We hold media releases on our website for the past year. If you're after something published earlier, please contact us at MediaEnquiry@gdc.govt.nz
2025 media releases
Kaumātua walk connects whānau at Kiwa Pools
'Walk the 35" a dedicated group of kaumātua have been walking the width of the learn-to-swim pool every morning
Milestone day for new council
New Deputy Mayor, Aubrey Ria will be appointed at the 13th inaugural council meeting
Official opening of Te Ikaroa a Rauru
Te Ikaroa a Rauru, the ancestral waka, has been acknowledged through the naming of a new walkway bridge in Turanga.
Statement on Investment in Local Waste Solutions for Tairāwhiti
Council is taking steps to future-proof waste management in Tairāwhiti.
Get set for summer camping
Apply for a permit before arriving at your site - you can get a permit online
Have your say on the future of the Waikanae Stream
Share your thoughts on the future of the Waikanae Stream - Te Waikanae Awa Project
Last days to vote
Voting in the local body elections closes at 12 midday Saturday 11 October.
Final stage of Waipaoa stopbank upgrades underway
Work includes the stopbank along the northern side of the Whakaahu Stream, the western side of the Waipaoa River around Waituhi, Kaitaratahi, and Waipaoa.
Bigger fines for polluters under new RMA changes
From 4 September 2025, environmental infringement fines have jumped significantly.
Tiniroto bypass designs ready
The first designs of the Tiniroto bypass are now available to see
Prepare to ShakeOut
Education is key to preparedness and there is no better time to practice that than ShakeOut 2025.
Update on the Taruheru shared pathway
An update on the long-envisioned Taruheru River shared pathway was presented to Councillors.
Council will seek government exemption to progress Urban plan change
Progressing the Urban Plan change and seeking an exemption under the Government’s new plan stop legislation was endorsed at the Council meeting today.
Council calls for regionally responsive reforms in national direction feedback to Government
Council has lodged its formal submissions on the Government’s proposed changes to national resource management direction.
Fairy house brings magic to Botanical Gardens
A touch of enchantment has arrived at the Botanical Gardens.
Government direction on plan changes
Council will need to pause or withdraw notifying plan changes on some planning work following a new directive from the Government.
Funding boost for local arts
Funding applications are open for Creative Communities Scheme and close 29 August
Strategic partnership cemented
Signed a MoU that strengthens the collaborative relationship between our region’s key business advocate and local government.
Applications open for 2026 Natural Heritage Fund
Applications close Wednesday 20 August 2025 for projects starting in 2026.
Council confirms 2025 appointments to Trust Tairāwhiti
The appointment of Te Pūoho Kātene and the reappointment of Ron Aitken to the Trust Tairāwhiti Board of Trustees.
New roading plan endorsed to tackle region's network crisis
The plan sets a realistic and forward-thinking framework for future decision-making.
Students step into Council careers with ‘Day in the Life’ programme
Council welcomed rangatahi from across the region to experience a unique behind the scenes look at local government.
Critical regional sites receive TEMO boost
Ngāti Porou Hauora at Te Puia now has a 10,000 litre fuel tank in place to ensure the hospital can operate its generator during an emergency.
Calling the voices of Tairāwhiti to enrol, stand and vote
Candidate nominations open 4 July. If you're thinking of standing we invite you to a candidate information evening.