A new trophy will be contested annually between the Steel and Pulse in tribute to legendary netball coach Robyn Broughton.The teams will play for the Robyn Broughton Legacy Trophy for the first time when they meet in Invercargill on 1 July, honouring a woman who coached both teams during a decorated domestic career.Former Silver Ferns shooter Donna Wilkins said Broughton, who died last year at the age of 80, deserved such an acknowledgement.Wilkins played under Broughton at both teams."Having this game in Robbie's honour is a nice touch to celebrate everything she did in our province for netball - from coaching the school kids to the elite players," she said."And it is extremely fitting to have this match against the Pulse, where Robbie finished her coaching career."Truthfully, she would probably hate the fuss, but deep down she would be humbled."It is always important to remember those who have gone before us - especially those who had such a massive impact on our sport, like Robbie did."It is a great way to remember her, not only for us as a netball community but for her family as well."Donna Wilkins played under Broughton in both the Pulse and the Steel. Photo: Dianne MansonBroughton's success as a domestic coach was unrivalled, guiding Steel's predecessor the Southern Sting to 10 national finals and claiming seven championships.Wilkins had fond memories of representing both franchises during her sporting career."The years of the Southern Sting were unbelievable. Not only [for] the netball, but the community vibe and support during those years can never be forgotten. Finals every year and seven titles, all with Robbie at the helm coaching us," she said."Being able to finish my netball career in Wellington for the Pulse under Robbie was an honour. And I will always be grateful to the Pulse franchise for enabling me to do that."I had some pretty amazing teammates over those years and lots of great memories."

Invercargill mayor Nobby Clark is refusing to step down from making public appearances following a Code of Conduct investigation.But the embattled mayor has admitted he returned to work too soon after open heart surgery and would now take a month off to refresh and look more positively on his role.An extraordinary meeting was held on Friday to discuss the investigation into allegations he mocked, disrespected and degraded guests at a United Fire Brigades' Association event including labelling volunteer firefighters as second hand citizens.Councillors voted to ask him to delegate his duties to all formal public events for the rest of the council term after receiving advice Clark might suffer from brain fade following his surgery, as well as deciding to formally censure him and ask him to apologise to those impacted.Clark declined to comment to media, instead releasing two statements through the council's media team on Monday afternoon.He refused to step down from making public appearances, saying that removing him from public duties was not a penalty that they could use, it was not binding and based on health concerns he could monitor, and he already shared his work load while preparing to retire at next years' election.He also addressed the complaint, saying he has apologised twice for banter, but his comments about volunteers supported and acknowledged their work.Clark said he did not raise this with the investigator because he believed the public complaint should not have gone through a Code of Conduct process "as to do so, would quieten elected members from saying anything controversial".It was the second Code of Conduct complaint he has faced this year, after councillors Ian Pottinger and Ria Bond filed a complaint after Clark repeatedly and unapologetically using the N-word during an interview.Nobby Clark arrives at an extraordinary council meeting and refuses to resign despite councillors calling for it as a result of conduct complaints and inappropriate behaviour. Photo: RNZ / Tess BruntonA vote to ask him to resign was narrowly defeated at Friday's meeting, with some councillors suggesting he might not be capable of performing as mayor if he was impacted by brain fade - which he said he suffered from in his apology to the association.He confirmed he had experienced some brain fade which was an impact of the surgery and could result in "some minor disjointed presentation" and take two years to clear.But he said he flagged this with councillors and senior council staff."Recent advice from two leading NZ medical professors, states that brain fade can be an impact and tends to dissipate within three months. I don't have any current, ongoing impacts and I feel fine," Clark said."I've also had a medical test to ensure that I have no memory deterioration and that was positive and normal."His second statement arrived less than an hour after the first, saying, upon reflection, he came back to work too soon after surgery."Having spent some time over the weekend considering the impact of the Code of Conduct on me, Karen and our family, and the wider community, I've decided to take a further month off work," Clark said.The council had approved a three month Leave of Absence following his surgery and he returned to the role after two months.Deputy Mayor Tom Campbell will fill his role with support from the committee chairs until Nobby Clark was expected to return late next month.Reproduced with permission

Please see below the areas of the Southland state highway network where you may experience delays this week due to programmed roadworks.  Highways South work with traffic management in place (all with temporary speed limits):SH6 North Road south of Lorneville roundabout, temporary traffic lights for pavement repairsSH6 Winton-Lorneville highway between Ryal Bush and Lochiel, temporary traffic lights for pavement repairsSH96 between Wreys Bush and Ohai, temporary traffic lights for pavement repairsSH99 Orepuki-Riverton highway near Stick Road, temporary traffic lights for drainage work (two locations)SH99 Orepuki-Riverton highway near Ward Road, temporary traffic lights for drainage work Third party work and events with traffic management in place this week (all with temporary speed limits):SH6 North Road, lane drop for footpath renewalsSH6 North Road north of West Plains Road, lane shift for pavement workSH6 Winton-Lorneville highway between Gap Road and Thomsons Crossing road, stop/go for power pole maintenanceSH95 Manapouri-Te Anau highway near Mount York Road, stop/go for tree maintenanceSH96 Winton-Hedgehope highway near Springhills, temporary traffic lights for pavement workUseful links:NZTA Journeys website - https://www.journeys.nzta.govt.nz/journey-planner Freight Impact Register - https://www.nzta.govt.nz/commercial-driving/trucks-and-tow-trucks/potential-restrictions-affecting-freight/ - download and filter the region for ‘Southland’. This will indicate any upcoming work in the next fortnight which have closures, detours or width restrictions for freight.Due to the Matariki public holiday on Friday, work on state highways will end at midday on Thursday 27th (with the exception of emergency works).

One of New Zealand’s greatest conservation successes will be celebrated during Matariki (28-29 Jun) on Rakiura/Stewart Island when Whenua Hou Codfish Island marks its 25th year being predator free.Located just 3 km from the coast of Rakiura/Stewart Island, Codfish Island is perhaps best known as the home of the Department of Conservation’s Kākāpō Recovery programme.Entry to the island is strictly controlled by permit and also includes firm quarantine rules.Whenua Hou Komiti member Shona Sangster said the island’s role in biodiversity progress and saving our taonga species can’t be understated. “Whenua Hou’s status as a refuge for our taonga species has only been possible thanks to the vision and determination of many people who removed invaders from Whenua Hou in a series of eradications up to 1999.”“The 25th anniversary is our chance to recognise Ngāi Tahu’s rangatiratanga of the motu, to celebrate the work of DOC and Aotearoa as a centre for excellence for island eradications and biosecurity, and to highlight the potential for what has been achieved on Whenua Hou being replicated here on Rakiura.”“We know that we nearly lost the kākāpō once, and it was only by securing Whenua Hou that we were able to save the species." "Now, it’s time to turn our attention to making their ancestral home on Rakiura safe for them to return - while saving other precious manu which are on the brink, like the Pukunui - Southern New Zealand Dotterel.”While kākāpō certainly helped to put Whenua Hou ‘on the map’ (who could forget the BBC’s famous “shagged by a parrot” clip featuring Conservation Spokesbird Sirocco), it was the commitment and bravery of kiwi conservationists, volunteers, scientists and advocates which truly made it possible for the island to become the shining example of an island sanctuary it is today, Sangster said. “We want to make sure that we show our appreciation to the unsung heroes who have put the hard mahi into not only making Whenua Hou safe, but keeping it safe for the past 25 years.” The celebrations begin with a dinner on Friday 28 June, featuring guest speakers, while Saturday will see a series of free activities include culture and heritage talks, a biodiversity panel, a kākāpō technology demonstration, and pop-up exhibition. Anyone on Rakiura for the event will also have the chance to make banners with artist-in-residence Janet De Wagt all day on Saturday, visit a pop-up Whenua Hou exhibition at the Rakiura museum, meet Blake the taxidermied Kākāpō, and explore Whenua Hou through Google Earth Voyager mapping.CLICK HERE for tickets to the dinner. CLICK HERE for information about Rakiura travel and accommodation options.

Macdonald and Weston Funeral Home have spread their wings and opened a new premises in Gore.With 100 years of serving Southlanders under the name Macdonald and Weston, such a great legacy that speaks volumes about what the locally, owned and operated business means to the community.Macdonald and Weston Funeral Home’s motto of integrity, compassion and kindness has seen them through over a century of walking alongside families in their time of grief.Macdonald & Weston Gore's premises at 45 Medway Street, Gore.Managing funeral director and owner Sharron Hanley said, “We strive to support people to become more comfortable around funerals. It’s about the celebration of your loved one’s life.”Macdonald and Weston Home offers qualified Funeral Directors, Embalmers and Stonemasons.The Macdonald and Weston team pride themselves with walking beside families, knowing that they have someone on their journey with them from start to finish.Macdonald and Weston Funeral Home is not limited to holding funerals in a chapel - they will travel to wherever families want to hold a celebration of life in whatever form that takes.Macdonald & Weston Gore's family reception area.There is no distance too far, for this dedicated team, to travel and nothing they won’t do for their families. “We’ve organised funerals in people’s homes, on beaches, even in a tavern”.The folk at Macdonald and Weston Funeral Home embrace their community with a family friendly approach and that involves working with families to ensure their loved ones are celebrated without letting costs get in the way.Working closely with Southlanders has enabled the business to keep things local, and they have maintained great relationships, that has contributed to the success and enduring reputation of Macdonald and Weston Funeral Home.We welcome Rob Hall into our Macdonald and Western family team, Rob comes to Macdonald and Weston Gore Funeral Home with a long-standing connection to the local Eastern Southland community, having been born, raised, and worked in the Edendale / Wyndham districts, and for the last 21 years, farming in the Waikaka area.The Macdonald & Weston team, now based in both Invercargill and Gore.Married to Lynne, who is the Knapdale – Waikaka Presbyterian Minister, Rob & Lynne enjoy living & working in the Southland – Otago regions.Involved in a wide range of groups across New Zealand including A&P shows, musical theatre, singing groups and the pipe band movement, Rob also enjoys breeding Angus and Galloway Cattle, Southdown Sheep and Clydesdale Horses, while also being an accomplished Beef, Sheep & Equestrian judge. His strong Christian faith & church involvement enhances his positive and busy lifestyle he leads.  Having a warm, friendly demeanour and good sense of humour, helps Rob bring comfort to families in a very difficult time. With years of experience as a Funeral Director and Embalmer, he finds being involved in the funeral profession a real privilege and honour.This devoted business with a team of qualified, specialists, has earned their history in wider Southland because they are proud southlanders who know that being ‘real’ is the only authentic way to be.They look forward to helping, families celebrate their loved one’s life, in a personal and meaningful way. McDonald & Weston Gore45 Medway St, GoreP: 03 208 1156E: [email protected]: www.mwfunerals.co.nz

Scientists from NIWA and Te Herenga Waka-Victoria University of Wellington, who are studying broadnose sevengill sharks in Fiordland in an effort to better understand the effects of climate change, returned to the southern fiords last month (May).In their week-long stay they attached transmitters to the 11 sharks as well as installing 29 acoustic receivers on the seafloor.The project, funded by the Save Our Seas Foundation, began in May 2023 when scientists deployed baited underwater video cameras in Breaksea Sound.NIWA fisheries scientist Dr Brit Finucci said that sharks, as apex predators, played a crucial role in the ecosystem and could be indicators of the health of an environment."Fiordland National Park is an incredibly unique ecosystem. We know very little about the sharks that live in this area, but we do know that the Fiordland environment is at risk from climate change.""Now is an opportune time to study how sharks may be impacted by a changing environment in the future."The broadnose sevengill is commonly observed in Fiordland, reaching over 2.5m in length, but is globally threatened - with fishing activity reducing shark numbers in some locations.Little is known about the impacts of climate change on their health and population."The sharks that we tagged were calm and relaxed, and it was amazing to see them so close when usually we only get glimpses of them whilst diving.""The tags will transmit data for up to the next 10 years and the receivers we put on the seafloor will collect data every time a shark swims near it," Finucci said.Project lead Dr Alice Rogers, a Senior Lecturer in fisheries science at Victoria University, said it is an exciting project to be working on."The team on the boat were great and it’s one of the most beautiful environments I’ve ever worked in, so I feel privileged to be doing this research.""I also love this species - its ancestors date back to the Jurassic period, so they’re almost like dinosaurs.""It’ll be great to see how resilient they are to the effects of climate change and warming seas," Rogers said.The team will return to Fiordland every six months to gather the data from the receivers.They will monitor the short- and long-term information on their movements to understand the sharks’ behaviour and how this may be changing.While in the area, the scientists also use their time to work on other Southern Fiordland Initiative projects including studying the iconic Fiordland black coral, Antipathella fiordensis, and monitoring environmental conditions and deep-water communities at three long-term monitoring sites.

Invercargill Mayor Nobby Clark's decision to remain in the top job on Friday, despite multiple calls for his resignation, is not the first time he has courted controversy.Clark’s five years at council have been marked by well-documented difficulties and a commitment to doing things his own way.This week, he catapulted into the headlines on the back of a complaint into his behaviour at a private event in March.The mayor's seat sat empty for much of Friday's meeting. Following his departure after a short speech, some elected members backed up councillor Ian Pottinger's early call for the mayor to step aside. Photo: ODT/Supplied.Clark faced allegations that he labelled volunteer firefighters as second class citizens, verbally attacked the MC, and disparaged young people in authority.The council held an extraordinary meeting on Friday to discuss this breach of its code of conduct, with multiple members saying he should step aside.But a seemingly unphased Clark has decided to stay on, giving a short speech at the start of the meeting before removing himself.A bumpy road to mayoraltyClark has often found himself in hot water over his remarks.While still deputy mayor in 2021, Clark sat down with Local Democracy Reporting and detailed his long and varied employment history, which included two dismissals out of senior positions.On both occasions he claimed he challenged the outcome — and won — but at a significant financial cost.“Financially bloody bad news. Because you win but you lose,” he said at the time.His working life had seen him wander down a range of paths, from medical work during a war to corporate management at Child Youth and Family (now Oranga Tamariki), a role with Stopping Violence Southland, and area management at IHC.He claims to have “rocked the boat in many of those caring areas”, which Local Democracy Reporting understands were the source of the employment issues.Later, Clark bought into a cleaning business before becoming a rural delivery driver.Then in 2019, his career took another turn when his underlying interest in local government was realised — he was voted into Invercargill City Council as its highest ranking candidate.He described his first day on the job as “a wolf coming into the sheep pack”.Despite his brash nature, Clark hit the ground running, and ascended.One year into his first term, he was appointed deputy by then-mayor Sir Tim Shadbolt, who in many ways was his antithesis.A complex and polarising figureWhile Shadbolt was protesting the Vietnam War, Clark was on the ground (albeit as an army medic).That move to make Clark deputy was highlighted in an independent report released in November 2020."I cannot help but worry that the mayor’s lack of insight into what is needed has resulted in him appointing the person least likely to enable a collegial path forward,” the 'Thomson Report' read.Clark was described as a “complex character” who was viewed by most councillors as “extremely polarising”.The month after the report was released, Clark had his first brush with the council’s code of conduct when he was found to be in breach for questioning the truthfulness of then-chief executive Clare Hadley at a public meeting.It didn’t take long for the relationship between Clark and Shadbolt to sour.In May 2021, the pair had a widely-publicised falling out with the revelation they were no longer talking.Communication resumed, but Clark later upset Shadbolt by accusing him of “hoarding” personal items in council buildings across the city while claiming he had helped remove 50 boxes of “old stuff” from a schoolhouse.The following year, Clark requested to step aside as deputy because he was struggling to juggle the role alongside his views, which he said sometimes saw him in a minority position at the council.He claimed the decision had nothing to do with his relationship with Shadbolt, and later rescinded it after the mayor encouraged him to stay on.Clark runs for top jobThe twists and turns kept coming when in May 2022, Clark did a U-turn on previous claims of not having mayoral aspirations by announcing his candidacy.Five months later he landed the top role, almost 3000 votes ahead of his nearest rival.But Clark continued to walk a tightrope, drawing criticism in June 2023 for throwing support behind an anti-co-governance tour.October 2023 saw an Invercargill woman come forward upset over comments he’d made about the handling of former councillor and ILT Stadium boss Nigel Skelt.Skelt resigned from his positions following a complaint by a female stadium employee of inappropriate behaviour, and Clark later said the family appreciated the work he had done in dealing with the situation.The mother of the woman involved was shocked, saying the mayor’s comments were “so far from the truth”.Under fire for racial slurIn April 2024, Clark appeared on satirical news show New Zealand Today and repeated the ‘n-word’ - a move he had been criticised for at an Art Foundation event the previous year.His appearance on the show prompted a code of conduct complaint by two councillors, which is still ongoing.Then on Tuesday afternoon, details of the complaint about the mayor’s behaviour at a United Fire Brigades’ Association event in March came to light, sparking an early call from councillor Ian Pottinger for his resignation.The complaint said the female MC targeted by the mayor’s verbal attack had been left wishing the ground would "open up and swallow her".Pottinger's view was shared by several other councillors and two mana whenua representatives, one of whom said Clark had told her she had "black privilege".As Clark continues to flout the rules and do things his own way, does the ongoing criticism, or its fallout, bother him?Perhaps the tattoo on his arm provides some insight into his philosophy — one of being in the present, and not thinking too far ahead.“Tomorrow never comes,” it reads.LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air

Invercargill councillors have voted to formally censure mayor Nobby Clark and ask him to step back from public appearances for the rest of the council term following a code of conduct complaint.A motion to formally ask Clark to resign was narrowly defeated with six councillors voting against the motion and five supporting it during an extraordinary meeting.Deputy mayor Tom Campbell who is chairing the meeting then put forward his own motion that requested the mayor delegates his public appearance to all formal public events for the rest of the council term.The motion also asked for a letter of censure and for the mayor to apologise to the MC of an event who he wrongly implied was having an affair and made personal attacks about, including regarding her appearance and competence.He was also asked to publicly apologise to councillors, council staff and the city's residents.Earlier Clark said he will not resign over unacceptable behaviour that's prompted multiple calls for him to stand aside.He withdrew from the extraordinary meeting that's been called to deal with a code of conduct complaint against him.Councillors agreed Clark breached its code of conduct in a material way.It comes after councillor Ian Pottinger asked for his resignation, saying his behaviour was unacceptable.He and councillor Ria Bond also filed a code of conduct complaint after Clark repeatedly using the N-word.The latest complaint from the United Fire Brigades' Association (UFBA) said Clark mocked, disrespected, degraded and offended its members and other guests during an event.UFBA chief executive William Butzbach said Clark said volunteer firefighters were second-class citizens, made personal attacks on the MC - including her appearance, competence and the fact she lived in Ponsonby - and wrongly implied the UFBA president and MC were having an affair.He apologised in a letter to Butzbach, saying he was suffering from "brain fade" following open heart surgery.Clark was found to be in breach of the council's Code of Conduct following an investigation.More to come...Reproduced with permission

Seven cows on a Southland dairy farm have been euthanised after being found stuck in the mud with insufficient water.Ministry of Primary Industries animal welfare officers recently visited the farm in Riverton, near Invercargill, following a complaint.They found about 2000 cattle surrounded by mud, with insufficient water.Five dairy heifers had to be euthanised by animal welfare inspectors on advice from private veterinarians, two other heifers were euthanised by the farm manager.MPI director of compliance and response Glen Burrell said the farmer had been directed under the Animal Welfare Act to relocate the remaining cattle and was given further direction on how to reduce the impact of mud on cattle.A veterinarian assessment of all cattle was being carried out."We'd remind all farmers that a well-planned winter grazing system supports good animal health and welfare. It ensures animals have sufficient and appropriate feed, access to plenty of clean water, and the ability to move freely to and from their feed and water."While most farmers work hard to do the right thing and have improved their winter grazing practices over recent years, this is an important reminder to plan ahead," Burrell said.MPI's investigation was ongoing and it would consider further action in due course.Reproduced with permission

Notices2025 Enrolments - St Peter's CollegeSituations VacantBakery Assistant - Plaza SuperValueFuneral Director - J Fraser & Sons LtdStihl Shop Winton Full time Mechanic/Cycle TechnicianCasual journalist/writer - Southland AppEventsThe Great Y Carnival & Official Y Stadium Opening - InvercargillWinter Wellness Evening - Lumsden

A city councillor who once endorsed the mayor of Invercargill is now calling for his resignation.This week, Mayor Nobby Clark made headlines after the details of a second code of conduct complaint were made public.The complaint alleged poor behaviour from Clark at a United Fire Brigades’ Association (UFBA) prize giving in March, where he was a guest of honour alongside his partner.Included in the allegations were claims he called volunteer firefighters second class citizens, verbally attacking the MC, and disparaging young people in authority.Clark has since apologised, but maintained some of his behaviour was not as described.Councillor Ian Pottinger believes the mayor should step down in the wake of the information released on Tuesday evening.“My opinion is that you commit the crime, which is bringing disrepute to Invercargill, and really an apology of any sort won’t cut the mustard,” Pottinger said.“The only fix is basically to fall on your sword and resign.”The request marks a dramatic change of direction from Pottinger, who in 2022, put his own mayoral aspirations aside to throw his support behind Clark.Invercargill City Council will hold an extraordinary council meeting on Friday afternoon to discuss one of two code of conduct issues facing the mayor.The five-term councillor said his endorsement was a matter of options available at the time.“At that stage we obviously seemed to be reasonably on the same platter.”Speaking to Local Democracy Reporting, Pottinger also claimed the mayor was undertaking a soon-to-be-announced “cabinet reshuffle” which would see him lose his role as chair of the council’s infrastructure committee as part of a merge.Asked if things were now frosty between the pair, he laughed.“No comment. We’ve got different views on life.”On Thursday, Southland Business Chamber also called for the mayor’s resignation.The chamber said in a media statement that Clark’s actions showed a “troubling trend” that did not align with the community.It highlighted racially and sexually insensitive language from the mayor at an Arts Foundation tour, and again on national television.Chamber chief executive Sheree Carey said Clark stepping down would be “the most responsible course of action”.First term councillor Steve Broad said Clark’s recent behaviour was below the honour and privilege of the role.“As each councillor makes their decision I’d also ask the mayor to ask himself whether he is medically or otherwise fit to carry that honour at the moment.”The mayor’s appearance on satirical news show New Zealand Today saw him repeat a racial slur he had been criticised for using at the arts event, and formed the basis of a separate code of conduct complaint by councillors Pottinger and Ria Bond which is still ongoing.Clark's actions at the UFBA event will be discussed at an extraordinary council meeting on Friday afternoon.He did not wish to comment on the requests for his resignation.LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air

A lack of rental accommodation has been blamed for limiting the growth of a coastal Southland town where holiday homes are king.Oraka Aparima Community Board chair Michael Weusten believes a lack of rental properties is creating issues for Riverton. Photo: Matthew Rosenberg/LDR“There’s only one or two properties ever for rent out here, that’s why it’s such a killer,” Weusten said.“If we’ve got any young people wanting jobs out here, they can’t find anywhere to live.“And it’s like town rental prices, $400 - $450, or dearer if they’re more upmarket houses.”Part of the problem was the high number of holiday homes in the area.Weusten said driving through the town at night during winter proved his point — the lights weren’t always on.According to the most recent data from Stats NZ in 2018, 36 percent of private dwellings in Riverton were unoccupied.But not everyone in the town shared his enthusiasm for boosting the population.“I’ve gone on record on Facebook saying we need more people in Riverton, but there’s a few locals that don’t agree with that, because they like to keep it the way it is for themselves.“And it is idyllic, but at the same token, people like to see the cafes open all the time.”Weusten had previously shared his concerns with Southland District Council at a public meeting, saying young people couldn’t work locally because they couldn’t live locally.Donna Leighton, a property manager at T and T Property Management, said she’d noticed a significant downturn in Riverton rentals over winter.It was much easier to fill places in the summer months, she said, as evidenced by the difficulty she was having with a current property.Of the approximately 360 houses the Invercargill-based company managed, only five were in Riverton.Properties in Invercargill filled quickly because of higher volume and job security, she added.“With Riverton, it’s hard to know what the job prospects are out there.”Harcourts Invercargill manager Wayne Ellis said it was slim pickings in Southland for both rentals and purchasable houses.He believed part of the reason was a rise in demand, with an increase in the number of first home buyers entering the market.“Riverton’s just a small, rural township, so it’s probably heightened the challenge that they’ve got.”Ellis said a quick look on TradeMe revealed less than 100 properties for rent in Invercargill compared to about half a dozen in Riverton.LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air

The Pieoneer has done it again.Now I had thought that a small café in Palmerston north had the best lasagna, smooth and delicate pasta covered in rich, creamy cheese sauce layered between a delightfully flavourful mince meat filling.Yet again I was wrong. Every week The Pieoneer creates a flavour of the week.Now it's been a few weeks since my last visit and this may have to become a weekly lunch spot.If you want to find out what the flavour of the week is, go like and follow The Pioneer on socials to stay up to date. Now lets talk about the temptress of pies, seductive in the way that one pie just might not be enough, in fact it was so good I had two!As always the pie bottom paste was delightful, holding its shape as I devoured this tasty treat with every bite.The top flakey pastry simply divine as the crispy wafers of puff melt between your lips.The pastry is one of the most important parts to a pie, visually stunning in the pie warmer, glistening in the light.At this point I wanted to buy them all.“The ultimate comfort” Olivia says as she tried her first bite.They really are, from the first bite you feel at home surrounded by family and friends fighting to get the last piece from mums pan.The pie filling is everything you could want in a lasagna.I personally liked the hint of tomato overtones tip toeing over the pallet while the herbs and infusions complement and caress your tastebuds!The velvety and smooth texture of the pasta covered in the rich creamy cheese sauce, surrounded by a delicate meat filling.These pies are filled to the brim, they are weighty and you can feel the quality as soon as you pick up the custom stamped paper bags.On the Tommys Tummy Test ‘The Pioneer’ reaches for the top rung yet again with a 10/10. Do you have a pie that’ll make it to the top of the Tommys Tummy Test? 

Environment Southland (ES) announced yesterday (19 Jun) that it was slashing this year's proposed rates increase, from an average 23% increase to 12.6%, and halving its flood protection plans - after a record 330 submissions from ratepayers voiced concern in the face tough economic times.ES councillors also agreed to transition towards a new rating model over the next two years in response to ratepayer feedback.Yesterday's announcement followed the conclusion to 3-days of meetings where councillors confirmed their draft budgets, 2024-2034 Long-term Plan, 2024-2054 Infrastructure Strategy, Revenue and Financing Policy and Rating Review, and the Fees and Charges Schedule.The 2024-2025 budget will now see ES's proposed $2.3m investment in flood protection reduced to $1.17m, by using reserves rather than rates, as well as changing the timing of some of the work.ES chairman Nicol Horrell said planning and delivering long-term flood resilience was a core part of the regional council’s work to help keep communities as safe as possible ahead of time, but how to pay for that was the question.“The reserves are there for a rainy day, and the community is telling us it’s raining,” he said.There was community support for ongoing flood protection in the region, but there were also suggestions around how much and how fast work should happen, Horrell said.“Affordability issues were front of mind for councillors during deliberations and we have found savings and efficiencies across the organisation, while ensuring the Council’s statutory obligations continue to be met.”The rates adjustment, from an average 23% increase to 12.6%, is expected to save a $450,000 property $34 per annum or 67c a week.The plan will be formally adopted by ES councillors next month.Key decisions made by Environment Southland include:The funding of the flood protection operating expenditure with $2.34m of lease area reserves to reduce the impact on rates over four years, as consulted on with Catchment Liaison Committees.There will be a two-year transition to a Capital Value rating system and there will be further consultation during 2024-2025 on whether there is a local rate or regional rate to fund river management programmes.The use of $1.38m over four years from biosecurity and land sustainability surpluses to fund their ongoing work programmes and offset rates.The flood protection capital works programme from 2027-2028 onwards is indicative, and will only progress subject to detailed planning being undertaken, government funding being available, and further consultation with the community.The Southland District Council is also conducting public consultations on their Long-term Plan this month (Jun).

Forest and Bird is horrified the government is suggesting it cannot afford to save all of New Zealand's native species.On Tuesday, Conservation Minister Tama Potaka told the Parliament's Environment Committee it could cost hundreds-of-billions of dollars to stop all species here becoming extinct."If we say, hand on heart, we're going to save every single species and get it out of a space where it's endangered or at risk that job is going to take an absolutely, probably superhuman effort, that'll cost, I don't know, I wouldn't want to imagine the cost, but that is literally hundreds of billions, maybe trillions of dollars, and I don't think we're in that space."I think we're in a much more practical space to say what are the species, what are the areas, what are the ecosystems that we're going to focus on, focus our attention on and get to that."He believed the view from the environmental sector that every single species must be saved was "very aspirational and ambitious objective"."It's one that we may not be able to deliver on," he said."So we have to be very careful before we say every single species is going to be saved. We have to be very mindful that that comes at a cost which up until this point in time no one has figured out."Asked whether that meant he was agreeable to species extinction, Potaka said he was not, but for politicians to promise to save every single species without having a proper costing was "very myopic and shortsighted".He did not have such a costing and did not think anyone in the past six years had been able to provide one."There is a cost with maintaining species and ensuring that they don't become extinct. And I don't think anyone in the history of the Department of Conservation has costed that in a [meaningful], defensible and credible way, and if they have, please tell me."Forest and Bird chief executive Nicola Toki told Morning Report Potaka's comments made it sound like he was picking and choosing what to save."I was actually horrified by the minister's comments. He's basically picking winners, right?Forest and Bird chief executive Nicola Toki. Photo: Supplied"He's essentially saying, well, you know, I have an underwhelming ambition to not save them all, 'cause it's really expensive and so, you know, we'll pick some things that we might like to save. He's forgotten his job."The comments came after Dame Jane Goodall's Thursday visit to Parliament with a number of dignitaries, where she highlighted New Zealand's role in saving the black robin from the brink of extinction."To have a conservation minister come out and say it's all a bit hard and (expensive) is just appalling, and he needs to step up," Toki said.The Department of Conservation's (DOC) report to the United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity, released in 2019 and covering the period of 2014-2018, stated one quarter of the nearly 4000 species currently classified as threatened or at risk had only been assessed once and there was no way to know whether their conservation status had changed.Planning tool to help inform decision-making, minister saysOne of the areas Toki believed could widely benefit conservation efforts if boosted was sustained pest control."We only have sustained pest control on the public conservation land across New Zealand on a fraction of the estate, it's around 7 percent overall, right?"If you have been in Wellington recently and you look at the work that's going on to reduce predators in Wellington, the benefits to multiple species is huge. Some species don't actually take that much money to look after."Department of Conservation director-general Penny Nelson told the Environment Committee they had developed a biodiversity planning tool which explores the species and representative ecosystems to make it clear what was being invested on those and the expected returns.Department of Conservation director-general Penny Nelson. Photo: Supplied / Lance Lawson"And for each of our regions, we've got priorities and we're standing up portfolios to meet those. So internally, we've put some more effective processes in place to help us prioritise and then other thing, I think is critical, is we're currently working on the next implementation plan for the biodiversity strategy and that's where we can leverage opportunities with others."So for example, with some of the threats we've got to our biodiversity like ungulates and predators, we're really lining investment we've got with local government, business, iwi partners et cetera, to really focus on the things that will have the biggest impact for biodiversity."Potaka said this tool was key because it was not relying on the "loudest voice in the department, or the loudest voice in the community" to inform decision-making on biodiversity.Toki said it was particularly important to invest in conservation efforts as the country dealt with the impacts of climate change, and considering the economic returns of preserving nature and our ecosystems."The Department of Conservation, which looks after a third of our country and guards the economic asset that is our tourism industry, not to mention 70 percent of our businesses rely on our natural resources, right now it's funded on less than the budget of the Christchurch City Council, and that is a disgrace."I think governments make choices about what they spend their money on and every government does that. But what this government is missing is the fact that our national identity is based on our natural environment..."If the government can't understand that this is who we are, then they're gonna get a bit of a rude awakening as more and more people call it out."DOC's funding overall was due to drop from $880 million this year 2023/2024 to $728m in 2026/27.Reproduced with permission

Invercargill Mayor Nobby Clark's actions at a private event left an MC so upset she wished the ground would “open up and swallow her”, an investigation report claims.On March 16, Clark attended a United Fire Brigades’ Association (UFBA) prize giving dinner as a guest of honour, alongside his partner.But the mayor’s presence as a VIP soured, according to UFBA chief executive William Butzbach's letter of complaint to the council.Clark has since apologised, saying he was suffering from “brain fade” following open heart surgery. He also maintained some of his behaviour was not as described.Butzbach’s letter — dated 28 March — was made public on Tuesday afternoon, and forms the basis of a second code of conduct complaint against Clark.In it, Butzbach wrote he was informed by several reliable sources that Clark had “articulated some disturbing and offensive views” at the event.Some of the comments were made during a speech on stage and included a description of volunteer firefighters as second-class citizens and personal attacks on the MC, the complaint alleges.In relation to the latter, the complaint claims Clark attacked the MC's appearance, competence as a communications professional, and made an untrue allegation she was having an affair with the association’s president.Butzbach also alleged the mayor disparaged young people in positions of authority.“All in attendance were horrified and appalled by the mayor’s hateful and disrespectful rhetoric,” Butzbach wrote in the complaint.“Many of our members and guests left the room in disgust at this behaviour from the mayor.“This has proven traumatic for my staff whereby we are providing professional support services to them.”The investigation report further detailed the impact of the episode on the MC, saying she found Clark’s comments “deeply humiliating” and had been reduced to tears.Days later, she was left anxious thinking about hosting another event, the report said.The UFBA president — who was present at the event — said he leaned close to Clark following his speech and remonstrated with him. He claimed Clark did not reply and left the room with his partner soon after.All interviewees agreed the mayor did not speak from notes and did not congratulate the competition winners.Clark’s partner provided an alternative view of events, saying although the mayor had caused offence, he had not intended to make anyone uncomfortable.She said the mayor’s sense of humour was “unique”, and was aggrieved by the criticism he’d drawn at the event.Meanwhile, Clark said he was approached by a volunteer as he left the venue and told he was “on the mark” with his comments, while being asked to give the team a wave — which he did.Although Clark acknowledged in the report some of his comments were “inappropriate” and showed immediate willingness to apologise, he maintained his overall conduct was not as described.Earlier, Clark also indicated he would not assist with the investigation into his actions.A letter from Wellington lawyer Dentons Kensington Swan to Invercargill City Council dated May 12 said the mayor had raised the question of scope for the council’s code of conduct as a reason for not cooperating with an investigation.As a result of the investigation, Clark was found to be in breach of the council’s code of conduct, with the matter to be considered by the council at an extraordinary meeting on Friday.Clark declined to make any comment ahead of that date.A second code of conduct brought against the mayor in April is still being investigated.It relates to his appearance on satirical news show New Zealand Today, which saw him repeat a racial slur he had previously drawn criticism for using.LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air

Do you remember the Happiness in your first try of a cheeseburger as a child?I didn’t - until lunchtime today.Olivia had called in earlier to make sure we could sample this delectable pastry-encased fusion of everything heavenly (and i'm so greatfull that she did).Just one bite was enough to transport me back to the happiest moments of my childhood, reminiscent of that first visit to the golden arches.The scent of The Pieoneer's American Cheeseburger Pie is purely delightful.Each breath captures the essence of its rich, meaty filling, enhanced by the tang of American mustard and ketchup drizzled over the top, all beneath a layer of perfectly melted cheese that stretches enticingly as you pull the pie away.The sight alone brought a tear to my eye as the flavors combined to evoke cherished memories of youth.This pie is the ultimate happy meal for adults.As always, The Pieoneer’s bottom paste holds firm with every bite, allowing you the convenience of eating with one hand while holding a diet coke in the other.The flaky top pastry is perfectly folded, creating a separation between layers that offers an airy, buttery texture, complemented by a sesame seed marker.If you have the chance to head down to The Pieoneer and try this pie of the week. It will not disappoint!ReviewerTom Tutahione

Album Release Showcase – Kayla Mahon – Right On The Money.RiversdaleReview by Olivia MathiesonA sparkling night of talent with Kayla sharing the stage with friends and family, impressive vocals from all of those that showcased their appreciation for Kayla via performing together.Kayla Mahon with a copy of her new album 'Right On The Money'. Photo: Southland AppWalking into the hall from the cold winter night as a gentle mist fills the air, we were greeted with a warmth that really does come from being with close friends and family.The dim lit hall was rather cosey and as the venue filled up with a sold-out crowd coming to be entertained from all over Southland and Otago it was starting to feel like ‘Home On The Vinyl’.The stage was that of a country dream dance where the backdrop of scrim covered in fairy lights lit up the stage like a star-studded night.The stage in fact was well dressed, over and above what would seem to be the norm with an array of guitars like wings ready to whisk you away to a night of magic and warm embraces.The whole atmosphere of the hall was alight with excitement and love for Kayla that you could hear it bouncing back off Kayla and back into the crowd at the Riversdale Community Centre.Presentation of the hall was perfect with tables to gather round for a toe tap and plenty room to dance while retaining that hometown hall feel, big plus supper provided by Kayla’s supportive family.The night started with a warm welcome from Chitty (Hokonui 94.8fm), absolutely fantastic to see local radio personalities supporting local artists.Throughout the night she kept us entertained in her own unique way and quite possibly the one meant for this particular album release sharing childhood stories of herself and Kayla.I was not expecting to be blown away by the talent that was the opening acts, in true Kayla style we were introduced to a wide variety of music and performers, with so many youngsters from Kaylas nieces, daughter and cousins we were set to be entertained.Georgia (Kayla's daughter) will be one to watch over the years especially after one of the biggest performances of the night with her rendition of ‘Show Me’.Keep an eye and ear out for an album soon!Another highlight for me from the youngest performer of the show being only 3 years old.Charlotte Coughlan performing Twinkle Twinkle Little Star with her wee ukulele was just amazing and a bit humbling as well.Harmonicist Brendon Fairbairn. Photo: Southland AppMy toes were definitely tapping as Brendon Fairbairn took the stage with his harmonica, I’ve never heard a harmonica do the things that he made it do before!Melia was a standout with a presence on stage that some can only dream of having and backing it up with fantastic vocals, guitar and dance moves.All of the supporting performers shined and complimented Kayla’s passion.All that being said, the opening acts for the album release of ‘Right On The Money’ was, well, right on the money!Kayla Mahon, her support band Triple Shot and Sound Engineer Tom Moana were ’Right on the Money’ the entire night, sounding incredible not just because of their phenomenal music talents but due to them all working cohesively as a solid unit of entertainment.Keeping the timing just right was Jacob Hewton on the skins and I must say he is up there with some of the best for the facials, the grooves and the personality, it can't have been easy to keep the volume of those drums down with some of the little lungs powering out their best vocals.As always, keeping that solid rhythm section in check, showing us the funk on stage as he dances along with every track was Chris Chilton and his unmistakable bass tones.Lastly on the guitar Simon Thompson.What a perfect match for Kayla’s unique sound and vibe.Simon’s skill set embraces and enriches every moment.Before I continue to the main event, Kayla Mahon and Simon did a gorgeous acoustic set that even though the venue was getting pretty warm already, they filled our hearts once again with a few extra covers and originals that ware shared with some amazing memories from a recent tour together solidifying them as a dynamic duo, make sure to hear them perform ‘Wish For Rain’ in the future, this powerhouse duo reaches for the stars in perfect harmony, complementing each other from vocals to guitar arrangements and banter. What a performance from Kayla, one thing I really appreciated is the way Kayla presented each new song with a unique experience of how that song came to be, for example, ‘Man That Doesn’t Like Country’ a tale of the man she married, and its all in the title.This show was a great representation of the album which I was fortunate enough to get a sneak peek of.‘Angels biding time’ comes with gentle and bittersweet memories and I a lot of way this track resonated with me, offering a tight embrace and remembrance of those who have passed in our lives.Bombshell Bobby a dynamic ear worm that doesn’t let go, even a day later the chorus sings through. Each song in the new album offering a new perspective into the lyrical and musical brilliance of Kayla Mahon.Finishing the night with the album title track was a treat, and as I said a few times it was ‘Right On The Money’.What Kayla has done with this album has been nothing short of brilliant.The release show captured everything you could have wanted from the album.Proof that small town country has what it takes to make it big, reach new heights and perform with the best and that Kayla Mahon is a rising star in country music.The show was full of laughs, musical brilliance and excitement.You can find the album out soon.For those who missed the event, keep an eye out for "Right On The Money" on streaming platforms to experience the magic of Kayla Mahon’s music for yourself.

Tom Tutahione from Bluff (originally from Motueka) is on a mission - to find the perfect pie!Tom's interest in baking was first sparked after watching his mother baking and preparing his and his siblings school lunches."I came from a rather large family, so there was always a lot of home baking going on to feed everyone," Tom confesses.Tom TutahioneHis interest continued to grow before eventually turning into what Tom now admits was a passion.So it was no surprise that at age 14, the young Tom left school to pursue a career as a pastry chef.Tom has since worked in kitchens across the industry including supermarkets, rolling pin bakeries and patisseries.And along the way he has also won industry awards for his cakes, fine pastries, patisseries and of course pies.After several career changes Tom eventually found himself in Southland studying audio engineering at SIT.These days Tom (aka Tom Moana or Papa T) can be found behind the sound desk of some of Southland's top rock bands or as an on-air host at Radio Southland.But his passion for pies and pastries has never waned - which has led to the occasional local pie review.The Southland App is delighted to publish Tom's pie reviews as what we have affectionally titled " Tommy's Tummy Test".