Dame Lisa Carrington, New Zealand’s most decorated Olympian, has been awarded an Honorary Doctorate by Auckland University of Technology (AUT), recognising her exceptional achievements in sport. With nine Olympic medals to her name, including eight golds, Dame Lisa has become a role model for athletes worldwide—and a true inspiration for young girls on the Hibiscus Coast who dream of excelling in sport.While not from the Hibiscus Coast, Dame Lisa’s journey serves as a powerful example to local girls, proving that with dedication, determination, and a focus on their goals, they too can reach the highest levels of achievement. Her remarkable success is a reminder that anyone from any background can achieve greatness.In her acceptance speech, Dame Lisa spoke of the importance of encouraging young girls, especially those in sports, to aim high. “It’s not just about medals and records,” she shared. “It’s about showing young girls that they can dream big, work hard, and stand tall in any space they choose.”AUT Chancellor, Rob Campbell, praised Dame Lisa’s contributions to both sport and society, calling her an exemplary figure who embodies the values of excellence and perseverance that the university stands for.“We are proud to confer this honour upon Dame Lisa, whose journey continues to inspire countless young athletes, especially girls who aspire to greatness.”For the girls of the Hibiscus Coast, Dame Lisa’s recognition is not just a celebration of her individual success.It’s a reminder that dreams are within reach, no matter where you come from.Her story shows that hard work, passion, and belief in yourself can take you to places you never imagined.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

It’s shaping up to be a milder, wetter winter across the Hibiscus Coast and upper North Island, according to NIWA’s seasonal outlook for June to August 2025.The region is expected to see above normal rainfall and warmer-than-usual temperatures, with a 65% chance of higher-than-average temperatures for Northland, Auckland, Waikato, and Bay of Plenty.Rainfall totals are most likely to be above normal (45% chance), and NIWA says we should expect occasional heavy rain events.Residual signs of La Niña are still lingering in the Pacific, and while international models predict a 70% chance of ENSO-neutral conditions over winter, La Niña-like patterns may still crop up occasionally.That means low pressure systems forming to our north could continue to bring moisture-rich air down over the Coast, increasing the risk of downpours.We’re also seeing higher than average sea surface temperatures around much of New Zealand, including marine heatwave conditions offshore.That warmth in the ocean adds extra fuel to rain-making systems and helps explain the higher-than-usual winter temperature forecast.For Coasties, this means fewer frosty mornings but a greater risk of sudden, heavy rainfall.It’s worth keeping gutters clear, checking stormwater drains, and staying alert to forecasts—especially during stormy weeks.Soil moisture and river flows across the North Island are expected to remain near normal, but localised flooding can still happen when intense bursts of rain hit already damp ground.While winter cold snaps and frosts aren’t off the table, they’ll be less frequent than usual.That might come as a relief to early risers and school-run parents—though gardeners and growers may need to adjust their plans for a warmer, wetter season ahead.As always, it’s a good idea to keep an eye on updates and alerts throughout winter.Our coastal weather can turn quickly, and with a few big lows predicted, staying informed can make all the difference.Watch NIWA’s Chris Brandolino as he breaks down what Kiwis can expect over the next three months.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

The Penlink project continues to take shape, and locals should be aware of upcoming works that may impact travel on the Hibiscus Coast.On the nights of 6 and 7 May, there will be a full closure of SH1 between Oteha Valley Road and Silverdale to allow for concrete pouring on the new overbridge. Please plan accordingly.During the closure, earthworks teams will also continue shaping the northbound offramp to connect to the new road.Work continues along Ara Weiti Road, with paving trials, the construction of MSE walls at Link Road 1, and retaining wall works at Link Road 2.In the Stillwater area, large deliveries for the tower crane will begin in late May.The crane will be erected on-site, and piling work will continue for its support base. Please take care when encountering pilot vehicles.The river-based piers continue to grow in height, with the crane's boom extension taking place this month.In Whangaparāoa, the construction of the new intersection at Beverley and Whangaparāoa Roads will begin this month.Night works will be required on Sunday 11 and Monday 12 May from 8 pm to 1 am, with stop/go traffic management between Beverley and Brightside Roads.For those in the community concerned about the two-lane highway design, NZTA explains that traffic modelling shows this will meet expected demand through the late 2020s and 2040s, with the potential for expansion to four lanes when needed.Additionally, the raised crossing on East Coast Road will remain in use for construction vehicles until the project concludes later this year, ensuring worker and public safety.A new video showcasing the Penlink flyover is now available for viewing – watch it to get a closer look at the progress of the project.Finally, a series of short-term closures of the Wēiti River are scheduled for mid-May to enable the safe transfer of concrete for the Pier 4 pile cap.The first closure will run from 5 pm on 13 May to 9 am on 15 May, with a backup from 20 May to 22 May. These closures will not affect downstream vessel navigation.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

After more than a decade of planning, a new purpose-built Surf Life Saving Community Hub is nearly ready to take shape at Ōrewa Reserve.The two-level, 2,000m² facility will serve not only as the new home for Ōrewa Surf Life Saving but as a modern, multi-use space for Coasties to gather, connect, and stay safe at the beach.All consents are now in place, a construction company has been appointed, and $5 million in cornerstone funding has been secured from Auckland Council, Surf Life Saving NZ, and Foundation North.Local business G.J. Gardner Homes Rodney East has also led a strong fundraising effort—but more support is still needed to start construction by March 2026.If you haven’t yet seen the fabulous walkthrough video on YouTube, now’s the perfect time.Key naming rights and sponsorship opportunities remain open, including for the lifesaving operations building and first aid room.Once built, the Hub will offer enhanced beach safety, better access to emergency services, and flexible space for community use, events, and meetings.However, during construction, access to parts of the Surf Club Reserve will be limited.The new building’s location—closer to the road—will also change the layout of green spaces and parking within the reserve.To learn more or offer support, visit orewasurflifesavingcommunityhub.co.nz, or contact Andrea May on 021 170 1838.Together, the community can make this long-envisioned facility a reality.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

The Warkworth to Te Hana highway project has taken a major step forward, with NZ Transport Agency (NZTA) opening registrations of interest last Friday.This marks the first stage in the procurement process for Section 1 of the Northland Corridor, a Road of National Significance designed to boost safety, resilience, and connectivity between Auckland and Northland.The 26km, four-lane highway will extend the new Pūhoi to Warkworth motorway north to Te Hana.It forms part of a 100km strategic route connecting Warkworth and Whangārei.The protected route travels west of Warkworth, east of both Wellsford and Te Hana, before reconnecting with State Highway 1 near Waimanu Road.NZTA says the project will unlock economic growth, improve freight efficiency, and make travel safer and faster for all road users.“This is a major milestone for Northland’s transport network,” says Derek Robertson, NZTA Northland Corridor Programme Director.“It will improve travel, safety, and freight links to Auckland and the wider Upper North Island.”Project Highlights850m twin-bore tunnel through Dome ValleyThree interchanges at Warkworth, Wellsford, and Te HanaRemoval of nearly 1,000 heavy vehicles per day from SH1 through Wellsford and Te HanaReduced congestion through Wellsford’s main streetFaster, safer travel between Warkworth, Wellsford, and Te HanaImproved road geometry and gradients for safer journeysStronger freight links supporting economic growth and productivityA resilient alternative to the current SH1 routeImage supplied by NZTA.For Coasties, this means safer, quicker trips north—whether heading away for a weekend or transporting goods.The project promises less heavy traffic on SH1 and improved connections for Warkworth and Wellsford town centres through well-located interchanges.The project will be delivered through a Public Private Partnership (PPP).The current Registration of Interest process is the first step, followed by a formal Expression of Interest process before the end of March 2025.A Request for Proposal (RFP) will then be issued in mid-2025 for up to three shortlisted bidders.A preferred bidder is expected to be announced in early 2026, with the contract finalised by mid-2026. Detailed design and construction are set to start later that year.NZTA is also advancing plans for the other sections of the Northland Corridor—Te Hana to Port Marsden Highway, and Port Marsden Highway to Whangārei—aiming to deliver faster, safer, and more resilient transport connections across the region.“This project is about unlocking Northland’s potential,” says Robertson.“It will bring long-term benefits for communities, businesses, and New Zealand’s wider transport network.”For Hibiscus Coast locals, it’s one step closer to smoother, safer travel and improved freight routes north.See the video below.Got a local story?We’d love to hear it! Send your tips to [email protected]

The world’s toughest team sport is returning to Auckland.The Ocean Race will make its 12th stopover in New Zealand during its 2027 edition, bringing global attention and a major economic boost to the “City of Sails”.The race village will set up in Auckland’s Viaduct Harbour for a two-week festival in March 2027. Thousands of visitors are expected to line the waterfront to witness the high-performance yachts and world-class sailors up close.The stopover marks a nearly 50-year connection between Auckland and The Ocean Race, which first arrived here in 1977. Since then, it’s become part of the city’s maritime identity.Kiwi legends like Sir Peter Blake and Grant Dalton, and more recently Peter Burling and Blair Tuke, have cemented New Zealand’s reputation in offshore sailing.The Government is investing up to NZD 4 million from its Major Events Fund to support the Auckland stopover.Minister for Auckland Simeon Brown says the event will showcase New Zealand to the world while boosting the economy.“The two-week stopover is expected to attract over 2,500 international visitors,” he says.“They’re predicted to spend around NZD 20 million.”Repairs and refits to boats will also bring money into the marine industry. In 2018, the Auckland race village attracted half a million visitors. Organisers hope 2027 will bring a similar crowd.William Thomas, Managing Director of 18K Sports, the delivery partner for the event, says,“We’re focused on delivering a free and inclusive festival where the public can get up close to the high-performance foiling yachts and crews.”The Auckland stopover is one of the key milestones in the race. It is the only Southern Ocean port on the route, which starts in Alicante, Spain, and finishes in Amaala on the Red Sea.Beyond the racing, The Ocean Race’s Learning Programme will partner with New Zealand schools. The aim is to build ocean literacy and inspire young people to protect and restore ocean health.The Ocean Live Park on Auckland’s waterfront will feature family-friendly events, live entertainment, and sustainability-focused activities—all free to attend.For Coasties keen to catch the action, this is shaping up to be a must-visit event on the Hibiscus Coast calendar.Got a local story?We’d love to hear it! Send your tips to [email protected]

The Government formally opened Registrations of Interest for the first stage of the Northland Expressway at last week's NZ Infrastructure Investment Summit, Transport Minister Chris Bishop announced.“Connecting Northland to the Auckland region through a resilient, safe and efficient new expressway will unlock economic growth, boost productivity and drive higher living standards for Northlanders and Aucklanders," said Minister Bishop.Minister Bishop highlighted the success of the Waikato Expressway, delivered by the last National-led Government, as a "game changer" for the Waikato region and noted the similar transformational potential of the Northland Expressway to boost jobs and growth.“The upper North Island is the economic powerhouse of New Zealand. Northland, Auckland, Waikato, and Bay of Plenty collectively account for 53.7 per cent of New Zealand’s population (2.7 million people), and 55.5 per cent of GDP ($215 billion). This isn’t just an investment into Northland - it’s an investment into the broader upper North Island area,” Bishop explained.The first stage of the project, from Warkworth to Te Hana, was confirmed as a 26km four-lane expressway connected to the new Pūhoi to Warkworth expressway. Map of the proposed route.The indicative design included an 850m twin bore tunnel in the Dome Valley and interchanges at Warkworth, Wellsford, and Te Hana. Being the most advanced section in terms of designation, consents, and property acquisition, it would resolve resilience challenges in the Dome Valley and enable early construction.NZTA had conducted extensive domestic and international market engagement, resulting in significant global interest. Cabinet approved NZTA to advance procurement via a Public-Private Partnership (PPP), starting immediately with the Registration of Interest process. Registered parties would be invited to submit a formal Expression of Interest (EOI), followed by a Request for Proposal (RFP) in mid-2025. A preferred bidder was expected to be announced in early 2026, with the PPP contract finalised by mid-year.Detailed design and construction for the Warkworth to Te Hana section were expected to start in late 2026, with completion anticipated around 2034. The Northland Expressway would utilise the Fast-track Approvals Act and recent amendments to the Public Works Act for critical infrastructure.Watch the video“Today is a great milestone for going for growth in Northland. This investment will not only unlock Northland’s economic potential but also provide long-term opportunities for the infrastructure sector, helping to build a stronger, more resilient supply chain for New Zealand,” said Bishop.Got a local story?We’d love to hear it! Send your tips to [email protected]

Coasties, with Auckland entering its busiest travel period, commuters can expect increased traffic on the roads and packed buses, trains, and ferries. As offices, universities, and schools are back in full swing, getting to work or study on time requires a bit of extra planning. Whether you’re driving or taking public transport, Auckland Transport (AT) has some essential tips to help you manage your journey this March.Simon Buxton, AT's Director of Customer and Network Performance, advises drivers to plan ahead and allow extra time for their journeys. With thousands of vehicles on the road, patience is key.“You’ll be sharing the roads with hundreds of thousands of others,” Buxton explains. “Check traffic updates online before you head out and consider alternate routes to avoid congestion on the motorways and main arterial roads.”Car-pooling is another suggestion to ease the burden on Auckland’s roads. “If possible, travel with friends or colleagues to access T2 or T3 lanes and cut down on your travel time,” Buxton says. And for those who are keen on an alternative mode of transport, cycling is a great option, especially with Auckland’s favourable weather and cycle-friendly infrastructure.With demand for public transport expected to spike, AT has made several key adjustments to ensure buses, trains, and ferries can handle the increased volume. Rachel Cara, AT's Group Manager of Public Transport Operations, highlights the preparations in place.“We’ve been planning for this busy period since March last year and have made permanent changes to improve capacity,” says Cara. “We’ve added additional buses and increased bus sizes on key routes, so we are ready to handle the demand.”Public transport will be at its busiest during peak hours (7 am–9 am and 3 pm–6 pm), with Wednesdays typically being the busiest day.Despite the surge in passengers, Cara remains confident that Auckland's network can handle the load.To help ease congestion on both roads and public transport, AT asks commuters to stay patient and considerate.For drivers, Buxton advises being cautious and understanding of the heavy traffic. On public transport, Cara encourages passengers to be mindful of space. “If you’re standing on a busy bus or train, please move down as far as possible to make room for others,” she suggests. “Also, avoid taking up a seat with your bag or sitting in the aisle seat if the window seat is free.”Cara also encourages passengers to use contactless payment or an AT HOP card when tagging on and off. This helps AT track passenger numbers, make adjustments to services, and improve capacity management.By planning ahead and being considerate of others, Coasties can contribute to a smoother and more efficient commute during this busy time.Have a story to share from your neighbourhood? We’d love to hear from you! Send your news tips and stories to [email protected]

Coasties can look forward to a busy year ahead for the Penlink project, with the construction crew returning from their well-deserved break on Monday, 6 January 2025.The team has made significant progress this year, achieving several milestones. Some of the highlights include:780,000 cubic metres of earth moved295 metres of network drainage pipes installed1,216 metres of pipe culverts installedOver 3,000 cubic metres of concrete poured for the Wēiti River Bridge piers and abutmentDuck Creek Road Bridge beams placed, deck poured and barriers installedTo see the progress firsthand, watch the December 2024 aerial flyover of the entire project.Have a story to share?Contact [email protected]

Locals and travellers alike will enjoy a fresh take on Air New Zealand’s in-flight safety as Kiwi basketball star Steven Adams stars in the airline’s 23rd safety video, Every Point Counts.Known for his powerful on-court skills, Adams joins a group of young New Zealanders in a friendly game of basketball, set against some of New Zealand’s scenic coastal and urban backdrops.The video opens at the picturesque Orewa beach, showcasing New Zealand’s Pōhutukawa trees and sparkling waters.It then transitions to a vibrant outdoor court, where Adams encounters a group of kids who are thrilled as he effortlessly lands a full-court shot.The scene quickly builds, shifting from a beachside game to a stadium setting as Adams’ friendly competition with the young players continues.Air New Zealand’s Chief Executive Greg Foran expressed excitement over Adams’ participation, noting his inspiring journey from Rotorua to the global basketball stage as a fitting example for the video’s theme.“We’re thrilled to have Kiwi icon Steven Adams join the Air New Zealand safety video whānau,” Foran shared.“His rise from Rotorua to international basketball has inspired fans to chase their dreams, making him a perfect fit.”Foran added that the video’s approach aims to balance safety with entertainment, a signature feature for Air New Zealand.“An engaging safety video is what our customers expect, and basketball gave us the perfect angle for fun, interactive content,” he said.Observant basketball fans will enjoy subtle nods to the sport, including references to LeBron James and New Zealand’s growing enthusiasm for basketball.The new safety video debuts as the holiday season approaches, promising a memorable experience for Air New Zealand’s passengers on upcoming flights.Watch the video.

Coasties have come together to support a community-led mowing initiative at Gulf Harbour Country Club (GHCC), with the project officially kicking off on Monday morning, 21 October.This effort, spearheaded by a small team of volunteers, aims to maintain the club’s grounds and is backed by donations from local businesses.While KWGS is not directly involved in the mowing itself, they have played a vital role in coordinating resources and developing an action plan for the operation.The group has been instrumental in gathering volunteers and is overseeing the collection of donations to cover the mowers’ operational expenses.“We’re so grateful for the support we’ve received from locals,” said the Secretary of KWGS.“Without the help of the community and local businesses, this wouldn’t have been possible.”So far, 30 volunteers have stepped forward to assist in the clean-up of the course grounds.Organisers have plans to provide video instructions to volunteers by the evening of Monday, 28 October.Those still interested in helping are encouraged to reach out via email to register.For those wishing to contribute financially, KWGS is currently accepting donations on behalf of the mowing group, ensuring that all operational costs are covered.Donations can be made via bank transfer or credit card through their official page.