Local Council
Where councillor salaries have jumped by up nearly a third
The Remuneration Authority has set pay for elected members across Whanganui, Ruapehu, Rangitīkei and Horizons Regional councils.
Napier residents rage over new housing plan
The city is opening the door to six-storey terraced housing and apartment-style living - upsetting some locals.
Leaders chosen for Auckland local boards
Local boards across Auckland have officially begun their new term, after completing inaugurations and electing chairpersons and deputy chairs for the next three years.
Methven birdsong project starts humming
A community vision to bring the birds back to Methven is taking root.
Third recount of Northland's tightest local election refused
In the final count, councillor Mark Vincent lost his seat in the Otamatea Ward by just two votes to council newcomer Denise Rogers.
Homeless could be forcibly moved out of central city
Auckland's rough sleepers could soon be forcibly moved out of the central city, with ministers confirming they are considering taking action. Auckland's City Missioner Helen Robinson spoke to Ingrid… Audio
Otago Council calls for urgent govt change after networks failed in storm
The Otago Regional Council said communications and water supplies were disrupted as backup systems were failed.
Queenstown/Southland face long cleanup after recent storms
Katie Todd reports on the long clean-up to come and McDonald's potential new store in Wanaka Audio
The Panel with Ali Jones and Simon Pound, Part 2
In part two, Waikanae locals are pushing back against developers bounding into town with high density houses. Then, new noise rules in Dunedin are being hailed a success for all. New CBD houses will… Audio
Minister calls for loosening of Eden Park concert rules
A neighbour of Eden Park is "loving" the possibility of restrictions being loosened at the stadium to allow for more concerts and events. Audio
'I know where you live': Councillors ramp up security after threats
At least two newly elected councillors will be accessing newly available support after facing harassment and threats during the local government elections.
Taupō homeowner landscaping public reserve sparks debate
A Taupō District Council report found the landscaping was inappropriate and created the illusion that the land was private and not accessible to the public. Audio
Pandaland amongst submissions to overhaul showgrounds
The Hastings District Council, which purchased the Tōmoana Showgrounds in 2023, is asking residents to help shape a 10-year master plan for its future.
Licensing trusts respond to MPs move for more alcohol sales
Two of the few remaining licensing Trusts in New Zealand say the community doesn't want alcohol sold at more places in West Auckland. Chief executive of the Trusts, Allan Pollard spoke to Corin Dann. Audio
Council issues warning over bird attacks in Wellington
The Bird of the Year winner has its talons out in Wellington - where people are being attacked on a popular bush walk by nesting karearea, New Zealand falcons. Alexa Cook reports. Audio
Ni Kiribati, Samoan and Maori sworn in as AK Councillors
Auckland's Mayor and Council have been sworn in, and the inauguration had a very Pasifika flavour as local democracy reporter Mary Afemata explains Audio
62% of special votes disallowed in knife-edge election
Snow Tane, who placed second in the tight mayoral race, says a process that disenfranchises so many isn't fit for purpose.
Council trials sheep to combat fire risk
The popular Kennedys Bush track is closed until Wednesday to allow sheep to graze the dry grass in the area.
Wellington waterfront's temporary fencing to be removed
Wellington City Council says it will remove temporary fencing that was put in place following the death of Isaac Levings in 2023.
Submissions open for Auckland’s intensification plan
From today, the public can offically submit feedback on Auckland Council's housing intensification plan. Auckland Councillor, Shane Henderson, spoke to Ingrid Hipkiss. Audio
