New Plymouth.

New Plymouth Surf Club Installs Rainwater System with Council Climate Funding

The East End Surf Life Saving Club has installed a new rainwater storage system funded by NPDC's Community Climate Action Fund to wash down rescue gear and reduce mains water usage.

Taranaki Alliance Secures $3 Million Government Grant to Support Engineering Sector Pivot

A $3 million Regional Infrastructure Fund grant has been awarded to the Taranaki Alliance to help local engineering and manufacturing firms transition away from the oil and gas sector.

Police Appeal for Witnesses Following Assault in New Plymouth

Police are seeking public assistance and witnesses following an assault on Elliot Street in New Plymouth on Sunday 30 August.

Photos: Father’s Day walk along Te Henui Walkway

A Father’s Day walk followed the scenic Te Henui Walkway from Te Henui Chapel to Awanui Cemetery and back.

Photos: Queen Street Cenotaph pedestrian space complete

The new pedestrian space around the Queen Street Cenotaph is complete, with seating, planting and safety improvements in place.

WITT Construction Students Build Three-Bedroom Home for Taranaki Property Market

A cohort of 22 construction students at the Western Institute of Technology at Taranaki have built a three-bedroom home now listed for sale.

Onaero Bay Holiday Park Reopens Under New Management for Whitebait Season

Onaero Bay Holiday Park has reopened under a new five-year lease with Penny, just in time for the start of the 2026 whitebaiting season.

New Plymouth District Council and Wai Hononga seek feedback on engagement policies

New Plymouth District Council and Wai Hononga Water Services are calling for public feedback on draft policies that determine how the community is consulted on major decisions.

New Specialist Pharmacist Role Appointed at Taranaki Cancer Centre

Senior oncology clinical pharmacist Diana Harkin has stepped into a new permanent role at the Taranaki Cancer Centre to streamline complex medication plans and support frontline staff.

Taranaki flight nurse Rachel Shearer celebrates 1000th patient transfer milestone

Taranaki Base Hospital nurse Rachel Shearer has overcome her fear of flying to complete her 1000th patient transfer flight, delivering critical care across the North Island.

Kelvin Wright appointed as new Chief Executive of New Plymouth District Council

Venture Taranaki Chief Executive Kelvin Wright has been appointed as the new Chief Executive of the New Plymouth District Council, starting his role in October 2026.

Photos: Reef Alive at Puke Ariki

Reef Alive at Puke Ariki offers an interactive look at the biodiversity and marine research in Taranaki’s watery backyard.

Photos: Devon Street reopens near the Clock Tower

Devon Street near the Clock Tower has reopened to traffic as the West End Crossing project nears completion.

New Plymouth District Council retains STV voting system and funds water billing prep

New Plymouth District Council has voted to retain the STV voting system, approved $660,000 for volumetric water billing preparation, and updated beach horse-riding restrictions.

Toi Foundation votes to sell TSB Bank to Heartland Group for $620 million

Toi Foundation trustees have voted to proceed with the $620 million sale of TSB Bank to Heartland Group, despite legal challenges and a rival bid from Kiwibank.

High Court dismisses bid to halt TSB sale to Heartland Group

The High Court has dismissed an interim injunction seeking to halt the proposed $620 million sale of New Plymouth-based TSB Bank to Heartland Group Holdings.

NPDC seeks public feedback on allowing dogs back into New Plymouth CBD

The New Plymouth District Council is consulting the public on a proposed amendment to the Dog Control Bylaw that would allow dogs on leads within selected areas of the city centre.

North Taranaki Deerstalkers donate 100kg of wild venison to local families in need

The North Taranaki branch of the New Zealand Deerstalkers Association has teamed up with landowners to donate over 100kg of wild venison to local families struggling with food costs.

Photos: Taranaki Careers Expo 2026

The 2026 Taranaki Careers Expo brought more than 40 career and training exhibitors to TSB Stadium.

Man charged after firearms and drugs seized during Stratford traffic stop

A 37-year-old man faces multiple charges after Taranaki Police seized a 3D-printed firearm, a shotgun, ammunition, and drugs during a routine traffic stop in Stratford.

Surfer rescued from rough seas at New Plymouth's Fitzroy Beach

A surfer has been safely rescued from massive swells off Fitzroy Beach thanks to a vigilant bystander and swift action by local surf lifeguards.

Feedback sought on controversial Devon Street West cycle separators in New Plymouth

New Plymouth District Council has launched a survey seeking final public feedback on the trialled Devon Street West cycle separators before a decision in October.

Police arrest fleeing drivers and impound vehicles in major Taranaki road safety operation

A major Taranaki road policing operation over the weekend resulted in dozens of driving infringements, five impounded vehicles, and the arrest of two fleeing drivers.

Taranaki Careers Expo 2026 to Showcase Diverse Industries at TSB Stadium

The Taranaki Careers Expo returns to New Plymouth's TSB Stadium on August 17 and 18, offering high school students and job seekers face-to-face interactions with over 40 exhibitors.

Million Steps Challenge launched to support Taranaki Base Hospital neonatal unit

The Taranaki Health Foundation has launched its second annual Million Steps Challenge to raise funds for comfort enhancements at the Methanex Neonatal Unit.

Rock the Bowl festival returns to New Plymouth with Carl Cox and Fat Freddy's Drop

The Rock the Bowl music festival will return to New Plymouth's Bowl of Brooklands on December 29, featuring a lineup headlined by Carl Cox and Fat Freddy's Drop.

Steph Julian Named Puke Ariki's First Writer in Residence

New Plymouth author Steph Julian has been announced as Puke Ariki’s first-ever writer in residence, coinciding with Aotearoa New Zealand Children’s Book Week.

Taranaki Base Hospital super clinics halve specialist wait times for over 2,000 patients

Weekend super clinics at Taranaki Base Hospital have halved wait times for orthopaedic and ENT patients, clearing a backlog of more than 2,000 first specialist assessments.

On The House completes major infrastructure upgrade at Bell Block hub

Taranaki food rescue charity On The House has expanded its capacity with a new electric refrigerated truck and a massive walk-in freezer.

TSB Festival of Lights Wins National Award After Drawing 162,500 Visitors

New Plymouth's TSB Festival of Lights has won the top national event award, generating $23.1 million in economic impact and attracting over 45,000 out-of-region visitors.

Massive Underground Water Leak Discovered at New Plymouth District Council Civic Centre

A silent underground water leak outside the New Plymouth District Council Civic Centre was losing 5,000 litres of water an hour before blowing the site's water meter.

Taranaki Hooker Bradley Slater Receives Urgent All Blacks Call-Up for South Africa Tour

Taranaki rugby standout Bradley Slater has been drafted into the All Blacks squad to replace the injured George Bell for the tour of South Africa.

Two Arrested After Sleep Assault on Tumai Street; Four Others Detained in Hamilton

Police have arrested two people locally and detained four others in Hamilton following a serious assault on a sleeping occupant at a Tumai Street property.

Photos: Framing begins for Tūparikino Active Hub in New Plymouth

Construction has reached the framing stage for the Tūparikino Active Hub, a $50 million six-court indoor sports stadium in New Plymouth scheduled to open by mid-2028.

Local Legends Honoured at New Plymouth District Council Youth and Citizens' Awards

One youth and ten citizens have been recognised for their outstanding community contributions at the annual New Plymouth District Council awards.

Brooklands Zoo Highlights Native Owl Protection for International Owl Awareness Day

New Plymouth's Brooklands Zoo is hosting special Keeper Talks to share tips on how locals can protect native ruru from hazards like pest species and sticky parapara tree seeds.

South Taranaki and Stratford Councils Back Two-Council Model for Reform

South Taranaki and Stratford district councils have voted to support a two-council model for local government reform, rejecting a single region-wide authority.

Generous $20,000 Donation Unlocks Historic Taranaki Gazettes Online

A $20,000 donation from local residents has enabled the digitisation of 178 issues of the Taranaki Gazette, now searchable online through Puke Ariki.

Omata School Removes iPads for Junior Students in Hands-On Learning Trial

Omata School has paused iPad use for Years 1 to 4 students, extending a trial of traditional pen-and-paper learning to the end of the year following positive initial results.

NPDC to Progress 'Pathfinder' Proposal on Future of Taranaki Local Government

New Plymouth District Council has agreed to draft a 'Pathfinder' proposal on local government reform to submit to the Government by August 9.

New Plymouth Woman Avoids Prison After Coward Punch Attack

A New Plymouth woman has been sentenced to six months of community detention after knocking a young mother unconscious in a coward punch assault.

NPDC to decide on fast-track local government reform timeline

New Plymouth District Council will hold an extraordinary meeting to choose its strategic direction and timeline for the Taranaki Future Local Government reform programme.

Former Brooklands Zoo favourite Fernando the capybara euthanised

Fernando the capybara, a former crowd favourite at New Plymouth's Brooklands Zoo, has been euthanised at Wellington Zoo following a rapid decline in his health.

Inglewood's historic St Andrew's Church secures $100k heritage grant

Inglewood's historic St Andrew's Church is set to undergo a $4.2 million restoration and earthquake-strengthening project, aided by a $100,000 grant from NPDC.

Police Warn Tourists Over Dangerous Photo Stops on Kent Road

New Plymouth Police are warning tourists and photographers to stay off Kent Road after multiple near misses involving people stopping to take photos of Mount Taranaki.

New Plymouth District Council Seeks Public Input on 10-Year Plan

The New Plymouth District Council is calling on residents to share their priorities and help shape future investment as planning begins for the 2027-2037 10-year Plan.

Historical Time Capsule Discovered During Metro Plaza Demolition in New Plymouth

Demolition workers at Metro Plaza have uncovered a historic time capsule containing an old newspaper, a list of names, and a Devon Hotel menu.

Taranaki Base Hospital's New $450m East Wing Welcomes First Patients

The new East Wing building, Te Rau Mātāpuna o Taranaki, has opened to patients at Taranaki Base Hospital, supported by $450 million in government funding and $6 million in local donations.

Councillor Murray Chong Monitors Devon Street West Cycleway Traffic Ahead of September Vote

New Plymouth District councillor Murray Chong is filming traffic on Devon Street West to gather independent data before a crucial council vote on the future of the cycleway separators.

Work Begins on $300,000 Safety Trial Around New Plymouth Cenotaph

Construction has started on a 12-month trial to transform the western side of the New Plymouth Cenotaph into a pedestrian-friendly zone and convert Queen Street into a one-way road.

Councils face funding ultimatum over road cone rules as government mandates risk-based approach

New Plymouth District Council has secured government praise and reduced traffic management costs after early adoption of a new risk-based approach to road cones.

The Kiwi Butcher Shop Secures Five Medals at NZ Bacon and Ham Awards

New Plymouth's The Kiwi Butcher Shop has added five new medals to its record collection at the national NZ Bacon and Ham Awards.

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon to host public meeting in New Plymouth

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon will host a public meeting at the Plymouth International Hotel in New Plymouth this Saturday to discuss key issues affecting New Zealanders.

New Plymouth's Tasman Medical Secures Major Health New Zealand Supply Contract

New Plymouth manufacturer Tasman Medical has secured a contract with Health New Zealand to supply clinical trolleys and equipment solutions across the Taranaki and Waitematā regions.

Government Commits $8.6 Million to Complete Ngāmotu Marae Construction

The Government has announced an $8.6 million grant from the Regional Infrastructure Fund to complete the construction of Ngāmotu Marae in New Plymouth.

Submissions Close Tuesday on Proposed $620 Million TSB and Heartland Bank Merger

Taranaki residents have until 5pm on Tuesday 30 June to submit feedback on the proposed $620 million merger between TSB and Heartland Bank before trustees vote.

TSB Bank Reports $63.3 Million Net Profit Before Tax

TSB Bank has reported a net profit before tax of $63.3 million for the year ended 31 March 2026, representing a 10% increase on the previous year.

Anthony Wilson Appointed Chairperson of Wai Hononga Water Services Board

New Plymouth District Council has appointed infrastructure veteran Anthony Wilson as the new chairperson of the Wai Hononga Water Services Limited board.

Photos: Crews praised for storm cleanup efforts across Taranaki

Workers from infrastructure, council, and emergency services have been praised for their efforts in cleaning up damage caused by strong winds across Taranaki.

Severe Gales Cause Road Closures and Service Disruptions Across New Plymouth District

An Orange Strong Wind Warning in Taranaki has prompted road closures, tree falls, and changes to kerbside rubbish collections across the New Plymouth district.

Severe Gale-Force Winds Batter Taranaki, Forcing Road Closures and Cutting Power

Severe gale-force winds of up to 130 km/h have battered Taranaki, causing widespread road closures, power outages, and the closure of several council facilities.

New Acute Services Building Officially Opens at Taranaki Base Hospital

Associate Health Minister Matt Doocey has officially opened Te Rau Mātāpuna o Taranaki, the new six-storey acute services building at Taranaki Base Hospital.

Trains Taranaki to Present Petition to Parliament for Reinstating Passenger Rail

Trains Taranaki will present a petition to Parliament calling for the reinstatement of regular passenger rail services connecting New Plymouth, Whanganui, Palmerston North, and Wellington.

New Plymouth District Council Adopts 2026/27 Annual Plan with 4.9% Rates Rise

New Plymouth District Council has adopted its 2026/27 Annual Plan, delivering a 4.9 percent rates increase, which is significantly lower than originally forecasted.

Councillors Back Mayor Max to Advocate on Proposed TSB and Heartland Bank Merger

New Plymouth District Councillors have voted to support Mayor Max Brough in advocating to the Toi Foundation regarding the proposed $620 million TSB and Heartland Bank merger.

Immersive Light Experience 'Darklight' Coming to New Plymouth's TSB Showplace

The acclaimed immersive light and sound experience Darklight: The Hidden World is set to transform New Plymouth's TSB Showplace this September and October.

TSB Bank Opens Modernised Central New Plymouth Branch on Courtenay Street

TSB Bank has welcomed its first customers to a newly modernised central New Plymouth branch, consolidating its CBD operations into a single location on Courtenay Street.

New Plymouth Cenotaph Area to Undergo One-Way Roading and Pedestrian Safety Trial

A 12-month trial starting in July will make Queen Street one-way near the New Plymouth Cenotaph to create a safer pedestrian-only space.

Former New Plymouth Boys' High School Teacher's Registration Cancelled Over Conduct and Fake Credentials

Former physics teacher Mike Li has had his teaching registration cancelled following investigations into pointing a slug gun at students and fabricating his military career.

Pukekura Park Playground Slide Damaged by Fire as Vandalism Costs Soar in New Plymouth

New Plymouth District Council faces escalating vandalism costs, including an $8,000 repair bill for a Pukekura Park slide damaged in a recent fire.

New Plymouth Mayor Calls Public Meeting Over Proposed TSB and Heartland Bank Merger

Mayor Max Brough is hosting a public meeting this Thursday to gather community feedback on the proposed merger between TSB and Heartland Bank.

Graffiti Surge and Vandalism Put Pressure on New Plymouth District Council Budget

A spike in graffiti incidents and vandalism to public facilities, including a playground slide fire, is putting significant pressure on the New Plymouth District Council's clean-up budget.

Vandalism and Fire Damage Reported at Pukekura Park Playground and Pavilion

The big slide at Pukekura Park playground has been closed due to fire damage, while the nearby Bellringer Pavilion toilets were vandalised overnight.

NPDC Considers Changing New Plymouth CBD Dog Ban to Leashed Control Area

The New Plymouth District Council is drafting an amendment to its Dog Control Bylaw that could see well-behaved, leashed dogs allowed back into the city centre.

Destination Kāwaroa Wins National Award for Excellence in Placemaking

The Destination Kāwaroa project has won the Beca Award for Excellence in Placemaking at the LGFA Taituarā Local Government Excellence Awards.

Mayor Max Brough Demands Pause on Proposed $620m TSB and Heartland Bank Merger

New Plymouth Mayor Max Brough has formally requested the Toi Foundation pause the conditional $620 million merger of TSB and Heartland Bank to allow for community consultation.

Taranaki Tarmac Rally Set to Return to the Region This Month

The Taranaki Tarmac Rally returns on 27 June as the third round of the 2026 Hawkeswood Mining North Island Rally Series, bringing top competitors to the region.

Hempcrete Identified as Key Commercial Opportunity for Taranaki Hemp Industry

A new development plan by Venture Taranaki highlights hempcrete construction as the most immediate commercial opportunity for the region's emerging hemp fibre sector.

Mayor Calls for Pause on Proposed TSB and Heartland Bank Merger

New Plymouth Mayor Max Brough has formally requested the Toi Foundation to halt the proposed $620 million merger between TSB and Heartland Bank to allow for community consultation.

National Volunteer Week: New Plymouth Volunteer Shares Journey of Finding Purpose and Connection

New Plymouth District Council volunteer Iuliana Secuiu shares how helping at local events and founding the Migrant Women Meet group gave her a sense of purpose after moving from Romania.

Noise Testing Proposed for Potential New Plymouth Skid Pad Site on Clemow Road

Mayor Max Brough has confirmed that acoustic testing is the first step to determine if a former industrial site off Clemow Road is suitable for a purpose-built skid pad to address illegal burnouts.

Mayor Max Brough Confirms Ongoing Discussions with Kmart Over Potential New Plymouth Store

Mayor Max Brough has revealed that Kmart is reviewing local retail data and remains interested in expanding to New Plymouth, though finding a suitable central location remains a challenge.

NPDC Launches Survey to Shape the Future of Local Government in Taranaki

The New Plymouth District Council has opened its 'Shaping Taranaki's Future' survey, inviting residents to share their views on upcoming local government reforms and structure.

Taranaki Leaders Unite to Oppose Government's Disability Support Services Bill

The Taranaki Mayoral Forum has sent an urgent letter to the Government opposing key aspects of the proposed Disability Support Services Bill over concerns of cost-shifting to ratepayers.

Petition to Stop TSB Sale Reaches 2,000 Signatures as Public Meetings Announced

A petition launched by New Plymouth Councillor Gordon Brown opposing the sale of TSB has gained over 2,000 signatures, ahead of upcoming public consultation meetings in New Plymouth and Hawera.

Labour Unveils 2026 Party List: Glen Bennett Well-Placed for Parliamentary Return

The Labour Party has released its list for the 2026 election, placing former New Plymouth MP Glen Bennett at number 25, virtually guaranteeing his return to Parliament.

Government to Sign Contract for $1 Billion LNG Import Terminal at Port Taranaki

Energy Minister Simeon Brown has confirmed that two shortlisted developers for a new $1 billion LNG import terminal at Port Taranaki are progressing to the final selection stage.

TSB Renews Naming Rights for New Plymouth's Iconic Festival of Lights

The TSB Festival of Lights has secured its future with TSB renewing its naming rights sponsorship through to the 2028-2029 season, alongside new funding partners.

The Opportunity Party Hits 6% in Latest Poll as New Plymouth Campaign Heats Up

The Opportunity Party has reached six percent support in the latest Roy Morgan poll, positioning candidate Sarah Lucas for a strong campaign in the New Plymouth electorate.

Taranaki advocates and councillor push back against government disability support bill

Disability advocates and a New Plymouth district councillor are calling on local mayors to oppose a controversial government bill overhauling disability support.

Public Consultation Opens on Proposed $620 Million TSB and Heartland Bank Merger

Taranaki residents have four weeks to submit feedback on a proposed $620 million merger between TSB and Heartland Bank, with public consultation now open.

Taranaki's Last World War II Veteran Ron Bingham Dies Aged 104

Ronald John 'Ron' Bingham, Taranaki's last surviving World War II veteran, has passed away peacefully at the age of 104.

Government to Restrict Council Committee Voting Rights to Elected Members Only

The government has announced a law change that will remove voting rights from unelected iwi and community representatives on local council committees.

Toi Foundation Proposes $620m Sale of TSB to Heartland Group

The Toi Foundation has announced a proposal to sell TSB to Heartland Group for $620 million, launching a community consultation period for Taranaki residents.

Government Cuts Funding for New Plymouth-Based Energy Centre Ara Ake

The Government will discontinue funding for Ara Ake, New Zealand's national energy innovation centre based in New Plymouth, as part of Budget 2026 reprioritisation.

New Plymouth Council Approves Funding for YMCA Homeless Storage Facility

New Plymouth district councillors have approved $65,000 in funding for a YMCA-managed daytime storage facility for the city's homeless, despite debate over the service's purpose.

Photos: Pukekura Park marks 150 years since opening

Pukekura Park celebrates its history and growth from a modest 12-hectare block in 1876 to a 52-hectare sanctuary in the centre of New Plymouth.

Taranaki Councils to Vote on Government's Head Start Local Reform Pathway

All four Taranaki local authorities will hold extraordinary meetings to decide whether to join the government's voluntary Head Start pathway for local government reform.

Photos: Luge, mini-putt and Holden museum at Hillsborough

Hillsborough in New Plymouth features Taranaki's own luge, a Mount Panorama themed mini-putt, a Holden museum, a Percy train, and a cafe.

Suzanne Porter Receives Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit Insignia

New Plymouth's Suzanne Porter has officially received her insignia as an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit for her services to the arts and events industry.

The ANZAC Day Classic - New Zealand v Australia

Honey Half Marathon & 6K

Taranaki Multi Ethnic Extravaganza

TSB Festival of Lights

Bianca Lorenne

Specialised in luxury and style, Bianca Lorenne offers exquisite linen, home textiles, and interior products.

Deluxe Diner

A popular local food and beverage business offering great coffee, casual dining, and takeaway options in a retro diner setting.

Egmont Honey

A local business known for producing and packing pure New Zealand honey, sourced from hives around Mount Taranaki. They offer a range of honey products, including Manuka, Kamahi, and Clover varieties.

Govett-Brewster Art Gallery

Striking destination for contemporary art & experimental film in a towering, modern space. A culturally significant institution dedicated to filmmaker and kinetic sculptor Len Lye, as well as contemporary exhibitions.

Juno Gin

A boutique gin distillery in New Plymouth, celebrated for its award-winning, artisan gin made with pure New Zealand mountain water and local botanicals.

Kina NZ Design + Art Space

Located in New Plymouth, this contemporary design store and art gallery features glass art, ceramics, jewellery, sculpture, prints, paintings, and homewares.

Proof & Stock Coffee

A local business that carefully roasts and sells specialty coffee beans, supplying locals and other regional businesses.

Tempt Concept Store

Offering a blend of vintage and country ambiance, Tempt sells a curated collection of homewares, art, fashion, and accessories.