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Aucklanders, we want to know: How are you feeling about the current property market?
New Zealand homeowners are now more likely to sell at a loss than at any time since 2013, and if you’re in Auckland or Wellington, the odds are even higher.
But there is a silver lining: buyers are still in a strong position when it comes to negotiating prices.
So we’re curious…
How … View moreNew Zealand homeowners are now more likely to sell at a loss than at any time since 2013, and if you’re in Auckland or Wellington, the odds are even higher.
But there is a silver lining: buyers are still in a strong position when it comes to negotiating prices.
So we’re curious…
How are you feeling about the current property market?
If you’re keen to dive into the details, Deborah Morris breaks down all the latest insights.
Discover Waterford Village
At Waterford, life feels wonderfully effortless. Enjoy modern apartment living, peaceful harbour views and a warm, welcoming community. With cafés, boardwalks and the ferry close by, everything you love is within easy reach. Discover a lifestyle that brings calm, connection and a real sense of … View moreAt Waterford, life feels wonderfully effortless. Enjoy modern apartment living, peaceful harbour views and a warm, welcoming community. With cafés, boardwalks and the ferry close by, everything you love is within easy reach. Discover a lifestyle that brings calm, connection and a real sense of home.
Appeal for information following fatal crash: Tāneatua
Police investigating a fatal crash in Tāneatua are seeking further information from members of the public who witnessed the crash, or any movements leading up to the crash, to assist with our enquiries.
Prior to the crash, Police can confirm the red Honda Accord was observed travelling on Reid … View morePolice investigating a fatal crash in Tāneatua are seeking further information from members of the public who witnessed the crash, or any movements leading up to the crash, to assist with our enquiries.
Prior to the crash, Police can confirm the red Honda Accord was observed travelling on Reid Road in excess of the speed limit.
A Police vehicle travelling the other direction observed the vehicle at speed, however was unable to locate the vehicle as it travelled towards White Pine Bush Road.
Police believe there were two other vehicles near or on the Pekatahi Bridge at the time of the crash, and we’d like to speak to the occupants of those vehicles to understand what they saw.
Additionally, we’re still seeking information from anybody who saw a red Honda Accord travelling in and around Tāneatua between 5:30pm and 6pm on Tuesday 2 December.
If you have information, please contact Police via 105, either over the phone or online, referencing file number 251202/5566.
Upper Hutt Santa Parade Returns!
Mark your calendars! The Upper Hutt Santa Parade is back this Christmas. Come join the fun as the community’s favourite Christmas movie comes alive in a magical display of floats, music, and festive cheer.
Date: Sunday 14 December 2025
Time: 3PM | Rain or shine
Location: Main Street, Upper … View moreMark your calendars! The Upper Hutt Santa Parade is back this Christmas. Come join the fun as the community’s favourite Christmas movie comes alive in a magical display of floats, music, and festive cheer.
Date: Sunday 14 December 2025
Time: 3PM | Rain or shine
Location: Main Street, Upper Hutt
Poll: Have you ever had a Healthy Homes inspection done where you live?
Conflicting Healthy Homes inspection reports are raising concerns about the consistency of standards meant to ensure rental properties are safe and liveable.
In one recent case, a Cambridge rental property underwent two inspections within a week, with significantly different outcomes. The first,… View moreConflicting Healthy Homes inspection reports are raising concerns about the consistency of standards meant to ensure rental properties are safe and liveable.
In one recent case, a Cambridge rental property underwent two inspections within a week, with significantly different outcomes. The first, arranged by tenant Sara Lewis, identified multiple issues including mould, vermin, and ventilation concerns. A second inspection, arranged by property managers Harcourts, just six days later, found little to criticise.
Have you ever had a Healthy Homes inspection done where you live? Tell us your reasons in the comments (adding NFP if you don't want your words used in print).
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50% Yes
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50% No
Bestsellers: A classic bakery lunch
Tamahere Bakery, 65 Devine Rd, Tamahere
Sausage rolls, pies, brownies, custard slice and much more - there’s no shortage of classic bakery goodies on offer at Tamahere Bakery.
Owner Rotha Kann has been running bakeries since he graduated with a degree in e-commerce over twenty years ago.
Poll: Should we be giving the green light to new mining projects? 💰🌲
The Environmental Protection Authority announced this week that a proposed mine in Central Otago (near Cromwell) is about to enter its fast-track assessment process. A final decision could come within six months, and if it’s approved, construction might start as early as mid-2026.
We want to … View moreThe Environmental Protection Authority announced this week that a proposed mine in Central Otago (near Cromwell) is about to enter its fast-track assessment process. A final decision could come within six months, and if it’s approved, construction might start as early as mid-2026.
We want to know: Should mining projects like this move ahead?
Keen to dig deeper? Mike White has the scoop.
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53.1% Yes
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46.9% No
Large BBQ with full gas canister
Hi,
I no longer have use for this. Please message me on 021 154 0735 to pick up.
Thanks
Cindy
‘Tis the season to not get scammed ...
As Christmas gift shopping moves increasingly online, scammers are ramping up their activity across the country.
Dunedin’s Investigation Support Unit is seeing more and more people fall victim to scams and other fraudulent activity, particularly on Facebook Marketplace.
There are a few ways… View moreAs Christmas gift shopping moves increasingly online, scammers are ramping up their activity across the country.
Dunedin’s Investigation Support Unit is seeing more and more people fall victim to scams and other fraudulent activity, particularly on Facebook Marketplace.
There are a few ways to avoid the scams and keep yourself safe doing online trades this holiday season, says Southern District Service Delivery Manager Senior Sergeant Dalton.
🔒 “A good first step when looking to purchase something on Marketplace is to check when the seller’s Facebook profile was created. If it’s very recent, there is a higher risk that they have just created this account for a one-off fake item.”
🔒 Another important step is to make sure the seller’s profile name and bank account name match up. “We’re seeing a lot of scammers claiming their bank account name is different because it belongs to their partner or family member - that’s a huge red flag."
🔒 “When you’re selling, never trust a screenshot anyone sends you showing that payment has been made. Check your own bank account to make sure a payment has gone through."
🔒 “Quite frankly, it’s best for all parties to agree to pay, or be paid, for items in cash and in-person. Ideally in a public place with CCTV coverage."
🔒 "If you’re buying a car, check Carjam.co.nz to see if it’s stolen or if there’s money owed on it.”
A reminder: Suspicious activity can be reported on 105
Making Hearing Easy in Kapiti
At Triton Hearing Kapiti, you’ll find us on Amohia Street in a spacious, welcoming clinic with easy flat-access parking. Our friendly team supports the Kapiti community, providing expert care in a relaxed, lounge-style environment.
From routine hearing checks to advanced solutions, we ensure … View moreAt Triton Hearing Kapiti, you’ll find us on Amohia Street in a spacious, welcoming clinic with easy flat-access parking. Our friendly team supports the Kapiti community, providing expert care in a relaxed, lounge-style environment.
From routine hearing checks to advanced solutions, we ensure every visit is simple and personalised. We love seeing clients reconnect with the sounds and moments they’ve been missing, whether it’s a loved one’s voice, music, or everyday life. Family-friendly and community focused, our Kapiti clinic makes hearing easy and enjoyable for everyone.
IRD error means incorrect tax for thousands
More than 4000 people have been affected by an Inland Revenue error that could have meant they paid the wrong amount of tax.
RNZ was contacted by a reader who said he had noticed the error when he went to finalise his tax return.
Inland Revenue now issues income tax assessments each year for most… View moreMore than 4000 people have been affected by an Inland Revenue error that could have meant they paid the wrong amount of tax.
RNZ was contacted by a reader who said he had noticed the error when he went to finalise his tax return.
Inland Revenue now issues income tax assessments each year for most New Zealanders, which tells them whether they have paid the right amount of tax.
The man said he and his wife would fill out an IR3 every year. “Nowadays the income, tax and imputation credits are automatically filled in, whether that be from investments in bonds, equities or bank accounts.
“Having always done this myself longhand, I still do this and thank goodness I did.”
He said, between them, they would have lost about $20,000 in credits if he had not noticed the problem.
“I found that my summary of income was correct; income, RWT, imputation credits. But when this was automatically input into the IR3 form, the imputation credits were only 50% of what they should have been.”
Inland Revenue said it had looked into the issue and identified a problem with how returns in the myIR system were pre-populating imputation tax credits for people who received dividends with imputation credits from jointly owned shareholdings.
“We have fixed this so any returns started in myIR from November 26 will not have this issue.
“Customers were able to amend the figure before filing the return; however, we have identified that approximately 4500 customers appear to have filed the return without changing the figure – so with the incorrect pre-populated imputation credits.
“We are currently working through the best way to amend these returns for the affected customers. Once we identify the easiest way to correct this error, [we] will be contacting those affected customers.”
Inland Revenue said it believed the amount involved was an average of about $300 per person, “all in the taxpayer’s favour. Late next week we should have a clearer picture of the exact number of customers and tax involved as we implement a fix.”
Deloitte tax partner Robyn Walker said anyone who had not noticed the problem could have paid more tax than they needed to, or received a larger refund than they should have.
“It’s interesting that the income and tax credits aren’t kept together when the amounts are halved for spouses – I would have expected that the income and credits would have both been wrong.”
She said it was a problem that a system that was meant to be able to be relied upon by taxpayers was not working correctly.
“In the scheme of the total number of people who might invest in shares receiving dividends, it’s possibly not a big error population; however, the existence of any error in pre-population is concerning. One of the risks associated with income and tax credit amounts being pre-populated is that there is a natural tendency to just accept what is there if it seems ‘about right’ rather than taking the next step of validating that the information is actually correct against source documents. It would seem that this is what those 4500 individuals have done.”
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Riccarton landlord’s lucky catch!
A local landlord in Riccarton https ://www.enviroflo.co.nz/ |booked what was meant to be a simple, routine CCTV drain check, | just a bit of peace of mind for a tidy, well-kept rental. But under that neat garden and solid paths, our camera told a different story…
We found several cracks and … View moreA local landlord in Riccarton https ://www.enviroflo.co.nz/ |booked what was meant to be a simple, routine CCTV drain check, | just a bit of peace of mind for a tidy, well-kept rental. But under that neat garden and solid paths, our camera told a different story…
We found several cracks and offsets in the old ceramic drain lines, likely hidden damage from the 2010–2011 quakes. Nothing too dramatic yet, but it was only a matter of time before things got messy.
Luckily, the property still had an EQC (now Natural Hazards Commission) claim on record. Our team stepped in to help the owner with the process, and before long, the repairs were fully approved and sorted at no extra cost to them.
We replaced the damaged sections, tidied everything up, and left both the tenant and landlord relieved they’d caught the problem early.
Moral of the story: sometimes a “routine check” can save you a lot of stress (and cash) down the line!
Have you claimed your free drain check with Enviroflo yet?
Turn Wallpaper Scraps into Beautiful Blossoms
These blossoms made from Resene wallpaper left over after decorating will mean your décor will be blooming gorgeous, no matter the season. Find out how to create your own wallpaper flowers with these easy step by step instructions.
A dream retirement at The Helier
At The Helier, retirement feels like a fresh beginning. Light-filled modern apartments, thoughtfully designed spaces and a warm, welcoming community create a place where you can live well and stay connected. Enjoy a lifestyle that feels easy, uplifting and entirely your own, right in the heart of … View moreAt The Helier, retirement feels like a fresh beginning. Light-filled modern apartments, thoughtfully designed spaces and a warm, welcoming community create a place where you can live well and stay connected. Enjoy a lifestyle that feels easy, uplifting and entirely your own, right in the heart of the Bays.
A riddle to start the festive season 🌲🎁🌟
I'm a fruit. If you take away my first letter, I'm a crime. If you take away my first two letters, I'm an animal. If you take away my first and last letter, I'm a form of music. What am I?
Do you think you know the answer? Simply 'Like' this post if you know the … View moreI'm a fruit. If you take away my first letter, I'm a crime. If you take away my first two letters, I'm an animal. If you take away my first and last letter, I'm a form of music. What am I?
Do you think you know the answer? Simply 'Like' this post if you know the answer and the big reveal will be posted in the comments at 2pm on the day!
Want to stop seeing these in your newsfeed?
Head here and hover on the Following button on the top right of the page (and it will show Unfollow) and then click it. If it is giving you the option to Follow, then you've successfully unfollowed the Riddles page.
Beautiful Living Made Affordable
Make your house a home with TSB Living — proudly serving Auckland and all of New Zealand with affordable furniture, home décor, and lifestyle essentials. From comfy couches to stylish outdoor sets, we’ve got what you need to live beautifully for less. Join thousands of happy Kiwis who trust … View moreMake your house a home with TSB Living — proudly serving Auckland and all of New Zealand with affordable furniture, home décor, and lifestyle essentials. From comfy couches to stylish outdoor sets, we’ve got what you need to live beautifully for less. Join thousands of happy Kiwis who trust TSB Living for quality and value.
Discover something new for every room — delivered straight to your door!
Auckland, why are we so excited about a new store? 🚗🛒
I think we’ve all seen the traffic notices and headlines about the new IKEA by now!
So here’s the question: why do we get so excited when a new store opens? Convenience? Curiosity? A reason for a weekend outing? We’d love to hear your thoughts!
Keen for an update? The Post has you … View moreI think we’ve all seen the traffic notices and headlines about the new IKEA by now!
So here’s the question: why do we get so excited when a new store opens? Convenience? Curiosity? A reason for a weekend outing? We’d love to hear your thoughts!
Keen for an update? The Post has you covered
Discover Life at Awatere Village
Awatere is a vibrant, modern village where friendships are easy and everyday living feels inspired. Enjoy beautifully designed apartments, spaces to gather, and a community that supports doing more of what you love. From social clubs to quiet moments, it’s all here when you want it.
Food safety – tips for summer
1. Buy food that is safe
Check the ‘use by’ date to make sure food is fresh when you buy it. Avoid food with damaged packaging and buy fruit and vegetables that are slightly unripe or only just ripe – especially if you don't plan to eat them straight away.
2. Gathered food
Always wash… View more1. Buy food that is safe
Check the ‘use by’ date to make sure food is fresh when you buy it. Avoid food with damaged packaging and buy fruit and vegetables that are slightly unripe or only just ripe – especially if you don't plan to eat them straight away.
2. Gathered food
Always wash food that you or others have gathered, such as pūha or watercress. If you gather kai moana or seafood, check that the place you are collecting from is clean and free of pollution.
3. Keep hands and surfaces clean
Wash your hands before and after you handle raw foods. Make sure benchtops, cooking tools and barbecues are clean before you use them. When you prepare the meal, use separate utensils, plates and other tools to handle raw and cooked foods. After the meal, clean your benchtops and cooking tools well.
4. Rinse all fruits and veg
Rinse all of your fruit and vegetables under cold running water and then dry them with a clean cloth to help remove dirt and bacteria.
5. Preparing chicken
Chicken is the main offender for spreading serious tummy bugs. It needs careful handling when it's raw. You might be great at remembering to wash your hands before and after touching raw chicken, but do you get carried away and wash the chicken before you prepare it? This common practice is a big no-no. Washing chicken in your kitchen sink can lead to contamination of your work surfaces, cloths and cooking utensils. Keep a special chopping board for preparing chicken and don't use that board for chopping up fruit and vegetables. Don't use the same knife to cut up chicken and other foods until it's been well washed.
6. Keep cold foods cold
Set your fridge temperature between 2°C and 4°C. Most harmful bacteria cannot grow at low temperatures.
Keep cold dishes like salads and puddings in the fridge until you’re ready to eat them. Store raw meats and seafood in the fridge until right before you cook them. Cover them and place them on the fridge’s bottom shelf so their juices can’t drip onto other food. Keep meat products away from ready-to-eat food such as fruit and vegetables. Other meat and seafood (kai moana) are sources of bacterial contamination, not just chicken.
If you’re eating outdoors, use an icepack or chilly bin to keep food cold.
7. Fully cook meats and seafood
Cook chicken, mince and sausages right through, and cook pork and poultry until the juices run clear. Use a meat thermometer to check that your meat has been cooked to a safe temperature – at least 75°C in the thickest part of the meat.
You can take a vacuum-packed cooked ham straight from the fridge to the table. But if you like to glaze your ham and serve it hot, cook it at 160°C for 20 minutes per kilogram. You want the inside to reach at least 60°C – use a meat thermometer to check the temperature.
Eating cold ham of any kind when you are pregnant can come with the risk of a serious infection called listeria, which is harmful to the baby. Instead, cook or reheat ham until it’s piping hot (over 70°C) and eat it straight away. Learn more about how to eat safely when you're pregnant(external link).
8. Cover all dishes
Cover any dishes that are sitting out on the benchtop or table to protect your food from flies, ants and other bugs. Don’t leave them out of the fridge for more than 2 hours. Or store them in the fridge while your guests enjoy their first serving, then bring them back out when it’s time for the next course. If you think that food has been left out of the fridge for 4 or more hours, it is better to throw it out than risk getting sick. If in doubt, don't eat it!
9. Store leftovers carefully
Refrigerate or freeze leftover food within 2 hours after it was cooked, sealed in a clean, airtight container. You can keep a cooked cured ham in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. Cover it with a clean damp tea towel and change the towel every day.
Reheat leftovers until they are steaming hot (over 75°C), stirring well so they heat all the way through.
10. Food safety in pregnancy
When you're pregnant (hapū) you have lower immunity which puts you at greater risk of food-related illnesses such as listeriosis and toxoplasmosis. These can be dangerous for you and your child. To be safe:
wash and dry your hands carefully before handling food
clean, cook and chill foods
store leftover food in the fridge and don't eat them after 2 days
avoid high-risk foods(external link).
11. Most importantly
If you've been unwell or have any symptoms of sickness, leave the food preparation and serving to others. Don't risk passing on your germs to your whānau.
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‘Tis the Season to Show Off Your Trees Sparkle, NZ!
With Christmas fast approaching and trees beginning to twinkle in homes across New Zealand, we’re on the hunt for NZ’s Most Loved Christmas Tree!
Whether it’s bursting with colour, elegantly minimal, or filled with sentimental touches from years past, we want to see how Kiwis are spreading… View moreWith Christmas fast approaching and trees beginning to twinkle in homes across New Zealand, we’re on the hunt for NZ’s Most Loved Christmas Tree!
Whether it’s bursting with colour, elegantly minimal, or filled with sentimental touches from years past, we want to see how Kiwis are spreading Christmas magic this season.
And now for the showstopper... 🌟
One tree will rise above them all, capturing the most public votes and the title of NZ’s Most Loved Christmas Tree 2025, along with the iPhone 17 Pro in Cosmic Orange, this year’s ultimate Christmas prize. 🎁🎄
To spread the cheer even further, four lucky trees will be chosen as Santa’s Lucky Trees, each receiving a $200 Space General Gift Voucher, the perfect way to add extra sparkle this season. 🎅🎁
Need a tree first? Explore our beautiful range here and start your Christmas magic!
📅 Public voting opens: 10 November 2025
⏳ Entries close: 17 December 2025
🎄 Winners unwrapped before Christmas — so strike a pose and share your festive masterpiece!
Make the holidays easier this year!
We’ve pulled together a few clever Christmas hacks thanks to Ryman resident, Sullen - simple ideas to save time and stress so you can enjoy more of the festive fun.
A few favourites:
- Hang tree lights vertically for an even glow
- Use reusable gift bags for quick, eco-friendly wrapping
- … View moreWe’ve pulled together a few clever Christmas hacks thanks to Ryman resident, Sullen - simple ideas to save time and stress so you can enjoy more of the festive fun.
A few favourites:
- Hang tree lights vertically for an even glow
- Use reusable gift bags for quick, eco-friendly wrapping
- Prep food ahead to keep Christmas Day relaxed
Click read more for the full list of tips.
Donate plasma at 65 Constellation Drive
The plasma in your blood can help treat over 50 different illnesses including cancer, kidney disease and severe burns, and make up to 11 lifesaving products. But demand is outpacing the supply. Luckily there’s a new place to donate plasma. NZ Blood’s new donor centre at 65 Constellation Drive … View moreThe plasma in your blood can help treat over 50 different illnesses including cancer, kidney disease and severe burns, and make up to 11 lifesaving products. But demand is outpacing the supply. Luckily there’s a new place to donate plasma. NZ Blood’s new donor centre at 65 Constellation Drive on Auckland’s North Shore is now open.
Book now to donate at nzblood.co.nz/plasma, download the NZ Blood App or call 0800 448 325
Is it cheaper to pay a mortgage, or rent?
House prices are down, but rent rises have flattened.
In both markets, people looking for a home have the power.
So is it better, financially, to own or rent?
That's a question that ANZ economist Matt Galt has been pondering.
He said how the cost of renting compared to home ownership was a… View moreHouse prices are down, but rent rises have flattened.
In both markets, people looking for a home have the power.
So is it better, financially, to own or rent?
That's a question that ANZ economist Matt Galt has been pondering.
He said how the cost of renting compared to home ownership was a big driver of house prices.
"The balance between the running costs of owning a home over time - interest, council rates, insurance - and rents is one of the main anchors for house prices, to which they gravitate."
When the costs of owning a home are low compared to renting, both owner-occupiers and investors are more likely to buy, bidding up prices.
But when ownership costs are high relative to rents, house prices come under pressure.
To compare the cost of owning versus renting, he used the interest cost on a home loan with a 50 percent loan-to-value ratio at a five-year fixed rate, plus council rates, insurance, maintenance and a small buffer for other costs.
"What you often find is when you first buy a house, you have quite a big mortgage, like 80 percent loan-to-value for example, and when you have a big mortgage, the cost of owning a house will typically be quite a bit more than renting. But over the full time you own that house, hopefully you'll be able to repay principal and the LVR will come down and what we find is that the cost of renting and the cost of owning are about equal when the loan is 50 percent of the house value and that might be the experience over a number of years for some people."
In Auckland, the median rent is about $650 a week. Someone with a 20 percent deposit buying a house for $900,000 - the median price for first-home buyers in the city - would pay about $890 a week on a five-year fixed term.
But someone with a mortgage of $500,000 would be paying less than $620 as week.
He said between 2022 and 2024 high interest rates and other costs put downward pressure on house prices. At that point, it was a lot more expensive to own a house than to rent one.
But between 2019 and 2021, home ownership running costs were well below rents, which prompted some tenants to think they might as well buy if they could.
"I think a lot of people when they go to buy a house they'll look at what they might be paying in rent versus what they'll pay in mortgage and then they'll add on perhaps council rates or insurance and other costs as they learn more about the types of housing they are wanting to buy. If owning a house does look very cheap, like when interest rates were low in 2019 and 2020, it would really encourage people to jump into the market and they did in large numbers despite prices being very high at that time," Galt said.
"I think it does shape people's housing choices and particularly for investors as well, who will be quite carefully weighing up the rent income they receive versus the cost of owning a house."
Things are now back in balance compared to where they have generally been over history.
"Home ownership running costs have since eased as interest rates have fallen and overall are now more or less back in line with their historical relationship with rents.
"Interest is the dominant cost and also the main source of variation," he said. "The home ownership running costs proxy has dropped over the past month due to a sizeable fall in fixed mortgage rates over October."
But the story is nuanced.
"Changes in interest costs reflect not only changes in interest rates but also changes in house prices, as the proxy is for buying a house now. Over 2021, both were rising, which explains the particularly sharp increase in home ownership costs over that period."
Galt said several changes over the past year had brought ownership costs and rents back in balance.
"Home ownership costs have decreased as both house prices and interest rates have fallen, but this has been partly offset by increases in other ownership costs such as council rates and insurance. Rents have fallen a little, meaning home ownership costs have had to fall further to close the gap.
"The combination of falling rents and high council rates and insurance costs has been a significant drag on house prices in recent years, which has dampened the impact of falling interest rates," he said,
He said it was likely that five-year mortgage interest rates would rise a bit from where they are now through next year, but the comparison between renting and owning was not likely to change a lot.
"Our forecasts anticipate home ownership costs and rents staying in balance over the next couple of years, which points to broad stability in house prices, potentially with a modest increase in prices as the economy experiences a cyclical recovery next year.
"The current balance of these costs and benefits of home ownership certainly doesn't suggest that house prices are likely to race away.
"Overall, the market's looking quite well balanced at the moment. We are expecting the ongoing costs of home ownership and rents to stay roughly around balance over the next couple of years and that just reflects interest rates staying relatively low.
"We do have them ticking up in our forecasts towards the end of 2026 but that's very much a placeholder at this stage. The broad story is interest rates staying down for a while and house prices only increasing at a gradual rate next year as the economy recovers."
Council rates were likely to rise at a slower rate, he said.
"They increased 12 percent a couple of years ago, that's dropped to 9 percent and then we expect them to keep easing but still going up."
===================================================
Discover life at The Bayview
At The Bayview, stunning views and relaxed, resort-style living set the tone for every day. Light-filled apartments, friendly neighbours and quality amenities create a lifestyle that feels uplifting and beautifully easy. Make the most of Tauranga’s sunshine in a place designed for comfort and … View moreAt The Bayview, stunning views and relaxed, resort-style living set the tone for every day. Light-filled apartments, friendly neighbours and quality amenities create a lifestyle that feels uplifting and beautifully easy. Make the most of Tauranga’s sunshine in a place designed for comfort and connection.
Chapter Book and Tea Shop Book Catalogue: Nov-Dec 2025
Nov-Dec 2025 Book Catalogue
📚 Just in time for some summer holiday reading, there are some great books including Callie Hart’s BRIMSTONE (Fae & Alchemy Series), Ana Huang’s THE DEFENDER (Gods of the Game Series), Keri Lake’s ELDRITCH (Eating Woods Trilogy), Stephanie Laurens’s THE … View moreNov-Dec 2025 Book Catalogue
📚 Just in time for some summer holiday reading, there are some great books including Callie Hart’s BRIMSTONE (Fae & Alchemy Series), Ana Huang’s THE DEFENDER (Gods of the Game Series), Keri Lake’s ELDRITCH (Eating Woods Trilogy), Stephanie Laurens’s THE CURSE OF ILL-GOTTEN GAINS (The Casebook of Barnaby Adair Series), Lauren Palphreyman’s THE WOLF KING (Wolf King Series), Meghan Quinn’s MERRY CHRISTMAS, YOU FILTHY ANIMAL (How My Neighbour Stole Christmas Series), Leigh Rivers’ LITTLE STRANGER (Web of Silence Duology) and Nora Roberts’ THE SEVEN RINGS (Lost Bride Trilogy) and more. Happy holidays and enjoy your reading!
Check out the catalogue at
chapter.co.nz...
NB. Please see p.2 for the:
• Details of our CHRISTMAS SHOPPING DAY on Sat 13 Dec, our December trading hours, and our Christmas/New Year three-week closure
• Pre-order link for signed copies of Nalini Singh’s SUCH A PERFECT FAMILY
• Pre-order link for signed copies of Nalini Singh’s ARCHANGEL'S ETERNITY
• Details of the Auckland Romance Readers Book Club Monthly Meetings and Auckland Romance Readers Book Club Facebook Group.
For Enquiries or Orders:
✉️ info@chapter.co.nz ☎️ 09-6232319 📱 021-635027
NB. Chapter’s trading hours are Tue–Sun 10–4. We are CLOSED on Mondays, except 15 Dec and 22 Dec. We are CLOSED from 25 Dec and we reopen on 13 Jan.
#ChapterBookandTeaShop #Tea #TeaShop #Books #Bookshop #RomanceBookshop #RomanceFictionSpecialist #BiMonthlyBookCatalogue
Top cash paid !!!
Dead or alive we pay cash for any unwanted cars, Vans, Trucks, 4x4, and Ute's.
Call our free phone 0800 333 314 now for a free appraisal or text to 021 303 903
Locally owned and Operated
Hi
I am looking for a scaffolding to do painting inside my house at ThreeKings
Can anybody help me to find a suitable scaffolding company with reasonable charges
Regards
Crackerjack: your one stop Christmas shop!
Get ready to jingle all the bargains! Crackerjack’s Christmas range is bursting with sweet treats, chocolates, fun pressies, toys for the little ones (and furry friends!), plus festive décor, accessories, stocking stuffers and Secret Santa winners!
Whether you’re looking for gifting inspo … View moreGet ready to jingle all the bargains! Crackerjack’s Christmas range is bursting with sweet treats, chocolates, fun pressies, toys for the little ones (and furry friends!), plus festive décor, accessories, stocking stuffers and Secret Santa winners!
Whether you’re looking for gifting inspo or filling the trolley with bargains this festive season, you’ll find it all in store and online at Crackerjack.
Carols at the Kings
Enjoy festive performances from local schools, sing along to your favourite carols, and treat yourself with food from a great range of food trucks.
Bring a picnic blanket, gather your friends and whānau, and settle in for a joyful start to the festive season.
Three Kings Reserve, Mount Eden … View moreEnjoy festive performances from local schools, sing along to your favourite carols, and treat yourself with food from a great range of food trucks.
Bring a picnic blanket, gather your friends and whānau, and settle in for a joyful start to the festive season.
Three Kings Reserve, Mount Eden Road, Three Kings, Auckland
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When---Sunday 7 December 2025
5.30pm-7.30pm
Cost---Free
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Trusted Painters for Every Home
Hi neighbours!
At Graham’s Painters we bring 40+ years of experience, a friendly team of over 20+ full-time professionals, and a “get-it-done” attitude to every job big or small.
We specialise in interior/exterior painting, roof painting, house washing, decking, fencing, wallpapering, … View moreHi neighbours!
At Graham’s Painters we bring 40+ years of experience, a friendly team of over 20+ full-time professionals, and a “get-it-done” attitude to every job big or small.
We specialise in interior/exterior painting, roof painting, house washing, decking, fencing, wallpapering, and cedar weatherboards. We’re tidy, punctual, and perfect for busy families, non-DIYers, and retirees.
Discounts available for SuperGold Card holders
Serving all of Wellington, Hutt Valley & up to Plimmerton.
Message us today for a free quote, we’d love to help bring your home to life!
Warrant to arrest: Robin Martin
Police are working to locate Robin Dion Leslie Martin, who has a warrant for his arrest and is wanted by Police.
Robin, 52, is wanted in relation to a number of dishonestly offences and is known to frequent the wider Auckland, Waikato and Bay of Plenty regions.
It’s believed he is actively … View morePolice are working to locate Robin Dion Leslie Martin, who has a warrant for his arrest and is wanted by Police.
Robin, 52, is wanted in relation to a number of dishonestly offences and is known to frequent the wider Auckland, Waikato and Bay of Plenty regions.
It’s believed he is actively avoiding Police.
If you have seen Robin or have any information that may assist in locating him, please update us online now or call 105.
Please use the reference number 251002/1842.
Alternatively information can be provided anonymously to Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.
A warm welcome awaits here
If you’re looking for a place that feels friendly, peaceful, and connected, Kandahar Village might be just what you’re after. Set in central Masterton, our boutique retirement village offers independence with the comfort of knowing support is close if you need it. Residents love the relaxed … View moreIf you’re looking for a place that feels friendly, peaceful, and connected, Kandahar Village might be just what you’re after. Set in central Masterton, our boutique retirement village offers independence with the comfort of knowing support is close if you need it. Residents love the relaxed atmosphere, the sense of belonging, and the way neighbours really do become friends.
Priced from only $650k, with a 12-month monthly fee holiday and a $20,000 cash-back on settlement
Come for a cuppa and a look around - we’d love to meet you.
Wayne Brown unveils 7.9% Auckland rates increase to pay for City Rail Link running costs
The increase will cover the $235 million annual cost of operating the new underground rail service, and is the largest rate rise since Auckland Council was formed in 2010.
For the average household, already strained by the cost‑of‑living crisis, annual rates will climb from $4023 to $4341, a… View moreThe increase will cover the $235 million annual cost of operating the new underground rail service, and is the largest rate rise since Auckland Council was formed in 2010.
For the average household, already strained by the cost‑of‑living crisis, annual rates will climb from $4023 to $4341, a weekly cost of $83.
Auckland Mayor Wayne Brown’s rates announcement came shortly after Prime Minister Christopher Luxon confirmed at his post‑Cabinet press conference this afternoon, alongside Local Government Minister Simon Watts, that the Government will introduce a rates cap of 2% to 4% from January 2027. The cap excludes water charges and non-rate revenue such as fees and other charges.
“Ratepayers are fed up,” said Luxon, saying some communities had faced regular double-digit increases and the Government expected councils to demonstrate fiscal prudence.
Auckland’s proposed 7.9% rate increase is contained in Brown’s mayoral proposal for next year’s budget and is in line with the rate increases in the council’s long-term plan. After next year, rates are set to rise by 3.5% each year.
Brown said his proposal was focused on progressing and finishing what the council started last term – transport reform, governance improvement and value for money.
“This proposal sets direction for the year ahead – consolidating what we have achieved and focusing our resources on what matters most. It keeps faith with Aucklanders, maintains our contract with the community, and ensures we are ready for the next long-term plan [in 2027],” he said.
Brown acknowledged the 7.9% average household rates rise was higher than he would have liked, but said it reflected the costs of the City Rail Link, a project he has criticised for blowouts and delays, but now sees as vital to reinvigorating Auckland and driving economic growth.
The $235m bill to run the CRL includes maintenance costs, interest on debt to fund construction, depreciation, facilities such as new stations, track access charges from KiwiRail, and running more services.
As well as the proposed rate rise in the budget, there is a $50m budget gap that officers are developing options to address, and an extra $15m for the 21 local boards under a fairer funding review.
There is a savings target of $106m and asset sales of $34m, with Brown expressing disappointment at progress made in this area.
Brown said he expected the Local Government (Auckland Council) (Transport Governance) Amendment Bill to return control of Auckland Transport to the council would become law in March next year.
This would be followed by a six-month implementation period when Auckland Transport will become responsible for public transport, and the council will be responsible for transport planning matters and the road controlling authority.
“The decisions we make in the coming months will impact the daily lives of Aucklanders, who expect things to be better. If we get this right, we will deliver progressive and long-lasting improvements to transport in Auckland.
“Ultimately, I want to eliminate the dumb stuff that infuriates me and ratepayers,” said the mayor.
Brown reacted to the Government’s rates cap plan by questioning how Auckland would pay for things like the CLR.
“Putting a cap on rates isn’t going to solve anything. It will just defer it for a couple of years then ratepayers will be paying even more,” he told the Herald.
“Councils are faced with making decisions that involve significant investment and should not be restricted by government telling us what we can and can’t do.”
Last week, Transport Minister Chris Bishop, Auckland Minister Simeon Brown and the Auckland Mayor said the CRL would open to passengers in the second half of next year.
Two sources have told the Herald the opening date is set for September.
Auckland Transport director of public transport, Stacey van der Putten, said there was no set opening date but she was confident the new rail line would open in the second half of the year.
“We should be able to provide a tighter opening-date range in the coming months, but the opening date will ultimately be announced when a satisfactory level of testing, commissioning, and readiness has been demonstrated,” she said.
A Herald investigation in October found the council’s annual rates revenue has nearly doubled from $1.57b to $3b since it was formed in 2010.
Over that period, the typical household’s yearly rates rose by 85.4%, from $2025 to $3800 in the 2024-25 financial year. The average annual rate increase was 4.52%.
While the hefty rise in rates may surprise many, it coincided with 34% inflation, a 22% population increase, and major boosts in the council’s other revenue streams and infrastructure investment.
Council financial strategy manager Michael Burns said rate increases had averaged 2.16% a year above inflation, helping fund key priorities such as public transport, water quality, storm recovery and resilience, environmental initiatives and the response to Covid-19.
To keep rates as low as possible, he said, the council had reduced its reliance on rates revenue, from 49% of total income at the start of the Super City to about 35% today.
Councillors will consider the mayoral proposal on December 15 and it is to go out for public consultation in late February.
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Varicose Veins Slowing You Down?
New Zealands first dedicated Varicose Vein Clinic Specialising in Non-Surgical, walk in, walk out treatments No GP Referral Needed!
Don’t let painful, swollen, or unsightly veins affect your daily life. Whether you're dealing with throbbing aches, night cramps, swelling, or visible … View moreNew Zealands first dedicated Varicose Vein Clinic Specialising in Non-Surgical, walk in, walk out treatments No GP Referral Needed!
Don’t let painful, swollen, or unsightly veins affect your daily life. Whether you're dealing with throbbing aches, night cramps, swelling, or visible varicose veins, our expert team is here to help.
At The Vein Centre, we specialise exclusively in vein treatments, no distractions, no GP referral required, just fast, effective care tailored to you. Regain comfort and confidence in your legs with the latest minimally invasive treatments.
212 Wairau Road, Glenfield
09 444 5858
info@theveincentre.co.nz
Your favourite reads are on offer
Our best-selling Kiwi magazines are part of the Black Friday offers, with up to 40% off subscriptions to NZ Gardener, NZ House & Garden and TV Guide. Whether you’re after gardening tips, interior inspiration or the latest entertainment news, there’s a little something for everyone (and a … View moreOur best-selling Kiwi magazines are part of the Black Friday offers, with up to 40% off subscriptions to NZ Gardener, NZ House & Garden and TV Guide. Whether you’re after gardening tips, interior inspiration or the latest entertainment news, there’s a little something for everyone (and a handy way to get your gifting sorted without leaving home).
Māori Art Created with Aroha – $48
Kia ora, Neighbourly whānau!
I’m Paige, an 18-year-old Māori artist studying at Waikato University. I create authentic Māori artwork inspired by my whakapapa, whenua, and the stories of my whānau. Art keeps me grounded in my culture and helps support my studies as I work towards a future … View moreKia ora, Neighbourly whānau!
I’m Paige, an 18-year-old Māori artist studying at Waikato University. I create authentic Māori artwork inspired by my whakapapa, whenua, and the stories of my whānau. Art keeps me grounded in my culture and helps support my studies as I work towards a future supporting tamariki in our community.
This piece is created with aroha, intention, and deep respect for our culture.
Price: $48
If you’d like to support a young local artist and bring meaningful Māori art into your home, I’d love to share my mahi with you. Ngā mihi nui!
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