Taupō and South Waikato councils prefer consultations over marriage proposals
Taupō’s Te Papamārearea ward councillor Ngahuia Foreman has dubbed the frantic rush of council amalgamation talks (or speed dating) a quest to get “married in three months
Local Democracy Reporting
Ruapehu will erupt again. Are we ready?
Another Ruapehu eruption is not a matter of if, but when – but 30 years after the volcano's last major eruption cycle, scientists say New Zealand is much better prepared.
Waikato lawmakers praise $1.8 billion Expressway vow
The near $1.8 billion dollar funding for the Waikato Expressway’s Cambridge to Piarere extension has left local and central government alike ecstatic
Sport Waikato’s CEO clamps down on sideline abuse
Parents acting up on the sidelines of sports games aren’t helping their kids, a sport boss says - it might even put them off playing.
Taupō Mayor makes first visit to local marae
Taupō Mayor makes first visit to a marae in the Taupō District, as part of the Taupō District Councillor Connect Forums.
King Country councils already preparing for ‘forced amalgamation’
King Country Councils talk merge. When Wellington sent its shot across the bows of local councils to “lead your reform, or we will do it for you”, it found two rural councils in the Waikato/King Country region already working on a plan away from proposed Waikato Super Council.
Local government reform: Taupō Mayor John Funnell says more time needed
'Extremely tight timeframe': Mayor reacts to reform ultimatum. Government gives local councils three months to decide who stays and who goes.
New fertiliser factory offers hope to farmers amid supply crisis
New fertiliser factory offers hope to farmers amid supply crisis
Government backs Chateau Tongariro restoration as mayor welcomes ‘win’
The Government is backing the restoration of the Chateau Tongariro, launching a formal process to find private operators to revive the historic hotel. Ruapehu mayor Weston Kirton says the step recognises strong public support for saving the landmark
Chiefs set for Rotorua return as community rallies behind April fixture
The Chiefs will face Moana Pasifika on April 11 after a plan to play in Tonga fell over. It will technically be an away fixture, but will take place in Chiefs country, which will undoubtedly lead to a swell of support in red, black and yellow
'Common sense has prevailed': Waikite Valley parole facility plans scrapped
Controversial plans to relocate a live-in rehabilitation facility for up to 10 prison parolees to an isolated Waikite Valley site have been withdrawn following fierce community opposition.