Latest fromLocal Democracy
Rubbish or good idea? Residents weigh in on kerbside collection changes
Locals divided on changes: some support, others worry about fewer red bin collections.
Uncovered: 100-year-old discovery in Rotorua Museum renovation
The heritage find was made during building strengthening works.
'He'll be watching': The legacy of the Rotorua rangatira on the 20 cent coin
His legacy spans 300 years, he's travelled oceans, and he's on our 20 cent coin.
Division, abuse and rates pain: Local politics year in review
2024 saw clashes between central and local government.
Olympian Mahé Drysdale reflects on first months as Tauranga mayor
'We haven’t found a house yet - the housing crisis is real.'
‘Brave in challenging times’: Mayor, councillors share their views on 2024
Some believe progress has been made, others not so much.
‘Experience the freedom’: Deputy mayor on leaving council in 2025
Josh Wharehinga plans to revive Tairāwhiti boxing scene after stepping down from council.
Meet Kaipara's fishing-mad mayor - the “Trump of the North”
'I’m not scared to confront issues we need to discuss.'
Mitimiti magic for Far North Mayor, at the end of the winding gravel road
'This is the birthplace of New Zealand. Welcome home.'
Bin removal at popular lake causes two-year stink
The holiday park says staff pick up a bag of rubbish a day from the carpark opposite.
Gisborne Council eyes medium-density housing to address crisis
Gisborne councillors urge caution on zoning to ensure fair treatment across areas.
'Good for business': Cafe owner hails street's return to two-way traffic
Businesses say sales have dropped since the road was made one-way.
Govt ends pilot programme for Māori and Pacific, sparking outrage
Leaders call for community-driven health campaigns to address bowel cancer inequities.
Rainbow connection: Should new crossing have had official opening?
A pride advocate is upset an opening hasn't been held for Tauranga's new rainbow crossing.
'Heartbreaking' report: Council land acquisition from mana whenua detailed
Gisborne adopts a new strategy after revealing historical land disputes.
Court rejects challenge to Kaipara's ditching of Māori ward
The district council's Māori ward will disappear for the local elections next year.
'Solutions must be found' for lack of local journalism, Jeanz says
Loss of local news meant 'weaker communities' as the climate crisis bites.
Fluoride-free water option 'waste of time', campaigner says
Tauranga City Council is still undecided about providing a fluoride-free water supply.
This popular town's newspaper was closing. And then the editor stepped up
A newspaper has been saved, paving the way for several similar deals for other towns.
‘Uplifting’ Mauaoathon raises $36,000 for sick councillor
The councillor was recently transferred to Tauranga Hospital from Waikato Hospital.
Proposal to rename Petone and Auckland suburb thrown out
The Petone proposal was put forward as a correction to a historical 'misspelling'.