Flood-hit farmers in the Bay of Plenty region will have a further opportunity to apply for a grant to help with clean up and recovery, say Social Development Minister Anne Tolley and Minister for Primary Industries Nathan Guy.

The Whakatāne Aquatic and Fitness Centre heating system will be undergoing an upgrade from Monday, 21 August to Sunday, 27 August, and the public are advised that there will be some interruptions to services during this time.

Dog owners are being reminded that they have until 5 pm on Monday, 31 July 2017 to register their dogs at the discounted charge. 

Applications are being called for the Whakatāne District Annual Grants Scheme, which provides financial assistance to community-based, non-profit organisations providing a service to the general public in the Whakatāne District.

Affordable community facilities and services with a “unique local edge” will be a key focus for the Whakatāne District Council’s newly-appointed Community Services General Manager, Mike Naude.

Your Library wants to know: what's your favourite book? What do you want to see more of? Answer a short survey and enter a draw to win $50 worth of vouchers.

The redevelopment of the Whakatāne Museum and Research Centre has received a $120,000 funding boost from the Lion Foundation.

Community feedback is to be sought on a draft policy which could allow the freeholding of some Whakatāne District Council commercial and industrial leasehold land in the Whakatāne town centre to be considered, where there are compelling circumstances.

The sad story of a whale found in Norway with 30 plastic bags in its stomach has helped motivate Whakatāne Intermediate School students to find out more about reducing plastic bag use.