Latest fromTe Awamutu

Police continue search for missing owner of burned-out vehicle
Travis, 24, was last seen on January 17. Police found his vehicle burnt out in Ngāroma.

Search resumes for person seen struggling in Waikato River near Cambridge
At this stage, it is unconfirmed how the person came to be in the river.

‘Constantly looking over my shoulder’: Man's relief at being caught after five years on the run
The 36-year-old, who stole $47k from businesses, was finally found after drink driving.

'One careful owner': Op shop condoms might be a stretch
Commenters question safety of the contraceptives after picture shared on social media.

Deadly disease kills 100-year-old tree despite vaccination
The fatal and fast-spreading disease was found to be present in the Waikato in February.

The city with the lowest home ownership rates in NZ
Housing is relatively inexpensive compared with other cities but ownership rates are low.

Serious crash closes SH3 in Te Awamutu, eight injured
Motorists are advised to follow diversions and expect delays.

'Solutions must be found' for lack of local journalism, Jeanz says
Loss of local news meant 'weaker communities' as the climate crisis bites.

Waikato kākāpō goes on a surprise off-grid adventure
The endangered flightless parrot took an unplanned break from technology.

'Not enough evidence' that incinerator would be positive for community, mayor says
Waipā District Council prepares feedback on Te Awamutu waste-to-energy plant.

Meter reader critically injured as thieves looking for drug money steal his work car
Jason Wharekura maintains he doesn't know his co-offenders, despite his guilty plea.

Police respond to possible sighting of armed people on college campus
Police have since been stood down and believe there is no threat.

Prisoner captured after escape from Waikato Hospital
The incident has prompted a review of Spring Hill Corrections Facility procedure.

Waikato butchery Expleo brings home the bacon
The Te Awamutu business won four national awards recently.

Tree disaster leaves Ōpārau without power for days
Waipā Networks responded after 14 poles fell in Ōpārau.

Waikato country music duo scoop up six award nominations in US
The duo won Best New Artist at HUGS Radio Awards, nominated for six US awards.

For or against waste-to-energy plant: Submissions due by December 18
Time running out to submit to EPA on Te Awamutu's waste-to-energy plant.

Costumes of Ka Whawhai Tonu movie on display for the first time
Movie costume exhibition brings important story to life at Te Awamutu Museum.

DoorDash app launches in Taupō, Cambridge and Te Awamutu
DoorDash launches in Taupō, Timaru, Cambridge and Te Awamutu, among other stores.

Photographer captures comet, meteor shower and kiwi-shaped nebula in one image
Berge hiked to a remote location, avoiding light pollution to capture breathtaking skies.

NZ's biggest fenced wildlife sanctuary cuts staff to make ends meet
The Waikato eco-sanctuary still needs much-needed financial support.