West Coast

Two men operating a large cannabis growing operation in a huge underground bunker have been jailed.

Buller District Mayor Jamie Cleine says ratepayers have paid out $20,000 for a defamation suit - but the true cost is much higher.

The Buller District Council has reached an agreement with Nelson-based Originair, which will start services from 3 January.

Claims by Buller Mayor Jamie Cleine that Westport accountant Frank Dooley assaulted former deputy mayor Sharon Roche are untrue and defamatory, Dooley's lawyer says.

Winter and a wetter-than-usual spring have kept West Coast regional council staff on their toes this year.

"Some witnesses saw a fist, others did not," Buller Mayor Jamie Cleine's lawyer told the court in his closing submission.

The document, meant to cover the the planning rules for Buller, Grey and Westland, has cost has cost the West Coast Regional Council $5.6 million since 2019.

Frank Dooley allegedly threatened Sharon Roche at a public meeting in Westport in February 2022.

Leo Lozano had gone to Westport Hospital complaining of stomach pain, and was sent home. He died hours later.

Council planners are being told to speak in plain English when they communicate with the public.

Frank Dooley is suing Buller Mayor Jamie Cleine for defamation after claiming he raised his fist to the former Buller deputy mayor.

Frank Dooley is suing Buller Mayor Jamie Cleine for defamation.

Jamie Cleine was motivated by ill will when he accused Frank Dooley of physically assaulting the deputy mayor at a public meeting, the Westport District Court has been told.

A front is expected to move up the South Island on Tuesday.

The mine will have reduced hours due to its location next to wetlands and concerns for native birds.

More than 35,000 people marched on Saturday and there's more to come, Jules Radich says. Audio

Some 35,000 people turned out to protest on Saturday after ministers announced they would scale back the hospital rebuild project.