Latest from Rotorua

Jury returns verdict in Whakatāne murder trial

A jury in a High Court murder trial has returned its verdict.

Local Focus: Pest checks on boats are ramping up as weather warms

Biosecurity officers to patrol Bay of Plenty boat ramps to stop the spread of pests.

Delta outbreak: 109 cases - new infections in Northland, Waikato; Auckland vaccine rate latest

There are 35 people in hospital around the country.

Locations of interest named in Tokoroa before Rotorua flight

The case is currently isolating in Blenheim.

Mountain bikers keen to be back on track for Crankworx Rotorua 2021

It's not clear whether spectators are able to be trackside.

Jo Raphael: The irony of red tape giving us more freedom

OPINION: Those wanting more freedom must be willing to prove their vaccination status.

Rob Rattenbury: Facing perils of Facebook

OPINION: A closed and private Facebook group may not be as safe as you think.

What you need to know about this week

Significant events happening locally and nationally over the coming week.

Hollie Smith 'bursting at the seams' to showcase her new album

Hollie Smith discusses her new solo album and its tour in the works.

Tributes like kids' emotion haka for Wainui a way to show we care in Covid times

OPINION: Restrictions on funerals have been one of the hardest parts of the Covid era.

Urgent push to lift NZ's lowest jab rates for new 'traffic light' system

Business and community leaders react to the Government's Covid 19 protection framework.

Repeat drink-driver jailed for killing 'life and soul' of community

Ismael Mitai has been sentenced to jail after causing the death of a New Plymouth man.

'Direct attack': Māori Party demands apology from Mallard over vax comments

"We expect a retraction ... and a public apology to both Mr Pem Bird and Te Pāti Māori."

White Island defendants' trial date starts in July 2023

The trial is for those charged in the wake of the Whakaari / White Island eruption.

A bustling break: Plenty of ways to have fun for long weekend

There are things to do and see this Labour weekend, while supporting locals too

Wigs, tutus and pink galore for virtual walk fundraiser

There was a force of pink on Wednesday as people supported Rotorua Breast Cancer Trust.