Easter is a great time to slow down, enjoy time with family and friends, and appreciate the community around us.
At Refresh Renovations Rodney, weโre lucky to work with homeowners across the Hibiscus Coast and wider Rodney region every day. From kitchens and bathrooms to full home renovations, our work takes us into many homes throughout this beautiful part of Auckland.
To celebrate the local community weโre proud to be part of, weโve teamed up with some fantastic local businesses to create a special Rodney Easter giveaway.
Itโs our small way of saying thank you to the people and businesses that make this area such a great place to live.
Weโve put together a collection of treats, experiences and a little home inspiration to enjoy this Easter.
The prize includes:
Bottle of Cloudy Bay bubbles
Al.ive hand & body wash + lotion
Easter chocolate treats
Voucher โ Hello Manly Cafรฉ
Voucher โ Clover Nails
Haircut with Bobby at Kings & Queens Hair
Voucher โ The Waterfront Restaurant & Bar
Eyebrow shape & tint with Queens Beauty by Aliyeh
Adventure Park gift card (3 Luge rides)
Interior design consultation and personalised mood board with our design consultant
Altogether the prize is valued at over $800.
One of the things we love most about working across Rodney and the Hibiscus Coast is the strong network of local businesses in the area.
From cafรฉs and restaurants to beauty services and home inspiration, these businesses are part of what makes our community so vibrant.
Weโre grateful to each of them for contributing to this giveaway and helping us create something special to share this Easter.
Alongside the local treats and experiences, the prize also includes a design consultation and personalised mood board with one of our design consultants.
Whether you're dreaming about updating a bathroom, refreshing your kitchen, or simply exploring ideas for your home, this is a great opportunity to gather inspiration for future projects.
At Refresh Renovations Rodney, our focus is on careful planning and thoughtful design, helping homeowners create spaces that truly work for the way they live.
To enter the giveaway, simply head over to either ourย Instagram or Facebook pageย and follow the entry instructions on the giveaway post. Here are the links -
Entries close 31 March, and the winner will be announced shortly after.
If youโve been considering renovating your kitchen, bathroom or another part of your home, weโd love to help.
Refresh Renovations Rodney works with homeowners across theย Hibiscus Coast and wider Rodney area, guiding projects from early planning through to construction.
You can learn more about our renovation services or get in touch with our team to discuss your project.
Good luck to everyone entering the giveaway -ย andย happy Easter from the team at Refresh Renovations Rodney.ย 
Easter is just around the corner, and we have a delicious prize pack for one lucky local family! We are giving away four chocolate Easter bunnies - the whole bunny family including Mum, Dad, and two bunny babies!
Click on the links below too and check out our holiday guides - no need for bored kids these holidays!!
To go into the draw, we want you to get creative and name our four chocolate bunnies!
๐ Entries Open: NOW! ๐ Entries Close: Sunday, 29 March 2026. ๐ The Draw: One winner will be chosen at random from all name entries to ensure you get your chocolate in time for the Easter weekend!
Come on Coasties, earn your dessert this weekend by exploring our stunning coast, enjoy the jewels in our backyard, then join us in settling the ultimate local ice cream ranking!
This is the "crown jewel" of the Hibiscus Coast. As an open sanctuary, it offers a unique mix of farming and conservation.
Perfect for families, this 7.6km loop is a local favorite for biking, scooting, or a long walk.
If you have a bit more time, head just north of the coast to Tฤwharanui.
Crossing over the hill to the North Shore, Browns Bay offers a great coastal path that connects several bays. Itโs a slightly busier vibe than the coast, perfect for people-watching and enjoying the marine traffic heading into the city.
No holiday adventure is complete without a cold treat to finish the day! The Hibiscus Coast is spoiled for choice when it comes to scooping perfection. Whether you prefer a massive cone by the beach in Orewa or a specialized scoop during a stroll through Silverdale, there is a flavor for everyone.
We want to know your local "Go-To" for a summer treat.
Comment below and tell us:
Are you a "classic Hokey Pokey" person, or do you go for the gourmet fruit swirls? Let us know!
Hey Coasties! If you're planning to spread your wings further from the Coast this Easter holidays you should be aware there continues to be disruptions to the Auckland rail services as follows -
Southern Line: Full closure from 3 to 6 April 2026. Partial closure between Puhinui to Pukekohe from 7 to 12 April 2026. Full closure on 13 to 15 April 2026. Partial closure on 25 April, with trains only running until 2pm then full closure on Southern Line. Full closure 26 to 27 April 2026.
Eastern Line: Full closure from 3 to 6 April 2026. Partial closure from 7 to 11 April 2026, only servicing Manukau. Full closure on 13 to 15 April 2026. Partial closure on 25 April, with trains only running until 2pm then full closure on Eastern Line. Full closure 26 to 27 April 2026.
Western Line: Full closure from 3 to 6 April 2026. Full closure on 13 to 15 April 2026. Partial closure on 25 April, with trains only running until 2pm then full closure on Western Line. Full closure 26 to 27 April 2026.
Onehunga Line: Full closure from 3 to 6 April 2026. Full closure on 13 to 15 April 2026. Partial closure on 25 April, with trains only running until 2pm then full closure on Onehunga Line. Full closure 26 to 27 April 2026.
During larger planned closures, AT organises rail replacement buses. These buses stop at all stations on the closed line (or closed part of the line)
For full information visit the Auckland Transport website - Planned rail closures.
Whether you're looking for the high-energy thrills of the central shows or a relaxed coastal vibe closer to home, Easter 2026 (Friday, April 3 โ Monday, April 6) is packed with events across Auckland.
Crucial: The entire rail network is CLOSED from Friday to Monday. All trains are replaced by buses. Ferries and buses will run on Sunday/Public Holiday timetables on Good Friday and Easter Monday. If you would like further information please check our Public Transport Guide for Easter Weekend post.
Thank you to all local kids who entered our "Summer is best ..." competition there were some great entries and the winner is -
Joaquin De Klerk who asked for his winning voucher to be from McDonalds!
Joaquin's winning entry was -
"Summer on the Coast is the best because ...
Its bright and beautiful, filled with friendly smiles and lots of things to do with my family."
Note: We contact all winners directly.
Remember there is still time to enter our "Summer School Holiday prize draw" and remember to check out "School's Out! Discover 12 North Auckland Favourites for Family Fun"
Another competition coming soon!!
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Competition Rules:
Note entries are open to all kids up to 16 years and you must be a resident of the Hibiscus Coast, North Shore or Rodney district regions.
For some children, school can feel overwhelming, particularly for those with special needs. They may struggle with understanding expectations, face social exclusion, or find schoolwork stressful. As a parent, your instinct might be to swoop in and fix everything, but sometimes the best support comes from simply listening, offering reassurance, and providing comfort.
Here are some practical tips to help your child manage back-to-school stress and anxiety:
1. Acknowledge Their Feelings
Saying โDonโt worry!โ may not provide much comfort when your child is feeling anxious. The most helpful thing you can do is to validate their feelings. Acknowledge that their worries are real and let them know you understand. This creates a safe space for them to open up and share their concerns with you.
2. Ask, โWhat are the three things youโre most worried about?โ
Instead of asking broad questions, encourage your child to pinpoint their worries. Asking them to name three specific things theyโre anxious about helps break down their fears into manageable parts. If they canโt think of anything, have them list the most recent things that have caused them stress.
3. Ask, โWhat are the three things youโre most excited about?โ
Help your child focus on the positive aspects of school, even if they seem small. Whether itโs a fun activity, seeing friends, or the thought of coming home at the end of the day, reminding them of what they look forward to can help balance their fears.
4. Practice Role-Playing
Once you understand what triggers your childโs anxiety, use role-playing to help them practice responses to those situations. For example, role-play how they could handle a difficult teacher or a peer who is bullying them. Modeling coping strategies will give your child practical tools for managing stress in real-life situations.
5. Keep Communication Open
Make it clear to your child that they can always talk to you about their worries. Sometimes, you donโt need to have a solutionโjust listening and talking through their concerns can help them feel less overwhelmed. Stay connected, and if the situation worsens, youโll be ready to step in and help.
6. Understand the Healing Power of Tears
Crying is a natural way to relieve stress. While itโs tough to see your child upset, allow them to express their emotions. After theyโve calmed down, they may be more open to talking about whatโs bothering them. Provide comfort and understanding while letting the tears run their course.
7. Resist the Urge to Fix Everything
Sometimes, parents need to intervene, especially when a child is in a difficult class or an IEP isnโt being followed. However, teach your child that not everything can be fixed right away. Some challenges are a part of life and must be faced head-on. Focus on addressing the issues that are truly urgent or harmful.
8. Know When to Seek Professional Help
Itโs common for kids to experience some anxiety about school, but when that anxiety becomes disruptive, professional help may be needed. Watch for signs such as drastic changes in behavior, social withdrawal, shifts in eating or sleeping habits, or reluctance to talk. If you notice these signs, consider seeking help from a counselor or therapist.
Additional Tips:
What You Need:
By approaching your childโs back-to-school anxiety with patience, empathy, and open communication, you can help them navigate this challenging time with greater confidence and resilience.
Get kids moving and keep cool on a warm day with these easy, affordable water play activities! They're even simpler than heading to the pool (just donโt forget the sunscreen!).
Get kids moving and keep cool on a warm day with these easy, affordable water play activities! They're even simpler than heading to the pool (just donโt forget the sunscreen!).
Hose Fun
Grab the garden hose and let the kids help water the plants. Then kick off the fun! Try games like water limbo or high-jump by making a water "bar" for kids to go under or over. You can also set up target practice on the driveway, fence, or a tree using chalk to create a targetโor have a classic water fight with hoses, water guns, buckets, or water balloons.
Car Wash
Bring out the buckets, sponges, and some soapy water for a kid-powered car wash. Let them scrub down the car, bikes, ride-on toys, and other outdoor gear. When everythingโs clean, turn the sponge into a game of โsponge tagโ!
Splash Pad Outing
Take the kids to a local splashpad, like the one at Stanmore Bay Pool and Leisure Centre! Open during summer from late November/December to April/May, itโs a free, daily activity (weather permitting) and a great way to cool off.
Wet โPaintingโ
Give kids a bucket of water and some big paintbrushes or rollers, and let them "paint" on fences, porches, playsets, driveways, or sidewalks. Itโs all the fun of painting without any mess!
Creek Adventure
Take a walk to a nearby creek for a refreshing nature day. Bring along toy boats or make your own using natural materials. Why not make up a story around your boats and their adventures!
Dribble, Dribble, Drench
Try this twist on Duck, Duck, Goose! Have everyone sit in a circle, and give the person whoโs โItโ a cup or watering can. They dribble a few drops on each personโs head, choosing one to douse completely. The soaked player then chases โItโ around the circle, trying to tag them before they get back to the empty spot.
Outdoor Bath
Fill a kiddie pool with water, and add bath toys along with lightweight containers like pitchers, cups, sieves, funnels, and short PVC pipes. Let kidsโ imaginations run wild with ways to splash, pour, and play.
Ice Block Building
With a little prep, freeze water in large containers like milk cartons, adding food coloring if you like. Let the kids build with the ice blocks, using a little salt to help pieces stick together. Take a picture of their creations before they melt!
Whether short on cash or you simply just don't want to have to fork out everytime you go out as a family, there are always lots of free or fun things to do including -
Get the bikes out and go for a family bike ride. A quick lap around the neighborhood or park can be fun, if you're looking for local walks and cycles check our Hibiscus Coast Walks and Cycleways page or looking further afield around Auckland check out the Auckland Council Wheely Good Time Family Fun article.
Make a list of free museums and attractions in your area. Then work your way through the list until you've visited them all. Art museums, history museums, monuments-there's sure to be something worth checking out at each one. Locally a couple of great options to visit are the Silverdale Pioneer Village, Warkworth Museum and Bohemian Settlers Museum in Puhoi.
A great source for free books, movies and magazines, and it can also be a good source for other types of free entertainment. Check with your library to see if there are any upcoming story hours, concerts or educational programs that may be of interest to your family. Then be sure to take advantage of them. We have two great libraries here on the Coast and you can find details and information on our Linku2 Libraries page. (Please note at July 2024 the Orewa library is currently closed for renovation, library services are being offered out of the Orewa CAB).
Head out after dark for a night of stargazing fun. You can use a telescope and an astronomy guide to help you locate the constellations and planets or just wing it as you stretch out on a big blanket and stare at the sky. Either way, the evening promises to be as enjoyable as it is educational.
Play a few shorter games or one long one. Eitherway add a bit of spice by having prizes for the winners!
Add in some personalised charades - make one up each and get the others to act out - there are plenty of charade ideas on the internet too if you get stuck for ideas.
Depending on the time of year fruit picking may not be available. Head out catch a fish, pick some fruit and then back at home make something with your fresh produce! Whilst there are no local options there are a number of opportunities you will find in West and South Auckland so head out and make a day of it (check the picking season though!).
Cooking is an important life skill, and it can be a lot of fun to teach. Pick out an interesting cookbook and each pick a dish to make up a full meal - help each other with the courses and then sit down for a sumptuous but potentially unusual or unexpected meal!
Camping is the ultimate family adventure. Grab a tent, some sleeping bags and torch and head down the garden for a fun, family bonding night. You can sing camp songs, tell ghost stories, nibble on snacks and play games all without leaving home. We have lots of local options including Shakespear Regional Park, other nearby regional parks and an excellent campsite on the water's edge in Orewa.
Don't just pick the movies together but prepare together. Pop the popcorn, make up lolly bags, rearrange the room with pillows and cushions and set the stage for a fun family time.
These are just a few suggestions - there are so many things you can do together but just make sure you find the time to do them all!
Let us know in the comments below you're favourite family activity and any new ones we can add to this post! Thanks!
The start of preschool is a significant milestone, often met with a blend of excitement, joy, and some inevitable tears and uncertainty from both children and parents! Preschool is designed to ease the transition from family life or a childcare center to school. These programs help develop children's communication, problem-solving, and thinking skills while familiarizing them with school routines and rhythms.
Talk About Preschool: Discuss with your child the exciting adventure that preschool will be. Speak with their future teacher and principal to gather detailed information about daily activities, bathroom routines, and meal times. This will help you address any questions your child might have, easing their concerns.
Plan a Celebratory Breakfast: Make the morning special with a celebratory breakfast and a small gift, like a new bag or a Starting Preschool Certificate. This can help your child feel important and excited about their new role.
Tip 1: Donโt Rush Through the Morning
A rushed morning is stressful for everyone, especially on the first day. Wake up early enough to enjoy a calm, unhurried breakfast, which helps avoid last-minute tantrums and ensures you arrive on time.
Tip 2: Arrive Early
Arriving early gives your child time to settle in before the crowd arrives. This also provides extra face time with the teacher, offering additional reassurance.
Tip 3: Bring a Comfort Object
If allowed, let your child bring a favorite stuffed animal or blanket. This can make the new environment feel less intimidating. As they become more comfortable, they can gradually leave the comfort object in their cubby.
Tip 4: Put on a Happy Face
Even if youโre anxious, try to stay positive. Your child will pick up on your mood, so if you seem confident and upbeat, theyโre more likely to feel the same way.
Tip 5: Hang Around, But Donโt Hover
Many preschools encourage parents to stay for part of the first few days. If possible, stick around to give your child the courage to explore. Gradually step back as they become more secure, letting the teacher take over.
Tip 6: Keep Goodbyes Short and Sweet
When itโs time to leave, keep your good-byes brief and positive. Smile, give a hug, and let your child know when youโll be back (โIโll pick you up after lunchโ). Avoid sneaking out, as this can make your child feel insecure.
Remember, itโs normal for kids to have a meltdown when separating. Even if your child is upset, theyโll likely calm down shortly after you leave. If the adjustment takes longer, donโt worry - preschool teachers are experienced in handling these situations. And donโt be surprised if your child is too happy and busy to let you know everything they've been doing when you pick them up!
