Bay Of Plenty

Whānau returning home to their ancestral lands will be supported through the economic turmoil of Covid-19 as promised funding is finalised.

Unique, cracked rocks on Whakaari/White Island allow gas to escape, easing the build-up of pressure that triggers volcanic eruptions, but can become clogged and act like valves.

Some of Ōpōtiki's rural ratepayers can look forward to a small drop, but town-dwellers may be in for a rise.

Farmers are "disappointed" after Rotorua Lakes Council didn't make its own submission on a policy they say could result in a six percent rates rise.

A Whakatāne radio station plans to give $750 vouchers to about 1000 local business next week to try to bring the town back to life and get them spending again.

A man has been arrested following two suspicious fires in Mount Maunganui - one in a building housing the police station as well as other businesses.

Kawerau District Council has applied for more than $17 million in government funding to ensure its people stay employed following Covid-19.

Māori constituency councillors are calling for more than just "pretty words" when it comes to consulting with Māori.

The Whakatāne District Council is considering next steps to remove homes from the Awatarariki fanhead after the 2005 Matatā disaster.

Eight Bay of Plenty civic leaders have met to discuss infrastructure projects with the potential to employ thousands. Video

Kawerau District Council is preparing for tough and urgent discussions on the lockdown's financial impact.

Some Rotorua Lakes councillors are calling for a council-wide voluntary pay cut as the economic impacts of Covid-19 begin to bear down.

Ōpōtiki District Council is still getting to grips with the lockdown, but says staff layoffs aren't the answer.

The centre - similar to others around the country - was activated when the country entered a state of emergency.

Rotorua Lakes Council has admitted editing the public record of a meeting on the eve of the Covid-19 lockdown. Video

First person - Mount Maunganui is known as Mauao to local tangata whenua. And many people are happy it's getting a break during the lockdown.

Freedom campers have described a makeshift campground at a Whakatāne shopping centre as a breach of human rights.

Rotorua Lakes Council says no public matters were edited out of its recording of its pre-lockdown meeting. Video

The Bay of Plenty Regional Council has suspended public consultation for its annual plan, but will continue for crucial flood protection measures.