Latest from Local Democracy

'Overworked and underpaid': They care for the land that cradles the dead, but don't get a living wage

They left their parks and cemeteries, to swap spades for protest signs.

Workers at 'lowest paying local council employer' to strike tomorrow

More than 70 workers will down tools for eight days.

Drag queens' Rainbow Storytime cancelled over 'safety concerns'

Decision follows 'hostile dialogue' and 'rapid spread of misinformation'.

Council backs down on paid Mount parking, plans enforcement crackdown

Local businesses are pleased the council has backed down on paid parking plans.

'It's a sad day for Rotorua': Iconic tourism business in liquidation

What liquidators say the tourism company owes.

'Disappointing': ‘Super’ bus stops near planned 'significant' project opposed

The council proposed two new 90m bus stops on either side of Durham St south.

Councillors clash over Rainbow Storytime event, drag queen hits back at criticism

Protest and counter-action signalled for library reading session.

'All hell breaks loose': Rotorua pest specialist deals to pesky wasp nest

When the probe went down, the wasps came up.

"It just blasted": Unusual plumes of steam and bubbles from geothermal bore

“All of a sudden something happened and it just blasted.”

Maggots, rats, poo on the walls: Tenants paid up to $600pw at 'disgusting' lodge

The lodge owner says: 'You can't please everyone'.

Lakeland Queen saga: Decision-making process a 'slap in the face of democracy'

Call to disband committee that decided dry-docked paddle steamer must leave reserve.

Council backs down on ‘cash-grab’ sports fees

'Where we’ve landed is probably reasonably fair.'

Tauranga ratepayers face 15.8 per cent rates hike, Cameron Rd works delayed

Homeowners face paying another 11.1 per cent on average.

‘Drastically unfair’: The landowner facing a 500 per cent rates hike

The Christchurch-based owner has challenged the proposed increase.

Council suitcase used once after ‘exorbitant’ purchase

Expensive suitcase used for bringing back delicate items stored out of sight in archives.

'Concern and uncertainty': Will treasured community hall be demolished?

The community was told demo plans were under way but council now says it's still deciding.

Controversial road closure leads to $5m in fines

Since the cul-de-sac was created in March 2022, 34,299 fines have been issued.

'Told to move on': Rough sleepers describe restless nights in Rotorua

With homeless people asked to leave reserves, does Rotorua need a night shelter again?