Latest from Bay of Plenty

$6.5m in unpaid rates owed to Western Bay of Plenty council

The council says a significant portion of unpaid rates is related to Māori freehold land.

'I know what I've put in': Lisa Carrington on becoming NZ's most successful Olympian

"Those scary things you don't want to look at ... there's some gold on the other side."

Dawn Picken: Apologies are the first step, not the last word

Saying sorry is just a first step.

Bryce Heard: Why are farmers frustrated? We've got short memories

OPINION: Many of today's farmers are the grandchildren of people like my father.

Four deaths, five days: How a rampage has left families broken

Three heartbroken mothers speak out about coping with their loved ones' brutal deaths.

The state of Bay hospitals: Operating theatres at capacity, $15m to build more

Growing waiting lists and missed targets for elective surgery are the cause.

Council takes action on climate change, 'albeit 30 years too late'

Fewer frosts, hotter days and a higher chance of extreme rainfall events are likely.

Police investigating unexplained death in Katikati

Emergency services were notified about the death on Wednesday.

Vehicle crashes through worksite

The crash was reported at 10.32pm.

'Already started looking': Pensioner considering leaving Tauranga due to rates rises

This comes after an average rates rise of 15 per cent was adopted in the Long-term Plan.

Bay of Plenty economy outperforms rest of NZ post Covid-19, despite job concerns - report

The Bay of Connections report highlights growth in concerns and house values.

Urgent meeting called after multiple staff resign from community centre

A community hui will take place tonight at the Merivale Community Centre.

Zizi Sparks: Housing inquiry should give solutions as well as answers

Opinion: We need more than inquiries if we want to make a difference.

Arrangement tackles seasonal worker shortage: Good move or too little, too late?

Seasonal workers from three countries will be able to enter New Zealand from next month.

How much would you pay for a tomato? Prices climb, approach all-time high

Loose tomatoes were on sale for $14.99 a kilo at one supermarket.

'Rectify this immediately': Petitioners tell council

The petition said the bitumen stuck to car tyres and shoes and caused ringing in the ears.