Latest fromLocal Democracy
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.
'These little things mean a lot': Rural projects transform community spaces
New footpaths, swings and CCTV have upgraded a number of Rotorua's rural areas.
'Nothing more for ratepayer': Councillor slams water infrastructure plan
Gisborne debates water options: Lower short-term costs vs long-term savings.
Mauao to close for repair of vandalised pounamu
Tauranga's landmark Mauao will be closed so the vandalised pounamu can be repaired.
Te Tai Tokerau iwi marks 'significant milestone' in council relations
'We are adamant we must cut a path forward.'
'Gutless racism': Sacred pounamu touchstone vandalised in 'despicable' act
'Illiterate reprobates' blamed as compass atop maunga in Mount Maunganui vandalised.
'Standing with them': Gisborne council's stance against Treaty Bill
Gisborne Council opposes Treaty Principles Bill, citing threats to local partnerships.
'Panicked voice of oppression': Council backs iwi roles despite flood of opposition
Iwi representatives will vote on council committees despite thousands of opposing emails.
Has this beloved golf course been saved? Depends who you ask
A heated council debate includes claims of 'coercion' and 'disrespectful' behaviour.
‘It's time’: $128m Tauranga museum greenlit after 25 years of talks
Tauranga will have a museum by 2029 after talking about it for 25 years.
Families gather to mark fifth anniversary of Whakaari eruption
A service was attended by more than 180 people, at least 40 of whom were from overseas.
'Warms our hearts': Profits from Maketū Pies to fund community training, say owners
Local praise as Maketū Pies profits to aid Te Arawa youth training.
Gisborne unveils water filter unit especially designed for the isolated region
The portable water unit can supply fresh water in mass during severe weather events.
City considers installing fluoride-free water tap at the border
Supplying unfluoridated water to Tauranga locals will be discussed at a meeting on Monday.
Regional MPs object to Air NZ cutting 'vital' Wellington flights
Rotorua leaders welcome Auckland flights but worry about losing key Wellington service.
Farmers hope for cattle river grazing renewals
Conservation groups have long opposed allowing cattle in the braided river valleys.
Gisborne council slaps Aratu Forests with fresh enforcement order
Aratu Forests receives a second enforcement order application in five months.
Cautious optimism in tiny town as iconic pie company given third life
The new owner was among 'a number of interested parties'.
Thousands spent on unsuccessful wallaby hunt
Droppings discovered which likely belonged to a wallaby but the culprit was never found.
'Too old': Local board chairman claims 'ageism' forced him to quit the role
The Waihī Beach Community Board chairman stepped down at a tense meeting.
Whānau rally for city's first Māori ward councillor struck by rare illness
Locals will climb Mauao to fundraise for Tauranga councillor Mikaere Sydney.
‘So angry’: Gisborne councillors oppose Wellington’s freshwater rule change delay
Gisborne councillors oppose Wellington's rule change, seeking exemption.
Tauranga's new bus service: $5 fare arrives in 2025 after trial success
Tauranga's new on-demand bus service is hugely popular but fares will rise to cover costs.
Liquidators to run Maketū Pies as they seek buyer
The first liquidators' report indicates when creditors may be paid by.
Gisborne council faces challenges with proposed new national forestry standards
Gisborne councillors worry new NES-CF will limit local control over forestry regulations.
'There is no Planet B': Gisborne council debates aspirational net-zero by 2030 timeline
Cyclone Gabrielle shifts focus; key climate plans delayed, affecting net-zero goals.