On the Waipa Radar – here is the news in secret

12 September 2025

Waipa District Council has provided The News with On the Radar editions numbers 13, 14, and 15

See: Council response

 

 

 

22 August 2025

After we had to request them under the Local Government Official Information and Meetings Act (LGOIMA), Waipa District Council has provided us with copies of its publication On the Radar from January to July. It is the council’s fortnightly hub for what it says is essential information, updates and reminders about upcoming projects and programmes.

On the Radar replaced the information only reports which used to appear in council agendas from which publications like Good Local Media were able to source news stories. Council resolved to remove them at its meeting on January 29, 2025 and at the same time voted to move its meetings from Tuesdays to Wednesdays, after The News’ deadline.

See: Candidate calls for council transparency

The council’s review showed the bulk of the information was retrospective, operational and/or had already been made public via media releases and social media.

We have requested On the Radar issues 13, 14 and 15.

Read: The News election coverage and candidate profiles

What do you think? Email us

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

* There is a reference to “Wendy Embling of Simpson Grierson”. This is incorrect and should read “Wendy Embling of Tompkins Wake”.

 

 

 

 

 

More Recent News

Time called on Ian’s watch

Ian Hughes’ legacy to Cambridge earned high praise at a farewell marking his retirement after 15 years with the Cambridge Safer Community Charitable Trust, most of those spent as chairman. The Trust, which operates the…

Three visions for Waipā

Experience or fresh approaches? Tried-and-true or new blood? Waipā’s mayoral candidates appear to agree that the right balance is crucial. Susan O’Regan, Clare St Pierre and Mike Pettit were asked about their primary goals should…

From drought to a deluge

There are mixed reviews from farmers across the greater Waikato region, following the transition from a drought to high rain fall. Kaipaki farmer Zane Kite said the drought was devastating. “We took a financial hit….

Voters leave it late

Waipā District Council is going begging for votes for this Saturday’s local body election, despite a hotly contested mayoral race. Incumbent Susan O’Regan is facing challenges from councillors Mike Pettit and Clare St Pierre. Voter turnout…