Latest from Local Democracy

Tararua mayor’s ultimatum over highway toll

Her council will refuse to take back maintenance of three detour routes if road is tolled.

The NZ city with 2000 ghost homes: 'Hard problem to solve'

Despite the empty homes, the council says it's not a concern.

Decision to rename Petone to Pito one referred to minister

The New Zealand Geographic Board met on the name change yesterday.

Mayor Mahé Drysdale votes no on fluoridation

The Olympic rowing champion says he wants more safety assurances.

Gisborne's water usage doubles; council gives tips for conservation

'The demand experienced was unusual so early in spring,' drinking water manager says.

Petition against rainbow crossing 'nothing short of disgusting' - Pride advocate

Petition trying to stop a rainbow pedestrian crossing in Tauranga set to be presented.

On track: Tokomaru Bay landfill remediation could be fast-tracked

'Time is of the essence' for Tokomaru Bay landfill clean-up.

'A bit traumatic': Crankworx 2024 worth millions to city despite boycott blow

Between a boycott and sponsorship struggles, there were still successes and learnings.

Gisborne library faces abuse incidents as councillors discuss safety concerns

Behaviours range from theft and fighting to using the outside of the building as a toilet.

Pools or poo pipe? City debates where it should invest $2 million

The mayor says the community wants its spas back. But major project costs are climbing.

Mahé Drysdale's uncle spent $56k in fruitless bid to beat nephew in election

Who spent the most on their bid for a seat at the Tauranga City Council table?

Gisborne cross-sector group established to guide landowners of highly erodible land

Forestry Minister Todd McClay said a range of tools would be available with the changes.

What’s in it for us? Pātea pledges to mess with miners

A hikoi marched to a Pātea beach to show they still oppose seabed mining.

Ngāpuhi hapū leader calls for $8 billion Treaty redress during Govt visit

Minister Paul Goldsmith said his purpose at the hui was to listen.

Pipeline protest: Council restarts legal action to protect work site

A protester says the council's issues could have been avoided if it listened better.

The Sir Tim Shadbolt Terminal: Former mayor honoured by airport

Terminal named in former mayor's honour at private ceremony today.

‘State-of-the-art’: Refurbished children’s unit opens at Rotorua Hospital

Health minister Dr Shane Reti opened unit on Tuesday.

Health Minister opens new Rotorua Hospital children's unit

Rotorua Hospital's children's unit has undergone refurbishment. Video / Laura Smith