Your weekend weather at a glance.Coasties, here’s what the next four days have in store:Friday, 21/3 Mainly sunny. Breezy Sou'East winds.High: 24Low: 14Saturday, 22/3Partly cloudy. Light West to Sou'West winds.High: 24Low: 14Sunday, 23/3Partly cloudy. Breezy West to Sou'West windsHigh: 24Low: 14Monday, 24/3Mostly cloudy. Light South to Sou'West winds.High: 24Low: 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!

NZ Transport Agency (NZTA) has confirmed formal speed reviews for 16 additional state highway sections across New Zealand.These roads had been scheduled to automatically revert to their previous higher speed limits by July 2025 under the new Land Transport Rule: Setting of Speed Limits 2024.The reviews will focus on state highways classed as urban connectors.These are areas where speed limits were reduced since 1 January 2020.Under the current rules, many of these were due to revert to previous higher limits unless formally reviewed.Vanessa Browne, NZTA Group General Manager Transport Services, says community feedback has prompted the agency to take a closer look.“Following publication of the list of auto-reversal locations in January this year, NZTA has received feedback on a number of urban connectors where the community is strongly in support of keeping the current lower speed limits,” she said.Formal public consultation will open for six weeks in early April 2025.Locals will be invited to share their views via an online survey.The consultation process will give communities a say before NZTA makes final decisions based on feedback, technical data and cost-benefit analyses.For Coasties curious about our patch—there are no Hibiscus Coast roads on the list this time around.Once consultation wraps up, final decisions on speed limits will be announced later in the year.Got a local story?We’d love to hear it! Send your tips to [email protected]

Auckland Council is bringing its economic development work back in-house.The move will see Tātaki Auckland Unlimited’s (TAU) economic development functions officially transition to Auckland Council by 30 June 2025.The decision follows structural reforms announced late last year by Auckland Council’s Governing Body as part of the Annual Plan 2025/2026 process.Mayor Wayne Brown, councillors, and Auckland Council Chief Executive Phil Wilson have all emphasised that there will be no cuts to investment or service levels as a result of the change.For Coasties, this means Auckland Council is aiming for a more joined-up approach to economic development, which could help improve regional productivity and better support local businesses across the region—including those on the Hibiscus Coast.Auckland Council will take over strategy, planning, and policy-making responsibilities for economic development, placing them under the direct oversight of elected members.The goal is to ensure more coordinated and prioritised investment decisions that benefit the region as a whole.TAU and Auckland Council are working together to ensure a smooth transition.TAU will continue its core role of delivering major events and destination marketing for Auckland.It will also remain home to many of the region’s popular arts, cultural, conservation, and heritage attractions.Got a local story?We’d love to hear it! Send your tips to [email protected]

Tourism New Zealand has launched a world-first initiative: a fully playable New Zealand experience in Minecraft. Released ahead of A Minecraft Movie, the project offers millions of Minecraft fans the chance to explore iconic Kiwi destinations from their screens—and then plan real-life visits.The collaboration, announced this week, involves Tourism New Zealand, Warner Bros., Mojang Studios (the creators of Minecraft), the New Zealand tourism industry, and eleven Māori groups. It’s the first time a real-world country has been brought to life in Minecraft as an interactive travel destination.“This innovative approach to destination marketing offers millions of Minecraft fans the unique opportunity to virtually explore a range of iconic New Zealand locations,” says Tourism New Zealand Chief Executive René de Monchy. “Players can then bring their adventures to life by planning and booking their next holiday to New Zealand.”The downloadable content (DLC), titled Aotearoa New Zealand, is available for free through the Minecraft Marketplace. It features six locations: Waitomo Caves, Te Puia Village in Rotorua, Kāpiti Island, Abel Tasman, Tekapō/Takapō, and Patea/Doubtful Sound.Players can paddle a waka, stargaze, and learn about Tiaki—the initiative encouraging travellers to care for New Zealand.Tourism New Zealand estimates the activity could generate NZD 50 million in visitor spending this year, alongside an equivalent NZD 50 million in media exposure. Minecraft’s global audience—70 million of whom are considering visiting New Zealand—makes this a significant opportunity for the country’s tourism sector.The game was developed by Piki Studios, an award-winning Māori game design studio. Chief Business Operator Whetu Paitai says the team worked closely with Mojang and mana whenua to ensure cultural stories and places were represented accurately and respectfully. “Developing the first ever Minecraft game for a destination, especially a place as close to my heart as New Zealand, feels immensely rewarding,” Paitai says.Players begin their adventure at a marae, welcomed with a mihi whakatau into a central wharenui. The experience seamlessly blends gaming, technology, and Māori culture, offering a preview of the real-life locations and experiences awaiting visitors.Tourism New Zealand will promote the DLC in international markets through travel agents, consumer activations, and bespoke Minecraft itineraries, coinciding with the release of A Minecraft Movie in April.For Coasties with children who love Minecraft—or those dreaming of a future trip—it’s an exciting reminder of why New Zealand is such a special place to explore.You can learn more here.Got a local story?We’d love to hear it! Send your tips to [email protected]

Two men have been arrested after a burglary in Birkenhead ended with a dramatic early-morning Police operation on Hibiscus Coast Highway.The pair had allegedly broken into a retail store on Mokoia Road, Birkenhead, around 3:30, before heading north.Just after 4:00, a Police patrol noticed their vehicle travelling through Ōrewa.According to Inspector Mike Rickards from Waitematā North Police, the vehicle’s headlights were switched off as soon as the pair spotted the patrol car.“Ironically, this attracted our staff’s attention even further,” he says.The vehicle fled but wasn’t pursued directly.Instead, traffic cameras tracked it as it made its way towards Pūhoi.With the Police Eagle helicopter already in the area and road spikes successfully deployed on Fowler Access Road, the vehicle was brought to a stop.Both men then ran into nearby bushland, but Eagle directed officers on the ground to their location, leading to their arrest.Inside the vehicle was a range of new equipment suspected to be stolen.North Shore Police have since confirmed the Birkenhead store had been burgled just half an hour earlier.“The Tactical Crime Unit has now charged them with burglary and are in the fortunate position of being able to return the stolen property,” says Inspector Rickards.The two men, aged 35 and 40, are due to appear in the North Shore District Court.For Coasties, it’s a reminder that our local Police teams are always switched on—working together to keep our community safe.Got a local story?We’d love to hear it! Send your tips to [email protected]

Party Kingdom, a much-loved children’s party venue and school care provider in Stanmore Bay, has officially closed its doors.Owner Jess announced the news on social media on Monday afternoon, sharing that Party Kingdom had entered liquidation and receivership. The decision marks the end of an eight-year journey providing party experiences, Before & After School Care, and Holiday Programmes for local families.Jess, who purchased the business 2.5 years ago, said the closure was heartbreaking but unavoidable.“From day one, there were challenges, and despite giving it everything I had, I simply couldn’t keep going anymore, nor had the funds to carry on,” she wrote.Party Kingdom had become a familiar name for many Coasties. It was known for its colourful indoor playground, fun-filled holiday programmes, and the familiar yellow shuttle bus that transported kids to and from activities. Over the years, hundreds of Coast families celebrated birthdays there or relied on its care services.Jess has expressed deep gratitude to the families who supported Party Kingdom over the years.“You didn’t just book a party or a school holiday programme day, you became part of the Party Kingdom family,” she said.She also reassured families that she had worked to return deposits and invited anyone with concerns to reach out directly.The decision to close was made with care to avoid disrupting families mid-term. Party Kingdom did not reopen its Before & After School Care services in Term 1 of this year.For Jess, the future is still uncertain, but her focus is on her family and navigating the next steps. “Right now, I don’t know what comes next,” she shared. “But please, keep in touch—I’ll still be around lots!”The closure of Party Kingdom marks the end of a much-loved local business on the Hibiscus Coast. Many families will hold fond memories of the laughter, friendships, and fun they found within its walls.Got a local story?We’d love to hear it! Send your tips to [email protected]

Auckland’s central city is set to receive a significant safety upgrade, thanks to $1.3 million in new funding aimed at curbing crime and antisocial behaviour. Announced by Auckland Minister Simeon Brown and Associate Justice Minister Nicole McKee, the initiative will enhance public security in the CBD and key retail areas.In recent years, there’s been a rise in criminal activity across the city centre. The funding, drawn from the Government’s Proceeds of Crime Fund, will be used to install better lighting, increase CCTV coverage, and expand security patrols. The move is designed to make the area safer for locals, visitors, and workers.“This funding will support Business Improvement Districts (BIDs) to deliver initiatives which will help improve safety,” Mr Brown said. “We’re committed to cracking down on lawlessness and antisocial behaviours.”The upgrades come on top of the soon-to-open Federal Street 24/7 police station and an increase in Auckland CBD police officers. Together, these measures are part of a wider government plan to restore law and order.For Coasties who travel into the city for work, shopping or entertainment, the funding aims to provide peace of mind. A safer CBD benefits everyone—whether you’re commuting, catching up with friends, or exploring all the city has to offer.With Auckland’s central city contributing 8 per cent of the country’s GDP in 2023, maintaining public safety is seen as vital to both the regional and national economy.Ms McKee highlighted the importance of repurposing criminal gains for public good.“Converting the assets seized from criminals into funding for initiatives that address crime-related harm and support community wellbeing is a valuable extension of our justice system,” she said.The Proceeds of Crime Fund operates under the Criminal Proceeds (Recovery) Act 2009. Once police seize assets linked to criminal activity and legal matters are settled, the funds are redirected into initiatives that benefit the community.Mr Brown emphasised the broader vision: “Ensuring the safety of all people in our CBD is a top priority. It’s our gateway for international visitors and investors, as well as a cultural and entertainment centre for communities.”For Coasties, these safety improvements are expected to create a more welcoming and secure environment when heading into the city for work or leisure.Got a local story?We’d love to hear it! Send your tips to [email protected]

WorkSafe New Zealand is on the lookout for new health and safety inspectors, with applications now open for its 2025 intake. Up to 60 new recruits will join the frontline team this year, helping make workplaces safer across New Zealand.This is a chance for Coasties keen to start a career in health and safety or take an existing career in a new direction. Full training and development are provided, and WorkSafe is encouraging applications from people with strong communication skills, resilience, and a problem-solving mindset.WorkSafe’s Head of Inspectorate, Rob Pope, says, “We are currently integrating the full range of assessment and investigation work in our inspectorate. This will create a supportive training ground for our incoming inspectors to springboard from.”The regulator has invested an extra NZD 2.7 million annually to expand its inspectorate as part of its new strategy. The focus is on industries with the highest rates of work-related harm—construction, manufacturing, forestry, and agriculture.While previous experience in these sectors is helpful, it’s not essential. Coasties with a passion for making a difference and a drive to help others stay safe at work are encouraged to apply.Inspectors act as WorkSafe’s “eyes and ears” across the country. They play a vital role in ensuring businesses meet their health and safety responsibilities and that Kiwi workers get home safely every day.Got a local story?We’d love to hear it! Send your tips to [email protected]

Trade Me is warning people to be wary of scam texts claiming to offer high-paying jobs via the company.A series of recruitment scam messages have been circulating, often from people claiming to represent Trade Me Jobs.They said that they are looking for part-time assistants to do online work for an hour a day, to be paid anywhere from $488 to $2378 per day.Recipients are told all they need is a phone or computer for the salary-plus-commission job, and can also expect maternity leave and statutory holidays - but applicants need to be at least 25 years old.Head of Trade Me Jobs Nicole Williams said she was aware of the messages."We're also aware of similar messages impersonating recruiters from other companies," Williams said."The majority of these messages are received via iMessage. We continue to liaise with our scam response partners to take any steps available to protect Kiwi from scam messages falsely representing the Trade Me Jobs brand."She said Trade Me members had been warned to be wary of the scam and anyone who received the messages should report and delete them."For anyone who has responded to the sender with personal information it's best to report the incident to CERTNZ and use Own Your Online resources to determine how to respond. Alternatively, seek advice from Police on the best course of action."Scammers operating in this way are generally trying to access people's personal information, for the purposes of identity theft, or will ask "applicants" to pay to proceed with the work allegedly on offer.Recruitment firm Robert Walters warned late last year that there had been an increase recruitment scams, and said scammers could also be posing as its consultants on social media or job boards."Be wary of promises of quick, easy money or high returns with minimal effort. Genuine job offers require commitment and effort," it said.

Fresh Coast Jobs for Fresh Starts! Check out this week’s top picks for local roles—and share with a mate who’s looking!The WarehousePosition: Casual Team MemberLocation: SilverdaleVaried role with customer interaction and opportunities to learnFlexible casual hours, typically between 9:00–17:00View full listing & applyMetlifecarePosition: Handy PersonLocation: Red BeachFull-time role, Monday to Friday, 8:30–17:00General maintenance and upkeep in a growing retirement villageView full listing & applyCareer Tip of the week Practice answering interview questions out loud—not just in your head. Speaking your answers builds confidence, improves delivery, and helps you sound clear and natural when it counts.Help a friend discover their next career move—share these opportunities with your network today!Looking to hire quickly?Connect with local talent by posting your job for just $97 + GST. Post a Job Now.Explore more local job openings on our jobs page.

The New Zealand property market is showing signs of stability, with recent data pointing to an increase in sales and auction activity across the country. According to the Real Estate Institute of New Zealand (REINZ), 6,287 properties sold nationwide in February 2025—a 3.4% increase compared to February 2024.REINZ Acting Chief Executive Rowan Dixon says there’s reason for cautious optimism.“Sales have increased nationally year-on-year, and activity is ramping up as we move out of summer,” Dixon says. “Attendance at open homes remains strong, and auction numbers are comparable to those in February 2024.”National sales rose 59.5% from January to February 2025. Even after adjusting for seasonal trends, sales were up 12% on expectations. Outside Auckland, sales lifted by 5.6% compared to the same time last year. Regional highlights include Taranaki, up 20.6%, and the West Coast, up 22.2%.Despite stronger sales, house prices were steady to slightly softer. The national median price slipped 2.4% year-on-year to NZD 772,000. Excluding Auckland, prices were down 1.4%, sitting at NZD 700,000. However, six regions posted gains, with the West Coast climbing 16.3% and Southland up 9.2%.February Property Market SnapshotSales up 3.4% year-on-yearNational median price: NZD 772,000Listings down 3.6%Auctions: 1,163 sales (18.5%)Listings fell slightly, down 3.6% year-on-year. Inventory, however, rose 13.6%, offering buyers more choice. Dixon notes that this can make house hunters feel less urgency. “If they miss out on one property, plenty of similar options are still available,” he says.Auction activity also picked up. February saw 1,163 properties sold under the hammer, representing 18.5% of all sales—an increase from January. Homes are taking a little longer to sell, with the national median days to sell rising to 54.For Coasties looking to buy or sell, this stable market may offer opportunities. With vendors adjusting expectations and buyers having more choices, the current climate seems balanced.Got a local story?We’d love to hear it! Send your tips to [email protected]

Congestion charging is being called a necessity for Auckland’s future, as new findings reveal the growing cost of traffic gridlock. A white paper, Auckland’s Cost of Congestion, reports that delays on the roads will cost the city NZD 2.6 billion every year by 2026.Infrastructure New Zealand’s Policy Director, Michelle McCormick, says introducing congestion or time-of-use charging is essential if Auckland is to unlock its productivity potential.“Congestion charging can both manage demand on the city’s roading network and help pay for the provision of Auckland’s transport infrastructure into the future,” McCormick explains.Congestion charging is a system that charges drivers for using certain roads during busy times. It’s already being used in cities like London and Singapore to reduce traffic and encourage public transport use. London’s Congestion Charge Zone is one of the largest in the world. Singapore's Electronic Road Pricing system, installed in 1998.The proposal suggests any funds collected from these charges should be reinvested into Auckland’s transport system, including roading and public transport improvements.McCormick highlights that cross-party support exists for the concept, with Infrastructure New Zealand hoping the Government’s Time of Use Charging Bill will gain wide backing as it makes its way through Parliament.But she notes, “A congestion charging scheme will require time to implement with physical infrastructure, background processes and customer-facing systems all needed, so it is important that there is long-term political consensus to see it through.”For Coasties who travel into Auckland regularly for work or leisure, congestion charging could be a game-changer—potentially reducing time stuck in traffic, but also adding an extra cost to the daily commute. The future of this proposal will be one to watch as it moves through Government.Got a local story?We’d love to hear it! Send your tips to [email protected]

Auckland faces a major waste management challenge with the upcoming closure of Redvale Landfill in December 2028.As Auckland’s biggest landfill, Redvale processes around 600,000 tonnes of waste annually.Its closure creates a significant infrastructure gap until the proposed Auckland Regional Landfill (ARL) becomes operational in the mid-2030s.WM New Zealand is actively seeking community feedback on interim solutions to manage the 4 million tonnes of waste expected during this gap period.Independent analyses suggest the best option is rebalancing existing landfills, but public input remains crucial.Community members across the Hibiscus Coast and wider Auckland area are encouraged to attend an upcoming consultation meeting:Dairy Flat Community Hall – 27 March, 6PM-7PMCommunity feedback will directly influence decisions impacting Auckland’s environmental sustainability and waste management strategies.Your voice matters in shaping responsible waste solutions.To participate or learn more, visit: wm.nz/consultationGot a local story?We’d love to hear it! Send your tips to [email protected]

On 17 March each year, many Coasties proudly wear green and gather with friends and family, but have you ever wondered why? St. Patrick’s Day celebrates Ireland's patron saint, St. Patrick, who is credited with bringing Christianity to Ireland in the fifth century.Originally a religious feast day honouring the saint's passing, it has evolved into a joyful global celebration of Irish heritage and culture. Today, communities worldwide, including ours here on the Hibiscus Coast, mark the occasion with vibrant parades, delicious Irish food, music, and perhaps a bit of Irish dancing!While it's a special day for those with Irish roots, St. Patrick's Day has become an inclusive event enjoyed by everyone. Whether you're Irish or just Irish-at-heart, celebrating St. Patrick’s Day is about coming together, appreciating culture, and enjoying good company.So, if you're out today, don't forget your touch of green—it's part of the fun tradition that keeps us connected!Got a local story?We’d love to hear it! Send your tips to [email protected]

With weekday surf lifeguard patrols now finished on the Hibiscus Coast and across New Zealand, Surf Life Saving New Zealand (SLSNZ) is reminding beachgoers to take extra care as they head into the cooler months.Between November and March, volunteer surf lifeguards have patrolled over 90 beaches nationwide, including popular local spots like Orewa and Red Beach. But as summer winds down, so do the lifeguard patrols—weekdays have now ended, and weekend patrols are wrapping up soon too.SLSNZ National Coastal Safety Manager Tom Kearney says with fewer patrols, it's critical that people make smart decisions before heading into the water. "If you have any doubt at all about the sea conditions and your ability to get back to shore safely, please stay on the beach," Tom says.Between July 2023 and June 2024, 42 people lost their lives on our coastlines—each one a tragic reminder of the risks. Men make up 93% of these drownings, with the 35-44 age group the most affected. Rip currents remain the leading danger, contributing to 17% of drownings at surf beaches in the past decade. Even shallow water can be risky if there's a rip current beneath the surface."While many people think they can spot a rip, the reality is different," says Tom. Research shows less than one-third can correctly identify a rip current when shown a photo—and even fewer can pick one out in real life.Tom’s advice for Coasties heading to the beach this autumn:Visit safeswim.org.nz to find lifeguarded beachesSwim between the red and yellow flags if patrols are operatingIf in doubt, stay out“At the end of the day, coming home from a great day on the beach is what really matters,” Tom says. “There’s always another day to swim.”For Hibiscus Coast families, this means keeping a close eye on loved ones and taking the time to assess the conditions. With fewer lifeguards around, a bit of extra caution goes a long way.Got a local story?We’d love to hear it! Send your tips to [email protected]

The Auckland Writers Festival has launched its 2025 programme, promising an ambitious and wide-ranging celebration of books and ideas. Running from 13 to 18 May in the heart of Auckland, this year’s event features more than 170 events and will welcome over 220 writers and thinkers from New Zealand and around the world.For 26 years, this beloved festival has connected readers with storytellers. Festival Director Lyndsey Fineran says 2025’s line-up reflects the team’s passion for creating dynamic and creative experiences for audiences. “I’m so proud to reveal this year’s ambitious, wide-ranging and creative line-up,” she says. Last year’s festival broke attendance records, with more than 85,000 visitors, and book sales increased by 50% on the previous year.The 2025 programme offers something for everyone—literary heavyweights, emerging voices, global commentators, and innovative experiences. Coasties keen on fiction can look forward to appearances from Colm Tóibín, David Nicholls, and Rumaan Alam, while crime enthusiasts won’t want to miss Sir Ian Rankin and Chris Whitaker. Catherine Chidgey will present her highly anticipated novel The Book of Guilt, and this year’s Jann Medlicott Acorn Prize for Fiction winner will make their first appearance just days after the awards ceremony.For those interested in world affairs, The New York Times’ Edward Wong, philosopher A.C. Grayling, and journalist Anna Fifield will tackle global and local issues in panel discussions such as “How Tyrants Fall” and “Te Tiriti: Where to From Here?”.The festival isn’t all serious talk—there are lively events like creating A Waiata in an Hour with Anika Moa, and The Book Factory, where visitors can help publish a book by hand in Aotea Square. Spoken word poet Lemn Sissay will return with his inspiring morning performance Let the Light Pour In. Even kids are covered with Pukapuka Adventures, a free programme offering readings and workshops for young readers, and a special gala night featuring Andy Griffiths and Jessica Townsend.With free events like Kōrero Corner and Streetside, plus ticketed headline sessions, there’s a full week of inspiration ahead. Coasties heading into the city can expect a vibrant literary celebration right on our doorstep.For full event details and tickets, visit the Auckland Writers Festival website.Got a local story?We’d love to hear it! Send your tips to [email protected]

From 20 March 2025, landlords and tenants across New Zealand will see new rules introduced to clarify communication, reinforce smoking bans, and streamline Tenancy Tribunal hearings.If you rent or own a rental property, here’s what’s changing.Electronic communication gets easierLandlords will now be able to serve notices and documents using an electronic address—if tenants have listed one as an address for service in the tenancy agreement. This can be an email address, a mobile phone number (for texts), a fax number, or an instant messaging account.Even after the tenancy ends, landlords can use the provided email address for up to two years when applying for mediation or making a claim to the Tenancy Tribunal.Enforceable smoking bansFrom 20 March 2025, landlords can ban smoking inside a rental property through the tenancy agreement. If tenants breach the rule, the Tenancy Tribunal will be able to enforce the ban.Landlords may also extend a smoking ban to outdoor areas such as garages, balconies, or gardens. However, they will need to ensure the ban doesn’t interfere with a tenant’s right to quiet enjoyment of the property.Fewer in-person Tenancy Tribunal hearingsLandlords may no longer need to attend Tenancy Tribunal hearings in person for many applications. The Tribunal may decide cases based on the application and supporting documents alone.In-person attendance is still required for cases involving terminating a tenancy, a landlord’s right of entry, or boarding room issues.What this means for landlords and tenantsThese changes aim to make things clearer and more convenient for landlords and tenants across the country. Landlords are encouraged to review their tenancy agreements to ensure they reflect the new laws.For Coasties, local property managers are also preparing for the changes and updating agreements to keep everything compliant.For full details, visit tenancy.govt.nzGot a local story?We’d love to hear it! Send your tips to [email protected]

If you’ve ever lived in Birkenhead or Birkdale, you’ll know one thing for sure—Onewa Road can be a bit of a bottleneck.It’s one of Auckland’s busiest routes, and for anyone heading to work in the city, or school, getting through the traffic can test your patience.Now, Auckland Transport (AT) and the Kaipātiki Local Board are working on a plan to make Onewa Road more efficient—and they want to hear what locals in the area think.AT says around 30,000 vehicles travel Onewa Road daily, moving an estimated 100,000 people.It’s already a model of productivity, with a T3 lane helping buses and carpoolers travel faster.But as North Shore Councillor Richard Hills points out, there’s room for improvement.“Residents and businesses rely on Onewa Road every day, and it’s important it stays efficient for our growing community,” Cr Hills says.“The T3 lane moves more than 65% of morning commuters, but we need improvements for all users.”AT’s Road Network Optimisation Manager, Chris Martin, agrees.“By making the road more productive at moving people, we can reduce journey times for everyone,” he says.“We’re looking at bus boosters and queue detection technology to help move things along even faster.”There are also plans for a shared path for pedestrians, cyclists, and e-scooter riders, as well as better technology at pedestrian crossings—especially around the three schools along Onewa Road.Northcote MP Dan Bidois says he’s backing the plans.“This isn’t a rebuild. It’s about making the most of the space we’ve got to ease congestion and make the road safer.”Onewa Road already has two lanes in each direction, with the eastbound T3 lane in place since 1982 and the westbound since 2015.Improvements over recent years—like extra CCTV cameras and more frequent bus services—have helped, including the upgraded 94 bus which now runs every 15 minutes from Beach Haven to Takapuna.This project is part of a wider programme by AT and NZ Transport Agency to use smarter tech and solutions to keep Auckland’s roads moving as the population—and traffic—keep growing.Got a local story?We’d love to hear it! Send your tips to [email protected]

A crash on the Auckland Northern Motorway is causing delays for Coasties heading south today.The incident, involving multiple vehicles, happened just before 11:20 near the Wilks Road Overbridge, close to Dairy Flat.Two people have been moderately injured, according to emergency services.One southbound lane remains blocked, and traffic is building quickly in the area.Motorists are being urged to avoid the route if possible or allow extra time for their journey.NZTA has advised caution for anyone travelling southbound toward Auckland City.The blockage is expected to cause significant delays as emergency services clear the scene.Got a local story?We’d love to hear it! Send your tips to [email protected]