Hibiscus Coast locals who own Canyon e-bikes are advised to inspect their battery casings for cracks following a recent safety advisory.Canyon Bicycles GmbH has issued a warning after finding that certain battery models may pose a fire risk if moisture seeps into cracked casings, potentially leading to battery instability or, in extreme cases, fire hazards.The affected batteries—models BT001, BT002, BT003, and BT004—are used in Canyon’s Spectral, CFR, Torque, CF, and Spectral, CF e-bike models sold directly through Canyon’s website from January 2022 to November 2024.All other models are unaffected, and these batteries are removable from the bike frame.Canyon encourages owners to carefully check their batteries for signs of cracking.If any are found, owners should dispose of the batteries following local council guidelines for safe disposal.Canyon also offers an inspection service for customers, accessible through video chat or by submitting photos of the batteries for professional assessment.The company’s internal investigation and risk assessment categorised the likelihood of injury as high, stressing the importance of timely checks.For assistance, contact Canyon Australia and New Zealand via their website.

Contactless payments are coming to Auckland's busses, trains and ferries this weekend.An Auckland Transport webpage says payments using a credit or debit card, or a smartphone or smartwatch, will be accepted from Sunday 17 November.Payments using an AT hop card will still be accepted.Using a card or smart device to pay automatically charges the full adult fare - people still need to use their AT HOP card to access concessions on fares or the $50 7-day fare cap.Card readers have been updated on busses, trains and ferries to accept contactless payment, by tapping a card to the reader to tag on and off.Auckland Transport is expected to make an announcement about the change on Friday.It is the first step towards a national ticketing system on public transport, expected to begin its roll-out in Canterbury next year, with Auckland expected to join the system in 2026.Auckland's Deputy Mayor, Desley Simpson, said contactless payments will be a "game changer" for Aucklanders."It takes away that barrier of, 'where do I get a HOP card, have I got one, has it got enough money on it?'""This is just tap and go, so I think it'll be fantastic for Auckland, fantastic for public transport, and take yet another barrier down for those people who are concerned about using public transport."She said regular users and visitors to Auckland will now be able to jump on board without the admin of needing a pre-paid card."Our visitors come from outside of Auckland and ofcourse from offshore. So often they're saying, 'well how do we use public transport here?'""This is just so easy for them, to be able to tap their eftpos card and off they'll go."National co-ordinator of the Public Transport Users Association, Jon Reeves, said it'll make it easier to take public transport."Well this is actually fantastic, because it'll allow more people to consider using public transport, and those who already use it may find it faster now to board on trains and ferries."It might also benefit tourists, who come to the city and don't have HOP cards, and they can just pay with their contactless system."Reeves hopes more people will get onboard a public transport now that HOP cards aren't a requirement."Anything that makes public transport more user friendly is a bonus and hopefully attracts more people, so this contactless system may attract more people onto busses, trains and ferries," he said.

The Government’s latest Tax and Social Policy Work Programme, unveiled by Revenue Minister Simon Watts, outlines a strategic approach to strengthening New Zealand’s economy and improving public service funding.In the face of recent economic challenges, the Government aims to reduce tax complexity, minimise compliance costs, and address tax integrity issues, especially for small businesses and local enterprises.“New Zealand has been grappling with significant economic challenges over the last few years with many businesses and households feeling the impact,” Mr Watts said. He added that the Government remains committed to supporting businesses and residents while focusing on fiscal responsibility.The policy framework introduces six core workstreams: economic growth and productivity, tax integrity, system modernisation, international connections, social policy, and cross-agency initiatives. According to Mr Watts, easing tax obligations could allow businesses to flourish, with examples such as simplifying rules for non-resident contractors and advancing digital tax administration. “We want New Zealand to be a place where our businesses can grow, prosperity can flourish, overseas businesses want to invest, and talented people want to migrate to,” he said.Key priorities include easing compliance for small businesses, supporting family-friendly policies like FamilyBoost, and considering a tax exemption for the New Zealand Superannuation Fund to potentially enhance retirement savings.The full Tax and Social Policy Work Programme can be accessed at the Inland Revenue’s official website.

Welcome to This Week’s News Recap!Catch up on the top local stories from the past week before the weekend hits.We’ve rounded up the must-know headlines so you’re fully informed about our community.Missed something or just need a quick update? We’ve got you covered.Dive into this week’s key events now!NZ Post will not deliver to individual mailboxes in the Ara Hills developmentRead more Job Opportunity: Telephone Account ManagerRead more Hallensteins Opens First Hibiscus Coast StoreRead moreWhangaparāoa residents fume as AT considers cutting ferry serviceRead more Orewa Beach Fashion Show Thrills Locals and Boosts BusinessRead more Stay Informed and Connected.Get all your local updates at your fingertips.From breaking news and local business finds to job listings and events—our app has it all.Don’t wait for the recap. Explore the Hibiscus Coast App now and stay ahead!

Police have recovered 33 mature cannabis plants after a van failed to stop for officers early yesterday morning.At around 12.30 am, a police unit patrolling Birkenhead noticed a van driving without its headlights on. When officers signalled for the vehicle to stop, the driver fled.Inspector Todd Moore-Carter, Acting Waitematā East Area Commander, confirmed that the van eventually stopped, but the driver ran into nearby bush. Police set up a perimeter, and a dog handler tracked the suspect, who was later located and taken into custody.A search of the van uncovered 33 mature cannabis plants, which were seized and will be destroyed.A 40-year-old man has been charged with failing to stop and cultivating cannabis. He is scheduled to appear in the North Shore District Court.“This was great work from all police staff involved,” said Inspector Moore-Carter. “A significant amount of cannabis is now out of the hands of dealers and no longer poses a threat to the community. We will continue to disrupt and prosecute those involved in the manufacture and distribution of illicit substances.”

Locals and travellers alike will enjoy a fresh take on Air New Zealand’s in-flight safety as Kiwi basketball star Steven Adams stars in the airline’s 23rd safety video, Every Point Counts.Known for his powerful on-court skills, Adams joins a group of young New Zealanders in a friendly game of basketball, set against some of New Zealand’s scenic coastal and urban backdrops.The video opens at the picturesque Orewa beach, showcasing New Zealand’s Pōhutukawa trees and sparkling waters.It then transitions to a vibrant outdoor court, where Adams encounters a group of kids who are thrilled as he effortlessly lands a full-court shot.The scene quickly builds, shifting from a beachside game to a stadium setting as Adams’ friendly competition with the young players continues.Air New Zealand’s Chief Executive Greg Foran expressed excitement over Adams’ participation, noting his inspiring journey from Rotorua to the global basketball stage as a fitting example for the video’s theme.“We’re thrilled to have Kiwi icon Steven Adams join the Air New Zealand safety video whānau,” Foran shared.“His rise from Rotorua to international basketball has inspired fans to chase their dreams, making him a perfect fit.”Foran added that the video’s approach aims to balance safety with entertainment, a signature feature for Air New Zealand.“An engaging safety video is what our customers expect, and basketball gave us the perfect angle for fun, interactive content,” he said.Observant basketball fans will enjoy subtle nods to the sport, including references to LeBron James and New Zealand’s growing enthusiasm for basketball.The new safety video debuts as the holiday season approaches, promising a memorable experience for Air New Zealand’s passengers on upcoming flights.Watch the video.

Watercare has announced a significant investment of approximately $500 million to enhance wastewater infrastructure on the Hibiscus Coast over the next decade, aiming to support the area’s rapid growth. A focal point of this project will be a major upgrade to the Army Bay Wastewater Treatment Plant, scheduled to be completed by 2031.The region has experienced considerable development, with roughly 800 new homes connecting to Watercare’s wastewater network each year. Watercare’s Chief Strategy and Planning Officer, Priyan Perera, noted that the treatment plant might reach capacity sooner than expected if growth continues at current rates. To manage this, the company will actively monitor and limit new connections to the network until the upgrade is in place.“We estimate we can connect up to 4,000 new homes before the treatment plant reaches capacity,” said Perera. “This means that anyone currently building or holding a building consent granted before 15 November 2024 will be able to connect when ready.” However, Perera urged developers with resource consents but without building consents to consult Watercare early to better understand the plant’s capacity, as connection requests will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.Starting 15 November, any new resource consent applications for homes or businesses in the area will include a condition that prevents connection to the public wastewater network until the Army Bay upgrade is complete.Watercare has listed this project in its Asset Management Plan with a completion target of 2031 but is exploring faster alternative upgrades. Updates on capacity and new connections will be published on the company’s website every six months.

Food prices fell 0.9% in October 2024 compared with the previous month, according to new data from Stats NZ. The largest contributor to the decline was a 7.2% drop in vegetable prices, partially offset by a 0.6% increase in fruit prices.Vegetable prices saw significant reductions in tomatoes, cucumbers, and capsicums, helping drive the overall decline. In contrast, fruit prices were higher due to increases in apples, oranges, and bananas.“Over the past two years, vegetable prices have dropped by 14.2%, while fruit prices have risen by 8.0%,” said Nicola Growden, a spokesperson for prices and deflators. "October saw lower prices for a variety of vegetables, but fruit prices were pushed up by higher costs for certain varieties."Other contributors to the monthly decline included drops in prices for instant coffee, yoghurt, and potato crisps. However, the decreases were partially offset by price increases in standard 2L milk and fruit juice.Despite the monthly fall, food prices saw a 1.2% increase over the year to October 2024, matching the rise seen in the 12 months to September 2024.This annual increase was primarily driven by higher costs for restaurant meals and ready-to-eat food, which were up 3.4%, and a 2.5% rise in grocery food prices.Restaurant meals, particularly lunch and brunch, takeaway coffees, and takeaway meals, were among the items that saw the largest increases.Meanwhile, grocery food prices were pushed higher by rising costs for olive oil, butter, and standard 2L milk. A 500g block of butter now costs an average of $6.67, up over one-third from last year. A 2L bottle of milk increased by around 9%, averaging $4.21.Despite these overall increases, the price drop in fruit and vegetables had the most significant impact on food prices. Fruit and vegetable prices were down 8.9% in the 12 months to October 2024.

Immigration authorities have received four complaints against an immigration adviser, and multiple teams are investigating her husband's company, directors and staff.RNZ reported on Tuesday a migrant recorded conversations with Heidi Castelucci in which she offered him a job and residence for $70,000.Richard Wu had a five-year visa when he started work at Liberty Consulting Group in Auckland in May, but lost his job two months later. He says he had already paid $18,000 to Castelucci, also known as Qian Yu, for what he thought was a genuine job.Her husband Toby Castelucci's company, listed as a migration consulting and service firm, remains accredited to recruit and employ migrants despite the complaints and investigations. He is its sole shareholder and director of Liberty Consulting Group.Until recently, he and his wife were listed as shareholders and directors of the New Zealand Language Institute and Foreign Exchange Program, based at the same office in Rosedale.He denied any wrongdoing in an emailed statement.Qian Yu/Heidi Castelucci has a provisional licence. Photo: Immigration Advisers Authority"Liberty Consulting disputes Wu's claims. It did not offer Wu any position after his employment ended, or to help him find a position with a different employer, in exchange for payment. It also did not receive any payment from Wu after his employment was terminated. Any such purportedly made to him was made without Liberty Consulting's knowledge or consent."As his concerns are the subject to formal complaints, it is not appropriate for Liberty Consulting to comment further at this time."Immigration Advisers Authority registrar Duncan Connor said Yu was not now able to practise as a licensed immigration adviser."The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) has various teams that are investigating the complaints regarding Liberty Consulting Limited, directors and staff."Ms Yu is currently unable to practise as a licensed immigration adviser as she holds a provisional licence and does not have a current supervisor or supervision agreement approved by the Registrar of the Immigration Advisers."Of the four current complaints about Yu, one has been referred to the Immigration Advisers Complaints and Disciplinary Tribunal for determination.Separately, a complaint was made about Liberty Consulting Group to the Immigration Compliance and Investigations team, and an investigation was initiated."During the investigation, the complainant chose not to engage with this team about the complaint and as a result, the investigation was closed as there was no longer a complainant," Connor said."However, the Immigration Compliance and Investigations team shared the information with MBIE's Labour Inspectorate, which they will be investigating. The Inspectorate cannot comment further at this stage."He urged anyone with further information or complaints about Liberty Consulting Group or Heidi Castelucci to email the IAA at [email protected], Immigration Compliance and Investigation at [email protected] or to call the Labour Inspectorate on 0800 200 088."The IAA, the Immigration Compliance and Investigations team and the Labour Inspectorate team all operate within MBIE,r and where appropriate these teams will share information and work together to investigate any allegations of migrant exploitation."

Looking ahead, Coasties can expect the next four days to bring the following:Friday - 15/11Rain. Breezy to brisk Northerly winds.High: 20Low: 15Saturday - 16/11Partly cloudy. Breezy to brisk Sou'West winds.High: 18Low: 13Sunday - 17/11Morning showers. Fairly breezy East to Sou'East winds.High: 18Low: 13Monday - 18/11Partly cloudy. Fairly breezy Easterly winds.High: 19Low: 13Get real-time weather updates, tide information, wind conditions, wave forecasts, recommended swimming areas, and lots more.Anytime, anywhere – everything you need is inside the Hibiscus Coast App.

The Gull petrol station in Millwater has been temporarily closed for upgrades, with plans to reopen by tomorrow.The closure is part of a planned transition to Premium 95 fuel and the installation of new dispensers.The station’s existing fuel system is being replaced with the Premium 95, and new pump dispensers are being installed.The upgraded dispensers will feature new hoses, allowing drivers to refuel from either side, improving accessibility and reducing wait times at the pumps.These improvements are intended to enhance the customer experience, making refuelling faster and more convenient for locals.Gull aims to have the station fully operational and ready to serve the community again by tomorrow.

The government has committed up to $60 million to investigate the potential of supercritical geothermal technology (SCGT) as part of its strategy to secure the country's long-term energy supply. Regional Development Minister Shane Jones and Science, Innovation, and Technology Minister Judith Collins made the announcement, confirming that the funding will come from the Regional Infrastructure Fund.SCGT offers the possibility of significantly higher energy output compared to conventional geothermal sources, potentially generating up to three times more energy. Unlike current geothermal wells, which are typically drilled to depths of about 3.5km, SCGT exploration involves drilling to depths of up to 6km."The potential of SCGT is immense, both for New Zealand and globally," said Mr Jones. "If successful, it could dramatically increase our renewable energy capacity, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and supporting our transition to more sustainable energy sources."An initial $5 million of the funding will be used for designing and assessing the feasibility of drilling the first of three exploratory deep wells in the Taupō Volcanic Zone. This area was selected due to its abundant geothermal heat sources and relatively thin Earth’s crust, making it an ideal location for SCGT exploration.Ms Collins emphasised that while the project holds significant promise, developing the necessary engineering technology to extract SCGT will be a major challenge. "This is a long-term project, and any decision to move forward will depend on the early-stage success of the technology," she said.The project will be led by GNS Science in collaboration with the Ministry of Business, Innovation & Employment (MBIE), building on years of research and studies funded by MBIE’s Endeavour Research Fund.The first well is expected to be drilled by the end of 2025, with the full deployment of SCGT potentially taking place between 2035 and 2040. If successful, the technology could provide a substantial return on investment, further cementing New Zealand's reputation for innovative solutions to global energy challenges.

Hundreds gathered on Orewa Beach last Saturday for the much-anticipated Orewa Beach Fashion Show, an event that brought together the community for an inspiring showcase of local style.Set against Orewa’s iconic sculpture, the show presented a unique blend of vintage, up-cycled, and contemporary collections from local retailers.MediaWorks' Anna McGovern and Magic FM broadcaster Murray Lindsay hosted the event, lending a professional touch that kept audiences engaged.The event drew 160 ticketed attendees, with additional crowds viewing from nearby seating and cafes like Cheek & Chong and Shoreward.“It was a great day with lots of energy,” said Hellen Wilkins, Orewa Business Association Manager, who noted that many spectators headed straight to stores after the show to purchase looks they had seen on the catwalk.“The event created a positive economic impact, with people filling nearby bars and restaurants afterward,” she added.Models aged 3 to 83 showcased styles for every age group, with plans to expand selections for the 20–30 age range in future events.This show marked the end of its annual run, as organisers now plan to hold it every other year.“The show is a large commitment for our local retailers,” Wilkins explained, emphasising that the shift will keep interest high while easing the workload for Orewa’s small businesses.Tania Ogilvy modelling for Main Street FashionsThe event was funded by the association’s events budget, with sponsorships from RRE and Orewa Optics and support from ticket sales.As Wilkins highlighted, “Destination Orewa Beach’s goal is to drive foot traffic and support retail, not to turn a profit. Our mandate is to create vibrant, cost-neutral events that benefit the community.”

Auckland ferry commuters are angry their ferry service could still be facing the chopping block.Auckland Transport is commissioning an independent study on transport options for the Whangaparāoa Peninsula - including considering whether to keep the ferry, despite backlash from the community.O Mahurangi Penlink, a new 7km highway connecting the Whangaparāoa Peninsula to State Highway One, is set to open in late 2026.Auckland Transport network planner Dave Hilson said it will create a more direct connection to State Highway 1 and the city."What we need to do is review our existing public transport services, the network on the Peninsula, and see if we need to make changes as a result of that, in order to benefit more people from public transport."There are three scenarios out for feedback until 1 December.The first is the same bus and ferry services running more often, and the second is a new transport station served by the northern express NX2 bus, with frequent bus services to Gulf Harbour - but no ferry.The third option is a combination - keeping the Gulf Harbour ferry and the new station with frequent busses, but without the NX2 bus.Whangaparāoa resident Glenn Taylor said the Gulf Harbour ferry was used by everyone east of Stanmore Bay."I mean yes, people do use buses, but it's very easy for us to jump in our car, drive down to the Hammerhead, park your car up free of charge all day long, jump on a ferry. Five minutes in a car, fifty minutes in a ferry. We don't use buses."In 2023, the Regional Land Transport Plan included a proposal to end the ferry.The proposal was withdrawn from the final plan after backlash, and Auckland Transport committed to the independent Whangaparaoa Transport Study, to inform a decision for the future of public transport to the Peninsula - and the ferry - by 2025.Taylor said to be surveyed again was just annoying, after over 1000 people submitted against it ending last year."We've already made these submissions, and it's been mentioned enough times and commented on enough times, that people are saying, we've just done this. We want the ferries, full stop. There's a sense of, are they even listening to us?"Albany councillor John Watson said the 2023 proposal received an overwhelming response."The community made it really clear to [Auckland Transport] then - they valued their service, they wanted to hold onto it, and there's a real feeling now that, here they are back again, trying to circumvent that near-unanimous opposition to closing the ferry service down."Watson said the ferry was part of the fabric of life on the Peninsula."This study is a very expensive resource, an intensive study that's going right along Whangaparāoa now, when they already know their answer - they know people want to hold onto their ferry."Hilson said the ferry was not changing until the contract to run it ends in 2028, but the study's aim was to find cost-effective options for the whole peninsula."All feedback is taken into account. I mean from a personal point of view - I wouldn't be doing this, unless we were going to. It's not a tick-box exercise."He said nothing was set in stone, and the study's three options will change depending on feedback.

Locals on the Hibiscus Coast are invited to share their thoughts on a new development contributions policy that will shape how the costs of growth in Auckland are distributed.The consultation period is open until Friday, 15 November 2024.The proposed policy outlines the fees that Auckland Council will charge developers to help fund essential infrastructure, including roads, pipes, and public amenities necessary for new homes and businesses.Andrew Duncan, the council's manager of financial policy, emphasised the importance of community involvement in this process.“We encourage all Aucklanders to get involved with this consultation – it will influence the infrastructure for our new developments in future, and how well they support growth in the region,” Mr Duncan said.He noted that the infrastructure includes roads, footpaths, stormwater and drainage systems, community facilities, libraries, and parks, all of which contribute to the quality of life in local communities.Auckland's population is projected to increase by approximately 600,000 people over the next 30 years.The development contributions policy aims to ensure that the costs of infrastructure are fairly shared among developers, ratepayers, and the government.Over the next decade, the council plans to invest around $39.3 billion in its capital investment programme, which includes $10.3 billion for projects related to growth.The proposed changes to the policy would raise the average development contribution fee from $21,000 to $30,000 per household unit equivalent.Significant investments are also planned for key areas, including Drury, the inner northwest (Redhills, Westgate, and Whenuapai), and the Auckland Housing Programme areas at Tāmaki, Mt Roskill, and Māngere.From 2034 to 2054, an additional $10.9 billion will be allocated to these priority areas.Mr Duncan explained that these higher fees reflect the necessary infrastructure to support development.He added that the council's economic analysis indicates that increased development contributions do not typically lead to higher house prices, as housing prices are primarily influenced by supply and demand.All Aucklanders are encouraged to participate in the consultation process by visiting the council’s "Have Your Say" webpage to provide feedback on the future needs of their neighbourhoods.

Just in time for Christmas, Hallensteins is opening its first store on the Hibiscus Coast this Saturday at Silverdale Centre.Known for its contemporary menswear, the store offers a range of styles, from streetwear to formal attire, catering to Kiwi men looking to refresh their wardrobes for the holiday season.Doors will open at 9 am, with early visitors treated to a free coffee and a chance to receive a mystery voucher, some valued up to $500.Vouchers and coffee will be offered on a first-come, first-served basis, so arriving early is recommended.A DJ will also be on-site to create a festive vibe, helping to get shoppers in the Christmas spirit.With 46 stores across New Zealand and Australia, including 12 in Auckland, Hallensteins’ arrival in Silverdale gives Hibiscus Coast locals convenient access to the brand’s popular range.As shoppers get ready for the holiday rush, Hallensteins’ new Silverdale store promises to be a welcomed addition to the community, providing a fresh option for men’s fashion on the Coast.

Coasties may be interested to learn that Auckland Council has made substantial progress in its savings initiatives for the current financial year. As of now, the council has achieved nearly 50 per cent of its $66 million savings target for 2024/2025, amounting to $31.9 million.The annual savings programme is part of the council's ongoing efforts to ensure cost-effectiveness and value for money across all its activities. This week, the Revenue, Expenditure and Value Committee received an update on these savings, with Deputy Mayor Desley Simpson highlighting their importance in reducing rates rises for residents.“These savings are directly used to keep rates and debt down. In total, $66 million saved represents 2.5 per cent of rates rises that have been avoided,” Cr Simpson stated. “The savings to date this year are excellent news for our ratepayers and show the council’s focus on delivering increased efficiency and maximising every ratepayer dollar. We want rates to remain affordable, particularly when the cost of living is so high for Aucklanders.”The council's savings in the last quarter have been achieved through various measures, including detailed budget reviews and reductions in staffing, consultancy, and promotional activities. Over recent years, Auckland Council has consistently exceeded its savings targets, with many initiatives continuing to yield benefits annually.The current $66 million savings target builds on top of ongoing savings of $90 million per year that have already been integrated into the council’s budget. Over the past three years, the council has achieved $337 million in savings, which is expected to approach half a billion dollars by the end of the 2024/2025 financial year.“The results so far speak volumes for how closely the council is monitoring its costs and enhancing its revenue,” Cr Simpson added. “While we’re off to a promising start this year, continuing to find savings across the business is a challenge. But we continue to focus on delivering value for money, because it’s vital work to keep rates as affordable for Aucklanders as possible.”Looking ahead, the council aims to save an additional $19 million per year for 2025/2026 and a further $20 million per year for 2026/2027. For every $25 million of planned savings in the council’s budget, a rates rise of around 1 per cent is avoided.

Loneliness and social isolation among older New Zealanders have reached epidemic proportions, a new study has found.The research, commissioned by Age Concern Auckland, reveals that 59% of participants have recently felt lonely or socially isolated, with nearly a third (30%) experiencing these feelings frequently or always.The 'Breaking Barriers' study, which surveyed respondents in Auckland and Bay of Plenty, paints a complex picture of interconnected factors contributing to this growing issue.Financial insecurity, rising living costs, and limited retirement savings are major drivers of loneliness, with many older adults struggling to make ends meet.Health concerns, such as long wait times for elective surgeries and high insurance premiums, exacerbate anxiety and hinder social participation.Access to affordable housing also plays a significant role.Many older Kiwis are either priced out of the housing market or forced to live in substandard conditions.The study found that 70% of those in social housing had experienced loneliness, the highest rate across all accommodation types.The report also notes that the trend of adult children moving overseas is leaving older adults emotionally and geographically isolated.In Auckland, 44% of the elderly population consists of migrants, many of whom face loneliness after their children leave.The use of technology, including social media, has not proven effective in alleviating isolation.The study found that 75% of participants with social media access still reported feelings of loneliness, and almost two-thirds (64%) of those who were proficient with smartphones also experienced isolation.Kevin Lamb, CEO of Age Concern Auckland, highlighted the severe health impacts of loneliness, comparing them to those of chronic conditions like smoking and obesity.He has called for a Minister of Loneliness, a position already established in the UK and Japan, to spearhead national strategies aimed at reducing social isolation and improving mental health.The report also emphasises the need for greater funding for social connection initiatives and mental health services for older adults.It advocates for community-based activities, volunteer programmes, and efforts to combat ageism.Additionally, the study draws attention to the unique challenges faced by Maori in rural areas, where healthcare access and support services are limited.Over a third (34%) of Maori kaumatua live in rural areas, and the report calls for equitable access to resources for older adults, particularly in these communities.

A lengthy queue at Auckland Airport's domestic terminal on Tuesday morning was caused by upgrades to a security machine.The Aviation Security Service has closed one of its five security lanes until 5 December to install a new scanning machine.A large number of arrivals, many for Wednesday's Coldplay concert, caused a large queue to form at around 6am.The queue started to clear by 7am, it said.Avsec said it was reviewing CCTV footage and working with Auckland Airport to improve passenger flow.Meanwhile, Air New Zealand has had to add 22 more flights to Auckland as thousands of Coldplay fans visit the city.The first of three concerts will be held at Eden Park on Wednesday evening and is expected to draw a crowd of 50,000.Air New Zealand said it was shaping up to be one of its busiest weeks of the year for the domestic network, with more than 230,000 customers expected.Friday was set to be the busiest day, with 40,000 passengers in the sky, it said.