Latest fromLocal Democracy

‘Curly issues’: Judge’s Tarawera decision ‘as soon as possible’
A decision on works would be made in weeks rather than months.

Community groups join forces to aid Gisborne’s rough sleepers
Gisborne leaders have created plan to support 40 rough sleepers in the region.

Gisborne’s DrainWise redirects downpipes to prevent sewage spills
The council removed 25 downpipes from November 2024 to January 31.

LGxit: Another council legs it from LGNZ
Western Bay of Plenty Mayor James Denyer highlighted LGNZ's support for elected members.

‘Hungry for customers’: New way for public to have their say planned
Council chief executive wants 'customers' at the centre of the organisation's thinking.

Tokoroa receives biggest housing boost since the 1970s
Strathmore Park is expected to deliver 187 homes in stages.

Rotorua’s suggested ‘rates swap’ labelled ‘unfair’ by deputy mayor
Deputy mayor says it makes district council look like "bad guys" with a rates rise.

$180m retirement village approved under fast-track consent
'The economic impacts of the development are significant.'

‘Eroding a democracy’: Backlash over community board changes
Western Bay council proposes three boards to improve representation and reduce rates.

Operation Trolley: Why Rotorua’s top cop says opposition worked
Police positive that many homeless had since referred to agencies.

Hundreds sign petition to keep busy stretch of highway 80km/h
Mayor is urging NZTA for safety improvements on the highway stretch.

Councillor seeks inquiry into commission’s decisions
Mayor Mahé Drysdale said focusing on past issues won't help the council progress.

‘Slap in the face’: Gisborne residents fight speed limit changes
NZTA seeks input over plans to lift limit on part of State Highway 35 back to 100km/h.

‘Low trust’: Mount Maunganui street closure sparks community tension
Mayor Mahé Drysdale said road changes aim to balance safety and accessibility.

Māori ward councillors aim for re-election in Gisborne elections
Rhonda Tibble highlights the importance of bringing a Māori world view to council.

Local water services: Should Rotorua go it alone?
Options include an in-house model or partnering with other councils.

Second Waikato councillor resigns ahead of election
First-term councillor who secured 1795 votes at the 2022 election.

'Not the time for pitching visionary projects': Councils suggest a strategic regional deal with Govt
The Cabinet plans to decide in May the first regions to progress.

Whakaari-White Island memorial project requires further hapū engagement
$90,000 was raised this year, with hopes for central government funding.

‘Desperate need’: Calls grow for Pāpāmoa East community hub
A Pāpāmoa East centre needs to be prioritised, a reverend says.

Should the night market move? And who should pay more for the new sewerage scheme?
What the council wants public feedback on this year.