Latest from Bay of Plenty

Cruisin' for a bruising: Mega cruise ships banned in Tahiti from 2022

Mega cruise ships gear up for a long-awaited season, but they won't be sailing to Tahiti.

'Huge expectation and hope': Iconic attraction's reopening buoys tourism leaders

The reopening comes on the cusp of summer, tourism providers hope for eased restrictions.

Vaccine mandate: Half of teachers at some schools don't want jab - principal

There are concerns for schools with large numbers of staff who did not want the vaccine.

'Failures test us': Rotorua trainer of last-placed horse eyes 2022 Melbourne Cup

"Failures test us but it's learning from them."

Local Focus: Walking with the rhythm of Mauao

Experience the rhythm of Mauao - Mount Maunganui - through a soundscape app.

'Old system': Some Bay schools phase out streaming for junior students

Streaming at John Paul College will stop from the start of next year.

'Low belief and low self-esteem': Bay schools phase out class streaming

Tauranga Boys College is making the switch to mixed-ability junior classes.

Father set fire to son: 'I still wake up screaming twice a night'

Victim with 'lifetime of healing' ahead is determined to be a better man despite attack.

Homeless say trying to survive is a 'full-time job'

Men who have been rough sleepers for years speak about their struggles.

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.

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."

Cartel-linked drugs plot alleged: Nine men defend cocaine and P charges

Operation Tarpon alleged drug importation and drug dealing defendants heading to trial.

Sean Wainui's whānau and friends seek Auckland travel exemptions to attend tangi

Officials are considering travel exemptions, but say there are limits to numbers.

Man who lived in cave among million-dollar houses has a new home

But he says a family should have been priority for the house.

'Matahui magic': School facing closure now has a solid future

In July the school announced it was struggling financially and would be forced to close.