Three major Selwyn projects could be delayed by six-month lizard surveys costing $14,000 each, the mayor says.
Shoppers lingered longer in central Blenheim on Friday, as a one-off free parking day eased pressure to rush and drew praise from locals.
The move is set to shut cars out of Kāwhia Beach after years of damage to pipi beds, fish spawning grounds and nesting birds.
Cyclists can again use the remote route after seasonal work and seven wider crossings improved safety before summer.
Residents and emergency crews stand to benefit as Waipā District Council moves to lower 12 speed bumps in Cambridge and Kihikihi for $310,000.
Boaties launching at Lake Taharoa must use a new automated gate and PIN system as Northland steps up action against the invasive freshwater clam.
Motorists are being hit hardest by Rotorua's parking overhaul, with nearly 44% of fines blamed on missed licence plate registration deadlines.
Residents will hear updated advice on whether stopbanks and infrastructure at Franz Josef can withstand the Waiho River's shifting flood risk.
Sheep will keep grazing beneath the panels as the 42-megawatt project gives a Canterbury farmer a second income stream and helps feed the grid.
Weather remains the main risk to Ashburton's second bridge, but NZTA says the NZD $134-$144 million project is still on time and on budget.
After deducting running and overhead costs, Porirua City Council made a $210,000 profit from city centre paid parking last year.
Visitors to Cathedral Cove could regain access before Christmas as a new reroute is set to cost $121,000, well below the 2024 estimate.
North Canterbury councils warn the cap could delay bridge and road work, forcing hard choices for small ratepayer bases and freight links.
Council backing for a revised master plan means detailed design work can begin on parking and traffic fixes at the busy sports park.
Waimakariri ratepayers could face nearly $500,000 in annual audit costs, as the mayor says the money is being diverted from core services.
Passengers in Samoa will gain cleaner island links as five solar-powered catamarans start service, cutting diesel use and transport emissions.
His regional victory sends Marcus Ingram to the national finals after he beat eight other operators in Hastings.
Expectant mothers were flown or driven to Nelson for safety after temporary staffing gaps at Wairau Hospital exposed Marlborough's obstetrics shortage.
Flood damage has left the reserve closed for months, with repairs estimated at $35,000 and new toilets costing $148,000 before campers can return.
Households could face higher bills as Northland's councils push the new water provider to prioritise affordability over investment pressures.
