Consumer sentiment has soured amid tariff-induced economic uncertainty and rising food prices.The ANZ-Roy Morgan Consumer Confidence Index fell 5 points fell in May to 92.9 - a reading below 100 means overall sentiment remains pessimistic.It comes after business confidence fell for the third month in a row.The fall in consumer sentiment erased gains from April.ANZ chief economist Sharon Zollner said it was the first consumer survey where most people answered after the start of "tariff noise"."That could be a factor," she said. "Also, we're experiencing quite high food price inflation at the moment and that tends to go down very badly with consumers."Perceptions about the outlook for the economy over the next 12 months fell 4 points to a net negative 20 percent - indicating most people thought the economy would see bad times financially.A net 10 percent of people felt it was a bad time to buy a major household item, a key indicator for the retail sector."While that did lift 1 point, it's still a long way from suggesting happy days for the retail sector," Zollner said.Other questions in the survey showed a net 12 percent expected to be better off in a year's time, down 11 points.Household inflation expectations were largely steady, only easing 0.1 percentage points to 4.6 percent."That's a lot higher than a couple of months ago, with the jump possibly caused by global tariff talk, though household inflation expectations can also be sensitive to food prices," Zollner said."Household inflation expectations don't have a tight correlation with actual inflation outcomes," Zollner said. "But the perception that inflation is going to be so high is likely to contribute to the sense of a cost of living crisis, potentially dampening spending, if anything."ANZ continued to expect the Reserve Bank to cut interest rates three more times this year, lowering the Official Cash Rate to 2.5 percent."Our best judgement is that the RBNZ will end up just shoring up the recovery because it's nothing flash at the moment," Zollner said.

Big news for our little learners—Budget 2025 includes a $39.9 million investment to ensure all Year 0 to 8 students across the country get access to hands-on science kits.That means every classroom, including those here on the Hibiscus Coast, will soon be equipped to bring science lessons to life.The funding, spread over four years, will support the development and delivery of curriculum-aligned kits packed with experiments and equipment tailored to each year level.Education Minister Erica Stanford says the move is designed to spark excitement in science and help students build strong foundations in STEAM—Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics.“We want students to love learning about science,” says Minister Stanford.“Hands-on learning improves critical thinking and understanding, and that’s key to student success.”Teachers won’t be left to figure it all out alone.Alongside the kits, they’ll receive professional development modules to help confidently deliver engaging and practical science lessons.The first kits are expected to roll out at the beginning of the 2026 school year, and bilingual resources—plus dedicated pūtaiao kits—will ensure all learners are catered for.So, what does this mean for Coasties?For our local schools—from Orewa to Red Beach, Gulf Harbour to Millwater—it’s a huge opportunity.Practical science kits can turn the classroom into a mini lab, where kids can test, explore, question, and create. It’s not just about textbooks—it’s about discovery.And that kind of learning can ignite lifelong curiosity.The Government sees this as more than just education—it’s a strategic move to support the country’s future talent pipeline in fields like biotech, clean energy and agritech, where Kiwi innovation is already making waves globally.With the world changing fast, this initiative helps ensure our Coastie kids grow up not only equipped for the future—but excited about shaping it.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.Mighty Ape’s Bumpy Start to 2025Read moreMilldale’s Next Village Hub BeginsRead moreCoast Jobs You Should Know AboutRead morePenlink Progress Along SH1 and CoastRead moreInside Africa Opens in SilverdaleRead 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.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

Coast vape retailers—take note.A big shake-up to vaping rules is landing next month, and there’ll be no wiggle room once it hits.From 17 June, Health New Zealand and the Ministry of Health are introducing strict new regulations aimed at curbing youth vaping. These include:A total ban on disposable vapesNo more vape ads in-store or in newslettersOnline retailers can't show product images or link to overseas pagesHefty fines for non-complianceSpecialist vape stores will also be barred from promoting products to their existing customers—a move that signals just how serious the Government is about limiting young people’s access and exposure to vaping.Dr Corina Grey, Director of Public Health, says enforcement will be swift and focused.“There’s no grace period,” she confirmed, adding that compliance officers will be visiting stores with these new rules top of mind.While some changes began rolling out in December—including increased fines and new buffer zones around early childhood centres—this next batch is the toughest yet.The new laws align vaping promotion more closely with the tight restrictions already placed on tobacco products.For Coasties, this will likely mean changes to how vape shops in places like Silverdale, Orewa and Whangaparāoa look and operate.Retailers may need to adjust window displays and signage, and some products could vanish entirely from shelves.Why it matters?Vaping among young people has skyrocketed in recent years, and the Coast is not immune.These changes aim to reset the balance—keeping support in place for those quitting smoking while making it harder for under-18s to pick up a vape in the first place.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

If you've noticed a flurry of activity between Warkworth and Te Hana on your travels lately, you're not imagining things. NZTA’s Northland Corridor team is charging ahead with planning and investigations for the next stage of Ara Tūhono – Warkworth to Whangārei.In their latest update, NZTA confirmed that letters have now gone out to landowners within the emerging preferred corridor. This is a big step in a huge project aiming to improve safety and resilience for everyone travelling north. For Coasties, the most immediate benefit will be better connections through the notoriously difficult Dome Valley section once the Warkworth to Te Hana stretch is complete.Work is progressing on multiple fronts. Site investigations—geotech, ecology, archaeology and more—are now underway to help refine the route. NZTA says access to some private properties will be required for these checks, but that doesn’t automatically mean a property will be affected long-term.Further north, design work is also happening between Te Hana and Whangārei as the emerging preferred corridor is narrowed down. A final route is expected to be announced around August or September this year, following NZTA Board approval.Many locals have asked why the Brynderwyn Hills alternative isn’t being built first—or why a tunnel isn’t the solution. NZTA says a tunnel, while technically possible, would be too expensive and take far longer to build. The geology is also tricky. Instead, the current plan is more practical, quicker to deliver, and comes with less environmental disruption.As for timing, the Warkworth to Te Hana section is already well advanced in its planning. That’s why construction will start there first, with other sections running in parallel in the background.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

Auckland’s housing pipeline stayed steady in March, with 1,535 new dwellings consented across the region—offering a snapshot of where the city’s growth is heading and what types of homes are taking shape.While houses made up just 29% of March’s consents, a full half were for townhouses, flats, or other attached dwellings—pointing to the continued rise of medium-density living. Apartments made up the remaining 21%. It’s a trend that reflects Auckland’s shift towards more compact, walkable urban spaces—especially near transport.Nearly all new dwellings (95%) consented in the last 12 months were inside the Rural Urban Boundary (RUB), with 29% falling within walking distance (1.5km) of the rapid transit network. That’s good news for Coasties who commute or care about sustainable transport access across the wider Auckland region.Just 24 of March’s consents were on Kāinga Ora or Tāmaki Regeneration Company land, highlighting a continuing need for more public housing developments.As for builds being wrapped up, 1,255 dwellings received Code Compliance Certificates (CCCs) in March, with over 16,300 completed in the year to March. That suggests a healthy pace of delivery—though still short of demand.Land development is also ticking along. In April, 507 new residential parcels under 5000m² were created, adding to the 14,714 new parcels carved out over the last year. These new titles help pave the way for future builds.Of interest to many Hibiscus Coast families and first-home buyers: the median Auckland house price for April was $1 million. Based on 1,957 sales, that figure shows a market holding relatively firm—despite broader economic uncertainties.The big picture? Housing activity is holding its ground. While we’re not seeing explosive growth, the steady stream of consents and completions means more homes are on their way. With many of them clustered near transport hubs and within existing urban zones, it’s a sign Auckland’s planning policies are kicking in.For Coasties keeping an eye on regional trends—or considering a move or build—it’s another piece of the puzzle when thinking about where and how Auckland grows next.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

It’s shaping up to be a milder, wetter winter across the Hibiscus Coast and upper North Island, according to NIWA’s seasonal outlook for June to August 2025.The region is expected to see above normal rainfall and warmer-than-usual temperatures, with a 65% chance of higher-than-average temperatures for Northland, Auckland, Waikato, and Bay of Plenty.Rainfall totals are most likely to be above normal (45% chance), and NIWA says we should expect occasional heavy rain events.Residual signs of La Niña are still lingering in the Pacific, and while international models predict a 70% chance of ENSO-neutral conditions over winter, La Niña-like patterns may still crop up occasionally.That means low pressure systems forming to our north could continue to bring moisture-rich air down over the Coast, increasing the risk of downpours.We’re also seeing higher than average sea surface temperatures around much of New Zealand, including marine heatwave conditions offshore.That warmth in the ocean adds extra fuel to rain-making systems and helps explain the higher-than-usual winter temperature forecast.For Coasties, this means fewer frosty mornings but a greater risk of sudden, heavy rainfall.It’s worth keeping gutters clear, checking stormwater drains, and staying alert to forecasts—especially during stormy weeks.Soil moisture and river flows across the North Island are expected to remain near normal, but localised flooding can still happen when intense bursts of rain hit already damp ground.While winter cold snaps and frosts aren’t off the table, they’ll be less frequent than usual.That might come as a relief to early risers and school-run parents—though gardeners and growers may need to adjust their plans for a warmer, wetter season ahead.As always, it’s a good idea to keep an eye on updates and alerts throughout winter.Our coastal weather can turn quickly, and with a few big lows predicted, staying informed can make all the difference.Watch NIWA’s Chris Brandolino as he breaks down what Kiwis can expect over the next three months.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

If you’re a dog owner on the Hibiscus Coast, it’s time to fetch that red tag—dog registration for the 2025/26 year is open now, and there’s a good reason to sort it before 1 August.Registering your dog early saves you money and avoids late fees.From 1 August, standard fees jump up by as much as $41, depending on your dog’s status.For example, a de-sexed dog registered on time costs $127.Miss the deadline? That jumps to $166.You’ll be getting a reminder from Auckland Council in mid-June—by email, text, or post—with your dog’s reference number.Once you’ve paid online via myAUCKLAND, a bold red tag will be sent out within 10 working days.This year’s red tag makes it easy to spot which dogs are registered and protected.For local animal officers—and even fellow Coasties—it’s a quick visual cue that your pet is compliant and cared for.The money collected from registration helps fund vital services like:reuniting lost dogs with their familiesmaintaining dog sheltersresponding to dog attacks and complaintsrunning safety education in schools and public areasPlus, $1 from every registered dog this year goes towards a targeted de-sexing programme to help reduce unwanted litters in high-risk areas.It’s a small gesture that could make a big difference across Auckland.If your dog isn’t microchipped yet, that’s a requirement too.From 1 July, you can get your dog microchipped for $40 at one of the Council’s shelters, and that record will go straight into the National Dog Database.Coast dog owners with multiple pets, working dogs, or a Responsible Dog Owner Licence (RDOL) also benefit from reduced rates—some as low as $76 if your pup’s desexed and you’ve got the licence.For all the details, fee breakdowns, and to manage your dog’s details online, head to: myauckland.aucklandcouncil.govt.nzLet’s keep our beaches, parks, and neighbourhoods safe and friendly—register your dog and get that red tag sorted today.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

Coasties with a craving for biltong or a bottle of Mrs Ball’s are in for a treat—Inside Africa is opening its doors in Silverdale tomorrow, from 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM.The new store, tucked into Unit 2 at 1 Alberto Lane (right next to Joe’s Garage), is the fourth Auckland location for this much-loved South African grocery brand.Founded in Howick back in 2001, Inside Africa has built up a loyal following with more than 2000 authentic products shipped straight from South Africa to New Zealand.You’ll find everything from traditional snacks to pantry staples, with new shipments arriving weekly to keep the shelves fresh and interesting.The Silverdale shop marks their fourth store to open in Auckland—and their northernmost one yet. It’s run by Owen and Melissa, who manage the NZ side of their multi-generation family business. “We’re really excited to open in Silverdale,” says Owen. “We’ve had lots of great feedback and people asking when we’re opening. The staff are going through some final training today and we’re all looking forward to seeing familiar and new faces from tomorrow.”Saturday’s grand opening promises a warm welcome, with free samples, giveaways, and some sharp opening specials for early visitors. It’s a great chance to stock up—or discover something new if you’ve never explored South African flavours before.And if you’re like me, you might be heading straight for the biltong. Just follow your nose!Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

Looking for plans?Explore events happening soon on the Hibiscus Coast and start planning your next activity!Liquorland Whangaparaoa Anniversary GalaSat May 31More detailsA Night at the DiscoSat May 31More detailsLearn to Salsa Dance Classes - Pure Beginners Sun Jun 1More details Want to see more events? Explore what’s happening in our community on the Hibiscus Coast App.Have an event to share?Promote it for FREE - click here

It may have been a day off for Orewa College students with a Teachers Only day, but the rest of the country got a wake-up call. Associate Education Minister David Seymour has confirmed the Government will take a much tougher stance on school attendance—including prosecuting parents who repeatedly refuse to send their kids to class.Under new measures announced this week, the Ministry of Education is actively working with schools and Attendance Service providers to identify families where persistent non-attendance is an issue. If parents ignore support systems and fail to engage, the Ministry won’t hesitate to take legal action.“Prosecution is a reality for parents who refuse to send their children to school and ignore supports,” Seymour said.Students with chronic illnesses, disabilities, or whose families are genuinely working with schools won’t be targeted. But for those who aren’t engaging, consequences are coming.The move is part of a broader plan to lift attendance across New Zealand. While numbers are slowly improving—with each 2024 term showing better rates than in 2023—the Government says that’s not enough. From Term 1, 2026, schools will be required to implement a formal attendance management plan, aligning with the new STAR system—Stepped Attendance Response.What does this mean for Coast families? If your child is missing more than 15 days in a term without a valid reason, you're likely to hit the STAR system’s “red light.” At that point, legal consequences become a real possibility.According to Seymour, about 10% of students fall into this category—and the Government is ready to act. The ultimate goal? No child left behind.“Attending school is the first step toward better health, higher incomes, and stronger communities,” he said.For Coasties, this means a stronger push from schools and the Ministry to keep kids in the classroom. With the Hibiscus Coast’s mix of working families, single parents, and commuter households, the pressure to balance schedules is real—but the message is clear: regular school attendance is no longer negotiable.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

There’s plenty on the line this Saturday at Eden Park as the Blues host the Waratahs in a must-win clash to stay alive in the Super Rugby finals race. Kick-off is at 4:35pm, and for several Blues fan favourites, this will be their last home game in the iconic blue jersey.It’ll be an emotional afternoon for supporters as they farewell Mark Tele’a, Ricky Riccitelli, Harry Plummer and Adrian Choat, all moving on at season’s end. It’s also a send-off of sorts for Rieko Ioane, who’s taking up an overseas sabbatical before returning to the Blues in 2027.Fans will be thrilled to see Tele’a back from suspension, slotting in on the right wing with his trademark energy. AJ Lam shifts into second five-eighth, and Finlay Christie earns the start at halfback. In the forwards, Anton Segner has been cleared to return after a heavy knock in Round 14.The bench sees the return of Adrian Choat from injury, with Jordan Lay and Sam Nock also adding punch. It’s a strong squad, and the Blues will need to fire on all cylinders to keep their finals hopes alive.But Saturday’s match isn’t just about the game. Players will wear their club rugby socks with pride—a nod to where it all began. And fans can soak up a full day of festivities, including the first-ever Waiata Singalong led by Dame Hinewehi Mohi DNZM. Post-match, the Eden Park turf will open for photos and autographs—a heartfelt thank-you to the loyal Blues supporters.For Coasties who’ve followed these players since their schoolboy rugby days or watched them go from club fields to Test match stadiums, Saturday’s game will feel personal. It’s one last chance to cheer them on from our side of the Harbour Bridge.Blues Team for Round 16*caps and club teams in bracketsStarting XV:Joshua Fusitu’a (34) (GTEC)Ricky Riccitelli (48) (Tukapa Rugby, Taranaki)Marcel Renata (63) (AURFC)Patrick Tuipulotu (capt) (121) (Ponsonby)Laghlan McWhannell (20) (Hautapu, Cambridge)Anton Segner (34) (Frankfurt)Dalton Papali’i (94) (Patumahoe)Hoskins Sotutu (75) (Marist / Manurewa)Finlay Christie (65) (Pukekohe / UC)Beauden Barrett (41) (Coastal, Taranaki)Caleb Clarke (72) (Ponsonby)AJ Lam (55) (GTEC)Rieko Ioane (125) (Ponsonby)Mark Tele’a (77) (Massey)Corey Evans (26) (GTEC)Reserves: 16. Kurt Eklund (72) (AURFC) 17. Jordan Lay (24) (AURFC) 18. Angus Ta’avao (79) (Marist) 19. Josh Beehre (24) (GTEC) 20. Adrian Choat (52) (Waitemata) 21. Sam Nock (79) (Kerikeri) 22. Harry Plummer (86) (GTEC) 23. Cole Forbes (27) (Te Puke)Unavailable due to injury:Cam Christie (thumb), Stephen Perofeta (leg), Reon Paul (shoulder), Cam Suafoa (medical, season), Ofa Tu’ungafasi (neck, season), Sam Darry (shoulder, season)Go the Blues!!Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

Coasties, here’s your quick-hit forecast for the long King’s Birthday weekend—so you know when to rug up, head out, or hunker in.Friday, 30/5Windy and partly cloudy. Breezy to brisk West to Sou'West winds.High: 18Low: 14Saturday, 31/5Windy and partly cloudy. Breezy to brisk West to Sou'West winds.High: 17Low: 14Sunday, 1/6Partly cloudy. Breezy to brisk West to Sou'West winds.High: 17Low: 12Monday, 2/6 (Kings Birthday)A mix of sun and cloud. Fairly breezy West to Sou'West winds.High: 17Low: 11Looking for more weather details? Check out our full 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!

If you’ve driven past State Highway 1 lately or taken a walk down by the Wēiti River, you might’ve spotted a few changes—Penlink is humming along this June with some major developments.The bridge deck’s now been poured at the SH1 overbridge, and earthworks crews have started shaping the new on and off-ramps. Over on Ara Weiti Road, pavement testing continues while workers install precast panels at Link Road 1 and build retaining walls near Link Road 2.Stillwater locals will notice more activity near the river. The piers are climbing skyward, and mulching is about to begin on the eastern side to make way for abutment B. Over at Duck Creek Road, tie-ins for the overbridge and retaining walls are progressing.From 16–19 June, the river will be temporarily closed while concrete work continues at Pier 4. Boaties can still navigate downstream, and a full 18-metre channel will reopen once work wraps up.Meanwhile, Whangaparāoa Road is getting night-works from 8 June for five nights near Wiriana Place, with crews installing drainage for the upcoming intersection. The two old site offices will be packed up soon too, as the team relocates to portable buildings near Cedar Reserve.Got questions? A community info session is set for 23 July from 16:00–19:00 at the Stillwater Boat Club—pop in for a chat.If you’ve been wondering about future plans, yes, the new SH1 overbridge is future-proofed for widening between Albany and Silverdale. And while some hoped for a roundabout at Whangaparāoa, the design team say traffic lights are a better fit for that busy intersection.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

A new trading app has just landed in New Zealand, promising to open up global markets to local investors—without the usual high costs.The platform, moomoo, originally founded in Silicon Valley in 2018, now boasts over 25 million users worldwide. Its New Zealand launch follows major success in Australia, where it quickly became the most downloaded online broker app.For Kiwi investors, it means access to over 22,000 shares and ETFs across the US, Australia, and Hong Kong. Of those, more than 15,000 US stocks and ETFs are available for just US$0.99 (about NZ$1.66) per trade.What makes moomoo different is its built-in learning tools and global online community, where users—from complete beginners to seasoned traders—can share strategies, insights, and market tips. It also offers around-the-clock access to US markets, making it easier for New Zealanders to trade in real time without worrying about time zone differences.Michael McCarthy, CEO for Australia and New Zealand, says the app is designed to break down barriers and help investors gain confidence in navigating international markets. From AI-powered tools to real-time data and expert news feeds, moomoo aims to make complex investing feel approachable.New users can enjoy 30 days of zero-commission trading on US and Australian shares and even earn free stocks with qualifying deposits. The app also supports options trading and dividend reinvestment plans for US stocks, offering greater flexibility for building long-term portfolios.Many Coasties are looking for smarter ways to grow their savings—especially as traditional investments feel out of reach. With moomoo’s low entry costs and built-in education, it could be a great stepping stone for locals keen to dip their toes into the world of global investing. For anyone curious about US markets but unsure where to start, this might just be the simplest way in.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

Fisheries Minister Shane Jones says a ban on taking crayfish from Northland's east coast is on the cards as warnings grow about the species' "perilous" decline.Jones said consultation on the proposal would start soon and would be controversial.The details were still being worked out, but it would likely entail a closure from a point south of Mangawhai to the Muriwhenua area at the top of the Far North.The ban would apply to both recreational and commercial fishers."I know that closing down crayfish over the Christmas holiday period will be quite a controversial decision, so the engagement is going to be very, very tricky," Jones said."The challenge will be, if recreational users are denied crayfish as it recovers, then should similar rules apply to tangata whenua through the kaimoana permit system that was agreed to in the Sealord settlement in 1992? I've already attracted quite a lot of adverse commentary from Northlanders about this, but it's a trade off … The resource genuinely is under extreme stress."Crayfish could be off the menu on Northand's east coast this summer as the population plummets. Photo: SuppliedThe minister said measures to protect the species were necessary both because of "legally adverse" decisions against the Crown, and the dire state of the crayfish population."The scientists have advised me that it's in a perilous state, and despite my status as an industrial champion of the fishing industry, it does get perilous if we're not following the best scientific advice. But I accept that for a lot of holiday makers and a lot of stakeholders in Northland, it will be a significant change," he said."These decisions are not for the faint hearted, but sometimes you've got to act and make very harsh calls, and I fear this may be one of them."The inner Hauraki Gulf, just south of the proposed new ban, had already been closed to crayfish harvesting for a period of three years starting from 1 April this year.Jones said local concerns about declining crayfish numbers in the Hauraki Gulf had been backed up by independent research."A number of recreational stakeholders are fearful that closure will never, ever be removed, but the scientists continually tell me that things are perilous."Jones said the ban would apply to red crayfish, also known as spiny rock lobsters, the species best known to Northlanders.It would not apply to the packhorse cray because its population was not as threatened.It would also not include Northland's west coast, where most commercial crayfish harvesting took place.The "legally adverse decisions" Jones referred to include a High Court ruling in February this year on the government's revised quota management plan for crayfish in Northland.The court found the plan did not do enough to address "an urgent marine crisis" unfolding off the region's east coast.Encouraging kina harvestingPhoto: EnviroStrat_ KinamonicsJones has also embarked on law changes to encourage increased harvesting of kina, or sea urchins.Kina are an important food source for crayfish and large snapper, but the predators' decline has led to an explosion in kina populations.That has caused the proliferation of "kina barrens", effectively underwater deserts where large numbers of kina have stripped away anything edible and reduced the seabed to bare rock.

Thinking about adding a granny flat to your backyard? That might soon be a whole lot easier. A new law change is underway that could remove the need for building consent on small standalone dwellings—like granny flats—up to 70 square metres.The Building and Construction (Small Standalone Dwellings) Bill just passed its first reading in Parliament and is expected to become law by the end of the year. If passed, it would allow simple, code-compliant granny flats—built by authorised professionals—to skip the usual building consent process. Homeowners would still need to notify council before and after the build and pay development contributions via a Project Information Memorandum (PIM).So what does that mean for Coasties? If you’ve been holding off on building a granny flat for mum, your adult kids, or even as an extra income source, this could be the green light you’ve been waiting for. The Government estimates the change could lead to 13,000 new granny flats across the country in the next decade—many of them in high-growth areas like ours.Associate Finance Minister Shane Jones says the move supports multigenerational living and lifts living standards—especially in places like the Hibiscus Coast, where demand for affordable housing options is strong. For young adults, retirees, or workers in our local trades and service sectors, the flexibility of these small dwellings could make a big difference.Just don’t rush ahead just yet—the law hasn’t changed yet. If you’re planning a build now, you’ll still need to go through the current consent process. The exemption will only apply once the law officially comes into force.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

Petrol price battles in Auckland - sparked by a new no-frills service station on the market - have seen prices fall as low as $2.12 a litre in some suburbs, but do not expect the big savings to last for long, says a fuel price expert.There are now nine U-Go self-service stations in Auckland, offering 91 unleaded at $2.23 a litre, when the average is about $2.51.In one Auckland suburb, the cheaper petrol led to an opposition gas station dropping the price as low as $2.12 over the weekend.But Automobile Association principal policy advisor Terry Collins warned motorists that those kind of prices would not last for long.He said U-Go has entered the market by dropping the price down low in a similar way to supermarkets with their loss leaders, where certain products are sold at cost."I think they've got very close to that margin and a neighbouring Mobil service station, rather than lose clients, responded by dropping their prices."If it is around $2.12, I don't think it's sustainable, but look, long may it continue if they do want to get into short-term price wars like that. I just think under $2.20 is a really good price."Read more: Z Energy Launches U-GO Station in ManlyHe told Checkpoint that the stations would be trying things like larger discounts over the weekend to see what happens with their volume of sales."They just want to get some new clientele, it's a pretty irresistible offer when you offer it at that price."I couldn't imagine it happening every weekend, but we do know they are competitive, they will have specials, they will have discounts, and they're basically trying to maintain volume in tough economic conditions."While U-Go stations were only currently operational in Auckland, motorists could expect to see more of them throughout the country, as more Caltex stations are converted to the low-cost model."What it's proven is that these low cost operators, consumers really like them, and now there is a definite niche in the market for them, we've got Allied, NPD, Gull, U-Go. They seem to be a growing segment of the market which provide cheaper fuel."Collins said oil prices on the international market had stabilised around $65 a barrel."With the US administration causing a bit of mayhem in the market, there is more bang for buck with US dollars, and oil prices are cheaper around the $60-65 mark."Z Energy, which owns the U-Go brand, did not directly respond to questions about whether the lower price was here to stay, saying pricing was localised and could be different at each site, depending on factors like competition.

If you’ve been hanging out for a break, good news—Monday 2 June is the King’s Birthday, giving us all a well-earned long weekend to enjoy.While King Charles III’s real birthday is in November, the celebration shifts around the Commonwealth to suit each country’s calendar.For New Zealand, that means the first Monday of June. It’s a tradition that started with British monarchs decades ago and we’re still happily following along.Unlike Easter or Anzac Day, there are no strict trading rules for this public holiday.That means most shops, cafes and supermarkets will be open as usual—but it’s still worth checking local hours just in case your go-to spot decides to take the day off.For Coasties, it’s a great chance to enjoy a family outing or head further afield.A few popular picks:– Weekends of Wonder at Auckland Museum (free fun for all ages)– Auckland Winter Armageddon Expo (for comic, gaming, and pop culture fans)– Matakana Sunday Market (perfect for foodies and gift hunters)And if you’re curious about how the UK celebrates?Their official King’s Birthday Parade is a big royal affair—complete with a 41-gun salute, flyovers, and the royal family waving from Buckingham Palace.It airs on 14 June, live on the BBC.But for Coasties, the focus is on making the most of the Monday off.Whether it’s a cosy coffee catch-up, a local day trip, or just some quiet time at home as winter kicks in—it's a welcome pause in the middle of the year.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]