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Golf Warehouse offers to redevelop Auckland's Takapuna Golf Course
Golf Warehouse offers to redevelop Auckland's Takapuna Golf Course

13 September 2025, 8:57 PM

Retailer Golf Warehouse has offered $20m to redevelop A.F. Thomas Park and Takapuna Golf Course on Auckland's North Shore.Auckland Council plans to turn half of the 18-hole golf course at the park into a floodwater catchment area to mitigate the city's increasing flood risks.The Kaipātiki Local Board was expected to begin public consultation on the future of the area in October.One option for the board would be to adopt the Golf Warehouse plan, which would transform 28.7ha of the park into a series of "recreation zones".These included an upgraded driving range, a new "world-class" nine-hole golf course, and a 36-hole floodlit mini golf course.An upgraded Eventfinda Stadium would also be re-built on a raised platform which the retailer said addressed the stadium's vulnerability to flooding.Golf Warehouse owner, chairperson and North Shore resident Eric Faesenkloet said it was an opportunity to make A.F. Thomas Park a multi-purpose community hub for sports, recreation, and entertainment."I'm pleased the council has now confirmed a solution that protects lives and infrastructure for future flooding events and I believe a smart plan like ours not only provides exceptional new golfing facilities but also addresses a surge in demand for other sports like basketball, gymnastics, pickleball, cycling, and skateboarding."We recognise that regular players of Takapuna Golf Course would ideally like to retain 18 holes, but given the area constraints of the new site, we do not believe this is now viable, particularly in regard to safety.Takapuna Golf courseTakapuna Golf Course as seen from above. (File photo) Photo: Nick Monro"The way we play golf has changed significantly in the last decade. Our proposal of a professional nine-hole course, a nine-hole par 3 course, along with a brand new world-class driving range, mini golf courses, and a massive practice putting green, provides a pathway for golfers of every age and ability."He said their proposal would not require any public funding.Eventfinda Stadium CEO Brian Blake said stadium needed replacing."The current venue is 33 years old, in need of an expensive roof and is still susceptible to flood damage, which in 2023 cost $6m in repairs."Golf Warehouse's Proposal will see us able to build a larger venue on a new site to prevent flood damage in the future. I really hope the community gets behind this proposal because it ticks so many boxes for what we need."The Proposed Facilities:A new larger Eventfinda Stadium on a raised platform to address flood vulnerability.A modern, world-class 9-hole golf course with extensive native planting.A 9-hole par-3 community short course, fully flood-lit to extend play hours.A new 100-bay, 250m driving range featuring upgraded high safety nets, and ultra-low blue wave floodlights.A 36-hole floodlit mini golf course and Auckland's largest practice putting green.A multi-purpose community clubhouse with hospitality offering and retail.Golf NZ's Auckland entry-level participation and talent development programmes base.6,000m2 (approx) of additional carparking capacity.Dedicated land for a pickleball facility and a pump track for bikes, scooters, and skateboards.Northern corridor walk/cycleway connecting Wairau Rd with Northcote Rd.

Warning on agreeing to expensive pricing plans when purchasing iPhone 17
Warning on agreeing to expensive pricing plans when purchasing iPhone 17

12 September 2025, 10:58 PM

If you want a new iPhone, be careful what you're signing up for.The iPhone 17 will be available in New Zealand in the middle of this month.But Telecommunications Dispute Resolution (TDR), which deals with complaints about telcos that cannot be resolved directly by consumers, said it was dealing with an increasing number of people who found themselves in financial difficulty after they signed up for a more expensive phone plan in order to access a new device.Telcos often promote the option of paying off a new phone, interest-free, as an additional charge on phone plans.One NZ said iPhone 17s would be available for preorder from 12am on Saturday on an interest-free term with a pay monthly mobile plan."Once pre-orders have been fulfilled and stock is more widely available, the phone will also be available to purchase outright."But chief executive of TDR Herman Visagie said people should take care with that."What we've seen is that while it can be a really great new toy and the interest-free payment plan options that providers have, can be a great way to access it, there are fishhooks from a kind of base affordability perspective and a broader suitability perspective that sometimes gets people tripped up."He said people needed to make sure they could afford the payments, and that the plan they were on would be right for their needs."Because there's limited stock, [telcos] generally force you to go on a payment plan for normally two to three years…."And they'll offer great discounts for certain plans. You'll often seen the advertisements for up to $750 off or something but you'll look at the fine print and it's a really high end plan.Photo by Nic Coury / AFP)Photo: AFP / Nic CouryApple iPhone 17 models are displayed during Apple's "Awe-Dropping" event at the Steve Jobs Theatre on the Apple Park campus in Cupertino, California, on September 9, 2025."If I'm on a $40 plan and I'm going 'ok cool, I'll change to the $75 plan to get this discount', people get stuck and they can actually sometimes end up paying more because often the discounts have conditions like you have to be on an eligible plan for the whole payment period of your phone. So sometimes when you cost it out, you may find that actually that increase in monthly payment more than offsets the discount you're getting."He said iPhones were expensive devices."They cost more than a laptop."You're looking at a $2300 device, and you can put it on a 36-month payment plan, it might only go to $100 or so a month, which seems really affordable. And actually it's much better than putting it on consumer credit for instance, but it does mean that sometimes people think short-term about it, 'this month I can afford it'."They don't think about Christmas when their money might be tight, all that kind of thing. You're tying yourself up for a really long period of time."Visagie said telcos did not assess the affordability of a plan in the same way that a lender would if someone was applying for credit."They don't actually really have a way of going, 'hey, John, can you actually afford this? And we're assessing whether you can or not'. And look, consumer choice, right? You don't want to make it too difficult."You don't want to be expecting people to bring in screeds of paper and their bank statements to prove that they can."But I think it's that classic thing of you don't do a formalised assessment and then you package it in a way that a consumer might go in the moment, oh, that seems doable. But then they don't think about all the future months."Sometimes they forget that they go, 'I could pay $120 a month', like that seems feasible. But remember that's before you then also add your $69 plan. So actually you're paying $190 a month."He said it might be a good idea to pay more money upfront to reduce the ongoing monthly payments, or try to buy the device outright from Apple."One NZ said the "vast majority" of customers wanted to purchase their phone with a monthly plan."That's become even more popular with One Wallet. It allows Kiwis (regardless of whether they're a customer or not) to earn Phone Dollars to save on their next interest free phone upgrade when they choose to join One NZ on a Pay Monthly mobile plan."Spark was also approached for comment.

Visibility: Make Your Business Impossible to Ignore (sponsored)
Visibility: Make Your Business Impossible to Ignore (sponsored)

12 September 2025, 7:28 PM

Running a small business can sometimes feel like you’re working away quietly while others seem to grab all the attention.You know your service or product is solid, but if the right people don’t see you, growth slows.That’s where business visibility makes the difference.Marketing thinker Seth Godin once said, “Being noticed is not the same as being chosen. But you can’t be chosen without being noticed.”Visibility is about making sure people know you exist, trust what you do, and remember you when they’re ready to buy.What Visibility Really MeansBusiness visibility is how easy it is for people to find and recognise your business. It doesn’t mean being everywhere at once or chasing every new platform.As Simon Sinek, author of Start With Why, put it: “Visibility without value is meaningless.”Or, as Trade Me founder Sam Morgan once said, “You need to focus on building something people actually want.”Visibility only works when your offer solves a real problem for customers.On the Hibiscus Coast, that could mean being discovered on Google, showing up on the Hibiscus Coast App, or being spotted at a community event.A Local Plan to Boost Your VisibilityBe where your customers already are. Gary Vaynerchuk often says, “Attention is the new currency.”The businesses that grow are the ones that know exactly where their customers spend time, whether that’s mobile, social platforms, search engines, or local networks, and focus their energy there.Show up consistently. As Brad Sugars, founder of ActionCOACH, puts it: “Be so good at marketing that people can’t ignore you.”Consistency in your updates, photos, and messaging makes you part of your customers’ everyday awareness.Lean into community. Daniel Priestley, author of Key Person of Influence, says, “Visibility is credibility. When people see you often, they start to believe in you.”Collaborations, sponsorships, and partnerships locally can build that credibility faster.That ties in with Sir Stephen Tindall, founder of The Warehouse, who once said, “Business is about more than making money. It’s about making a difference.”Supporting community clubs, events, or causes is one of the most effective ways Coast businesses can stay visible while making a positive impact.Add a little fuel.Even modest advertising helps.Alex Hormozi reminds us, “Obscurity is the enemy of business.”A smart local campaign can take you from being unknown to being the first name people think of.Measure and adjust. Ancient strategist Sun Tzu wrote, “Tactics without strategy is the noise before defeat.”Tracking what’s working and aligning it to a clear plan ensures you’re not just busy, you’re effective.This local business had their ad seen 5,370 times on the Hibiscus Coast App in just two weeks.Final WordIf your business feels like the best-kept secret, it’s time to change that.Visibility isn’t about being the loudest, it’s about showing up consistently in the right places so locals know you’re there.With the right approach, you can make your business impossible to ignore on the Hibiscus Coast.👉 Want to explore simple, local ways to make your business more visible? Let’s talk and find the right path for you.

Auckland Awaits Big Powerball Break
Auckland Awaits Big Powerball Break

12 September 2025, 4:02 AM

Auckland hasn’t seen a Powerball winner since Christmas Day 2024, but that could change with Saturday’s $10 million Must Be Won draw.In the eight months since, winners have popped up in Wellington, Christchurch and Dunedin, leaving Aucklanders empty-handed. Lotto NZ says this is the longest spell without a local win in at least six years.“With around a third of Aotearoa’s population living in Auckland, it’s quite an anomaly not to see any Powerball winners from the region this year,” said Will Hine, Lotto NZ’s Head of Corporate Communications.The North Island has still fared better overall with eight of this year’s 14 wins, compared with six for the South. And it hasn’t been all bad news in Auckland, with nine locals becoming millionaires in 2025 through Lotto and Strike.For Hibiscus Coast players, the Must Be Won draw adds extra interest. If no one wins First Division Powerball, the jackpot rolls down to the next division and is shared out. Either way, someone will walk away with millions.Lotto NZ is also preparing for a technology upgrade on 29 September, which will see new in-store terminals and changes to online limits. Stores and MyLotto will be offline overnight from Sunday 28 September until later on Monday 29 September.With queues expected, Lotto NZ recommends buying tickets early on Saturday, ahead of sales closing at 7.30pm.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

Council Moves to Boost Tsunami Readiness
Council Moves to Boost Tsunami Readiness

11 September 2025, 8:44 PM

Auckland Council has adopted a new plan to strengthen tsunami resilience, setting out clear steps to help communities prepare, withstand and recover from emergencies.The Tsunami Resilience Action Plan was signed off on 9 September by the Civil Defence and Emergency Management Committee. Chair Sharon Stewart says the milestone is about giving Aucklanders tools to protect themselves and their families. She highlighted the focus on educating young people and building stronger partnerships with community groups and marae.The plan covers a range of initiatives, from updated mapping and school programmes to tailored support for coastal and vulnerable communities. It also aims to strengthen warning systems, embed tsunami planning in council facilities and expand the Emergency Mobile Alert network. Advice for boaties and better signage in high-risk coastal spots are also included.For Coasties, living close to the shoreline means these actions matter. Orewa, Red Beach and other low-lying parts of the Hibiscus Coast sit inside evacuation zones, so awareness and preparation can make all the difference in an emergency.Officials say natural warnings are just as important as official alerts. A strong or long earthquake, unusual sea noises or a sudden rise or fall in sea level should all trigger immediate action: head to higher ground without waiting.Households are encouraged to make and practise an emergency plan, so everyone knows where to go and what to take if evacuation is needed.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

Growth: Building Better Teams (sponsored)
Growth: Building Better Teams (sponsored)

11 September 2025, 4:49 AM

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.

New Future-Focused School Subjects Announced
New Future-Focused School Subjects Announced

10 September 2025, 10:00 PM

The Government has unveiled a new set of senior secondary school subjects, aimed at preparing young New Zealanders for the jobs of tomorrow. Education Minister Erica Stanford says the refreshed curriculum for Years 11–13 will give students purposeful pathways, more choice, and the chance to specialise in areas that set them up for success.Subjects will be phased in from 2028 and include both restructured existing subjects and brand-new ones. Students will be able to dive into fields like Earth and Space Science, Statistics and Data Science, and Electronics and Mechatronics, as well as specialist maths such as Further Maths.New options like Civics, Politics and Philosophy, Media and Communications, Pacific Studies, and Music Technology will sit alongside strengthened industry-led courses in areas such as building, hospitality, health, and mechanical engineering. These industry-aligned subjects are designed to bridge directly into the professional world, allowing students to leave school with both secondary and tertiary qualifications.With the rapid rise of artificial intelligence, students will also learn about digital systems, cybersecurity, and machine learning, with a specialist Year 13 subject on Generative AI under consideration.For Hibiscus Coast families, the change means local students will have access to subjects that connect directly to future careers, whether in trades, tech, or tertiary study. Schools will be supported with resources, training, and classroom-ready materials well before the rollout.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

Jetstar announces new domestic, trans-Tasman flights
Jetstar announces new domestic, trans-Tasman flights

10 September 2025, 7:37 PM

Jetstar says the addition of two new domestic services - and added flights on existing routes - will open up more than 660,000 extra seats on the airline each year.A new flight was planned between Brisbane and Queenstown during next year's ski season, while daily flights from Hamilton to Christchurch would begin this December.The airline was also increasing the number of flights linking Auckland to Christchurch and Dunedin, as well as three trans-Tasman routes.Flights connecting Auckland to Brisbane would now run twice daily, while four extra flights between Auckland and Sydney would add nearly 80,000 seats to the route each year.Flights linking Christchurch to Melbourne would also increase with an additional 26,000 seats becoming available as the flight was upgraded to a daily service.Jetstar Group CEO Stephanie Tully said the changes would bring more tourism into the country and boost connectivity about the motu and across the Tasman."We know how vital air travel is for connecting Kiwi families, friends, holidaymakers and business travellers. These changes will give a much-needed boost to inbound tourism while offering Kiwis even more low-fares and choice in how they travel."She said the changes would lift Jetstar's total NZ domestic capacity by 18 percent and 14 percent across the Tasman, making the move the single-biggest expansion ever of its New Zealand and trans-Tasman network.The airline would base an additional A320 aircraft in Auckland to manage the added flights.Tully said the changes - alongside additional Qantas flights between Christchurch and Sydney and Qantas' use of a new A220 aircraft on flights linking Wellington to Sydney - would further bolster Aotearoa's connectivity with Australia and further afield."With more seats on our trans-Tasman network than ever before, with one stop in Australia, Kiwis will have enhanced connectivity to Asia and beyond," Tully said.The new A220 aircraft joined the Qantas fleet in early 2024, and was a more fuel efficient design that boasted a nearly 50 percent reduction in noise as well as specially designed seats, windows and improved device connectivity for passengers.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

Accounting: Buying and selling a business (sponsored)
Accounting: Buying and selling a business (sponsored)

09 September 2025, 9:31 PM

Buying or selling a business can be complicated and understanding the tax consequences is crucial to maximising value and avoiding costly surprises.The way the transaction is structured can significantly impact both buyer and seller.Here are brief notes of some of the items to consider.Asset Sale vs. Share SaleMost transactions are structured as asset sales rather than share sales.An asset sale allows the buyer to “pick and choose” assets, such as stock, plant, and goodwill, and to avoid taking on unwanted liabilities.The seller, however, may face income tax on depreciation recovery (for fixed assets) and on trading stock.A share sale involves a transfer of shares basically buying a business as is where is inheriting historic liabilities.Care must be taken with shareholder current accounts as they are a debt owing by the company.A change of shares may also extinguish losses or tax credits, and requires special planning.Goodwill and IntangiblesAmounts allocated to goodwill are non-deductible for buyers. However, other intangibles, such as software or patents, may qualify for depreciation deductions.Ensuring the sale and purchase agreement clearly allocates values to different asset classes is essential to avoid disputes and optimise tax outcomes.If there is no agreement the values can be allocated by one party to the disadvantage of the other party.GST ConsiderationsIf both parties are GST-registered, the sale of a business can qualify as a “going concern” and be zero-rated for GST.To achieve this, specific conditions must be met, including that the business is capable of operating on its own.Otherwise, GST may apply, affecting cash flow and purchase price.Timing and StructuringCareful planning around timing — such as deferring settlement into a new income year — may help smooth taxable income.Vendor financing or earn-out arrangements also require careful tax analysis.In summary: In New Zealand, business sales can be structured to achieve tax efficiency, but the detail matters.Engaging tax advisers early ensures risks are managed and opportunities maximised.At David Hooper Chartered Accountants, we help local businesses make smart financial decisions. Get in touch today at [email protected] or call 09 421 1635.

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