Media Bay of Plenty

Health New Zealand Te Whatu Ora’s Midland Region has begun consulting staff on a major restructuring proposal that could affect dozens of roles across the Bay of Plenty and wider central North Island, prompting concern from unions while health leaders insist frontline patient care will not be impacted.

Whakatāne District Council will explore future governance options to progress towards a proposal outline for the Government's Simplifying Local Government reforms. 

A new community theatre group hopes to bring more live performances to Ōpōtiki, starting with a Short Play Festival later this year.

Trust Horizon's bid to expand its charitable funding powers has cleared another hurdle in Parliament, with a private bill progressing through the select committee process and attracting widespread support from local organisations, councils, iwi and community groups.