So you've decided to take the plunge and are full of anticipation and excitement at now organising your "big" day! This can be lots of fun but can also become very stressful. What theme should you go for? How much should you spend? Do you want to get married on the beach or in the hall? Which dress will you choose!
Luckily here on the Hibiscus Coast there are plenty of locals who can help you out and here's some links to them.
If you visit our local business directory Wedding Section here you'll find links to everything from Beauty and Nail Services, Florists, Caterers, Jewellers, Venues and lots more.
If you feel the need to improve your fitness or lose those few extra kilos before the big day you'll find help at either Northern Arena or Stanmore Bay Pool and Leisure Centre.
In your planning you might want to keep budget tips in mind and your season to wed can be influential on those costs and if you're thinking Winter there's some great winter theme ideas you can use.
You'll want to make sure you get the wedding dress right and of course you need the perfect shoes too.
If you're not only taking the big leap into being married but also looking for a home to share together you'll need a good agent and one local who knows the Coast well is Tim Hansen and to ensure you have maximum spend you may wish to consult with a local mortgage broker. We have lots here on the Coast including First Rate Mortgages and iLender or if you may struggle to provide documentation or self-employed another place to turn is NonBk Ltd.
As you get closer to the day you should ensure you have taken all bouquet, corsages, buttonholes and other flower requirements into consideration - check our Wedding Flower Checklist to make sure you're not missing anything!
Naturally, on your special day you'll want to look your best and sometimes you need to start on that skincare routine and hair care earlier than the week before. Make sure ladies, your skin is looking its best with treatments from Queens Beauty and you may just want to treat yourself to those beautiful brows, which have a big impact on your overall appearance, or even beautiful and natural cosmetic lip blush or eyeliner.
As a keepsake you'll be able to treasure forever why not go together and you can seal your love with a fineline tattoo from Aliyeh.
When organizing your flowers note there are a number times you can use flowers, some often forgotten, and remember to keep in mind any theme you would like running through the day. Keep in mind the season and particular favourites you’d like to include. Your florist will always be happy to advise.
Flowers can be a major expense in your wedding budget so talk to your florist, make sure they understand your requirements and wishes and make sure they know your budget so you can work together for the best results!
During the week you might be stuck in a uniform or an office dress code, but at the weekend you can let your inner fashionista free. However, a wedding is not the place to debut those $200 ripped jeans as your latest “investment piece.” But you knew that already, didn’t you?
Some wedding fashion rules are obvious (no, a bikini will always be a no no, even at a beach wedding), other rules may be a little murkier. Maybe your dress is a little short, or perhaps you accidentally matched the bridesmaids colours. There are many ways to turn into a wedding-day eyesore, but you don’t have to be that guest. Follow this list of 10 things you should never wear to a wedding, and you’ll keep getting invited.
Now, let’s start with a controversial topic: Can you wear black to a wedding?
Yes, tuxedos are black, and yes, you’ll see plenty of dark suits at a wedding. But historically, black has been a bit of a fashion faux pas for women. It’s the universal colour of mourning, and unless you're sad to still be single, it's best to pick something alternative.
That being said, rules change. A chic black cocktail dress or an elegant gown? Totally fine for an evening event. But if your dress looks more “funeral” than “festive,” swap it for something with a little more joyful.
Weddings are romantic, and you might be hoping to catch the eye of that cute groomsman, but you’re not at a nightclub. If your dress has people wondering , it’s best to rethink your choice.
A little leg? Not a problem. A low neckline? Fine to a degree. But be aware.
We don’t care how “casual” the wedding is—jeans and a T-shirt are not appropriate. Even if the wedding is in a backyard or local hospo venue you really must put in some effort.
A sundress, dress pants, or at least a nice button-down top or dress? Much more appropriate.
Unless the dress code says "black tie," wearing a tux is overkill. The only guy who should be seen in a full penguin suit is the groom (and maybe his groomsmen).
If you’re overdressed, the groom probably won’t be as upset as an upstaged bride but don’t look like you are trying to outshine the man of the hour. A well-tailored suit will be just fine.
You may love that good vintage look, but some outfits should stay in the past, at least when you go to a wedding unless theme appropriate. However, a classic 1960s pencil skirt is fine but a pair of bellbottoms? Perhaps not.
Weddings are about timeless romance, not time-travelled fashion. So, unless the invitation actually says "70s Disco Theme", leave it for this occasion.
You’d think this wouldn’t need to be said, but here we are. Under no circumstances should you wear a tiara to a wedding unless you are the bride, or five years old.
This rule also extends to any other inappropriate headwear such as crowns, decorative headbands or anything else that may give you that regal look! The only person getting the royal treatment should be the bride.
Unless this wedding is at a palace, or ballgowns have been requested you do not need to look like Cinderella.
Formal weddings call for elegant attire, but be wary of the fine line between looking great and being mistaken for the bride! If a ballgown is appropriate avoid white, champagne, or blush and pick something less bridal.
You’re at a wedding, not a corporate meeting. Whilst pantsuits can be chic, and if you feel your best in trousers, go for it but just make sure your look says “fashionable wedding guest” and not “ready to close that deal.” A stylish jumpsuit or flowy wide-leg pants will look sophisticated without looking like you’re striding down the halls of power.
Neon colors, head to toe sequins, a hat whose brim could be used to serve the banquet. All would be a no, no! if your clothing makes more of a statement than the wedding couple just don’t do it!
Weddings are, of course, a great excuse to dress up, but it’s not a one-woman fashion show. If your look is overly eye-catching, tone it down.
And of course, the golden rule of wedding fashion: Never wear white.
Unless the bride has explicitly requested an all-white dress code (highly unlikely), avoid anything that could look like a wedding dress.
If white is your go to colour, perhaps another shade, an ivory, cream or champagne. But also check as not all brides where pure white. If you can try to avoid the dilemma altogether!
Weddings are about celebrating love, not turning heads in your direction, unless you are the bride. If you stick to these basic rules you’ll ensure all eyes focus where they should on the happy couple. Plus, you’ll keep getting invites instead of wondering what you did so wrong (unless you already know!)
Retirement living is about more than money.
Financial planners tell us to start thinking about retirement living decades before we're ready to retire, and it's good to make a retirement planning checklist about five years before your retirement date.
While you're thinking about how much money you'll need in retirement, think about what you want your life to look like, and how you want to feel.
Make life plans. It's important to plan for the non-financial aspect of retirement living by considering what will make you happy. Maybe you’ll climb Mt. Kilimanjaro, go dog sledding in Alaska, make time to write that novel you've been thinking about, or even continue to work part-time. Make a life plan and tick off your experiences as you move ahead.
Find a purpose. When making your retirement living plan, look for things you can do on an on-going basis that bring you joy and add structure to your life. This can include travel, hobbies or even training for a new career.
Keep your mind sharp. "Use it or lose it" applies to your brain. If you feel the need to replace the intellectual stimulation you found at work, try learning a foreign language or a musical instrument, or join a book club. Lifelong learning offers many opportunities to keep your mind sharp. How about checking out the lifelong learning classes offered by your local community centre or college?
Volunteer. Getting involved in your community is a great way to give back, and it's a wonderful opportunity to interact with people and make new friends.
Develop new friendships. A measurement of whether people are successful at retirement living is the strength of their social network - that includes family and friends. Check out groups that help you meet new people or join community or religious organisations that have members who share your interests. It's possible to meet people and make new friends even if it's difficult to get around. Did you know that friendship helps to increase longevity?
Ask your spouse or partner. If you live with someone or have a close partner, retirement living becomes a shared experience. It's important to make time for you and your partner to both share your dreams—you might be pleasantly surprised to learn that your partner wants to join you on that Mt. Kilimanjaro climb, and he or she may have ideas you'll enjoy.
Increase your financial stability. If you can’t afford to retire yet, what about partial retirement? This can include working part-time in your current job or finding a retirement job that's new and interesting—and will also help you earn money.
Keep your spirits up. The life changes that come with retirement living can be challenging, but your attitude plays a big part in whether you'll find happiness in retirement living or not. Check in with yourself to assess your mood; if you feel sad or hopeless it's important to see your doctor or a professional. Learn the signs of senior depression (or ask a friend or family member to assess your mood) and don't be afraid to ask for help.
Remain healthy. With increasing life spans, retirement living can be a long race, so get yourself in shape. That means eating well, watching your weight and staying active. When you feel good, it's easier to stay positive and open to new experiences.
Tips courtesy of Joan Carter, co-founder of Life Options Institute, USA
The Hibiscus Coast has had a reputation in the past of being a place to head to and enjoy your retirement. Whilst this is not the case so much nowadays, it doesn't detract from the fact that it really is a retirees slice of paradise and there are locals who can help make your retirement great to enjoy up here!
If you are looking for a retirement home/village then there is an abundance of choices on the Coast. Some with full care facilities, some designed as separate houses or villas within a community and pretty much all offering plenty of things to do and good company so you never need feel alone. Check out our Hibiscus Coast retirement home/village options.
Whilst it may sound a little gloomy, one service you will want to ensure can look after you locally it is a funeral director and funeral home and we have a number here on the Coast including the caring team at Forrest Funeral Services with branches in both Orewa and Browns Bay. These are the people you shouldn't just turn to when you need them but in your retirement you can help your loved ones be prepared for when the time comes by pre-planning your funeral and even pre-paying expenses and recording your own personal funeral choices to ease the financial burden on those you leave behind. A little bit of planning can mean a lot at the end of the day.
If you need medical or health care on the Coast there are also services to suit all needs including hearing services such as the personalised and caring services offered by Hear Again. Family run and operated they offer all hearing services including in-home hearing tests and all accessories etc for hearing aids.
Whether you are looking for an Optician, Dentist, Chiropractor, Doctor/Medical Centre or more you can find a wide selection of services in our Health, Beauty, Medical and Wellbeing directory section.
Enjoy staying fit in your retirement? There are a wide range of classes and activities on offer at Stanmore Bay Pool and Leisure Centre including special senior classes if you are after these and also special senior pricing.
Northern Arena also offer senior activities and pricing with their Silver Sneakers and Silver Sneakers Flexi membership options. Check these out.
Of course, if you are looking for a club or group to join we link you to a wide variety of local community services, health services, Leisure Clubs and Sports Clubs or if you are looking for a sporting activity you can also find information on everything from fishing, golf, swimming and more in our Sport and Recreation section.
Enjoy dining out or your morning coffee fix? Why not check out and challenge yourself to try a range of our great local restaurants, cafes, bars and bakeries!
Or if you like to just get out and about in our great outdoors you can find details on local beaches, walks, cycleways, parks and more in our Leisure Section.
There's certainly no shortage of things to do and services to suit retirees here on the Hibiscus Coast!
Has your child ever asked you this question? And what was your answer? Here are a few facts and arguments you can use in the future.
When learning many can't understand the benefits of maths beyond the basic calculation of daily things. However maths is important in all aspects of our lives.
Maths equips us with many tools including -
Maths develops the imagination and trains us to be able to think clearly. Maths is also important in the development of language. You would be amazed at how often the language of maths crops up in your daily conversations; talking about time, money, temperature, technology, planning trips, shopping, cooking, designing plans ...
Mathematics is important in many everyday employment situations, science and technology, medicine, the economy, the environment and development, and in public decision-making. Think of the jobs that require maths these include doctors, teachers, scientists, engineers, technology services, lawyers, marketing, building, designers just to name a few.
Maths is invariably used, and often without realisation, to find the right concepts and methods to make difficult things easy, to explaining why a situation is how it is. By using maths skills you develop language and insights into our understanding and appreciation of the world.
Maths isn't just numbers and is all about patterns too. Imagine a fashion designer trying to develop a concept without maths abilities!
Increasingly, employers are looking for graduates with strong skills in reasoning and problem solving.
Finally of course we all have a computer nowadays and, of course, the computer itself is a machine built upon the principles of mathematics.
So whilst you may think you don't use maths or hate the subject, just imagine how you would get on calculating your change at the shop if you used cash, working out if you can afford that much anticipated trip, reading your bank statement or baking that cake if you had no, or very limited, concept and knowledge of that often dreaded subject - mathematics!
While sunscreen is essential for protecting your skin during the warmer months, your eyes also need care. With more time spent outdoors in the summer, studies show that prolonged sun exposure can increase the risk of cataracts, age-related macular degeneration, and even eye cancers.
UV radiation, whether from the sun or artificial indoor sources, can harm the surface tissues, cornea, and lens of the eye. Many are unaware of the dangers UV light poses to eye health. However, by wearing UV-blocking sunglasses, you can lower your risk of developing serious eye conditions and still enjoy the summer. Protecting your eyes early in life helps prevent long-term damage from cumulative UV exposure.
Here are key tips to protect your eyes from the sun:
• Choose sunglasses that block UV rays: Don’t judge a pair by their color or price. UV protection isn’t determined by how dark the lenses are or their cost.
• Ensure full UVA and UVB coverage: Look for sunglasses that block 100% of both UVA and UVB rays.
• Go for wraparound styles: Sunglasses that wrap around to your temples provide extra protection, blocking UV rays from the sides.
• Add a hat for extra coverage: A broad-brimmed hat shields your eyes from additional sunlight.
• Don’t depend solely on contact lenses: Even if your contact lenses have UV protection, you should still wear sunglasses to fully safeguard your eyes.
• Don’t be fooled by cloudy skies: UV rays can penetrate through haze and thin clouds. Sun damage can happen any time of year, so wear sunglasses whenever you're outdoors.
• Avoid direct sun exposure: Looking directly at the sun, especially during an eclipse, can cause permanent eye damage, including solar retinopathy.
• Be mindful during peak sun hours: UV rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. If you need to be outside, make sure to wear sunglasses and a hat for extra protection.
• Protect everyone in the family: UV damage affects people of all ages, so be sure to protect the eyes of children and seniors, too.
Enjoy the summer sun, but remember to safeguard your eyes while you’re outdoors!
When exam season arrives, it's time to focus and dive into studying - but it’s easy to get stuck in procrastination. Where should you start? How can you retain all that information? Here are some key study tips to help you succeed.
Following these study tips can lead to stronger exam performance and reduced stress.
Also check out our blog post: Study Tips for Better Learning
Though eyebrows may seem like a small detail, they make a big impact on your overall appearance. Defined, well-shaped brows can enhance facial symmetry, frame the eyes, and give a polished, balanced look. Recently, eyebrow trends have boomed, showcasing everything from natural, bushy brows to bold, structured arches. So, why focus on defining your eyebrows, and what difference does it make in your beauty routine? Let’s explore the transformative power of well-groomed brows.
Eyebrows play a primary role in framing the face, creating a visual structure that highlights key features like the eyes, nose, and lips. Well-groomed brows emphasize your natural contours, giving a more harmonious look. Many makeup artists view brows as the “anchor” of a look, subtly guiding how the rest of your features are perceived.
Tip: A defined arch can add structure to a round face, while a straighter brow can soften an angular one.
The eyes are often the face’s focal point, and defined brows bring attention to them. Whether going for a bold, glamorous style or a more natural vibe, defined brows enhance your eyes' shape and brightness. Shaped brows create a lifting effect, making eyes appear larger and more open.
Tip: For an instant lift, focus on defining the brow arch. Filling in sparse areas also helps your eyes look more awake, even on minimal makeup days.
Symmetry is a cornerstone of perceived beauty, and eyebrows are key to achieving balance in facial proportions. Since brows are naturally uneven, defining them allows you to create the illusion of symmetry. Even subtle adjustments can give a more balanced look.
Tip: Use brow tools like pencils, powders, or gels to create symmetrical brows, and follow your natural shape for the most flattering effect.
Well-defined brows can elevate your confidence. Whether you’re preparing for a big meeting, a date, or just your day, knowing your brows are on point helps you feel more polished. Even with minimal makeup, well-groomed brows add a refined touch.
Tip: Investing in professional brow shaping or learning to shape your brows at home provides a foundation for consistently great brows, boosting confidence.
No makeup look is complete without defined brows. Whether you prefer a natural style or a bold, dramatic approach, brows tie the entire look together. Even stunning eye makeup can seem unfinished without brow definition, while defined brows add balance and a polished finish.
Tip: For a bold look, use an angled brush and brow pomade for structured brows. For natural days, a tinted brow gel or pencil gives a soft enhancement.
Brows play a major role in expressing emotions. Whether raising an eyebrow in surprise or furrowing them in thought, your brows shape how emotions are perceived. Defined, shaped brows help clarify expressions and can soften or emphasize your look.
Tip: Softer brows create an approachable look, while sharper brows offer a stronger, assertive style. Adjust your brow style to match your personality or the impression you want to give.
Every face is unique, and brows tailored to your features accentuate your best attributes. A one-size-fits-all brow style doesn’t work for everyone; a shape that complements a round face may not suit an angular one.
Tip: Work with a professional or use a guide to find your ideal brow shape. For instance, a slight arch can elongate a round face, while a softer brow complements angular features.
If your brows are sparse or uneven, defining them can create a fuller, balanced look. Gaps from over-plucking, aging, or genetics can be filled in with the right products, giving a youthful, cohesive appearance.
Tip: Choose products that match your natural hair color, and use short, hair-like strokes to fill in gaps for a natural effect.
Defining your eyebrows enhances natural beauty, boosts symmetry, raises confidence, and elevates your look. From soft and natural to bold and structured, well-groomed brows are a beauty essential. With the right tools and techniques, you can create the perfect brows to frame your face, highlight your features, and give you a polished, put-together look every day.
For all your beauty needs check out the services offered by Queens Beauty, 745 Whangaparaoa Road, Stanmore Bay - Whangaparaoa - Ph: 021-133-6379 - Email: alyabeautynz@gmail.com - Web: https://queensbeauty.co.nz
Whilst this post is focused on babies, of course, the benefits of swimming apply to all of us, no matter our age!
When you actually stop and think about it, there is a wide range of benefits available to babies and children who are taught to swim in a gentle, gradual pace. If you speak to any parent who has put their children in swimming lessons from a very early age, chances are that they witnessed first-hand the many examples of mental, physical, emotional, developmental, and social benefits that result from teaching their children to swim.
First of all, a weekly swimming lesson is often a child’s first social experience out of the home that involves their peers. They learn to relate and interact with each other and look forward to seeing their classmates each week, and even watch them for cues when it comes to taking risks and learning something new. Early swimming also fosters a growing sense of self-esteem, confidence and independence, and as a child’s ability to freely move through the water increases - so does their sense of wellbeing.
For the right people, in the right situation, baby swimming can also nurture a special new connection to family, community and to the outer world. Time spent having fun and learning new things in the pool is an ideal opportunity for parent and child bonding in a relaxed and fun environment that they will both love being a part of. Social skills and self esteem are developed through interaction with other children and positive encouragement from parents and any other family who watch them at swimming time, and your child will develop a trusting relationship with you at the same time. When parents are spending time face-to-face, skin-to-skin with their babies in the water, it is a very special time for both parties. Their bond increases through the swimming lessons and parents can also exercise their patience, encouragement and kindness toward their little one. They will also learn more and more about their little person’s growing personality and how they approach new situations as they are challenged more and more.
Swimming allows babies to move independently before they are able to on dry land, which is vital to creating happy little people. Babies can learn trust and boost their confidence and self-esteem through their swimming lessons, especially as they grow and do more and more on their own. Swimming can be very empowering for babies, since it offers them a new sense of freedom as well as a way to play and explore the brand new world around them in a truly fun and relaxing way.
Based in Silverdale, Northern Arena has four cutting-edge, heated pools – all indoors. The pools are treated by ultra violet light similar to the way drinking water is treated, allowing for a low level of chlorine that makes them ideal for babies and those with sensitive skin. All of their lessons are designed to be fun as well as educational, enhancing enjoyment and confidence in the water.
Have a think about popping your child in the water – you’ll be helping them on the way to knowing how to save themselves in the water, increase their learning ability and have a lot of fun while they’re at it!
Northern Arena offer a full range of SwimFit classes for all ages and abilities - check out the options online
Ph: 09-421-9700 - Email: info@northernarena.co.n - Web: northernarena.co.nz
For the love of beauty … All of us can either spend a fortune or find remedies in the kitchen cupboard. Here are some interesting tips, some are practical, some great money savers and others just plain unusual Enjoy!
Nix Post-Shaving Redness - Shave your face, legs or underarms in the shower after standing under warm water for a few minutes. This will help open up hair follicles and will soften hairs so they're less coarse to shave.
Apply Mascara To Fake Lashes - This will help fake lashes blend in more seamlessly with your natural ones.
Keep It On - When using cream-based beauty products - like lipstick or foundation - apply a dry face powder on top to seal in your look.
Find Your Shade - When choosing a foundation, test a product on the skin near your jawline. And be sure to do it in natural light. This will ensure the foundation tone you choose for your face isn't too different from the natural shade of your neck
Cracked Heal Remedy - Apply nappy rash cream to help heal cracked elbows and feet. The moisturisers and anti-inflamatory ingredients help hydrate and repair the skin.
Remove Nail Polish Without Remover - If you run out of nail polish remover, you can remove nail polish by applying a clear top coat to the nail and removing it quickly with a cotton ball.
Treat Ingrown Hairs - Apply a product containing witch hazel to help reduce the swelling and redness, then coax the ingrown hair from its location with a pair of tweezers (don't pull it out as this will only make the ingrown hair regrow the same way later).
For Greasy Hair - Avoid applying conditioner directly to your hair's roots - just apply the heavy moisturizing cream to the ends of your hair
Sunburn Remedy - Take a warm bath in VERY strong black tea -- the tannins take away the sting and swelling
Dry Out Pimples - Dabbing toothpaste onto a pimple is a quick and easy way to help dry it out
Give Curls Bounce - Never brush curls out with a brush. Instead, loosen them with your fingers. This will give curls added lift without flattening them down.
Use Oil On Your Skin - Even If is is already oily. While it sounds mad using an oil-based product to remove makeup or excess dirt from your skin can actually improve your epidermis' condition. Why? Over-cleaning stimulates the sebum glands, which causes skin to over-produce oil. Using oil-based products will have the opposite effect.
Linku2 take no responsibility for any outcome from use of any of these tips or whether they really work but guess they are always worth a try – we are just the messenger. Sources include Total Beauty, Huffington Post and Women’s Day.
So it's time for a detox? Feeling sluggish, need to drop those couple of kilos or just need a really good pick me up. So how does detoxifying work?
Detoxifying is a cleansing of your blood and nourishing the body from the inside. Toxins are eliminated and nutrients replaced.
There are a number of things you can do when you detoxify your body but start with the obvious. Eliminate certain items including alcohol, cigarettes, caffine, processed foods saturated fats, refined sugars and cut down on (or give up) meat.
If you are not following a specific programme you should make sure you eat plenty of fibre. Brown rice and organic fresh fruits and vegetables and great.
Make sure you are drinking plenty of water. At least 2 litres a day should really be a normal intake, however, is vitally important during a detox to help flush your system out. Add a little fresh lemon juice.
Drink tea. Not only is it full of antioxidants but great as a thirst quencher. Herbal teas are usually the best option with green tea excellent in a detox.
Juicing is a popular form of detoxifying. Fresh organic fruit and vegetables are recommended. Green vegetable juice is good because they are rich in chlorophyll, which is said to help cleanse and heal the digestive tract.
Other juices good for a juice fast include celery, carrot, cabbage, apple, spinach, beets, and leafy greens. Remember to remove the stones in peaches, apricots, cherries and other fruit, apple seeds, carrot and rhubarb tops, and tough skins of kiwi, pineapple and mangos should be avoided.
Take care of the outside of your body too.
Make sure you exercise and sweat! Sweating is one of the body's natural ways of removing toxins. Whether through exercise or in a sauna you will feel better although be careful with the amount and type of exercise if on a strict detox programme.
Take deep breaths allowing oxygen to circulate throughout your system better.
Yoga is known for it's ability to detox by putting pressure on certain internal organs as well as helping to relieve stress being one of the major causes for needing to detox!
Exfoliating your skin is great to help remove toxins through your pores.
Get more sleep. Relax for at least an hour before you go to bed and drink a cup of camomile tea or other herbal sleep enhancing formula. Take time to relax your mind and try to get at least one extra hour than you normally do.
A massage can often be beneficial such as a Swedish massage, lymphatic drainage, deep tissue massage or Thai massage although do make sure you advise your massage therapist you are on a detox programme.
Other treatments suggested to benefit in a detox include colonics and hydrotherapy showers (5 minute very hot shower running over your back, 30 seconds cold water x 3 times followed by a complete relax in bed for 30 minutes)
However you decide to detox your body, do it carefully, follow the basic rules and you will come out cleansed and feeling like a million dollars!
Disclaimer: Our online business directory lists over 2,200 local businesses however be aware it is an almost impossible task for this to always be completely up-to-date so please use as a guide only - if you find any discrepancies please let us know on hibiscuscoast@linku2.co.nz - thank you!
When it comes to property it can be daunting. It doesn't matter whether you are looking at buying or selling a property, up-sizing or down-sizing, investing for your future, doing a few touch ups round the house or garden, considering a whole new build or just need a little maintenance or tender loving care it's all going to cost money and you want to get it right!
That's where you are in luck on the Coast as, you may not believe it, but construction is our biggest industry, and we have all the local experts you need to help and, if you are buying or selling, being the second highest most populated area (and continuing to grow rapidly) in Auckland, there's no lack of properties available and agents to help you find what you want!
First and foremost you can find all types of local businesses in the Property Section of our Linku2 Hibiscus Coast business directory, whether you're looking for a bricklayer, hedge trimmer, lighting store, mortgage broker, security service or more ...
It doesn't matter whether you are a first home buyer, a growing family, want to downsize for retirement or sell to free up funds, you will need to ensure you seek the services of a few experienced people along the way.
When looking for a real estate company or agent there are a few pointers you can follow including their experience in the area you are selling in or hoping to buy in. Check out local options in our directory Real Estate category and one recommendation who knows the Coast well, as well as having a background in marketing is Tim Hansen (As noted above this list is by no means comprehensive or completely up-to-date but a guide - it's an ever changing industry and many agents aren't listed)!!
As well as help from an agent you may also need to consider finance. Remember don't just call your local bank and expect to get the best deal. The best option is to contact a mortgage broker who can help and probably save you a lot of money (and perhaps heartache) in the process.
First Rate Mortgages based in Orewa can help you with not just home loans and finance but can also focus on arranging business finance, residential or commercial property investment, construction finance, refinancing, and debt consolidation. Alongside First Rate, their sister company NonBk Ltd "Solving Problems with Solutions" can be a great option to call upon if you are self-employed, looking for second mortgages or maybe have a bit of a financial past that may rear it's head if you're not careful! Check out what they can do for you or contact them on 09-426-8927 or info@firstratemortgages.co.nz or solutions@nonbank.co.nz depending on the service you need.
Another option is iLender based in Whangaparaoa, Jeff is a "Financial Paramedic" and as he advises, "When looking for home finance seek out an experienced Mortgage Adviser who can look at all of the bank and non bank options so you can go looking for a new home with confidence. Local business iLender has helped 100's of people over the years (read their reviews) and Jeff Royle is happy to discuss any situation either over the phone or pop into the office in Karepiro Drive. A lot of people get knocked back by their bank and think that's the end of the line. It is not! Jeff and his team cover all lending options ensuring that you get the best possible advice. 09-428-5333 or help@ilender.co.nz"
Check out a comprehensive local list of mortgage brokers and financial services.
You may also be wise to consult your accountant, especially if this is an investment property or you need help with Kiwisaver withdrawals. If you don't have an accountant you may want to have a chat with Gerard at Turnbull & Associates in Whangaparaoa or check out our comprehensive list of local accountants and bookkeepers.
Again if you are looking at buying new off a house and land package, organising your own build, want to do some upgrades to your home or garden or just need to get some maintenance done you don't need to look far to find a local expert.
If you want to ramp up the security at your place then you need to talk to Jason at King Locksmiths who can ensure your place and your valuables are safe and secure and advise on the best systems and management for your pace of mind, or, if it's an alarm system or maintenance you're after give Trevor a call at TDS Security.
If it's garden maintenance you're after you'll want to check out our Landscape and Garden Services and Products category or you may need the services of an arborist or hedge trimmer! That garden really can be a haven to enjoy once you give it that makeover!
And if all you feel is important to get done is a good house clean and, especially if you have a wish to be friendly to our environment then you can guarantee the best cleaning products are available right here on the Coast from Stephanie at Insinc Products.
There has been, and continues to be, so much development across the Hibiscus Coast so if you're looking for a local you can check out our directory categories for all services such as Builders and Developers, Property Maintenance, Bathroom and Kitchen Design Services, Plumbers, Storage, Carpet Retailers, Pool and Spa Services and everything in between in our Property Section.
Regardless of what it is you need or should be doing locally make sure you stay and use our great locals so we can all help each other to Go Local, Grow Local ...
Decorating - Colour Schemes - Bring a Taste of Tuscany into your Home Renovation - Checklist When Buying a House - 10 Tips on How to Fix a Tired Property: How to Prepare Your House for Sale - Tips and Tricks for Avoiding Lockouts from Your House or Car
When purchasing an existing house, there are several key things you should check. Here’s a summary:
Ask the agent and seller about any known issues with the house. They have a duty of care to research and disclose any matters that could be of concern.
Inspect the house thoroughly, paying special attention to:
You should also pay attention and look for any signs of potential leaking, eg:
You should also:
Do not sign the contract until you are sure it meets your needs and all concerns have been addressed.
