From a campus just an hour south of the Hibiscus Coast, University of Auckland researchers are leading a project that’s turning rooftops white in some of the hottest places on Earth.The REFLECT project, managed by Dr Noah Bunkley from the University’s Centre for Pacific and Global Health, is testing whether reflective “cool roofs” can protect people from dangerous heat in Niue, Mexico, India and Burkina Faso.Temperatures in these countries can soar over 45°C, or sit above 32°C with humidity at 90% — conditions that raise the risk of heat stroke, heart problems and kidney failure.While the Hibiscus Coast doesn’t see those extremes, Auckland summers are getting hotter and heatwaves more common.The idea is simple: a white reflective coating bounces sunlight away, lowering indoor temperatures and reducing the need for air conditioning.It’s cheap, quick to apply and could one day be used here to cut energy bills and keep homes comfortable in summer.In Niue, the Auckland team has painted 200 roofs so far, with another group of households waiting in a control trial.Reflective white roof coatings have been applied to about 100 roofs in Niue.Over the next year, researchers will track physical health, mental wellbeing, and hospital visits to see if cooler homes make a measurable difference.Dr Bunkley says the aim is to build strong evidence to roll the approach out globally.“Cool roofs could be a climate change adaptation tool with huge benefits,” he says.Results are expected early next year — and could inspire similar solutions right here on the Hibiscus Coast.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

You know that moment when you open the fridge and just stare, hoping dinner will magically appear?That was the scene at home the other night.The teenager was already eyeing the shelves and muttering “not that again”.Instead of guessing, a quick stocktake of what was inside went straight into ChatGPT.Seconds later, up popped a recipe for a hearty mince and veggie hash.No fancy extras, no endless chopping — just a quick, one-pan meal.The real surprise? After the first forkful, the teenager paused and said, “This is delicious.”That’s rare praise from someone who’s usually hard to impress at the dinner table.The recipe is now saved in ChatGPT under Hearty Mince and Veggie Hash for those busy nights when inspiration runs low.If you’re staring at your fridge tonight, you might want to try the same.A couple of minutes at the keyboard could save a dinner debate — and maybe win you an unexpected thumbs-up.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

Brisk temperatures and icy cold weather maintains a tight grip on much of the country as the last few weeks of winter hit.But how long is the cold snap set to last?Well the official end to winter is nearing, with September 23 closing in (Springs scientific start date).However, MetService said it was not going to warm-up anytime this week, with cold southeasterlies locking in frosts, snow and icy conditions.They said the combination of high pressure and low-pressure systems were driving the southeasterlies.Low temperatures were forecast for Tuesday, except regions in the far north."This squeeze of systems is funnelling cold air up from the south.Eastern regions will have to wait until midweek for the cloud to clear, but elsewhere it's a run of frosty, sunny winter days," MetService meteorologist Devlin Lynden said.Lynden said the dreary clouds should disappear by Wednesday.Could be time for your next ski trip?MetService said some ski fields - including Canterbury fields - should expect a snow top-up near the end of the week."Cool temperatures and clear skies will make for some primo conditions on the mountains," MetService said."Layer up in the mornings, watch for icy roads, enjoy some crisp, sunny afternoons once the midweek clearance arrives...," MetService meteorologist Devlin Lynden added.The North Island's Desert Road - State Highway 1 - was closed earlier this week because of snow.While Cook Strait passenger ferry sailings were cancelled over the weekend due to strong winds and large swells.

It was still dark when Hibiscus Coast’s Logan Rowell headed south for a day he’d been waiting months for – his first chance to ride his brand-new KTM RC8C.After bad weather cancelled his session at Hampton Downs the week before, this trackday at Manfeild’s Chris Amon Circuit was his only shot before the bike would be stripped down for race prep.The winter chill was biting, just 4°C at the start, and the track was still damp from overnight rain.Rather than risk damage, Logan skipped the first few sessions, waiting for the sun to work its magic.His first cautious laps confirmed it was worth holding back – the cold surface was slippery, making the bike twitch and slide.Photo: Jarod Carruthers PhotographyLater in the morning, with the circuit drier, he began to ease the bike through its paces.Even keeping the revs low to protect the engine, the difference from last season’s machine was huge.The RC8C felt light and precise, with power that made him grin inside his helmet.“The trackday meant a lot to me because it gave me a chance to have some seat time on the new bike and start to get a bit more familiar rather than head straight into racing with no idea how the bike would feel,” Logan said.“It was also super beneficial because I was able to run the bike in earlier, allowing me to focus more on bike setup when we get to Round 1 of the Auckland Motorcycle Club championship.”That first round is up next, with more testing and setup changes planned across two full days on track.Logan says none of this would be possible without KTM New Zealand, Double Six Motorsport, MTF Finance Silverdale, his dad, and all the local support backing his racing dream.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

Grocery supplier costs have been rising faster over the past few months, reflecting higher global costs.The Infometrics-Foodstuffs New Zealand Grocery Supplier Cost Index indicates there was an average 2.2 percent increase in what suppliers charged grocers in July over the year earlier."The pace of supplier cost increases has become slightly faster in the last few months, reflecting a number of key products seeing larger cost increases due to higher global food prices, like for dairy, meat and chocolate products," Infometrics chief executive Brad Olsen said.Other notable cost increases included toilet paper, and paper towel costs, while cauliflower, broccoli and capsicum costs fell.More than 3000 products increased in cost in July over June."This monthly total is down on the sharply higher June month result, but is larger than expected, given timing differences meant we expected a more subdued number of changes in July," Olsen said."The number of chilled food item cost increases was the lowest in about a year, after a few months of elevated cost increases, but butchery cost increases were notably higher in July."Butchery cost rose 2.1 percent on the year earlier, following a 1.2 percent increase in June."Beef and lamb prices rose across the board, particularly for steak, mince and roasts, as global meat prices raise domestic meat slaughter prices," Olsen said, adding fish fillet costs were also higher."Continue strong export demand for protein is still pushing up prices, exacerbated by lower supply domestically at this time of the year."However, he said the cost increases were concentrated to a number of key products and not widespread."These conditions are quite different from a few years ago when there were widespread, persistent and large cost increases across a wide variety of products."Lower input costs in some areas are supporting less intense cost gains, for example for produce, but higher international costs continue to be a dominating influence for general cost trends," he said.

Running a small business in New Zealand often means wearing multiple hats—owner, operator, marketer, problem-solver, and, importantly, team manager.Whether you're leading a crew of five or fifty, effective team management is crucial to your business's success.A highly functioning team doesn’t happen by chance—it’s the result of intentional leadership, clear communication, and strong systems.So, what are the core skills needed to manage a team effectively?1. Clear and Consistent CommunicationIn small businesses, where roles often overlap and resources are tight, clarity is key.Team members need to know what’s expected of them, how their work contributes to the business, and where to go when issues arise. Good team managers foster an open-door policy, encourage feedback, and regularly check in—formally and informally. Tools like shared calendars, group messaging apps (e.g., Slack or Microsoft Teams), and weekly stand-ups can go a long way in maintaining alignment.2. Emotional Intelligence and EmpathyIn New Zealand's close-knit working environments, emotional intelligence (EQ) is not just a buzzword—it’s a management essential. Being able to read the room, understand team dynamics, and respond calmly under pressure can strengthen trust and cohesion. Empathetic leadership—where team members feel heard, respected, and valued—boosts morale and reduces turnover.3. Delegation and TrustMany small business owners struggle with letting go. But the ability to delegate effectively is what separates busy managers from strategic leaders. Trusting your team to take ownership of tasks allows you to focus on growth and planning. Delegation also empowers employees, developing their confidence and skills—key to long-term retention and performance.4. Conflict ResolutionEven in the best teams, conflict can arise. The skill lies in addressing issues early and constructively. Kiwi workplaces often pride themselves on being laid-back, but avoiding tension can lead to resentment and disengagement. Great managers approach conflict with a solutions-first mindset—listening to both sides, identifying the root causes, and finding common ground.5. Goal-Setting and AccountabilityWhether it’s meeting sales targets, improving customer service, or launching a new product, clear goals give teams direction. Good managers involve staff in setting realistic and measurable goals, breaking them down into achievable steps. Just as important is following up—celebrating progress, addressing roadblocks, and maintaining momentum.6. Adaptability and Continuous LearningNew Zealand’s small businesses often operate in rapidly changing markets, particularly in rural and regional areas. Good team managers are agile—they pivot quickly when things shift, and they encourage their teams to grow with them. This might involve upskilling, embracing new technology, or simply learning from mistakes and trying again.To Sum UpEffective team management isn’t about being the boss—it’s about being a leader others want to follow.In New Zealand’s small business environment, where teamwork and community are often at the heart of success, investing in your people is investing in your future.By developing core management skills like communication, empathy, delegation, and adaptability, you’ll build a team that’s not only high-performing but proud to be part of your business journey.And what do I think is the most important of everything outlined above?I would say without hesitation that getting ‘delegation and trust’ right will be the one step that will have the greatest impact in your business.If you’d like to talk more about this, please contact me on 027 433 1430. I’d be happy to expand on this subject with you.

The Zeekr 7X, a fully electric mid-size crossover SUV from premium EV brand Zeekr, could soon be spotted on the Hibiscus Coast. Recently showcased in Australia, the model is part of Zeekr’s global delivery push in 2025, which includes Europe, Australia, and New Zealand.Launched in 2024 under the Geely Auto Group (which also owns Volvo, Polestar, and Lotus), the Zeekr 7X takes aim at rivals like the Tesla Model Y and Polestar 3. It blends luxury, practicality, and performance in a family-friendly package designed for global roads.Standout specs include an 800V ultra-fast charging system, a 100+ kWh battery, and a range of over 700 km (CLTC). Buyers can choose between dual- or tri-motor all-wheel-drive setups, with 0–100 km/h acceleration in under four seconds.With sleek styling and tech-loaded interiors, the Zeekr 7X would look right at home cruising along Hibiscus Coast Highway or parked at Gulf Harbour Marina. The big question for Coasties isn’t if, but when they’ll get the chance to drive one.If New Zealand pricing matches the brand’s competitive positioning in China, the 7X could become a serious contender for anyone considering a premium EV in 2025.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

Thousands of New Zealanders could face delayed retirements due to under-diversified KiwiSaver portfolios, according to new research prompting calls for more adviser education on emerging asset classes.KiwiSaver balances have hit a record $112 billion, with the average member’s balance now $33,514, yet most funds remain focused on traditional investments. Swyftx CEO Jason Titman says only two providers offer any digital asset exposure, leaving New Zealand “behind global trends” seen in countries like Canada and Singapore.“If you’d invested $10 a day in Bitcoin over the past 10 years, that $36,500 would now be worth around $2.8 million,” says Titman. “Even a small allocation to high-growth assets can dramatically shift long-term outcomes.”While balanced KiwiSaver funds returned about 6–7% annually over the past decade, digital assets have delivered far greater gains, albeit with higher volatility. Titman says a disciplined 3–5% allocation could modernise portfolios without taking unnecessary risks.For Hibiscus Coast residents, the debate matters because a large portion of the community is in KiwiSaver’s core demographic of 25–45-year-olds, many already self-investing in crypto outside the system. If KiwiSaver adapts, locals could benefit from more choice and potentially faster retirement growth.Titman is calling for improved adviser training and certification to help navigate these options, noting 14% of Kiwis already invest in digital assets independently.“Better-informed advisers build better portfolios,” he says. “The goal isn’t speculation, it’s meeting future retirement needs.”Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

Business leaders say the economy is stuck in a holding pattern, with rural regions showing more optimism than urban centres, according to the first NZ Chambers of Commerce Business and Economy Survey.The survey, involving over 20 Chambers from Northland to Southland, represents tens of thousands of businesses across all sectors. Most CEOs report steady but flat conditions, cautious investment, and a wait for stability.Auckland Business Chamber CEO Simon Bridges described a “Groundhog Day” of fatigue after tough years, while rural-backed regions like Canterbury, Southland, Manawatū-Whanganui, and Queenstown Lakes are buoyed by strong agriculture, tourism, food production, manufacturing, and logistics.In contrast, urban hubs like Auckland are lagging, and some regions such as Nelson-Tasman and Northland face weak demand and cost pressures. Sectors like retail, hospitality, and construction remain under strain.On the Hibiscus Coast, local business confidence is expected to mirror Auckland’s softer mood, with many operators feeling the pinch from rising costs, lower consumer demand, and uncertainty. This could mean slower recovery locally unless export-led gains start flowing through.Survey data shows:60% rate regional business confidence as moderate, with 45% expecting no change in six months.79% of businesses are holding steady.89% see infrastructure investment as the best government action.Primary industries are leading recovery in rural areas, but many CEOs agree the rebound has yet to reach urban service-based economies.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

More young people in New Zealand know about nicotine pouches like Zyn—but most don’t want them sold here.New research shows awareness of nicotine pouches jumped sharply between 2023 and 2024. Among 16 to 19-year-olds, 36% had heard of them by 2024. That number rose to 48% for those aged 20 to 29. Use among young adults also increased by more than 60% in the same period.The findings come from a Public Health Communication Centre briefing using local survey data and in-depth interviews with teens aged 16 to 18. Many had seen the products promoted by influencers on TikTok and Instagram. They said the pouches were shown as cool, performance-enhancing, and safer than vaping.But most young people weren’t buying it.University of Otago researcher Dr Jude Ball said curiosity, not a desire to quit smoking, was the main reason for trialling the product. “Our participants were aware that young people were being targeted,” she said, “and most did not support the proposal to introduce them to New Zealand.”That includes many on the Hibiscus Coast, where teens are regularly exposed to social media content pushing trends. This story matters because the government's decision could directly shape what products our local youth see in shops next.Despite official advice against legalisation, Cabinet has agreed in principle to change the law.A final decision is still to come.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

Welcome to The Week That Was.Your go-to recap of important news, stories, and updates for the Hibiscus Coast community.Your Vote Decides The Hibiscus Coast’s FutureRead more →What Dual Stadiums Mean For Hibiscus Coast FansRead more →What NCEA Rankings Mean For Hibiscus Coast StudentsRead more →Maximise Claims On Company Vehicles (Sponsored)Read more →Beach Updates Go Live For Hibiscus CoastRead more →Your Coast. Your news. Your app.Download the Hibiscus Coast App for instant local updates. Anytime, anywhere.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

New Zealand's grocery prices stabilised last year, but remained higher than in many many other developed nations, according to the Commerce Commission.The Annual Grocery Report for 2024 also highlighted "geographic inequities", where areas like Auckland enjoyed more competition, compared to less populated regions."In 2024, retail grocery prices appeared to have stabilised after years of significant growth, which was reflected in a slowing of the major supermarket's gross margin growth, however, grocery prices remain higher than the OECD average," grocery commissioner Pierre van Heerden said.However, he noted recent 2025 data showed retail prices rising, highlighting the need for more work to improve competition.The Commission said the most recent data from 2023 showed New Zealand prices were three percent higher than the OECD average, although the gap has narrowed.It was nine percent higher in 2022, and 14 percent higher than the OECD average in 2021.The commission said major supermarkets maintained their national market share of 82 percent, but there had been some movement within the group."Pak'nSave has increased its market share while Woolworths has had a continued decline in market share over the past five years," van Heerden said.However, he highlighted geographical differences in supermarkets' dominance."Consumers in Auckland and other main cities have a range of options, but consumers in smaller towns and rural areas typically have minimal to no choice within their locality, with some stores in small towns functioning as a localised monopoly," van Heerden said.The report said in Auckland major supermarkets held 71 percent of the market, compared to 88 percent in the rest of the country.It also found 90 percent of New Zealanders were within a 10-minute drive from a major supermarket.The top of the South Island, West Coast, Otago, Waikato and Taranaki were where the major chains held the most dominance.

Auckland FC has strengthened its line-up with the signing of Australian winger Lachlan Brook from Major League Soccer side Real Salt Lake, giving local football fans another reason to get behind the team this season.Brook, 24, brings over 100 professional appearances and 18 goals to Auckland, along with experience in Australia, England, and the US. He says he’s eager to make his mark in front of a home crowd.“There’s so much hype for this team and what they’ve achieved on and off the pitch,” he says. “I’ve heard plenty about the fans and the numbers who turn out. I can’t wait to get out there and show them what I’m all about.”Brook’s career began at Adelaide United, where he was part of the 2019 FFA Cup-winning side. He then spent time with Brentford and Crewe Alexandra in England before returning to the A-League with Western Sydney Wanderers, where he netted nine goals in 23 appearances.Head Coach Steve Corica says Brook’s versatility and proven record will be a boost for the side.“He knows the league, has an eye for goal, and is a proven professional. We needed to boost our attack this season and he fits the bill.”Brook has also represented Australia at U18 and U23 levels, including scoring the winner in the 2019 AFF U18 Championship Final.Season memberships are now on sale, giving Hibiscus Coast fans the chance to catch all 13 home games and meet the players.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

If you’re heading in or out of the Hibiscus Coast next week at night, plan ahead.SH1 between Silverdale and Oteha Valley Road will be closed in both directions on different nights for maintenance.Southbound: Closed Sunday 10 August, 9pm to 5amNorthbound: Closed Tuesday 12 to Thursday 14 August, 9pm to 5amThe closures are part of NZTA’s general maintenance schedule.Dates may shift depending on weather.Affected ramps include:Silverdale southbound on-rampOteha Valley Road southbound off-rampOteha Valley Road northbound on-rampSilverdale northbound off-rampBP Dairy Flat ramps (no public access during works)Recommended detours:Use Twin Coast Discovery Highway, Dairy Flat Highway and Oteha Valley Road.Locals travelling at night, including shift workers, airport-bound drivers or anyone heading to Auckland after hours, may need to allow extra time.Some ramp restrictions may begin earlier than 9pm.This work coincides with full closures for the Penlink project.There will be no through access on SH1 in either direction from 10 to 14 August, 9pm to 5am.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

Homeowners on the Hibiscus Coast wanting to add a garden shed, small garage, or sleep-out will soon face fewer rules and faster approvals.By the end of 2025, new government changes will relax setback requirements for small buildings.Cabinet has agreed to scrap the minimum distance rule for single-storey buildings under 10 square metres and reduce the setback to just one metre for those between 10 and 30 square metres.Previously, sheds and similar buildings had to be as far from a boundary or another residential building as they were tall.Anything closer needed a costly and time-consuming building consent.Regulation Minister David Seymour says the shift came after hearing frustrations via the Red Tape Tipline.“Section sizes are shrinking, and the cost of living rising. Forcing people to put sheds in the middle of their lawn or pay for consent doesn’t make sense.”Building and Construction Minister Chris Penk says the change is a “real win” for anyone short on space, giving them more freedom to add useful backyard structures without extra paperwork.For Coasties, it means it will soon be easier to create storage for bikes and tools, a sheltered spot for the car, or even a cosy guest sleepout — without jumping through as many hoops.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

Sixteen percent of last year's school-leavers had no qualifications, the highest figure in a decade.It equates to about 10,600 teenagers, and is 0.4 of a percentage point worse than the previous year and about six percentage points higher than the 10-11 percent recorded in the years prior to the start of the pandemic.The percentage of school leavers with no NCEA certificate has been rising since 2020, a trend teachers blamed on the after-effects of Covid-19 lockdowns combined with high employment prompting more young people to leave school earlier than they otherwise would.Some worried any weakening of those effects would be cancelled out by the introduction last year of a tougher literacy and numeracy requirement which applied to students who wanted to leave with NCEA level 1.The Education Ministry's figures showed 13 percent of last year's leavers had not reached the literacy and numeracy benchmark compared to about 10 percent under the previous requirement in pre-pandemic years.The figures showed 81 percent of last year's leavers had stayed at school until the age of 17 or beyond, up from 79 percent the previous year with bigger increases in retention at schools in poorer communities.Māori had the worst results - 28 percent left with no qualification last year, compared with 19 percent of Pacific leavers and 14 percent of European/Pākehā leavers.In Tai Tokerau nearly one in five leavers had no NCEA certificate.Socioeconomic barriers had a big impact - 28 percent of leavers from schools facing the most barriers had no NCEA certificate compared with 4 percent of leavers from schools facing the fewest barriers.The figures showed 76 percent of last year's leavers had level 2 NCEA or better, 0.6 of a percentage point more than in 2023.The percentage of leavers with at least NCEA level 3 rose 2.7 percentage points to 56 percent.

Thinking about buying in Auckland?Now might be your moment.The average asking price for a house in the region fell to $989,250 in July, according to the latest Trade Me Property Pulse Report.That’s nearly $17,000 less than June and the first time since September 2024 that prices have dipped below the $1 million mark.Trade Me Property’s Gavin Lloyd says this drop has arrived earlier than usual, which could mean more time for prices to stay low.“Last year, prices were under $1 million for two months. This year’s trend could last longer, offering a unique opportunity for buyers.”For Coasties keeping an eye on Auckland’s housing market, this shift matters.Many locals work or invest across the city, and a softening in prices could make long-term goals a little more reachable.Nationally, average asking prices also eased, down to $821,750.The Bay of Plenty and Taranaki saw the steepest monthly drops, while Canterbury and Southland held steady or rose.Despite the price falls, there’s still a healthy number of listings.While listings were down 3% from June, overall buyer interest was up 3% month-on-month.Lloyd calls the current conditions a “golden opportunity” for buyers.With more time and less pressure, he says it’s a good window to buy well — if you're ready.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

If you’ve been wondering what IKEA might bring to New Zealand, they’ve just given a quiet first look.The brand has shared five everyday items they think will fit right in with the way Kiwis live at home.These aren’t showpieces.They’re functional bits and pieces picked from what IKEA found in its Life at Home Report for New Zealand.One of them is a shoe rack.Not exactly glamorous, but if your front door is a jumble of boots and jandals, you’ll get it.The MACKAPÄR rack stacks vertically to save space, and IKEA says nearly nine out of ten homes here struggle with cluttered entryways.They’ve also highlighted the KALLAX shelving unit. It’s the kind of thing you can use for toys, books, crafts, or even as a room divider.Helpful if your living room has to serve a few different purposes.Photo: BILLY BookcaseThe other picks include:The BILLY bookcase, which is known for being simple and easy to personaliseUPPDATERA storage boxes, which help tidy up junk drawers or kitchen cupboardsIKEA 365+ containers, which stack neatly and help keep your pantry organisedThere’s still no confirmed opening date for the Auckland store, but these picks give a sense of what’s coming.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

A woman has moved her elderly parents out of multiple rehab and respite facilities because of serious concerns including over-crowding, mistakes with medication and unchanged soiled bedding.She said sweeping reform is needed in aged care.The woman, Sandy*, said earlier this year her father, who has dementia, was discharged from a hospital in the middle of the night in his pyjamas because there was no longer a bed for him.RNZ has revealed there is a 20 bed ward at North Shore Hospital full of patients with no medical reason to be there, but there is nowhere suitable for them to go because of their complex discharge needs, requiring specialist nursing and allied health workforces.That prompted Sandy to contact Checkpoint about her experience.She believes the system is already overstretched and it is only going to get worse with an ageing population.Sandy told Checkpoint she had moved her parents from four or five facilities in the past year, for a raft of reasons."Not enough space, the food is not nutritional... there's not enough people, you're getting a shower if you're lucky every third or fourth day."She said she had been told the lack of showers was standard."People will get a shower about twice a week... we were told at every single facility, 'no, you get shower twice a week, that's our standard of care'."Lack of separation between patients was another issue Sandy raised, with many patients, including those with dementia, sharing wards."There's no delineation often with dementia patients, so there are buzzers going all day and all night, people going in each other's room, six people to a bathroom, televisions going at 90 decibels, day and night."In busier times, she said she had seen patients sharing a room.On one occasion a lack of staffing led to her mother, a patient at the facility herself, to be caring for another patient."There was a woman in the room next door who cried all day and all night and it was my mother who was there meant to be being looked after, who ended up caring for this woman because the carers didn't know what to do with her."Sandy said her elderly father had also been treated poorly.She said her elderly father was made to leave the hospital in the middle of the night due to a lack of beds."My father, who was at end of life, [at] 3am was put in a taxi in his pyjamas with no shoes and sent back home because they didn't have a bed for him."The incident shocked her."I was just staggered, absolutely. You know, if someone had told me that story, I would have said no, that can't be right."Sandy said her father had also been given the wrong doses of medication."A double dose of medication and then a few weeks later, the wrong medication."She said while the situations had been dealt with well by the facility, she was worried for vulnerable people who did not have someone looking out for them."What about the people that don't have a Sandy? What about the people who don't have a voice? How many other mistakes? How many other things are being overlooked?"Sandy said she had experienced a raft of issues in facilities and hospitals, once being told by the hospital that soiled beds did not get changed on a Sunday."It's just such a stretched system. We could probably do with double the number of carers, double the number of doctors, double the number of beds and that wouldn't be enough."I think it's such a systemic problem and I don't know the answer, but it's sweeping reform... it is depressing."Checkpoint has sought comment on this story from Health New Zealand - Te Whatu Ora.*Not her real name