Latest fromTauranga City Council

‘We will make better decisions’: Mayor on iwi council appointments
A pōwhiri was held for the three tangata whenua representatives.

Why Tauranga’s water service delivery options have sparked debate
Council discusses ministerial influence on Tauranga's Local Waters Done Well planning.

How much a 12% rates rise could add to Tauranga homeowners' bills
The mayor says the council found $29m in savings to get the overall rise down to 12%.

Rising talent: Young skaters gear up for national spotlight
The event features park, street, and vert competitions on March 28 and 29.

‘Step backwards’: MP’s equal voting rights bill challenged
Iwi group leaders argue the bill ignores political disadvantages faced by Māori.

Historic site set for major restoration
Four trees will be removed to protect archaeological features at the site.

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

‘Great news’: Early ramp opening to ease Pāpāmoa traffic
The eastbound ramps at Pāpāmoa East Interchange may open in late 2025.

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

Residents criticise mayor for inconsistency over ‘s*** deal’
Tauranga Mayor Mahe Drysdale called the marine precinct sale a ‘s... deal’.

‘Unique, essential’: Locals dismayed as pool hours remain unchanged
The council decided to keep the 7am opening to save on extra costs.

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

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

'It’s a perfect area': 89 new homes to be built in Tauranga
Construction will begin on the two-storey development at the end of 2025.

Why tree removal in Greerton has left locals feeling uprooted
“I feel really, really sad. It’s taken character away."

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

'Disgraceful': Ratepayers pick up $5m waterfront playground bill
The NZ Taxpayers Union breaks down the costs for the Tauranga destination playground.

‘Prime land’: University strikes $1.38m deal to lease public reserve for 99 years
It plans to build a marine research and education facility.

Revealed: Who wants to be Tauranga’s new Māori ward councillor
Mikaere Sydney was elected last year but has not taken up the role due to illness.

Marine precinct sale could cause ‘irreversible harm’, court told
Tauranga City Council says it is not obliged to provide facilities for working boats.

Council cans waterfront walkway, projects 12.5% rates rise
Mayor Mahe Drysdale says the council's budget is a 'ceiling ... not a target'.