Local Council
'Won't work': Mayor hits out at government's new rates cap
Wayne Brown has taken aim at the policy, suggesting the government should start paying rates on its own properties. Audio
Mayors warn of more charges due to rates rise cap
Mayors are warning we may be charged for libraries and see price hikes for other council services as the Government puts a cap on rates rises. Gisborne District Council mayor Rehette Stoltz spoke to… Audio
Whakatane community boards still to find members, river cleanup
The Whakatane River bridge is being hit by debris - including dead horses - Diane McCarthy reports from the Eastern Bay Audio
Local government's big shakeup
Regional councils have to find a different way of operating that cuts down on double ups and layers of bureaucracy Audio
Budget, City Rail behind proposed rate hike - Auckland Mayor
Wayne Brown says his proposal is focused on delivering smarter services and faster progress to strengthen communities and businesses.
The Panel with Tim Batt and Aimie Hines, Part 1
Tonight, on The Panel, Wallace Chapman is joined by panellists Tim Batt and Aimie Hines. First up, rates caps are here. From 2027, councils won't be able to increase rates by more than 4 percent per… Audio
Local councils relieved with govt's rates capping approach
But some want assurance the policy will not affect local councils' ability to invest in core services and infrastructure.
Details of council rates cap revealed
Councils are once again being told to start living within their means and focus on the basics, with the government releasing details of its long-awaited rates cap. Instead of a fixed cap, the… Audio
Community rallies behind Castlepoint Hotel after liquor licence lost
The Hotel confirmed they closed the bar after hoping they would be able to keep serving alcohol while the appeals process was underway.
Are community Christmas trees money well spent?
As the festive season approaches one of the most iconic symbols of Christmas - the community Christmas tree - is going up in towns and cities around the country. Our reporters in Wellington, Auckland… Audio
The most significant changes to regional councils in decades
Delving into the most significant changes to regional councils in decades. Audio
Councillors given up to $5500 for security after rise in threats
The allowance is one of a number available to elected officials as set out by the Remuneration Authority.
Kaipara leader urges Kai Iwi Lakes closure to protect against gold clam threat
Around 7500 people will be camping at Kai Iwi Lakes over summer.
Morning Report Essentials for Friday 28 November 2025
Disgusted, disappointed and furious - those are words of Simone Bennett reacting to the government's announcement that the long-awaited National Erebus Memorial will be built in Christchurch; Tourism… Audio
Aucklanders oppose fortnightly bin collection
Public consultation on Auckland Council's proposed six-month trial of fortnightly kerbside rubbish collections shows 78% of submitters opposed the trial. General manager for waste solutions, Justine… Audio
Tauranga residents call asphalt fix a “cheap seal”
Tauranga City Council have agreed to use chipseal - or cheap seal as some residents call it - to resurface roads. But it's providing an option for residents who prefer to keep their existing asphalt… Audio
Local board votes against Eden Park proposal
Albert-Eden Local Board has been in the firing line after rejecting a motion to throw its support behind a proposal to loosen restrictions on Eden Park. Board chair Margi Watson spoke to Ingrid… Audio
Aucklanders against plan to trial fortnightly rubbish collections
Auckland Council received 5086 submissions on a proposed trial to halve the number of kerbside collections in parts of the city
Outrage as local board votes against more Eden Park events
An Auckland business association is infuriated that their local board has voted not to support a plan to boost the number of gigs allowed the stadium. Audio
Regional councils demise: The plans, timeline and thorny issues
Explainer - The government is intent on reform, however, many questions on the "reset" remain unanswered. Audio
