LDR

Local Democracy Reporting

Final days to have your say on Auckland City's Annual Plan 2026/2027

South Auckland voices risk being left out as consultation closes on Auckland Council’s spending plan, shaping rates, services and local funding.

Taelegalolo'u Mary AfemataThu, 26 Mar

Local Democracy Reporting

Fuel support welcomed, but falls short for many South Auckland aiga

Local leaders and advocates warn the government’s $50 fuel support does not reflect the reality for families already making tough trade-offs.

Taelegalolo'u Mary AfemataThu, 26 Mar

Local Democracy Reporting

Pacific leaders question Auckland Council tatau changes over cultural impact and evidence

Council says tighter tattooing rules are needed to protect public health, but Sāmoan tufuga and Pacific leaders are challenging the evidence, consultation process, and potential costs for cultural practice.

Taelegalolo'u Mary AfemataWed, 25 Mar

Local Democracy Reporting •

Niue

'Our culture is from God': Families keep Polyfest alive behind the scenes for decades

As funding debates grow, Pacific families say ASB Polyfest still runs on generations of unpaid work, care, and culture that most people never see.

Taelegalolo'u Mary AfemataSat, 21 Mar

Local Democracy Reporting

Who should pay for Polyfest? Growth puts pressure on funding

As Auckland’s biggest Māori and Pacific youth festival grows, councillors warn more support could mean less for other community events.

Taelegalolo'u Mary AfemataFri, 20 Mar

Local Democracy Reporting

Vi Hausia fought to overturn an election result. Now, he's eyeing a seat on the board

Local Democracy Reporting is profiling the five Pasifika candidates standing in the Papatoetoe local board race. The fourth profile is Vi Hausia.

Taelegalolo'u Mary AfemataThu, 19 Mar

Local Democracy Reporting

Polyfest: A Pacific powerhouse still pushing for secure funding for its future

ASB Polyfest brings together thousands of Pacific students each year, with organisers highlighting the scale of the event and the growing pressure to sustain it.

Taelegalolo'u Mary AfemataTue, 17 Mar