Public feedback on whether the Hawke’s Bay Regional Council should adopt Maori Wards at the next Local Body Elections closes today.
In February, changes to the law removed the need for a binding referendum on Maori Wards if 5 percent of voters sign a petition, as well as the ability for councils to initiate a binding poll.
The law change prompted the Regional Council to vote unanimously to undertake public consultation on the issue.
Submissions can be made on the Regional Council website before the close of business today.
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Two people have been charged with possession of methamphetamine for supply after a vehicle crashed near Mt Bruce on Tuesday.
Police said in statement that a speeding vehicle heading north to Eketahuna failed to stop on Tuesday afternoon.
No pursuit was initiated, but the vehicle was found crashed in a shallow culvert some minutes later.
Police located cash and methamphetamine worth up to $450,000 nearby.
A 21-year old man and a 22-year old woman have been charged in relation to the incident.
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The Hawke’s Bay District Health Board says the region’s health sector remains focused on providing the best possible healthcare and support following yesterday’s changes to the health system announced by the Government.
All of the country’s DHB’s, including Hawke’s Bay and MidCentral, will be disbanded in favour of a single, national entity.
The Hawke’s Bay District Health Board said while the announcement signals change, people are asked to continue to attend appointments and seek health treatment when needed.
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There was another small earthquake centered near Waipukurau yesterday.
Measuring 3.3, the quake was felt just before 5pm, and was centered 10km east of Waipukurau.