Keep up to date with current and upcoming road closures, roadworks, road reserve works, and emergency road status information in the Whakatāne District.
Our main office will be closed Monday, 27 October 2025 in observance of Labour Day. Most Council services will either have reduced opening hours or be closed entirely. Refuse collection will take place as normal. See the full list of services' opening hours »
News
COVID-19 Response - Whakatāne District road closure update
Local police are urging people to follow instructions to stay home to ensure the lockdown period achieves its goal. In partnership with Whakatāne District Council and local iwi, several public roads have been closed as traffic volumes and people converging continue to increase.
This Easter - Stay home and save lives
Our District is a destination for many, so we're fortunate to be here. Enjoy your local area. We're a District that likes to swim, boat, hunt and mountain bike - but we need to avoid these activities for a short period - keep it simple. Please stick to your neighbourhood. Don't drive anywhere unless it's for essential supplies - and only one person should be going.
Plan change decisions supported for Awatarariki fanhead in Matatā
Independent commissioners have released their decision supporting two proposed plan changes aimed at avoiding loss of life on the Awatarariki fanhead in Matatā from a future debris flow event.
Do your part to prevent street flooding
As autumn descends, Whakatāne residents are urged to rake up leaves on their properties, and clear leaves and debris from nearby stormwater grates to avoid possible damage from surface flooding.
Iwi and Council successfully attract funding for major Whakatāne Regeneration projects
Minister Shane Jones announced today that a contribution of more than $36 million will be made towards three significant projects with wide-reaching benefits for the Whakatāne District.
West End Road car parking and layout improvements
Whakatāne District Council is making a number of changes to car parking along West End Road to improve the safety and usability of the area.
Whakatāne District Mayor acknowledges support for Eastern Bay
Whakatāne District Mayor Judy Turner is joining with her Eastern Bay colleagues in Kawerau and Ōpōtiki to congratulate them on the significant funding investments announced last week by Regional Economic Development Minister Shane Jones.
Don’t treat us like rubbish!
The Whakatāne District Council is reminding people of the six things that can be recycled in yellow-lid bins ahead of an audit of the town's recycling practices.
Whakatāne District communities celebrate Parks Week
Whakatāne District residents and visitors are in for a treat with the multitude of events planned during the upcoming Parks Week 2020.
Tangible results for climate change initiatives in Whakatāne District
Whakatāne District Council is forging ahead after a set of seven Climate Change Principles were adopted last year following a community engagement programme.
District Plan changes proposed
Whakatāne District Council is proposing making at least 20 separate changes to its Operative District Plan. The changes will incorporate assessment criteria for some activities in the District Plan where they are currently missing.
Local tourism industry works to mitigate economic impact following Whakaari eruption.
Mitigating the ongoing economic impact for retailers and supporting Whakatāne's local tourism sector is at the forefront of Whakatāne District tourism activities.
Winners of 2020 Molly Morpeth Canaday Award - 3D announced
Sorawit Songsataya has been named as the recipient of the 2020 Molly Morpeth Canaday Trust Major Award of $10,000. Wellington artist Songsataya’s work Morning Dew was a clear winner from the field of 55 other finalists.
Dob in the dumpers
Dealing with fly tippers and people who don’t clean up their dog’s poop is a filthy and frustrating problem, according to Whakatāne District Council regulatory staff who are often left to tidy up the mess.
Sewage overflow triggers temporary health warning (Lifted)
A sewage overflow in the vicinity of Seaview Road has caused contamination of the Wairere Stream, which flows into the Whakatāne River at Quay Street.
Community encouraged to support Oxfam Trailwalker in volunteer roles
Oxfam Trailwalker is calling for volunteers to assist in a number of roles during the 50 or 100 kilometre walking challenge taking place next month for the final time in Whakatāne.
A number of volunteer roles are available, from road marshals, to trail clearing and finish line support. Oxfam Trailwalker Volunteer Coordinator Olga Darkadaki says volunteering offers a rewarding way to get involved.
Conserve water now to avoid hose and sprinkler bans later
Water restriction status signs are being erected at key locations in Whakatāne and Ōhope to highlight the need to conserve water until the current period of dry weather ends.
2020 Molly Morpeth Canaday Award - 3D opens
One of New Zealand's longest running and most vibrant national contemporary art awards will open to the public at Te Kōputu a te whanga a Toi, Sunday 16 February 2020.
Waimana Domain upgrade a team effort
The Waimana Domain has been given a significant upgrade thanks to the efforts of a team of agencies, trusts and individuals. And further on-site enhancements are planned.
Parks, playgrounds, reserves and camping spots get summer makeover
Whakatāne District Council contractors and staff have been busy making the most of the settled weather to plan for an upgrade many of the District’s best places to exercise, relax and play.
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