Auckland Council is embracing cutting-edge technology to enhance its customer experience with the launch of a new AI-powered digital assistant, ‘Ask Auckland Council’. The initiative, underpinned by Google Cloud technology, aims to simplify how Aucklanders access council services and information across multiple digital platforms.The pilot program, funded by Google Cloud and developed in partnership with Deloitte, will be trialled as part of a new phase of innovation led by the council’s Group Shared Services division. Presented at the Revenue, Expenditure and Value Committee meeting in February, the technology is expected to revolutionise how Aucklanders interact with the council, providing quicker, more efficient access to information.“It’s incredibly positive to see Auckland Council leading the way with new technology and innovation that holds great potential to deliver better service for all Aucklanders, at no cost to the ratepayer,” says Deputy Mayor Desley Simpson. “The scale of this makes it one of the largest applications of this technology in New Zealand and could be leveraged by other councils too.”The digital assistant will assist users in finding the information they need by centralising access across all council platforms.With over 1.5 million calls received annually by Auckland Council, and a large amount of region-wide services and information available online, navigating the council's systems can be a challenge for many.Ask Auckland Council will significantly reduce the effort involved in locating services and resources, providing Aucklanders with a seamless experience."We are thrilled to work alongside Auckland Council and Deloitte to help make information about public services more accessible for Aucklanders," says Paul Dearlove, head of Google Cloud, New Zealand. "By harnessing the power of Google Cloud’s AI platform, we are helping empower Aucklanders to easily find the information they are after, creating a more seamless and intuitive experience across Auckland Council's digital platforms."Auckland Council’s group shared services director, Richard Jarrett, explained that the technology is still in its prototype stage and will undergo careful testing to ensure its effectiveness.“Shifting from prototype to testing with Aucklanders is the next planned phase,” says Mr Jarrett.“Providing a single channel that is user-friendly and navigates our multiple websites will benefit Aucklanders, particularly when looking for information or help.”While the pilot will initially be in English, the long-term goal is for the tool to support multiple languages, reflecting New Zealand’s diverse, multicultural population. The council aims to introduce the tool in the country’s three official languages—English, Māori, and New Zealand Sign Language—before expanding further.“Over time, we will introduce additional languages, so it becomes a multilingual digital assistant that enables our customers to provide us with feedback, access the right information, and connect with the right council service,” says Mr Jarrett.The Ask Auckland Council assistant is expected to launch later this year, promising a more efficient, customer-friendly experience for Aucklanders and visitors alike.Have a story to share from your neighbourhood? We’d love to hear from you! Send your news tips and stories to [email protected]

Your weekend weather at a glance.Coasties, here’s what the next four days have in store:Friday, 28/2 Mainly sunny. Fairly breezy Easterly winds.High: 26Low: 17Saturday, 1/3Partly cloudy. Breezy Northerly winds.High: 25Low: 16Sunday, 2/3Partly cloudy. Breezy Sou'West winds.High: 26Low: 15Monday, 3/3Mainly sunny. Breezy West to Sou'West winds.High: 26Low: 16Looking for more 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!

Good news Coasties, Tourism continues to be a cornerstone of New Zealand’s economy, with international visitors spending a remarkable $16.9 billion in the 12 months leading to March 2024. This marks a return to pre-pandemic levels, nearly matching the $17.2 billion recorded in 2019. The latest Tourism Satellite Account (TSA) data released earlier this week by Stats NZ underscores tourism's position as New Zealand’s second-largest export earner.Total tourism expenditure reached an all-time high of $44.4 billion, reflecting a robust 14.6% growth from the previous year. This surge highlights the sector’s recovery and expansion post-pandemic, reinforcing its role in supporting economic growth, creating jobs, and sustaining vibrant communities across the country."International tourism is absolutely crucial for New Zealand’s economy, and the data released today proves this," says René de Monchy, Chief Executive of Tourism New Zealand. "Spending by international visitors drives growth, supports businesses, creates employment, and makes our cities and towns vibrant."While the numbers reflect a steady recovery, de Monchy emphasised that there remains room for growth. “New Zealand’s tourism industry has the capability and capacity to welcome more international visitors who will help to grow New Zealand’s economy," she adds.Tourism New Zealand’s strategy focuses on nurturing year-round tourism, particularly during off-peak seasons. “We are working to create a sustainable tourism sector that thrives 12 months a year, providing stable jobs and creating lasting memories for visitors,” says de Monchy. A key part of this effort is a new campaign in Australia, designed to encourage short-term arrivals during the upcoming Autumn season.In addition to its economic contribution, tourism supports over 300,000 jobs across the country, with 1 in 9 New Zealanders directly or indirectly employed in the sector. The TSA data reveals that total international visitor arrivals reached 3.2 million in the year ending March 2024, a significant 44.8% increase from the previous year.Australia, the USA, China, the UK, South Korea, and Germany are New Zealand's top six holiday markets, making up the largest portion of international visitor spend.The tourism sector’s ongoing success is a testament to the resilience and potential of New Zealand's tourism industry. With continued support and targeted campaigns, it’s poised to remain a driving force in the country’s economic future.Have a story to share from your neighbourhood? We’d love to hear from you! Send your news tips and stories to [email protected]

Port of Auckland continues to see positive results from its strategic focus on customer service, safety, and shareholder value. Under the leadership of Chief Executive Roger Gray and Board Chair Jan Dawson, the port has reported solid growth and achieved significant milestones in infrastructure development, safety, and community engagement. With a record half-year profit and plans for future growth, the port’s strategy is positioning it as a key player in Auckland's economic future.The port has achieved a 98% increase in its underlying net profit after tax (NPAT), reaching $42 million for the first half of FY24. This marks a significant jump from last year’s results, driven by a strong performance in container trade, which rose 8% year-on-year. Despite challenges in the vehicle and construction sectors, CEO Roger Gray is optimistic about recovery in these markets later in the year. “We have been providing an improved and more reliable service, and our location is the optimal route to market for many customers,” said Board Chair Jan Dawson. She also highlighted the port’s ongoing commitment to safety with the introduction of the Approved Code of Practice and other safety initiatives.Gray echoed this sentiment, stating that the port’s continued efforts to enhance safety and efficiency, including the launch of the Health and Safety Performance Index, are crucial to its long-term success. The company has also invested in reducing its environmental impact, with the introduction of an Electric Empty Container Handler funded by the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (EECA).Looking to the future, Port of Auckland has increased its full-year NPAT expectations to $75-80 million. This growth is supported by strong revenue, which has risen 20% to $195.4 million compared to the same period last year. The port has also reduced its net debt by over $15 million, contributing to its financial strength and ability to invest in future growth initiatives. In line with its growth strategy, the port has filed its consent application for the completion of the Bledisloe North and Fergusson North wharves, which will allow for larger ships and enhance Auckland's capacity to handle increasing freight and tourism demands.For Aucklanders, Port of Auckland’s continued growth brings multiple benefits, including improved infrastructure, greater access to the waterfront, and better support for the city’s growing freight and tourism needs. Have a story to share from your neighbourhood? We’d love to hear from you! Send your news tips and stories to [email protected]

Eke Panuku, Auckland’s urban regeneration agency, will be fully integrated into Auckland Council by 30 June, following a decision by the council’s Governing Body late last year. The move is part of a broader structural reform aimed at streamlining council-controlled organisations (CCOs).From July onwards, Eke Panuku will cease to operate as a separate entity, with its functions absorbed into Auckland Council. However, the council has assured residents that urban regeneration projects will continue without disruption. The focus remains on delivering high-quality, vibrant town centres across the region.A key proposal being explored is the creation of a dedicated Auckland Development Office within the council. This unit—currently a working title—would manage most of the functions previously handled by Eke Panuku. There is also potential for the office to incorporate other council functions related to property and urban development.Legal, financial, policy, and operational systems are undergoing significant review to ensure a seamless transition. In addition, a staff consultation on proposed organisational changes is planned for mid-March.The council has emphasised its commitment to keeping stakeholders informed throughout the process, with further updates expected as the transition unfolds.Have a story to share from your neighbourhood? We’d love to hear from you! Send your news tips and stories to [email protected]

Auckland Council is taking a firm stance against unregistered dogs, issuing over 5,500 infringement notices as a last resort after multiple attempts to encourage compliance. The fines come as part of a broader initiative to tackle issues such as roaming dogs and dog attacks in the region.Councillor Josephine Bartley, Chair of the Regulatory and Safety Committee, stressed that dog registration is not optional. "This is the first time we’ve moved to last resort measures and issued infringement notices. Dog registration is a legal requirement designed to benefit both the community and pet owners," she explained.The notices are targeted at dog owners who have failed to register their pets after receiving a pre-infringement reminder. Auckland Council previously sent 22,929 notices in November, which led to a noticeable increase in registrations and more accurate data on the dog population. The initiative aims to reduce the number of roaming dogs and prevent attacks, ensuring that pets are properly vaccinated, de-sexed, and contained on their owners’ properties.Council staff have been working with owners to ensure compliance, with infringement notices now being sent to those who ignored the previous reminders. "We appreciate those dog owners who responded to the pre-infringement notices and did the right thing by registering their dogs and paying the fee," said Councillor Bartley. "But for those who haven’t, this is the final warning."The $300 fines reflect the council’s ongoing commitment to responsible dog ownership, as well as the need to ease the burden on ratepayers. "Responsible dog ownership begins with dog registration. Ratepayers should not have to bear the cost of irresponsible dog owners who refuse to register their animals," she added.Auckland Council’s Animal Management Manager, Elly Waitoa, echoed this sentiment, acknowledging the positive response from many dog owners but reinforcing the need for continued compliance. "The number of unregistered dogs has now reduced, which is a significant improvement. However, too many owners have still ignored their responsibilities. Our goal is for all dog owners to register their pets rather than face a fine."The council is urging the remaining unregistered dog owners to act immediately to avoid penalties. Pet registration is not only a legal requirement but a crucial part of maintaining a safe community.For more information on dog registration and compliance, visit the Auckland Council website.Have a story to share from your neighbourhood? We’d love to hear from you! Send your news tips and stories to [email protected]

For decades, the Great Overseas Experience (OE) has been a rite of passage for young Kiwis, but a new report from Auckland Airport shows the traditional OE is evolving. While London was once the top destination, its appeal is waning, with only 30% of future OE travellers planning a trip there—down from 39% in the past.The study found that Kiwis are opting for shorter, holiday-style OEs rather than long-term relocations. In the past, 28% stayed overseas for more than a year, but now only 10% expect to do the same. Instead, 60% of future OE travellers plan to spend less than three months abroad.Another key shift is the rising number of older Kiwis embarking on an OE. More than half of those surveyed intend to travel after turning 40, and one in five plans an OE in their 60s or later. However, the tradition remains strong for younger generations, with 65% of today’s 20-somethings planning an OE before 30.While the UK and Europe remain popular, new OE destinations are emerging. Cities like Sydney, Melbourne, Vancouver, New York, Tokyo, and regions such as California are gaining interest. Even more adventurous destinations—such as Bengaluru, Yunnan, and Navsari—are becoming part of the Kiwi travel map.In conjunction with the report, Auckland Airport has launched an 80-metre outdoor exhibition at its international terminal, showcasing real traveller photos and stories from six decades of Kiwi OEs. Auckland Airport Chief Customer Officer Scott Tasker highlighted the airport’s role in shaping the OE experience, stating, “We’re proud to be the gateway for Kiwis to explore the world. Our upgrades are about preparing for the future of travel—and for all those special OE trips to come.”One standout story in the exhibit belongs to Waikato’s Kay Clarke, who won Auckland Airport’s $10,000 OE competition. Clarke, who took an unconventional OE to the US West Coast in 1979, is now planning a new adventure to the UK.The findings from the Auckland Airport report reflect a modernised OE experience—shorter trips, older travellers, and a broader range of destinations—signalling a shift in how Kiwis see the world beyond their shores.Have a story to share from your neighbourhood? We’d love to hear from you! Send your news tips and stories to [email protected]

The North Shore’s policing efforts received a major boost today with the reopening of the Waitematā East District Custody Unit, designed to support frontline operations and reduce transport times for officers handling detainees.Located at the North Shore Policing Centre, the state-of-the-art facility officially reopened this morning, with Police Commissioner Richard Chambers, Minister of Police Mark Mitchell, and Waitematā District Commander Superintendent Naila Hassan in attendance.Commissioner Chambers emphasised the growing demand for police resources across the North Shore and Rodney, highlighting the importance of minimising time spent transporting people in custody. “Waitematā is a vast district geographically, and it’s important my staff aren’t unnecessarily taken off the road for lengthy periods of time,” he said. “The new District Custody Unit will mean reduced travel times for staff working as far north as Wellsford, down to Devonport.”The newly upgraded facility will work alongside the existing custody unit in Henderson. Police manage more than 120,000 people in custody each year nationwide, and Commissioner Chambers stressed the role of advanced technology in improving safety and efficiency. High-quality CCTV and intercom systems will help custody staff monitor detainees, while an advanced audio-visual link suite will enable remote court appearances, reducing transport costs and logistical challenges.Superintendent Hassan welcomed the reopening, saying the facility is a crucial part of adapting to the region’s increasing population. “We are continuing to find ways to adapt to the growing demand and population across communities in Waitematā,” she said. The unit will be staffed by sworn police officers alongside additional Authorised Officers recruited specifically for custody management.The North Shore Custody Unit was previously decommissioned in 2013 but has been utilised on occasion to support police operations, including during the pandemic. Its reopening marks a significant step in ensuring faster processing times for arrests and allowing frontline officers to return to their duties more quickly.Have a story to share from your neighbourhood? We’d love to hear from you! Send your news tips and stories to [email protected]

The last week of summer is delivering exactly what Hibiscus Coast locals hope for—warm, settled days, light winds, and mostly clear skies, according to MetService. A strong high-pressure system is keeping conditions stable across New Zealand, ensuring that summer ends on a high note.However, Coasties should expect a few showers on Friday and Saturday, though these won’t dampen the overall sunny outlook. Daytime temperatures will remain between 25°C and 27°C, with mild overnight lows of 17°C to 18°C. These conditions are mirrored across much of the country, with only the far south expected to see a change later in the week when a rainband moves in.While the weather remains settled locally, the tropics are seeing a surge in activity. Two tropical cyclones, Alfred in the Coral Sea and Rae north of Fiji, were named on Sunday evening. Another system, currently developing between Vanuatu and Fiji, has the potential to form into a third cyclone in the coming days. Despite this increased activity, MetService assures that none of these systems pose a direct threat to New Zealand at this stage.MetService’s tropical cyclone forecasters will continue monitoring the situation closely, ensuring that any potential developments are tracked well in advance. For now, Coasties can make the most of the final week of summer with beach days, barbecues, and outdoor adventures under classic Kiwi summer skies.Have a story to share from your neighbourhood? We’d love to hear from you! Send your news tips and stories to [email protected]

Aucklanders have saved a staggering 905 million litres of water this summer, thanks to their response to the ‘Easy does it’ campaign. However, the region’s water storage dams have now dipped below 70% capacity for the first time since August 2021, as dry conditions persist.Watercare’s chief operations officer, Mark Bourne, confirmed that the Waitākere and Hūnua ranges—home to the city’s 10 key dams—have experienced below-average rainfall. The Hūnua catchments, which supply two-thirds of Auckland’s water, have received 20% less rainfall than usual, while the Waitākere catchments have had only half their normal levels.A recent long-range forecast signals continued dry conditions throughout March, with a return to normal levels expected in April and May. Winter could be wetter than usual, but current dam storage sits at 68.9%, significantly below the historical average of 79.4% for this time of year.In response, Watercare has extended its water efficiency campaign and is actively managing supply.“We’ve increased production at our Waikato water treatment plants and brought the Pukekohe Water Treatment Plant back online after flood damage,” Bourne said.These measures are helping to slow the decline in dam levels.Maintenance teams have also been working hard to reduce leaks.Since December, 14,838 leaks have been reported, with 14,777 already fixed—leaving just 166 outstanding. Meanwhile, Aucklanders have kept their water usage low, with a seven-day rolling average of 479 million litres per day, a figure Bourne described as “excellent for this time of year.”While modelling suggests it’s unlikely that water restrictions will be required this year, Watercare is urging continued vigilance. Aucklanders can track dam levels on the Watercare website, where data updates hourly.For those looking to do more, Bourne suggests one simple action: shortening showers by one minute. “If everyone did that, we’d save around 20 million litres of water a day.”With a long, dry March ahead, Aucklanders are being encouraged to keep up their wise water habits and continue making a difference.Have a story to share from your neighbourhood? We’d love to hear from you! Send your news tips and stories to [email protected]

Every Tuesday, we spotlight a few standout job openings in our community.Check out this week’s picks, and be sure to share with anyone who might be looking!Mitre 10 Position: Front Line Services (Fixed Term)Location: WhangaparaoaFixed-term, part-time role (34 hours/week) covering parental leave (March 2025 – May 2026)Competitive hourly rate + staff discounts at Mitre 10 and Columbus CaféView full listing & applyNoel LeemingPosition: Customer Service Representative (Fixed Term)Location: SilverdaleFull-time, fixed-term role until 31 October 2025 (Monday–Friday)Customer-facing role assisting with payments, repairs, inquiries & admin tasksView full listing & applyThe DoctorsPosition: General Practitioner (GP)Location: WhangaparaoaPermanent position with 6–8 sessions per week (no on-call)April 2025 start in a supportive, collaborative team near the beachView full listing & applyCareer Tip of the weekResearch the company before an interview to understand its values, culture, and recent achievements. This helps you tailor your responses and demonstrate genuine enthusiasm for the role.That’s it for this week’s local job roundup.Looking for more opportunities? Browse all local job listings on our jobs page.Keep an eye out next Tuesday for more great opportunities, and don’t forget to share with friends and neighbours who might be interested!Have a job to post? Submit your listing here.

Senior drivers on the Hibiscus Coast are being reminded by NZTA that they can renew their driver licence up to six months before it expires, allowing ample time to complete the renewal process without added stress.Karina Morrow, NZTA’s Senior Manager Safer Drivers, emphasised the importance of ensuring a smooth renewal experience. “We understand how important it is for senior drivers to have enough time to get a medical certificate and, if required by their health practitioner, book a practical driving test. To ensure this process runs as smoothly as possible, we want to make senior drivers aware that they can start the renewal process early. And remember that renewing early won’t affect the new driver licence expiry date.”Senior drivers are required to renew their licence at age 75, again at 80, and every two years after that. A medical certificate is needed for each renewal and can be issued by doctors, registered nurses, and nurse practitioners working within their scope of practice.What Senior Drivers Need to DoTo renew their licence, senior drivers must visit a driver licensing agent in person. They will need:A completed Application for issue or renewal of driver licence (DL1) formA medical certificate issued within the last 60 daysTheir current photo driver licence or another acceptable form of identificationPayment of the $21.50 renewal fee (EFTPOS, credit card, or cash)In some cases, a doctor may also require a practical driving test. Two types of assessments may be needed:On-road safety test: Evaluates whether the driver meets the minimum safe driving standard.Occupational therapist driving assessment: Determines competency in various driving situations, particularly when a medical condition such as a stroke, Parkinson’s disease, or multiple sclerosis may impact driving ability.For more details on senior licence renewals, visit the NZTA website.Have a story to share from your neighbourhood? We’d love to hear from you! Send your news tips and stories to [email protected]

Retail activity in New Zealand saw a moderate increase in the December 2024 quarter, with total retail sales volumes rising by 0.9% compared with the September 2024 quarter, according to Stats NZ.The figures, adjusted for price inflation and seasonal effects, indicate steady growth across most retail sectors.“In the December quarter, we saw a modest increase in retail activity, with growth across most industries,” said Michael Heslop, economic indicators spokesperson at Stats NZ.Out of 15 retail industries, 10 experienced higher sales volumes during the quarter.The data reflects a rebound in consumer spending, even as economic conditions remain challenging for many households.Growth Across All RegionsRetail sales increased in all 16 regions of New Zealand in the December 2024 quarter compared with the previous quarter, following seasonal adjustments.The South Island recorded a significant 3.5% increase in sales value, rising by $251 million to reach $7.4 billion.Meanwhile, the North Island experienced a 1.3% increase, adding $292 million to total $22.4 billion.Although these figures are not adjusted for price effects, they highlight broad-based spending growth across urban and regional areas.Local Impact on Hibiscus CoastFor businesses on the Hibiscus Coast, the retail uptick suggests improved consumer confidence heading into 2025.While national trends indicate modest gains, local retailers will be looking to sustain momentum amid rising costs and changing shopping habits.Have a story to share from your neighbourhood? We’d love to hear from you! Send your news tips and stories to [email protected]

North Boxing Academy Inc, a new community-focused boxing gym, officially opens its doors today at 3:45 pm.Located at 4 Hibiscus Coast Highway, Silverdale, the gym is dedicated to creating a fun and welcoming environment for the entire community.Head Coach Ben Williams leads the academy, which emphasises the benefits of hard work and discipline through boxing, particularly for youth development.The gym offers a range of training sessions, including early morning classes from 6:00 am to 7:00 am on weekdays.Regular opening hours are from 3:45 pm to 7:30 pm on weekdays.Training sessions are structured by age group:Kids (10-13 years): 3:45 pm – 4:30 pmYouth (14-17 years): 4:30 pm – 5:30 pmMembership fees start at $30 per week for kids.For more details, visit the North Boxing Academy websiteHave a story to share from your neighbourhood? We’d love to hear from you! Send your news tips and stories to [email protected]

Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg’s call for workplaces to “man up” overlooks a key driver of economic growth—women entrepreneurs. Darsel Keane, Director of the Centre for Innovation and Entrepreneurship at the University of Auckland, and Rod McNaughton, Director of Innovation and Professional Development, argue that increasing female participation in startups could significantly boost workforce engagement and productivity.Despite progress, women remain underrepresented as startup founders, particularly in high-growth industries. According to Startup Genome, women make up just 26 percent of startup founders in New Zealand—one of the highest rates globally—yet only about 7 percent of local venture capital funding goes to female-led businesses.The University GapKeane and McNaughton’s research, based on the 2021 Global University Entrepreneurial Spirit Students’ Survey (GUESSS), found that early undergraduate interest in starting a business is relatively balanced between genders—8 percent of men and 6 percent of women at the University of Auckland expressed entrepreneurial ambitions. However, by the time students consider their five-year career paths, the gap widens: 28 percent of men versus just 18 percent of women aspire to run their own businesses. Both figures still lag behind global averages (37 percent for men, 30 percent for women).A key factor is the underrepresentation of women in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) and business disciplines, where students are more likely to be exposed to entrepreneurial concepts, role models, and industry networks. Without this exposure, many women miss out on vital opportunities that could lead to business creation.Steps Toward ChangeProgress is being made. Female participation in the University of Auckland’s Centre for Innovation and Entrepreneurship (CIE) has grown from 23 percent in 2015 to 44 percent in 2024. Last year, two of the centre’s alumni were named Cartier Women’s Initiative Fellows, a global recognition of female entrepreneurs making a social and economic impact.However, Keane and McNaughton highlight that women still enrol in entrepreneurship courses and extracurricular activities at lower rates than men, limiting their early business exposure. To close the gap, they recommend:Embedding entrepreneurship across all disciplines—not just STEM and business, but also health, law, and social sciences.Increasing access to role models and mentors, ensuring female students see successful women entrepreneurs in action.Making startup incubators, pitch competitions, and funding programmes more accessible to women, including creating dedicated funding streams for female-led ventures.Reframing entrepreneurship to highlight social impact, as many women are drawn to careers that address sustainability, healthcare, and community development.By fostering a more inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystem, universities have the power to break down barriers and help unlock the economic potential of female founders. If New Zealand wants to boost innovation and productivity, it must ensure more women have the support and opportunities to launch their own businesses.Have a story to share from your neighbourhood? We’d love to hear from you! Send your news tips and stories to [email protected]

Auckland’s economy faced a downturn in 2024, with key indicators showing a contraction driven by high interest rates and household debt pressures, according to the Auckland Council Chief Economist Unit’s latest Economic Quarterly report.However, easing monetary conditions and policy adjustments are expected to support a gradual recovery in 2025.The report highlights a 4.1% decline in real card spending in Auckland—more than double the national average drop of 1.9%—reflecting subdued consumer confidence.Additionally, employment in the region fell by 2.0%, with 20,000 job losses recorded across multiple sectors.The effects of high borrowing costs were evident throughout the economy, though recent Official Cash Rate (OCR) cuts from 4.25% to 3.75% signal a shift toward recovery.Housing Affordability and Population TrendsAuckland’s population grew in 2024, driven primarily by international migration.However, the city saw a net loss of approximately 10,000 residents to other regions, continuing a trend linked to housing affordability pressures.The median house price-to-income ratio stood at 7.5, significantly higher than the national figure of 6.4, making it challenging for many residents—especially skilled workers—to remain in the city.To combat these affordability issues, policy experts are calling for flexible land-use reforms to increase housing supply near employment hubs and transport infrastructure.The report also underscores the long-term importance of infrastructure pricing reforms to ensure sustainable urban development.Shifts in Productivity and Work PatternsAuckland remains the most productive region in New Zealand, but its GDP premium relative to the rest of the country is lagging behind global city benchmarks.Improving productivity remains a key focus for long-term economic growth.One notable shift is the rising prevalence of remote work.In 2023, 17.9% of Aucklanders worked remotely, compared to just 8.7% in 2018.While this trend has reduced commuting costs for workers, it has created challenges for businesses reliant on in-person customers, particularly in retail and hospitality sectors.Economic Outlook and Policy PrioritiesWith inflation easing to 2.2% CPI, businesses are showing cautious optimism, with 9% of firms expecting improved conditions in 2025.Lower interest rates are expected to stimulate demand, particularly in the housing sector.Residential construction is projected to rebound, with building consents forecasted to increase to 16,000–17,000 homes in 2025, up from 13,900 in 2024.Historical trends suggest a strong correlation between declining mortgage rates and increased construction activity, further supporting the outlook for economic recovery.The report recommends focusing on productivity-enhancing investments, land-use flexibility, and infrastructure pricing to address long-term structural challenges rather than reacting to short-term economic fluctuations.A Path to RecoveryAuckland’s economy struggled in 2024, with key challenges in employment, housing affordability, and productivity.However, with interest rate cuts, policy adjustments, and an improving business climate, 2025 offers a pathway to gradual economic recovery.Have a story to share from your neighbourhood? We’d love to hear from you! Send your news tips and stories to [email protected]

Schools across Northland, Bay of Plenty, and Auckland face teacher shortages in 2025, with 750 primary and 500 secondary teachers needed, according to the Ministry of Education’s latest Teacher Demand and Supply Report.While primary schools may see a surplus by 2027, secondary schools will remain understaffed, particularly in Taranaki (-6%), Otago (-4%), and Auckland (-4%). The report, delayed due to last year’s data error, includes a regional breakdown for the first time, giving a clearer picture of where the biggest challenges lie.Anna Welanyk, Deputy Secretary of the Education Workforce, said local insights will help address supply issues:“The regional breakdown improves our understanding of supply and demand differences, allowing better tailoring of initiatives. It also supports discussions on teacher supply and the challenges faced at the local level with schools.”For families on the Hibiscus Coast, these shortages could lead to larger class sizes, heavier workloads for teachers, and difficulty filling specialist roles. Student numbers are rising faster than expected, with 1,000 more primary teachers and 400 secondary teachers needed in 2025 to keep up.Despite strong retention rates (88-90%), more educators are needed to replace retiring teachers and fill growing gaps. To help, the Ministry is rolling out recruitment and retention initiatives, including:School Onsite Training Programme – Hands-on training for future teachers, with 147 places taken up in 2024.Voluntary Bonding Scheme – Up to $17,500 for teachers who commit to high-need schools.Overseas Recruitment Support – Grants and finder's fees for international hires.BeTTER Jobs Programme – Matching new and returning teachers with schools in need.Fast-Track Training for Teacher Aides – Helping aides transition into teaching roles.What’s Next?With up to 1,000 primary and 1,200 secondary teachers expected to enter the workforce in 2025, the Ministry hopes to ease the pressure on schools. However, ongoing shortages in key regions remain a concern.Parents and communities can stay informed and support local schools as they navigate these challenges. Those interested in teaching or returning to the profession can explore training and incentive programmes through the Ministry of Education’s website.“These initiatives are part of a targeted plan to build a strong pipeline of both domestically trained and overseas recruited teachers,” said Welanyk.Have a story to share from your neighbourhood? We’d love to hear from you! Send your news tips and stories to [email protected]

Motorists from the Hibiscus Coast should prepare for a series of overnight motorway closures as part of essential maintenance and improvement work on State Highways 1 and 18. The New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) has advised that closures will begin at 9 pm each evening and finish by 5 am, with traffic management potentially in place earlier for the mainline. Any work delayed by bad weather will be rescheduled to the next available night before Friday, 28 February 2025.The Northern Motorway (SH1) will experience multiple closures:Southbound: Lanes between Tristram Avenue off-ramp and Northcote Road on-ramp will be closed from 23-27 February (10 pm – 5 am), along with the Tristram Avenue southbound on-ramp during the same period.Northbound: Lanes between Northcote Road off-ramp and Tristram Avenue on-ramp will be closed on 25-26 February (10 pm – 5 am), with the Northcote Road northbound on-ramp affected slightly earlier from 9:30 pm – 5 am.Additional northbound closures include the Stafford Road off-ramp and Curran Street on-ramp, both from 23-27 February.The Shelly Beach Road southbound off-ramp will be closed for an extended period from 9 pm on 22 February to 12 pm on 23 February.The Upper Harbour Motorway (SH18) will also see disruptions:Eastbound lanes between Tauhinu Road off-ramp and Albany Highway on-ramp will be closed on 23 and 27 February.The Greenhithe Road eastbound on-ramp will also be closed on these dates.NZTA advises motorists to follow signposted detours and allow extra time for travel during these periods. These closures form part of the agency’s regular maintenance programme to ensure safe and efficient roads.Have a story to share from your neighbourhood? We’d love to hear from you! Send your news tips and stories to [email protected]

Watercare has successfully completed the cementing of the foundations and plinths for the Wellsford Wastewater Treatment Plant upgrades, marking a key milestone in the plant’s $38.3 million overhaul.The reinforced concrete plinths, installed atop 99,000 litres of concrete poured the previous week, will support critical tanks designed to improve the facility’s capacity and efficiency.The upgrades are set to meet stricter resource consent requirements and help the plant better manage peak flows during wet weather.Six of the nine plinths will hold Membrane-Aerated Biofilm Reactor (MABR) tanks, two aerobic tanks, and two anoxic tanks, while the remaining three plinths will allow for future growth with the potential for additional tanks.Jonathan Piggot, Head of Wastewater at Watercare, highlights the importance of the new MABR and Membrane Bioreactor (MBR) technologies, which will enable the plant to discharge cleaner water into the Hōteo River and its surrounding environment.“The MBR and MABR technology are very efficient in removing organic matter and nutrients. Microorganisms work to break down pollutants, and any pathogens that pass through the membranes are treated with ultraviolet disinfection,” he said.Capital Delivery General Manager Suzanne Lucas explained that the modular design of the upgraded plant not only saves on time and costs but also allows for future flexibility as the area grows.“We can incorporate existing infrastructure into the new build, ensuring we have the ability to scale up and update technology as needed,” she said.In the coming months, crews will install the MABR tanks and other components, including a new inlet pump station, dosing area, control building, and outfall pipeline.Coasties should note, traffic management will remain in place along State Highway 1, around 2.5 kilometres outside of Wellsford, to accommodate construction vehicles.Have a story to share from your neighbourhood? We’d love to hear from you! Send your news tips and stories to [email protected]