Local Council

North Canterbury ratepayers can expect more rates rises, as local councils seek to deliver on their long term plans.

A committee charged with making changes is intent on trusting "local voices" and building collaboration across the region.

The challenges could keep a rural mayor with more than 20 years' council experience from stepping aside as planned at this year's elections.

The process of replacing John Holyoake will occur as the council prepares for the local government elections in October.

The future use of Rotorua's remaining two non-contracted emergency housing motels hinges on "local demand", as the government exits the last of its contracted motels this year.

Two of Auckland's heritage hotels have been given a financial boost in the latest Auckland Council Regional Historic Heritage Grant.

However, Fire and Emergency has refused to confirm the two fires are being treated as arson.

Rates are among the lowest in the country and Mauger says he knows keeping them that way is a priority for residents.

A sinkhole in Nelson developed an "appreciation society" who asked the community for suggestions on how it could be used.

The council is considering increasing restrictions on taking dogs to parks.

The site has been the scene of three known crashes within a five-year period, including one involving a vehicle towing a caravan.

Christchurch's mayor has taken it upon himself to shift an abandoned double trailer unit following months of inaction.

An iwi partnership is being considered by Whanganui District Council, which could encompass management of reserves, and a trust to foster social well-being - and could be legally binding.

A spate of toxic algae appearances in Southland has prompted warnings at rivers across the region.

Queenstown Lakes District Council (QDLC) said it's been given two notices after failing to stop partially treated wastewater from spilling off the site of a local treatment plant and potentially…

Council CCTV camera operators have helped nab a group of young people police say were trying to burgle a shop.

Auckland Transport is increasing fares for some and scrapping its 10 percent discount for off-peak travel.

Finance is being sought to provide a solar energy farm for Stewart Island Rakiura residents.

There have been no issues with off-licence bottle shops in Auckland adhering to new strict 9pm closures, Auckland Council says.