New Zealand
Taupō's Big Bang New Year's Eve fireworks cancelled after lake ban
The 2025 display cost about $53,000, including $40,000 for fireworks.
Latest from Taupo
Stories and analysis from The Northern Express Herald.
Sand Safaris liquidated as linked Ruapehu firm enters administration
Companies Office records show the linked firms entering insolvency processes
Taupō mayor says council prepared to apply rates cap sooner
Govt says councils must cap rates at 4%, not including water infrastructure, from 2029.
Third fire in three days hits Taupō region
Three fire engines attended a shed fire in Nukuhau, north of Taupō.
Roads reopen after Taupō vegetation fire threatened a building
Witnesses described 'extreme high winds' driving the blaze.
Killer searched 'how long jail for murder' before stabbing ex 13 times
Lance Dickinson bombarded his childhood sweetheart with messages before knife attack.
Trout centre needs revamp, funds and volunteers
Manager Clint Green says broken displays and fewer trips threaten its future.
Mercury to spend $506m on New Zealand's biggest wind farm
Mercury’s profit rose to $321m as it invests in renewable power.
Man carjacks work ute by dragging employee from vehicle
The man's first car was spiked by police, but he wasn't ready to hand himself in.
Mick On Monday: Well Written answers first of many spring questions
Well Written looked ready for her comeback with a swift trial at Taupō on Sunday.
Marsh to unleash stable’s big guns before fillies do battle at Taupō
Well Written is set to trial today before a new $100,000 race takes centre stage.
NZ Herald Travel Readers' Choice Awards 2026: All your winners revealed
From Queenstown to the Maldives: the places Herald readers love most.
Morning power shortage warning as temps plunge below zero, frosts in 'winterless north'
Energy Minister Simeon Brown says electricity supply is tight this morning.
South Waikato backs Western unitary authority in 9-2 vote
If approved, South Waikato would merge with Waikato and Waipā districts.
Couple win $1 million on bonus ticket – can now get ute with cup holders
They checked the bonus Lotto ticket about 10 times before believing it had won.
‘Possible early warning signal’: Volcanic activity rises beneath Mt Ruapehu
Volcanic Alert Level 1 remains in place, with a green aviation code.
'Beautiful': More suspected meteor sightings for second night in row
Skygazers in Auckland and further south saw flashes of light streaking across the sky.
'Let's be radical': Taupō says no to amalgamation
One councillor said the stance was not enough and suggested further protest action.
Ngāti Tūrangitukua 'deeply disappointed' at Govt position on Mana Whakahono
Uptake of Mana Whakahono in the Taupō region has been slow.
Farming wellbeing groups join forces to expand nationwide reach
'The stars have aligned, and we are ready to get more coverage across New Zealand.'
Supercars double header drives $21.4m visitor boost
About 3000 international fans created 34,000 visitor nights.
'Champion for the district': Former Taupō Mayor dies suddenly, aged 63
He served on Taupō District Council for 24 years, from 2001-2025.
Taupō council staff recommend saying no to forced amalgamations
Taupō council staff urge their elected members to push back against the Government.
Kaimanawa and Kaweka sika named Herd of Special Interest
Sika deer were introduced to Poronui Station in 1905.
Teen with rare condition finally set for home after nine months in hospital
Melissa Humphrey says her 18-year-old son's new home represents a 'fresh start'.
'Essential work' drives Taupō rates increase
All but two councillors voted in support of rates increases.
Stripped bare: Male exotic dancers search for luggage lost during NZ tour
The troupe lost 13 suitcases during their drive from Tauranga to New Plymouth.
What’s next as Taupō weighs future under Govt’s council merger ultimatum
A preferred option will be chosen when councillors meet on July 21.
Numbers for $12m Powerball prize drawn – are you a lucky winner?
Tonight's lucky numbers have been drawn.
Brother’s final wish sends Royd Tolkien on journey across New Zealand
Royd Tolkien ticks off his late brother’s bucket list in a moving new documentary.