A new year has a funny way of shining a light on the little things at home that just aren’t working anymore.
The kitchen that feels chaotic every morning.
The bathroom that’s cold, tired, or short on storage.
The layout that technically works… but could work so much better.
They’re small frustrations - until they’re not.
Good renovations aren’t about trends or big statements. They’re about improving how your home feels to live in.
Think:
Simple changes, done well, can completely change how a home works.
One of the biggest reasons people put off renovating? They think they need all the answers first.
You don’t.
Most projects start with a conversation - what’s not working, what you’d love to improve, and what’s realistic for your home. From there, the plan takes shape.
Starting early gives you breathing room. Time to explore ideas. Time to make confident decisions.
Renovating is a big investment. Doing it right the first time matters.
Thoughtful planning leads to:
It’s not about rushing — it’s about getting it right.
If a renovation is on your radar - whether it’s a kitchen, bathroom, layout change, or something bigger - the New Year is a great time to start thinking it through.
At Refresh Renovations Rodney, we work with homeowners across the Hibiscus Coast and Rodney to plan and deliver renovations that are practical, well-designed, and built to last.
Even if you’re just in the ideas phase, we’re happy to help you explore what’s possible.
Ready to make your home work better this year? Let’s start with a conversation. Call Amber and Bronson for a no obligation chat on 0800 215 216 or email bronson.arter@refresh.co.nz or amber.osborne@refresh.co.nz
From David Hooper, David Hooper CA Ltd
The boost is really only a timing difference for tax: when the asset is eventually sold, any “over-claim” of depreciation may be written back as depreciation recovered and taxed as income.
From 22 May 2025, NZ businesses can claim an extra 20% deduction in year one when they buy a new depreciable asset (often called the “Investment Boost”). You still depreciate the remaining 80% at the normal IRD rate. It’s not free money - it simply brings forward a slice of future deductions to help cash flow now, with a potential clawback later if you sell above book value.
What qualifies (in plain English): New business assets like machinery, tools, equipment, and many fit outs. Not second-hand purchases. Commercial buildings can qualify for the 20% upfront deduction even though they don’t usually depreciate.
Buy a new machine for $100,000. In year one you can deduct $20,000 immediately. The remaining $80,000 is depreciated as usual over time. At a 28% tax rate, that upfront 20% could trim this year’s tax by $5,600 - but remember, if you later sell above its book value, some or all of that benefit may be taxed back as depreciation recovery.
Keep invoices and an asset register; confirm the asset is new and used for business; factor the bigger year‑one deduction into provisional tax planning; and before signing, check the sale and purchase terms (including any chattels values) so tax treatment matches reality.
This is general advice only so always consult a Chartered Accountant to get advice on your situation.
Big idea: Inland Revenue allows an interest deduction when borrowed money is used to earn taxable income. If your loans have funded private spending (owner drawings, overdrawn shareholder current accounts), that portion of interest isn’t deductible. The good news: you can often restructure now so future interest becomes deductible.
Warning: Always seek professional advice from a Chartered Accountant as there are traps.
List every loan and overdraft and ask: What did these dollars actually pay for? Tag each portion business (stock, wages, equipment, fit-out, premises) or private (drawings, personal bills, historic tidy-ups). Blended facilities are common—split them on paper first.
An overdrawn shareholder current account (the shareholder owes the company) screams “private use”. If bank debt is effectively covering that overdraft, interest on that slice is non-deductible. Two fixes:
1) Dividend set-off
Declare a fully imputed dividend and apply it to clear the overdrawn balance (legal set-off). From that date, ensure all borrowing funds business purposes only.
Example: The company has a $60k overdrawn current account and a $180k term loan. You declare a $60k fully imputed dividend and set it off, eliminating the private receivable. You then split the facility into two sub-accounts: $120k business working capital and $60k capex. Going forward, interest on both is deductible because the funds are clearly tied to income-earning use.
2) Shareholder cash injection
The shareholder repays the debit current account in cash. From then on, bank debt finances only business activity. Again, interest becomes deductible going forward.
Guardrails: Pass the Companies Act solvency test, check imputation credits, and brief shareholders on the personal tax impact of dividends.
Where possible, ask the bank for separate sub-accounts: one for working capital, one for each asset purchase. If you refinance an existing business loan at a better rate, interest remains deductible because the underlying use hasn’t changed.
Example: Last year you advanced $80k personally to cover payroll and stock (the company owes you—current account in credit). Draw an $80k business term loan and repay the shareholder. This is a refinance of business funding, so interest is deductible.
If the bank will only lend to you personally, use an on-lend: you borrow, then on-lend to the company at a commercial rate under a simple loan agreement. The company uses the funds for business; its interest is deductible. You return interest income; your personal interest cost broadly offsets it.
Example: You borrow $120k at 8.2% and on-lend at 8.5%. The company buys equipment and deducts the 8.5% interest. You return 8.5% interest income and pay 8.2% interest expense—small spread, clean tracing.
Bottom line: You can’t re-characterise yesterday’s spend, but with clean splits, proper resolutions and crisp tracing, you can ensure tomorrow’s interest is deductible.
Article provided by:
Advice from David Hooper CA Ltd
For those local businesses seeking advice on how to best work for your business at tax time, this advice focuses on vehicle expense claims if you are a company structure.
A company is a distinct legal entity as such, when a company provides a benefit to an employee or shareholder-employee – such as the use of a company-owned vehicle for private purposes – that benefit is typically subject to Fringe Benefit Tax (FBT).
In simple terms, FBT is a tax applied to non-cash benefits that employees (including shareholder-employees) receive as part of their employment. The FBT cost is typically the equivalent of getting the value of the benefit as extra salary or wages.
The obligation to pay FBT lies with the employer not the employee.
If a company vehicle is used exclusively for business purposes and is not available for private use, FBT does not apply. However, Inland Revenue takes a strict stance: if a vehicle is available for private use – even if not actively used for personal trips – it is deemed to be a fringe benefit. Notably, commuting between home and work is classified as personal use with some exemptions.
There is an exemption for certain work-related vehicles, such as utes and vans.
To qualify, the following conditions generally apply:
Companies that own fewer than two vehicles and do not provide any other fringe benefits may elect to opt out of FBT. In this case, vehicle use is treated similarly to sole trader arrangements, where expenses (including depreciation and interest) and GST can be claimed based on the actual business use percentage. Maintaining a logbook for three months is the normal proof of the percentage.
An alternative to providing company vehicles is to reimburse employees (including shareholder-employees) for the use of their private vehicles. This can be done via:
For closely held companies, determining whether a vehicle should be owned by the company or retained privately is an important strategic decision.
To minimise FBT exposure:
This article is intended for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or tax advice. While care has been taken to ensure the content is current and accurate at the time of publication, tax legislation and Inland Revenue (IRD) guidance may change over time.
Readers are strongly advised to consult with a qualified tax professional or accountant before acting on the information contained herein, especially in cases involving complex or unique business circumstances. DHCA assumes no liability for any loss or damage arising from reliance on this information.
If you'd like further tax advice or support call David and his team on 09-421-1635 or email on david@davidhooperca.co.nz
Approximately 5% of adults and 10% of children experience blocked ears - if you're one of them here are some tips and notes on why this may be and what to do when you have blocked or sore ears.
Ear wax, or cerumen, may not be a glamorous topic, but it plays a vital role in ear health. Produced by specialized sweat glands in the ear canal, wax acts as the body’s natural self-cleaning mechanism, protecting against bacteria and reducing the risk of infections.
However, when ear wax becomes impacted or lodged in the canal, it can cause irritation, infections, and hearing difficulties. When you are experiencing the frustration that comes with blocked ears this is the time when the locals at Hear Again can become your best friends in helping you understand and obtain effective relief.
While ear wax serves a purpose, overproduction or impaction can lead to blockages. Most blockages occur naturally but can be worsened by inserting fingers or cotton buds, which push wax further into the canal, making it harder to remove naturally.
When it comes to ear health, it’s easy to do more harm than good. Your ears are designed to clean themselves, and often the best thing you can do is leave them alone. But if things start to feel blocked, uncomfortable, or your hearing seems off, that’s when it’s time to call in the experts.
At Hear Again, we’re here to take the guesswork (and risk) out of ear care.
Instead of trying to manage wax buildup at home, come see us for safe, professional help. Our friendly team uses gentle micro-suction technology that’s far more effective, and much safer than cotton buds or DIY remedies.
Important: Never insert objects into your ear canal and avoid using sharp or hard objects for cleaning.
Ear pain and hearing issues can be frustrating, and in many cases, they’re signs that something deeper is going on. Whether it’s a wax blockage, inflammation, or even an infection, it’s best not to self-diagnose or rely solely on over-the-counter remedies.
At Hear Again, we’re here to help you get to the root of the problem, and provide real, lasting relief.
If You’re Experiencing:
Don’t wait it out, book an appointment with our friendly team for a professional check. We can assess your ears, remove any wax blockages, and let you know if further treatment is needed.
But remember: these are only temporary measures. If symptoms persist or you’re unsure what's causing the problem, it’s best to come in and have it looked at properly.
If you contact Hear Again they can offer you wax removal appointments with a fixed fee, regardless of how much wax needs to be taken out. If you are unsure if ear wax is affecting your hearing you can also request a free assessment at no charge.
While most blockages are caused by wax build up, infections in the outer or middle ear can also cause similar symptoms. If you experience pain or discharge, it may indicate an infection. A professional ear cleaning can help, but you should visit your GP for further treatment. The experienced team at Hear Again can guide you toward the best course of action.
Blocked ears shouldn’t interfere with your quality of life. Book an appointment with the specialist team at Hear Again and get back to hearing clearly.
If you'd like advice or support around any hearing matter pop by and have a chat with the friendly team at Hear Again, upstairs at Coast Plaza, Ph: 0508-432-724 or email on info@hearagain.co.nz.
Find Your New Passion, Learn a Skill, or Just Have Fun!
The Hibiscus Coast isn’t only about beaches and cafés - it’s also bursting with clubs and activities that cater to all ages and interests. Whether you’re looking to stay active, be creative, meet new people, or learn something new, there’s something here for everyone. You can view a wide range of community, health, leisure and sport clubs and groups online and we are keen to get more information than just basic details (and ensuring details are updated) if you can enlighten us, however, below is your guide to some of the wonderful leisure clubs and groups that make this community special, organised by category.
No matter your age, background or interests, the Hibiscus Coast offers a vibrant and welcoming mix of leisure opportunities. So why not step out, try something new, and meet the locals who share your passions?
Are you ready to join in? Search online in our Linku2 Hibiscus Coast Leisure Clubs section and contact clubs directly to find out how to get involved. It’s your coast—make the most of it!
Note: Club contacts can change often so if you find we have the wrong details for a club please let us know so we can keep our directory as up-to-date as possible.
When your home starts to feel dated or no longer meets your needs, the big question arises: Should you renovate or start from scratch? And who you gonna call? While building new can seem appealing, renovating is often the more practical—and surprisingly rewarding—path. Here's why:
Building new comes with major costs—demolition, earthworks, consents, and today's inflated construction prices. Renovating can allow you to:
Bonus: You can often live in part of your home during renovations, saving on temporary accommodation.
Many older homes have architectural features you won’t find in modern builds—timber floors, high ceilings, native timber joinery, or a certain street appeal that new builds can’t match. Renovation preserves the heart of the home while modernising function and comfort.
Your current home might be in a fantastic spot—close to schools, beaches, shops, or public transport. Rebuilding might force you to navigate new council restrictions, or even change your footprint on the land. Renovating allows you to:
Full rebuilds or new builds must meet strict building codes, resource consents, and may require additional infrastructure compliance (like stormwater upgrades or setback changes). Renovations may:
Tearing down a home contributes to landfill waste, while renovating allows you to reuse and repurpose existing materials. For eco-conscious homeowners, renovation is often the greener path:
Renovating lets you focus on what matters most:
You don’t need to design from scratch—you just tailor what’s already there.
| Renovating Benefits | Why It Might Beat Rebuilding |
|---|---|
| Lower upfront costs | Avoids full demolition/rebuild fees |
| Preserves character | Retains charm, history, street appeal |
| Keeps your location | Stay close to schools, work, community |
| Environmentally friendly | Reduces waste and footprint |
| Simpler planning process | Often faster than building from scratch |
Thinking about renovating? It’s worth talking to a builder, architect, or renovation consultant first.
Recommendation: Specialist renovation services for Hibiscus Coast and Rodney. Whether you are after a bathroom or kitchen renovation, house extension, garage build or conversion or just help with your walk-in wardrobe design. Bronson and Amber from Refresh Renovations can assess your home's bones and help you decide what's realistic - and what might give you the most bang for your buck. They have the expertise to get the best result with a seamless and stress free process and have the contacts to get you the best pricing! Know your costs before you start! Call today for an obligation free chat ...
Your local guide to primary and secondary schools from Milldale to Whangaparāoa
| School Name | Type | Years | Roll / Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ahutoetoe School | State Primary | 0–6 | New; capacity to grow to 700 |
| Milldale Primary | State Primary | 1–6 | Opened 2023, staged roll increase |
| Nukumea Primary | State Primary | 1–6 | New Orewa school; permanent build 2024+ |
| Orewa Primary | State Primary | 1–6 | Longstanding; near Orewa town |
| Orewa Beach Primary | State Primary | 1–6 | Coastal school; arts-rich |
| Red Beach School | State Primary | 1–6 | Strong community; large roll |
| Silverdale Primary | State Primary | 1–6 | Heritage meets modern |
| Stanmore Bay Primary | State Primary | 1–6 | Popular for sports and facilities |
| Gulf Harbour School | State Primary | 1–6 | Scenic setting, local pride |
| Whangaparāoa Primary | State Primary | 1–6 | Longstanding, central location |
| Stella Maris | Integrated Catholic | 1–6 | Popular Catholic school in Silverdale |
| KingsWay School | Integrated Christian | 1–13 | Large roll, two campuses |
| Wentworth Primary | Private | 1–6 | Small, tailored teaching |
| Wentworth College | Private | 7–13 | Cambridge curriculum |
| Orewa College | State Secondary | 7–13 | Strong arts, music, academic support |
| Whangaparāoa College | State Secondary | 7–13 | Modern, inclusive, STEAM-based |
✅ Zoning is key – many of the established schools (like Orewa College, Red Beach, and Whangaparāoa College) operate strict enrolment zones. New families moving to the area should check catchments before buying or renting.
✅ New schools = modern facilities – families in Milldale, Millwater, and north Orewa benefit from purpose-built campuses and future-focused teaching.
✅ Private/Integrated – for those seeking Christian or faith-based values or British/Cambridge curriculum, KingsWay and Wentworth are standout choices.
✅ Community connection – schools like Red Beach, Stanmore Bay, and Gulf Harbour have active PTAs and high parent involvement.
With a mix of long-standing institutions and cutting-edge new schools, the Hibiscus Coast offers a rich educational landscape. Whether you’re a new family in Milldale or looking to change zones in Red Beach or Gulf Harbour, there are excellent choices at every level—from early learning to secondary.
📍 Tip: Visit schools during open days, check ERO reports, and explore each school’s character—not just the roll size. The “best school” is often the one that feels right for your child.
Car trouble never happens at a good time - but when it happens on the Coast, knowing the right local service to call can turn your day around fast. Whether it’s a flat battery, a flat tyre, or you’ve accidentally locked yourself out, here’s your go-to guide to getting back on the road in no time.
Pick your preferred provider from our local directory and save these numbers in your phone before you need them!
📱 Mobile Mechanic | 🚚 Tow Service | 🔑 Auto Locksmith | 🚗 Tyre Help | ⛽ Fuel Delivery
So… who you gonna call?
When your car gives up on you anywhere from Hatfields Beach to Gulf Harbour, these Hibiscus Coast legends are just one call away.
Rainy days can dampen more than just the pavement - especially if you have kids bouncing off the walls, plans cancelled, and energy to burn. But never fear! North Auckland is full of hidden gems and local heroes ready to turn grey skies into great memories. Here’s your go-to guide for rainy day rescues, brought to you by the businesses who always have your back when the weather doesn’t.
Why wait for snow when you can have it all year round? Snowplanet in Silverdale offers skiing, snowboarding, and tubing fun - rain or shine. It’s the perfect indoor adventure when cabin fever sets in, enjoy Winter Wonderland followed by a hot chocolate at 7 Summits and if you're looking for holiday programs they can help too!
When it’s pouring outside, why not spark some creativity inside? Artz On Show offers engaging drama and art workshops each school holidays that let kids express themselves through movement, music, and storytelling. It's not just a fun week of imagination busting days - it's a chance for your child to shine and build confidence.
Glow-in-the-dark and indoors? Yes, please! Gloputt Mini Golf in Takapuna delivers family fun in a vibrant, UV-lit setting. Perfect for a competitive challenge, a birthday treat, or just escaping the drizzle in style.
With both school holiday programmes and after school sessions children get to experience the awesome world of STEAM! At Bricks 4 Kidz, children follow their creative direction and are inspired to unleash their imagination through LEGO® bricks!
For kids who are always on the move and full of energy, there are year-round swim programmes at both Northern Arena and Stanmore Bay Pool & Leisure Centre. Or, simply drop in for some splashtastic fun—no need to sit still when the pool is calling!
Got little ones with endless energy? Perhaps an indoor playground is the answer? Safe, indoor play equipment designed for toddlers to tweens gives kids the freedom to climb, slide and explore—while you grab a coffee and a breather. There are a number of places to go across North Auckland.
Whether it's a brand-new blockbuster or a family-friendly classic, the movies are always a solid rainy-day plan. Check out local cinemas with a range across North Auckland including a few boutique options such as the Bridgeway in Northcote and The Vic in Devonport showing the latest screenings and comfy seats. Make a day of it!
Or just chill with the kids and explore your local libraries, Hibiscus Coast and North Shore.
So, who you gonna call for your next rainy day rescue?
Support local, beat the boredom, and make the most of those wet weather days with fun that doesn’t depend on the forecast.
☂️ Discover more local rainy-day ideas right across the North Shore at Linku2 Things to Do.
Have you been charged with writing a eulogy for a loved one but don't know where to start? Here are a few tips to help and contact Forrest Funeral Services who can help guide you and your family through this process and ways to make the saying farewell to your loved one a special and meaningful time.
Capturing the essence of a person’s life in just a few minutes is no easy task. Yet through shared stories and memories, we can honour them in ways that are heartfelt, personal, and creative.
A truly memorable eulogy is more than a timeline of events—it’s a tribute to the person behind the milestones. While it’s appropriate to include key dates such as birth, marriage, major moves, or career changes, the spirit of the eulogy comes through stories, character, and reflection.
Consider beginning with a meaningful reading, poem, or quote—especially if it reflects the individual’s beliefs or literary tastes. This can help set the tone more thoughtfully than simply starting with a date of birth.
In some cases, offering a glimpse into the time or place where the person grew up adds colour and context. For instance, if they were born on Auckland’s North Shore in the 1920s, a short description of life back then can paint a vivid picture.
Your own personal stories and reflections are vital. Share what this person meant to you, tell anecdotes, even humorous or slightly irreverent ones—these often bring comfort and laughter, and remind us of the joy they brought into our lives.
If family members are too emotional to speak, check whether they’d like you to share a few words on their behalf. A brief quote, story, or thought can add rich layers to the tribute.
Here’s a general guide to what you might include:
How long should it be?
A eulogy of around 10 minutes—or two typed A4 pages—is typically ideal.
Visual Tributes
Photographs and mementoes can speak volumes. Old or new, images that capture personality or special moments are deeply meaningful. Enlarged or enhanced photos can be arranged easily and affordably.
Symbolic items such as a favourite hat, a piece of art, a trophy, or even a garden tool can help tell their story. Many families choose to place these near the casket before or after the eulogy.
Closing with Music
A well-chosen piece of music can offer a moment of reflection—either a personal favourite of the deceased or something that provides comfort to those gathered.
Information adapted courtesy of Forrest Funeral Homes, 39 Riverside Road, Orewa – Ph 09 426 7950, www.forrests.co.nz
By Kim Lyons - Mortgage Broker - Financial Adviser
Refinancing your home loan might sound like a big step, but for many Kiwis, it’s a smart move that can save money, reduce stress, and open up new financial opportunities. Whether you're with a bank or a non-bank lender, here are the most common reasons New Zealanders choose to refinance their mortgage.
This is the number one reason people refinance. If interest rates have dropped since you locked in your mortgage, or if your fixed term is coming up for renewal, refinancing can help you pay less interest and reduce your monthly repayments. Over time, this can mean tens of thousands of dollars in savings.
Life happens – maybe your income has changed, you're starting a family, or you just want a bit more breathing room each month. Refinancing to extend your loan term or move to a more affordable structure can help ease cash flow pressure.
If your property’s value has gone up, you may be able to release some of that equity. This extra cash can be used for:
Many clients refinance to change from:
Every situation is different, and a loan structure that worked two years ago may not be the best fit today.
If you’ve built up high-interest debt – like credit cards, personal loans, or hire purchases – rolling it into your home loan (at a much lower rate) can simplify repayments and potentially save you a significant amount in interest.
Life changes. If you're separating from a partner or ending a business relationship, refinancing can help remove someone from the mortgage and title – and ensure the home loan is set up correctly going forward.
Some Kiwis refinance to shorten their loan term and become mortgage-free sooner. Moving from a 30-year term to a 15- or 20-year loan means higher repayments but less interest paid over time – and the satisfaction of owning your home outright, faster.
Sometimes it's about getting a better deal, more flexible features, or working with a lender who understands your situation – especially if you're self-employed or don’t fit the big banks' boxes. Non-bank lenders often offer more customised solutions, and refinancing can be your ticket to better service and peace of mind.
Refinancing isn’t just about the rate – it’s about making sure your home loan suits your lifestyle, your goals, and your future.
Many...many years ago you helped me and my husband get our first mortgage for a house in Auckland through a Bank.
We have stuck with the Bank all of these years but the lovely bank manager we had got made redundant and the local branch shut.
Things have now become much harder as we are just dealing with a random stranger on a phone line now, and the service levels are not great
You helped us to finance our last house, and you were very helpful and easy to deal with.
You have assisted us in the past when we have needed some outside of the box funding with our previous business
If you're wondering whether refinancing could benefit you, let’s have a chat. We’ll take care of the paperwork, negotiate with lenders on your behalf, and help you make a confident, informed decision.
Book a free review with us – Kim Lyons, Natalie Siebrits, Danielle Happy or Murray Moore – and let’s see what’s possible.
Ph: 0800 699436 www.firstratemortgages.co.nz or www.nonbank.co.nz
