With the weeklong scorcher pushing on, two Bay of Plenty towns were the hottest places in New Zealand on 29 January 2019. 

The Eastern Bay region is to receive a boost with the launch of the ambitious Sun to Surf Half Marathon, set to finish on the iconic Ohope Beach on April 6 next year.

Ohope Beach has once again been named as New Zealand’s most loved beach in the AA’s new 101 Must-Do’s This Summer list, which showcases the country’s hidden gems and local favourites.

Whakatane locals have been outraged at recent findings that the government actively encouraged a Chinese water bottling company to set up in the town.