The Bay of Plenty Times is looking back at some of the top stories of 2023.

All traffic will be detoured from Tuesday.

'We are so very grateful for the amazing support', says foodbank manager.

Co-captain pinpoints Tasman Carsons as Te Puke's matchwinner.

The hip hop and R&B festival will come to Tauranga on Sunday.

Rob Hewitt has reflected on his own ordeal of floating alone at sea for 72 hours.

The Bay of Plenty Times is looking back at the stories of 2023.

The crowd of about 8500 was 'pretty well-behaved', the festival organiser says.

Will Fransen spent nearly 24 hours drifting in the ocean without even a life jacket.

The man used the reflection of the sun on his watch to catch his rescuers' attention.

The number of dog-related incidents including dog attacks this year revealed.

Jordan van Deursen has been missing after heading into the bush two months ago.

Safety advice for swimmers also follows slew of shark sightings in the area.

Bay of Plenty Times is looking back at the stories of 2023.

Plus, 'tonnes of shark sightings' in busy day for Bay of Plenty and Coromandel lifeguards.

Experts say these sighting are common this time of year.

'It’s going to hurt him for a long time ... for two young lives to be taken so tragically'

'Don’t swim where people are fishing...and avoid swimming at dawn and dusk'.

Jordan van Deursen, 29, has not been seen after failing to return from a planned trip

Bay of Plenty road toll drops but a top cop is not celebrating.

The impact of unresolved homicides on families is devastating.

"This was my husband who had no reason to do this other than to satisfy his own sickness."

The Bay of Plenty Times is looking back at the stories of 2023.

Ōmokoroa Point School children have contributed to Waitekohekohe Recreational Park.

A new group in town is gearing up for historical celebrations next year.

“It was the longest hours of my life.”

Broadcaster describes dramatic scenes to followers as shark cruises shallows.

And agencies are expecting an influx this holiday period.