Convictions for cannabis possession in Rotorua are down 66 per cent, and two new charter schools are approved from 26 applicants. These are just two of the stories making headlines around the regions today.
Convictions in Rotorua for cannabis possession have fallen more than 66 per cent in the last six years - adding fuel to nationwide calls for government action on drug law reform.
Only two new charter schools, one in Napier and one in Hamilton, have been approved to open in 2017, adding to the eight already operating.
A Whangarei student's investigation on bees has not only developed a simple way beekeepers can trace pollen from the plant source to the hive, it has also scooped the top award at a Northland science fair.
Tauranga mayoral contender Larry Baldock has pledged to survey ratepayers on major issues that hit them in the pocket, including measures to reduce traffic congestion.