This summer, Surf Life Saving New Zealand (SLSNZ) focused on prevention to keep beachgoers safe. During the patrol season (Labour Weekend to 28 April), they conducted 577 rescues, a significant drop from the previous years—873 rescues in 2023/24 and 1,472 in 2022/23. This decrease is attributed to the substantial rise in preventative actions taken by surf lifeguards. They completed 47,487 preventive actions, impacting nearly 1 million people—almost double the number from last season.Preventative actions occur when lifeguards spot potential dangers early and intervene before they escalate into emergencies. This includes warning swimmers about rip currents or unsafe conditions, checking on swimmers who appear to be struggling, or moving people out of flagged areas.Andy Kent, General Manager of Lifesaving at SLSNZ, attributes this reduction in rescues to the ongoing work and education provided by surf lifeguards.“The last thing anyone wants is beachgoers, and surf lifeguards, getting into a life-threatening situation," says Andy. “It’s incredibly positive to see those rescue numbers start to trend down.”January 29 was the busiest day of the summer season, with 90 incidents and nearly 200,000 people on the beaches. February saw the highest number of rescues due to warmer weather.Throughout the summer, surf lifeguards worked over 240,000 hours, an increase from previous years. Andy highlights the dedication of the 4,000-plus volunteer lifeguards.“We can enjoy downtime on the beach because others are giving up their time to keep us safer,” he says.Even though the patrol season has ended, lifeguards will continue to train and upskill over the winter months. Volunteer Search and Rescue squads remain on standby, ready to respond to any emergencies.Andy reminds beachgoers to take extra care during the off-season. “If you’re unsure about your ability to handle the conditions, stay on the beach and get home safely. And if you see someone in trouble, call 111 and ask for Police.”Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

The vehicle market in New Zealand for 2025 is shaping up to be a diverse one, with SUVs and compact cars leading the charge. The top-selling petrol models so far this year are the Toyota RAV4, Mitsubishi Outlander, and Kia Seltos, all of which show the continued popularity of petrol-powered vehicles.Leading the charge in the petrol market is the Toyota RAV4, with 2,444 units sold, closely followed by the Mitsubishi Outlander at 993 units. The Kia Seltos, Mitsubishi ASX, and Suzuki Swift round out the top five, with sales figures highlighting a strong demand for SUVs and compact cars. These models primarily run on petrol, with some offering hybrid variants, but the petrol versions continue to dominate.In the electric vehicle (EV) market, 2025 has brought a significant shift. Tesla still holds the top spot, but new contenders like Polestar and BYD are quickly gaining ground. The Polestar 2 leads the fully electric vehicles with 162 units sold, followed closely by the BYD Atto 3 at 155 units. The Tesla Model Y and Model 3 remain strong contenders in the EV space, but the rise of Polestar and BYD suggests that the electric car market is expanding rapidly.On the hybrid front, vehicles like the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid and Mitsubishi Outlander Hybrid continue to be top-sellers. With the removal of EV incentives, hybrid models now account for 34% of new vehicle sales in 2025, making them a popular choice for those looking for a balance between petrol and electric power.In the diesel segment, utes remain dominant, particularly in commercial sales. The Toyota Hilux and Ford Ranger are leading the charge, with the Mitsubishi Triton and Nissan Navara following closely behind.Coasties, these trends highlight how the car market in New Zealand is evolving, with petrol, EV, hybrid, and diesel vehicles all seeing robust sales. Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

With ongoing cost of living pressures, the Australian and New Zealand supermarket sectors are attracting renewed political attention on both sides of the Tasman.Allegations of price gouging have become a political issue in the Australian federal election. At the same time, the New Zealand government has announced that “all options” are on the table to address a lack of competition in the sector – including possible breakup of the existing players.But it is not clear breaking up the supermarkets or other government interventions will improve the sector for shoppers and suppliers.In 2022, I co-authored a government-commissioned analysis looking at whether New Zealand’s two main supermarket groups should be forced to sell some of their stores to create a third competing chain.We found it was possible under some scenarios that breakup could benefit consumers. But key uncertainties and implementation risks meant consumers could lose overall.A lot hinges on whether breakup causes supermarkets’ input costs to rise or product variety to fall. Even in more positive scenarios at least some consumers could be left worse off.Watchdog concernsCompetition authorities – the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) and New Zealand’s Commerce Commission – have conducted supermarket sector studies. They each expressed concern at significant barriers to entry and expansion in the sector and supermarkets’ resulting high levels of profitability.This year, the ACCC concluded margins earned by Australia’s main supermarkets are among the highest of supermarket businesses in comparable countries. Similarly, in 2022 the Commerce Commission found New Zealand’s supermarkets were earning excess profits of around NZ$430m a year.While high profits might mean that market power is being abused, it could also mean managers are doing a good job. Or have had a great run of luck. Alternative explanations for high profits would need to be ruled out before putting fingers on regulatory triggers.Barriers to entryThe starting point is to acknowledge that high profits and prices go hand in hand with barriers to entry and challenges in achieving economies of scale.In other words, some sectors are less competitive than others simply because a lack of demand or high costs make it unprofitable for additional competitors to either enter or remain in the market.Countries like Australia and New Zealand, with low population densities and large service areas, face high costs of nationwide supply. They also face significant shipping distances from other countries. This limits the ability of overseas entrants using their existing buying and supply infrastructures.That said, some barriers to entry might be artificial or caused by existing firms stifling new competitors.Existing supermarkets in both countries have gained controlling stakes in the land needed to set up new supermarkets – something regulatory settings can prevent.Another challenge for new chains is the process of getting planning and land use consents – something policymakers can address.This points to key elements of a test for whether supermarkets are charging too much. One is a recognition that there can be natural reasons for limited competition, and unless technologies or consumer preferences change that will remain the case.Another is a focus on the things that can be changed – whether at the firm or policy level – in a way that benefits consumers and suppliers. Finally, policymakers need to consider whether the benefits of implementing them outweigh the costs.Testing the marketBuilding on work developed by Nobel economist Oliver Williamson, a “three-limb test” was used in the 2017 government-commissioned assessment of fuel pricing in New Zealand that I co-authored. The same could be used to assess the supermarket sector.That three-limb test asksare there features of the existing industry structure and conduct giving cause for concerncan those causes for concern be remediedwould the benefits of remedying those concerns outweigh the costs of doing so?If the answer to all three limbs is yes, that suggests suppliers are charging too much (or delivering too little) since there are practical ways to improve on the status quo.A virtue of such a test is that is can be applied in any sector where there are high firm concentration, barriers to entry and high profit margins.Importantly, the test looks beyond just what firms are (or are not) doing and asks whether policy and regulatory settings are ripe for improvements too.The test is also pragmatic – it shouldn’t trigger changes unless they are clearly expected to do more good than harm. This is important if interventions are risky, costly or irreversible, especially in sectors that are important to all of us.Politicians on both sides of the Tasman are floating the possibility of supermarket breakup, among other possible interventions. The three-limb test helps to identify whether any proposed interventions are a good idea and whether supermarket prices are higher than they need to be.Originally published on The Conversation.Author: Richard Meade, Adjunct Associate Professor, Centre for Applied Energy Economics and Policy Research, Griffith University.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

A yellow-bellied sea snake was spotted resting in the sand dunes at the southern end of Omaha Beach yesterday, prompting a public warning from the Department of Conservation (DOC).The sighting, reported by a member of the public who sent in a photo, led DOC Senior Ranger Karl Fisher to advise locals to avoid the area.The sea snake found on Omaha Beach near Auckland. Photo: Supplied / Department of Conservation“It’s rare to find these sea snakes on land, but the recent extreme weather conditions likely brought it ashore,” said Fisher.“Yellow-bellied sea snakes are venomous and can be aggressive if disturbed.”In response, DOC issued an immediate request for dog walkers and families with children to stay clear of the dunes.A DOC ranger visited the site to assess the situation, and the area has since been cordoned off while DOC decides the next steps.Fisher also reminded the public that it is illegal to kill or possess a native sea snake, and anyone who encounters one should report it to DOC’s hotline at 0800 DOC HOT (0800 362 468).Coasties visiting Omaha Beach should continue to stay aware of the potential danger in the area.While it’s rare for sea snakes to be found on land, this sighting serves as a reminder of the unpredictable impacts that recent weather events have had on local wildlife.Staying informed and following DOC’s safety guidelines will help ensure the well-being of everyone in the community.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

This week’s announcement of the preferred corridor for the Brynderwyn Hills section of State Highway 1 has been hailed as a game-changer for the Kaipara and Northland regions, but the benefits extend beyond just these areas. The new route is set to improve access for those on the Hibiscus Coast as well, creating new opportunities for businesses and residents.Transport Minister Chris Bishop revealed that the preferred corridor, which moves east of the current road, will create a safer, more resilient, and more efficient road link between Auckland and Northland. This development marks a significant milestone in the planning for the route.Kaipara Mayor Craig Jepson described the corridor as "the most significant roading announcement for Kaipara and Northland" in our lifetimes, underscoring the long-term impact on the region’s infrastructure and growth potential. While the focus has largely been on Kaipara and Northland, this upgrade will also directly benefit the Hibiscus Coast. Improved access to and from Auckland means residents and businesses in Silverdale, Orewa, and surrounding areas can expect smoother and more efficient travel times, fostering economic opportunities.Johanthan Larsen, Deputy Mayor of Kaipara and Chairman of the KDC Economic Development Committee, commented on the timing of this announcement. "The motorway link to Auckland, coupled with Kaipara's relatively cheap and abundant land supply, provides us with a distinct competitive advantage," Larsen said. "I expect this to benefit the Kaiwaka and Maungaturoto areas initially, with their proximity to the corridor and proposed interchanges, but the benefits will also reach further west into the whole Kaipara district." As the road upgrade progresses, Hibiscus Coast businesses can look forward to more connections and a potentially larger customer base from the increasing traffic flow between Auckland and the North.The Brynderwyn corridor is expected to have a similar effect to the completed Puhoi to Warkworth section of the motorway, which has seen increased demand and property value growth in the western parts of Kaipara. With the new road set to link these regions more effectively, the Hibiscus Coast is poised to benefit from the economic ripple effect as well.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

The Government is ramping up its efforts to roll out electric vehicle (EV) chargers across New Zealand with a new funding model designed to accelerate the installation of public charging stations.This initiative will have a direct impact on the Hibiscus Coast, which currently has six EV charging locations.With the new funding model, more charging stations will be installed across the Coast, making it easier for locals and visitors to confidently switch to electric vehicles.Transport Minister Chris Bishop highlighted that, under the current model, the private sector has been hesitant to invest in charging infrastructure due to uncertainty over demand.To overcome this challenge, the Government is shifting to a more commercial procurement approach.Up to $68.5 million in funding will be allocated to provide concessionary loans to private companies, encouraging them to expand the charging network more quickly."With the increasing popularity of EVs, it's essential that we support infrastructure growth," said Mr Bishop."This initiative will help reduce the barriers to purchasing an EV, particularly for those on the Hibiscus Coast who may be concerned about charging options."Energy Minister Simon Watts also emphasised that EVs align perfectly with New Zealand's renewable energy resources, making them an eco-friendly choice for locals."By charging their EVs, Kiwis are using a clean energy mix of water, wind, and geothermal power. This initiative will further support our environmental and economic goals," he said.The new initiative will be managed by National Infrastructure Funding and Financing (NIFFCo), with loan applications opening soon.For the Hibiscus Coast, this means more charging locations are on the horizon, helping to further ease the transition to electric vehicles.Local EssentialsKnow something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

Auckland FC has made history in their inaugural season by clinching the A-League Men’s Premier’s Plate, awarded to the team finishing top of the regular season table. This triumph marks the first time a New Zealand club has secured the Premiership or Championship in the competition’s history.The title was sealed 408 days after the team’s formation, with Auckland FC's position becoming mathematically unassailable after a 0-0 draw between Melbourne City and Adelaide United. With two games to spare, the club has been dominant throughout the season, conceding just 23 goals in 25 matches.Earlier in the season, 24,400 passionate Black Knights fans attended Go Media Stadium for Auckland FC’s debut home game. Today’s final home game against Perth Glory will be affected by rain, potentially reducing the crowd size, but it still serves as a coronation for the team’s remarkable season.A huge congratulations to Coach Steve Corica, the players, and the management team for making history. What an unforgettable season for Auckland FC!Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

Auckland Airport has secured the #4 spot in the 2025 SKYTRAX Airport Awards for airports with 10-20 million passengers. This recognises the airport’s world-class service, including customer satisfaction in areas like check-in, security, and overall experience.Auckland also ranked #46 globally, showcasing its consistent excellence in passenger service. In the Australia/Pacific region, Auckland maintained its #3 ranking. The Pullman Auckland Airport Hotel, which opened in December 2023, also claimed the #3 spot for Best Airport Hotel in the region.As the busiest airport in New Zealand, Auckland supports over 400 flights per day, contributing $35.1 billion to New Zealand’s economy from travel and tourism, alongside $26 billion in annual trade.For locals on the Hibiscus Coast, Auckland Airport’s success means increased connectivity, ease of travel, and growing economic opportunities. 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 the most important news, stories, and updates for the Hibiscus Coast community.1 in 6 New Zealanders is DisabledRead moreNorthland Expressway Corridor ConfirmedRead moreThe Secret History of the Anzac BiscuitRead moreMore Roadworks on SH1 and SH18 Next WeekRead more$23 Million Lotto Win for Auckland PlayerRead moreStay ahead of the curve—stay connected. Get the latest Hibiscus Coast news delivered directly to your phone 24/7.Download the Hibiscus Coast App today and never miss a story!Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

Coasties, the moment we’ve all been waiting for is here! This Sunday, April 27, Auckland FC will play their final home game of the season against Perth Glory at Go Media Stadium. With the Premier’s Plate on the line, this match promises to be an unforgettable way to close out an incredible inaugural campaign.The match kicks off at 5:00PM, with warm-up starting at 4:15PM. Gates will open at 3:30PM, so make sure to get there early and soak up the excitement ahead of what is sure to be an epic finale.If you can’t make it to the stadium, don’t worry! The match will be broadcast live on Sky Sport, so you can still catch all the action from the comfort of your home.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

New Zealand Food Safety is supporting Pendarves Ltd in recalling a specific range of imported frozen anchovies after testing revealed the presence of domonic acid, a neurotoxin. The toxin can cause amnesic shellfish poisoning in humans. These products should not be eaten, and consumers are urged to return them to the place of purchase for a refund or dispose of them.The affected products were sold at several locations across Auckland, including selected Pak’n Save supermarkets and specialty stores, such as Lim Chhour Supermarket on Karangahape Road, Sunnyray Seafood on Archers Road, Wild Ocean Seafood Limited on Universal Drive, and Seafood Harbour Limited on Kent Street.Consumers are urged not to eat the affected product. If you have purchased the recalled anchovies, you can return them to the store for a full refund. If it is not possible to return the product, you should dispose of it.Symptoms of poisoning typically appear within 24 hours and may include vomiting, nausea, diarrhoea, and abdominal cramps. In more serious cases, neurological symptoms can develop up to three days later, including headaches, dizziness, memory loss, and in severe cases, coma.If you have consumed any of the affected anchovies and are concerned about your health, you are advised to contact your healthcare professional or call Healthline at 0800 611 116 for free advice.New Zealand Food Safety continues to monitor the situation. The recalled products have been removed from store shelves, and no further shipments have been made.For up-to-date information and photos of the affected products, visit New Zealand Food Safety’s recall page.This recall affects Hibiscus Coast residents who shop in Auckland. Take immediate action if you’ve purchased any of the affected products to help prevent potential health risks in the local community.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

An Auckland recycling plant that burnt down on the city's North Shore last night is calling on donations from the public to support staff and replace essential equipment.The Abilities Group recycling plant in Glenfield caught fire yesterday evening, sending plumes of toxic smoke over the city.The fire led to emergency alerts about toxic smoke. Photo: RNZ/Calvin SamuelAbout 90 firefighters from across Auckland and from Hamilton responded to the fire, which was contained on Thursday evening.The Abilities Group said a fire investigator had been at the site on Friday, and the building was being dismantled.Fire on Auckland's North Shore as seen from the city. Photo: Supplied / Geordie WinloveThe blaze destroyed critical equipment, it said.Managing director Peter Fraher was calling on the public to support recovery efforts."Abilities is more than a workplace - it's a supportive environment where disabled people find purpose, opportunity, and community," he said in a statement."Losing that is a huge blow."Fraher said the organisation provided employment and support to over 100 disabled people, and was launching an urgent drive to raise funds.Donations would go towards supporting those staff affected by the fire, finding a temporary site, and replacing what was destroyed in the blaze.The Abilities Group recycling plant in Glenfield burnt down on Thursday night. Photo: RNZ / Kaye AlbertA Give-a-Little page has been set up for those wishing to donate.Fraher said the support from the community had been overwhelming, and thanked emergency responders for their work controlling the fire."We've had an incredible outpouring of kindness from the community already, and we're so grateful."Now we're asking anyone who's ever believed in our mission - or simply wants to help us support our team as we rebuild - to support our fundraiser."

The NZ Transport Agency has announced essential maintenance work on State Highways 1 and 18, set to impact traffic on the Hibiscus Coast. Roadworks will take place at various locations from Sunday, 27 April through Thursday, 1 May.SH1 Maintenance:Oteha Valley Road to Silverdale Interchange: Sunday, 27 April, 9pm–5am.Silverdale Interchange to Oteha Valley Road: Monday, 28 April to Thursday, 1 May, 9pm–5am.Constellation Drive to Oteha Valley Road: Monday, 28 April, 10pm–5am.SH18 Maintenance:Albany Highway to Paul Matthews Road: Monday, 28 April, 10pm–5am.Several lane restrictions, closures, and detours are expected, particularly northbound on SH1. Full closures will occur on the Oteha Valley and Constellation Drive ramps, with signposted detours provided.Despite the closures, traffic will be allowed to travel southbound. Drivers are urged to slow down and follow all instructions.Expect higher-than-usual noise levels due to slip remediation and other maintenance activities, such as road resurfacing and vegetation control.Local residents and commuters should allow extra time for travel during these periods.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

Coasties enjoyed a dry and cool start to ANZAC Day, with temperatures in the mid-teens for Dawn Services. However, cloudier skies and a risk of rain will affect parts of Northland, and this will gradually spread south as the day progresses.By Friday afternoon, rain will begin to push south, reaching Auckland by Saturday. This system brings warm, humid air, so heavy rainfall is a possibility for the region.MetService meteorologist Lewis Ferris explains, “Northland and Auckland may face a wet weekend, and there’s uncertainty around how much rain will fall, so it’s advised to keep up with the latest forecasts.”Saturday looks to be the wettest day, with rain continuing into Sunday. Despite the showers, there will still be pockets of sunshine, so outdoor activities may be possible with some flexibility.For those heading to the Auckland FC match on Sunday evening, expect rain, but hopefully, the weather won’t dampen the supporters' spirits.Stay updated with the latest MetService forecasts to make sure you're ready for whatever the weekend brings.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

Looking for plans? Explore events happening soon on the Hibiscus Coast and start planning your next activity!Anzac Day with Going BananasFri 25 AprMore details MTV Taylor Swift Eras TourFri 25 AprMore details Orewa Beach Farmers MarketSun 27 AprMore 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!

In a big win for Kiwi consumers, banks are introducing stronger safeguards and a new compensation scheme for scam victims, now including the potential for reimbursements of up to $500,000.This comes in response to the Government's call for greater responsibility from banks in protecting their customers.Commerce and Consumer Affairs Minister Scott Simpson applauded the changes, noting that these protections are crucial for consumers across New Zealand, including those here on the Hibiscus Coast.“These changes will make a difference for our local community, ensuring that Kiwis can continue to bank and shop online with more confidence,” said Mr Simpson.“Scams have become a real issue for many of us, but with these new commitments, banks are stepping up to prevent them.”The banks’ updated Code of Banking Practice will feature vital improvements such as pre-transaction warnings, identifying high-risk transactions, and offering a Confirmation of Payee service.This service lets consumers ensure that the recipient’s name matches their bank account before transferring funds.As scams continue to evolve, these new protections are a welcome development for Coasties, but the Government stresses that staying vigilant is still essential.The updated Code will take effect from 30 November 2025, giving banks time to fully implement these safeguards.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

The Government is overhauling its work-based learning system to give industries more control over apprenticeship and traineeship training. Vocational Education Minister Penny Simmonds announced that starting next year, a new, independent, industry-led model will replace the current centralised approach.This change follows feedback from industry leaders, who felt the existing model was not meeting the needs of trades like carpentry, mechanics, and other essential skills. For the Hibiscus Coast community, which is home to a number of tradespeople and small businesses, the shift means that training will become more relevant to local industries, helping businesses here better prepare workers for the jobs that matter most."From 1 January 2026, Industry Skills Boards (ISBs) will be responsible for setting standards, approving programmes, and overseeing assessments," said Simmonds. Local employers and learners in the Hibiscus Coast can expect minimal disruption, with apprentices and trainees currently enrolled with Te Pūkenga transitioning to the ISBs for up to two years.Students will also have the opportunity to enrol directly with private providers, polytechnics, or Wānanga, which will ensure more options for Coasties looking to build their skills in a way that is directly relevant to the demands of local employers."Your qualifications remain valuable, and your training continues on track," assured Simmonds, reinforcing that the changes aim to better support learners and industries alike.The new structure is expected to contribute to economic growth by ensuring workers are better equipped to meet the demands of the modern job market.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

Your weekend weather at a glance.Coasties, here’s what the next four days have in store:Friday, 25/4 (Anzac Day)Windy and cloudy. Breezy to brisk East to Nor'East winds.High: 19Low: 16Saturday, 26/4Showers. Breezy to brisk Nor'East winds.High: 20Low: 17Sunday, 27/4Rain. Fairly breezy Nor'East winds.High: 21Low: 17Monday, 28/4Showers. Fairly breezy East to Nor'East winds.High: 22Low: 17Looking 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!

The history of the Anzac biscuit can be traced back to the 1700s - and contrary to popular belief, it did not evolve from the Scottish oat cake, a culinary historian says.Australian-based historian Allison Reynolds told RNZ's Anzac Morning that the precursor to the Anzac biscuit was featured in a 1747 book by Englishwoman Hannah Glasse, called The Art of Cookery Made Plain and Easy.The biscuit was not identical to today's Anzac biscuit, but featured many of the same ingredients and the same method of making, using melted butter, she said.Many people believed it evolved from the oat cake, but that was not true, she said.Allison Reynolds is an Australian based historian. Photo: Supplied.Anzac biscuits used rolled oats, while oat cakes used ground oat meal.Oat cakes and Anzac biscuits were also made, baked and served differently.Reynolds said the biscuits Kiwis knew and loved today were perfected by Scottish migrants to both Australia and New Zealand.Prior to 1915, they were known by other names, such as 'nutties' or 'munchies', she said.During World War I, wives and mothers began sending the biscuits to soldiers at the front, and they became known as 'Red Cross biscuits' or 'soldiers' biscuits'."They wanted to send something nutritious because they were worried the troops weren't getting that well fed."Earlier versions featured two biscuits sandwiched together with jam, but that changed during the war years.Eggs were also removed from the recipe at that time and golden syrup was added, Reynolds said."The sensible wives and mothers knew that the biscuits would not keep long and because of the war rationing, eggs were not always in ready supply."As well as being sent to soldiers and nurses at the front, the biscuits were baked for fundraisers for the war effort.They became known as Anzac biscuits sometime after the formation of the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps in 1914.Reynolds said the first printed reference to that name that she could find was in the eighth edition of the St Andrew's Cookbook, which was published in 1919.However, there was often a lag of two or three years between when a recipe became popular and when it was published in a cookbook, she said.Reynolds said golden syrup was "absolutely essential" to Anzac biscuits - "don't change it for honey, don't change it for anything else".It should come from a tin rather than a squeezy bottle, as bottled golden syrup was often more liquid, she said.Her findings are published in her book ANZAC Biscuits: The Power and spirit of an everyday icon.