Sue Teodoro

From no-mow trials in public parks to soft plastic recycling, Carterton council is adopting sustainable practices across its business units.

South Wairarapa Mayor Fran Wilde said more detail was needed from the government to answer important questions on the banded rates cap.

The issue is raised in a report to be put before Masterton's District Council on Wednesday.

The Hotel confirmed they closed the bar after hoping they would be able to keep serving alcohol while the appeals process was underway.

"Our elected members come from the community and should be able to carry out our roles without fear of personal attacks or harassment," Carterton's mayor says.

A dog owner blamed themself for an attack at a Masterton park by one of their dogs, saying if they had not been off work sick with flu the incident probably would not have happened.

The local climate could be expected to get hotter and drier in the years to come, so what is the plan?

New Zealand's population growth has been on a downward trend according to Statistics NZ following a strong drop off in international migration.

A total of 200 claims were made, with Masterton having the highest number at 60 - mostly from the weather event on 21 October.

Rates could be raised for properties with granny flats, an economist says, after new rules were passed allowing people to build structures up to 70 square metres in their yards.

Celia Wade-Brown, who is the Green Party's associate conservation spokesperson, says possums are a serious threat to biodiversity, orchards and stock.

He might have hung up his mayoral chains, but his life in the public eye could be far from over.

Former Wellington mayor Celia Wade-Brown describes what scared her most and the food she craved while walking the length of New Zealand on the Te Araroa trail.

Hundreds of people, including about 140 children, turned out for the blessing of the Featherston playground which now bears author Joy Cowley's name.

Wellington public servants out of a job could become a resource for councils looking for staff, according to a Wairarapa mayor.

Council supplies 21 properties with new reflux valves and wastewater tanks.

More than 18,000 visitors attended Wairarapa events in the past two weeks, giving the region a tourism boost after a slower winter.

Masterton has 79 earthquake-prone buildings, with some needing strengthening work by as early as 2026.

The Masterton District Council set out details for the $2.5 million proposal on Monday.

Masterton residents with wastewater and toilet paper flowing through their backyards in heavy rain are relieved a fix is in sight.

"Animal Services actively tries to engage with dog owners to encourage them to register their dog before an infringement is issued."

A proposal to introduce a targeted charge for Airbnb operators in South Wairarapa is proving contentious for the region.

Cyclone Gabrielle tore through parts of the district in February causing serious flooding in the small community.

Wairarapa Green Party candidate Celia Wade-Brown is still hoping to be part of the Green wave of MPs.

The warning comes as new numbers show the hospital was operating close to capacity over the winter months.