Scott SimpsonCoromandel MP A good, solid education is crucial to the futures of New Zealand's young people. In our region, we're lucky to have dedicated teachers whose hard work shows their vocation is about far more than reading, writing and arithmetic. We... Read More

Dazz SwitallaFlavour SecretsNo.1 The Strand Chef www.no1thestrand.co.nz Collecting old tins is one of my hobbies. Recently, I uncovered some old Huntly and Palmers biscuit tins at the local op shop. Usually, I open them up to inspect the inside.... Read More

Dazz SwitallaFlavour SecretsNo.1 The Strand Chef www.no1thestrand.co.nz Collecting old tins is one of my hobbies. Recently, I uncovered some old Huntly and Palmers biscuit tins at the local op shop. Usually, I open them up to inspect the inside.... Read More

Local Labourwith Rachel Jones I get seasick. Very seasick. Hence, I prefer fishing for trout over ocean fishing. But I totally understand the passion of those who do fish. That's why I'm making the effort to get my head around a pretty complex... Read More

Independent viewsBy Brendan Horan I wonder where we are going as a nation and what is important to us. I asked this question of some university students last week. I've often wondered if we tend to funnel fresh adults into university with no direction,... Read More

Simon BridgesNational MP simonbridges.co.nz In my last column I wrote about the focus of Budget 2014 is on families with the extension of paid parental leave, investment in vulnerable children, more money for education and free doctor's visits... Read More

Catherine StewartTauranga City Councillor Tauranga City's elected members have begun deliberating on the council's 2014/2015 Annual Plan decisions in the chambers this week. Swimming hours are to remain 'status quo' to reflect community feedback... Read More

Matt CowleyTauranga City Councillor This week we've finalised next year's budget after considering feedback from 785 people and organisations. We started with the CBD. We felt the current plan for the waterfront, plus the request to increase marketing... Read More

Jane NeesBOP Regional Councillorwww.janenees.co.nz Last week, I was fortunate to be able to participate in a forum discussion to celebrate the centenary of the Institute of Professional Engineers of New Zealand. The speaker brief was to discuss... Read More

Ian McLeanGreen SceneSpokesperson for the Green Party It is hard to imagine anybody thinking free visits to the doctor for all children and teenagers is a bad idea. No doubt, some will say we can't afford it. In response, it can be noted doctors... Read More

Sideline SidSports correspondant & historian www.sunlive.co.nz The next few editions of Sideline Sid's sport blog will come from over the ditch, as Sid and Mrs Sid escape the Western Bay winter, to play on Queensland's Sunshine Coast. Confirmation... Read More

Sideline SidSports correspondant & historian www.sunlive.co.nz The next few editions of Sideline Sid's sport blog will come from over the ditch, as Sid and Mrs Sid escape the Western Bay winter, to play on Queensland's Sunshine Coast. Confirmation... Read More