Latest from Whakatane

Appeal withdrawn over unlawful removal of Te Urewera huts
Te Uru Taumatua has withdrawn its appeal against the High Court ruling.

'Needs to be killed': Gang president allegedly ordered fatal attack on fellow member
After nearly three weeks of evidence, counsel have begun delivering closing statements.

Heavy rain warnings: BoP acts like 'scoop' for wild weather
A severe thunderstorm watch is in place for the region tonight.

Wet, wet, wet: Rain warning for BoP as more tropical weather looms
An orange rain warning begins at 10am, lasting until 3am Friday.

MetService warns of heavy rain for Nelson, Tasman amid flooding
Tasman expects up to 150mm of rain; Nelson forecasts 80-100mm.

Fresh weather warnings issued for BoP
Up to 180mm of rain is expected in areas east of Whakatāne.

Data show more Kiwis struggling to pay bills, behind on mortgage payments
Those most affected by financial hardship are aged between 35 and 49.

One person dead after serious two-vehicle crash in Waipā District
Emergency services were called to the scene at about 11.25am.

Claim councils 'bullied' into pursuing joint water services
'Leave us alone': One councillor's message to the Government.

Geothermal baths with silica terraces planned for BoP town
The project includes an 'attractive bath complex' using geothermal fluids.

Small but mighty: Kyro gets set for Tai Mitchell challenge
Kyro Uri, 12, plays first five for Rotorua Maroon in the Tai Mitchell Tournament.

Tears as private ambulance operators found guilty of forgery; altering documents
Private ambulance operators say they injected drugs into fruit as training exercises.

How Federated Farmers shapes policy for Bay of Plenty farmers
Brent Mountfort leads Federated Farmers in advocating for 500 members on rural issues.

Transport operators outraged over condition of SH2 bridge
More than 2000 vehicles use the bridge daily, including nearly 1000 trucks.

Revealed: The first four housing projects backed by $100m fund
It will enable 65 homes in Tauranga South, Pāpāmoa, Greerton and Bethlehem.

Shane Te Pou: Grassroots organisations key to stopping the cycle of abuse
A recent death highlights the tragic issue of young Māori being killed.

Police warn gangs after major drug operation
Police arrested 20 Greazy Dogs members over alleged meth crimes in Bay of Plenty.

Crusaders farewell 'temporary' home but will new stadium be ready for next season?
New stadium Te Kaha is expected to open in late April 2026.

'I hate him': Partner of slain Tribesman lays blame for death at president's feet
Mark 'Shark' Hohua was allegedly killed in a 'hot-box' beating for spending gang funds.

Ben Francis: Why State of Origin doesn't belong in New Zealand
OPINION: Tribalism is diluted when major sports events are exported to neutral territory.

'I wept': White Island tragedy doctor’s anguish at child’s death
The young doctor started a rotation training in intensive care on the day of the disaster.