Looking for a way to get the kids out of the house, off their screens, and burning off some serious winter energy? We are challenging your whānau to conquer Auckland’s most iconic volcanic cones these school holidays!
Auckland is built on a field of over 50 dormant volcanoes. Climbing them offers a mix of Māori history, epic 360-degree views, and plenty of space to run around.
Here is your family guide to 5 of the best peaks to tackle, complete with all the details you need to plan your mission.
As the highest natural point on the Auckland mainland, this is a must-do. The massive 50-metre-deep crater (Te Kāhu o te Rangi) is awe-inspiring for kids of all ages.
This is one of the largest former Māori fortifications (pā) in New Zealand and is surrounded by the beautiful Cornwall Park.
If you're on the North Shore, this is your local giant. It has a rich military history that kids love exploring.
One of Auckland’s best-preserved volcanic cones, featuring two large craters and a rich cultural landscape.
Though not the highest peak, it is arguably the most exciting for kids because it is riddled with old military tunnels and gun emplacements.
🎁 SHARE YOUR SUMMIT SELFIES & WIN! 🎁 Did your whānau successfully conquer a peak? We want to celebrate with you! Share your family summit selfies or track-conquering photos on Facebook or Instagram to inspire other local parents. Make sure to tag our page and use the hashtag #AKLVolcanoChallenge in your post. Just by sharing your adventure, you’ll go in the draw to win one of a couple of $25 vouchers to a local business of your choice. Show us those views!
Which peak is your family going to cross off the list first? Let us know in the comments! 👇
Looking for more ways to fill the school holidays after your volcano challenge? Challenge the family to a game of holiday Bingo, head out to celebrate Matariki, or simply get cosy indoors with our Winter Warmer ideas.
We are proud to feature over 2,200 local businesses in our directory. While we make every effort to keep our records current, business details do change. Please use these listings as a helpful guide, and let us know at hibiscuscoast@linku2.co.nz any updates we should make.
As we settle into the winter months for 2026, the drop in temperature naturally turns our attention indoors towards our "Home Sweet Home". We are incredibly lucky on the Hibiscus Coast to enjoy a beautiful coastal lifestyle, but adapting our properties for the cooler, wetter months requires a bit of planning. Whether you are buying your first house, selling an investment, undertaking a major build, or simply focusing on seasonal maintenance, there is a local professional ready to help you navigate your property journey.
This month, our Home Sweet Home feature is packed with insights to help you achieve the highly sought-after 2026 "Curated Comfort" aesthetic while ensuring your home remains a dry, warm, and secure sanctuary.
Financing Your Property Goals Before making structural changes, it is essential to get your finances organised. If you are looking to fund sustainable upgrades without draining your savings, read our guide on Financing Your Winter Warmth: Leveraging Equity for Energy Efficiency. For expert local lending advice, speak to the team at First Rate Mortgages or explore specialist options through Non Bk Ltd.
Understanding the capital gains of these upgrades is equally important. Discover how to turn seasonal comfort into a calculated investment in The ROI of a "Green" Winter. For comprehensive budgeting and accountancy advice, David Hooper CA Ltd is an excellent local resource. Alternatively, if your property is linked to a family trust or rental portfolio, reach out to the Whangaparāoa-based experts at Turnbull & Associates.
Designing, Building, and Renovating The way we live is continually evolving. If you want to accommodate extended family, our guide on Building Granny Flats Without Consent breaks down the latest Auckland law changes. To ensure these builds are compliant, space-optimised, and beautifully crafted, engage a professional architectural firm like Archoffice. Additionally, learn how to maximise natural heat in our article, Designing for "Passive Wellness".
For those looking to optimise their existing floor plan, The "Flex-Room" Evolution explores turning a spare room into a high-end office and guest suite. Keep your projects on track from concept to completion by reading A Structured Guide to Home Renovations, and rely on the local design-and-build specialists at Refresh Renovations to manage the heavy lifting.
A home refresh needs the right aesthetic. Protect your home's exterior or embrace the trending "Cloud Dancer" colour palette with the professionals at Pittura Painters and Decorators. To complete your home's transformation, don't miss our interior tips in The Op-Shop Edit: Styling Vintage Finds in a Modern Home, where we show you how to mix sustainable, pre-loved treasures with modern design for a warm, inviting space. And don't miss our interior tips in
Winter Maintenance and Security Coastal living brings unique environmental challenges. The sea breeze can wreak havoc on hardware, so follow our DIY checklist in Coastal Lock Maintenance to prevent seizing. For complex repairs or upgrades, trust the experts at King Locksmiths.
For the ultimate peace of mind during the dark winter nights, upgrade your home with smart monitoring systems from TDS Security.
Finally, keeping your home healthy means managing moisture. Brush up on your airflow habits with The "Anti-Damp" Routine: Passive Ventilation Hacks. To combat winter grime without harsh chemicals, we highly recommend the eco-friendly solutions from Red Beach's own Insinc Products.
Whatever your property goals are this season, Linku2 Hibiscus Coast is your connection to the best local trades. Explore the full Home Sweet Home promotion today and support local!
Further Reading
Linku2 Hibiscus Coast
You’ve secured the property, and the keys are almost in your hand.
Now comes the next question:
“How do we actually get this renovation underway?”
For many homeowners, this is where things start to feel unclear.
At the start, the ideas are usually clear:
The challenge is everything that sits behind that.
Understanding:
Without a clear plan, projects can quickly become:
At Refresh Renovations, we manage renovations through a structured, end-to-end process — from initial concepts through to completion.
Rather than coordinating multiple designers, trades, and timelines yourself, the process is brought together under one team.
This means:
The first step is an Initial Consultation.
This is a chance to:
It’s a practical starting point that helps shape the direction of the project.
From there, projects typically move into a Scoping & Feasibility stage.
This is where we:
This stage is about creating clarity before moving into detailed design and construction.
Early stages are based on the information available at the time and a visual review of the property.
As the project develops, further detail, design decisions, and site conditions may influence scope and costs.
Taking a structured approach allows decisions to be made progressively, with better information at each stage.
Starting with a clear process helps:
It also removes the need to manage multiple moving parts yourself.
Renovating a home is not just about the end result - it’s about how you get there.
Having a clear structure and the right team in place from the beginning can make the process significantly more manageable.
If you’ve recently purchased a property and are thinking about renovating, the first step is to have a conversation.
Get in touch to arrange an initial consultation and we can talk you through the next stage.
Refresh Renovations Rodney and Hibiscus Coast, Servicing the Coast and all Rodney, Phone: 0800-21-52-16, Email: bronson.arter@refresh.co.nz, Web: https://bit.ly/refresh-rodney
Congratulations on your new home! Whether you’ve just moved to a coastal cottage in Orewa or a modern family home in Silverdale, the first few weeks are a whirlwind of boxes and décor decisions. However, amidst the excitement of the Home Sweet Home season, there is one essential task that belongs at the top of every new homeowner’s list: securing your sanctuary.
On the Hibiscus Coast, we pride ourselves on our community spirit, but taking proactive steps toward your own peace of mind is always a smart move. Here are four essential security steps to take the moment you get the keys.
Many new homeowners believe they need to replace every handle and deadbolt to be safe. In many cases, lock re-keying is a much more cost-effective and efficient solution. A professional locksmith can adjust the internal pins of your existing locks so they only work with a brand-new set of keys. This ensures that any "lost" keys held by previous owners, tradespeople, or neighbors will no longer grant access to your home.
It’s easy to miss a loose window latch or a faulty garage door bolt when you’re focused on paint colors. A security audit looks at your home through the eyes of an expert. From checking the strength of your ranch slider locks to ensuring your digital entry codes are updated, a quick professional assessment can identify vulnerabilities before they become problems.
If you’re looking to upgrade, modern security services now offer fantastic digital solutions. Keyless entry pads and smart locks are perfect for active Hibiscus Coast families—no more worrying about losing a key at the beach or during the school run. Plus, they allow you to grant temporary access to visitors or cleaners with a simple code change.
Once your home is secure, don’t forget the basics. Quality key cutting for a trusted neighbor or family member is your best defense against an accidental lockout. Having a spare key safely tucked away with someone you trust is a small step that saves a lot of stress during a busy week.
As you settle into our beautiful community, remember that supporting local expertise is what makes the Coast thrive. If you need assistance with your new home security, you can find trusted Hibiscus Coast locksmiths and security services right here on our directory.
Check out more property tips and local experts in our Home Sweet Home Feature!
Choosing where to spend your "Golden Years" is one of the most significant decisions you’ll make. In New Zealand, the landscape of retirement living has evolved significantly, offering more variety and protection than ever before. Whether you are looking for total independence, a sense of community, or a pathway to care, understanding the pros and cons of each pathway is essential.
Here is a breakdown of the primary options available in Aotearoa as of 2026.
For many Kiwis, the goal is to stay in their familiar family home as long as possible. With the rise of "smart home" tech and mobile services, this is becoming easier.
Retirement villages operate under an Occupation Right Agreement (ORA). You don't "own" the unit in a traditional sense; you own the right to live there.
💡 2026 Legislative Update: Recent changes to the Retirement Villages Act now provide better protection for residents. Operators are now required to repay your capital within 12 months of you leaving and must pay you interest if the unit hasn't sold after 6 months.
It’s important to distinguish these from villages. Retirement homes (rest homes) provide 24/7 clinical care.
| Option | Primary Cost Structure | Care Availability | Ownership Status |
| Own Home | Rates, Insurance, Maintenance | External (NASC/Private) | Freehold / Title |
| Retirement Village | Entry Price + Weekly Fee - DMF | Often has "Pathway to Care" | License to Occupy |
| Rest Home | Weekly Care Fee (Subsidised/Private) | 24/7 Clinical Care | N/A (Rental/Admission) |
| Lifestyle Village | Monthly Fees / Entry Price | Limited to None | Varies (often ORA) |
The right choice depends entirely on your health, your hobbies, and your financial goals. If you value leaving a large inheritance, staying in your home or downsizing to a smaller freehold property might be best. If you value social connection and safety above all else, a retirement village is hard to beat.
Are you currently weighing up these options? What is the most important factor for you—social life, health care, or financial flexibility?
Download the image, colour Santa at the Beach and submit your entry by completing the form below the image to be in to win a $25 voucher to your favourite local business. Ages up to 13 years. We'll also display all entries online!! Competition closes Sunday 21 December. Open to all kids residing in Hibiscus Coast suburbs only.
If you have any problems with submitting your entry please email us on hibiscuscoast@linku2.co.nz
Below are some of the recipes mentioned in our Easy, Summer-Friendly Christmas Dishes post.
Serves: 4–6 | Prep: 10 mins
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Serves: 4 | Prep & Cook: 25 mins
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Serves: 4 | Prep: 15 mins
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Serves: 4 | Prep & Cook: 10 mins
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Serves: 4 | Prep & Cook: 15 mins
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Serves: 6–8 | Prep & Cook: 1 hr 15 mins
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Serves: 4 | Prep & Freeze: 4 hrs
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Whilst we have some of the best beaches across Auckland here on the Coast sometimes it's a refreshing change to look for a summer water adventure beyond the beach? And the Hibiscus Coast and immediate areas are home to a few options worth a fresh water visit for a perfect summer day trip or weekend wander.
Close to home, at Shakespear Park you can take a short walk to Waterfall Gully. A small waterfall but set in beautiful native bush and home to a cluster of glow worms (titiwai) for an evening visit for the family. Waterfall Gully is also home to tūī, native pigeons (kererū), bellbird (korimako). If you head along during the day you can also enjoy the park including the Shakespear Heritage Trail an interesting walk that takes in WWII heritage including a gun emplacement and pillboxes, native forest, farmland, a wetland, and spectacular 360-degree views over Auckland at the lookout point. A great day out to enjoy a picnic.
If you’re looking for something with a coastal twist, Wenderholm Regional Park blends estuary, bush, and sea. While there’s no large waterfall, the Puhoi River winds gently through the park, offering shady riverside picnic areas and calm waters for kayaking or paddleboarding. Wenderholm contains one of Auckland's best examples of mainland coastal forest. The park has a peaceful bush track best suited to confident walkers which takes you around Maungatauhoro, an area rich in Māori history with some great scenic lookout points.
Alternatively, on your water hunt, if you head west towards State Highway 16 you'll discover Omeru Reserve near Kaukapakapa is one of North Auckland’s best-kept secrets. With a series of small waterfalls and natural pools tucked among lush native forest, with well-maintained tracks and picnic spots. It’s an easy family outing and great for cooling your feet after a walk.
Approx 50-minute drive north from Orewa takes you to Lake Tomarata, one of the best freshwater swimming spots north of Auckland. Surrounded by dunes and forest, the lake is shallow near the shore so perfect for children and it is popular for kayaking, paddleboarding, and picnics. Facilities include toilets, parking, and tables, making it an ideal fresh water family-friendly destination.
For something closer to home, Eaves Bush Reserve in Orewa offers a peaceful stream-side walk. Though swimming isn’t allowed here, it’s a beautiful reminder of the Coast’s natural heritage and a great spot for an easy stroll on a hot day. Its 16-hectares holds remnants of coastal kauri-broadleaf forest. Common species include kahikatea, karaka, kōwhai, mataī, pūriri, rewarewa, supplejack, taraire and large numbers of nīkau.
The reserve has short walks accessible via tracks and pedestrian walkways, and a lower walkway running along Nukumea Stream to Kensington Park. A higher track by the Hillcrest Road entrance visits the pā site, which was occupied as recently as 1827.
Whilst the beaches are the main water draw card for the Coast the area is also blessed with a unique mix of coastline, forest, and freshwater beauty. Wherever your adventure takes you, remember to respect the environment - stay on marked tracks, take your rubbish home, and leave only footprints. So grab your togs, pack a picnic, and start exploring away from the beaches and you might just find your new favourite summer escape - right in your own backyard.
Asia covers not only a vast area and a large number of countries but also a great variety of cultures and hence cuisines. However they do share a number of common ingredients the most oommon being rice. Basmati rice is popular in the subcontinent, Jasmine rice often in the southeast, long grain is popular in China and short grain popular in Japan and Korea.
Curry is common in southern and southeastern Asia but not as common in East Asia and curry with a yoghurt base have origins in India and other South Asian countries and Southeastern and Eastern curries have a general base of coconut milk.
One of the areas with particular cuisine features are the cuisines of South East Asia which include a strong emphasis on lightly prepared dished with a strong aromatic component with favours such as citrus and herbs including mint, coriander and basil.
Cuisines include Bruneian, Burmese, Cambodian, Hong Kong, Indonesian, Laotian, Macanese, Malay, Phillippine, Singaporean, Thai and Vietnamese.
This article focuses on the diverse cuisines of Indonesia. Indonesia is composed of approximately 6,000 populated islands with a range of regional cuisines based on cultural and foreign influences. Sumatra cuisine has Middle Eastern and Indian influences and Javanese and Sudanese cuisines are more indigenous.
A selection of traditional dishes found in Indonesian cuisine include Nasi Goreng, which is considered by some to be the national dish of Indonesia. It’s staple ingredient is rice mixed with a range of spices.
Satay is another delicacy central to the Indonesian culinary culture. Often sold from the warung food stands often you will see the vendor blowing meat smoke with a hand held fan.
Gado-Gado is a widely variegated dish and can be a main or side dish. Basically gado-gado is a vegetable salad covered with a peanut sauce with a range of regional variations.
Babur Ayam is Indonesia’s ultimate breakfast consisting of rice porridge with shredded chicken, cakwe, crispy fried shallots and chopped scallion.
Soto is an Indonesian traditional soup served in a savory chicken broth seasoned with turmeric. Shredded chicken, eggs, vermicelli and fried shallots are then added. There are however a number of variants of soto depending on the region.
Ketroprak comprises ketupat which is a compressed rice cake, vermicelli, bean sprouts, tahu and mixed with a peanut sauce
Kerupuk are deep fried crackers which are a popular snack across Indonesia.
Indonesian cuisine also has it’s own flavours and dishes reflecting the regions which include -
Balinese Cuisine – Reflect the culinary traditions of the Balinese people from the volcanic island of Bali. it is one of the most complex cuisines in the world using an incredible variety of spices blended with fresh vegetables, meat and fish. Night markets, warungs (food stands), and fruit vendors sell local delicacies.
Batak Cuisine – Reflect the traditions of Batak ethnic groups found mostly in North Sumatra region.
Indonesian Chinese Cuisine – The Chinese cuisine legacy is introduced into the local Indonesian mix in these dishes
Javanese Cuisine – Javanese cuisine refers to the cuisine of the whole people of Java Island which also includes Sudanese cuisine in West Java, Betawi in Jakarta and Madurese on Madura Island which is off East Java. In Sudanese cuisine it is common to eat with one’s hands and meals are served with kobokan which is a bowl of tap water with a slice of lime for handwashing.
Padang food – which is also known as Minangkabau cuisine comes from the peoples of West Sumatra.
It would take a lifetime to experience all the flavours and variants within Asian cuisine so find what you like and explore each culinary delight at your leisure.
Dan Brown is a renowned author of numerous #1 bestselling novels, most notably The Da Vinci Code, which has become one of the best-selling books of all time and sparked widespread debate among readers and scholars alike. His books have been translated into 54 languages and have sold over 200 million copies worldwide.
In 2005, TIME Magazine named Brown one of the 100 Most Influential People in the World. The magazine credited him with revitalizing the publishing industry, renewing interest in Leonardo da Vinci and early Christian history, boosting tourism to Paris and Rome, and inspiring a surge of secret society memberships. His work has also attracted both admiration and controversy from religious figures and scholars, and it has spawned numerous guides, documentaries, and a major film franchise.
Born to a mathematics teacher and a church organist, Brown grew up on a prep school campus, where he developed a fascination with the paradoxical relationship between science and religion—an enduring theme in his novels. He is a graduate of Amherst College and Phillips Exeter Academy, where he later taught English before dedicating himself fully to writing.
Brown is the author of six novels, two of which have been adapted into movies. His most famous work, The Da Vinci Code, is part of a trilogy. The series begins with Angels & Demons, followed by The Da Vinci Code, and concludes with The Lost Symbol. His stories typically involve treasure hunts set within 24 hours, featuring cryptography, symbols, codes, and conspiracy theories that explore the mysteries surrounding historical and religious secrets.
Golf is a fun way to stay active, enjoy nature, and boost your health. Playing outdoors in the sunshine and fresh air offers numerous benefits for your mind and body.
Enjoy healthy, happy golfing!
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
