Local Democracy Reporting • Aotearoa New Zealand • Sāmoa • KiribatiCultural pride shines as new council embraces diversity and optimism in Tāmaki MakaurauAuckland Mayor Wayne Brown and his councillors say they are committed to community-focused initiatives, while highlighting the importance of representation and partnership with mana whenua.Mary AfemataSat, 01 Nov
Local Democracy ReportingPasifika councillors share their ambitions for Tāmaki MakaurauAs a new term begins, local politicians are calling to modernise local elections and restore public trust after record-low voter turnout.Mary AfemataFri, 31 Oct
Education • Aotearoa New ZealandWhānau Day 2025 aims to put Pacific, Māori youth on the tech mapAmazon Web Services’ Dreamhouse and TipuTech are uniting for a one-day event that will connect Māori and Pacific families with technology.Aui'a Vaimaila Leatinu'uThu, 30 Oct
Local Democracy ReportingAuckland Museum reopens but transport issues remain for someAfter months of safety work, the city’s cultural landmark has reopened, though South Auckland leaders say access still a challenge.Mary AfemataThu, 30 Oct
Local Democracy Reporting'Moana' bores on for Māngere's $64m wastewater upgradeA major Māngere East wastewater upgrade is underway, adding tunnels and pump stations to strengthen the network and prevent overflows.Mary AfemataWed, 29 Oct
Language & Culture • Niue • Aotearoa New ZealandNiue Language Week: A historic celebration of ‘Stories of Niue’ from parents to childrenWith more than 300 performers, the Tokiofa Arts Academy’s "Stories of Niue" brings together Niuean families across generations, celebrating language and identity.Aui'a Vaimaila Leatinu'uFri, 24 Oct
ArtsAnne Filimoehala steps up to lead Ōtara’s budding musiciansThe Tongan violinist and educator is the new music director of Sistema Aotearoa, continuing the programme’s mission to make music accessible to all.Khalia StrongThu, 23 Oct
Local Democracy ReportingIncreased vote count strengthens Pacific representation in Tāmaki MakaurauPreliminary results indicate a strong presence of Pacific leadership across Auckland and highlight how late votes can influence the city’s direction for the next three years.Mary AfemataMon, 13 Oct
Local Democracy ReportingPasifika leaders and newcomers compete in Auckland electionsIn Tāmaki Makaurau, both experienced and emerging candidates have successfully secured key positions on local boards and community trusts.Mary AfemataSat, 11 Oct
Local Democracy Reporting‘It doesn’t feel like election day’: South Aucklanders cast final votes amid low turnoutVoting has ended in local elections, with South Aucklanders among the last to cast special votes. Many say the process felt unexciting, despite their desire to have their voices heard.Mary AfemataSat, 11 Oct
