Media Bay of Plenty

Whakatāne District Council has adopted its Annual Plan for the 2026/27 financial year, confirming an average rates increase of 9.1% after finding additional savings across the organisation.

Residents were left stunned yesterday after reports emerged of a giant axolotl and an enormous rooster roaming the streets of Whakatāne, approaching unsuspecting members of the public and urging them to prepare for the upcoming election.

Whakatāne District Council has started a conversation about making water charges “fairer” and “clearer” for the district; however, decisions are yet to be made.

Whakatāne District Council is encouraging eligible ratepayers to apply for a rates rebate before applications close on June 30, highlighting recent changes to the Government's rebate scheme that could make more households eligible for financial assistance.