Stories by Laura Smith

There have been flooded homes, threatened highways, and months of anxiety for Rotorua's lakeside communities. LDR's Laura Smith reports on the widespread impact of months of heavy rain.

A prominent businessman is calling for a ban on begging in the city after customers were "pestered" and staff had to be given panic buttons as beggar numbers rose.

Two rafting companies believe they and others have collectively lost at least $1 million as high flows keep them off the Kaituna River.

The development of a 13ha block of former forestry land has been announced for a city Regional Development Minister Kiri Allan says is "bursting at the seams".

New laws aimed at cracking down on gang activity were used for the first time yesterday following a funeral procession near Whakatāne for a slain Mongrel Mob boss, Justice Minister Kiri Allan says.

Abuse faced by city workers in Rotorua has more than tripled, with incidents including verbal and physical threats.

Rotorua's mayor has spoken about the "truly special" moment, and criticised the sector's staff shortages.

Rotoehu homeowner Joan Blair has gone from living her dream to her worst nightmare.

Rotorua's mayor wants urgent action to ensure long-term accommodation buildings are safe after the Loafers Lodge fire in Wellington last month which claimed five lives.

The community has had a gutsful and is frustrated about the illegal behaviour of dirt bike riders in Rotorua, a school principal says.

Submissions to the Lakes District Council annual plan have flooded into council offices this year - with more than 1500 people opting to have their say.

Members of the public are being urged to share their views on a speed limit review which Rotorua Lakes Council say is a sign of government overreach.

Rotorua Lakes Council is to test public support for a $81.4m restoration of the local museum or alternative options.

Rotorua residents may soon have a chance for a say on the future of their historic museum, which has been closed for seven years.