Lizard News is an independent, family-owned community newspaper publisher serving the Western Bay of Plenty district.

Since 2017, we have connected the people, businesses and organisations that make our communities unique. Through trusted local journalism, we provide news, information and stories that matter to the people who live and work here.

Today, we publish two free community newspapers serving two distinct communities of interest. Lizard News covers the western side of the Western Bay of Plenty, from the Wairoa River at Bethlehem through Te Puna, Whakamārama, Matakana Island, Ōmokoroa, Pahoia, Apata, Aongatete, Katikati, Tahāwai, Bowentown, Athenree and Waihī Beach. Since June 2026, we also publish Te Puke Today, serving Te Puke, Maketū, Paengaroa, Pukehina, Pongakawa and the greater rural area.

At a time when local journalism is disappearing from many communities, our commitment remains simple: to report on the issues that shape everyday life. From local government decisions and infrastructure projects to business, housing, schools, community organisations, events and the people making a difference, we focus on the stories that matter locally.

Strong communities are built on connection. By telling local stories, celebrating achievements, highlighting challenges and providing a platform for local voices, we help keep our communities informed, engaged and connected.

Lizard News has a print run of more than 12,000 copies, delivered free to homes and businesses across the Western Bay of Plenty district’s western wards. Te Puke Today has a print run of 7,000 copies distributed throughout the wider east of the district through mailbox delivery and key community pick-up locations.

Together, our publications reach more than 19,000 households and businesses across the coastal Bay of Plenty. Supported entirely by local advertising, they provide businesses with a highly targeted and trusted way to reach local customers through publications with strong community credibility and loyal readership. Our value proposition to advertisers is deep penetration into two separate local markets.

Whether you’re contributing a community story, promoting a local event, supporting a cause or growing your business through advertising, our mission is the same: connecting communities through trusted local news. Community matters most, so cut through the clutter with local news, and get in touch today.