Media Bay of Plenty

After years of public demand, Whakatāne District Council has approved a one-stage approach for renewal of the Whakatāne War Memorial Hall that is expected to save as much as $2 million more than the original two-stage proposal.

Work to remove sand build-up at the Ōpihi Spit near the Whakatāne River mouth will begin next week to help maintain flood preparedness.

Ōpōtiki District Council has confirmed Motu Road is scheduled to reopen at midday on Friday, 18 September, subject to the completion of remaining safety works.

Whakatane Hospital's orthopaedic care department has cleared a large backlog of patients who have been waiting the longest for care