Latest from Taupo & Turangi

The best cosy cabins in New Zealand for a winter getaway
There’s no better time to go off-grid than in the midst of a New Zealand winter.

Opinion: Water issues reveal the burden on ratepayers is already too great
Ratepayers may face doubled costs when new water entities take over.

Delays on SH1 near Taupō after slip
NZTA says SH1 between Taupō and Tūrangi is under stop/go traffic management.

Watch: Aerial footage of BoP flooding, unstable trees to be felled
Four trees on SH2 in Tauranga will be felled due to destabilisation.

Editorial: Make a stand against abuse
OPINION: Prospective candidates are thinking twice about standing in local elections.

Whakapapa 'geared up' ahead of new season
More than 1600 people applied for jobs for the winter season.

Taupō businessman to face trial on rape, bribery charges
The man is one of three accused of trying to bribe the complainant.

‘It’s all backwards’: Father admitted to bar thanks to his daughter
"It was a very proud moment to say the least."

NZ's power system well-placed for winter - analyst
Lake levels are close to average, easing fears of a power shortage.

Opinion: Why NZ should ditch yachts and chase cheese
Opinion: Forget the America’s Cup with its handbag-dog energy. The Cheese Cup is NZ's cup.

Desert Rd reopens six hours after fatal crash
Police thanked motorists for their patience during the afternoon closure.

Swells reach 10m at Wellington Harbour entrance as polar blast hits
There's also been nearly a metre of snow at Mt Hutt, and fire crews rescuing motorists.

Supercars showdown: NZ drivers eye Perth glory in tight championship
Ryan Wood aims to turn his speed into points at Perth this weekend.

'Big push now': Trainer's plea to save wild Kaimanawa horses
Bex Tasker says there’s more urgent work to be done to help the heritage horse breed.

Four rescued from BoP floodwaters
Fire and Emergency responded to two incidents to rescue four from floodwaters.

New hut in works as Tongariro Great Walk delays opening
Walkers face a 20km trek between Mangatepopo and Waihohonu huts.

Hundreds without power across North Island, road snowfall warnings in South Island
Meanwhile, Fire and Emergency were called to 60 incidents in the upper north.

Thunderstorm warnings across top half of North Island as heavy rain lashes Akl
Warnings of localised flooding, severe gales, waves reaching 6.5 metres and snow.

Is Puglia worth visiting? Where to stay and eat around the region
Seeking the ‘real Italy’? Visit this coastal gem before it gets popular

'Cold air rushing in': Wintry blast to lash NZ, bringing snow, rain and strong winds
Strong wind watches are in place for Auckland, Northland and Bay of Plenty.

'State of disbelief': Man in court accused of murdering Tokoroa father
Rapana Heretini, a father of two, died on May 29 at Waikato Hospital.