New Zealand's pension system has been ranked 17th out of 52 in a new global comparison, with a warning that although the country faces questions about covering the cost, it is not the only one.The Mercer Global Pension Index ranked New Zealand's superannuation and KiwiSaver combined a B for adequacy - which reflects how much income people receive in retirement; a B for sustainability - which covers how affordable the scheme is; and an A for integrity - how much the scheme can be trusted.It said the country could lift the score by increasing the level, coverage and tax efficiency of KiwiSaver contributions, as well as raising the age of NZ Super, increasing New Zealand households' savings and introducing a credit or contribution for people who are off work caring for young children."New Zealand is one of the few countries that does not give tax concessions for preparing for retirement," report author and Mercer partner Tim Jenkins said.It said New Zealand should also focus on retirement income as the primary purpose of KiwiSaver and improve the decumulation options available to draw down the money when people retire.The countries with the top-rated systems were the Netherlands, Iceland, Denmark, Singapore and Israel.While there have been questions about whether NZ Super was sustainable, Jenkins said it was not alone in that. Other countries had even more urgent problems to fix.Austria, Brazil and Italy all scored an E for sustainability for their schemes. France and Germany had an A for adequacy but a D for sustainability.Jenkins said New Zealand had improved on every measure in the latest index update, but other countries had increased more quickly.Sustainability had improved on the basis of economic data published by the IMF that no longer included some of the Covid years.He said New Zealand was in the top third of the countries surveyed - "just" - with a relatively low score for income adequacy.The report looks at how much the average wage earner receives as retirement income. It seeks a benchmark of 70 percent of pre-retirement income."NZ Super is okay," he said. "But KiwiSaver is below average adequacy. It's voluntary with relatively low contribution rates."He said people who were in roles where they were offered a total salary package had less incentive to contribute because they were paying for their employer's contributions, too.Lower-income people and those not in work were also being left behind.Jenkins said thought could be given to decoupling employer and employee contributions to an extent, and introducing a minimum contribution for low-income people."To help them accumulate private savings on top of NZ Super… for people who can't afford to contribute 3.5 percent or 4 percent, they don't get the extra 3.5 percent or 4 percent."He said as people lived longer, thought also needed to be given to how retirement settings responded."If you're retired for 20 years from 65 that's very different from 10 years. Countries around the world are starting the debate about whether state pension ages should increase."He said adequacy and sustainability could be addressed together by looking at KiwiSaver and NZ Super as a package.In Australia it is possible to access super savings before the pension age, which allows people to retire earlier if they need to - such as when they work a manual job."There is mood for change, and the time is right," Jenkins said. "KiwiSaver is 18 years old - when there's a birthday like that it's time to step back and consider what we could do. The world on Tuesday is different to 20 years ago."

Coast women aged 70 to 74 can now book a free breast screening, with the first step of a nationwide age extension now underway.Until now, the free programme covered women aged 45 to 69.Each October for the next three years, eligibility will rise by one year until it reaches 74.That means more Coast mums, aunties and nanas can stay on top of their health with regular mammograms close to home.Health Minister Simeon Brown says the move will help catch more cancers early and save lives.“This expansion means up to 130,000 extra women will be eligible once it’s fully rolled out,” he said.Women’s Minister Nicola Grigg says screening remains the best defence.“Around 3,400 New Zealand women are diagnosed with breast cancer each year. Screening gives women a far better chance of successful treatment,” she said.Health New Zealand is also adding more trained staff, upgrading equipment and opening new mobile screening units, which will make it easier for Coast women to book and attend appointments.If you or someone you love is now eligible, it could be a good time to make that booking and stay well for all the moments that matter most.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

Auckland Council’s first in-house dog desexing clinic is making a real dent in the city’s dog overpopulation problem, completing 475 procedures in under five months.Led by veterinarian Dr Roz Holland, the clinic has desexed 229 male and 246 female dogs free of charge, with another 140 waiting to be seen. Funded through infringement fees from unregistered dog owners, the programme ensures responsible owners aren’t footing the bill.“Everyone involved in dog control and welfare knows the key issue is overpopulation,” Dr Holland says.“Desexing is vital, but cost and transport are barriers for many people. This role appealed to me because it removes those barriers and delivers real impact.”Dr Holland brings international experience from Peru, India, the South Pacific, the US and New Zealand. She says the early results show momentum building. “This programme is targeted, well-planned, and focused on the communities where it’s needed most.”The need is urgent. Auckland Council receives more than 15,000 reports of roaming dogs each year, up 50 percent since 2020, and records over 1,300 dog attacks on people annually.Animal Management Manager Elly Waitoa says the clinic is helping turn the tide. “Roaming dogs and overpopulation have become overwhelming for communities across Auckland. Bringing Roz and the team onboard has given us new tools to respond.”The clinic is part of a wider council strategy that includes:Targeted desexing in high-risk areasTougher action on irresponsible ownersDog registration drivesAwareness campaigns like “For you, your dog and your neighbours.”For families on the Hibiscus Coast, the approach could help reduce roaming dog issues locally while supporting safer, more responsible pet ownership citywide.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

Four people face serious drug and firearm charges after police found methamphetamine ingredients, clan lab equipment, and loaded guns in coordinated raids across Mangawhai Heads, Massey, and Kumeu.Waitematā Police, including the Armed Offenders Squad, carried out the simultaneous searches early Tuesday, 14 October, uncovering a large-scale meth operation.At Mangawhai Heads, officers seized two kilograms of ephedrine along with materials and tools used to manufacture meth.Two people were arrested on site.Information from that scene led detectives to Massey and then to a third location in Kumeu, where they discovered clan lab equipment, a loaded double-barrel shotgun, a loaded Glock, and an unloaded rifle.Several people were detained nearby, with two later charged.Detective Sergeant Ray Fa’aofo said the coordinated effort paid off.“The planning, preparation, and quick actions of staff ensured the success of these warrants. I’m very pleased we intercepted some of the production and supply of illicit drugs entering our community and took firearms off the streets,” he said.Those charged include:• A 41-year-old man (Auckland District Court, 12 December) facing multiple firearms and drug equipment offences.• A 46-year-old man (North Shore District Court, 15 October) charged with manufacturing methamphetamine and related offences.• A 32-year-old man (Waitakere District Court, 15 October) charged with possession of meth for supply.• A 45-year-old woman (North Shore District Court, 15 October) charged with manufacturing methamphetamine.Police urge anyone with information on drug activity to call 111 if urgent, 105 after the fact, or Crime Stoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

For Coasties who’d love to swap the office for the outdoors, a new Department of Conservation cadetship could be just the ticket. The Te Pū Hono programme will train the next generation of rangers through hands-on work protecting New Zealand’s wild places from day one.Applications open 20 October 2025 for the 30-month paid training course, with the first ten cadets starting in January 2026 at DOC’s Renwick Base in Marlborough. Once established, ten new cadets will be recruited each year.Cadets will learn everything from trapping and weed control to maintaining huts, tracks, and backcountry sites. They’ll also take on specialist placements and rugged field trips across the motu that test endurance and teamwork.DOC Monitoring and Insights Director Karl Beckert says the programme is about investing in the future of conservation.“Our economic future is reliant on nature going strong. It’s vital we develop the next generation of conservation workers and set them up well for a long conservation career,” he says.Beckert says cadets will play a key role in tackling issues like habitat loss, climate change, and invasive species.For Coasties passionate about the outdoors, it’s a chance to turn that love for nature into a lifelong career.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

Ōrewa will be at the centre of New Zealand’s largest ShakeOut earthquake drill this Thursday, with more than 730,000 people across the country signed up to take part at 9.30 am.The national drill and tsunami evacuation aims to help communities prepare for natural disasters, with this year’s official event hosted at Ōrewa Beach Primary School. Students and staff will lead the way in practising “Drop, Cover, Hold,” followed by a tsunami walk to their local safe zone.“Emergency preparation starts with all of us. First you, then your family, then your community,” says John Price, Director of Civil Defence Emergency Management at NEMA.Auckland Emergency Management General Manager Adam Maggs says ShakeOut is a simple way for everyone to get ready. “It’s important for people in Auckland to know what to do if an earthquake or tsunami happens, so I encourage all Aucklanders to take part,” he says.Families, schools, and workplaces on the Hibiscus Coast are encouraged to join the drill or walk their local evacuation routes. ShakeOut is self-run, so each group can decide how they take part. From a quick office drill to a full neighbourhood walk.To register and learn more, visit https://getready.govt.nz/involved/shakeoutSeen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

Health authorities are warning that measles cases are spreading again in New Zealand, with two new infections confirmed in Northland this week, bringing the regional total to 12. Experts say the risk of further outbreaks remains high, as overseas travellers continue to bring the virus home.Around 80 percent of New Zealanders are immune, well short of the 95 percent coverage needed to stop the disease from spreading. Measles is among the most contagious viruses in the world, spreading through the air or by touching contaminated surfaces.Across the globe, cases are rising sharply in Australia, South-east Asia, the US, Canada and the UK. Almost all of our previous outbreaks started with unvaccinated travellers returning from overseas, health officials say.Measles can cause serious complications, such as pneumonia, diarrhoea, and brain swelling. One in three people infected will need hospital care, and young children, pregnant people, and those with weakened immune systems are most at risk.Coasties are urged to check their immunisation records to ensure children have received both doses of the MMR vaccine. Anyone travelling overseas should also make sure they’re fully protected before they go.If you suspect measles symptoms, including fever, runny nose, cough, sore eyes, or rash — call your GP, Healthline (0800 611 116), or 111 in an emergency. Early advice helps protect family, friends, and the wider community.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

State Highway 1 over the Brynderwyn Hills will fully close for two four-day “super weekends” next month as crews complete the final stage of the recovery project ahead of the busy summer season.The closures, from 13–16 November and again from 20–23 November, will allow contractors to lay a full-width asphalt surface, reinstate lane markings and passing lanes, and restore the 80km/h speed limit. The road will reopen between the two weekends from 17–19 November.NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi’s Northland System Manager, Steve Matene, says the approach was chosen to finish the job quickly while keeping disruption short. “If we’d used stop/go traffic management, the works would’ve taken up to 14 weeks. With full closures, we can finish in 6–8 days,” he says. Crews will work around the clock, with 75% of the Auckland and Northland paving teams on site.The upgrade marks the final step in restoring the region’s key connection after months of repair. For Hibiscus Coast travellers heading north, it means a smoother, safer route once the works are complete.Northland Inc’s Paul Linton says the improvements will pay off for the whole region. “Strong, reliable roading links with Auckland and the rest of the country are essential for growth. Every visitor, every truck, and every trip contributes to Northland’s economic pulse.”During both closures, three detours will keep Northland open: Cove Road for light vehicles, Paparoa Oakleigh Road for trucks up to 50MAX, and SH12/SH14 for larger freight.Night works on 5–6 November will prepare the surface, with minimal delays expected.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

Auckland’s housing market has led a nationwide slide, with average home values falling 2.5% in the September quarter to $1.19 million, according to the latest QV House Price Index.Nationally, values dropped 1.1% to an average of $900,521, marking a 14% decline from the 2022 peak. Auckland and Wellington have seen the largest corrections, with values now more than 20% below their highs.QV spokesperson Andrea Rush said the market correction from the post-Covid boom is continuing, though recent cuts to the Official Cash Rate may provide some spring relief. “Decreasing home values and lower mortgage rates continue to improve affordability in many areas,” she said.QV valuer Hugh Robson added that buyer interest has lifted slightly across the city. “Whether this translates into a genuine spring uplift in values remains to be seen,” he said. “Overall, conditions continue to favour buyers, with plenty of choice available.”For the Hibiscus Coast, where households are sensitive to mortgage rates and shifting property values, the downward trend is already shaping local buyer behaviour. More Coasties are holding off on upgrades, while investors are returning cautiously as lower mortgage rates improve serviceability.Despite the slide, demand remains strongest for modern, well-maintained homes ready to move into. Multi-unit townhouses continue to dominate new listings, but developments lacking storage, parking or good indoor–outdoor flow are seeing prices trimmed to meet the market.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

New Zealand’s tourism rebound is picking up speed, with international visitor arrivals in August up 7.5% on last year and confidence rising across the sector.Tourism and Hospitality Minister Louise Upston says the lift shows the country is on track to return to pre-pandemic levels. “International tourism, as New Zealand’s second highest export earner, is a key part of our economic recovery,” she says.The latest data from Statistics New Zealand recorded 230,300 overseas visitors in August. Australia accounted for 52%, China 9%, and the United States 5%.“We are now sitting at 88% of December 2019 visitor numbers,” Upston said. “More visitors mean more full tables in restaurants, more hotel bookings, more people visiting our regions and attractions, and more jobs created across the country.”A Tourism Industry Association survey shows 86% of tourism businesses feel confident about the year ahead, up 11% on last year.That confidence is also flowing through to regional destinations like the Hibiscus Coast, where accommodation providers, cafés, and attractions are gearing up for a busy summer as international arrivals pick up.The Government says it will continue to invest in initiatives that boost demand and keep New Zealand high on the list for travellers planning their next holiday.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

Big idea: Inland Revenue allows an interest deduction when borrowed money is used to earn taxable income.If your loans have funded private spending (owner drawings, overdrawn shareholder current accounts), that portion of interest isn’t deductible.The good news: you can often restructure now so future interest becomes deductible.WarningAlways seek professional advice from a Chartered Accountant as there are traps.Step 1: Diagnose the problemList every loan and overdraft and ask: What did these dollars actually pay for?Tag each portion business (stock, wages, equipment, fit-out, premises) or private (drawings, personal bills, historic tidy-ups).Blended facilities are common—split them on paper first.Step 2: Clean up shareholder current accountsAn overdrawn shareholder current account (the shareholder owes the company) screams “private use”.If bank debt is effectively covering that overdraft, interest on that slice is non-deductible. Two fixes:1) Dividend set-offDeclare a fully imputed dividend and apply it to clear the overdrawn balance (legal set-off).From that date, ensure all borrowing funds business purposes only.Example: The company has a $60k overdrawn current account and a $180k term loan.You declare a $60k fully imputed dividend and set it off, eliminating the private receivable.You then split the facility into two sub-accounts: $120k business working capital and $60k capex.Going forward, interest on both is deductible because the funds are clearly tied to income-earning use.2) Shareholder cash injectionThe shareholder repays the debit current account in cash.From then on, bank debt finances only business activity.Again, interest becomes deductible going forward.Guardrails: Pass the Companies Act solvency test, check imputation credits, and brief shareholders on the personal tax impact of dividends.Step 3: Refinance for clear tracingWhere possible, ask the bank for separate sub-accounts: one for working capital, one for each asset purchase.If you refinance an existing business loan at a better rate, interest remains deductible because the underlying use hasn’t changed.Example: Last year you advanced $80k personally to cover payroll and stock (the company owes you—current account in credit).Draw an $80k business term loan and repay the shareholder.This is a refinance of business funding, so interest is deductible.Step 4: On-lend when the bank prefers the individualIf the bank will only lend to you personally, use an on-lend: you borrow, then on-lend to the company at a commercial rate under a simple loan agreement.The company uses the funds for business; its interest is deductible.You return interest income; your personal interest cost broadly offsets it.Example: You borrow $120k at 8.2% and on-lend at 8.5%.The company buys equipment and deducts the 8.5% interest.You return 8.5% interest income and pay 8.2% interest expense—small spread, clean tracing.Records that make IR happy• Board minutes: purpose of each facility and, if relevant, that it replaces prior business funding.• Dividend resolution (for set-off) with solvency statement and imputation disclosure.• On-loan agreement with commercial terms; withhold RWT as required.• Drawdown/repayment log tying dollars to invoices and uses.• Vehicle logbooks or business-use % where relevant.Bottom lineYou can’t re-characterise yesterday’s spend, but with clean splits, proper resolutions and crisp tracing, you can ensure tomorrow’s interest is deductible.At David Hooper Chartered Accountants, we help small businesses restructure debt and maximise tax deductibility. Contact us at [email protected] or call 09 421 1635.

The Auckland University of Technology (AUT) has unveiled a new brand campaign marking 25 years as a university and more than 130 as a place of education.The campaign, launched on Friday, celebrates AUT’s reputation for pairing academic excellence with hands-on, real-world experience.Replacing the ‘Find Your Greatness’ campaign used since 2020, the new positioning ‘Knowledge That Works’ reinforces AUT’s strength as a university where students learn by doing.Vice-Chancellor Professor Damon Salesa said the refreshed focus highlights AUT’s difference in a fast-changing world.“The world needs new ways of thinking and learning that are open, inclusive, and enthusiastically hands-on,” he said.“AUT’s strength is providing students with the real-world experience they need to become future-ready graduates.”More than 90% of AUT’s bachelor graduates complete work experience as part of their degree, a reflection of its strong polytechnic roots.Chief Marketing Officer Jayne Mayerhofler said workshops and testing showed “an appetite for a bolder, more self-confident voice.”The campaign features current students and alumni from diverse backgrounds, photographed with props representing practical, applied learning across AUT’s many disciplines.For many Hibiscus Coast students, AUT’s North Campus offers an accessible path to degrees that blend classroom learning with practical skills and strong industry links across Auckland.The new look will appear on AUT’s digital channels, billboards, buses, and across its North Shore, City, and Manukau campuses, a visible reminder of the university’s focus on real-world knowledge.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

The cost of repair and maintenance of the Auckland Harbour Bridge nearly doubled to $22.4 million in the year to June, as the bridge's original paint coating reaches the end of its designed life, requiring a full re-paint.The bridge officially opened in May 1959, with 'clip-on' lanes added and completed in 1969. Currently, more than 160,000 vehicles cross the bridge daily and 62 full-time staff are employed for work related to the maintenance of the bridge.New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) figures released under the Official Information Act showed that the amount spent on the bridge increased from $12.2m in the 2023/2024 financial year, to $22.4m in the 2024/2025 financial year.NZTA said the increase in spending was due to the Truss Bridge Refurbishment Project, which started in 2024/25.It said the project would see the original paint stripped to the bare steel and the application of a new paint coating."Note that the previous AHB maintenance strategy was to maximise the life of the original coatings by undertaking spot repairs and over-coating as required."We are now at the end of the paint coating's design life, which is why the Truss Bridge Refurbishment Project is required," it said.NZTA said there had been an increase in cost for the design and management of this project, which was usual, when starting a major project.Over the next five years, it expected funding for the bridge would remain at a similar level to the 2024/25 financial year or slightly more, due to the refurbishment project and coating renewals.Over recent years, there had been continued debate over the plan for a second Waitematā Harbour crossing.Prior to the 2023 elections, Labour announced a plan to build two road tunnels and one light rail tunnel across the harbour - estimated to cost up to $45 billion.In March, Minister of Transport Chris Bishop put out appeals for international input on a second harbour crossing.He said he expected to announce a preferred option in mid-2026.In September, Auckland Mayor Wayne Brown revealed his proposal for a second crossing - a bridge stretching from Meola Reef to North Shore's Kauri Point - as a cheaper alternative.

Auckland’s local election turnout hit 28.8 percent by Saturday morning, with more than 68,500 votes cast across the city.Auckland Council’s General Manager of Governance and Engagement, Lou-Ann Ballantyne, says every vote has made a difference as close races tighten before final results this Friday.“As you’ll see from these results, every single vote counts,” she says. “We look forward to confirming elected members for Tāmaki Makaurau once special votes are validated and counted.”While the mayoral race remains unchanged, several local board results shifted overnight. In the Hibiscus and Bays Local Board’s Hibiscus Coast Subdivision, Coast Community candidates Jake Law and Gemma Moffat hold the top two spots with 7,866 and 7,162 votes respectively. Gary Brown of Coast People follows with 6,265 votes, and Leanne Willis also of Coast People rounds out the four available seats with 4,964.In the Rodney Local Board’s Dairy Flat Subdivision, Independent candidate Lisa Whyte leads with 1,234 votes.For Albany Ward, newcomer Victoria Short from Fix Auckland holds a clear lead with 16,188 votes, followed by incumbent John Watson on 15,290. Wayne Walker trails by just 563 votes, keeping the contest alive until final confirmation.Find all Preliminary Results here.Ballantyne thanked all candidates for stepping forward. “Successful or not, I’d like to thank everyone for putting their best foot forward for Tāmaki Makaurau.”Final results are due Friday once all special votes are tallied, confirming the Hibiscus Coast’s representatives for the next term.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

The sound of empty classrooms could echo across the Hibiscus Coast this week, as secondary and area school teachers prepare to walk off the job.Around 21,000 members of the Post Primary Teachers’ Association (PPTA) have voted strongly in favour of strike action after negotiations with the Government stalled.The rolling strikes will see different year levels stay home each day from Tuesday 14 October to Friday 17 October.This will be followed by a full-day national strike on Thursday 23 October, a ban on extracurricular activities on Wednesday 29 October, and a two-hour nationwide strike from 1.15pm to 3.15pm on Wednesday 5 November.PPTA president Chris Abercrombie said teachers are reaching breaking point as workloads grow and support systems lag behind.He said international research shows keeping up with constant change is one of the biggest stress factors for teachers in New Zealand.“The Government’s offer ignores our call for more pastoral staff,” he said.“We need more help for students with health and emotional needs so they can fully engage with learning.”For local families, that means checking school schedules closely over the coming weeks.Each school will confirm which classes are affected on which days.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

New Zealand’s five Super Rugby Pacific clubs, the Blues, Gallagher Chiefs, Hurricanes, Crusaders and Highlanders, are set to benefit from a landmark partnership with digital asset platform Swyftx.The company, which recently acquired New Zealand’s largest crypto exchange Easy Crypto, has signed on as an official partner in a deal marking the country’s first major cryptocurrency sponsorship in rugby union.It follows Swyftx’s multi-year deal with the One NZ Warriors, making it the first crypto exchange globally to sponsor professional teams across both rugby codes.A parallel agreement with Rugby Australia will also see Swyftx become naming rights sponsor for Super Rugby Pacific and Super Rugby Women’s competitions until 2027.Swyftx CEO Jason Titman said the investment was part of a long-term trans-Tasman strategy. “To be the first exchange globally to sponsor teams at this level is a huge milestone. We’re delighted to support rugby’s growth as we approach the 2027 World Cup.”NZ Super Rugby Clubs spokesperson Roger Clark said partnerships like this were vital for the sport’s future.“They’re critical for keeping the game strong, sustainable and accessible to fans.”Swyftx NZ country manager Paul Quickenden said the partnership would provide extensive branding and fan engagement opportunities, from digital campaigns to stadium signage. “Rugby is part of New Zealand’s DNA. This partnership lets us invest directly in the game’s future while helping Kiwis embrace digital innovation.”For Coastie rugby followers, it is a boost that reinforces the strength of New Zealand’s professional game as local clubs and fans look ahead to another exciting season.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

The weather couldn’t have been better on Saturday as locals gathered in Moenui Reserve for the official opening of the Orewa Chatterbox Seat, launched just in time for Mental Health Awareness Week.Chatterbox began in 2019 when founder Emily Paton lost her husband Darryl to suicide. Wanting to help others open up about life’s hardest moments, she designed a space where people could sit, talk and connect. The first seat appeared at Pt Chevalier Beach in 2022, and more have since popped up around Auckland.Unlike a traditional park bench, the Chatterbox Seat is square, encouraging group seating and cross-legged chats that bring people face to face.Coasties visiting Moenui Reserve can now take a moment to pause, reflect, or strike up a friendly conversation. It’s a small but meaningful reminder that talking really can make a difference.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

A new national survey has confirmed what many already believe. New Zealanders are more in love with property than romance.Trade Me Property’s latest survey of 2,500 people found that 13 percent would rather browse homes than have sex, while more than half prefer scrolling real estate listings to swiping on dating apps.Spokesperson Casey Wylde said the findings show just how strong the obsession is. “Our passion for property runs deep, so deep that more than 300 people said it’s more appealing than romance,” she said.Many still enjoy daydreaming about luxury homes, but more are staying realistic. Only 38 percent now look at homes beyond their price range, compared with 59 percent last year.“While it’s fun to imagine winning Lotto and buying a mansion, Kiwis are being more pragmatic this year,” Wylde said. “Most people browse to check sale prices and see what homes are selling for.”The survey also revealed a strong streak of curiosity. About one in three admit to checking out friends’ or neighbours’ homes online, showing that we still love a good property peek.Even on the Hibiscus Coast, locals say browsing from the couch, bed, or even the bathroom has become a daily habit.Lifestyle blocks remain the top dream property at 25 percent, followed by beach houses at 23 percent. Both are firm favourites among Coasties.For many people, this habit goes beyond mere curiosity. Nearly half said property browsing motivates them to work towards owning a home one day.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

A new customer loyalty programme, Cashpoints, is being rolled out from early next year, with the support of multiple national retail brands.Cashpoints founder Ian Sutcliffe said Cashpoints gave retailers their own loyalty programme at an affordable price, while being a part of a network that allowed consumers to collect and spend their Cashpoints at any member retailer.Consumers can use the card at a variety of in-store and online partners, across multiple product categories ranging from frequent purchases through to big ticket items.He said the programme will launch with a number of large national retailers, which would be disclosed at the launch, early next year.Sutcliffe said Cashpoints was a real-time, easy-to use and understand rewards programme, giving retailers all the tools they need to run their own loyalty programme, but without having to worry about building their own system."We take care of it all - cards, point of sale assets, an advanced real-time data platform, cyber security, database functionality and consumer insights. We know what works and have made implementing a loyalty solution easy for retailers," Sutcliffe said."We've made it affordable - it's a monthly licence fee with unlimited transactions and the retailer pays for the rewards only after they've been issued to the customer, with no up-front commitment to issue a minimum amount of rewards."Sutcliffe said the card was also designed for consumers in mind.He said a recent survey showed 80 percent of customers preferred a loyalty programme that involved multiple brands."Consumers want a real time rewards programme that has choice of reward, relevancy of reward, and is super easy to understand."