community.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.