The New Zealand government has launched a Public Service Artificial Intelligence (AI) Framework, which will impact public services nationwide, including those on the Hibiscus Coast.Government Chief Digital Officer Paul James announced the framework, stating it will support leaders, decision-makers, practitioners, and influencers in agencies to adopt AI safely and securely for better public service delivery outcomes.According to Mr. James, "Harnessing AI effectively could significantly improve customer experience and boost efficiency and productivity." The government aims to enable AI innovation in public services to create value for New Zealanders while maintaining trust and confidence in the Public Service.The framework applies to all forms of AI used in New Zealand public services. A Public Service AI work programme, led by the Government Chief Digital Officer, is implementing the framework's vision to adopt AI responsibly and modernise public services.The work programme includes initiatives such as building AI knowledge and skills in the Public Service, surveying key public service agencies on their use of AI, and publishing insights and tools.Have a News story to share?Contact [email protected]

Welcome to The Week That Was—your go-to recap of the most important news, stories, and updates for the Hibiscus Coast community.Sums needed for retirement ease slightlyRead more Cozy 360 Car Seat Recall IssuedRead moreRubbish Truck Fires Prompt Safety WarningsRead moreRelentless Focus on Literacy and NumeracyRead moreLocal wins boat in Coastguard LotteryRead moreThe Week That Was. Stay ahead of the curve with daily local news updates, tailored for users on-the-go.Download the Hibiscus Coast App today and stay informed anywhere, anytime!Have a News story to share?Contact [email protected]

Coasties can now enjoy a smoother ride on state highways, thanks to the Government's efforts to tackle potholes. Since July last year, around 98 per cent of potholes on state highways have been repaired within 24 hours of identification.Transport Minister Chris Bishop says the Government's commitment to getting New Zealand's roads back on track is delivering strong results."Increasing productivity to help rebuild our economy is a key priority for our Government, and boosting pothole repairs and prevention will deliver a safe and efficient state highway network that will support this growth."To address the issue, the Government established a $3.9 billion Pothole Prevention Activity Class over three years. This funding is ring-fenced for resealing, rehabilitation, and drainage maintenance works. The NZ Transport Agency (NZTA) is delivering a significant programme of works, including a record increase in road rehabilitation.The results show that NZTA has delivered on the Government's 24-hour pothole repair targets each month since they were introduced. The data reveals:July 2024: 7,114 potholes repaired, with 95% repaired within 24 hoursAugust 2024: 6,303 potholes repaired, with 98% repaired within 24 hoursSeptember 2024: 5,030 potholes repaired, with 98% repaired within 24 hoursOctober 2024: 4,809 potholes repaired, with 98% repaired within 24 hoursNovember 2024: 3,200 potholes repaired, with 99% repaired within 24 hoursDecember 2024: 1,697 potholes repaired, with 98% repaired within 24 hoursIf you spot a pothole on the state highway network, report it immediately by calling 0800 4 HIGHWAYS.Have a News story to share?Contact [email protected]

Reminder: Auckland Transport (AT) is rolling out significant changes to its fare structure and zone system starting 2 February, marking the most extensive update since 2016.The changes aim to simplify travel for passengers across buses, trains, and ferries while adjusting fares to reflect rising operational costs.The new system reduces the number of fare zones from 14 to nine, consolidating several areas.For example, the East Coast/South Rodney zone now combines the Helensville, Huapai, Hibiscus Coast, and Upper North Shore zones.These adjustments result in cost savings for some passengers, particularly those travelling longer distances.From 2 February, an adult travelling from the Hibiscus Coast to Albany will pay $2.80 per journey, down from $4.65.Similarly, passengers commuting from the Hibiscus Coast to Auckland city will see their fare drop from $7.40 to $6.25 per trip.While some fares are decreasing, Auckland Transport’s annual fare review will bring modest increases to other fares.Bus and train journeys will rise by 15 to 25 cents, and ferry fares will increase by 20 cents to $1.40, depending on the distance travelled.AT’s Director of Public Transport and Active Modes, Stacey van der Putten, explained the rationale behind the adjustments.“We know any increases add to people's cost of living and so these are carefully considered,” Ms Van der Putten said.“However, the cost of running, maintaining, and investing in Auckland’s public transport network is also increasing, and we need to keep up with this.”She noted that the $50 seven-day fare cap for HOP card users remains unchanged, benefiting approximately 25,000 weekly passengers.This cap provides some relief for frequent bus, train, and ferry users.Additionally, off-peak discounts will be discontinued, as they have not achieved the intended impact of managing peak-time capacity.Auckland Transport Director of Public Transport and Active Modes, Stacey van der PuttenFerry fares will also be adjusted independently from buses and trains to account for their operational costs.AT says these structural changes aim to make fares simpler and fairer while encouraging public transport use.Ms Van der Putten highlighted the long-term goal of aligning Auckland’s public transport systems with global best practices.“These structural changes themselves, when applied as a whole, are revenue neutral,” she said.“Our key driver for these changes is to bring the most value to people who use our services.”Locals are encouraged to review the new fare zones and pricing changes before they take effect on 2 February.Have a News story to share?Contact [email protected]

There is growing speculation over whether Wayne Brown's own deputy and political ally is set to challenge him for Auckland's top job.Desley Simpson, who previously stood under the right-leaning Communities and Residents (C&R) party in local body elections, has served as deputy to Mayor Wayne Brown since his election in the 2022 elections.The high profile councillor is married to businessman and former National Party president Peter Goodfellow.Simpson took on a more visible role as the face of Auckland Council in the wake of the Auckland Anniversary Floods when Brown was criticised for not handling the emergency well and for his combative attitude toward media at the time.There has been speculation in political circles over Simpson's future in recent months.However, Simpson told RNZ on Thursday afternoon she had "not yet made a decision about what I intend to to this year".Sources familiar with the situation, who did not want to be named, told RNZ in December that Simpson was no longer a member of C&R and that it was expected she would launch a mayoral bid.In December a domain name, "DesleyforMayor.co.nz'' was registered by Andrew Simpson, her son by her first marriage to Coromandel MP and Senior National Party Whip, Scott Simpson.When asked whether Simpson was still an active member and would be a C&R candidate this election, President David Hay said he did not want to comment until he had spoken to Simpson.He said there had been no discussions between C&R and Simpson about her joining the mayoral race but "the rumour was she was running''.Hay said he had tried to contact Simpson in the past few days but she was not answering.RNZ was told on Wednesday Simpson was overseas and would be back at work next week.In a bizarre turn of events, the domain name 'desleyformayor.nz' was registered by Jordan Williams last week.Jordan Williams is a right-wing lobbyist and political campaigner, known for his involvement in the Taxpayers' Union.In a statement Williams said when he discovered the domain name was available he registered it.Speaking to RNZ Williams said he was not involved in Simpson's campaign and had done it as a joke.In an email to Ratepayers' Union members, he said they discovered Simpson's son only registered "DesleyForMayor.co.nz" and forgot "DesleyForMayor.nz".He said they would give the domain to Simpson if she wanted it.Wayne Brown has not officially declared he is standing for mayor again, saying he would make an announcement early this year, but is widely expected to stand.He did not want to comment "at this time", a spokesperson for his office said.Simpson has been contacted for comment.

Hibiscus Coast residents now have a free, easy-to-use tool to stay informed and engaged with local happenings. The Community Notice Board, , a dedicated section within the Hibiscus Coast App, allows individuals and community groups to post notices at no cost.With over 50,000 monthly views, the platform ensures that local notices reach a wide audience, making it an effective tool for sharing important updates. Coasties can use the board to post announcements, lost-and-found alerts, and personal items for sale. Community organisations and non-profits can also raise awareness about local initiatives and events.“The notice board is a great tool for keeping locals connected,” said Steve Pulley, owner of the Hibiscus Coast App. “People can post notices easily and see what’s happening in their neighbourhood without needing to sift through social media.”Unlike traditional paper-based notice boards—or social media platforms where posts can quickly get lost in busy feeds—the Notices section keeps information visible, accessible, and relevant. Posts remain live for a set period, ensuring they reach the right audience at the right time.Locals have already begun using the platform to share updates.The initiative aims to foster stronger local connections by making essential information easily available.For those looking to promote events, the app also features a separate Events page, ensuring a clear distinction between general notices and upcoming activities.While the Community Notice Board is open to the public, business listings are not permitted. Local businesses can explore advertising options or business directory listings within the app to reach its growing audience.Coasties are encouraged to make use of the Community Notice Board to keep the Hibiscus Coast informed and connected. Notices can be posted online at any time, completely free of charge.Have a News story to share?Contact [email protected]

Looking for plans?Explore events happening soon on the Hibiscus Coast and start planning your next activity!Millwater parkrunSat, Feb 1st. 8:00 AM - 9:00 AMMillwaterMore detailsGood Manners Dog Obedience CourseMon, Feb 3rd. 6:00 PM - 7:00 PMSilverdaleMore detailsWaitangi Day 2025Thu, Feb 6. 10:00 AM - 2:00 PMSilverdaleMore detailsWant to see more events?Explore everything happening in our community on the Hibiscus Coast App.Have an event to share?Promote it for Free - click here!

According to the latest ANZ Business Outlook survey, business confidence across New Zealand remains strong despite a slight dip.The survey, released yesterday, reports an eight-point drop in business confidence to +54 in January, while expected own activity eased by four points to +46. ANZ describes the figures as "easing, but still extremely high."Economic Growth Minister Nicola Willis acknowledged the findings, stating that the economy is on a positive trajectory."The latest ANZ Business Outlook survey shows business confidence and expected own activity remain very high," Willis said.She attributed the resilience to improving economic conditions, including inflation control and declining interest rates."New Zealanders have faced challenges with the high cost of living and elevated interest rates. This survey, along with NZIER’s findings this month, suggests conditions are set to improve," she said.Willis emphasised the government's commitment to accelerating economic growth and ensuring businesses continue to thrive."Economic growth means more and better-paying jobs for Kiwis, creating community wealth and generating revenue for world-class infrastructure, healthcare, and education services," she said.The ANZ survey serves as a key indicator of business sentiment nationwide. While confidence levels fluctuate monthly, the latest data suggests businesses remain optimistic about their future performance.Have a News story to share?Contact [email protected]

Lifelong boatie, Ryan Archer from Whangaparāoa is now the proud owner of a brand-new, custom- built Rayglass boat after winning this year’s Coastguard Captain’s Club Lottery.  Growing up in a family with a strong connection to the marine industry, Ryan's love for boating started early.“At 16, my parents insisted I get a membership as an added layer of safety when I went out fishing with friends on my 16-foot boat. It became my peace of mind on the water,” says Ryan.  Over the years, the membership proved its worth.Ryan recalls one memorable incident on Lake Taupō while testing a powerboat, and the motor failed.“One call to Coastguard, and the crew were there to help. I don’t know what I’d have done otherwise.” For his 30th birthday, Ryan's family gifted him a lifetime Coastguard membership, and ever since, he's contributed annually through Coastguard’s lotteries.  That turned into something extraordinary when he received the winning call in December.“I’d completely forgotten I’d even purchased the tickets. It was such an incredible surprise, and to be honest, my wife thought it was a scam at first,” he laughs. Winning Coastguard’s Captain’s Club Lottery couldn’t have come at a better time.With a growing family and an ageing boat that no longer met their needs, Ryan’s new vessel, complete with custom comforts and an outboard motor of his choice, is perfect for family adventures. But for Ryan, the win is much more than just the boat. As a father of two, he knows firsthand how important it is to have that peace of mind on the water.“Buying a lottery ticket isn’t just about the prize,” says Ryan.“It’s about supporting a cause that truly makes a difference in the lives of Kiwis. Coastguard keeps families safe, and I’m proud to support and help fund that work.”Have a News story to share?Contact [email protected]

As the 2025 school year begins, students across the Hibiscus Coast and the rest of New Zealand will see a renewed emphasis on literacy and numeracy, following the government’s push for structured and explicit teaching methods.Education Minister Erica Stanford announced that all state schools will now follow a knowledge-rich curriculum, designed to ensure students receive consistent and effective instruction in reading, writing, and mathematics.“A world-leading education system is a key driver to economic growth,” Stanford said. “We want all children to be proficient and confident in reading, writing, and maths so they grow up and live the lives they want.”The new approach focuses on structured teaching that does not leave learning to chance, alongside improved assessment tools to identify students in need of additional support earlier. According to Stanford, this change aims to create a strong foundation for all students, regardless of their career aspirations.To support the transition, the government has allocated $30 million for professional learning, development, and classroom resources, including maths workbooks and online learning tools. These investments will provide 433,000 students with essential materials to track their progress and support their learning.Teachers will also receive guidance on what to teach, when, and how, ensuring a standardised approach across schools.As the structured literacy and numeracy curriculum is embedded this year, the Ministry of Education will continue updating other subject areas up to Year 13, alongside ongoing reforms to NCEA and school infrastructure improvements.Stanford extended her best wishes to teachers, students, and parents as the new school year begins, stating that the government remains committed to ensuring every child receives a strong education.Have a News story to share?Contact [email protected]

Coasties, get ready for an exciting A-League matchup this Saturday. Auckland FC, currently leading the table, will face off against Macarthur FC, who are sitting in third place, at Go Media Stadium.The match, scheduled for 5:00 pm kickoff, promises to be an intense encounter. Auckland FC has a two-point lead over second-placed Adelaide and is six points clear of Macarthur FC. Following a minor form dip, Auckland FC has regained momentum, collecting seven out of nine possible points in their last three games.Macarthur FC is also on a roll, having defeated Melbourne City to secure third place at the end of Round 16. With both teams in strong form, Saturday's match is shaping up to be a thrilling contest.Gates open at 3:30 pm NZT, with the warm-up commencing at 4:15 pm NZT. The match will be broadcast live on Sky Sport and SkyGo.Have a News story to share?Contact [email protected]

Locals are being urged to rethink how universities approach entrepreneurship education to better prepare students for the modern economy.A recent report by the Science System Advisory Group has highlighted significant gaps in entrepreneurship education within New Zealand's universities. The report emphasises that universities are failing to equip students with the necessary skills to succeed in the entrepreneurial realities of the modern economy.Key findings from the report indicate that PhD programmes remain overly focused on academic pursuits, despite most graduates pursuing careers in industry, startups, or government. Furthermore, entrepreneurship is poorly integrated into STEM degrees, leaving students lacking in innovation and research commercialisation skills.According to Rod McNaughton, Professor of Entrepreneurship at the University of Auckland, "Entrepreneurship education must start earlier. Many innovation-driven countries introduce entrepreneurial thinking in secondary, and even primary school, exposing students to essential skills like problem-solving, innovation, and business-building."Professor Rod McNaughton.McNaughton stresses that universities cannot drive this change alone. "Government support is crucial. The Government must support industrial PhD programmes, incentivise industry partnerships, and fund co-operative and entrepreneurship education across disciplines."The University of Waterloo in Canada offers a compelling model for fostering entrepreneurial spirit. By integrating entrepreneurship into STEM programs, combining researcher-owned IP models with co-operative education programs, and cultivating a thriving innovation ecosystem, Waterloo has achieved significant economic impact.Rod McNaughton notes that New Zealand students do not see entrepreneurship as a viable career path at the same rate as their global peers. "This is not due to a lack of talent or ambition but rather structural barriers in the education system."Have a News story to share?Contact [email protected]

Your weekend weather at a glance.Coasties, here’s what the next four days have in store:Friday, 31/1Morning clouds followed by afternoon sun. Breezy Easterly winds.High: 25Low: 16Saturday, 1/2Afternoon showers. Breezy East to Nor'East winds.High: 24Low: 17Sunday, 2/2Mostly sunny. Breezy South to Sou'West winds.High: 26Low: 18Monday, 3/2Partly cloudy. Breezy East to Nor'East winds.High: 25Low: 17Looking for more?Check out our Weather & Travel section in the Hibiscus Coast App for:🌊 Tide information🌬️ Wind conditions🌊 Wave updates🌞 UV levels🏖️ Safe swimming areasand much more.Everything you need is inside the Hibiscus Coast App – anytime, anywhere!

The new year has brought a fiery challenge for Auckland’s waste collection services, with five rubbish and recycling truck fires reported in the first two weeks of January.The incidents are largely attributed to an increasing number of battery-powered devices and batteries being placed in household bins. Lithium-ion batteries, commonly found in electronics, can ignite if damaged or crushed during the waste collection process.In December alone, nearly 600 laptops and over 300 12-volt batteries were discovered at Auckland’s regional recycling facility. These items accounted for almost a third of the total number of laptops and 12V batteries recorded at the site since June 2024. The facility, which processes all kerbside recycling for the region, experiences one or two small fires weekly, often linked to lithium-ion batteries.Justine Haves, General Manager of Waste Solutions, emphasised the importance of proper disposal. “Electronic devices and batteries can be recycled in most cases, but they contain hazardous substances and require specialist handling,” she said.“We encourage people to use takeback and drop-off schemes run by retailers and local community recycling centres.”Lithium-ion batteries pose a significant fire risk due to their flammable electrolyte and stored energy, which can lead to thermal runaway—a rapid and uncontrolled release of heat energy. This process emits toxic gases and can reignite even after being extinguished.To address the issue, Auckland Council’s Waste Solutions team is developing a new testing programme to provide early warnings to drivers and improve fire suppression within trucks. This initiative aims to reduce environmental contamination and enhance safety for Fire and Emergency responders.Currently, drivers who detect smoke or fire must notify their supervisor, contact Fire and Emergency, and find a safe location to empty their load.Batteries are not the only hazardous items found in bins. In January, recycling truck drivers discovered a half-full 40kg LPG bottle and a partially filled petrol jerry can. Over the past six months, more than 300 LPG bottles and gas canisters have been recorded at the recycling facility.How to Dispose of Hazardous Materials Safely:Mitre 10 and Bunnings offer battery drop-off schemes. Check their websites for details.Retailers like Noel Leeming provide take-back schemes for used battery-powered devices, including items they did not sell.Empty gas bottles and canisters can be taken to community recycling centres or MataGas outlets. Some camping stores sell tools to fully empty canisters before disposal.Visit aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/whereitgoes for specific recycling options.Have a News story to share?Contact [email protected]

A pressing issue affecting older New Zealanders will be addressed at a symposium at the University of Auckland on 5 February. The "Ageing, Mobility and Staying Upright" event brings together international experts to share cutting-edge research on preventing falls among older adults.Falls are a significant concern in Aotearoa, with around 30% of people aged over 65 experiencing a fall each year. In aged residential care, this number increases to 60%. Professor Ngaire Kerse, Joyce Cook Chair in Ageing Well, highlights the urgency of addressing this issue, particularly given the growing proportion of older Kiwis.The symposium features experts from Europe, Australia, and Aotearoa, who will present their research on various aspects of fall prevention. Topics include the latest Cochrane research on interventions in aged care facilities, wearable devices to measure mobility, and exercise programs designed to reduce falls.Attendees will also hear from experts on disorders of the inner ear that cause dizziness and loss of balance, as well as new evidence challenging assumptions about walking restrictions to minimise fall risks.The event aims to facilitate knowledge-sharing and collaboration among researchers, healthcare professionals, and aged care providers. By bringing together international experts, organisers hope to stimulate innovation and improvement in fall prevention strategies for older Kiwis.Have a News story to share?Contact [email protected]

The Government has confirmed that Budget 2025, named the "Growth Budget," will be delivered on Thursday, 22 May.Finance Minister Nicola Willis announced the date and outlined the Budget’s focus on economic growth and fiscal management.“This year’s Budget will drive forward the Government’s plan to grow our economy to improve the incomes of New Zealanders now and in the years ahead,” Willis said.The Minister added that Budget 2025 would continue efforts to "secure New Zealand’s future prospects" and address what she described as "Labour’s era of wasteful spending."According to Willis, the Budget will introduce "bold steps to support economic growth," including initiatives to address New Zealand’s productivity challenges. These measures, she noted, would extend beyond traditional spending and savings initiatives.“The Government intends to introduce several legislative and regulatory measures at the Budget focused on removing barriers that hold back job and wealth creation for New Zealanders,” she stated.Willis said Budget 2025 would build on the previous year’s efforts to address the cost of living, improve health and education services, and strengthen law and order. She also mentioned plans for new social investment measures aimed at improving outcomes for those in greatest need.The Government’s Budget priorities were outlined in the Budget Policy Statement 2025, released on 17 December.Budget 2025 will be presented in Parliament on 22 May.Have a News story to share?Contact [email protected]

Locals on the Hibiscus Coast and across New Zealand will notice changes to speed limits on certain roads as the government begins reversing reductions implemented under the previous administration.The first changes take effect tonight, with further adjustments to be completed by 1 July 2025.Minister of Transport Chris Bishop announced the reversals, stating that the new Land Transport Rule: Setting of Speed Limits 2024 requires the NZ Transport Agency (NZTA) and local councils to revert speed limits lowered since January 2020 on specified roads.The new rule mandates that NZTA and councils prioritise reversing speed limits on 38 sections of state highways automatically, while 49 other sections will undergo public consultation.Communities will have six weeks to provide feedback on whether to retain current lower limits or revert to previous higher speeds.Local councils have until 1 May 2025 to identify roads subject to reversal.Mr Bishop also highlighted the government’s focus on road safety, particularly around schools.By 1 July 2026, urban streets outside schools will require a 30km/h variable speed limit during pick-up and drop-off times, while rural roads near schools will have limits of 60km/h or less.“We are prioritising the safety of Kiwi kids,” Mr Bishop said.“Countries like Norway, Denmark, and Japan, with strong road safety records, use 50km/h as the standard urban speed limit. Our government is committed to improving road safety outcomes.”The NZTA will integrate speed limit reversals with planned maintenance and project works to ensure efficiency.Public consultation on the 49 state highway sections begins tomorrow and will run for six weeks.Have a News story to share?Contact [email protected]

Hibiscus Coast residents who purchased the Cozy 360 Rotating and Convertible Car Seat with ISOFIX from Baby Way NZ Ltd between 1 September 2024 and 5 January 2025 are advised of a product recall due to a labelling issue.A specific batch of Model G405 car seats was sold with an incomplete ECE R44/04 safety label in a foreign language, a manufacturing oversight that does not comply with New Zealand safety regulations.Although the car seat meets all ECE safety standards, the missing complete label may cause uncertainty regarding certification and proper use.Baby Way NZ Ltd assures customers that the product remains safe for use.To resolve the issue, the company is providing a fix-up kit containing the correct English-language ECE R44/04 safety label and clear instructions on how to attach it to the car seat.Customers are encouraged to continue using the car seat, as it meets all necessary safety standards.Those needing assistance or wishing to request the fix-up kit can contact Baby Way NZ Ltd at [email protected] a News story to share?Contact [email protected]

The post-Covid reset has not gone smoothly for the hospitality sector, with a choppy recovery for restaurants, bars, hotels and tourism.Changes to the Accredited Employer Work Visa scheme, due to come into effect in stages from the end of the month, are expected to help ease short-term hospitality staff shortages.The new Minister for Economic Growth Nicola Willis is also hinting at changes to visitor visa requirements to boost visitor numbers.Industry representatives said changes to immigration demonstrated the government was listening.However, change was needed to address a shortage of highly skilled hospitality workers to match New Zealand's high-priced tourism industry.The gaps in the employment market were already affecting the cruise industry which was experiencing a sharp 20 percent fall in cruise visits this year, with a further 30 percent drop for next year's season.The cruise industry would not see a return to growth under current conditions, with a lack of industry coordination making it difficult to offer a consistent level of service, Craig Harris, the managing director of booking operator ISS-Mckay, said.The post-Covid industry had not returned to what it was, he said."The reset's been quite difficult," he said.The hotel industry had not fully recovered from the Covid lockdowns, but a more flexible immigration policy could improve labour productivity, Hotel Council director James Doolan said."Ever since we closed borders as part of Covid, we've had shortages in the hospitality sector. And those shortages have arisen in both skilled positions but also at times in unskilled positions in certain parts of New Zealand, like Queenstown."Some of the issues could be addressed by giving national hotel chains the flexibility to transfer staff to high demand areas - something they could not do under current immigration rules, Doolan said.Hospitality NZ communications manager Sam MacKinnnon said the industry was working to fill the skills gap with a coordinated approach to recruitment and skills development, but that approach also relied on having a skilled resident workforce to guide the process."There's currently no hospitality roles on the green list, and wage thresholds and lack of New Zealand recognized qualifications make it hard for a hospitality worker to obtain points needed for skilled migrant visa."In addition to low productivity, hospitality's revenue and earnings were under pressure.The latest data from payments company Worldline showed the value of spending on hospitality fell 2.7 percent in 2024 from a year earlier.The pain was acutely felt in cafes, restaurants and bars throughout New Zealand, Restaurant Association chief executive Marisa Bidois said.Some businesses closed down over the summer, while others were barely hanging on."Being able to reinstate industry specific advisors within the immigration department would assist in helping to process, visas more quickly, that's sort of one of our main issues."Despite all that, there's a lot of optimism that remains, and many businesses are very hopeful that things will start to pick up. That was the mantra for last year - 'Survive 'til 25'."The industry was hoping Louise Upston, the recently appointed minister responsible for tourism and hospitality, would be able to pick up where the former minister Matt Doocey left off, with a commitment to work on a longer-term strategy.