Local Council

But Andrea Reeves stressed it is not their preferred option.

The rapport established with the mayor, councillors and senior staff will be key to sorting out the troubles at Wellington council, Lindsay Mckenzie says. Audio

Almost two years on from the Auckland Anniversary floods and Cyclone Gabrielle, residents are still picking up the pieces from ruined homes. Audio

Water restrictions are now in place in Hawke's Bay, meaning residents are limited on how and when they can water their grass.

Geoff Thomas - of Outdoors with Geoff fame - has called a council's claim "scandalous".

The 18m tall tree will cost Auckland Council $800,000 with the rest of the reported $1.3 million coming from private organisations.

Will Rotorua motels house the homeless for another year? Commissioner to consider evidence, following emergency housing motel hearing.

Tourists driving on a road next to the Dart River in Otago found the road had been undermined, and had to quickly scramble out of the car.

Some of Gisborne's asphalt roads will be switched to unsealed as the district council looks to save money, and public meetings have been held to discuss the impact.

There were several incidents of vandalism at the $10.8 million Hayman Park I Manukau Iho Noa playground and a further 15 in the local area have also been damaged.

Big plans for tourism at the zoo may be a victim of Wellington City Council's budget woes.

Auckland's three other shelters are full or over-capacity, with more than 8000 dogs impounded in the last year.

Retail NZ, Hospitality NZ and the Bus and Coach Association are among those seeking changes to the multi-million dollar project. Audio

A nationwide campaign to have horse riders officially recognised as vulnerable road users has been offered some support.

The details of the council scheme are still be finalised, but one resident says it still leaves some people in limbo.