I grew up in the humid hills of Zululand among mavericks who started newspapers and spoke to elephants. An unexpected English scholarship propelled me to Rhodes University, where I qualified as an English and History teacher, before plying my trade in London, Vietnam, and Thailand. Returning to home soil in 2010, I inevitably pivoted to journalism, joining Durban’s Northglen News and later the Daily News, reporting on everything from potholes to politics. Motherhood turned me freelance, joining Safrea and swapping newsroom chaos for client deadlines.

Lauren Anthony

Lauren Anthony

City Expert, Time Out South Africa

Articles (24)

The best toy shops in Durban

The best toy shops in Durban

Christmas is just around the corner, and if you're shopping for little ones, some of the best gifts can be found in smaller toy shops. It doesn't matter if you're shopping for a curious toddler, a budding builder, a creative kid... or even a grown-up who still loves their action figures... Durban and surrounds have a few gems worth exploring. These local stores offer a range of toys and collectables, varying in price. If you're looking for something a little different to put under the tree this year, why not try one of these? TIME OUT DURBAN RECOMMENDS: 📍 The best things to do in Durban 🍽  The best restaurants in Durban 🏨 The best hotels in Durban 🛏️ Where to stay in Durban 📢 Latest news from Durban Follow Time Out Durban on Instagram, Facebook and TikTok! To get the coolest news, features, and things to do straight to your inbox, sign up for our newsletter. This guide was written by Lauren Anthony, a writer based in Durban. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines.
What’s on in Durban this November!

What’s on in Durban this November!

November is shaping up to be a busy one if you're keen to get out and about around Durban and beyond. Catch South African music legends live, sing along to 90s anthems, browse the latest outdoor gear, cheer on triathletes along the Golden Mile, or spend an evening under the full moon on the beach. There’s plenty for theatre lovers, too, with dark comedy, Shakespeare and local performers taking to the stage, while the social calendar includes a new waterfront gathering and a women’s wellness experience. Whether you’re planning a night out with friends, a family activity or a weekend escape to the Midlands, get your diary ready. Here’s what’s happening around KZN this November. READ: The Durban bucket list worth getting out for TIME OUT DURBAN RECOMMENDS: 📍 The best things to do in Durban🍽  The best restaurants in Durban🏨 The best hotels in Durban🛏️ Where to stay in Durban📢 Latest news from Durban Follow Time Out Durban on Instagram, Facebook and TikTok! To get the coolest news, features, and things to do straight to your inbox, sign up for our newsletter. This guide was written by Lauren Anthony, a writer based in Durban. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines.
The best beaches in Durban

The best beaches in Durban

If there’s one thing Durban does exceptionally well, it’s beach days. With warm weather, golden sand and a coastline stretching from the North Coast to the South Coast, there’s no shortage of places to soak up some sunshine. Whether you’re planning a family outing, looking for a tidal pool where little ones can splash about, keen to catch some waves or simply after a peaceful spot to unwind, Durban and its surrounds have a beach for you. With summer on its way, here are some of the best beaches in Durban and beyond to add to your sunny-day plans. NOTE: Always check that lifeguards are on duty and ensure conditions are safe for swimming before heading out. READ: Blue Flag beaches in Durban TIME OUT DURBAN RECOMMENDS: 📍 The best things to do in Durban 🍽  The best restaurants in Durban 🏨 The best hotels in Durban 🛏️ Where to stay in Durban 📢 Latest news from Durban Follow Time Out Durban on Instagram, Facebook and TikTok! To get the coolest news, features, and things to do straight to your inbox, sign up for our newsletter.
Best vegetarian restaurants in Durban

Best vegetarian restaurants in Durban

Durban is catching up with other major metros in vegetarian dining, with an increasingly tasty selection of restaurants serving proper meat-free meals. We selected some of the best Italian restaurants, Turkish eateries, beachside cafés, and KZN Midlands spots where you can find plenty of vegetarian options beyond the usual salad. Disclaimer: Not all the restaurants in this article are strictly vegetarian, but do cater for the vegetarian population on their menus. READ: The Durban bucket list worth getting out for TIME OUT DURBAN RECOMMENDS: 📍 The best things to do in Durban🍽  The best restaurants in Durban🏨 The best hotels in Durban🛏️ Where to stay in Durban📢 Latest news from Durban Follow Time Out Durban on Instagram, Facebook and TikTok! To get the coolest news, features, and things to do straight to your inbox, sign up for our newsletter. This guide was written by Lauren Anthony, a writer based in Durban. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines.
Where to get breast screening in Durban

Where to get breast screening in Durban

Regular breast health checks and appropriate screening help you identify changes that might need further investigation. Early detection is vital because breast cancer is generally easier to treat when diagnosed early. This Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we’ve rounded up local organisations and healthcare providers that can help you access breast health education, clinical breast examinations and, where appropriate, diagnostic imaging. Screening options vary: a clinical breast examination is not the same as a mammogram. If you notice a lump, nipple changes, or another concerning symptom, get checked by a healthcare professional rather than waiting for a routine screening appointment. READ: Breast Cancer Awareness Month events in Durban this October   TIME OUT DURBAN RECOMMENDS: 📍 The best things to do in Durban 🍽  The best restaurants in Durban 🏨 The best hotels in Durban 🛏️ Where to stay in Durban 📢 Latest news from Durban Follow Time Out Durban on Instagram, Facebook and TikTok! To get the coolest news, features, and things to do straight to your inbox, sign up for our newsletter. This guide was written by Lauren Anthony, a writer based in Durban. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines.
Blue Flag beaches in Durban

Blue Flag beaches in Durban

When it comes to choosing beaches, there’s one sure sign you’re in the right spot – the Blue Flag! The internationally recognised Blue Flag award, managed in South Africa by the Wildlife & Environment Society of South Africa (WESSA), recognises beaches that meet high standards for water quality, safety, environmental management, amenities, and conservation education. This season, a flood of Blue Flags have fluttered onto KZN beaches, and with summer approaching, these are a good place to start your holiday plans. Once again, the KZN South Coast leads the province with 11 full-status Blue Flag beaches, while the KZN North Coast welcomed four this season. Five beaches have joined the full-status list for 2026/2027, with several other sites earning pilot status as they work towards meeting the programme’s requirements. If you’re planning a seaside escape, here are the KwaZulu-Natal beaches to know about. NOTE: Always check that lifeguards are on duty and ensure conditions are safe for swimming before heading out. READ: The Durban bucket list worth getting out for TIME OUT DURBAN RECOMMENDS: 📍 The best things to do in Durban 🍽  The best restaurants in Durban 🏨 The best hotels in Durban 🛏️ Where to stay in Durban 📢 Latest news from Durban Follow Time Out Durban on Instagram, Facebook and TikTok! To get the coolest news, features, and things to do straight to your inbox, sign up for our newsletter. This guide was written by Lauren Anthony, a writer based in Durban. At Time Ou
The best summer festivals in Durban

The best summer festivals in Durban

Summertime is when everyone descends on Durban for some seaside fun, sunshine and a chance to let loose! With its warm weather, coastal setting and lively music scene, the city knows how to bring people together when the festive season rolls around. This year’s summer festivals are a great way to experience this coastal gem, with something for everyone. Whether you’re keen to dance to Amapiano and Gqom, discover contemporary African sounds or celebrate the end of your school years, there are plenty of dates to put in your diary. Here are the summer festivals happening in Durban and surrounds in 2026, listed in date order. READ: The KZN holiday deals worth booking before they disappear TIME OUT DURBAN RECOMMENDS: 📍 The best things to do in Durban 🍽  The best restaurants in Durban 🏨 The best hotels in Durban 🛏️ Where to stay in Durban 📢 Latest news from Durban Follow Time Out Durban on Instagram, Facebook and TikTok! To get the coolest news, features, and things to do straight to your inbox, sign up for our newsletter. This guide was written by Lauren Anthony, a writer based in Durban. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines.  
Breast Cancer Awareness Month events in Durban this October

Breast Cancer Awareness Month events in Durban this October

October has turned Durban pink, with communities getting involved in a number of events that support Breast Cancer Awareness Month. This is an important cause to rally behind, and if you don't know how to get involved, then we've got you covered! Here are some of the Breast Cancer Awareness Month events you can support this month. READ: Events: What’s on in Durban TIME OUT DURBAN RECOMMENDS: 📍 The best things to do in Durban🍽  The best restaurants in Durban🏨 The best hotels in Durban🛏️ Where to stay in Durban📢 Latest news from Durban Follow Time Out Durban on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok! To get the coolest news, features, and things to do straight to your inbox, sign up for our newsletter.
Best Halloween events in Durban

Best Halloween events in Durban

Halloween is creeping up on Durban, and the city and surrounding KZN spots are getting into the spooky spirit. There's a family-friendly night of trick-or-treating, a proper horror experience, or an excuse to dress up and dance until the witching hour. Whatever your fear factor, there's something spooky out there for you! From Howick to Ballito and Durban North, here are the Halloween events to know about this October. TIME OUT DURBAN RECOMMENDS: 📍 The best things to do in Durban🍽  The best restaurants in Durban🏨 The best hotels in Durban🛏️ Where to stay in Durban📢 Latest news from Durban Follow Time Out Durban on Instagram, Facebook and TikTok! To get the coolest news, features, and things to do straight to your inbox, sign up for our newsletter.
Best ladies' night specials in and around Durban

Best ladies' night specials in and around Durban

There’s nothing more uplifting than a night out with the girls! It could be for a well-overdue catch-up, a celebration of a milestone, or really just an excuse to get dressed up and have a night on the town.  If you’re planning a ladies’ night out in Durban, we’ve found a few great specials on offer to try.  📍 The best things to do in Durban🍽  The best restaurants in Durban🏨 The best hotels in Durban🛏️ Where to stay in Durban📢 Latest news from Durban Follow Time Out Durban on Instagram, Facebook and TikTok! To get the coolest news, features, and things to do straight to your inbox, sign up for our newsletter.
The best thrift shops in Durban.

The best thrift shops in Durban.

There is something deeply satisfying about thrift shopping. You never quite know what you are going to find on any given day.  It could be a designer dress hiding among the rails, a vintage record you haven't seen in years, a perfect piece of furniture, a stack of books you absolutely do not need, or an inexplicably wonderful ornament that somehow has to come home with you. And then there is the other bonus: buying pre-loved means giving something a second life, whether you're refreshing your wardrobe, furnishing a home or simply looking for something a little different. Plus, it’s the environmentally friendly option! Durban’s charity shops are packed with unexpected treasures, with specialist second-hand stores and pop-up fashion fairs to explore across the city.  Here are some of the best places to start your thrift-shopping adventure. TIME OUT DURBAN RECOMMENDS: 📍 The best things to do in Durban🍽  The best restaurants in Durban🏨 The best hotels in Durban🛏️ Where to stay in Durban📢 Latest news from Durban Follow Time Out Durban on Instagram, Facebook and TikTok! To get the coolest news, features, and things to do straight to your inbox, sign up for our newsletter
Best bakeries in KZN

Best bakeries in KZN

There are few things more comforting than the smell of freshly baked bread.  It doesn’t matter if you’re just looking for the perfect sourdough for that charcuterie platter or feel like really treating yourself to something freshly baked; Durban has the spot for you.  Doughn’t waste your time… here are the freshest bakeries in town!  

News (376)

Comrades Marathon 2027 is already breaking records

Comrades Marathon 2027 is already breaking records

The countdown to the 100th Comrades Marathon is on, and the numbers are already making history! With 28 070 athletes securing entries for the 2027 race, the centenary edition will host the largest field ever – with 56 283 entries received during the three-part entry process. The Comrades Marathon Association (CMA) increased the entry cap to 28 000 to accommodate the interest, up from 22 000 in 2026 and 24 000 for the 2025 Down Run. The 2027 race takes place on Sunday, 13 June, following the Down Run route from Pietermaritzburg City Hall to the Hollywoodbets Kings Park precinct in Durban. So, who has secured a place on the start line? From the oldest entrants to the countries sending the most runners, here are some figures worth knowing. Comrades Marathon AssociationThe 2027 Comrades Marathon isn't even at the starting line yet, but it's already breaking records. READ: Comrades Marathon 2027 launch: Everything you need to know Comrades Marathon 2027 at a glance 28 070: Athletes who secured entries for the centenary race. 56 283: Entry submissions and ballot applications received. 129: Countries and territories represented, up from 81 in 2026. Almost 30%: Female entrants, the highest proportion in the race’s history. 4 271: Green Number Club entrants, up from 2 461 in 2026. READ: Comrades Marathon 2027 gets a new Kings Park finish and its biggest field yet Who’s running the centenary race? The 2027 field retains a familiar profile, with South African runners making up the m
Weather warning: Durban braces for another severe thunderstorm

Weather warning: Durban braces for another severe thunderstorm

Durban’s weather has swung between extreme heat and severe thunderstorms, and the spring outlook shows little sign of a break. Another weather warning has been issued for eThekwini for Tuesday, 27 October, with residents urged to prepare for potentially hazardous conditions. The South African Weather Service (SAWS) issued a Yellow Level 4 warning for severe thunderstorms, from 12pm to 11pm today. Heavy downpours, hail and severe lightning are expected, with the potential to cause flooding and damage infrastructure. The eThekwini Municipality’s Disaster Management and Emergency Services teams are on standby to respond to weather-related incidents across the city. eThekwini MunicipalityA severe weather warning has been issued for Durban today. What Durban residents need to know The city has urged residents to take the warning seriously, particularly those living in low-lying areas and informal settlements. Residents are advised to: Stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel from midday where possible. Never attempt to cross flooded roads, rivers or streams. Keep children away from rivers and stormwater drains. If caught in a flood while driving, abandon the vehicle if it is safe to do so and move to higher ground. Move valuables above anticipated flood levels. Avoid open spaces and tall trees during lightning. With Durban’s weather keeping residents alert, it’s best to keep an eye on SAWS updates. For updates, follow the eThekwini Municipality’s official communication channe
No more chores as Airbnb changes rules for hosts

No more chores as Airbnb changes rules for hosts

Good news for Airbnb guests. Less good news for Airbnb hosts. Great news for cleaning companies. Airbnb is ‘simplifying’ its house rules following complaints from guests about onerous checkout conditions – some of which almost amount to chores. Exactly what you’re trying to avoid on holiday! The rule changes were recently put into effect and the timing couldn't be more perfect for the upcoming festive season rush. With South Africa a holidaymaker hotspot, the updates are likely to affect a number of local Airbnb hosts – so whether you’re booking a beachfront apartment or renting out your spare room, take note. READ: Kruger National Park gets a restaurant refresh with new dining experiences Think like a guest Airbnb has seven standard rules for guests covering the number of people staying at a property, pets, smoking, quiet hours, parties or events, commercial photography, and locking up at checkout. Hosts can still add their own requests through the app, but Airbnb says this should be the exception rather than the rule. In the ‘rare instance’ that hosts have additional requests, they can add them on the app – which will flag requests considered unreasonable under Airbnb’s updated house rules policy. The platform’s advice to hosts? ‘Remember to think like a guest, and keep in mind what you’d find unreasonable’. In other words, if you wouldn’t want to spend your last morning in Umhlanga scrubbing a stovetop before racing to catch a flight, perhaps don’t ask your guests to do it
Durban Amusement Park gets the green light for the Golden Mile

Durban Amusement Park gets the green light for the Golden Mile

The Durban Golden Mile glow-up just got another boost – the Durban Amusement Park is going ahead! The proposed R980-million park got approval for project development funding from a development finance institution. This marks another significant milestone for the city, as the family entertainment attraction heads to the former Durban Funworld site. eThekwini Municipality announced that the development has completed its design stage, with technical planning now underway. Statutory development work is expected to continue until the end of the first quarter of 2027, after which construction will start. With Funworld having closed in 2023 after almost 50 years, the new park is intended to bring a permanent, ride-led attraction back to the beachfront, giving visitors another reason to make a day of the Golden Mile. eThekwini MunicipalityAn artist's rendering of the planned amusement park. READ: A R1-billion amusement park is coming to Durban’s Golden Mile What’s planned for the Durban Amusement Park? Last December we reported that the park was coming to Durban. The latest announcement confirms everything is on track! The project has been selected by the National Department of Tourism as one of its key tourism infrastructure developments. The city also showcased the project at the recent South African Tourism Investment Summit. Here’s what’s on the cards: World-class rides: A collection of major attractions designed to bring the thrill of a traditional amusement park back to the
Club Med launches filmmaking competition at its new KZN beach and safari resort

Club Med launches filmmaking competition at its new KZN beach and safari resort

Your next short film could take you from the KZN coastline to a safari lodge, with Club Med picking up the travel bill. The holiday company is looking for two emerging social media creators to join its Cinematic Residence at Club Med South Africa Beach & Safari from December 1 to 8, 2026. They’ll join two professional filmmakers for a week of filming, with each creating a short film inspired by the destination. Ishani ChettyClub Med South Africa Beach & Safari Resort sits on the Dolphin Coast at Tinley Manor. READ: South Africa's first Club Med resort officially opens on KZN's North Coast What's the creative brief? The theme centres on how people choose to spend their time when it belongs entirely to them. Club Med is looking for an original perspective, strong visual storytelling and a distinctive cinematic style. Films must run for 30 to 45 seconds and use a landscape 16:9 format. The setting offers two very different backdrops: the beach resort at Tinley Manor on the Dolphin Coast and Vikela Safari Lodge in a private Big Five reserve in northern KZN. Participants will have the freedom to interpret the destination through their own stories.   Ishani ChettyThe entrance lobby welcomes guests to Club Med South Africa Beach & Safari Resort. READ: Blue Flag beaches in Durban What's included? Travel, accommodation and meals are covered for the two selected creators. The finished films will also go to a public vote, with the winning filmmaker receiving a stay at a Club Med r
Kruger National Park gets a restaurant refresh with new dining experiences

Kruger National Park gets a restaurant refresh with new dining experiences

Kruger National Park is one of the world’s most renowned game parks, and the experience goes beyond the exciting wildlife encounters. The park’s many facilities give visitors from around the world a chance to relax and enjoy the natural setting between game drives. Now, visitors can look forward to a refreshed dining offering, with new restaurant operators appointed at several of the park’s popular camps. South African National Parks (SANParks) has confirmed that new hospitality concepts and a refurbishment are on the cards for select sites. The changes follow a competitive tender process and the expiry of previous concession agreements. READ: Fun Facts about the Kruger National Park What’s changing at Kruger’s restaurants? The new operators will introduce fresh dining concepts at selected rest camps, bringing variety to the food and hospitality offering across the park. Here’s what you can expect: Lower Sabie: The former Mugg & Bean will return as Sabie River Café. Pretoriuskop: Wimpy will be replaced by Le Lapeng Burgers and Grill. Berg-en-Dal: Tindlovu Restaurant will be transformed into Eziko Eatery. Skukuza: Cattle Baron will undergo refurbishment to deliver a refreshed look and feel. The appointments are part of SANParks’ ongoing efforts to improve visitor experiences and invest in tourism facilities. The operators are also expected to contribute to economic growth and job creation. Temporary dining facilities with limited menus will be available during refurbishment
Theatre by the Sea brings free ocean-inspired show to Durban

Theatre by the Sea brings free ocean-inspired show to Durban

Durban is renowned for being a seaside destination. This weekend, you can celebrate the city’s ocean love with a free festival, Theatre by the Sea, hosted in the open space alongside the Port Natal Maritime Museum, just off Durban’s Esplanade. Performers from KwaZulu-Natal and the Eastern Cape will come together for a day of storytelling, music, dance, and community spirit. explores the sea as a source of food, recreation, inspiration, and mystery… as well as a powerful natural force that shapes communities and cultures. There are 10 groups participating - seven from KwaZulu-Natal and three from the Eastern Cape - with performances spanning different street-theatre genres. Each act offers its own interpretation of humanity’s connection to the ocean. Shelley KjonstadTheatre at the sea - a great way to spend your Sunday! READ: The best summer festivals in Durban A show for everyone The day begins at 9am with a ritual honouring the sea, followed by a participative community clean-up around the Maritime Museum from 9am to 10am. Performances of approximately 15 minutes each will follow from 10am. The festival was conceived by twins Vuma and Vumile Madlanga, whose lives have been shaped by their proximity to the ocean, despite never having swum, paddled or submerged themselves in seawater. Zulu cultural practices suggest that twins should not engage with the sea, prompting the pair to create a space for artists to explore the cultural responses to the ocean. Shelley KjonstadDeep
Thirsty’s Dockside Tavern plans a Durban comeback in 2027

Thirsty’s Dockside Tavern plans a Durban comeback in 2027

Thirsty’s Dockside Tavern could be serving Durban diners again in 2027, roughly two decades after its original run ended. According to a report by IOL, Brett Michielin and original partner Bob Humphreys have secured a lease and are targeting March or April 2027 for the reopening, subject to licensing. For those who remember watching ships pass over a drink or a meal, the name needs little introduction. For younger Durbanites, the proposed reopening could offer a first encounter with a venue that was once part of the city’s harbour life. READ: What’s behind the Yogiberry buzz in Durban? A piece of Durban’s harbour history Thirsty’s opened in September 1995 at the old King’s Gun Battery, with Humphreys, Tony Dickinson and Tony Bolt behind the business. Its position at the harbour entrance gave customers a close view of the shipping traffic. That setting was central to its appeal, but the expansion of the port eventually brought its original run to an end. A December 2006 report recorded the planned closing date as 14 January 2007, ahead of demolition work to accommodate the widening of the harbour entrance. A reopening in early 2027 would put its return around 20 years later. A location near water is central to the pair’s plans, although the new address has not yet been confirmed.  READ: Sunrise Chip ’n Ranch (Johnny’s Rotis) A boost for Durban’s hospitality scene eThekwini MunicipalityArtist's impression of the Mojo’s Development that will soon be operational on Durban’s
Out and About in Durban: Things to do this weekend

Out and About in Durban: Things to do this weekend

Looking for something to do this weekend? We got you! With Durban a top summer destination, things are heating up as we approach year-end, which means more events on the calendar. This weekend is a great example, with everything from sports fun and musical tributes to creative classes, Oktoberfest fun, and Breast Cancer Awareness events lined up. There’s no excuse for couch surfing this weekend! Your guide to the best events worth your time this weekend, brought to you in association with East Coast Radio. Weekend weather Friday Min: °C Max: °C Partly Cloudy Saturday Min: °C Max: °C Slight Rain Sunday Min: °C Max: °C Showers and Thundershowers READ: A gaming and comics convention is coming to Durban! Durban Lucky Fish Friday Night Racing presents: Pretty in Pink Date: Friday, 23 October 2026 Venue: Hollywoodbets Greyville Time: Evening Tickets: Free entry   Race CoastFriday Night Racing, Pretty in Pink   Friday night plans? We’ve got you covered. Get out your pink gear and head over to Hollywoodbets Greyville for an evening of live racing, good food, great company and all the trackside action. Round up your crew, leave the work week behind and make a night of it at the races. Prince K’s Funny Business Kid When: Friday, 23 OctoberTime: 8pmWhere: Seabrooke Theatre, Durban High SchoolTickets: R120 online via Webtickets or R150 at the door Friends of SA ComedyPrince K brings Funny Business Kid to Durban’s Seabrooke Theatre for a night of comedy, music and DJs on Frid
Durban on severe thunderstorm alert as power outages hit the city

Durban on severe thunderstorm alert as power outages hit the city

Durban is facing another challenging day after a weekend heatwave was compounded by power outages across the city. Now, residents are being warned to brace for severe thunderstorms, heavy downpours, and damaging winds as a storm system moves over the area this afternoon. South African Weather ServiceHeavy rain, lightning, and possible hail have been forecast for Durban. READ: UPDATE: Westmead power retored, but network remains constrained Severe thunderstorm warning for Durban eThekwini Municipality has placed its Disaster Management, Fire and Emergency Services teams on high alert following severe weather warnings issued by the South African Weather Service (SAWS). It’s a Level 4 warning for severe thunderstorms today, and a Level 2 warning for damaging winds today heading into the early hours of tomorrow. The forecast warns of: Heavy downpours Excessive lightning Possible hail Southerly winds reaching speeds of up to 83km/h These conditions could lead to localised flooding and damage to structures, with driving conditions made hazardous. Keep alert, particularly in areas prone to flooding and where strong winds could bring down branches or damage loose structures. Emergency personnel are on standby, while Durban Metro Police will monitor flood-prone areas, manage traffic, and close roads deemed unsafe. Power outages affecting areas across the city The severe weather warning comes as eThekwini Municipality’s Electricity and Energy Directorate attends to a high volume of
Don’t miss your chance to enter Cycle Sunday in Durban

Don’t miss your chance to enter Cycle Sunday in Durban

Picture this: you’re cycling along Durban’s M4, the ocean breeze is blowing in your face - and there are absolutely no cars competing for space. That’s the idea behind Cycle Sunday! The popular community cycling event that’s celebrating its first birthday this Sunday, 25 October. Cyclists, of all ages and abilities, are given four hours to enjoy a traffic-free stretch of motorway between Moses Mabhida Stadium and Umhlanga Rocks. With entries closing soon and capacity limited to 3 000 participants, now’s the time to get your bike ready. READ: Durban’s Golden Mile gets a new addition to replace much-loved Surf Riders A year of getting Durban on its bikes Cycle Sunday, organised by Peschlsports, launched with a simple aim: to encourage more people to cycle by creating a safe, accessible space on one of Durban’s best-known roads. Across its first four editions - October, December, February and June - more than 9 000 riders have taken part. Families, first-time cyclists, cycling clubs, and experienced riders have all enjoyed the opportunity to cycle a traffic-free M4. Organiser Shaun Peschl, who has a background in professional cycling, says the event is designed to make cycling accessible to more people. “We started Cycle Sunday just to get people back on their bikes and to get more people riding. We only charge R50 to ride, which is exceptional value!” READ: The best summer festivals in Durban Take on the M4 at your own pace The main route runs from Moses Mabhida Stadium towards
UPDATE: Westmead power retored, but network remains constrained

UPDATE: Westmead power retored, but network remains constrained

16 October 2026 at 8am:  eThekwini Municipality’s Electricity and Energy Directorate teams restored electricity supply at Westmead Substation after completing temporary repairs last night (Thursday).  However, the municipality warned that two panels sustained severe damage and couldn't be repaired immediately. While most affected customers have had their power restored, the distribution network remains constrained. The municipality notes that customers supplied by Westmead Substation may experience poor-quality electricity supply over the next few months because the current arrangement is temporary. Permanent repairs are still required, and the city will schedule this work and communicate details through its official communication channels. The city will also communicate any necessary electricity interruptions in advance. The municipality apologised for the continued inconvenience and thanked affected residents and businesses for their patience as teams work to stabilise the network and ensure a reliable electricity supply. Power restored in uMdloti as Westmead waits for repairs Residents affected by the uMdloti Beach Substation outage have their electricity back. For those supplied by Westmead Substation, the wait continues, with power being restored in phases and no confirmed time for all affected customers to be reconnected. Separate faults at the two substations left parts of Durban without electricity from the early hours of Wednesday, 14 October. eThekwini Municipality