The Fresh Zealand Government is investing more than $800,000 to repair critical sections of the New Zealand Cycle Trail network following significant storm damage. The funding is specifically targeted at three “Great Rides”: the Hauraki Rail Trail, the Waikato River Trail, and Tasman’s Great Taste Trail. Supporting Regional Tourism and Business Tourism and Hospitality Minister … Read more
A two-vehicle collision near Rotorua has left two people dead and another seriously injured. The incident occurred around 5:30 am at the intersection of State Highway 36 and Leonard Rd in Ngongotaha. Investigation into Cause Initial enquiries indicate that the crash happened after one of the vehicles crossed the centre line. Police are currently working … Read more
Sixteen individuals have been arrested for their alleged roles in one of the country’s most significant drug smuggling syndicates. The operation specifically targeted young New Zealanders, some as young as 19, using social media platforms for recruitment. Large-Scale Methamphetamine Transport Customs officials allege that 252kg of methamphetamine was transported into the country. These shipments occurred … Read more
Rotorua Mayor Tania Tapsell and councillor Merepeka Raukawa-Tait have strongly denied allegations of a “coordinated” attack against fellow elected member Robert Lee. The dispute follows a dramatic walk-out by Lee during a council workshop. Conflict at the Strategy Workshop The incident occurred during a Rotorua Lakes Council workshop focused on play, active recreation, and sport … Read more
Two boys have died after a riverbank collapsed on the Tarawera River near Boyce Park in Kawerau, police say. The boys, aged 10 and 12, were trapped after the bank gave way whereas they were fishing and playing with a group of children around 11.30am today. Tragic Circumstances Police officers immediately swam across the river … Read more
Whangamatā’s annual Beach Hop car event saw a significantly higher number of arrests this year compared to recent years, according to police reports. Tens of thousands of people attended the event on the Coromandel Peninsula, but authorities responded to increased anti-social behaviour as night fell. Increased Police Presence Eastern Waikato area commander Inspector Mike Henwood … Read more
After four years of traffic disruption, the Pāpāmoa East Interchange is complete and set to open to the public at the end of the month following a blessing on March 30. A Recent Era for Commuters The $98 million interchange, featuring an overbridge across the Tauranga Eastern Link/State Highway 2, is designed to improve connectivity … Read more
Recent maintenance issues at cemeteries in Rotorua, New Zealand, have left mourners disappointed, with weeds growing to heights exceeding headstones. Concerns Raised Over Cemetery Upkeep Karen Gardiner, who regularly visits the Kauae Cemetery to pay respects to her daughter Kristi-Rae Ruri-Gardiner, who died in 2010, expressed her dismay at the current conditions. She stated the … Read more
Rotorua Lakes Council is moving forward with plans to switch to fortnightly general rubbish collection, despite facing pushback from residents who have launched an online petition opposing the change. New Waste System Coming to Rotorua Following community consultation in 2022, the council decided to introduce a Food Organics and Green Organics (FOGO) collection service. Residents … Read more
A tropical low is forecast to affect parts of New Zealand’s North Island in the coming days, with weather watches now in effect for strong winds and heavy rainfall. Weather Watches Issued A strong wind watch is in place for the Far North from midday today. Downpours are expected to trigger a heavy rain watch … Read more