Keep up to date with current and upcoming road closures, roadworks, and emergency road status information in the Whakatāne District.
News
Heavy Rain Warning - 11-12 July
Heavy downpours and strong winds were felt overnight, and further showers are expected today.
Our district is saturated, so further slips, surface flooding, and rising rivers and streams are likely – especially near steep slopes and in low-lying areas. Please take care and drive to the conditions.
Report any issues:
- For urgent assistance, call us on 07 306 0500 (available 24/7)
- Non urgent assistance - log it here.
Kia noho haumaru – stay safe and look out for each other.
New variable speed zones introduced at Waimana and Te Mahoe Schools
New variable speed limits are now in place outside Waimana School and Te Mahoe School.
Pre-Election Report launches as Council gears up for local elections
The countdown to this year’s local elections is officially on, marked by the release of ‘All you need to know about the Council’ - Whakatāne District Council’s 2025 Pre-Election Report.
From pub chats to church votes: Council invites future leaders to get election-ready
Whakatāne District Council is stepping out of the chambers and into the community, with its second "Stand for Something | Tū Tūturu" candidate briefing session taking place at The Comm next Friday evening.
This year, you'll be able to learn about standing in a local election at your local, and later on, cast your vote in a church, amongst many other handy locations. It's a uniquely Whakatāne way to get involved in democracy - accessible, informal, and grounded in community.
Legendary story brought to light by Tāme Iti at Whakatāne light festival
Imagine stepping into the very moment light was born into the world.
This extraordinary experience awaits at Trust Horizon Light Up Whakatāne, where celebrated artist Tāme Iti and Te Mira Collective invite visitors to experience Ātea - a landmark light installation that brings ancient Māori creation stories to life through cutting-edge technology and breathtaking artistry.
Weather effects - July 3-4 2025
All weather warnings and watches for Whakatāne District have been lifted.
Our crews are working to clean up various roads this morning and we will keep you updated on this, and any road closures during the day.
New community fund launched to drive climate action and youth development
Whakatāne District Council and Trust Horizon have joined forces to launch a new fund to support bold, local responses to climate change and youth development.
The Whakatāne Community Climate Action and Youth Development Fund opens for its first funding round today (1 July 2025), with $95,000 available in the 2025/26 year.
The fund aims to back projects that reduce carbon emissions, build community resilience, and support rangatahi into climate-related education and training.
Three strikes system targets kerbside waste contamination
The Whakatāne District Council’s new ‘three strikes’ system to tackle bin contamination is now in effect, aiming to reduce the amount of recycling and greenwaste being sent to landfill and the costs that come with it.
Eastern Bay Councils Adopt 30-Year Plan for Growth and Development
Councils across the Eastern Bay have officially adopted the Our Places – Eastern Bay Spatial Plan (Spatial Plan), marking the beginning of a long-term, coordinated approach to managing growth, infrastructure, and development across the sub-region.
Council says yes to local water services, keeps door open for regional partnership
The Whakatāne District Council met today to confirm the future direction of water services in the district.
Te Ahi Tahutahu Charitable Trust to Ignite Creative Hub in Whakatāne's Historic Heart
A new chapter for the arts and community in Whakatāne is set to begin with the announcement of Ātea, a dynamic creative hub to be established at 266 The Strand, the iconic building formerly known as Wally Sutherland.
The project is being spearheaded by Te Ahi Tahutahu Charitable Trust, a collaboration between Tame Iti Limited and Te Whare Wānanga o Awanuiārangi.
Council adopts 2025/26 Annual Plan with reduced rates increase
Whakatāne District Council has formally adopted its Annual Plan for the 2025/26 financial year, confirming an average rates increase of 11.7% (which aligns with the average across councils nationwide).
The increase of 11.7% represents a reduction from the previously forecast 12.7% for Year 2 of the Long Term Plan 2024-34.
Funding available for Whakatāne District projects
Applications are now open for two key funding opportunities designed to support te reo Māori initiatives and water-related projects in the Whakatāne District.
Register early and save - dog registrations now open
Dog owners across the Whakatāne District are encouraged to register their dogs early.
Council services availability - Matariki 2025
Our main office will be closed Friday, 20 June in observance of Matariki. Most Council services will either have reduced opening hours or be closed entirely.
From resident to representation: Stand for something this election
Whakatāne District Council today launches its 2025 local election campaign – Stand for Something: Tū Tūturu.
The campaign calls on people from all walks of life to step up, be heard, and lead where they live. It also encourages residents and ratepayers to enrol, vote and help shape the future of the Whakatāne District.
Whakatāne District Council Chief Executive, Steven Perdia says local government needs voices that reflect the diversity, aspirations, and lived experiences of our people.
First Council buildings set to go solar
Whakatāne District Council is flicking the switch on solar, with installations set to begin in the coming weeks at three key Council facilities.
Between June and September, grid-tied solar systems will be installed at the Dog Pound, Whakatāne Resource Recovery Centre, and the Main Council Building on Commerce Street. These will be the first Council-owned buildings to transition to solar energy, marking a significant milestone in Council’s sustainability journey.
“This is a really exciting step for our organisation,” says Lou Hunt, Climate Change and Resilience Manager.
Council introduces three strikes system to tackle bin contamination
Whakatāne District Council is introducing a three strikes system to help reduce contamination in kerbside recycling and greenwaste bins.
Severe weather effects - 4/5 June
The Whakatāne District experienced widespread effects to a period of intense rain and strong winds.
Power down: Drop off your old batteries on 14 June
If you’ve got a collection of old household batteries lying around, now’s your chance to drop them off safely and for free.
Whakatāne District Council is hosting a ‘Battery Take Back’ event on Saturday, 14 June from 10am to 12pm at the Whakatāne Resource Recovery Centre. The event is open to all and is a simple way to dispose of used batteries responsibly.
Radio 1XX will be on hand with spot prizes, and Council staff will be available to answer questions about battery disposal and other recycling options.
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