Local Council
'Grinch' mayor may save Winter Festival
Max Brough who campaigned on a rates cap dressed as the Grinch in New Plymouth's Christmas Parade last weekend.
'Extremely concerning': Vandals block cycle path with planks
A champion cyclist is "disgusted" by a spate of vandalism in Wellington's Town Belt which appears to be targeting mountain bikers.
Midday Report Essentials for Tuesday 2 December 2025
The government wants a cap on local council rates to be in place by 2029. Bryan Cadogan was mayor of Clutha for five terms and held a rates cap for over 10 years; Finance Minister Nicola Willis has… Audio
Government wants rates cap in place by 2029
The government wants a cap on local council rates to be in place by 2029. Bryan Cadogan was mayor of Clutha for five terms and held a rates cap for over 10 years. He spoke to Charlotte Cook Audio
Local govt shake-up: A complicated job for a complex system
Regional councils have to find a different way of operating that cuts down on double ups and layers of bureaucracy.
'Won't work': Mayor hits out at government's new rates cap
Wayne Brown has taken aim at the policy, suggesting the government should start paying rates on its own properties. Audio
Mayors warn of more charges due to rates rise cap
Mayors are warning we may be charged for libraries and see price hikes for other council services as the Government puts a cap on rates rises. Gisborne District Council mayor Rehette Stoltz spoke to… Audio
Whakatane community boards still to find members, river cleanup
The Whakatane River bridge is being hit by debris - including dead horses - Diane McCarthy reports from the Eastern Bay Audio
Local government's big shakeup
Regional councils have to find a different way of operating that cuts down on double ups and layers of bureaucracy Audio
Budget, City Rail behind proposed rate hike - Auckland Mayor
Wayne Brown says his proposal is focused on delivering smarter services and faster progress to strengthen communities and businesses.
The Panel with Tim Batt and Aimie Hines, Part 1
Tonight, on The Panel, Wallace Chapman is joined by panellists Tim Batt and Aimie Hines. First up, rates caps are here. From 2027, councils won't be able to increase rates by more than 4 percent per… Audio
Local councils relieved with govt's rates capping approach
But some want assurance the policy will not affect local councils' ability to invest in core services and infrastructure.
Details of council rates cap revealed
Councils are once again being told to start living within their means and focus on the basics, with the government releasing details of its long-awaited rates cap. Instead of a fixed cap, the… Audio
Community rallies behind Castlepoint Hotel after liquor licence lost
The Hotel confirmed they closed the bar after hoping they would be able to keep serving alcohol while the appeals process was underway.
Are community Christmas trees money well spent?
As the festive season approaches one of the most iconic symbols of Christmas - the community Christmas tree - is going up in towns and cities around the country. Our reporters in Wellington, Auckland… Audio
The most significant changes to regional councils in decades
Delving into the most significant changes to regional councils in decades. Audio
Councillors given up to $5500 for security after rise in threats
The allowance is one of a number available to elected officials as set out by the Remuneration Authority.
Kaipara leader urges Kai Iwi Lakes closure to protect against gold clam threat
Around 7500 people will be camping at Kai Iwi Lakes over summer.
Morning Report Essentials for Friday 28 November 2025
Disgusted, disappointed and furious - those are words of Simone Bennett reacting to the government's announcement that the long-awaited National Erebus Memorial will be built in Christchurch; Tourism… Audio
Aucklanders oppose fortnightly bin collection
Public consultation on Auckland Council's proposed six-month trial of fortnightly kerbside rubbish collections shows 78% of submitters opposed the trial. General manager for waste solutions, Justine… Audio
