Two scientists speaking at a major freshwater conference have described reversing the fouling of New Zealand's waterways as our largest environmental problem.

Legislation the Government says will rein in local authority rates increases was passed yesterday amid Opposition criticism it was unjustified and would result in reduced services to communities.

The Maori Council's challenge to the Government's partial asset sales plan is likely to bypass the Court of Appeal and go directly to the Supreme Court early next year in order to meet the looming deadline for the sale of Mighty River Power.

Aucklanders will have to wait longer to catch a tram from Britomart to Wynyard Quarter to help trim rates next year.

Editorial: In one swoop, all houses built before World War II will be deemed to have special merit. Never mind that in any period a mixture of good, average and awful homes are built.

The Maori Council's High Court bid to halt the sale of Mighty River Power ended in Wellington today with a decision likely before Christmas.

Labour proposal useful contribution to debate and will be considered, says Brown.

Neighbours to discuss rich lister plans for landing pad and flight path in quiet bay.

Councillors baulk at the prospect of unleashing wardens in public reserves.

Grafton Gully cycleway final stage of 15km dedicated trail from Te Atatu to Beach Rd.

Wanganui district councillors Clive Solomon and Michael Laws remain habitual non-attenders at council and committee meetings.

A carparking building in Manukau that cost ratepayers $14 million to build is sitting virtually empty and slashing prices to attract vehicles.

Board member caught out by phone plan data cap.

Only 12 victims of the $11 billion leaky homes catastrophe have received final payments from a $1 billion Government and local council scheme, raising the ire of experts.