Local Council
The town with only one dentist for 10,000 people
A year-long search for a new dentist has attracted little interest as residents are forced to wait up to six weeks for appointments. Audio
Morning Report Essentials for Friday 22 August 2025
In today's episode, Auckland Council is seeking feedback on a draft plan to build more homes near town centres and public transport, while keeping new buildings safer in flood-prone areas; Carter Holt… Audio
'Click bait': 'Misleading' council CEO rich list slammed
Rotorua Lakes Council Mayor called it "disappointing click bait".
Work stops as human remains found in Whakatāne
Work on a council emergency management facility in Whakatāne has been stopped following the discovery of kōiwi on the site.
Council's housing density plan will bring more people to inner Auckland, architect says
Auckland Council has voted to take the draft changes out for consultation. Audio
List of core services 'bizarre', Whakatāne councillor says
Cemeteries, public toilets, animal control, liquor licenses and consents are not considered core services for councils by the Government.
Wellington Water's unlawful responses to information requests
A watchdog has found the organisation acted "unreasonably" on a number of occasions.
Man 'very disappointed' after brothel plan abandoned
Hardeep Singh says he's been forced to abandon plans to open a brothel in Hastings CBD because of intolerable pressure from local body election candidates.
Auckland Council to consult on new intensification plan
The council will go to iwi authorities, government ministries, and local boards for consultation on a draft plan to increase intensification and strengthen hazard rules for new buildings.
Auckland mayoral candidate unveils transport policy plan
Kerrin Leoni is putting her weight behind a campaign to get train services to Kumeū-Huapai in Auckland's North-West.
Tirau locals split over potential introduction of Burger King and Starbucks
Tirau locals are split over whether the arrival of a big burger and coffee brand could kill the village vibe or deliver dozens of jobs and an economic boost. The South Waikato council has appointed… Audio
Eves Valley Sawmill in Nelson set to close
One hundred and forty two jobs could be about to go in Nelson, with the planned closure of the Eves Valley Sawmill. Nelson Mayor Nick Smith spoke to Guyon Espiner. Audio
Auckland Council meets to decide if it will support new intensification plan
The plan would allow for more apartments and terrace homes in walking distance of train and bus stations among other changes.
Govt looks to expand geothermal strategy in Taupo region
Dan Hutchinson reports on the neighbourhood around Taupo, where there's a boil water notice in the suburb of Mapara Audio
Rate capping lessons from across the Tasman
As rate payers feel the pinch, plans for rate capping offer welcome relief. But councillors across the Tasman have warnings.
On rate capping, lessons from across the Tasman
As rate payers feel the pinch, plans for rate capping offer welcome relief. But councillors here and across the Tasman have warnings. Audio
Council staff kept busy by information requests
Requests for official information are on the rise on the West Coast, including some described as 'vexatious'.
Mayoral hopeful opens up on 'frosty' relationship with brother Nobby Clark
Andrew Clark will run for Invercargill mayor and is the brother of current mayor Nobby Clark.
Food insecurity: Advocates push for South Auckland community gardens
Community gardens could help bridge the gap for families struggling, one local board chair says.
Wellington Council approves extra funding for sludge plant completion
Wellington City Councillors have voted to approve an extra $83 million for the completion of its sludge minimisation facility.