Moana is a Local Democracy Reporter based in Whanganui
We are your advocate, Aotearoa. Uncovering stories that matter, asking hard-hitting questions of those in power, live-blogging sport events, monitoring the highs and lows of the NZX and providing Premium expert opinion and analysis. Bringing you distinctive, quality journalism and breaking news from across New Zealand and around the world. With specialists working together to create indepth reads, engaging video, and unmissable podcasts.
Ruapehu mayor seeks funding for 'vital' cycle trail
Weston Kirton says the completed cycle trail will boost economic growth and resilience.
Ngāti Rangi appoints new tribal rūnanga chair
Troy Brown will take on the role in December when Whetu Moataane stands down.
Sculptures to tell iwi history on Forgotten World Highway
Five works will bring focus to the cultural significance and tūpuna history of the area.
‘Keep the lights on’: Community rallies over mills threat
'I believe this can be fixed – there needs to be an intervention.'
Mayors 'cautiously optimistic' about keeping mills from closing
The Government has invited the mayors to work with WPI on possible solutions.
‘We pulled out all the stops’: Rampant power costs crush hope for Ruapehu mills
Chief executive Mike Ryan said rapidly increasing energy prices were unsustainable.
‘Bombshell’: Devastation as mills announce permanent closure
Ruapehu mayor Weston Kirton says he is deeply concerned for local communities.
Minister rejects call for exemption over Māori ward poll
Ruapehu and South Taranaki district councils will now be required to hold referendums.
‘Don’t be scared, mate’: Councillors defend Māori ward
Councillors are talking with the community about the future of Ruapehu's Māori ward.
‘Backward move’: Councillor slams mandate to undo Māori wards
Fiona Kahukura Hadley-Chase says it is an attempt to 'diminish Māori representation'.
'No cash, no housing’: Council calls on Government to act
Ruapehu District Council says it is bowing out from financing housing developments.
Water funding remains problem for councils
A rural mayor says there’s no incentive for councils to band together in new entities.
Lodge owner praised for spotting guests’ invasive clam collection
An Ōwhango business owner found a collection of freshwater gold clams left by guests.
Minister to decide on village name change proposal
Te Korowai o Wainuiārua wants National Park Village to be named Waimarino.
Century-long saga: The six moves to change this village’s name
The names National Park and Waimarino have been pondered multiple times.
Submissions quadruple on bid to rename National Park village as Waimarino
Iwi calling for the North Island tourist village to revert to its historical name.
Proposal to change name of village draws public submissions
Ngā Pou Taunaha o Aotearoa New Zealand Geographic Board supports the proposal.
Consultation opens on National Park name change
There's also a proposal to change the name of National Park's railway station.
Support for National Park to restore ‘most beautiful name’
A three-month public consultation on the name change proposal will open on Tuesday.