Latest from Matamata-Piako District

Waikato farmer cautiously optimistic about visa rule changes

“It’s not a game-changer, but is going in the right direction."

Rural community still cherishes their hall

The Hunga Hunga Hall has been part of the Waikato rural community since 1954.

48 firefighters, 1 helicopter battling digger and vegetation fire

The fire was reported after 3pm.

La Dorada claims local victory in Matamata feature

Filly backed up her stunning victory at Karaka with another success.

Walker heads home to Matamata

It was easy for Mark Walker to choose Matamata over Flemington as his racing destination.

Morrinsville A&P Show goes from strength to strength

The town's population is less than 10,000. Last year 8000 people attended its A&P Show.

Matamata outing perfect timing for NZB Kiwi hope

Stephen Marsh’s in-form stable will have an array of stakes contenders in action.

'Quite fit': Legarto ready for return after year-long break

Co-trainer Ken Kelso says Legarto has been busy on the water walker and treadmill.

Opinion: Why can’t we stop watching Find My Country House NZ?

OPINION: Nothing much happens in this property series, but it’s rating through the roof.

McDonald’s worker injured after arm gets stuck in rubbish compactor

Emergency services were called to the scene about 1.30am.

Farmer, soldier, vet: The man behind Comley Green

Nichol Ashton Larney arrived in NZ in 1875 and became prominent in the Piako District.

A look at the new Hobbiton Movie Set behind the scenes tour

Reporter Mitchell Hageman experiences a previously unseen glimpse of the famous Hobbiton Movie Set in Matamata, with a new behind-the-scenes tour now open. Video / Mitchell Hageman

Two young men, two bad decisions, two grieving families – Coroner issues festive season warning

Drink-driving: 'Do not do it ... and do everything you can to stop anyone else.'

SH1 at Karāpiro to close up to four times a year for maintenance works

The first closure will take place for four days in January.

New CEO has spent 30 years with Matamata council

Manaia Te Wiata has been the council's group manager for business support for 30 years.

How $20 and two cannabis roaches got two men locked up for three years

'Clearly, it was a stupid thing to do', a judge pointed out.

SH29 Piarere roundabout approach in need of urgent repairs

Emergency road repairs are being carried out tomorrow, November 28.

Victims traumatised: Teen robber on e-bail robs petrol station, twice

One of the staff members was injured after being kicked in the face.