Latest fromWhakatane

‘Treated like an animal’: Gang member involved in mob killing kept in kennel as a baby
The three-day sentencing came to an end with lengthy jail terms handed down.

‘Bigger and better’: Bay food festival returns with a culinary feast
Highlights include cocktail stories, a progressive lunch, and a pasta class.

Eruptions, quakes, tsunamis: Barry's journey to policing legend
His contributions include work on the Christchurch earthquake and the Whakaari eruption.

Man charged with murder after Kawerau death
The accused will appear in Hamilton District Court tomorrow.

Man charged after alleged break-in at Murupara police station
A man broke into the unmanned Murupara police station at 6:45am yesterday.

Man in custody after allegedly forcing his way into unmanned police station
Armed police were called to the scene but police say there was no public danger.

‘Explosive activity’ at Whakaari: Ballistic blocks ejected 600m
Vent temperatures rose from 220C in January to 360C recently.

Man charged with manslaughter, unlawful hunting after Kawerau man’s death
A man will appear in the Rotorua District Court accused of Stuart Stobie's manslaughter.

'Tragically taken': Tributes flow for 'beautiful man' killed on hunting trip
Stuart Stobie was 'tragically taken in a hunting accident'.

‘Loads of maggots’: Woman traumatised by alleged treatment of brother’s dead body
'I thought I could grieve my baby brother and let them take over ... I feel so dumb.'

Whakatāne council sets 11.7% rate rise in draft budget compromise
Only two councillors, Andrew Iles and John Pullar, voted against the increase.

How NZ scientists aim to protect critically endangered leatherbacks
Experts from three countries are studying leatherback turtles in Whakatāne.

‘Impotent talkfest’: Debate over council’s proposed health advisory group
Councillors support investigating the group but fear it becoming a 'talkfest'.

Mitch Rees dominates NZ Superbikes, clinches third national title
He secured his third title in the premier 1000cc superbike class.

‘Great news’: Early ramp opening to ease Pāpāmoa traffic
The eastbound ramps at Pāpāmoa East Interchange may open in late 2025.

Doctor shortage: How long could it take to recruit for Whakatāne’s maternity ward?
Plus, how many overseas doctors are being considered for the positions.

Rare Bay of Plenty postal note and stamps in $1.5m auction
A Whakatāne postal note from 1893 is valued at $500 for the auction.

‘Not an early St Patrick’s Day’: Resident on dog poo bag antics
Woman's fence frequently ends up covered in green bags.

Heroic rescue: Man saves neighbours from burning house
One person was sleeping, and another was gaming with his door shut and headphones on.

‘World’s first’: NZ mill’s tissue machine to run on geothermal steam
The mill invested $20m to upgrade its paper machine.

Whakaari-White Island memorial project requires further hapū engagement
$90,000 was raised this year, with hopes for central government funding.