Coasties, here’s what the next four days have in store:Friday, 25/7Bit of everything, with a breezy nor’easter keeping things fresh.High: 16Low: 11Saturday, 26/7Mainly cloudy skies, breezy nor’easter sticking around.High: 16Low: 11Sunday, 27/7A few sunny spells, breezy nor’easter still in play.High: 16Low: 11Monday, 27/7Afternoon showers blowing in—windy nor’easter, take a brolly.High: 16Low: 12Want more weather info? Tap into 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.Everything you need, right here in the Hibiscus Coast App – anytime, anywhere!

Nearly six months into the government's new Fast-track Approvals system, over 50 major infrastructure and housing projects are already moving swiftly through the process, promising to unlock billions in economic growth and thousands of jobs across New Zealand.The Fast-track Approvals Act, introduced by the National-NZ First coalition government and operational since 7 February, aims to bypass bureaucratic hurdles traditionally seen under the Resource Management Act.Infrastructure Minister Chris Bishop and Regional Development Minister Shane Jones say the scheme is on track, with eight projects before expert panels expecting decisions by mid-September.Local interest is building, with Milldale's residential development already before an expert panel.Nearby, Auckland Surf Park in Dairy Flat is another significant local development progressing through the Fast-track pipeline, now set to lodge its full application.Minister Bishop highlighted recent referrals including Stage 2 of Auckland Surf Park, combining residential living, retail, and even an AI data centre, as evidence of the scheme's value.For Coasties, faster approvals mean quicker community benefits, from housing and infrastructure improvements to local job creation.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

The mother of an Auckland 20-year-old who has been missing for more than a week is begging the public to keep searching for her boy.Tyler Porter was last seen on Wednesday, July 16 in the Arkles Bay area and both his family and police have serious concerns for his welfare.He was last seen wearing black shorts, a white T-shirt, black DC shoes and a black hat and has been described as having brown hair and distinctive blue eyes.A recent photograph of Tyler Porter, with a haircut. Photo: NZ Police / SUPPLIEDHis mum, Shara-Lee Porter, said her son had last been seen at 4.35pm that day at the top of Ladies Mile Rd crossing over into a walk way."Please everyone don't stop searching, sharing our social media post and showing his photo," she said.Porter was tall, standing at six-foot-four, gentle, and much-loved by the local community, his mum said.Tyler Porter has been described by family as a tall and gentle young man. Photo: SHARA-LEE PORTER / SUPPLIED"We just want to give him a big tight hug. Myself, his dad, little brother, grandparents, everyone just wants our baby home."Police asked anyone who had seen Porter or who had heard from him to call 111 and use the reference number 250719/0868.

Great news for bacon lovers on the Hibiscus Coast. Sam’s Butchery in Silverdale has just been crowned Supreme Bacon winner at this year’s prestigious 100% New Zealand Bacon & Ham Awards. Their Naturally Maple Streaky Bacon clinched the top spot, impressing judges with its irresistible aroma and standout flavour.Puvi Nadason accepted the award on behalf of his father, Sam, acknowledging the dedication behind their win. “Dad puts in so much hard work, and with the standard getting higher every year, this win really means a lot,” he said.Judges, including culinary expert Kathy Paterson, praised the bacon's originality. "It just made you want to start eating it straight away—that's always a good sign," she remarked.The nationwide competition, judged by a panel of butchers and food experts, saw products evaluated across multiple categories, with Sam’s Butchery ultimately rising to the top.Whether it’s a weekend brunch or a special occasion, Coasties can proudly say they’ve got some of New Zealand’s best bacon right here at home. You might want to swing by Sam’s for a taste of award-winning deliciousness this weekend.

The value of fully electric vehicle imports fell nearly 60 percent in June over the year earlier.Stats NZ said the total value of passenger motor vehicle imports for the 12 months to June was down 23 percent or $1.4 billion to $4.9b."Electric vehicle imports saw the largest decline, down by $518 million," Stats spokesperson Viki Ward said.The value of electric vehicle imports fell 57 percent, totalling $395m, with plug-in hybrid electric vehicles down 38 percent to $234m, while hybrid electric vehicle imports rose 3.8 percent to $1.6b.

From 24 July, new rules around digital identity will come into force, with the goal of making online services safer, more secure, and easier to use for all New Zealanders.The updated Digital Identity Services Trust Framework Rules were announced by the Department of Internal Affairs and are designed to give people more control over their personal information.Key changes include support for a wider range of digital credentials, like licences and qualifications, and a clear requirement that digital wallets must verify credentials in real time (not just display them on a screen). Importantly, the new rules stop ID issuers from tracking where and when someone uses their digital ID, protecting users' privacy."For everyday users, the new rules mean greater choice and control," says Secretary for Internal Affairs, Paul James.Digital identity services will remain optional, and there’s no centralised database. Instead, people can choose accredited digital wallets that keep their credentials encrypted on their own devices.For Coasties, that means safer ways to prove who you are online, whether you’re renting a car, opening a bank account, or signing up for a public service. Businesses on the Coast can also benefit from receiving verified information faster, with less risk of fraud or errors.The Trust Framework Authority is in charge of enforcing the rules and accrediting providers. Keep an eye out for the accreditation mark before using any digital ID service.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

If you've ever wandered through Matakana on a sunny weekend, chances are you’ve popped by Morris & James. For nearly five decades, their bold, colourful ceramics have brightened patios and dining tables across the country. But soon, the kilns will cool for good.Morris & James has announced it will be closing its doors after 47 years. Founded in 1977 by Anthony Morris and Sue James, the business became a landmark in our wider region, known not just for its handmade pots and platters, but for celebrating true New Zealand artistry.This isn’t a sudden decision. After considering options including selling, the team has chosen to wind things down gradually over the next few months. They'll finish using the last of their clay stock and then begin dismantling the factory that has been home to so many creative hands over the years.While this might feel like the end of an era, locals still have time to visit, browse the final collection, and redeem any gift vouchers. You can also shop online while stock lasts, with new pieces being released over the coming weeks.It’s a chance to own a little piece of handcrafted history before the last pot is glazed.For Coasties who’ve taken day trips to Matakana or proudly gifted a Morris & James platter at a wedding, it’s a farewell worth marking. And if you've never been, now's the perfect excuse for a roadie north.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

Auckland’s new Local Alcohol Policy (LAP) is showing early signs of success, with Coasties and other locals reporting cleaner parks, fewer intoxicated people, and quieter streets.Six months after the rules came into effect, a survey by Alcohol Healthwatch found that communities feel safer and more family-friendly. Parks are tidier, anti-social behaviour is down, and some hospital staff have even noticed fewer alcohol-related injuries during busy periods like New Year’s.Introduced by Auckland Council, the LAP reduced off-licence hours to 9pm and brought forward closing time for bars and clubs (outside the CBD) to 3am. While a full evaluation won’t happen until 2026, Council’s General Manager of Policy Louise Mason says it’s “incredibly encouraging” to see such positive feedback so early.One survey respondent said, “My kids love playing at the parks and beaches. Since the hours have been reduced there have been no broken bottles – it’s nice and clean.”Another noted, “I worked the New Year period in the ED last year and saw fewer people presenting with alcohol intoxication or alcohol-related injuries than previous years.”Council’s Rob Abbott confirmed no breaches of the new policy by off-licence holders so far, thanking businesses for their cooperation.For Coasties, the changes offer real benefits: quieter evenings, safer public spaces, and a shift towards more responsible alcohol availability. It’s a small policy change with a big local impact.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

Sky New Zealand will acquire 100% of Discovery NZ—owner of free-to-air channels Three, ThreeNow, eden, Rush, and HGTV—in a deal announced today by Sky and Warner Bros. Discovery.The price? Just $1, on a cash-free, debt-free basis.The deal includes a multi-year agreement to keep premium WBD content flowing and is expected to settle on 1 August 2025.Warner Bros. Discovery will retain HBO Max, its Pay TV channels, and its local production arm.For Coasties, that means Three and ThreeNow aren’t going anywhere—and could even get better.Sky CEO Sophie Moloney called the move a “win for growth,” saying the acquisition will fast-track Sky’s digital strategy and advertising reach.She also confirmed no immediate changes to content, and that the Discovery NZ team will be welcomed into Sky.Warner Bros. Discovery described the transaction as a logical next step, noting that while the channel group was no longer viable on its own, it still holds real value when combined with Sky’s offering.The Commerce Commission has reviewed the commercial aspects and confirmed it won’t investigate further.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

Fresh Coast Jobs for Fresh Starts! Looking for a new role, or know someone who is? Check out this week’s top local job picks and help a mate land their next move.FM Realty LimitedPosition: Sales and Marketing Support ExecutiveLocation: SilverdaleFull-time role supporting sales, marketing, and digital campaigns in a dynamic property businessGreat opportunity for someone with social media and CRM experience who enjoys working with peopleView the full listing & applySilverdale United RugbyPosition: Club ManagerLocation: SilverdaleLead operations and community engagement at NZ’s largest rugby clubFull-time role with a focus on people, sport, and growthView the full listing & applyCareer Tip of the WeekSet up Google alerts for companies and industries you’re targeting. It keeps you informed, helps you tailor applications, and gives you timely talking points for interviews.Know someone looking for work?Share these roles and help them take the next step!Need to hire fast? Reach thousands of Coasties, Post your job today.

Blues CEO Andrew Hore will leave the club this September, wrapping up a six-year tenure that’s seen the franchise rise on and off the field. Hore is stepping away from the sporting world to begin a new chapter in the commercial business sector.Since joining the Blues in 2019, Hore has helped steer the club to multiple Super Rugby titles across both the men’s and women’s teams. His leadership has also been credited with improving recruitment, player development, and deepening the organisation’s ties with the community and partner unions.“The Blues is a club I deeply love,” Hore said, reflecting on his decision. “It’s not easy to leave a place that has meant so much to me.”Before the Blues, Hore held senior roles with top rugby organisations including New Zealand Rugby, Welsh Rugby Union, and the NSW Waratahs.Blues chairman Don Mackinnon praised Hore’s impact, saying he had brought “clear vision, deep integrity, and the ability to galvanise people.”A search is now underway for a new CEO.While the Blues are based in Auckland, Hore’s departure is notable for many local fans on the Hibiscus Coast. His leadership has helped create a club culture that resonates beyond Eden Park, one that Coasties proudly support through thick and thin.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

The Associate Health Minister says Pharmac must modernise, "or it will fall behind."David Seymour has told the agency to "innovate and optimise" to increase access to medicines and continue the "positive culture shift" that's been underway, such as exploring ways to "utilise AI".Seymour released his latest letter of expectations today, with the hope of building on his letter from last year where he told the agency it was inappropriate to keep considering the Treaty of Waitangi's place in the health sector.Since that letter of expectation, Seymour said the drug-buying agency has improved overall consultation and changed funding criteria based on public feedback.The agency had also appointed a new chief executive to "cement positive change, and continue to move towards a more transparent, inclusive, and people-focused organisation.""This is a good start. My letter of expectations for this year makes it very clear that there is still more work to be done. I expect this positive culture shift to continue," Seymour said.Now, Seymour wanted Pharmac to modernise and "adopt faster, smarter processes and explore the use of AI to lift performance."His expectations included:Explore how it can optimise medicines assessment and procurement processes to make them more efficient.Explore ways to utilise AI to make their processes more efficient.Consider the fiscal impacts to the government of funding medicines and medical devices, including costs of societal impacts of funding or not funding a medicine or medical device.Be more proactive in engaging with stakeholders.Look for new and additional funding opportunities for medicines and medical devices.Publish measurable performance metrics and timely decisions to increase transparency.Continue to involve patients early in the process and engage with them meaningfully.Seymour told the agency he wanted it to report back to him by December this year on work done to consider the broader fiscal impacts to government and regarding societal and non-health outcomes of funding medicines and medical devices.He also expected Pharmac to "renew its organisational culture and sharpen its strategic focus, ensuring it plays a more visible and constructive role across the wider health system."As part of the "continuous improvement of organisational culture", Seymour said Pharmac needed to carry on giving effect to the Cabinet Circular specifying "Needs-based Service Provision" to meet the government's expectations for how the "targeting, commissioning and design of public services should be based on the needs of all New Zealanders."Seymour said he's committed to ensuring the regulatory system for pharmaceuticals was not "unreasonably holding back access".

If you were up early yesterday, you’ll know ...yep, it was cold. One local shopkeeper told me it was just 4°C on their drive in. Those chilly starts look set to stick around for a while.MetService says a big high is settling over the country, bringing a week of calm, settled weather.That means Coasties can expect crisp mornings and sunny afternoons, perfect for a beach walk or catching up over coffee (once the frost lifts, of course).Meteorologist Oscar Shiviti says the clear skies are great for getting outside, but they do come with a trade-off: chilly, frosty mornings.A front may brush the far south by Friday, but up here, we’re in for a calm stretch.So rug up in the morning, hang the washing out by lunchtime, and take a brolly just in case. We all know how quickly things can turn.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

Annual inflation has ticked up slightly to 2.7 percent but remains within the Reserve Bank’s target range, according to data released today by Stats NZ. That makes it the fourth straight quarter inflation has stayed between 1 and 3 percent.Finance Minister Nicola Willis welcomed the result, calling it a sign the Government is managing cost-of-living pressures more effectively than before.But it’s not all good news. The single biggest contributor to inflation over the past year? Council rates and payments, which jumped 12.2 percent.While the Government credited itself for keeping national costs in check, Willis also raised concerns about local body spending, saying councils need to “focus on the basics” and do more to keep rates under control.That hits close to home for Coasties, who’ve seen significant rate increases from Auckland Council in recent years. For many households, it’s rates—more than groceries or power—that are quietly eating into weekly budgets.Stats NZ also noted that non-tradeables inflation, which reflects domestic supply and demand, continues to fall—a sign that local economic pressures might be easing.Still, Willis warned that global uncertainties remain and the recovery isn’t guaranteed.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

Road resurfacing work will close parts of State Highway 1 between Silverdale and Oteha Valley Road from 3 to 20 August, with all closures scheduled at night from 9pm to 5am, Sundays to Thursdays.NZ Transport Agency (NZTA) is carrying out rehabilitation and resurfacing on multiple sections of the motorway over three weeks, weather permitting.The work includes digging up and replacing sections of road up to 120mm deep before laying new asphalt to create a smoother, safer surface.For Coasties travelling south, SH1 will be fully closed in that direction from 3 to 11 August, with a detour via the Twin Coast Discovery Highway, East Coast Road, and Oteha Valley Road.If the weather doesn’t cooperate, back-up dates are set for 31 August to 4 September.The northbound lanes will be closed from 12 to 20 August using the same detour route in reverse.During this time, access to bpConnect Dairy Flats will not be available.Wet weather contingency dates for the northbound closure are 24 to 28 August.This work matters locally, especially for regular commuters, late-night drivers, and anyone planning early morning travel.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

Global furniture giant IKEA is due to open its first New Zealand store in Auckland some time this year, but has not yet told Auckland Council when.IKEA said it was still on track to open at Sylvia Park and had so far employed 85 of the 500 staff it needed.Within at least two months of opening, IKEA has to provide the council with an opening date and management plan, but a council spokesperson confirmed it was still waiting to receive this information.The consent conditions for the big box retailer required it to submit an plan that detailed how it would manage the anticipated crowds expected to drive there."No less than two months prior to the scheduled opening date of the Ikea store, the consent holder must prepare and submit a store opening management plan to Auckland Council for written certification," the consent decision stated."The purpose of the plan is to set out the measures to be adopted to manage effects on the transportation network during the first three months following the opening of the store."IKEA has yet to announce its opening day, but indicated it would be in time for Christmas.The council indicated that, before an official store opening, it wanted Ikea to open online to manage anticipated demand and have a soft opening to test traffic management.It advised IKEA to avoid opening on public holidays, Fridays, weekends, Black Friday or Boxing Day.The council asked Ikea to provide details about "incentives to travel to the site by transport modes other than private vehicle, such as bus, train and active modes", as well as "comprehensive information provided to the public on travel routes to and from the store".Ikea must provide at least 54 bicycle parks and 543 carparks, and submit a travel plan to the council that shows how it would encourage employees and customers to use public transport, walk or cycle to the store.Construction began on the 34,000 square metre store in 2023 and the iconic blue building is taking shape at Sylvia Park.The ground level will be a carpark, with the store spread across two floors, including its Swedish restaurant that will sell meatballs and hotdogs. The retailer is still recruiting for its anticipated.IKEA people and culture manager Lauren Clegg said 15,000 people had applied for advertised roles by the end of May.She said 85 people had been employed so far and more roles would be advertised this month, attracting thousands of applicants."There does seem to be a lot of people that are between jobs at the moment or struggling to get into work," she said. "I think we're in a really tough time in New Zealand, with the market at the moment, and that's probably contributing to some of our numbers."Clegg said the IKEA opening had caused excitement."We're definitely on track to open late 2025, but the exact opening date is very under wraps for now."IKEA would continue to release and advertise for roles until November.

A major new investment in advanced technology could help put New Zealand science on the global stage, and Coasties with a tech or science bent might want to pay attention.The Government has launched the New Zealand Institute for Advanced Technology (NZIAT), committing $231 million over four years to grow the country’s high-tech sector and develop world-leading innovations in fields like AI, quantum computing, and synthetic biology.Announced by Science, Innovation and Technology Minister Dr Shane Reti, the new Auckland-based institute aims to bridge the gap between cutting-edge research and real-world commercial success.“It will be a cornerstone of our plan to grow a high-tech, high-value economy,” says Dr Reti.The first confirmed investment is already underway at Wellington’s Robinson Research Institute, focusing on future magnetic and materials technologies.More projects will be greenlit following advice from the newly formed Prime Minister’s Science, Innovation and Technology Advisory Council.Could Auckland’s Tech Future Start Here?For Coast-based researchers, start-ups, and students, the ripple effects could be significant.With plans for a national research network linking universities and industry, local experts may find new opportunities to collaborate or contribute.And for businesses keen on innovation or export growth, the Institute could help fast-track the kinds of tools, partnerships, and talent needed to compete on the world stage.As Dr Reti puts it, “This is about delivering long-term value for New Zealanders, transforming research into growth, jobs, and global impact.”Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

Food prices are still on the rise, with Stats NZ confirming a 4.6 percent increase in the 12 months to June 2025. That’s slightly higher than the 4.4 percent rise reported for May.The biggest culprits? Dairy and meat. Grocery items like milk, butter, and cheese jumped 4.7 percent overall, while the meat, poultry, and fish group spiked by 6.4 percent.Butter stood out with a whopping 46.5 percent annual rise, now averaging $8.60 for a 500g block. Milk climbed to $4.57 per 2L (up 14.3 percent), and cheese hit $13.04 per 1kg.Meat lovers felt the pinch too. Beef steak rose 22.3 percent and mince climbed 15.6 percent year-on-year.Month-on-month, food prices were up 1.2 percent in June, driven largely by fresh produce and grocery staples like boxed chocolates and eggs.Chris Quin from Foodstuffs NZ says poor winter growing conditions are partly to blame. “High power costs are hurting greenhouse growers too,” he said, noting that prices for tomatoes, capsicum, and broccoli have all gone up.For Coasties, this means local supermarkets are reflecting both global price pressures and tough weather conditions at home. It’s especially tough for families trying to stretch the grocery budget week to week.Butter prices may have softened slightly at international auctions, but as Quin points out, they’re still 55 percent higher than two years ago. He says co-ops are even selling it at a loss to ease the burden.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

Coasties with kids at Orewa College might’ve heard some exciting news. Twelve new classrooms are on the way, thanks to a major government push to support Auckland’s growing schools.Part of a $120 million investment package announced through Budget 25, the upgrade is designed to ease the pressure on fast-growing school rolls. Across Auckland, 137 new classrooms will be built, making room for just over 3,000 additional students. Orewa is one of 24 schools benefiting, with others getting between one and ten new classrooms.Education Minister Erica Stanford says the builds will use repeatable designs and prefabricated buildings to speed things up and stretch the budget further. All classroom projects are expected to kick off construction within the next 12 months.While the spotlight is mostly on Auckland, the Hibiscus Coast will feel the benefits too. More space at Orewa College means less crowding and more comfort for students, something parents and teachers will no doubt welcome.The wider initiative also includes two new schools opening in 2026 and 2027, and the confirmation of new school sites in Pōkeno and Chapel Downs.With more families moving into the Hibiscus Coast every year, future-proofing our local schools is a smart move. It’s also a boost for the construction sector, with jobs and contracts expected to roll out alongside the builds.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.