Stephen Ward

Donovan's council roles include being chairperson of the regulatory and hearings committee, which attracts a yearly stipend of nearly $100,000, and deputy chairperson of the economic development committee.

Levies went up from $35 to $100 a head last year and this is expected to raise well over $100 million extra annually.Rge

Stephen Ward A plan change to manage Hamilton flooding risks, and a nearly finished online tool showing homeowners how real the danger is

The atmosphere at Mangakōtukutuku College in Melville improved considerably last year and further gains can be expected in 2025, says the school's state-appointed limited statutory manager.

Plans for hefty “user pays” hikes in city council alcohol licensing fees have sparked significant concerns for an under pressure hospitality sector.

Noise complaints look to be on the rise in Hamilton, whether for stereos, dogs, skids or something else.

An appeal by the operator of Nawton's new Fresh In Fresh Out supermarket against the business being refused an off licence to sell beer and wine has been confirmed.

A notorious spot for boy racer activity at a business park in Horotiu is being targeted by Waikato District Council as it looks to join adjoining councils in clamping down on anti-social driving.

CBD retailers have endured tough economic times but a senior business leader is seeing more optimistic signals, while shop owners have mixed views about 2025.

Alcohol sellers should not get any ratepayer “subsidy” for the cost of licensing fees, says a former deputy mayor who's labelled the practice “obscene and criminal”.