Latest news from Rotorua

Rotorua safety team expands patrols with e-bikes
The guardians' team leader says they are another tool they can use for community safety.

Sex crimes case: Why an entertainment figure’s identity is still secret
It has been six months since a Court of Appeal hearing about name suppression.

Nervous for survival: Māori ward councillors prepare for critical elections
Forty-two councils will hold a poll for Māori wards in 2025 elections.

Who's the best apprentice? Builders hammer away for top spot
Up to 22 regional winners will compete in the national final in Hamilton in June.

From dental nurse to beauty queen and budding swimsuit model
She has been asked to attend Miami Swim Week in May for casting.

Teen's 160km hīkoi backing Māori wards referendum
Jack Karetai-Barrett's inviting others to join the walk, aiming to raise awareness.

The Chase is on: TVNZ commissions four-episode quiz show special Downunder
Successful applicants will have to cover their own travel and accommodation costs.

Payment disputes: Kāinga Ora apartment project hits roadblock
Little has happened at a Kāinga Ora-owned building site in Rotorua for months.

On The Up: Air Chathams and Air NZ in partnership talks
'Smaller operators play a critical role and do an excellent job.'

Opinion: Rotorua needs its rescue helicopters back
OPINION: Our readers have their say.

Historic villa for sale after fire mishap, overseas landlord wants out
Rotorua rental property has been vacant for two years.

Fake cop: Teen impersonates police officer at hospital
He parked his ex-cop car in a police spot and probed staff for a security guard's details.

‘Real win for Tauranga’: Bay Oval to host Black Caps series against old foe
The Tauranga Mayor expects 'significant economic benefits'.

Council assessing Rotorua lake weed build-up
Rotting weed can cause a strong smell and build-up happens after bad weather.

‘I wanted to know why I didn’t see them:’ Rider returned to scene where he hit pedestrians
The motorcyclist believes the pedestrian crossing was dangerous.

‘Herd more than double’: Urgent call to rehome Kaimanawa horses
'Time is running out.'

‘We’re back’: Bay duos chase another bite at Pork Pie Charity Run
Fifty teams are driving their Minis down the country in the movie-inspired fundraiser.

‘Fully back in the saddle’: How this city’s events sector is thriving
There's something in the air for Rotorua venues and suppliers – renewed confidence.

Hazelnut growers call for more research to crack open opportunities
New Zealand produces only 10-15% of the hazelnuts it consumes annually.

Editorial: New NZME campaign aims for a better today and better tomorrow
OPINION: We hope that On The Up’s stories will challenge, motivate and uplift.

Opinion: Markets face uncertain year after volatile first quarter
OPINION: The S&P 500 fell 4.6% in March, its biggest drop since 2022.

From music to markets: Top events in the Bay of Plenty this season
From Tauranga to Rotorua, discover upcoming events in the Bay of Plenty region.

Winning Lotto locations revealed: One lucky Kiwi wins $1m Strike
Powerball will roll over to next week.

‘Her energy and enthusiasm was 100%‘: League stalwart, 80, steps down
For nearly 50 years, Jenny Nahu has been the glue that's held Bay rugby league together.

Watch: ‘Out of control’ – Teen Jaguar driver’s dangerous rampage
Neurodiversity paired with lack of boundaries was partly blamed for ramming a police car.

Rotorua public feedback sought on draft annual plan, water service options
Public can provide input until May 5 on the council's new feedback website.

'You can’t continue to make victims': Teen ram-raider, robber gets dressing down from judge
He was in court on charges relating to stolen vehicles, ram raids and dairy robberies.

Man’s drink-driving conviction overturned on appeal after lawyer, police errors
Zebulon Lawrance was more than twice the legal drink driving limit but has been let off.

Letters to the editor: Trump’s third term bid defies US constitutional values
Opinion: Our readers have their say.