Latest fromBay of Plenty Times

Authority rules on claims Tauranga 'now hiring' election ad was misleading
The council says the advert was intended to be tongue-in-cheek.

Famous trail to be farewelled as MTB nationals return
The famed Taniwha Trail to be used for the final time.

Pub faces devastating delays after fire
Good Local had an electrical fire and rebuilding is still not under way.

Traffic builds after car rolls blocking SH29A bridge
NZTA says delays should be expected in both directions.

You need to register your canine friend - but the price has gone up
Registration fees help fund education programmes, events and dog shelters.

Tauranga mayoral race: Q&A with Donna Hannah
Local Democracy Reporting asked the 15 mayoral candidates their thoughts on four topics.

NZTA issues warning to SH2 vandals after hearts, 'offensive' tags appear
The tagging, thought to be linked to recent protests, has been reported to police.

Tauranga mayoral race: Q&A with Andrew Caie
Local Democracy Reporting asked the 15 mayoral candidates their thoughts on four topics.

Tauranga mayoral race: Q&A with Anthony Goddard
Local Democracy Reporting asked the 15 mayoral candidates their thoughts on four topics.

The Green Room graduates to paint the town red
It’s been two years since the launch of TBOP's first The Green Room programme.

Kris Shannon: The beginning of the end for Kane Williamson
OPINION: The situation provides a chance to reflect on what might have been.

International recognition for young filmmaker Malachi Steel
Malachi produced his film with a crew of friends.

Mother of man left dead on side of road still waiting for police apology
Police failed to send an officer out until morning.

House of Shem headline Te Puke’s Matariki celebrations
Festival will have a strong focus on Māori kai

'Significant damage': What caused a 'chaotic' train derailment
The train derailed near Te Puke during the Auckland Anniversary weekend floods.

'A Pandora’s box': Fears over toxic wood waste removal at harbour site
One councillor believes 'it’s quite a frightening situation'.

Residents have their say on Long-Term Plan
Social media comments used as an indication of community sentiment.

'God ... steered us to his plan': Housing development for elderly under way
Te Puke property development providing housing for elderly entering next stage of project.

Western BOP events and gig guide
Events and gig guide for Katikati, Ōmokoroa, Te Puna and Waihī Beach.

Election candidate was jailed for drug crime: 'I've learned from my mistakes'
Convicted offender Ashley Hillis wants to show that people can change for the better.

Kiwicoast Lions’ book fair coming Matariki weekend
High school teams help with the set up and pack down.

Activist tells of racism, acid attacks and needing a soldier protect her at school
'If you people are willing to do all this to keep me out, I should be here.'

Te Awanui hopeful opens up on drug import conviction
Ashley Hillis says his past makes him a strong contender for the seat.

Pongakawa wetland: Extension work starts
Earthworks on a 1.6ha strip of land alongside State Highway 2 have started.

Body found near Wairere Falls: Family of Pauline Grey thank police, iwi for search
A rāhui is in place on the Wairere Falls Track for the next seven days.

Sellers scammed, thieves pretend to pay
Arrests and apprehensions, burglaries and thefts in and around Katikati.