Tussock Country Music Festival is set to return to Eastern Southland this May and the action packed 2026 line up has just been released. Now in its fifth year, the festival has grown again, with more than 80 events taking place across ten days from May 22nd, its biggest calendar yet.Next year’s festival welcomes a wave of new events, iconic names and fresh faces. Kiwi legends The Warratahs join the celebrations as guest artists at the Country Music Honours, with frontman Barry Saunders also performing an intimate house concert. Trad Night Tuesday, a walk-up, join-in Celtic music session, makes its debut alongside an expanded offering for younger audiences including a book reading, a songwriting workshop for teenagers, and a Singalongercise kids concert, all led by musician and author Jeremy Redmore.Adding to the festival’s growing cultural mix, one of New Zealand’s most recognisable comedians, Tom Sainsbury, is bringing his show to Gore. Sainsbury says he has performed all across the South Island and noticed wherever he goes, people from Gore travel far and wide to see him. In 2026, he is returning the favour.One of New Zealand’s most recognisable comedians, Tom Sainsbury, is bringing his show to Gore as par. Photo: Supplied.The expanded programme builds on the success of recent years. In 2025, Tussock Country injected an estimated $2.5million into the Eastern Southland economy, and 2026 is forecast to surpass that with strong patronage interest coming from across New Zealand and Australia.Long standing favourite events also return including the MLT NZ Gold Guitar Awards, the Freeze Ya Bits Off Busking Competition, the Gore Truck Show, the Old Hokonui whiskey and food pairing evening, and The Celtic Unleashed, a major fundraiser for the Hokonui Celtic Pipe Band.Tussock Country encompasses events coordinated by the Gore Country Music Club, the NZ Songwriters Trust, the NZ Gold Guitar Committee, Gore District Council and many independent artists and community groups.After turning all four chairs on The Voice Australia in 2025, Kiwi-now-Queensland-based Jaydin Shingleton is After turning all four chairs on The Voice Australia in 2025, Kiwi-now-Queensland-based Jaydin Shingleton is returning to Gore to perform at Tussock Country - NZ's Country Music Festival. Photo: Michaela Jamesonreturning to Gore to perform at Tussock Country - NZ's Country Music Festival. Photo: Michaela Jameson.“We are incredibly proud of how the festival continues to grow”, says festival chair Jeff Rea. “With more than 80 events, a wider range of genres and experiences, and artists travelling from across New Zealand and Australia, we cannot wait for patrons to take in the full sights and sounds of Tussock Country right here in Gore.”Tickets for all events go on sale at 9am on December 11th, giving patrons time to explore the full festival calendar and plan their visit to Eastern Southland.Full event details are available at www.tussockcountry.nz

A new scholarship fund has been launched to help Southland and Clutha women attend The Shepherdess Muster, coming to Tokanui, Murihiku Southland for the first time on 6–8 March 2026. The Southland & Clutha Scholarship Fund, established by the local Muster committee, aims to raise $15,000 by mid-December to support 15 women from the region to attend the three-day event focused on rest, connection and wellbeing. Local committee member Julie Keast, who lives at Tokanui, has seen firsthand how hard the recent storms have been for farm families across the region. “As we know, women will often bear the brunt of supporting their partners when things on the farm aren’t right. This can often be at the sacrifice of their own plans. When the storms hit this time, the things that are usually second nature – like getting the meal on the table or keeping the household functioning so you can get out and do the jobs on the farm – just become so much harder when you don’t have the basics like electricity or running water,” Julie says. “For women on farm, the clean-up is massive and constant. You can’t hurry it, and it’s work that is dangerous. To get the farms back fully functioning is a long haul — you’re reliant on contractors to remove trees, or builders to make repairs. So the timing of The Muster is probably perfect for women to just reset or refocus,” Julie says. “I am very excited for the opportunity The Muster will provide to connect and build on relationships through great food and entertainment, and to learn together from some very interesting speakers. In committing to attending The Muster, I know that 6–8 March will be my time – setting aside everything else to focus on the opportunities The Muster will bring.” Kristy McGregor, Founder and Director of The Shepherdess Muster, says the local committee’s experiences shaped the creation of the scholarship fund. “Our local committee members were affected by the storms and saw firsthand the impact across farms, families and communities,” Kristy says. “We know women do it tough after events like this. Creating space to come together, connect and recharge can make a real difference — and that’s what The Muster is all about.” Kristy says donations to the fund will provide direct support for women who would otherwise miss out. “Any contribution, big or small, will help a Southland or Clutha woman get to The Muster. It’s a practical way to support the wellbeing of the women who keep our rural communities going.” The Shepherdess Muster runs from 6–8 March 2026 at the Tokanui Rugby Club, Murihiku Southland, offering workshops, kōrero, entertainment and shared meals designed to nurture connection, learning and creativity.

Swings installed at Invercargill parks prior to recent severe weather have survived — for the most part.In October, Invercargill City Council installed 20 new swings on trees around the city, bringing the total count to 26.But that same month, a storm wreaked havoc in Southland, toppling trees and throwing the region into a state of emergency.Council manager parks and recreation Caroline Rain said the wind event damaged one swing at Elizabeth Park which had been temporarily removed.“This swing will be reinstalled nearby when a suitable location is found.“The other 25 swings were not damaged and have been assessed as safe.”Rain said the swings were permanent installations which were regularly audited for safety and damage to trees.The total cost of installing them was just over $5000, or around $200 a swing, she said.“The actual cost of each swing varies, as some are made from recycled materials repurposed from other playgrounds.”A trial for the project began last year with six installations, followed by a further 20 in October 2025.The council said the swings were attached to sturdy tree limbs which were assessed by council arborists to make sure they could support children and adults.Some swings were not accessible at the moment due to parks still being closed following the storm.LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air

ILT New Zealand Criterium Championships – Saturday 17 January 2026 Hosted by Cycling SouthlandCycling Southland is proud to once again host the ILT New Zealand Criterium Championships on Saturday 17 January 2026, where national jerseys will be contested across all categories from Under 15 through to Elite Men and Women. Following the success of this year’s event, organisers have confirmed a brand-new course for 2026, utilising Bainfield Road and Queens Drive. Riders will complete laps of a fast and flowing 2.1km circuit, turning on Queens Drive at the Gimblett Street intersection. With wide, open roads and generous viewing areas, the new layout is designed to produce high-speed, attacking racing throughout the afternoon. The event is expected to attract strong fields, particularly in the Elite Men’s category, with the 69th SBS Bank Tour of Southland set to begin the very next day. Many riders will use the championships as a final hit-out ahead of the Tour, ensuring an even more competitive and exciting spectacle for spectators. Photo: Monica Toretto PhotographyRace Headquarters will be based at the Waikiwi Rugby Club on Bainfield Road, where families can enjoy food trucks, entertainment, and excellent vantage points to view the racing as national titles are decided. Cycling Southland President, Julian Ineson, said the new course and timing created the ideal combination for a premier national event: “We’re thrilled to bring the ILT NZ Criterium Championships back to Southland and to debut an exciting new circuit that offers superb racing and outstanding public viewing. With the SBS Bank Tour of Southland starting the following day, we expect a hugely competitive field and a fantastic weekend of cycling for our community.” Spectators will again enjoy close-up racing action at multiple points around the circuit, with the same course also used on Sunday morning to start the opening stage of the SBS Bank Tour of Southland. Race times and category details for the 2026 ILT NZ Criterium Championships are available in the official schedule.

While the only alone time many 14-year-old boys get is online gaming in their rooms, Mahe Braaksma is about to do 40 days solid through backcountry New Zealand on his bike to raise money for Fiordland Marine SAR.The gutsy Te Anau teen sets off from Cape Reinga this Saturday (13 December) to embark on the 3000km Tour Aotearoa bikepacking adventure to Bluff – a journey he completed, aged 9, with his family in 2021.Mahe’s parents Adrian and Stef, his older sister Jazz and younger brother Charlie, took a year off to enjoy the journey and Mahe says he decided a while ago he really wanted to do it again, but by himself.“When he came up with the idea I thought, ‘Cool, as I can go with him’, but he’s keen to go on his own,” Adrian says.Mahe’s been mowing lawns and doing odd jobs around his community to raise the necessary money for the trip, which he’s using to fundraise for Fiordland Marine SAR, for which his dad volunteers.Mahe has put in the mahi – with a few decent, grunty training runs, including a 130km trip up the backcountry Mount Nicholas Road.Te Anau's Braaksma family took a year off in 2021 to bike from Cape Reinga to Bluff. Photo: Supplied“I got to a ford, and I was up so high I had to turn back,” he says.He also rode from Milford Sound to Te Anau, fundraising for Fiordland Marine SAR and his trip to compete in the South Island Secondary Schools Championships, where he placed third, raising $1500 all up.In spring Mahe placed 10th in the Under 15 XC Race at the National Mountain Biking Championships and he’s a strong competitor for his school, Fiordland College, where he’s just finishing Year 9.He’s out most days training and when he’s not on his bike, it’s sailing, climbing, running or football.Mahe’s got the business side all worked out too – netting sponsorship from almost 10 sponsors, all happy to supply everything from sunscreen and dehydrated meals to fruit bars and peanut butter.“I just emailed them and they all said, ‘Yes’,” Mahe says.Mahe Braaksma represented his school at the 2025 National Mountain Biking Championships, where he placed 10th in the Under 15 XC Race. Photo: SuppliedSome Fiordland businesses have also supported him, their business logos on his T-shirt in return.Tenting along the way, the scariest part isn’t being in the back of beyond in pitch black darkness by himself but more what to do if he injures himself, Mahe says.He’s trained in First Aid and carrying a complete First Aid kit, plus a Garmin inReach satellite device to message for help, if needed.Mum and Dad will know just where he is at all times, unlike the parents of most teenagers: “TrackMe NZ have sponsored him so we will have a real time app so that we can always see where he is,” Adrian says.The journey follows a similar route to the diverse Te Araroa Trail through the country and for Mahe the most fun part of the family ride in 2021 was biking around the beautiful Coromandel beaches.He reckons the most remote section of his journey will likely be Timber Trail around Ohakune and Taumarunui.Mahe’s lawn mowing gig to fund the trip has raised $3000 to $4000 to buy a decent bike and tent and pay for food and supplies.It’s not the remote backcountry and the numerous roads, trails and tracks where Adrian and Stef are most concerned for Mahe’s safety either.“I’m a little bit nervous,” Adrian says.“But I’m totally happy about Mahe being out there by himself as he can look after himself in the backcountry.I’m more concerned about him biking through busy cities like Auckland and Wellington.”Both Adrian and sister Jazz will meet Mahe in Auckland on that leg to bike parts of it with him, and he’s hoping to reach Taumarunui in time to be picked up for a family Christmas break on D’Urville Island in the Marlborough Sounds.He will have earned his Christmas dinner and grandparents and cousins from Motueka and Whanganui will all be eager for Mahe to share his adventures.Then it’s back on the bike headed south in the hope of raising more awareness and much needed funding for training, equipment, travel and flight time for Fiordland Marine SAR with Mahe now joining the ranks of its unsung heroes.“I’ll be giving out little Givealittle cards along the way,” he says.CLICK HERE to donate to Mahe's Fiordland SAR fundraiser.To follow Mahe's progress on Facebook CLICK HERE.Sue Fea is a senior journalist with more than 40-years experience covering police, social and general news in the southern regions.

After several years of disruption and instability across the sector, the Southern Institute of Technology (SIT) is now gearing up for a strong revival.One that signals both an educational comeback and the determination of the wider Southland community.SIT is formally to return to independence, restoring local governance to one of Southland’s most defining and community-built institutions. When SIT was absorbed into Te Pūkenga, Southlanders watched a proud, independent organisation lose visibility inside a centralised system that did not understand its model or its role in the region. For decades SIT had been a cornerstone of Southland identity. Its Zero Fees Scheme transformed thousands of lives, and continues to, it reshaped the region’s economic trajectory and ensured local industries had access to skilled workers when and where they were needed. Under centralisation that connection began to weaken. Decision making slowed. Concerns grew that what made SIT extraordinary was being eroded. By 2024, the fear of losing control of Southland’s own future became real. The region decided that was not an option. When the possibility of losing SIT autonomy emerged, Southlanders rallied with characteristic determination. Local leaders, iwi partners, employers, alumni, families and students mobilised and demanded that SIT remain locally governed and regionally accountable. Their message was unwavering. Local knowledge matters. Regional education drives regional prosperity. Autonomy is essential. Southland won that fight. SIT will again stand on its own, locally led, regionally responsive and empowered to serve the people and industries of Murihiku. Interim Chief Executive, Amanda Whitaker, has been central to preparing SIT for independence and reconnecting the institution with the community. Her message is clear. “The community fought for us, and we will honour that by remaining true to what makes SIT special. Zero Fees stays. SIT belongs to Southlanders and our future will reflect their needs, their aspirations and their lives.” Whitaker stresses that the return to independence is not administrative. It is cultural, regional and deeply personal. Southland’s demographic challenges make SIT’s role more critical than ever, with an ageing workforce, a new generation with evolving needs and intensifying demand across essential industries. “We exist to remove barriers, not create them, we need to work within our community, deliver what is needed and do it in a format that works,” Whitaker says. To mark SIT’s return to autonomy, Whitaker has orchestrated a temporary street name change and has brought together business and civic leaders to create a public celebration in the heart of Invercargill. The event will include a street takeover for graduation 4pm Friday 12 December, Kelvin Street will become Graduation Lane, a showcase of student success and highlights the collective strength that carried SIT through the past four years. Designed as a display of unity, pride and unwavering belief in local education, the celebration will reflect Southland’s commitment to its own future. She notes the remarkable speed at which support arrived. “The Mayor was one of the first to come forward, along with our business leaders and community partners. The response was immediate and generous. There was no hesitation. Southland wants SIT to succeed and that support has been inspiring. SIT will once again be a driver of success for Southland, and I am thrilled to be part of this moment.” As SIT prepares to mark its return to independence, Whitaker says regional support remains unwavering. “Southland stood up for SIT and that support has not faded. Local businesses, community leaders and partners are lining up to stand with us as we step into our new era. In true Southland fashion the response has been immediate, generous and united. We will share more details shortly, but it is clear the region wants to celebrate this moment together.” The celebration will be announced soon, with Whitaker emphasising that it will honour SIT’s independence, its learners and the community that fought to protect it. SIT’s next chapter will be defined by flexibility, regional delivery and deep community connection. For Southland the message is clear. SIT is not simply returning to independence. It is stepping into its role as a regional anchor, an economic driver and a symbol of the strength of the people who fought for it. Southland stood up for SIT. Now SIT stands ready to stand up for Southland.

Road OpenNo Avalanche HazardComments:Tree felling operations near Lake Gunn may cause short delays Tuesday to Thursday this week - 8am to 5pm. SH94 will close from Divide carpark to Lower Hollyford Rd intersection and at Homer Tunnel on Monday 15th - 7pm to 2am. Also a closure for Homer Tunnel only on Tuesday 16th Dec - 7pm to 2am. Temporary opening for waiting traffic at 9pm allowing traffic through both closure points, otherwise no access during closures due to heavy equipment operating. Queries please call: 03 249 7004.Weather forecast for the Homer Tunnel area:Today: Cloudy, rain developing late. Tomorrow: Rain clearing late. Thursday: Rain developing. Friday: Mainly fine. Saturday: Mainly fine.

Special Olympics Southland is gearing up to send its team to the 2025 Special Olympics National Summer Games in Christchurch, with athletes departing from Invercargill Airport on Wednesday, 10 December at 8:35am. The team will return home on Monday, 15 December at 10:15am, and media are warmly invited to attend either the farewell or the welcome home. More than 1,300 athletes from across the country will compete at the Games (10–14 December), representing sports including athletics, swimming, football, golf and more. Special Olympics New Zealand provides year-round sports training and competition opportunities for children and adults with intellectual disabilities - building inclusion, confidence, and lifelong friendships through sport. In the lead-up to the Games, the Southland community celebrated the annual Law Enforcement Torch Run on Sunday, 30 November at ILT Stadium, where athletes, whānau, supporters and NZ Police came together for a fantastic turnout and a high-energy morning of pride and connection. The Southland team is now ready to take the spirit of that event with them as they head to Christchurch to compete on the national stage.

Scheduled upcoming works for the Southland district this week: WATER SHUTDOWNSTimeframes are indicative only. Water supply will be resumed without further notification. We apologise for any inconvenience.Otautau, Monday 8 or Tuesday 9 December.This is to make a repair at 24 Nantwich Street Otautau. Areas affected are all Nantwich Street and 23 – 33 King Street. Please expect interruptions between 9:30am-3:30pm. Otautau, Thursday 11 or Friday 12 December.This is to carry out repairs on the reticulation network. Areas affected are, 53 & 57 Elles Road, all George St, 39 – 49 Macandrew St and all Swale St. Please expect interruptions between 9am-3pm. Te Anau, Wednesday 10 December.This is to make a repair at 51 Piopio Street, Te Anau. Areas affected are 6, 18 and 22 Takitimu Avenue and 51 Piopio Street. Please expect interruptions between 9am-3pm. ROAD CLOSURESNorthern: Felton RoadFelton Road from Reid Macauley Road to Roy Road, will be closed between the hours of 7am Monday 8 December until 6pm Friday 19 December 2025. This is to enable the replacement of two culverts.A detour will not be available, but the road will be reopened as soon as safely possible in the event of an emergency. Residents will have access to properties either side of hard closure and the road will be opened over the weekend of 13 & 14 December under restrictions. Wallace Takitimu: OtautauMain Street from Alderly Street to Chester Street, will be closed between the hours of 4.00pm and 9.30pm on Friday 12 December 2025. This is to enable the running of the Annual Santa Parade.A detour will be available via south Alderley Street, King Street, Chester Street and in reverse for north traffic. Fiordland: Te AnauBligh Street from Sutherland Street to Milford Crescent, Milford Crescent from Bligh Street to Town Centre, Town Centre from Milford Crescent to Mokonui Street, Mokonui Street from Town Centre to McKerrow Street to normal traffic between the hours of 12 noon and 3pm Saturday 13 December 2025.This is for the running of the annual Santa parade.A detour will not be available, but the roads will be reopened as soon as safely possible in the event of an emergency. As the parade moves along Milford Crescent, Bligh Street will reopen. Mokonui Street will remain closed between Town Centre and McKerrow Street until the floats have left the area.  RESEALSThe team at Downer will be finishing works on Hillside Manapouri today, Monday 8 December. The will not be working on the SDC network other than sweeping and marking where needed. STATE HIGHWAYS WORKKey renewal sites in Southland currently underway/beginning next week:- SH94 at The Key – Stage two at the Mararoa School end is underway and will continue until mid-December. Traffic lights in place, 10-15 minute delays.- SH94 Te Anau-Milford highway at Sinclair Road – begins Monday 1st December and will continue until prior to Christmas. Traffic lights in place, delays of 5-10 minutes.- SH96 Nightcaps-Ohai highway at the bend prior to Ohai - begins next week and will continue for 2-3 weeks. Traffic lights in place, delays of 5-10 minutes.Highways South maintenance work:- SH1 Woodlands-Invercargill highway at Longbush South Road, traffic lights for pavement repairs- SH1 Woodlands-Invercargill highway at Mona Bush Road, traffic lights for pavement repairs- SH1 Pioneer highway at Brydone, traffic lights for pavement repairs- SH6 Winton-Lorneville highway south of Thompsons Crossing, stop/go for resurfacing- SH6 Dipton-Winton highway at Hundred Line Road, stop/go for resurfacing- SH6 Lumsden-Dipton highway between Lumsden and Lintley Road, stop/go for resurfacing- SH6 Five Rivers-Lumsden highway just north of SH94 turnoff, stop/go for resurfacing- Roadmarking taking place on SH1 between Invercargill and Gore, SH98 at Mill Road, SH96 at Winton, SH94 at Riversdale and SH93 at Owaka Valley Road under traffic management – delays should be minimal. Third-party work and events with traffic management in place this week:- SH94 Lumsden-Riversdale highway at Two Chain Road, stop/go for powerline work. Useful 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.To get notifications about road closures in your area, download Antenno here:  https://www.southlanddc.govt.nz/home/antenno/

Waters are warming in Murihiku Southland at higher rates than elsewhere, with implications for fisheries and habitats.Details of the issue have been captured in a November report from acting Environment Southland chief executive Rob Phillips, who referenced the recent state of the environment report.Phillips said sea surface temperatures were increasing about 34 percent faster in New Zealand than the global average.Outside of Fiordland, Southland was experiencing some of the fastest warming, with a 0.4 degree average increase over the past decade, he said.“While it may mean that the region can enjoy some warmer swimming temperatures, continued increases will have detrimental effects on a wide range of our coastal ecosystems including valued fisheries and habitats.”Council general manager science Karen Wilson provided further details, saying the ocean acted like a heat sponge, absorbing excess heat from the atmosphere and preventing dramatic rises in air and land temperatures.Warming waters fueled extreme weather events and drove sea level rise, she said."Rising temperatures can also disrupt ocean chemistry and nutrient cycles, altering major currents and threatening marine ecosystems."That could lead to coral bleaching, potential food security issues, and habitat changes for marine mammals, Wilson said.Ocean temperatures fluctuated naturally due to El Niño and La Niña cycles, changes in ocean currents and long-term climate patterns, she said."These natural influences combine with broader climate changes and drive the warming we are observing today."The 0.4 degree increase in average temperature also applied to the east coast of the South Island.LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air

Road OpenNo Avalanche HazardComments:Short delays possible this week with tree felling operations underway - Lake Gunn area.  Weather forecast for the Homer Tunnel area:Today: Becoming fine. Tomorrow: Rain developing late. Wednesday: Rain clearing late. Thursday: Rain developing Friday: Mainly fine.

He’s knocking on 100 but Southland Rugby legend Owen Todd, 99, can still recall some remarkable rugby yarns from his team manager days as if they were yesterday.President of the Southland Rugby Union, manager, and Southland and New Zealand U18 selector during his administration prime in the 1970s and 80s, Owen led the Southland team through some historical victories.Most memorable, that legendary Ranfurly Shield draw with Auckland in 1976.Manager that day, his mini shield still takes pride of place in his room, walls adorned with Southland Rugby memorabilia, at Queenstown’s Arvida Country Club rest home.He's saved the boys from the odd spot of trouble, but his word and his leadership were always respected by the players.Not bad for a mechanical fitter-welder from South Invercargill, who cut his teeth in the trade with family firm J. K. Stevenson Engineers, working there for 44 years, becoming a shareholder through the company’s bonus programme.Owen, fourth from left in the front row, as part of the 1974 Invercargill Blues Rugby Club Centennial Committee. Photo: SuppliedOwen pays tribute to ‘Mr Stevenson’ for ensuring he and wife Ray, who passed away in 2015 after 65 happy years of marriage, got into their first St Andrew Street home soon after marrying in 1950.Ray had been a part of Owen’s life since South School.“I sat up the front with the dummies, and she was the dark-haired brainy girl up the back,” Owen grins.Owen’s dad worked for Wright Stephenson stock firm, transferring to Balfour where Owen continued school.“That’s where I got introduced to rugby, watching it over the fence,” he says.The intrigue of the blacksmith’s shop next door was also responsible for his choice of career later.“I’d watch the chaps making things with metal.”They moved to Gore, Owen working after school at Burrows Nursery, then as a butcher’s boy, taking orders before school on his bicycle then delivering them after school.“Come Saturdays us boys went up behind the dairy factory on the hill, and we’d tip the farmer’s water trough over, and make sleds from the pickets off people’s fences then slide down in the mud,” he grins.A young Owen Todd. Photo: SuppliedA World Boys’ Brigade Jamboree in Wellington was downsized to the ‘Southern Hemisphere’ during World War II due to safety threats when Owen was 12.“We went by train and boat to Wellington. No lights were allowed on the boat at night in case the enemy spotted them. A huge passenger liner was loading soldiers to take them to war. It was scary alright.” They camped for two weeks at Waikanae.The family moved back to Invercargill where Owen played in the South School Rugby Team, also playing for the Southland Primary Schools Team against Otago.“We gave them a thrashing – three of us from our school were in the team.”The headmaster made the senior class give them a standing ovation, then at playtime “the dark-haired brainy girl” (wife Ray) gave him a dig in the back and said, ‘Good on ya!’At Southland Technical College he became head prefect, picking a teacher to dance as was tradition at the school dance.“I picked Miss Morris who said she’d heard a lot about me at home from her younger sister, Ray (wife).”The senior boys had to dig trenches by the basketball courts during the war, stripping their shirts off and whistling at the girls playing basketball.“We had a big fire in the engineering block and us boys had to help dismantle all the machinery, belts and pulleys.Blues Boys - Owen Starring centre front. Photo: Supplied“I got really interested and got a job as apprentice at J.K. Stevenson Ltd Engineers.”Christmas bonuses were offered as shares and coupled with an investment in the Southland Building Society Owen and Ray bought their St Andrew Street home off Mr Stevenson.Their three children arrived – Neville, Sally and Graeme, and while he’d given up playing Owen was soon elected to Invercargill’s Blues Rugby Club Committee – a Life Member for almost 50 years, the club’s oldest.Star of the show at the Blue’s 150th anniversary last year (2024), he was also instrumental in organising Southland’s annual Rugby Life Members Club gatherings, attending his most recent one three years ago.He also suggested that women working tirelessly in rugby club kitchens be honoured with Life Memberships too.Before long fellow Blues members Les George and Len Clode, both on the NZ Rugby Union, had nominated him for the Southland Rugby Union.“I said, ‘Not a dog show!’”But there was, and he then managed a Blues team trip to Australia too.Each time he said, ‘I’ll have a yarn to my wife’.Owen celebrating his beloved Blues Rugby Club. Photo: Supplied“She always said, ‘Go for it!’.""I owe her so much. I couldn’t have done any of it without her fantastic support, and that of my family,” Owen says.He was also a Southland and NZ U18 selector.Each time Ray said, ‘Go for it!’“I’ve been to some wonderful places,” he recalls.Billeted on the West Coast, Owen ended up touring an underground coal mine, presented with a massive box of whitebait to take home.Chairman of Southland Rugby’s Grounds Committee for the 1981 Springbok Tour, Army personnel refused him pre-match entry through the barbed wire, despite being the boss.Owen’s highlight was meeting Errol Tobius, the first coloured member of the Springbok team."Steven Pokere (All Black) introduced me, and Errol told me some of his own team seldom spoke to him off the field, which was really sad."Owen meeting Sir Buck Shelford at the Invercargill Blues Rugby Club 150th anniversary last year (2024). Photo: Supplied"The team manager kept an eye on him and Errol had his own separate manager.”Then there was the Southland trip to Blenheim when Southland Juniors got into a fight with some gang members.A player and the senior team liaison officer – an off-duty cop who went to assist, were both badly injured and hospitalised.“I had three cops in my senior team so I had to let them go help and when the others heard what had happened I couldn’t hold them back despite the hotel manageress’s warning to stay at the hotel.”His players beat the Police there, dealing some Southland vigilante-style justice to the main perpetrator, Owen begging one star player about to be named in the All Black team that night not to join in.“I said,’ You’re doing nothing. You’re just gonna look!’It was all over the 6 o’clock TV news so I rang Ray to reassure her, but I didn’t ring the Southland Rugby Union chairman Jack Smith.Boy, did he give me a clean out,” Owen says.Many happy years were spent at the renovated crib Owen and Ray bought in Queenstown Camping Ground – ‘Toddle Inn’.Photo: SuppliedOne New Year’s Day three Police officers pulled up in a patrol car, offloading boxes into the crib.“Three of our Blues players, cops up here as holiday reinforcements, came to visit.""They’d been confiscating beer from underagers and thought they’d ‘go round and shout for Toddy’,” Owen grins.“People were staring, wondering what was happening at our place. Ray was not amused.”In 1985 they retired to Queenstown, where Owen joined bowls and Ray golf. Owen did fluke a Hole in One in Wanaka once though.Author of Queenstown Bowling Club’s 100-year history book celebrating 1904 – 2004, he’s now delighted to see copies at every table in the new clubhouse restaurant.A former committee member, Owen’s most memorable win was in his 80s when he, Bill Johnston and Dave Weir, playing as the underdogs, cleaned up with an average age of 80 in the Queenstown Bowls Triples Championship final against three local champions.“Geez, that was a late-night home,” he grins.So chuffed, he even had their names and ages engraved on the trophy.Owen, front, with his children, from left, Graeme, Sally and Neville. Photo: SuppliedOwen reckons he’s had “a marvellous life and met some fabulous people”.Always a great encourager of young people, he’s forever grateful to a young English girl from Dover who helped nurse Ray at home in her final weeks.“Louise still writes to me and sent me her wedding photos. She was such a lovely girl.”As for those two newest great grandsons – well, just maybe they’ll grow up to be Stags.Sue Fea is a senior journalist with more than 40-years experience covering police, social and general news in the southern regions.

Whakatane’s Daniel Jones has made history with a record-breaking seventh Fresh Choice Kepler Challenge mountain running title in Te Anau yesterday (Dec 6).The professional ultra runner was a comfortable men’s winner in the 60km loop of the Kepler Track, finishing in 4hr 42min, and in the process striding past the mark he had shared with fellow six-time winners Ruby Muir and Russell Hurring.Auckland’s Frances Redmond, who finished runner-up last year, won the women’s race in 5hr 59min.Jones was met on the Lake Te Anau control gate finish line by partner Michelle and 11-week-old son Hudson to celebrate the special moment.“I saw them at Rainbow Reach (10km to go) and I really wanted to give Huddy a hug but I just burned on through. It’s Huddy’s first time to see a race finish and I was really happy to make it a win,” Jones said.“To get that seventh title means a lot because you come back here year after year and it’s kind of grown into this big family, community thing for me, and now my family and I really hope to continue the tradition.”Christchurch runner Cameron Swales takes out the 27km Luxmore Grunt in 1 hour, fifty-three minutes and thirty seconds. Photo: Nathan BurtonJones was challenged during the first half of the race by Frenchman Quinton Succo (4:58), who is currently on a year-long working holiday in New Zealand.The pair exchanged introductions on the climb up to Luxmore Hut and then battled it out across the upper heights of the track before Jones pulled away over the second half of the race.Defending champion Daniel Balchin (5:06) finished in third place.Competing in her fourth Kepler Challenge, Redmond said the event holds a special place in her heart.“This is my fourth year, so it’s been a few years coming. It’s a renowned race, the course is beautiful and it’s fantastically run, the volunteers are awesome, so it feels pretty epic.”Hannah Wall (6:03) ran strongly throughout the race and led at most of the checkpoints before finishing less than five minutes behind Redmond, with Julia Chamberlain (6:17) in third place.“I’ve been supported over the past year by my friends and family, particularly my partner Hannah,” Redmond said.“She cooks me dinner, doesn’t complain when I go out running for eight hours on our day off. That’s what makes it so amazing, having that family and friends support.”Competing in the companion event, the 27km Luxmore Grunt, New Zealand mountain running representative Penny Mouat defended her title despite being on the comeback from injury.“I’m so stoked. That was the goal. I got a stress fracture a few months ago, got that cleared and then this was my first race back really.”Fellow Christchurch runner Cameron Swales trailed the frontrunners, including three-time winner Jonathan Jackson, by about 1min at the Luxmore Hut turnaround, but took the lead during the technical descent and used his track speed to power home in what was his trail running debut.“I’m coming out of being a road and track running over the past couple of years and I’m excited to give trails a bit of a go.”A capacity field of 450 runners started the Kepler Challenge event, with the field selling out in just over 2min in July. Another sold out field of 250 runners contested the Luxmore Grunt.Results60km Kepler Challenge:Men: Daniel Jones 4:42:38, 1; Quinton Succo 4:58:46, 2; Daniel Balchin 5:06:31, 3.Women: Frances Redmond 5:59:05, 1; Hannah Wall 6:03:58, 2; Julia Chamberlain 6:17:02, 3.27km Luxmore Grunt:Men: Cameron Swales 1:53:30, 1; Michael Sutton 1:54:54, 2; Jonathan Jackson 1:56:28, 3.Women: Penny Mouat 2:29:37, 1; Catherine Atkinson 2:35:38, 2; Hollie Morton 2:36:37, 3.

Fire and Emergency New Zealand crews are in attendance at a large vegetation fire in the Otapiri Gorge, Southland.The fire is around 21 hectares with a 2.3km perimeter. It is around 50 percent contained, but not under control.High winds and the terrain have made firefighting operations difficult. Crews will continue to work as daylight allows and be back tomorrow to work to get the fire fully contained. People should always visit www.checkitsalright.nz to check the conditions before lighting any fire and to remain aware of weather conditions as a change in conditions could see their fire escape.

This week marks 100 years since the memorial commemorating the ultimate sacrifice made by Southlanders serving during World War I was officially unveiled in Invercargill.The Southland Cenotaph, on Gala St, was officially unveiled to the public on Sunday, 6 December, 1925 by then-Governor General of New Zealand, Sir Charles Ferguson.The crowd gathered for the occasion was reported to number more than 6000 people, including nearly 1000 returned soldiers.Photo: Supplied.Invercargill Mayor Tom Campbell said 100 years on, the cenotaph remained a powerful symbol of the respect and gratitude the community felt for those who had lost their lives in the war.“The Southland cenotaph is an enduring reminder that we must continue to honour those who served, and ensure their stories are never forgotten,” he said.“A century later, the cenotaph does more than honour the legacy of those who lost their lives. It challenges us as a community to live in a way that reflects upon and respects the sacrifice made in the past, for our future.”At the end of WWI, the Fallen Soldiers Memorial Committee was formed in Invercargill. The committee aimed to raise funds for a memorial commemorating those Southlanders who served and died overseas.The eventual Southland Cenotaph was designed by Dunedin architectural firm Coombs and White.The memorial was heavily influenced by The Cenotaph on Whitehall in London, designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens and unveiled in 1920 as the United Kingdom’s national memorial to the fallen of Britain and the Empire.Its 10-foot-high statue of a soldier was cut and sculpted by G. Cancare, with the entire memorial itself carved from Bluff granite.As well as the names of Southland soldiers killed in action during WWI, the cenotaph also bears the names of Southland nurses who also lost their lives overseas during the war.The wider community was asked to submit the names and details of those soldiers and nurses who had lost their lives during the war.Photo: Supplied.The programme for the ceremony noted that the memorial was ‘Erected by the People of Southland in Grateful Remembrance of those who, at the call of Duty, left all that was dear unto them, faced danger, endured hardship, and finally laid down their lives for their Country in the Great War, 1914 – 1918’.The unveiling ceremony also included renditions of the hymn Nearer, my God, to Thee, the Last Post and God Save the King, as well as an address from the Invercargill Mayor of the time, Andrew Bain, who served two terms in the role (between 1923 to 1925, and 1925 to 1927).Mayor Campbell said the sizeable crowds who gathered at the cenotaph every year, for occasions including ANZAC Day, showed the community still held a deep level of respect for those who had served in conflicts throughout the world."While the world has changed enormously since 1925, the horror at the human cost of war still resonates deeply. Looking at the cenotaph today, we are not just remembering names carved in granite – we are mourning those whose contribution to our community was cut tragically short.”The word cenotaph is derived from the Greek word kenos and taphos, meaning ‘empty tomb’.

Below is a list of programmed works on Southland state highways next week, and all known work on Southland state highways next week is mapped HERE.* Please note there will be a closure SH1 between Liffey and Palmer St between and 12 noon. Detour for SH1 north and southbound via Liffey, Foyle and Onslow St. Key renewal sites in Southland currently underway/beginning next week:SH1 Bluff highway – Stage two from Clifden to Duck Creek is underway. Traffic lights in place, delays of 5-10 minutes.SH94 at The Key – Stage two at the Mararoa School end is underway and will continue until mid-December. Traffic lights in place, 10-15 minute delays. SH90 Waikaka Valley highway between Waikaka Road and Cunningham Road – earthworks and drainage underway until late December. Traffic lights in place, delays of 5-10 minutes. Construction will begin in new year.SH94 Te Anau-Milford highway at Sinclair Road – begins Monday 1st December and will continue until prior to Christmas. Traffic lights in place, delays of 5-10 minutes.SH96 Nightcaps-Ohai highway at the bend prior to Ohai - begins next week and will continue for 2-3 weeks. Traffic lights in place, delays of 5-10 minutes. Other maintenance and contractor work underway next week is listed below. Highways South maintenance work:SH1 Bluff highway near Kekeno Place, traffic lights for pavement repairsSH1 Bluff highway at Awarua, traffic lights for pavement repairsSH1 Bluff highway between Awarua and Greenhills, traffic lights for pavement repairsSH1 Woodlands-Invercargill highway at Longbush South Road, traffic lights for pavement repairsSH1 Woodlands-Invercargill highway at Mona Bush Road, traffic lights for pavement repairsSH1 Main St Mataura, traffic lights for pavement repairsSH1 Pioneer highway at Brydone, traffic lights for pavement repairsSH1 Pukerau to Charlton, stop/go for watercuttingSH6 Winton-Lorneville highway south of Thompsons Crossing, stop/go for resurfacingSH6 Dipton-Winton highway at Hundred Line Road, stop/go for resurfacingSH6 Lumsden-Dipton highway between Lumsden and Lintley Road, stop/go for resurfacingSH6 Five Rivers-Lumsden highway just north of SH94 turnoff, stop/go for resurfacingSH93 Old Coach Road from Mataura to Clinton, stop/go for watercuttingSH93 Old Coach Road near River Road, traffic lights for pavement repairsSH93 Old Coach Road near Old Manse Road, traffic lights for pavement repairsSH93 Old Coach Road from Clinton to Mataura, stop/go for watercuttingSH94 Waimea highway from Croydon to Mandeville, stop/go for watercuttingRoadmarking taking place on SH1 between Invercargill and Gore, SH98 at Mill Road, SH96 at Winton, SH94 at Riversdale and SH93 at Owaka Valley Road under traffic management – delays should be minimal. **Programmed work may be delayed due to weather/other factors. Other contractor work that we are aware of:SH1 Gore St, Bluff between Liffey and Palmer St, Closure of SH1 between Liffey and Palmer St for event. **Sunday 7th December onlySH94 Lumsden-Riversdale highway at Two Chain Road, stop/go for powerline workUseful links:NZTA Journeys website - https://www.journeys.nzta.govt.nz/journey-plannerFreight 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.

Beginning 1 January 2026, Mr Bharat Guha will step into the position of Chief Executive at SIT, as confirmed by the newly appointed Council.Council Chair, Mr Rex Chapman, said Mr Guha was chosen for his proven leadership, financial expertise and clear vision for SIT’s future. “Bharat brings a wealth of experience in tertiary education and a genuine dedication to our community and to SIT. His leadership will help SIT empower every student to thrive in a world that’s always changing,” Mr Chapman said. “We were pleased by the strong level of interest in the role and very impressed by the calibre of applicants.” Mr Guha, currently the Chief Financial Officer of ILT, said he is honoured to take up the role. “I am humbled to be given this opportunity to lead SIT. Our priority is to ensure the Zero Fees Scheme continues, while delivering programmes that reflect both existing and emerging industries across Southland.” “SIT’s strength comes from its partnerships with iwi, industry and our vibrant community, and I’m committed to continuing to build these connections. We will also focus on expanding international education and embracing innovation and flexibility in programme delivery to position SIT as a leader in vocational education,” said Mr Guha. Mr Guha is no stranger to SIT, having previously served as Deputy Chief Executive and Chief Financial Officer. He was the financial architect of the Zero Fees Scheme and played a pivotal role in developing SIT’s domestic and international markets.

Road OpenNo Avalanche HazardComments:No travel delays are expected over the coming days.Weather forecast for the Homer Tunnel area:Today: Rain clearing in evening Tomorrow: Rain developing Sunday: Rain Monday: Becoming fine Tuesday: Rain possible

Invercargill’s Splash Palace has faced the unfortunate task of cleaning up two code browns on the same day.Last week, the learners pool closed for 1 hour 45 minutes due to a faecal contamination incident, reopened for swimming lessons, and closed again due to contamination.The double dose of doo-doo comes at a time when details have surfaced about an uptick in code browns at the pools.Council manager aquatic services Stephen Cook said the recent incident involved a “small amount of additional matter” being found which prompted the pool’s closure for a further half hour."It is not clear whether this was from a separate incident or was overlooked due to its small size."Staff acted quickly in both instances and followed standard procedures, he said.That involved closing the pool, cleaning the material and super-chlorinating the water.A pool could remain closed for anywhere from 30 minutes to 12 hours, with the amount of time dependent on the “type of material”.Local Democracy Reporting spoke to a source who claimed the second piece of faecal matter was stepped on by a swimming instructor who then smeared it "slightly" across the bottom of the pool.Cook said there had been no reports of faecal matter being stepped in or transferred to the bottom of the pool.Recent information provided by the council showed the number of code brown incidents at Splash Palace had exceeded 2024 numbers with two months to spare.As of 31 October, there had been 30 incidents resulting in 58.5 hours of unplanned pool closures compared to 28 incidents and 59.4 hours lost in 2024.The leisure pool was the most common location for code browns.LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air