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
Check river levels – flows are low
Council is asking people who take water from rivers to keep an eye on flows.
Tug wash poses major risk for boaties
Stay clear of tugboats operating, as more ships are using the harbour with the completion of Berth 7
Matawai playground and waharoa welcomed by students
A family space for tamariki and whānau was the priority for Matawai and Motu communities
Spot and stop moth plant
Help stop the spread of this highly invasive pest
Bridge repair programme reaches 75 percent
Bridge programme of repairs and rebuilds making good progress
Double win for Tairāwhiti innovation at national ALGIM awards
Two Cyclone Gabrielle-driven initiatives have won Project of the Year at the ALGIM Awards.
The people behind the trees
Recycled wooden Christmas trees brought to life by the hands of our community.
Restoration begins on Tauihu carving at Heipipi Park
Restoration work is set to begin on the Tauihu (canoe prow carving) ‘Tūranga Whakamana’ at Heipipi Endeavour Park.
Collaborative programme tackles woody debris at source
Significant progress continues to be made to reduce woody debris risks across Tairāwhiti.
Government proposal to simplify local government - what it means for Tairāwhiti
No immediate change to how services are delivered in Tairāwhiti as we are a unitary authority.
Special guests for sea wall assessments
Studies included lizard tracking, communicating with kororā and sampling of life in the sand and under rocks.
Call for water awareness as summer nears
City residents are encouraged to make small changes now to help reduce water demand.
Building services achieves strong IANZ audit result
Audit shows steady progress and improved performance for the Building Services team
New mobile traders bylaw takes effect
The bylaw regulates mobile trading in public places.
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