Hibiscus Coast families may gain fresh insights from a University of Auckland study examining why some young people struggle to attend school regularly.The report, led by researchers including Dr. Georgia Rudd, identifies key factors influencing student motivation: reduced stress, positive relationships, and curriculum relevance to future goals.New Zealand’s school attendance rates have declined more steeply over the past decade compared to Australia and the UK, though absenteeism remains a global issue.Dr. Rudd, a social and community health research fellow, emphasised the complexity of addressing absenteeism and the importance of incorporating student perspectives.“Most young people feel positive about school, value learning and recognise its importance,” she said.The study surveyed approximately 1,000 13-year-olds participating in the Growing Up in New Zealand (GUiNZ) longitudinal study, which tracks 6,846 children born between 2009 and 2010.Respondents highlighted the role of family expectations, peer connections, and teacher relationships in their attendance decisions.One student described the current education system as “outdated, rigid and overly focused on conformity”.Dr Georgia Rudd, one of the report's authors: "Most young people feel positive about school, value learning and recognise its importance." Photo: William CheaDr. Rudd noted that structural changes, such as aligning curricula with career readiness and adjusting daily schedules, could improve engagement.The findings form part of the broader Our Voices project, aiming to inform policies supporting youth wellbeing through data from the Tō Mātou Rerenga - Our Journey app.Funded by the Ministry for Business, Innovation and Employment, the initiative involves multidisciplinary experts analysing themes like school environments and social challenges.Further reports will explore topics including overcoming adversity and navigating adolescence.The full study, School Attendance, Enablers & Barriers, is available on the Our Voices website.Have a News story to share?Contact [email protected]

The Hibiscus Coast and communities across New Zealand can expect a strong focus on economic growth and investment in 2025, according to Prime Minister Christopher Luxon.In his Statement to Parliament today, Mr Luxon outlined the Government’s key economic agenda, emphasising efforts to boost productivity, create job opportunities, and support local businesses.“Just over a year ago this Government was elected by the people of New Zealand with a mandate to change course. Since then, we have made big changes and we are seeing promising signs of success, with inflation dropping and remaining low, interest rates starting to fall, and wages continuing to rise,” Mr Luxon said.According to the Prime Minister, business and consumer confidence are increasing, and mortgage interest rates have fallen for the first time in more than three years. Treasury’s Half-Year Economic and Fiscal Update forecasts GDP growth to reach 2.1 per cent in 2025, reinforcing the Government’s strategy.Mr Luxon stressed the importance of immediate action to sustain and accelerate economic recovery. “We need to act now to strengthen growth and productivity – both in the very near term and over the years to come,” he said.He highlighted specific areas of focus, including reforms to the Resource Management Act (RMA), health and safety laws, and regulations affecting farming and mining. The Fast Track approval process for infrastructure and development projects is also among the measures aimed at reducing bureaucratic delays and encouraging investment.“In 2025, we will take action to end the culture of no – whether that’s through Fast Track, comprehensive RMA reform, rewriting our health and safety laws, enabling more mining, allowing our farmers to grow their businesses with much less red tape, or other changes designed to promote more growth and investment,” Mr Luxon stated.Reflecting on the Government’s first year in office, Mr Luxon noted that difficult decisions had been made to ease cost-of-living pressures and lay the groundwork for economic stability. The focus now, he said, is on ensuring that early signs of recovery translate into long-term benefits for all New Zealanders.“This year we will continue to build on this early progress to make sure these green shoots of recovery grow into lasting improvements that benefit all New Zealanders,” he said.Have a News story to share?Contact [email protected]

Coasties, get ready to welcome a new wave of visitors to our shores.The New Zealand Government has announced changes to visitor visa requirements, allowing tourists to work remotely for overseas employers while holidaying in the country.The move, announced by Economic Growth Minister Nicola Willis, Immigration Minister Erica Stanford, and Tourism Minister Louise Upston, aims to boost tourism and attract “digital nomads” – individuals who combine work with travel.“Tourism is New Zealand’s second-largest export earner, generating revenue of almost $11 billion and creating nearly 200,000 jobs,” Nicola Willis said.“Making the country more attractive to digital nomads will enhance New Zealand’s appeal as a destination.”From today, visitor visas will permit remote work for foreign employers, enabling tourists to extend their stays and contribute to the local economy.However, those planning to work remotely for more than 90 days are advised to consider potential tax implications.Erica Stanford highlighted the shift as a response to modern, flexible work trends.“This is a brand-new market of tourists New Zealand can tap into. We want people to see our country as the ideal place to visit and work while they do it,” she said.Tourism Minister Louise Upston noted the growing global trend of digital nomad visas.“Compared to other kinds of visitors, international remote workers have the potential to spend more time and money in New Zealand, including during the shoulder season,” she said.Economic Growth Minister Nicola Willis, Tourism Minister Louise Upston, and Immigration Minister Erica Stanford.The updated rules apply to all visitor visas, including tourists, family visitors, and partners or guardians on longer-term visas.However, the policy only permits remote work for overseas-based employers.Visitors requiring physical presence in New Zealand, such as sales representatives, performers, or those working for local employers, must still obtain appropriate visas.“This Government is committed to supporting a smarter, efficient, and predictable immigration system to grow our economy,” Erica Stanford added.The changes aim to strengthen local businesses, lift incomes, and create opportunities for New Zealanders, while positioning the country as a top destination for remote workers.Have a News story to share?Contact [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!Wainui Golf Club & Function CentrePosition: Kitchen HandLocation: Silverdale Part-time role (20–25 hours per week) with weekday and possible weekend shifts.Hands-on kitchen experience with opportunities for career growth.View full listing & applyMetlifecarePosition: Receptionist (Part Time)Location: Red Beach2 x receptionists required at Gulf Rise village.Duties include reception and general admin support View full listing & applyThe Hibiscus Coast AppPosition: Local Business Advertising ConsultantLocation: Remote (must be based on the Hibiscus Coast)Flexible part-time schedule; work from home.Make a local impact helping small businesses thrive.View full listing & applySilverdale United Rugby ClubPosition: Cook / Chef / Kitchen ManagerLocation: Silverdale (On-Site)Part-time role (Thu/Fri evenings, Sat 12:30–7:00 PM in season).Manage the kitchen from menu to service, feeding members and supporters.View full listing & applyCareer Tip of the weekWhen answering behavioural questions, use STAR: explain the Situation, your Task, the Action you took, and the Result achieved. This keeps your answers clear, concise, and impactful, helping you stand out in interviews.Looking for more opportunities? Browse all local job listings on our jobs page. That’s it for this week’s local job roundup. 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.

Comfortable retirement for couple in big city needs $1.1 million in savings, provinces $446,000No frills lifestyles $120,000 in big cities, in provinces $252,000Savings needed based on 2023 household spending patternsTime for Generation X and Millennials to plan ahead for retirementAround half a million dollars in savings on top of superannuation should be sufficient for most retirees to have a reasonable standard of living, but those in the big cities may need more than $1 million, according to a new study.The latest Retirement Expenditure Guidelines from Massey University's New Zealand Financial Education and Research Centre show the projected savings needed to live to the age of 90, on top of super payments, has increased.The report shows a two-person household will need $1.14m for a comfortable city retirement, while in the provinces it will cost $446,000.A couple living a simpler life in the city would need $120,000, while a rural retirement would cost $252,000, on top of super payments.The sums, for the year ended June 2024, are based on household spending patterns for various groups compiled by Stats NZ for 2023.The numbers are generally lower than a comparable survey in 2023, which was based on 2019 Stats NZ data, and reflect slowing inflation and changing spending patterns.The impact of inflation varied between 1.8 percent and 3.46 percent on the various household groups driven by higher utility bills, transport and insurance, when the official inflation rate was 3.3 percent.Report author Associate Professor Claire Matthews said some people survived on NZ Super payments alone but most people could not."As a result, it's crucial to recognise that the landscape of retirement planning is always changing. Regularly reassessing your retirement plans to account for external factors is essential."It's wise to carry out regular reassessments of retirement plans, Claire Matthews says. Photo: Supplied/ David WiltshireA comfortable retirement was defined as being able to travel, eating out, and higher discretionary spending, compared to a "no frills" approach to life and spending.Matthews said the slight fall in the lump sums needed on top of superannuation pointed to households cutting back their spending because of inflation, and adjusting their finances to counter a "fear of running out" of savings."Rather than keep buying the same thing and paying current prices they've actually reduced their level of spending so they're not doing as much as they were because they don't have the same level of funds to fully cover the cost of inflation."No sleepwalking to retirementMatthews said Baby Boomers were no longer the focus of retirement planning, and it was Generation X and Millennials who needed to be planning."The focus for retirement planning is undergoing a generational shift, with the first of Generation X now facing retirement in the foreseeable future."While Millennials have more time, the first of that cohort are now around 20 years from reaching age 65, making it an opportune moment for them to begin retirement planning," she said."You can't just sleep walk into retirement, you've got to plan for it."Matthews said people should be getting financial advice on their future savings and diversification of investments, so they were prepared.She supported KiwiSaver being changed to require employers to pay contributions after workers turned 65, raising the minimum contribution rate, and changing rules involving KiwiSaver contributions in total remuneration packages, which disadvantaged lower paid employees.The chief executive of industry group Financial Advice NZ, Nick Hakes, said the report would help financial advisers to improve the quality of their work."The data and insights from the guidelines equip advisers with information on spending patterns and the financial needs of retired New Zealanders, to assist with providing tailored professional advice that addresses longevity risk, optimises savings, and ensures a comfortable retirement."

Coasties curious about the latest in AI technology may have noticed a new name making headlines: DeepSeek AI.Google Trends reveals that DeepSeek AI has been one of the most searched terms in New Zealand.This Chinese artificial intelligence company has been gaining significant attention globally, rivalling industry leaders.DeepSeek's latest AI model, DeepSeek-R1, offers high-performance AI access at a lower cost than its competitors.The company's AI assistant, powered by DeepSeek-V3, has become the most downloaded free app on Apple's App Store in several countries.This rapid rise has disrupted the AI industry and raised questions about the future of AI investments.Locals interested in exploring alternative AI options can visit DeepSeek's AI assistant at https://chat.deepseek.com/ for a lower-cost alternative to ChatGPT.Have a News story to share?Contact [email protected]

As children across the Hibiscus Coast prepare to return to school, police are reminding parents and caregivers to be mindful of their online privacy when sharing back-to-school photos, citing concerns raised in a recent public advisory statement.Many families mark the first day of school with photos posted to social media. However, authorities warn that these images can sometimes reveal personal details that may put children at risk.“While it’s rare for police in New Zealand to receive reports of children being located through social media photos, we know from international cases that it does happen,” a police spokesperson said.Parents are encouraged to review their social media privacy settings and consider what personal details their posts might reveal. Uniform logos, school buildings, street signs, and even location settings on apps can inadvertently disclose sensitive information.To help safeguard children’s privacy, police recommend the following precautions:Avoid posting images with identifiable school logos, street signs, or home addresses.Adjust privacy settings on social media platforms to limit who can view photos.Disable location tracking on apps before posting.Keep children’s full names, ages, and school details private.Report any suspicious online behaviour to authorities.Police acknowledge that sharing milestone moments is an important tradition for many families. However, they urge the community to take simple steps to ensure children’s safety online.For concerns about online safety, reports can be made to New Zealand Police by calling 105 for non-emergencies or 111 in urgent situations. Netsafe also offers support and advice via their toll-free helpline at 0508 NETSAFE (0508 638 723) or online at netsafe.org.nzHave a News story to share?Contact [email protected]

Dozens of vessels are set to take to the water on Monday for the Auckland Anniversary Day Regatta.Throughout the day, racers will compete for one of 60 trophies which are on permanent display at the Maritime Museum, and over $15,000 worth of prize money.Thousands of spectators are also expected to attend the event.It has been running for 185 years, making it New Zealand's oldest sporting event.The regatta starts at 9am with dragon boat races on the Viaduct Harbour.At Westhaven Marina near the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron, tugboat races begin at 10am, followed by classic launch and classic and modern keelboat races.Yachts will race down to Ōrākei and back again until 5pm.There will also be miniature radio-controlled yacht racing from 10am at Westhaven Marina and St Mary's Bay.Centreboard and foiling races will also take place at beaches across the city from 9am.This year's regatta is also the opening event of the Moana Auckland festival, with several on- and off-water events happening from 27 January to 9 March 2025, including the Z World Manu Champs and the Auckland Boat Show.

What you need to knowA tornado swept through the Northland township of Mangawhai about 3am on Sunday morningTwo people were taken to hospital in a serious conditionAt least 50 homes were damagedAround 150 properties on Moir Street and Old Waipu Road remain without power on MondayNorthland MP Grant McCallum is promising the Government will do whatever it can to support the people of Mangawhai.He told Morning Report he is feeding through information to acting Emergency Management and Recovery Minister Simeon Brown while Mark Mitchell is overseas.In regards to the stickered properties, he encouraged owners to contact their insurance provider first thing on Monday morning."Please get in touch with the insurance companies and talk to them before you start ripping into tidying up things, because they might need to come and make assessments and things like that."McCallum said the Kaipara District Council will carry the cost of clearing away debris."In the affected areas, if people put all the rubbish and all the damaged things on their berms outside their houses, the council will coordinate them being picked up and will be at no charge."Photo credit: RNZ / Finn BlackwellIt could take months for storm damage in Mangawhai to be fully repaired after a devastating tornado, Kaipara Civil Defence expects.At least 50 homes were damaged, and trees and about 20 power poles downed, when the storm ripped through the Northland township about 3am on Sunday, leaving roads covered in debris.Multiple houses had roofs torn off and a few homes and a business were destroyed.Nick Berthoud, owner of a house on Old Waipu Road, said he had only lived in it for one year before it was destroyed in the storm."Two years to build, been one year in it and now this," Nick Berthoud told RNZ. "Yeah, a bit devastating.So far, three properties have been yellow stickered - restricting entry - and another has been white-stickered, meaning it's damaged but people can go inside.

Locals, it's that time of the year again – schools on the Hibiscus Coast are gearing up to welcome students back for Term 1 of 2025. To help you prepare, we've compiled key start dates for Orewa College, Whangaparaoa College, and Wentworth College.At Orewa College, students new to the school will start on Wednesday, 29 January, while returning students will begin on Thursday, 30 January.Whangaparaoa College has scheduled its Year 7 & 8 First Day, along with the New Year 8-13 Learner Orientation, for Thursday, 30 January. The entire school will start on Friday, 31 January. Meanwhile, Wentworth College will hold its orientation day on Tuesday, 28 January, with the full school starting on Wednesday, 29 January.Remember to check your school's website for the most up-to-date calendar dates to ensure a smooth start to the new academic year.Have a News story to share?Contact [email protected]

Welcome to The Week That Was—your go-to recap of the most important news, stories, and updates from the Hibiscus Coast community.Auckland Transport Revises Fares And ZonesRead moreNorth Harbour Stadium Seeks New OperatorRead moreHistoric Puhoi Hotel Secures Preservation FundingRead more Study Outlines Auckland’s Infrastructure PatternsRead moreHave Your Say on Auckland’s Dog RulesRead more The Week That Was. Stay ahead of the curve with daily local news updates, tailored for users on-the-go. Download the Hibiscus Coast App today and stay informed anywhere, anytime!Have a News story to share?Contact [email protected]

Day two of the annual Rodders Beach Festival at Orewa Reserve saw large crowds enjoying hot rods, live music, and community festivities under clear skies.The three-day event continued its strong momentum, with car enthusiasts and families gathering along Orewa Boulevard to admire classic vehicles and enjoy live performances by El Camino Band and Pacific Elvis. The festival atmosphere remained lively as attendees explored the venue and participated in activities.Sunday marks the final day of the festival, with a full schedule of events set to cap off the weekend. Gates open at 8 am for the Sunday Ze Build “Show N’ Shine,” featuring an impressive lineup of hot rods parked along the boulevard. Live entertainment will continue throughout the morning, with the Retro Tiny Tots Competition at 9 am and the newly introduced Teenyboppers Competition at 10:30 am.The main prizegiving ceremony is scheduled for noon, followed by the ‘Ze Gold Coast’ Trip Draw at 12:45 pm, sponsored by Ze Build. At 1 pm, the festival’s signature “V8 Rumble” event will see all participating vehicles rev their engines in unison before the Ze Build Grande Parade rolls along the Hibiscus Coast Highway, returning to Orewa Reserve.Afternoon entertainment includes the bar opening at 1:30 pm, along with the Loudest Sounds and Exhaust Competitions at 2 pm. Prizegiving for these contests will take place at 3 pm, followed by a performance from Whiskey in a Jar. The festival will conclude with a mystery trip giveaway at 3:30 pm, with winners required to be present to claim their prize.Local hospitality venues have seen strong business, benefitting from increased foot traffic. With another full day ahead, the festival appears set to close on a high note, reflecting a positive start to 2025 for the Hibiscus Coast.Have a News story to share?Contact [email protected]

Coasties, get ready for some motorway closures that may impact your travel plans. The NZTA has announced a series of closures for motorway improvements, which were delayed due to bad weather.The closures, which start at 9 pm and finish at 5 am, will affect various sections of the Northern Motorway (SH1). Here's a breakdown of the closures:Southbound lanes between Orewa off-ramp and Silverdale on-ramp will be closed on January 27, along with the Orewa southbound on-ramp and Millwater southbound on-ramp.Northbound lanes between Silverdale off-ramp and Orewa on-ramp will also be closed on January 27, along with the Silverdale northbound on-ramp.Additional closures will take place on January 27-30, affecting northbound and southbound lanes between Tristram Avenue off-ramp and Northcote Road on-ramp.Please follow the signposted detours to navigate around the closures. The NZTA apologises for any inconvenience caused and appreciates your patience while these essential improvements are carried out.For more information on the closures and detours, visit the NZ Transport Agency website.Have a News story to share?Contact [email protected]

The Toyota Aqua has once again topped the list of New Zealand’s most stolen vehicles, according to the latest data from AMI.AMI’s annual insurance report recorded nearly 12,000 vehicle theft claims in 2024, including attempted thefts. For the third consecutive year, the Toyota Aqua led with 8% of all stolen vehicle claims, followed by the Toyota Corolla (6%) and the Nissan Tiida (5%).Auckland, Canterbury, Waikato, Wellington, and the Bay of Plenty were identified as the regions with the highest vehicle theft rates.Theft Claims Show First Decline in Four YearsWhile vehicle theft remains a significant concern, AMI Executive General Manager Claims Wayne Tippet noted a shift in trends, with overall stolen vehicle claims decreasing for the first time in four years. Claims related to ram raids have dropped by 50% compared to 2023."This might suggest that, among unprecedented vehicle theft rates, New Zealanders have put security measures and practices in place and are being more mindful about where they park their cars," Tippet said.Despite its popularity among car thieves, the Toyota Aqua saw a record number of insurance policies in 2024, reflecting its continued appeal as a reliable hybrid hatchback.Toyota Dominates the ListAMI’s top 10 most stolen vehicles list highlights the strong presence of the Toyota brand in New Zealand, with five models ranking within the top nine. The Toyota Hilux, in particular, climbed four spots, indicating its rising value and demand for parts.Recovery and Security ConcernsAccording to AMI, 30% of stolen vehicles were not recovered in 2024. Of those that were found, 52% were deemed repairable."Every week, we repair recovered stolen vehicles at our AMI MotorHubs around the country," Tippet said. "Common repairs include broken glass, damaged ignition systems, dash panels, and external dents and scrapes."He also warned that thefts are not limited to parked vehicles."Unfortunately, we have seen claims resulting from carjackings at low-speed areas such as intersections, traffic lights, or car parks. We should always lock our car doors when driving and consider keeping the windows up."New Zealand’s Top 10 Most Stolen Vehicles in 2024Toyota Aqua (=)Toyota Corolla (+1)Nissan Tiida (-1)Mazda Demio (=)Mazda Atenza (=)Toyota Hilux (+4)Toyota Vitz (=)Subaru Impreza (=)Toyota Mark X (-3)Mazda Axela (+1)Most Stolen Vehicles by RegionAuckland - Toyota AquaCanterbury - Toyota AquaWaikato - Nissan TiidaWellington - Toyota AquaBay of Plenty - Mazda DemioManawatū - Mazda DemioNorthland - Toyota CorollaHawke’s Bay - Mazda DemioOtago - Nissan TiidaSouthland - Nissan TiidaGisborne - Toyota CorollaTaranaki - Toyota CorollaNelson - Mazda DemioTasman - Ford RangerMarlborough - Audi A4West Coast - Nissan TiidaVehicle Security Tips from AMIPark in a garage or a well-lit area whenever possible.Face your vehicle uphill or towards your home to make theft more difficult.Use security measures such as alarms, immobilisers, fuel cut-off switches, and steering wheel locks.Consider installing a GPS tracking device.Never leave the engine running or keys in the car, even for a moment.Lock your doors and keep windows closed while driving, especially in low-speed areas.Avoid leaving valuables in plain sight.Ensure windows and sunroofs are closed when the vehicle is unattended.Have a News story to share?Contact [email protected]

Coasties, Auckland Council is working to deliver its three-yearly property revaluations, with a new timeline set for 2025. This process ensures property valuations used to set rates are fair and consistent.According to Rhonwen Heath, Auckland Council's head of rates, revaluations and data management, "There is much rigour around property valuations, and this year's values will now be delivered in 2025." The Valuer-General's audit and additional work requested on Auckland valuations have led to the revised timeline."As part of the process, the Valuer-General audits property valuations and has requested some additional work on the Auckland valuations prior to public release," says Rhonwen. "This means that Aucklanders' property valuations will now be released in 2025, rather than late 2024."The council assures ratepayers that the extra time taken will help ensure property valuations are accurately and consistently calculated. Revaluation does not change the total amount of rates revenue collected but helps distribute rates fairly between ratepayers.Ensuring a robust and consistent process for determining property valuations is vital to ensure rates are fairly shared between property owners.The council, alongside independent property valuers, are committed to ratepayers receiving values that reflect the market as at 1 May 2024 as accurately as possible."We will confirm the exact timeline for public release in May, once we have confirmation from our valuation partners and the Valuer-General," says Rhonwen. "The additional time we will take to get property valuations right will help Aucklanders have confidence that the values used to determine rates from 1 July 2025 have been accurately and consistently calculated."Have a News story to share?Contact [email protected]

Looking for plans?Explore events happening soon on the Hibiscus Coast and start planning your next activity!Rodders Beach FestivalFri 24 Jan - Sun 26 Jan. 3:00 PM - 8:00 PMOrewa BeachMore detailsWaterworld Thu 23 Jan - Tue 28 Jan. 12:00 PM - 7:00 PMStanmore Bay Beach, 156 Brightside Road, Stanmore BayMore detailsSilverdale Night MarketEvery Sunday 5:00 PM - 11:00 PMLocated in the undercover carpark on The Warehouse side of Silverdale CentreMore detailsWant to see more events?Explore everything happening in our community on the Hibiscus Coast App.Have an event to share?Promote it for Free - click here!

An Auckland food producer and its manager have been fined a total of NZD16,500 after failing to keep records required under their Food Control Plan.Soma & Sons Limited, trading as Tasty Foods, and manager Bhavesh Soma, 34, appeared in the Auckland District Court on 20 January, facing two charges under the Food Act.They were prosecuted by New Zealand Food Safety for not recording temperatures as specified in their plan.Soma & Sons Ltd was fined $13,500, and Mr Soma was fined $3,000.New Zealand Food Safety deputy director general, Vincent Arbuckle, says Soma & Sons is an experienced food producer that is required to record cooling and cooking temperatures for its samosas.“The rules are there for a reason – to protect consumer health and the vast majority of food businesses do the right thing. Good record keeping is an important part of a food safety culture and ensures that if there was a food safety risk to consumers, we’d be able to access records and quickly find the origin. Poor record keeping makes this challenging and increases the risk to people’s health.”Under New Zealand regulations, all food businesses must have a Food Control Plan and keep records for at least four years.In March 2021, a trade-level food recall was undertaken because fully cooked samosas on site were stored at an unsafe temperature, with no cooking and cooling records available.An investigation found Soma & Sons Ltd failed to record temperatures on four occasions between 2020 and 2022.Mr Arbuckle says there is no known case of illness linked to these products.He adds, “While we are not aware of anyone becoming ill from eating these products, the absence of records means there is no assurance that the plan is being followed. New Zealand Food Safety visited Soma & Sons Ltd several times and made it clear what was required, but they deliberately failed to act. It’s very disappointing to see this disregard for consumer health. New Zealand Food Safety will continue to hold such businesses to account to ensure consumers are protected and to demonstrate to the vast majority of food businesses that do the right thing, that the overall system is being monitored.”Have a News story to share?Contact [email protected]

With Auckland Anniversary weekend approaching, holidaymakers are urged to plan their journeys to avoid traffic congestion. The New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) has updated its Holiday Journeys interactive travel planner, offering insights into expected traffic patterns based on previous years.In Auckland and Northland, State Highway 1 (SH1) Puhoi to Wellsford and SH1 Kaipara Flats to Pukerito roundabout are expected to be the busiest routes. To minimise delays, NZTA advises motorists to travel outside peak periods.Best Travel Times and Safety AdviceJacqui Hori-Hoult, NZTA Regional Manager for Maintenance and Operations, suggests adjusting travel times where possible.“Often, leaving a little earlier or later in the day can help avoid the worst of holiday traffic.”While past data offers guidance, road conditions can change due to incidents or weather. NZTA recommends checking the Journey Planner for real-time traffic updates, road closures, and live traffic cameras before heading out.Roadworks and Driving ConditionsTo ease congestion, NZTA pauses major roadworks over long weekends, but motorists should still expect temporary speed limits and minor traffic management at some work sites.“When driving through road work sites, make sure you adhere to temporary speed restrictions and follow the directions of any traffic management signs to ensure everyone stays safe on our roads,” says Hori-Hoult.With increased traffic and many drivers navigating unfamiliar routes, NZTA stresses the importance of safe driving habits.“Drive to the conditions – whether it’s the weather, the road you’re on, the time of day or the volume of traffic. Stick to the speed limit, leave plenty of space, belt up, drive sober, and take plenty of breaks.”Expect Delays, Stay PatientTraffic congestion is expected, so drivers should allow extra time and remain patient on the road.“There will be some holiday congestion and delays, and we all need to factor that into our plans. Make sure you allow plenty of time. You’re on holiday, there’s no need to rush.”For the latest road conditions, visit the NZTA Journey Planner before setting off. Safe travels!Have a News story to share?Contact [email protected]

The national average asking price for a property fell in December, ending a three-month streak of increases.Trade Me Property’s Customer Director Gavin Lloyd stated that the average asking price for a New Zealand property in December was $849,550, down from $854,900 in November.“While the average asking price has dipped, both month-on-month (-0.6%) and year-on-year (-1.7%) the declines are modest and less than what we’ve seen at the same time of year in previous years,” said Mr Lloyd.Auckland remains the most expensive region to purchase property, with the average asking price in December at $1,047,800, down slightly from $1,053,100 in November.Year-on-year prices have fallen $20,000 (-1.9%) in Tāmaki Makaurau.Otago overtook the Bay of Plenty as the second most expensive region.In December, Otago recorded an average asking price of $878,400, compared to $869,800 for the Bay.The price increase in Otago is primarily driven by the Queenstown-Lakes and Wanaka areas, which saw month-on-month growth of 6.3% and 3.7%, respectively.In contrast, much of the rest of the region experienced declines in asking prices.With the exception of Tauranga (+0.9%) and the Western Bay of Plenty (+0.8%), the average asking price fell across the wider Bay of Plenty region between November and December.Opotiki recorded a significant month-to-month decline of nearly 10%.Demand for properties dropped considerably in December, experiencing a 30% decline, the largest decrease of 2024.Wellington (-39%), Christchurch (-35%), and Auckland (-34%) were the most affected areas.“We often see a seasonal impact on demand, particularly in December when Kiwis have other priorities heading into the festive season and summer holiday period. We can expect things to pick back up as buyers return to the market with renewed focus on finding a new property to call home,” Mr Lloyd said.Nationwide, supply fell by 14% month-on-month in December but was up 17% compared to December 2023.Have a News story to share?Contact [email protected]