A member of an Auckland flight training facility has left a message in the sky during a flight.On Flightradar24, the aircraft's flight path can be seen spelling out the message 'I love you'.A spokesperson for North Shore Aero Club confirmed one of their members, who did a lot of night flying, piloted the Alpha R2160 plane.The plane was flown over Auckland city and Warkworth on Monday night.Its pilot told RNZ they wished to remain anonymous."Not having flown at night in a while, I wanted to practise manoeuvres at night whilst writing a message that would make anyone smile."North Shore Aero Club said the pilot was not on its staff ,and worked for Island Aviation.Island Aviation has been approached for comment.

A Google search shows that there are at least 11 vape stores operating on the Hibiscus Coast.Despite recent legislation aimed at limiting youth access to vaping products, concerns are growing about the close proximity of these stores to local schools.New research, led by Ronan Payinda, a fourth-year medical student at the University of Auckland, reveals that 44% of schools are located within one kilometre of a specialist vape store, and 13% have one within just 300 metres. Payinda's study, published in the Australian and New Zealand Journal of Public Health on 7 May, shows that youth are being exposed to vape marketing and stores on a daily basis. He argues that this constant exposure puts young people at risk of developing nicotine addiction.Payinda, who witnessed the rise of vaping during his time at school in Northland, says Aotearoa New Zealand is not doing enough to address the health risks associated with vaping. Since 2020, it has been illegal to sell vapes to anyone under 18, but youth vaping rates remain concerning. In 2021, 26% of secondary school students reported having vaped in the previous week.Although legislation passed in 2023 bans new vape stores from opening within 300 metres of schools and marae, existing stores are still allowed to operate. Payinda calls for stronger regulations to prevent the next generation from becoming addicted to nicotine.The study also highlights a significant disparity in the location of vape stores. Among the wealthiest schools, only 7% had a specialist vape store within 300 metres, compared to 40% of schools in the poorest communities. This inequity exacerbates existing socio-economic disparities and increases the likelihood of young people in disadvantaged areas being exposed to vaping products.Research from the United States has shown that exposure to e-cigarette marketing in retail stores increases the likelihood of middle and high-school students using vapes. Payinda echoes these concerns, pointing to emerging evidence of long-term health risks associated with youth vaping, including lower lung function and increased susceptibility to respiratory diseases like asthma and chronic bronchitis.The findings from Payinda's study underscore the need for more stringent vaping regulations to protect young people from the harms of vaping and ensure they are not exposed to harmful products near their schools.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

A person has been killed in an Auckland motorway crash, as collisions near Harbour bridge and on SH20 caused long delays during the morning commute.The sole occupant of a car in a single-vehicle crash on the South-Western Motorway died at the scene on Tuesday morning, police said.Northbound lanes on State Highway 20 between Nielson Street and Hillsborough Road had reopened by 8am but long delays would ease only slowly, NZTA said.Meanwhile, a two-truck collision on the Northern Motorway on Tuesday morning was delaying southbound traffic as lanes were cleared.

Fresh Coast Jobs for Fresh Starts! Check out this week’s top picks for local roles—and share with a mate who’s looking!Ryman HealthcarePosition: Housekeeper - Part TimeLocation: OrewaEnsure pristine cleanliness in a dementia unit, supporting a welcoming environment.Enjoy team benefits including discounts, fixed hours, and career development opportunities.View the full listing & applyMitre 10 MEGAPosition: Paint & Hardware Team MemberLocation: SilverdaleAssist customers with paint colours, tools, and hardware productsHelp maintain tidy displays and restock shelvesView the full listing & applyCareer Tip of the Week:When revising your CV, ensure your personal brand shines through by including a brief summary at the top. Focus on your unique skills, achievements, and what sets you apart from other candidates.Help a friend discover their next career move—share these new opportunities with your network today!Need to hire fast? Get noticed locally.Reach thousands on the Coast for $97 + GST. Post your job today.Explore more local job openings on our jobs page.

Auckland Council’s plan to turn Takapuna's iconic golf course into a permanent wetland could result in millions of dollars in lost property value, according to property experts. The Council aims to replace the nearly century-old course with a wetland reservoir to manage stormwater during extreme weather. However, experts argue that a redesign preserving the golf course could offer flood protection and keep the community asset intact.International golf architect Kristine Kerr and engineers propose an alternative dry basin design that could meet the flood storage goals without disrupting the golf course. The new design would not require public notification, enabling quicker implementation and providing flood protection much earlier than the Council’s wetland proposal.The 18-hole North Shore course draws over 220,000 visitors annually, contributing significantly to Auckland’s tourism and sporting infrastructure. It offers year-round access for all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned players, and has helped launch the careers of top international stars like Dame Lydia Ko.Real estate expert Ben Macky from Sotheby’s International Realty warns that the loss of the course could decrease property values in Takapuna by up to 15%. With homes averaging nearly $2 million, that’s a potential loss of $194,000 per property, translating into millions of dollars in total value loss for the area. Ben Macky - International Realty.Macky highlights that properties backing onto the course or with views of the greens would likely be hit hardest, as these homes are typically the most valuable in the suburb.“This isn’t just about the view,” Macky explains. “It’s about the lifestyle and access to amenities like golf courses. People pay a premium for that, and removing the course would have a disproportionate impact on demand, slowing sales, and dampening market confidence.”Macky also draws on international research, which shows that homes adjacent to golf courses can command premiums of up to 26%. The removal of the Takapuna course, he warns, could have lasting effects on local businesses, homeowners, and property market dynamics.Takapuna Golf Club spokesperson Stephen Dowd says that the Council has not formally considered the alternative dry basin redesign put forward by the club. The design would allow the course to store over 550 million litres of floodwater while remaining playable, and it would include walking and cycling paths, native plantings, and new educational spaces for the public.Dowd points out that the golf course operates as a self-funding entity, contributing millions in rates and rental income to the Council over the next decade. Replacing the course with a wetland would shift maintenance costs to the Council and ratepayers, he says, creating a long-term financial burden.“The loss of this asset, along with the potential negative impact on surrounding property values, would be a massive cost to the ratepayer,” Dowd adds. “We have a practical, proven design that can preserve green space, support sport, and improve flood resilience without placing additional burdens on the public.”Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

We’ve all heard of the “elevator pitch” – a brief, persuasive summary of what you do, ideally delivered in under 30 seconds.But as we become more established in our businesses, we can sometimes fall into the trap of thinking this kind of pitch is only for newcomers or start-ups.That couldn’t be further from the truth.In reality, the elevator pitch remains one of the most valuable tools at any stage of your business journey.Whether you’re just starting out, pivoting, launching a new service, or looking to grow, being able to clearly and confidently articulate what you do – and why it matters – can open doors you didn’t even know were there.It’s not about reciting a script. A great elevator pitch is: • Clear and concise • Engaging and relevant • Natural, not robotic or salesyThink about it this way: if someone asked, “So, what do you do?” as the lift doors closed, would your answer keep them listening until the doors opened again?By the time you reach the 10th floor, the person beside you should understand your offering – and be interested in learning more.Even if you rarely find yourself in actual elevators, the idea is a metaphor.Opportunities to make an impression can happen anywhere: at networking events, business lunches, community gatherings, or even chance encounters in line for coffee. Being ready matters.Tips for Crafting a Strong Elevator Pitch1. Know Your GoalStart by being clear on what you want to achieve.Are you introducing your business? Promoting a new service? Attracting a strategic partner?You can create tailored versions of your pitch depending on the situation or audience.2. Focus on Solutions, Not Just ServicesDon’t simply list what you do.Instead, frame it around how you help. What problems do you solve? What outcomes do your clients or customers get from working with you?People remember stories and results, not job titles.Instead of saying: “I’m a plumber” …. say: “I help homeowners solve urgent plumbing issues quickly and reliably – so they can get back to normal without the stress and mess.”3. Highlight Your Unique Selling Proposition (USP)What sets you apart from others in your field? Is it your experience, your approach, your technology, or your values?This is your chance to stand out.Be authentic and confident about what makes you different.4. Engage with a QuestionA strong pitch invites conversation. End with an open-ended question that encourages a meaningful response.For example:
“How do you currently manage that aspect of your business?” or “Is that something you’ve come across in your industry?”Questions like these not only continue the dialogue but also show that you’re genuinely interested in the other person - not just pitching to them.5. Pull It All Together
Once you’ve written your pitch, read it out loud. Time yourself. It should be no longer than 30 seconds.Avoid jargon, clichés, or complicated explanations.You’re aiming for simple, relatable language that resonates.6. Practice Makes PerfectRehearse until it feels second nature. Say it to your mirror, record yourself on your phone, or test it on a colleague.The more you practice, the more naturally it will flow – especially under pressure.A Final TipAlways carry business cards or be ready to share your contact details.If your pitch lands well, make it easy for the other person to follow up.Want Help With Yours?Crafting the perfect pitch can be tricky—but it’s worth the effort.If you'd like help refining yours, or just want a fresh set of ears to test it on, feel free to get in touch. I'm always happy to help.

A state-of-the-art air ambulance helicopter has officially been commissioned, marking a significant leap in emergency medical response across Auckland and Northland.Announced by Associate Health Minister Hon Casey Costello and ACC Minister Scott Simpson, the Leonardo AW169 helicopter is now operational at Northern Rescue’s Ardmore base.“This new helicopter will greatly enhance the delivery of aeromedical services in our regions, making sure people get the best possible care, especially in challenging conditions,” said Ms Costello during her visit. The upgraded aircraft is part of the Government’s broader initiative to modernise New Zealand’s air ambulance fleet.The AW169 boasts modern design features that improve flight performance, boost safety and reliability, and elevate patient care during transport. Its introduction is part of a national programme to replace ageing helicopters with more advanced, efficient models.“This helicopter is the third of nine new or near-new aircraft set to join the national fleet in 2024/25,” Ms Costello explained. “We’re replacing outdated aircraft across the country, ensuring quicker and safer transport for those in need.”The fleet renewal programme, supported by Health New Zealand and ACC, will eventually cover regions including Waikato, Bay of Plenty, Hawke’s Bay, and Wellington, with two additional aircraft arriving in Northland by July.“The new helicopter is a vital asset in enabling fast and reliable care for patients in rural and remote areas, where every minute counts,” said Mr Simpson. The initiative, funded through ACC Investment debt financing, is expected to save around $500,000 annually.This significant investment is aimed at improving air ambulance operations and preparing for future needs. As part of the project, the Government is also working to optimise how these resources are used, ensuring better outcomes for communities across the country.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

After a weekend of incidents and sirens across the Hibiscus Coast, Coasties might be wondering when the Government will boost anti-crime measures here, as they announce $1.3 million for central Auckland.The funding, from the Proceeds of Crime Fund, will support Business Improvement Districts (BIDs) in enhancing safety across the CBD and surrounding retail areas.Initiatives include improved lighting, more CCTV cameras, and increased security patrols to deter criminal and anti-social behaviour.Auckland Minister Simeon Brown noted the rise in antisocial and criminal behaviour in the area, which had prompted the Government’s decisive action. “This funding will directly support initiatives that help restore safety and law and order to our central city,” Mr Brown said.This funding comes in addition to the new Federal Street 24/7 police station set to open soon and an increase in police officers in the Auckland CBD. Together, these efforts are part of a broader plan to combat lawlessness and improve public safety.Associate Justice Minister Nicole McKee backed the initiative, emphasising Auckland’s importance as an economic and cultural hub. “Auckland’s CBD is vital to New Zealand’s economy, contributing 8% of our national GDP. Ensuring the safety of everyone here is a top priority for me,” Ms McKee said.The Proceeds of Crime Fund, which converts seized criminal assets into community safety funding, will help support these measures and provide a tangible return on crime-related harm.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

May is NZ Music Month, and what better way to celebrate than with the launch of iHeartCountry New Zealand this Friday, May 9th! Exciting news for country music lovers here on the Hibiscus Coast—you'll soon be able to tune in to the best of country music all day long.iHeartCountry will be broadcasting on 105.4 FM in Auckland and across eight other markets, bringing hits from your favourite artists like Morgan Wallen, Luke Combs, Keith Urban, and Kaylee Bell. Whether you’re cruising through Silverdale on your way to the City or enjoying a quiet moment at home, you can enjoy country tunes wherever you are.You can also listen live on the iHeartRadio app, so you’ll never miss a beat—perfect for those of us always on the go or cosying up at home as the weather cools.This new station adds to the growing country music scene here in New Zealand, following the launch of Southern Cross Country in November 2023. Before that, Auckland’s last dedicated country station, FM Country, went off the air in 1997.So, Coasties, get ready to enjoy the country hits you've been waiting for! Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

Cashflow is the heartbeat of any small business.Profit means little if you can’t pay the bills. For many New Zealand SME’s, especially those with seasonal swings or tight margins, managing cashflow is the difference between thriving and merely surviving.Here’s how to keep more money in your bank account (not just on your profit and loss report).1. Get Paid FasterSpeed up receivables:Invoice immediately – Don’t wait until “the end of the month”. Automate invoicing in Xero right after the job is done.Tighten payment terms – Consider 7 or 14 day terms instead of the standard 20th of the following month.Follow up consistently – Use invoice reminders or assign someone to follow up weekly.Tip: Use Stripe to let customers pay directly from the invoice — no excuses.2. Slow Down Payments (without Burning Bridges)Ease pressure on cashflow by managing supplier payments:Negotiate supplier terms – If you’re on 7 day terms, ask for 20 or 30. Reliable customers often get flexibility.Use your credit card wisely – Pay now using your card, then take advantage of up to 55 interest-free days.Stagger payments – Prioritise by due date, relationship importance and what’s due vs available cash.3. Forecast Like a ProA 13-week rolling cashflow forecast is one of the most powerful tools in any SME owner’s kit.Early predictions – know when cash is tight before it happens.Plan for GST and Provisional Tax – these bills are regular and predictable - build them in.Model 'what-if' scenarios – What happens if sales dip or you hire someone new?Tip: A simple spreadsheet can do the trick or there is forecasting software available.4. Boost Margins, Not Just Cut CostsImproving cashflow isn't always about trimming expenses — it’s also about improving what is earned per sale.Review your pricing – Are you charging enough to sustain your business?Drop low-margin jobs – Focus your energy where the money is.Consider package deals – Offer higher-value options, add-ons, or recurring options.5. Finance IntelligentlyExternal funding isn’t evil if it helps to smooth gaps or unlock growth.Tax pooling – use services like Tax Traders or TMNZ to ease the burden of provisional tax. Your accountant can set this up.Invoice finance – Get paid 80–90% of the invoice upfront to free up cash.Short-term loans – Useful for bridging seasonal gaps but ALWAYS check the interest and terms.6. Avoid the Common Cashflow KillersOverstocking – Inventory is just cash sitting around.Drawing too much – Don’t empty your shareholder current account too fast. Keep aside at least 25% for tax and 15% for GST.Late GST or PAYE – The penalties hurt. If you’re stuck, talk to IRD early about instalment plans.Buying vehicles and other assets which are more expensive than what is necessary or can be afforded. The funds to buy the assets ultimately come from profits and reduce the amount you can draw from your business.Final ThoughtCashflow is about good habits and clear visibility.Businesses that stay on top of their cashflow gain control, resilience, and room to grow.In today’s economic climate, that is your competitive edge.If you would like help with building a simple cashflow forecast or reviewing your payment terms, let’s talk.At David Hooper Chartered Accountants, we specialise in helping small businesses optimise their finances and improve cashflow. Get in touch today at [email protected] or call 09 421 1635.

The Government is ramping up efforts to improve educational outcomes for Kiwi kids, aiming to close the equity gap and ensure all students have the skills they need for future success. Education Minister Erica Stanford shared these ambitious changes as the new term began, outlining key measures designed to boost learning across the country.As schools kicked off Term 2, students can expect:A ban on cell phone use in schools to help students focus on their learning.An hour a day dedicated to reading, writing, and maths for primary and intermediate students.A new, world-class curriculum that will be taught consistently from Year 1 to Year 13, starting with English and maths.Over 836,000 resources to support the new maths curriculum.Mandated teaching of phonics and structured literacy to give every child the best start in reading.Phonics checks for students at 20 and 40 weeks to track progress.$3.2 million over 2025/2026 to support tier 2 teachers for extra literacy help in 962 schools.$3 million to provide 3,000 Year 7-8 students with 12 weeks of intensive maths tutoring.Professional development for over 20,000 teachers in structured literacy and maths.NCEA co-requisite literacy and numeracy support for 9,100 students.Minister Stanford is keen to measure the success of these changes, with the Education Review Office (ERO) tasked with monitoring progress. Early results are promising, with ERO’s findings showing a positive shift in teacher practices, student engagement, and literacy improvements.“Two-thirds of teachers report significant changes to their teaching methods, with many noting the impact on student engagement and literacy,” Ms Stanford said.The Government’s support extends to Māori-medium education, with the same reforms being implemented across both English and te reo Māori education systems, ensuring all students, regardless of location, have the same opportunities to succeed.On the physical side of education, the Government is committed to ensuring Kiwi kids learn in safe, warm, and modern classrooms. Over the past year, school property delivery has seen significant improvements, including a 35% increase in standardised classroom designs. This has resulted in a 28% reduction in the price per classroom and the construction of 137 additional classrooms in 2024 compared to 2023.“By streamlining the building process, we’ve freed up $100 million to build new schools and classrooms in areas with growing populations,” Ms Stanford added.She praised the dedication of New Zealand’s educators, thanking principals, teachers, and support staff for their efforts in driving this transformation. With these reforms, the Government aims to equip every child with the skills and knowledge they need to thrive in life.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

A new toolkit aimed at helping women and their employers address online harm has been launched by Minister for Women, Nicola Grigg, at the Local Government New Zealand conference.The initiative, developed in collaboration with Netsafe, is designed to equip women with strategies and resources to navigate online abuse, a growing issue that disproportionately impacts women in leadership roles.“The prevalence of online harm has become a serious issue, particularly for women in the public eye,” said Minister Grigg.“This growing phenomenon of online abuse has the very real potential to discourage women from stepping into leadership positions and participating in public life.”The toolkit offers interactive educational modules, practical resources, and real-world case studies from women in leadership.It includes insights into how to manage and overcome digital harm, which has been shown to lead to self-censorship, avoidance of digital platforms, and a decrease in public engagement.Minister for Women, Nicola Grigg.“The toolkit aims to ensure women can engage online safely and confidently while contributing to a more supportive digital environment,” Grigg said.“I encourage all workplaces to explore these resources, so we can collectively combat online harm and support those affected.”The toolkit is available on both the Ministry for Women and Netsafe websites, offering valuable guidance to all who seek to create a safer, more supportive digital space for women.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 the most important news, stories, and updates for the Hibiscus Coast community.Public Warned About Sea Snake at OmahaRead moreAI Education Coming to New Zealand SchoolsRead moreHarbour Hospice Needs Your Help, Coasties!Read moreNew Safety Cameras Coming to Pine Valley RdRead morePenlink Project Updates for CoastiesRead moreStay Connected, Stay Informed. Get the latest updates, stories, and events from around the Hibiscus Coast—right at your fingertips.Download the Hibiscus Coast App now for instant access to local news and stay ahead of the curve—whenever, wherever. Don’t miss out on the stories that matter most to you!Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

Star Wars fans around the world celebrate May 4th as the ultimate day for all things Jedi, Sith, and the Force. The iconic phrase, “May the Fourth be with you,” is a playful pun on “May the Force be with you,” making it the perfect reason to dive into the Star Wars universe.A Bit of History Behind the DayThe phrase first appeared in 1979 in a congratulatory ad from the Conservative Party to Margaret Thatcher on her becoming the UK Prime Minister. However, it wasn’t until later that Star Wars fans embraced it, turning May 4th into an annual celebration. What began as a grassroots movement has now become a global fan holiday.Streaming and Special EventsWhile there are no confirmed television broadcasts of the Star Wars movies for May 4th, in New Zealand, there’s still plenty to enjoy. Disney+ remains the go-to streaming service for Star Wars content, offering access to all the films and popular series like Andor, The Mandalorian and Ahsoka.So, whether you’re rewatching the saga, attending a local event, or diving into the latest Star Wars content online, May 4th is the perfect day to celebrate your love for the galaxy far, far away.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

The Government is pushing ahead with plans to bring open banking to New Zealand by Christmas, Commerce and Consumer Affairs Minister Scott Simpson announced.The move follows the passing of the Customer and Product Data Act, a key part of the Government's action plan to improve competition in crucial sectors like banking and energy. Cabinet has agreed to make banking the first sector to operate under the new Act, setting the stage for open banking.Under the new framework, customers will be able to give third-party companies access to their banking data. Fintechs can then use this data to develop innovative services like faster payments, streamlined mortgage comparisons, and apps that help consumers save money. The big four banks – ANZ, ASB, BNZ, and Westpac – will need to have their systems ready by December 1, while Kiwibank has until June 2026.For Coasties, this means more options and better deals when it comes to managing money, paying bills, or finding the best mortgage rates. Small local businesses might also benefit from the increased competition between banks, as new financial services could offer them better solutions for managing cash flow or processing payments more efficiently. This change could even encourage more innovation in the local financial tech space, leading to new products and services designed specifically for the needs of our community.The new policy is aimed at increasing competition and lowering costs for Kiwis. Minister Simpson says the Government is committed to improving consumer choice and ensuring the banking sector works for everyone. Open banking has already seen success overseas, with apps that help Australians quickly find and cancel forgotten subscriptions or streamline home loan applications.With the introduction of open banking, New Zealand is set to see more competitive and innovative offerings in the market, just in time for Christmas. This shift will give consumers greater control over their finances and more options when choosing banking services.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

New Zealand's biggest bank says house prices should lift more meaningfully over the second half of this year, but values are likely to only rise 4.5 percent in 2025, not the 6 percent it previously forecast.ANZ's economists noted house sales rose 3.4 percent in March but the strong flow of new listings meant buyers had significant choice.The total amount of stock on the market lifted 0.6 percent in March on a seasonally adjusted basis and was the highest in 10 years."Prices will start to lift more meaningfully once the excess inventory has been worked through and that will take time."They said with Auckland's housing market stock at the highest level since 2011, it was not surprising sellers were being more realistic about their asking prices."The sales-to-listings ratio is a useful indicator of heat in the housing market and tends to give a three- to six-month lead on house price momentum."A decent bounce in sales volumes in March was largely offset by another lift in listings, and the sales-to-listings ratio remains consistent with lacklustre growth in house prices in the near term."They said the auction clearance rate had also been steady at around 40 percent in recent months."The median days to sell were steady in March at 46 seasonally adjusted, still a long way north of the long-run historic average of 29."It's been hovering around that level for several months now. While that's consistent with the housing market having stabilised, we'd need to see median days to sell beginning to fall before one could conclude the market is on a tightening trajectory."All together, the factors indicated the market was stabilising but "not going anywhere fast".They said the Reserve Bank was likely to cut the official cash rate twice more, to a low of 2.5 percent, where it would remain for a year or so."That will underpin housing market momentum further out. It's important to stress that while the here and now remains tough-going the economy is on an improving trajectory."They said global turmoil was a headwind and there was uncertainty about how it would play out for New Zealand as a whole, and the housing market.

Z Energy (Z) has introduced a new self-service fuel station on Whangaparaoa Road in Manly, under its U-GO network. This move aims to offer locals a low-cost and simplified refueling option.Andy Baird, Z's GM of Customer, explained the growing demand for a no-fuss fuel experience. "We’re seeing an increasing number of Kiwis who want a simplified, low-cost fuel and go option. The U-GO network will help us meet these customers’ needs."The new U-GO station, located on a portion of Z’s existing network, eliminates the typical convenience store or loyalty programmes, making it a streamlined experience. Baird added, "This will allow us to provide a consistent offer under the one brand."This move will bring more competition to the self-service fuel market in New Zealand, a development Baird believes is great news for Kiwis looking for more competitive pricing.The U-GO stations will offer a variety of fuels, from unleaded 91 to high octane premium unleaded and diesel. The fuel offering is simple, with no frills—just good value and convenience.As the saying goes, "U Pay, U Pump, U-GO!"Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

A woman is concerned that changes by BNZ to the way that people access internet banking could affect people who have older smartphones, or do not have one at all. BNZ has written to customers telling them that NetGuard cards, which are used as a method of two-step authentication for online banking, will be removed as a way to confirm identity.Instead, people would need to use the app.But Judith, who did not want to be identified, said her husband's phone was from 2017 and the app would not work on it."This is entirely wrong in many ways. As a customer, you don't have any choice about this change, although we have done online banking for many years, we don't ever do banking on our phones, presumably they expect us all to buy a new phone."Gayle Chambers, national president of Grey Power, said it was something her organisation needed to look into.A BNZ spokesperson said the bank was always looking for ways to upgrade its security measures."We understand some customers' disappointment about the phasing out of NetGuard cards as an authentication method and our teams are available in branch, online or on the phone to help customers manage this change."NetGuard cards were first introduced in 2006. However, since then industry standards and two-step authentication methods have evolved, along with the functionality of our BNZ app. This means NetGuard cards are no longer the most secure method for authentication."Unfortunately, we have seen a number of customers who have been convinced to share the details of their NetGuard card with scammers. Once these details have been shared, it is almost impossible to protect a customer's money."She said over time mobile phone manufacturers would discontinue support for hardware and not provide system updates for older devices."This poses a security risk as customers are less likely to be able to install security patches, leaving their devices more vulnerable. It also becomes increasingly difficult for us to maintain the functionality of older applications across an increasing number of older operating systems and devices."She said customers without the BNZ app could still log in to internet banking with their access number and password. It would also not affect customers shopping with a credit or debit card."Additional authentication is only required for high-risk transactions, such as paying someone new, creating and editing payees, updating their contact information and international payments. In these situations, customers are able to contact our team either through phone banking or in branch, to help them complete two-factor authentication."Paul Brislen, chief executive of the Telecommunications Forum, said the situation was inevitable."The authenticator apps are free and easy to use but do need a modern phone … but by modern I mean one that is still supported by the software vendor. "He said while people might be happy with a phone from 2017, the software was not supported and the phone was exposed to security breaches.He said such a device should not be used for banking."We're in the throes of shutting down the 3G networks too so this will encourage a number of customers to upgrade to more capable devices shortly and the number of affected parties will drop to around zero."

At the New Zealand Champions of Cheese Awards 2025, nearly 200 of the country's finest cheeses were awarded prestigious gold, silver, and bronze medals.A total of 199 cheeses from over 240 entries were recognised for their exceptional quality and innovation.The judging process took place at WINTEC in Hamilton, with Master Judge Jason Tarrant leading a panel of thirty expert judges and twenty stewards.Among the standout winners, Puhoi Valley’s exceptional offerings were a highlight, earning three gold medals for its Cow's Milk Feta, Goats Milk Feta, and Single Cream Camembert.The achievements reflect the dedication and passion of the Puhoi Valley team in producing top-tier, award-winning cheeses.This recognition underscores the growing quality and reputation of locally produced products, with the Hibiscus Coast, home to Puhoi Valley, showcasing its contribution to New Zealand’s thriving cheese industry.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.