Labour plans a 28% gains tax on most property sales from 1 July 2027, excluding family homes and farms.You pay capital gains tax only when you sell an asset for more than you paid. The taxable gain is the sale price minus what you paid and allowable costs. Holding an asset does not trigger tax.If this plan takes effect, Coasties selling rentals or other investment properties from 1 July 2027 would face a 28% tax on profit. Family homes would remain out of scope, as would farms.Key points:• Applies on sale, not while you hold.• Rate: 28% on the profit from eligible property.• Exclusions: family homes and farms.• Start date proposed: 1 July 2027.What it could change locally: timing. Some owners may weigh selling before the start date, keeping properties longer, or budgeting for tax at sale. Retirees planning to downsize an investment, parents freeing equity to help adult children, and small landlords reviewing cash flow will all need to run the numbers.Simple example: buy an investment property for $900k, sell later for $1m. Ignoring costs, the $100k gain would face a 28% tax, leaving $72k after tax. If you do not sell, no tax is due.For the Hibiscus Coast, where many households hold one rental as a nest egg, the after-tax return from a sale could be lower than expected after 1 July 2027. Plans to renovate, refinance, or sell may shift accordingly.Bottom line for Coasties: no sale, no tax. Sell an eligible property on or after 1 July 2027 and the profit would be taxed at 28% under Labour’s plan.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

Hibiscus Coast motorists using State Highway 1 will see traffic management near Wellsford as Watercare’s $38.3m wastewater plant upgrade pushes ahead, lifting treatment standards and preparing for growth.Foundational works are wrapped and wetland planting is underway at the Wellsford Wastewater Treatment Plant, which began its upgrade in November last year. The project introduces Membrane Aerated Biofilm Reactor and Membrane Bioreactor technologies to improve the quality of treated wastewater discharged into the Hōteo River.Watercare wastewater production manager Kenny Williamson says these processes treat wastewater to a much higher standard. “These treatment processes are highly effective at removing organic matter and nutrients, largely thanks to the microorganisms, or ‘bugs’, that do the heavy lifting. We simply create the right conditions for them to thrive.”He says membranes remove pathogens, and any that pass through are treated with ultraviolet disinfection so the final discharge meets stringent environmental standards.The upgrade supports future growth in Wellsford and Te Hana. Capacity lifts to about 3200 people, with design allowances for later expansion. “Wellsford is expected to be home to around 5000 people by 2052,” Williamson says.Construction is moving quickly, with most interconnecting pipework, valves and instrumentation well underway. Watercare chief programme delivery officer Suzanne Lucas says a seven-metre-diameter timber tank is installed to store water for firefighting, which is important given the plant’s relatively remote location. Work is advancing on the inlet section and the two-storey process building.A 1.3-hectare wetland around the site is being restored with native plants that help filter water naturally, stabilise soil and prevent erosion. “So far, we’ve replanted about 70 per cent of the wetland,” Lucas says. By month’s end, 15,718 plants are expected to be in the ground.Desludging of the oxidation pond is due in the coming months. Cold commissioning is planned for early next year, with the upgraded plant targeted to be in service by the middle of next year. Traffic management remains in place approximately 300 metres on either side of the site entrance on State Highway 1, around 2.5km outside Wellsford, to manage high truck movements. “We appreciate the community’s patience and understanding as we work to increase the plant’s capacity and ensure its long-term sustainability,” Lucas says.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

A general practitioner warns the country's hospitals and doctor clinics are already strained, and would not cope with a measles outbreak.On Thursday, healthcare workers were part of a nationwide strike, concerned that poor working conditions and staff shortages were putting patients at risk.Eight cases of measles have been confirmed and health officials have warned of the risk of an outbreak.Immunisation Advisory Centre senior adviser Mamaeroa David said hospitals and family doctors would not cope, if there was an outbreak."Our hospital systems are overwhelmed and not coping already, and as a GP in the community, our waiting times are 3-4 weeks," David said. "I've been a GP for 11 years and it has never been that long."The perfect storm continues to build and it's frightening. My biggest concern is we're going to start actually losing children to measles this round."In 2019, a series of measles outbreaks resulted in more than 2000 people contracting the virus and more than 700 needing hospital care.Auckland was the worst-hit region with 1736 cases.The consequences were devastating for Samoa, when a person contagious with measles travelled there, resulting in 5700 cases and 83 deaths."Some of those were children in the same family, so it was horrific," David said. "They're kind of erased from our memory, because then COVID-19 came along... but I have not forgotten that and my colleagues at Middlemore Hospital have not forgotten that outbreak."She said, if there was another measles outbreak and people could not get prompt appointments with their family doctor, more people would need hospital care."We can't always predict which children will get sick or unwell. These kiddies need 24-hour care to get them through the worst and out the other side."It takes a lot of care to look after kids with measles."A Ministry of Health update to the Minister of Health Simeon Brown on measles preparedness in May said vaccine coverage was below the level required to prevent widespread outbreaks.At least 95 percent coverage is needed to achieve herd immunity, which prevents community spread, but the latest stats show 82 percent of the population are covered.The update also said there were other gaps and the country was at "high risk" of an outbreak that would put pressure on the health system."Given existing pressures across the system, it remains likely that a large and/or prolonged epidemic would create considerable pressure on the health system that would likely require additional funding and redirection of existing resources."The update said improving immunisation had been a key focus area.David said a vaccination drive was needed to make immunisation against measles accessible for all communities."The No.1 resource that we need to be pouring into is vaccination. Those community days, weekends and after-hours vaccination services that we did during COVID are very much what we need everywhere."She said the vaccine was safe to administer, including to babies at six months."We have a very effective vaccine that will stop these kids from getting measles."I don't want to imagine the nightmare of another 2019 outbreak, the number of children who would have needed intensive care... and the enormous fear we're not going to get away with a zero death rate this time."

Dialysis patients on the North Shore and in West Auckland will soon have better access to life-saving treatment, with 35 upgraded machines and new evening dialysis sessions rolling out, Health Minister Simeon Brown says.The Community Dialysis Centre in Albany will receive 21 of the new machines, while 14 have already been installed at Waitākere Hospital. The upgrades replace older equipment and make it easier for patients to receive treatment closer to home, especially for those commuting from the Hibiscus Coast.Evening dialysis will also be introduced at Waitākere, giving patients more flexibility to fit treatment around work, family, and daily life.“By extending operating hours, we’re not only reducing pressure on daytime capacity but offering greater flexibility for those juggling work, family, and other commitments,” Mr Brown says.The new dialysers offer “Haemodiafiltration-like” treatment that’s more effective and better tolerated, with fewer side effects such as low blood pressure.Mr Brown says improving dialysis access across the North Shore and West Auckland strengthens the region’s health system. “It provides life-saving, flexible, and patient-centred care, allowing more New Zealanders to receive treatment closer to home.”Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

If you’ve been dreaming about putting up a garden shed, sleepout, or small garage on the Hibiscus Coast, it just got a whole lot simpler.New setback rules have kicked in, meaning you can now build single-storey detached buildings closer to your boundary without needing building consent. The old rule—where a shed had to be as far from your fence as it was tall—has been scrapped.That means small sheds under 10 square metres can now sit right up to the boundary, and larger ones between 10 and 30 square metres only need a one-metre gap.Regulation Minister David Seymour says the change came after hearing from frustrated homeowners through the Red Tape Tipline. “No one wants to put their shed in the middle of their lawn or pay for a consent to store tools,” he said.Building Minister Chris Penk added that it’s good news for property owners, builders, and local companies that make modular sheds and workshops. “We’re cutting bureaucracy so Kiwis can make practical improvements to their own backyards.”Homeowners will still need to follow the Building Code and local district plans, but the change makes smaller projects faster and cheaper to complete.So, if you’ve been putting off that shed project, now’s the time to dust off your plans.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

Welcome to The Week That Was.Your go-to recap of important news, stories, and updates for the Hibiscus Coast community.Auckland’s Armageddon Turns 30 With Epic LineupRead more →Labour Day Monday: Who’s Open, Who’s ClosedRead more →Silverdale Pioneer Festival Returns Bigger Than EverRead more →Big Manly, Tindalls: New Rules for Dog WalkersRead more →Your Coast. Your news. Your app.Download the Hibiscus Coast App for instant local updates. Anytime, anywhere.

Police are warning Hibiscus Coast businesses to stay alert after several recent attempts to obtain goods fraudulently.Detective Sergeant Mark Renfree from Waitematā CIB says there have been four cases in recent weeks where someone has called hardware-type stores, placed large orders, and tried to charge them to a legitimate company’s account.“Once approved, the scammer has sent an Uber driver to collect the items,” he says. “They’re not only committing fraud, but dragging innocent drivers into it.”The investigation is ongoing, but Police say the pattern is clear and local businesses should take steps to protect themselves.“Our message is simple: don’t allow anyone to charge items to an account without verifying them and obtaining identification,” says Detective Sergeant Renfree. “Anyone purchasing goods should know the company details they’re charging to.”Police recommend businesses:Verify all phone orders, especially from unknown callersCross-check contact details with official recordsHold goods until the order is confirmed by a known contactReport suspicious activity to Police“Be vigilant and cross-check all details,” Renfree says. “And most importantly, don’t hand over anything until you’re sure it’s correct.”Suspicious behaviour can be reported online at 105.police.govt.nz or anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

Kiwis will soon be able to build granny flats up to 70 square metres without needing a building consent, following new legislation passed this week to unlock more housing options.RMA Reform and Housing Minister Chris Bishop says the change cuts through red tape to make it faster and cheaper for families to add small dwellings on their properties.“It’s currently far too hard to build the homes New Zealanders need, with even the simplest dwellings requiring complicated and costly consent processes,” he says.The exemption, part of the Government’s Q4 Action Plan, is designed to boost supply and lower living costs by adding roughly 13,000 new granny flats nationwide over the next decade. Building and Construction Minister Chris Penk says it’s also a win for the construction sector. “Local councils will be freed up to focus their attention on more complex building work where the need for inspection and thorough consenting is much greater.”The new rule will apply to simple standalone dwellings meeting Building Code standards and built by authorised professionals. Homeowners will still need to notify councils before and after construction.On the Hibiscus Coast, the change could open doors for families wanting to house relatives, support young adults, or create extra income through small rentals.The exemption takes effect in early 2026, with official templates and guidance due out before summer so homeowners can start planning now.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

Coasties who’ve made the trip to Albany since Popeyes opened there in July 2025 won’t have to travel much longer.The fast-food chain has confirmed a new restaurant for Dairy Flat, bringing its world-famous Louisiana-style fried chicken, biscuits, and sides closer to the Hibiscus Coast.Popeyes first arrived in New Zealand in 2024 and has quickly become a hit, with fans lining up for hours at each new launch.Founded in New Orleans in 1972, the brand now operates more than 4,300 restaurants worldwide and 10 across New Zealand, with another 10 expected to open in 2026.The new Dairy Flat store is already hiring, with job listings live now at popeyes.careercentre.net.nzApplications close Saturday, October 25.That means it won’t be long before those unmistakable orange boxes and southern flavours become part of the local food mix.Perfect for Coasties looking for a new dinner option after the school run or weekend sport.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

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.