Local Council
Delay in fixing Parnell sinkhole causes a stink
It could be several months before a broken sewer in Central Auckland is fixed. Work on a sewer line in Parnell that collapsed and opened a massive sinkhole won't begin until early next year. Nearby… Audio
City Rail Link: No guarantees of hitting 2026 deadline
The boss of Auckland's long anticipated underground rail network is giving no guarantees it will hit its opening deadline of 2026. It has suffered several budget blowouts and will cost the city $220… Audio
Crumbling teeth or having a home? The choice one retired Rotorua couple face
It comes as they face a bill for a sewerage scheme they must legally connect to.
Wellington central library $189m rebuild on track
Wellington ratepayers can breathe a sigh of relief that the central library rebuild is not going the way of the Town Hall upgrade.
'Objectionable odour' in Wellington prompts complaints
A Wellington wastewater treatment plant is breaching consent with a foul odour after a biofilter media was changed.
Public can be 'brutal' - councillors defend use of closed-door workshops
The Ombudsman's call to open council workshops is a "hard nut to crack", a Western Bay of Plenty councillor says.
Climate change pilot 'paused' in Northland, despite community’s pleas
Climate change work in Northland's Ruawai has been stopped by Kaipara District Council, despite pleas from the community.
Hamilton beachgoers split on council's $1.7m makeover plans
Wellington Street Beach might not be Piha or Anchorage Bay but in the landlocked city of Hamilton, it is an iconic destination.
'I want more people into the city' - Auckland mayor calls for legislative changes
Wayne Brown has made his case for how the city could work. But he says it can only be successful with the help of law changes by the government.
Otago councils prepare for climate disasters in high-risk neighbourhoods
Banning new developments, managed retreats, ground strengthening and creating more water storage are among the options unveiled to help South Dunedin face future hazards.
Auckland Council looking to move to fortnightly rubbish collections - 'It would be deeply unpopular'
A councillor fears the city's kerbside rubbish collection could be reduced from a weekly to an "inconvenient" fortnightly service.
Wellington mayor receives supportive messages after revealing drinking problem
Tory Whanau says she's received hundreds of messages of support after admitting to having a drinking problem. But some councillors are questioning whether she's up to the job. The Wellington mayor… Audio
Allegations of blackmail over North Shore walkway stoush
Allegations of blackmail have been levelled at the owners of a North Shore property which is blocking access to walkers on a popular beach path. The owners want a heritage status removed, so they can… Audio
Some Wellington councillors question Whanau's ability to stay in role
One councillor said mayor Tory Whanau should "stand aside" while others at a meeting on Thursday expressed support.
Gisborne councillor apologises to mayor over meeting comments
A Gisborne district councillor has apologised to the mayor after criticising the council's approach to risk.
'Closer to finish line': Land return pivotal moment for Tauranga hapū
Two Tauranga hapū will be able to reconnect with their whenua with reserve land likely to be returned to them.
What's next for Auckland 'transport challenges' now light rail halted?
The government has agreed to cancel Labour's multi-billion-dollar light rail plans - but it is not clear what it will do instead.
Sea temperature in Malborough Sounds soaring
Time to check out the neighbourhood around Marlborough with our local democracy reporter Maia Hart, where temperatures are soaring in the Sounds. Audio
Wellington mayor Tory Whanau admits alcohol problem
She's admitted having a drinking problem after another incident of drunken behaviour in public and says she's since sought professional help.
'Not impressed': Councillor slams Brown's idea of leasing port
Auckland's mayor says his plan to lease council assets to pay for the rising costs of running the city is not asset stripping.